Police are warning Queensland residents to remain vigilant following reports of traveling roof restoration scammers operating across the state. These criminal networks have been noted for targeting elderly and vulnerable residents, often resulting in significant financial losses. The scammers offer various services, including low-cost roof maintenance, cleaning services, or tile replacement. Signs that these scammers are active in an area may include flyers, signage, or door-to-door promotions advertising unusually cheap work. Recent Activity and Scope Authorities recently received a report from Manly West regarding a specific incident. A man, claiming to be from a roofing service, attended a resident’s home and offered to upgrade the roof. The resident declined the offer, and the man subsequently left without approaching neighbors. The male was identified as a passenger in a white Nissan Navara. The driver of the vehicle was not sighted. Investigations into the matter reveal that the vehicle and associated individuals have links to previous scam operations targeting elderly and vulnerable residents in multiple locations across QLD. These locations include Svensson Heights, Strathpine, Capalaba, Caboolture, and Woolloongabba. These earlier scams are associated with causing victims to incur significant financial losses Safeguarding Against Scams Police are encouraging residents to safeguard themselves against these schemes. Key steps include: Verifying business credentials before arranging any work. Being cautious of unsolicited offers. Avoiding opening doors to unknown visitors. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity immediately. Anyone with information regarding the individuals or the white Nissan Navara involved in these incidents should contact Policelink and quote reference QI2502095926, or report anonymously to Crime Stoppers.

Australian national home values recorded a 1.0% increase in November, marking the third consecutive month that values have risen by one per cent or more, according to Cotality’s national Home Value Index. However, the pace of growth is showing signs of moderation, easing slightly from the 1.1% gain recorded in October. The headline growth figure was significantly weighed down by Australia’s two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, which are facing increasing affordability constraints. Meanwhile, mid-sized capitals are dramatically outperforming the larger markets, a trend similar to that seen in late 2023 and 2024. Mid-Sized Cities Surge Ahead Every capital city, apart from Sydney and Melbourne, recorded a value rise of at least 1.0% through November. Perth led the nation with a solid 2.4% surge in dwelling values. Brisbane also showed strong growth, recording a 1.9% rise.   Cotality’s research director, Tim Lawless, highlighted the significant skew towards the mid-sized capitals, noting that the surge in Perth is especially evident. In Perth, listings are holding more than 40% below average while buyer demand remains elevated. The 2.4% monthly rise in Perth added just over $21,000 to the median in November, which equates to roughly $5,000 per week.   In contrast, Sydney recorded a monthly rise of 0.5% and Melbourne was up 0.3%. The lower gain in Sydney is likely reflective of affordability constraints putting a ceiling on growth. Sydney’s monthly growth rate appears to have peaked at 0.9% back in August. Furthermore, Sydney has a smaller supply deficit than the capital city benchmark, with listings tracking only 2.2% below the five-year average, compared to the benchmark of about 16% below average. Affordability and Serviceability Remain Stretched The subtle easing in national growth coincides with several indicators pointing to headwinds for the housing market. Auction clearance rates have trended lower since peaking in mid-September, falling below the decade average by mid-November. Both Sydney and Melbourne saw clearance rates hold in the low 60% range through the second half of November.   A major factor is the record levels of housing unaffordability. Affordability metrics from the September quarter show a record high in the national dwelling value-to-household income ratio, where the median dwelling value is 8.2 times higher than the annual pre-tax household income. The income required to service a mortgage at the median value is near record levels, at 45.0%.   Mr. Lawless warned that these economic factors will likely affect housing sentiment going forward: “With inflation once again above the RBA’s target range and rates potentially on hold for the foreseeable future, it’s likely housing sentiment will suffer,” Mr. Lawless said. “With housing affordability already stretched and worsening, it stands to reason that fewer borrowers will be able to access credit as serviceability barriers become more prominent”.   The flow-through effect of stretched affordability and serviceability is already visible, with housing value growth skewed towards lower price points of the market. Over the past three months, most state capitals have seen values across the lower quartile rising the fastest. The exception is Melbourne, where affordability is slightly less stretched, and the broad middle of the market is experiencing the fastest lift in values.   Regarding future regulatory changes, the impact of the recent policy announcement from APRA—to limit high debt-to-income (DTI) ratio loans to 20% of new lending—is expected to be limited. Mr. Lawless noted that the majority of recent mortgage originations remain significantly below a DTI of six or more. Though the new credit policy is scheduled for implementation in February next year, Mr. Lawless believes it is only “likely to only affect the margins of borrowing activity”.  

