Australia News Roundup - August 25, 2025

CANBERRA, Aug. 25, 2025 - The Albanese government outlined its foreign policy priorities, domestic infrastructure plans and cultural observances today, as major developments unfolded across politics, environment, sport and heritage.

Albanese Reaffirms Two-State Advocacy Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told ABC Radio his government will continue to push for a two-state solution in the Middle East, using Australia’s diplomatic voice in international forums to call for sustained humanitarian aid into Gaza, an immediate ceasefire, the release of hostages and the eventual disarmament of Hamas. He confirmed that next month Australia will formally recognise Palestinian statehood alongside Canada, France and Britain at the 80th UN General Assembly, emphasizing decisions will be made solely on national interest and doing the “right thing”.

Smuggled Ukrainian Artefacts Returned On Monday, Arts Minister Tony Burke presided over the repatriation of two artefacts illicitly exported from Ukraine. The items, dating from the 18th century, were handed over at Parliament House before being flown to Kyiv, marking a milestone in bilateral cultural cooperation and heritage restitution efforts.

Battery Boom to Slash Emissions, Report Finds A Carbon Pulse analysis released today highlights Australia’s unprecedented growth in grid-scale battery installations this year. The surge, driven by the 2025 Renewable Energy Targets, is projected to cut national greenhouse gas emissions by up to 4% by 2030, significantly enhancing grid stability and accelerating the transition away from coal-fired power.

Major Works Tender for Australian Hockey Centre Issued The Western Australian government issued the main works tender for the $163 million Australian Hockey Centre in Bentley. Three construction firms-Georgiou Group, ADCO Constructions and Built-have progressed to the next stage, moving the project closer to becoming the nation’s high-performance hub for Hockey Australia’s Centre of Excellence.

Australian South Sea Islanders National Recognition Day Observed Today marks Australian South Sea Islanders National Recognition Day, commemorating the descendants of Pacific Islanders brought to Australia in the 19th century under indenture. Federal and state events honoured the community’s contributions and called for greater awareness of their unique cultural heritage.