Middle East Energy Shock: Trump’s renewed Strait of Hormuz blockade talk and fresh US-Iran strikes are pushing oil higher again, with Australians warned petrol could jump by 10+ cents a litre as crude feeds through. Grid & Power Costs: CSIRO’s GenCost modelling says cutting renewables and leaning harder on coal and gas could lower electricity costs by 2050, but only by abandoning climate commitments and accepting much higher pollution. Gas Policy Pressure: Victoria’s Coalition gas mining push is criticised for lacking detail on household price impacts, supply rules and whether fracking or local council controls will apply. Uranium & Nuclear Fuel Security: Australia and India have finalised the administrative arrangement under their civil nuclear cooperation deal, setting a framework for long-term, IAEA-safeguarded uranium exports to support India’s nuclear expansion. AI Datacentres & Energy Demand: Australia is moving to create a national Office of AI and fast-track data centre approvals, as the datacentre boom continues to reshape energy planning and investment. Local Energy Bills: Perth households are shifting winter heating demand toward ducted reverse-cycle systems as tariff resets make efficient electric heating more attractive than gas heaters. Workforce Constraints: Perth commercial clients are reporting delays from the electrician shortage as compliance testing deadlines collide with a shrinking pool of licensed trades. Mining Safety Insurance: Lloyd’s consortium launches miner rescue insurance aimed at funding rapid response when workers are trapped underground. Energy Transition Reality Check: A report argues most critical-mineral demand is still driven by conventional industries and AI/defence, raising pressure on supply chains and renewables developers.