  eSafety is urgently raising the alarm over the misuse of smart vehicles, which are emerging as a new tool for domestic violence perpetrators to monitor, track, and intimidate victims. The agency is urging Australians to recognize how modern smart car features can be exploited for technology-facilitated coercive control. This warning comes after eSafety received reports from frontline workers through its dedicated Technology-Facilitated Abuse Support Service, which assists staff in applying safety planning to digital devices. Exploiting Connectivity   eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant highlighted that as more Australians purchase cars connected to the internet and other smart devices, abusers are exploiting these features to spy on and gaslight their partners. Reports received by eSafety’s service detail several alarming scenarios, including abusers: Accessing trip histories to keep tabs on a partner’s movements. Remotely locking doors or changing the heating to intimidate victims. Using kill switches to prevent victims from traveling beyond certain distances. Ms. Inman Grant emphasized that a vehicle, which is often “crucial for escape,” is being used as a mechanism to trap and control in these situations. The source material notes that location tracking is one of the biggest risks to a victim-survivor’s safety when they are planning to leave a violent situation, which can lead to the violence escalating and taking new forms. The technical foundation of this abuse relies on the fact that most smart vehicles have built-in GPS systems and telematics platforms that record real-time location, trip histories, and geofencing alerts. This personal data can be accessed through companion apps on smartphones or web portals, or shared via synced accounts. A Broader Pattern of Technology-Facilitated Control The misuse of smart vehicles forms part of a broader pattern of technology-facilitated coercive control. Frontline services report that this abuse is becoming increasingly complex due to the interconnected nature of popular smart devices—the Internet of Things (IoT)—which collect and store personal data. These devices range from smartwatches and tablets with synced accounts to smart TVs, security cameras, and thermostats.   Minister for Social Services, Tanya Plibersek, called the weaponization of technology by perpetrators “a new frontier that we have to tackle”, noting that technology-facilitated abuse is one of the greatest and most rapidly evolving challenges in tackling domestic and family violence.   Domestic Violence Crisis Service ACT CEO Sue Webeck added that technology is pervasive and its benefits can quickly become a “lethal risk factor” for someone experiencing domestic violence, noting that people are often not used to assessing their safety based on devices like smart bulbs or smart fridges. Commissioner Micaela Cronin stressed that it is vital to center people with lived experience to build understanding of how this abuse is enacted and how it can be prevented.   When a woman seeking help arrives at a shelter, frontline workers often perform a thorough check of their phone, car, smartwatch, and personal belongings to identify and destroy tracking devices and software.   Call for Urgent Industry Action   With estimates suggesting that more than 90 per cent of new cars sold in Australia by 2031 will have embedded connectivity, Ms. Inman Grant declared that there is a need for “urgent action to make them safer”. She likened the required safety improvements to the industry’s need for their “next ‘seatbelt moment’”, stating that these are “solvable design issues” if safeguards are built in from the start.   eSafety is calling on companies to embed safety into smart car devices and accounts, specifically demanding:   Emergency lockouts and safe transfers: Manufacturers must provide a simple, documented way to revoke all access and transfer ownership during separation without requiring contact with the other party. User-visible audit logs: These systems should offer a clear history of account access, location pings, and remote commands that can be exported for use as evidence. Retailer and dealership standards: Dealerships must always reset devices or accounts when cars are sold or change owners, and staff must be trained to do this safely for people experiencing abuse.   eSafety’s latest Online Safety Advisory focuses on smart devices and the Internet of Things to help victim-survivors and frontline workers understand these risks. Practical safety steps for victims, recommended to be taken with the support of a frontline service, include resetting account control on a ‘clean’ device (using private details and strong passphrases), revoking access everywhere (logging out of companion apps and unlinking shared IDs), and requesting that a dealer reset telematics and remove former users.  

