Television
Reports ABC set to axe Q+A after 17 seasons
Following a report from John Buckley at Capital Brief, multiple news outlets have reported that the ABC has cancelled the long-running weekly news panel show Q+A.
The show is currently on what was believed to be a short hiatus following an extended run of episodes to cover the recent Federal election.
Q+A was expected to return in August, but it is not clear whether the show will return to fulfil the episode order for the remainder of 2025.
TV’s highest earners barely show up but still cash in
Some of Australia’s best-paid television personalities are spending more time off-screen than on, and still taking home six-figure salaries.
According to Steve Jackson who writes in The Australian, a lucky few are making more per minute on air than most people earn in an entire month.
And, as ad revenue continues to flatline, both Seven and Nine are preparing for another round of cuts.
Nine CEO slams LAPD incident as “shocking” as formal investigation launched
Nine CEO Matt Stanton has described as “shocking” the moment a rubber bullet, fired from a police weapon, struck 9News U.S. correspondent Lauren Tomasi during a live assignment in downtown Los Angeles.
In a strongly worded statement, Stanton confirmed the broadcaster will offer full cooperation with the Los Angeles Police Department’s newly opened investigation into the incident, which occurred amid escalating protests over immigration enforcement.
“The video footage captured by our team on Sunday showing a projectile fired from a police officer’s weapon was shocking and raised concerns from around the world,” Stanton said.
Companies
Amazon takes aim at Officeworks crowd with business-focused play
Amazon is coming for the office supply aisle.
The tech giant has launched Amazon Business in Australia, pitching bulk buys, fast delivery and corporate-friendly pricing to everyone from sole traders to government departments.
As Tess Bennett reports in the Australian Financial Review, the move puts local players like Officeworks, JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman on notice.
AI
Apple calls out major AI flaws in bombshell study
Apple has thrown a well-aimed spanner into the AI hype machine, publishing research that shows some of the most advanced models fall apart under pressure.
As Shannon Molloy reports on news.com.au, the study found a “complete accuracy collapse” in large reasoning models when faced with anything more complex than basic puzzle tasks.
Apple’s researchers say the gap between what AI promises and what it actually delivers may be wider than the industry wants to admit.
Slyp’s AI loyalty push takes aim at Amazon and everyday rewards
Slyp is stepping into the AI ring with Go Rewards, a new loyalty platform built to help Aussie retailers punch above their weight against giants like Amazon.
As Jared Lynch reports in The Australian, the tool promises smarter, more personalised offers based on what customers have actually bought, not just broad-brush promos.
The platform includes GoPilot Chef, an AI-powered meal planner that whips up recipes tailored to your diet and fitness goals.
THDR’s Neuono taps AI to make custom fashion without fittings
Australian start-up THDR Group is flipping the tailoring game with Neuono, a new AI-driven fashion label that promises made-to-measure clothes, no tape measure, no fitting room, no store visit required.
Using a mix of OpenAI, Google, and its own homegrown tech, Neuono turns a quick phone scan into a full 3D body map, then applies fashion-forward algorithms to design everything from jeans to tuxedos, tailored to fit and taste.
As Mark Whittaker writes in Forbes Australia, the garments are stitched together at partner factories in China, with the AI allowing for an eyewatering 16 quadrillion possible design combos.
Business
Former UBank boss takes top spot at Women in Leadership Awards
Philippa Watson, who recently wrapped her tenure as CEO of UBank, has taken out the top honour at this year’s Financial Review Women in Leadership Awards, presented by Qantas.
As Sally Patten writes in the Australian Financial Review, judges praised her bold decision-making and ability to steer major transformation, calling out her blend of guts and grace.
Watson made headlines last month after being tapped by Nicola Forrest to head up Coaxial, the billionaire philanthropist’s new family office that spans a foundation and VC arm.
Film
From snags to screen deals as Screenworks hits 25
What started as a Byron Bay sausage sizzle back in 2000 has grown into one of regional Australia’s most resilient screen industry players.
Screenworks, born from a backyard BBQ where IMAX pioneer John Weiley invited local filmmakers for a chat, is now marking its 25th year with the Regional to Global conference next week in Lennox Head.
As David Knox reports in TV Tonight, while other regional screen bodies like MetroScreen and QPix have shuttered, Screenworks has not only survived but carved out a stronghold by championing creatives outside the city bubble.