News In Brief

Welcome to our ‘News In Brief’ column in which we digest all the news releases for you in no more than five paragraphs.
Below are snippets of all the media releases we received from Feb 9 till the end of the week.
This article updates throughout the week.

Pay Packet Pressure

Perth, Feb 9: Almost half of working Australians are seeking extra income in 2026, according to new research by Finder.
A survey of 1,003 respondents (including 646 employed people) found 48% feel financially pressured to look for additional work this year. About one in four (26%) say they’re pushed to find a higher-paying role, while 22% report needing a second job to keep up with rising living costs.
Sarah Megginson, personal finance expert at Finder, said many Australians are facing financial hardship.
“We are seeing a big shift where standard salaries no longer stretch to cover the essentials
“A single pay cheque often isn’t enough to cover the basics, let alone get ahead. Many are now forced to hunt for extra income just to make ends meet.
“This isn’t just a story of people wanting to earn more money, it’s about survival as everyday costs continue to rise faster than wages.”
Finder also found women are more likely to feel pressured to seek additional work (54%) than men (42%), with Megginson describing the trend as a sign financial stress is becoming widespread.
“When almost half of the working population are looking for a second job or a new role, it’s a clear indicator of how deep the pressure goes.
“Australians are trying their best just to stay afloat,” Megginson said.

Australia Post Boosts SA Deliveries

Perth, Feb 9: Australia Post will invest in four new purpose-built delivery facilities in regional South Australia—Murray Bridge, Kadina, Port Pirie and Tanunda—to lift parcel capacity and speed up deliveries in fast-growing centres.
Online shopping in South Australia is up 4.9% year-on-year, including a 9% rise during the November–December peak period, with each new site expected to process around 2,000 to 3,700 parcels a day.
As part of Australia Post’s emissions reduction efforts, all four facilities will include rooftop solar to support local energy generation and EV chargers for its electric vehicle fleet.
Australia Post Executive General Manager Network Operations, Shane Plant said the investment demonstrates Australia Post’s long-term commitment to supporting regional communities and their growing needs.
“With 80% of South Australian households now shopping online, parcel volumes in regional areas continue to grow. These modern facilities are built to handle that growth, setting us up to support our customers into the future.
“We’ve focused on designing sites that improve safety, increase capacity and streamline transport flow, creating more efficient workplaces for our teams so they can get on the road safely and deliver for our customers now and into the future,” said Mr Plant.
Construction is underway at all four sites, with openings expected in June (Murray Bridge), July (Kadina and Port Pirie) and August 2026 (Tanunda).
The regional upgrade forms part of Australia Post’s broader network expansion in the state, following its $500 million Parcel Super Hub announcement in Adelaide, due to open in 2028.

UniSuper Rehires Himpoo

Perth, Feb 9: UniSuper has welcomed back Mark Himpoo as Senior Portfolio Manager, Equities, rejoining its Investments team.
Himpoo previously helped drive the fund’s internalisation strategy, playing a key role in strengthening UniSuper’s in-house investment capabilities between 2012 and 2021. Since leaving, he has worked with superannuation funds on investment strategy design and implementation, including tailored investment solutions.
UniSuper’s Head of Equities, Penny Heard said: “We are thrilled to have Mark return to UniSuper bringing his deep experience and trusted perspective back to the Fund. His return reflects both his strong connection to UniSuper and the value he adds to our investment approach. Mark’s return further enhances the depth of expertise within the Investments team, we look forward to his continued contribution as we deliver for our members.”

NSWALC Elects Leaders

Perth, Feb 9: The New South Wales Aboriginal Land Council (NSWALC) has confirmed its leadership for 2026, re-electing Dr Raymond Kelly (Sydney/Newcastle Region) as Chairperson and electing Cr Leeanne Hampton (Wiradjuri Region) as Deputy Chairperson at its first Council meeting of the year. Both positions were uncontested.
Cr Hampton steps into the deputy role after outgoing Deputy Chairperson Cr Ross Hampton chose not to stand for re-election. He will continue as Councillor for the Western Region, a position he has held since 2019.
“The Aboriginal Land Rights Network is at a pivotal moment in time. In recent years, we have taken deliberate, strategic steps to strengthen our organisation and the support we provide to Local Aboriginal Land Councils across New South Wales,” said Chairperson Kelly.
“Cr Hampton played a critical role in progressing our strategic priorities, and we thank him for his leadership and dedication to ensuring we have the capacity and resources to better support our LALCs moving forward.”
“We are proud of the work we are undertaking across the Network and what it is doing to uphold our vision for Aboriginal Land Rights in this State – land acquisition and activation, building on the strengths of our communities, protecting and promoting our Culture and Heritage, and securing our futures.” “With our leadership, we have an opportunity to strengthen our work and the support we provide to all our Local Aboriginal Land Councils (LALCs).” “We are bringing a human rights approach back to Land Rights and are committed to working with all levels of Government and our communities to have better outcome-based programs and services.” “There is still important work to be done in returning land to Aboriginal communities across NSW. We are deeply committed to working with all levels of government and our communities to deliver better outcomes. I look forward to working alongside Cr Hampton and all NSWALC Councillors to advocate for a system that operates efficiently and responds to our claims with urgency.”