  Cricket’s greatest rivalry moves to Brisbane this afternoon for a landmark chapter in Ashes history, as Australia and England face off in the first-ever day-night Test match at the Gabba. Play begins at 2:00pm local time, with the pink ball set to add a new dimension to a series already brimming with drama.   The second Test of the five-match series carries immense significance for both sides. Australia holds a 1-0 advantage following their commanding eight-wicket victory in Perth, where the match concluded in just two days—the shortest Ashes Test by balls bowled since 1888. That result has placed immediate pressure on England to respond in conditions that will test their skill and resilience under floodlights. Historic Occasion at Woolloongabba Today’s fixture marks a departure from tradition. While the Gabba has long been a fortress for Australian cricket, this is the first time an Ashes contest will be played here as a day-night affair. Gates opened at 12:30pm, allowing spectators to soak in the atmosphere before the first ball is delivered at 2:00pm. The match will run through until Monday, December 8, with each day’s play scheduled to conclude in the evening hours.   The day-night format introduces the pink ball, which behaves differently from the traditional red ball, often offering more assistance to bowlers during the twilight period. This tactical variable adds another layer of complexity for both teams’ batting line-ups and bowling attacks. Team News and Selection Decisions Australia faces a crucial decision regarding their captain Pat Cummins, who missed the Perth Test but has been bowling in the nets and will undergo a late fitness assessment. His potential return would significantly strengthen a bowling attack that already dismantled England in the series opener. Usman Khawaja has been officially ruled out due to injury, while Travis Head’s century as an opener in Perth has secured his place at the top of the order.   England has been forced into a change, with Mark Wood unavailable due to injury. Will Jacks is expected to take his place, offering the tourists additional spin options alongside his batting capabilities down the order. The decision to omit Shoaib Bashir in favour of Jacks reflects England’s tactical approach to the pink-ball conditions. Series Context and Stakes   The 2025-26 Ashes series, officially branded as the NRMA Insurance Men’s Ashes Series, forms part of the 2025-2027 ICC World Test Championship. With Australia already holding the urn after retaining it in the previous series, England must win at least two of the remaining four Tests to reclaim cricket’s most prestigious prize. The Gabba has historically been a challenging venue for England, with the hosts drawing confidence from their strong record at the ground. However, Ben Stokes’ side enters the contest with a determination to reset after their Perth disappointment, viewing the day-night format as an opportunity to level the series. Broadcast and Coverage   ABC Sport provides comprehensive coverage across radio and digital platforms, with live ball-by-ball commentary available on ABC local radio and the Listen app. The broadcast team features experienced voices including Corbin Middlemas and Jim Maxwell, complemented by former international players offering expert analysis throughout each day’s play.   As Brisbane prepares for five days of intense Ashes cricket under lights, both teams understand the magnitude of the moment. For Australia, victory would extend their series lead and move them closer to outright Ashes retention. For England, a positive result is essential to keep their hopes of reclaiming the urn alive. The stage is set for a compelling contest that will be remembered as the first day-night Ashes Test at the Gabba.

