Sydney Woman Charged With Joining Islamic State Refused Bail

A Sydney woman charged with joining the Islamic State will remain in custody. Prosecutors told the court the case against her was strong and straightforward, leading to the refusal of bail. The decision was announced during proceedings on May 8, 2026.

Two women arrested in Melbourne the previous day after returning from Syria have been charged by the Australian Federal Police. The charges relate to their time in Syria. Both women appeared in court as part of the same counter-terrorism operation.

A portrait of a Pitjantjatjara elder, traditional healer and senior artist has won the 2026 Archibald prize. The award was given to the artist for the work depicting the community leader. All four Australians who were onboard a cruise ship linked to a hantavirus outbreak remain en route to the Canary Islands.

The outbreak has been connected to the deaths of three passengers so far. Health officials continue to monitor the situation aboard the vessel. The former foreign minister has resigned as chancellor of the Australian National University. The resignation was welcomed by an independent senator from the ACT, the student union and the National Tertiary Education Union.

Reporters from the national broadcaster were denied entry to a press conference held by the One Nation party in Albury. An independent representative described the incident as quite rude. The event took place earlier on the day of the Farrer by-election.

The live blog covering these and other national stories has now concluded.