Niutao Harbour Opens

Perth, Feb 9: Consulting engineering company Haskoning has completed Tuvalu’s third and final outer-island harbour under the Outer Island Maritime Investment Project, with the opening of the new Niutao harbour (9 February 2026). The climate-resilient facility is designed to improve safe access, reliability and long-term resilience for one of Tuvalu’s most remote and climate-exposed communities.
The project is supported by the Asian Development Bank, the Government of Tuvalu and development partners, with the Australian Government (through the Australian Infrastructure Financing Facility for the Pacific) co-financing the Niutao and Nui Island Boat Harbours. Works at Niutao include an excavated sea access channel and turning basin, a load-out wharf and approach jetty anchored into hardpan, passenger and cargo facilities, all-tide boat ramps, plus solar lighting, guard rails and accessibility upgrades—aimed at reducing risks during transfers and improving transport reliability for people and supplies.
The delivery also focused on community consultation and long-term outcomes, including engagement with island leaders, regular meetings during construction, and training for safe operations, maintenance, and health and safety preparedness.
“For communities like Niutao, access isn’t just about infrastructure, it’s about safety, opportunity and connection,” said David Perbey, Business Development Director Australia, New Zealand and Pacific at Haskoning. “By working closely with the island leaders and residents, we were able to design a harbour that responds to the realities of daily life on a remote outer island. This harbour will not only make sea travel safer and more reliable but will strengthen everyday life – improving access to health, education and economic activity, whilst creating resilience in the face of a changing climate.”
“Improving maritime connectivity in Tuvalu’s outer islands goes beyond building infrastructure – it’s about enhancing access to essential services, reducing isolation and supporting long-term resilience,” said Mr. Masayuki Tachiiri, Deputy Director General, Pacific Department at Asian Development Bank. “The new Niutao harbour will strengthen the island’s capacity to withstand the increasing impacts of climate change and unlocking opportunities for inclusive growth.”
“Australia is committed to delivering critical infrastructure in the Pacific and to support the Government of Tuvalu’s priorities on security, climate resilience, and sustainable development,” said David Charlton, Australian High Commissioner. “These harbours have strengthened connections, built resilience, and laid the foundation for a safer, more prosperous future for the communities of Niutao and Nui islands, and the whole of Tuvalu.”

Piastri Burger Returns

Perth, Feb 9: Grill’d has launched an all-new Oscar Piastri Chicken Burger nationwide from 10 February, ahead of the Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, alongside confirmation of an extended partnership with the Melbourne-born Formula 1 driver. The new burger follows last year’s Oscar Piastri Burger, which the brand says quickly became a fan favourite.
Founder Simon Crowe said the renewed partnership continues the momentum from 2025 and adds a new chicken option to the line-up. “We’re incredibly proud to be extending our partnership with Oscar for another year. He represents everything we believe in, precision, commitment and performing at the highest level, Oscar’s an Aussie hero and we’re stoked to be entering the next lap of this collaboration together.”
“After the incredible response to the first Oscar burger, we wanted to go even bigger this year, adding a new chicken option. It’s high-protein, full of flavour and built for performance, without compromising on taste. We can’t wait for customers to try it – it may even be our best burger yet.”
Oscar Piastri said the new burger is a fun way to mark the season’s start.
“I loved seeing how fans got around the first burger, so it’s been really fun teaming up with Grill’d again to create something new. “I’ve genuinely always loved Grill’d burgers, they’ve been a go-to for me, so getting to work together on this one has been pretty special. This year is a fresh take, it’s packed with flavour, and I can’t wait for everyone to try it ahead of the GP.”
The Oscar Piastri Chicken Burger features an RSPCA Approved chicken breast on a charcoal bun with bacon, aged cheddar, carrot, cos lettuce, avo, Spanish onion, OP chipotle mayo and native Davidson plum barbecue sauce, and is priced at $18.90. Grill’d is also offering an Oscar Piastri Pack with snack chips, Lipton Peach Iced Tea and an OP chipotle mayo dip.
Meanwhile, Grill’d confirmed the Oscar Piastri Wagyu Burger will remain a permanent menu item, and the brand is also rolling out a limited-time Coles release: the Grill’d Oscar Piastri Wagyu Burgers 2-pack (330g) from Wednesday, 11 February, priced at $12 and including an OP chipotle mayo sachet.