  Six bold Queensland short films have been selected to share in $300,000 through Screen Queensland’s inaugural Short Film Fund. The funding initiative supports the development of new Queensland stories and is intended to strengthen the state’s reputation as a leading screen production destination. The inaugural Short Film Fund is part of the Crisafulli Government’s Queensland’s Time to Shine: a 10-Year Strategy for Arts and Culture. The government states that it is delivering a fresh start for Queensland’s film sector with the new fund, which is designed to help local filmmakers grow their careers and expand industry opportunities. Promoting Homegrown Talent   Minister for Education and the Arts, The Honorable John-Paul Langbroek, stated that the new fund aims to promote more Queensland stories on the big screen and help local filmmakers reach wider audiences. Minister Langbroek characterized Queensland as the “powerhouse of Australia’s screen industry”. He explained that Screen Queensland’s Short Film Fund supports Queensland-based creatives in developing distinctly local stories that can connect directly with audiences both domestically and internationally. He highlighted that short-form storytelling is one of the fastest-growing areas of the global screen industry, offering a launchpad for emerging filmmakers to build audiences and launch their careers. The government is committed to delivering a thriving creative sector and expanding industry opportunities across the state. Minister Langbroek added that they wish to unearth more budding filmmakers from across Queensland and support them on their journey to becoming the next generation of Australian success stories working behind the scenes. Diverse Projects Receive Support   The six projects selected to receive funding represent an incredible breadth of creativity and innovation coming out of Queensland. The successful projects are: The Stockman: A powerful First Nations drama by proud Butchulla/Kamilaroi filmmaker Rhianna Malezer. Bulb: A gripping drama by Felix Lovell. Chook: A horror comedy from Sasha Aubort. Clay: A hybrid animation comedy by Joe Bauer and Rita Artmann. Return to Work: A deeply personal drama from Emily Avila. The Novelty: A beautifully crafted drama by Charlotte Mungomery.     Incubator for Creative Practice   Screen Queensland CEO Jacqui Feeney confirmed that the Short Film Fund demonstrates the agency’s strategic focus on creating meaningful ‘calling-card’ opportunities for the state’s screen storytellers. Ms. Feeney noted that the fund serves as an “important incubator for local talent,” allowing the six recipient filmmakers to refine their craft and grow their creative practice. A key requirement of the fund mandated that applicants must have a pathway to audiences through film festivals, markets, and distribution, thereby ensuring a market-relevant credit was obtained. Applications for the next round of Screen Queensland’s Short Film Fund are scheduled to open in 2026. Source: statements.qld.gov.au

  Brisbane City Council is inviting readers of all ages and interests to join the free Brisbane Libraries Summer Reading Program. The annual initiative aims to encourage the public to experience the joy of reading over the summer by combining reading activities with library engagement. The program officially runs from Monday 1 December 2025 to Saturday 31 January 2026. The challenge will be hosted by Council’s 33 libraries, the Mobile Library, and the Pop-Up Library. Registrations for the Summer Reading program are now open. Earning Points and Prizes   Getting involved in the challenge requires participants to register online and then visit their local library to pick up a Summer Reading challenge booklet and card.   Points are accumulated by: Completing weekly challenges. Tracking reading on the challenge card. Borrowing items. Attending library events.   Every point earned is worth one entry into the weekly prize draw. Participants are encouraged to visit the library each week to enter the draw for a chance to win one of the seven $50 book vouchers available weekly. Once participants complete the requirements in their Summer Reading challenge booklet, they can collect a commemorative Summer Reading bookmark. Library Programs and Lifelong Learning   Beyond reading, Council libraries host a variety of free events for all ages, giving the community opportunities to learn, socialise, and play. Attending any library event for kids, teens, or adults grants an extra point in the Summer Reading challenge. Events for adults celebrate lifelong learning and include writing workshops, technology classes, and English conversation sessions. A core offering is the free Tech Connect computer training program for adults, delivered by library staff in small, friendly groups. Tech Connect offers hands-on training on using devices like smartphones and tablets, navigating the internet, and using email. Individuals can also book a one-on-one tech session to troubleshoot technical problems with their devices and learn how to use their apps. For younger participants, literacy and craft activities are designed to support children’s learning and development. The First 5 Forever program, an initiative of the Queensland Government in partnership with Council, offers free sessions for children and their parents or carers. These programs feature singing, clapping, and dancing along to action rhymes to help develop pre-literacy, communication, and social skills. Sessions are tailored for babies aged 0–1 years, toddlers aged 1–2 years, and older children aged 3–5 years. Storytime sessions with the Pop-up Library are also available in the park. For more information about the program, the public can visit their local library or phone Council on 07 3403 8888.

