Vast swaths of southeastern Australia are sweltering in a heat wave that’s pushed temperatures to close to 50 degrees Celsius (122 degrees Fahrenheit) and forced some residents to protect their properties as wildfires race through parts of rural Victoria.

SYDNEY, Jan 27 (Reuters) - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will flag Australia's desire for deeper security and energy ties when he addresses East Timor's parliament on Wednesday, in his first visit to the northern neighbour as leader.

The inflation reading comes after Reserve Bank of Australia Deputy Governor Andrew Hauser said in an interview that inflation at current levels is "too high."

Parts of Australia could see record high temperatures in coming days as the second major heatwave in a month sweeps across three states, elevating wildfire risks and boosting electricity demand.

Officials said the father and son accused of killing 15 people at a Jewish festival in Sydney last month would have been barred from gun ownership under the new laws.

SYDNEY, Jan 26 (Reuters) - Thousands marked Australia's national day on Monday by attending "Invasion Day" rallies in support of Indigenous Australians and calling for unity, while separate anti-immigration protests also drew crowds.

Travelers and temporary workers in the country, who may have arrived looking pallid, are showing off their glow-ups on social media.

Discover why wildlife crime is surging in Australia, which species are at risk, and how law reforms aim to turn the tide.

SYDNEY, Jan 28 (Reuters) - Australia was committed to returning a key northern port leased for 99 years to a Chinese company to Australian ownership, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Wednesday after Beijing's envoy to Canberra warned of trade reprisals.

Lady Gaga, the albino carpet python from Australia’s Territory Wildlife Park, is retiring after 17 years as an educational ambassador. She will remain at the park under careful.