Australia news live: energy rebates will not be extended, Chalmers says; SA Liberals confirm new leader

Jim Chalmers says mid-year budget update will include ‘savings’ and ‘difficult decisions’. Follow today’s news liveGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAlbanese and Ley respond to tragic firefighter deathThe prime minister, Anthony Albanese, has issued a statement after the death of a firefighter who was battling a blaze at Bulahdelah on the NSW mid-north coast.My heart goes out to the loved ones and colleagues of the firefighter who has tragically lost their life in the Bulahdelah bushfire. All Australians are thinking of you in your time of grief.This terrible news is a sombre reminder of the dangers that our emergency services personnel face to keep our homes and communities safe – and the extraordinary courage that their job demands. We honour that bravery, every day.All Australians are with the firefighter’s family, friends and the team who worked beside him. Our emergency services put themselves in harm’s way to keep Australians safe. Today we mourn this terrible loss. Continue reading...