Brisbane City Council is inviting readers of all ages and interests to join the free Brisbane Libraries Summer Reading Program. The annual initiative aims to encourage the public to experience the joy of reading over the summer by combining reading activities with library engagement. The program officially runs from Monday 1 December 2025 to Saturday 31 January 2026. The challenge will be hosted by Council’s 33 libraries, the Mobile Library, and the Pop-Up Library. Registrations for the Summer Reading program are now open. Earning Points and Prizes   Getting involved in the challenge requires participants to register online and then visit their local library to pick up a Summer Reading challenge booklet and card. Points are accumulated by: Completing weekly challenges. Tracking reading on the challenge card. Borrowing items. Attending library events. Every point earned is worth one entry into the weekly prize draw. Participants are encouraged to visit the library each week to enter the draw for a chance to win one of the seven $50 book vouchers available weekly. Once participants complete the requirements in their Summer Reading challenge booklet, they can collect a commemorative Summer Reading bookmark. Library Programs and Lifelong Learning   Beyond reading, Council libraries host a variety of free events for all ages, giving the community opportunities to learn, socialise, and play. Attending any library event for kids, teens, or adults grants an extra point in the Summer Reading challenge. Events for adults celebrate lifelong learning and include writing workshops, technology classes, and English conversation sessions. A core offering is the free Tech Connect computer training program for adults, delivered by library staff in small, friendly groups. Tech Connect offers hands-on training on using devices like smartphones and tablets, navigating the internet, and using email. Individuals can also book a one-on-one tech session to troubleshoot technical problems with their devices and learn how to use their apps. For younger participants, literacy and craft activities are designed to support children’s learning and development. The First 5 Forever program, an initiative of the Queensland Government in partnership with Council, offers free sessions for children and their parents or carers. These programs feature singing, clapping, and dancing along to action rhymes to help develop pre-literacy, communication, and social skills. Sessions are tailored for babies aged 0–1 years, toddlers aged 1–2 years, and older children aged 3–5 years. Storytime sessions with the Pop-up Library are also available in the park. For more information about the program, the public can visit their local library or phone Council on 07 3403 8888.  

The Transport Workers Union (TWU) has joined forces with Australia’s two largest on-demand delivery platforms, Uber Eats and DoorDash, in a historic move to establish minimum standards for workers in the on-demand economy. The three parties have made a joint submission to the Fair Work Commission (FWC) requesting the establishment of a set of minimum standards, including safety net pay rates, for delivery drivers and riders. The agreement requires approval from the Fair Work Commission. If approved, the proposed Minimum Standards Order (MSO) would introduce legally enforceable new protections and baseline standards that the TWU has championed for many years. Key Standards Agreed Upon   The joint proposal includes several crucial standards designed to strengthen protections and provide certainty for thousands of platform workers. The key agreements include: Minimum safety net pay rates for all classes of transport types. Dispute resolution processes. Representation rights. A voice for platform workers, facilitated through engagement and feedback mechanisms. Accident insurance for injured workers. This landmark achievement is described as the latest milestone in an ongoing collaboration between the TWU and the digital labour platforms, aiming to improve the quality, safety, and security of platform work.   A “Life-Changing” Increase   TWU National Secretary Michael Kaine stated that gig workers have campaigned for years for a better industry. Kaine emphasized the significance of the proposal, noting that for the first time in the world, there could soon be a minimum floor that represents a “life-changing increase to their pay”. He called the joint submission, following constructive discussions, a “significant step towards a fairer gig economy”. The parties are looking forward to the FWC considering these new standards and working towards a strong foundation for fairness in the gig economy. Flexibility and Modern Laws   Both Uber Eats and DoorDash executives highlighted the importance of balancing improved working conditions with the flexibility inherent in platform work. Simon Rossi, VP DoorDash APAC, stated that delivery workers are essential to keeping Australia moving, supporting busy households and small businesses. He noted that the proposal demonstrates that they “can work together to lift standards and still enable the flexibility people rely on, under the Government’s new laws”. Rossi added that since the on-demand economy is now a vital part of how Australians live, work, and earn, “it’s important that working standards evolve too”. Ed Kitchen, Managing Director for Uber Eats Australia and New Zealand, maintained that Uber Eats has long supported “sensible and modern reforms” that strengthen protections while maintaining flexibility. Kitchen emphasized that flexibility is one of the key reasons people choose to gig work after nearly a decade of the platform operating in Australia. Kitchen concluded that the submission is a “meaningful step towards building modern laws for modern forms of work, giving delivery people what they value the most – the protection of minimum pay rates, security and flexibility”. This current effort builds on a landmark Statement of Principles signed between Uber Eats (across both rideshare and food delivery) and the TWU in 2022.  