Gut Compound Breakthrough

Singapore, Feb 11: Scientists at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) Singapore have developed a new orally taken, gut-based compound that reduces how much dietary fat is absorbed in the intestines, positioning it as a different approach from many weight-loss drugs that primarily suppress appetite or alter glucose regulation.
The research is being advanced with longevity biotech firm Aria Bioscience Pte Ltd to support further development and translation into consumer healthcare products and future therapeutic applications.
With obesity affecting more than one billion people globally, the team says the compound could help people manage weight while consuming modern diets high in fat and sugar. A medical-grade nutraceutical supplement based on the technology is targeted to launch later this year, with clinical trials upcoming. The product has also been tested by TÜV SÜD and found to be free of microbes and heavy metals.

Men’s Confidence Drops

Sydney, Feb 12: New research from men’s lifestyle publication Man of Many suggests Australian marketers may be misreading male sentiment, with the outlet’s inaugural Male Confidence Index revealing a sharp generational divide in confidence levels and a notable dip among men in their peak earning years.
Developed with research agency Fifth Quadrant, the national benchmark tracks confidence across five life domains including finances and career, health and wellbeing, relationships and belonging, masculine identity and societal role, and self-perception and life direction. The Index reports Gen Z men as the most confident overall at 66/100, followed by Millennials at 64/100, with confidence falling to its lowest point among Gen X men at 60/100 before lifting slightly among Boomers at 61/100.
The research points to a “midlife opportunity” for brands, noting that Gen X men report weaker confidence across emotional expression, self-belief and social connection, despite maintaining relatively strong purpose and financial stability. Only 38% of Gen X men say they are comfortable discussing men’s issues compared to 57% of Gen Z, while the study also links emotionally open fatherhood to higher adult confidence, with 61% of Gen Z men reporting emotionally open fathers versus 30% of Gen X.
“Confidence shapes how men show up as partners, fathers, colleagues and friends – yet we’ve never had a national measure of it, this index fills that gap,” says Frank Arthur, Co-Founder of Man of Many. “It’s about understanding what they’re actually experiencing, where they’re strong and where they need support to show up as better fathers, partners and colleagues.”
“The brands that succeed with men over the next decade will be the ones that move beyond stereotypes and meet men where they are with honesty, nuance and an understanding that confidence isn’t about having all the answers – it’s about feeling supported enough to figure them out.”
The survey also included responses from more than 500 women and found a perception gap in how men’s confidence is viewed, with women more likely to value empathy and vulnerability in masculinity, while men more strongly prioritise strength. The report also flags social media’s outsized influence on younger men, with 53% of heavy users saying creators shape their views, even as 78% of Gen Z respondents believe some male influencers promote unrealistic expectations of masculinity.
Man of Many said the Male Confidence Index will be released annually to track changes over time and inform brands, policymakers and community conversations.

ACCC Seeks Stamp Feedback

Perth, Feb 13: The ACCC is inviting feedback from businesses and consumers on Australia Post’s draft proposal to lift stamp prices for ordinary small and large letters by 8.8% from mid-2026. Under the proposal, the basic small letter rate would rise from $1.70 to $1.85, a large letter up to 125g from $3.40 to $3.70, and a large letter between 125g and 250g from $5.10 to $5.55.
Australia Post also plans to increase prices for several other reserved letter services from mid-2026, including priority labels and business products such as PreSort and Print Post, with full details listed in its draft price notification.
Concession stamps (60 cents) and seasonal greeting card stamps (65 cents) are not proposed to increase. Concession card holders can also now buy up to 75 concession stamps per year, up from 50, following an ACCC recommendation.
“We welcome the views of consumers, businesses and other stakeholders on Australia Post’s proposed increases to the price of stamps,” ACCC Commissioner Anna Brakey said.
“The feedback we receive will help inform our consideration of Australia Post’s proposal, with a preliminary view to be released in the coming months.”
The ACCC will assess the notification under the Competition and Consumer Act and advise whether it objects, but it does not approve price rises—only the Minister for Communications can reject a proposed increase. Consultation is open until 13 March 2026, with submissions accepted via postalservices@accc.gov.au.

