Good morning, Australia! Today is October 18 and here is your news briefing!
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Today's reading time is 7 minutes. - Miko Santos
Here’s what else you need to know to get going and get on with your day.
1️⃣ Australia, US Sign Major Critical Minerals Agreement
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and President Donald Trump signed an $8.5 billion critical minerals framework during White House meetings, with investment expected within six months. The deal positions Australia as an alternative supplier to China for rare earth elements essential to technology manufacturing and defense industries.
2️⃣ Tariff Negotiations Stall Despite Diplomatic Progress
Despite raising the issue directly with Trump, Albanese failed to secure relief from 10% tariffs on Australian steel and aluminum affecting 200,000 workers. Trade Minister Don Farrell acknowledged negotiations will continue but cautioned that tariff resolution typically requires extended diplomatic engagement, contrasting with the UK’s successful 50% reduction.
3️⃣ Ambassador Rudd Survives Political Pressure After Trump Meeting
Opposition Leader Susan Lee and coalition members called for Kevin Rudd’s removal as US ambassador following past criticism of Trump, but Albanese strongly defended Rudd’s performance. Trump reportedly told Rudd “all is forgiven” during Oval Office discussions, though the opposition maintains his position remains untenable.
4️⃣ Opposition Targets Government’s Energy Policy as Election Issue
Lee criticized Labor’s energy grid as “part-time” and “broken,” arguing affordable baseload power is essential for Australian manufacturing competitiveness. Shadow Energy Minister Dan Tehan is leading at least three policy meetings to develop an alternative energy framework balancing emissions reduction with economic reliability.
5️⃣ Carriers Block Older Samsung Devices Over Triple Zero Safety Concerns
Telstra and Optus identified Samsung phones at least seven years old that cannot connect to Vodafone networks for emergency calls when primary networks fail. Affected models including Galaxy S6, S7, and Note 5 face mandatory blocking within 28-35 days under government safety regulations unless software updates or replacements are completed.
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