The competition structure and fixtures for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup have been officially announced, detailing a massive 31-day international showcase across three countries and nine host cities set for October and November next year. Billed as the most competitive, ambitious, and anticipated Rugby League World Cup, the event will feature 14 nations, 26 teams, and a total of 53 matches across the Men’s, Women’s, and Wheelchair tournaments In a significant win for Queensland, Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium has secured the hosting rights for both the Men’s and Women’s Grand Finals, scheduled for Sunday, November 15. The Wheelchair Final will take place earlier, on Friday, November 13, at Wollongong’s WIN Entertainment Centre. Major Economic Benefits for Queensland Queensland secured three of the eight host city destinations—Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Townsville—which Premier David Crisafulli called a “tremendous win for the State”. The decision is expected to attract approximately 110,000 people from interstate and overseas, injecting more than $18 million into the Queensland economy. This coup was made possible through the state’s new Mega and Strategic Events Fund, committed under the Destination 2045 tourism plan.   Minister for Sport and Racing Tim Mander lauded the selection of Suncorp Stadium, calling it the “best rugby league stadium in the world” and the perfect stage for the Grand Final. Gold Coast and Townsville will stage events throughout the tournament, including a blockbuster Men’s match featuring the Australian team at Queensland Country Bank Stadium in Townsville.   Tournament Structure and Blockbuster Openers   The tournament runs from Thursday, October 15, 2026, through Sunday, November 15, 2026. Men’s Tournament (10 Teams): The Men’s tournament will kick off on Thursday, October 15, at Allianz Stadium with a heavyweight clash between the top two world-ranked teams: the Kangaroos and the Kiwis. The pools are structured with one pool of four and two pools of three nations: Group A: Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Cook Islands. Group B: England, Samoa, Lebanon. Group C: Tonga, PNG, France. Group A teams will play three matches against each other, while teams in Group B and C will play three matches against teams in the adjacent group. The top two teams from Group A will progress to the Semi-Finals, alongside the top two teams from a combined table of Group B and C. Other key fixtures include England versus Tonga at Perth’s HBF Park on Saturday, October 17, and a match between Pacific giants Tonga and Samoa at CommBank Stadium on Sunday, November 1. Brisbane will also host a blockbuster fixture between Australia and Fiji’s men’s teams at Suncorp Stadium. Men’s matches will be played across Sydney, Port Moresby, Perth, Newcastle, Christchurch, Brisbane, Wollongong, Gold Coast, and Townsville. Women’s Tournament (8 Teams): The eight-team Women’s tournament begins on Friday, October 16, with the all-conquering Australian Jillaroos facing Samoa at CommBank Stadium. Group A: Australia, England, Samoa, Wales. Group B: New Zealand, PNG, France, Fiji. Each team plays three matches within their group, with the top two teams from each Group advancing to the Semi-Finals. A triple-header at Gold Coast’s CBUS Super Stadium will feature Samoa vs France (Women’s) and New Zealand vs Papua New Guinea (Women’s), alongside a Men’s fixture. Women’s Group matches will be held in Sydney, Port Moresby, Perth, Newcastle, Christchurch, Wollongong, and Gold Coast. Wheelchair Tournament (8 Teams): The eight-team Wheelchair tournament will be played in its entirety at Wollongong’s WIN Entertainment Centre. Group A: England, Ireland, Wales, USA. Group B: France, Australia, Scotland, New Zealand. The opening match coincides with a Men’s and Women’s double-header at WIN Stadium on October 30.   Officials Heralding a New Era   ARLC Chairman Peter V’landys AM stated that representing one’s country in the World Cup is the “ultimate honour,” predicting this will be the “best and most successful Rugby League World Cup on record”. International Rugby League (IRL) Chairman Troy Grant emphasized the soaring popularity of the sport, noting that the international game is “riding a wave of momentum into what will be the biggest global showcase the game has seen”. Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium and Sydney’s Allianz Stadium will host double-header Semi-Finals across the Men’s and Women’s tournaments. Tickets are on sale today via Ticketmaster. Adult tickets for Group stage and Semi-Final matches start from $19 (AUD), while Finals tickets at Suncorp Stadium start from $39 (AUD) for adults. All matches will be broadcast live and exclusive in Australia on Seven and 7Plus.