Valentine’s Parcel Surge

Perth, Feb 13: Australia Post expects to deliver more than 20 million parcels across the country in the lead-up to Valentine’s Day, a 6.7% year-on-year increase, as shoppers increasingly turn to online gifting. The postal network is preparing for a rush of Valentine’s staples including flowers, wine, jewellery and apparel, with deliveries timed to arrive by 14 February.
“Valentine’s Day is always a special time of the year at Australia Post, and our teams work hard to make sure every heartfelt gift arrives exactly when it’s meant to. We work closely with our business customers to understand their forecasts and identify the best ways we can support them, ensuring their shoppers enjoy a smooth, reliable delivery experience right to their doorstep.
“And for anyone trying to keep their Valentine’s surprise under wraps, we always suggest sending gifts to a nearby Parcel Locker, it’s a simple way to keep the magic intact,” said Ms O’Reilly.
StarTrack Courier teams are also preparing for an estimated 4,000 same-day Valentine’s Day deliveries nationwide this Saturday for customers such as Mr. Roses.
“The month of February generates the equivalent of two full months of revenue for us. The challenge is that this entire extra month’s worth of orders must be delivered on a single day.
“Without the capacity, professionalism and trust in the Australia Post and StarTrack team, we would not have the confidence to accept and fulfil our orders on this special day. They help us deliver love in every major city in Australia,” said Stevens.

TEG’s Mega Weekend

Perth, Feb 13: Ticketek Entertainment Group (TEG) says it will deliver one of its biggest and most varied weekends of live entertainment across Australia and New Zealand, with major events running in Brisbane, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Sydney, Hobart and New Zealand.
The weekend slate includes The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (Brisbane), Laneway Festival (Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth), All Elite Wrestling (Sydney, Brisbane), Hilltop Hoods (Hobart), Michael Learns Rock (Melbourne), Akaash Singh (Sydney), The Formula 1 Exhibition (Melbourne), and Maren Morris (New Zealand). TEG expects more than 200,000 fans to attend its promoted events across the weekend, spanning cultural showcases, touring productions, comedy, sport and exhibitions.
“This weekend is a powerful example of what the TEG platform enables. We’re delivering the iconic Laneway Festival alongside global-scale productions, supporting leading Australian artists, hosting international sporting entertainment, and driving visitation into cities across the region – all at the same time.”

Design Hiring Surges

Perth, Feb 13: New research from collaborative design platform Figma suggests AI is boosting demand for design talent rather than replacing it, with 82% of business leaders saying their need for designers has increased or remained steady over the past year. Figma’s Design Hiring and State of the Designer reports surveyed hiring managers and designers globally, finding companies increasingly want designers who can integrate AI into day-to-day workflows and design AI-enabled products.
Among hiring managers, 73% reported a growing need for AI-proficient candidates, while 79% said demand is rising for designers capable of designing AI products. The research also points to a shift toward senior roles, with 56% of hiring managers citing increased demand for senior design hires, compared with 25% hiring for more junior positions. Despite the rise of AI tools, 58% still ranked visual polish as the most important essential skill, underscoring the value placed on human judgement and craft
On the designer side, the survey found 91% believe new AI tools are improving their designs, while 89% reported faster, more efficient work and 80% said AI has improved collaboration. Designers who use AI tools were also 25% more likely to report being satisfied at work. The reports additionally highlight creative freedom as a key driver of satisfaction, with 87% of designers saying decision-making power boosts performance and outcomes, and 91% emphasising the importance of clear goals and structure.
“AI is moving the goalposts, but it isn’t moving the foundation of great design,” said Andrew Hogan, Head of Insights at Figma. “While the market will ebb and flow, the need for designers who can solve complex problems and advocate for the user remains constant. The most successful designers will be those who embrace these new tools to accelerate their work while doubling down on the human craft that truly differentiates a brand.”