AI & Media Trust: A Findrix study of 23,000 Australian buying prompts found ChatGPT/Google AI cite reddit.com more than any other source, with legal directories also featuring heavily—another reminder that brand-owned sites aren’t winning the AI referral race. AI Safety & Government Scrutiny: OpenAI’s Medicare-related agent breach continues to ripple, with commentary arguing “doom talk” can be PR-driven while regulators push for tighter controls. Online Safety for Minors: Australia’s social media ban for under-16s is being tested in practice, with reports highlighting workarounds and risk displacement; Hong Kong is now weighing a multi-pronged approach that could include biometric age assurance. Espionage & Research Funding: UK MI5 warns universities to cut ties with a China-linked research body (CGTRI) tied to the Ministry of State Security, citing AI, cyber and covert-communications work and warning of possible prosecution. Retail Media & Marketing: Metcash expands its AI partnership with Coveo and Publicis, while 7-Eleven launches a retail media network—both pointing to more data-led targeting in Australian commerce. Sports & Content: Wallabies squad news and a World Rugby “very serious” investigation into farcical scenes against South Africa keep the spotlight on how broadcast moments shape public conversation.