  A new report from the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) has laid bare the inadequacy of Australia’s mental health care system, revealing that public hospital emergency departments (EDs) remain the “only option” for many people needing acute care. The crisis has deepened, with data showing that 10 per cent of mental health patients waited more than 23 hours for an inpatient bed in 2023–24. The ACEM report, Still Waiting, analyzed data from 2016 to 2024 and found that despite years of calls for reform, ED time-based performance has declined. ACEM President Dr. Stephen Gourley emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The data is clear. The solutions are known. The time for reform is now,”. Rising Acuity and Declining Capacity   Mental health-related presentations to EDs increased by 11 per cent, rising from approximately 277,000 in 2016-17 to over 310,000 in 2023-24. Worse than the rising volume is the increasing complexity and urgency of cases. Key findings highlighting the severity of presentations include: Urgent Care Delays: Nearly 75 per cent of mental health patients were triaged as needing to be seen within 30 minutes (Australasian Triage Scale 1–3) in 2023-24, compared to more than 63 per cent in 2016-17. Despite this urgent need, the proportion of mental health presentations seen on time nationally decreased from 68 per cent to just 60 per cent over the same period. Mode of Arrival: In 2023-24, 53.4 per cent of mental health-related presentations arrived by ambulance, double the proportion for non-mental health patients. The increase in ambulance arrivals suggests a greater number of people in the community have higher acuity mental health conditions requiring treatment. State Hotspots: Wait times for admission are particularly high in South Australia, Tasmania, and Western Australia. These jurisdictions also consistently reported lower proportions of mental health-related presentations seen on time. South Australia (35 hours 46 minutes) and Tasmania (34 hours 7 minutes) reported the longest 90th percentile ED length of stay for admitted mental health presentations in 2023-24. The core issue driving the excessive delays is a system failing to keep pace with demand. While the number of mental health-related presentations requiring admission increased by 3.2 per cent between 2016-17 and 2023-24, the number of public specialist mental health hospital beds decreased by 1.3 per cent between 2016-17 and 2022-23.   Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Groups   The data also reveals that the strain is felt most heavily by specific demographics: First Nations Peoples: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples accounted for 14 per cent of mental health-related presentations in 2023-24, a significant increase of 3.7 per cent since 2016-17. The College noted that cultural safety must be embedded in EDs, as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are more likely to be impacted by the social determinants of health and are more likely to leave the ED before care is completed. Older Australians: Presentations among people aged 65 and over rose by 3.6 per cent. Long ED waits for older patients can contribute to delirium and worsen dementia symptoms. ACEM’s analysis also highlights that system failures extend “beyond hospital bed access block,” as excessive waiting times are affecting not only admitted patients but also those discharged without admission. The longest 90th percentile ED length of stay for non-admitted mental health patients exceeded the national average in Western Australia, Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia. Calls for Immediate Whole-of-System Reform Dr. Gourley stressed that EDs are not designed or resourced for long-term recovery support; they are merely the “default entry point for crisis care”. He urged policymakers to recognize that “people are not a burden” but rather individuals seeking help in vulnerable moments, noting that the problem is a health system that has failed to meet community need. The Australian Medical Association President, Dr. Danielle McMullen, supported the ACEM findings, noting that the report underscores the “devastating impact of a lack of investment” in community services and general practice, which could otherwise keep people out of busy EDs.   ACEM outlined several critical steps needed for decisive action, including: Increased Inpatient Capacity: Increasing the number of inpatient beds to reduce access block and unnecessary delays to admission. Expanding Community Services: Committing to funding the expansion of community-based mental health services and affordable psychology services to match community needs. Crisis Alternatives: Investing in ED alternatives, such as Safe Haven Cafés, which provide more therapeutic spaces for people experiencing a mental health crisis. Scaling Up Models: Continuing to invest in the Police, Ambulance and Clinician Early Response (PACER) model, which has demonstrated an ability to reduce unnecessary ED transfers and provide community intervention. Cultural Safety: Resourcing EDs with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Liaison Officers to provide culturally safe care. Dr. Gourley concluded that without decisive action, Australia risks perpetuating a reactive model that fails its most vulnerable populations.