WA has a "strong economy" that's the "envy of the nation", as the mining state banks a whopping $3.1 billion budget surplus amid cost-of-living pressures.

With almost 200 of the 295 psychiatrists working across the NSW's public health sector set to leave due to pay disputes, the state's government has offered temporary, high-paid contracts for private workers to fill the gaps.

Safety warnings are lifted at most of Hobart's beaches in time for Christmas. Meanwhile, the multinational owner of Cadbury's chocolate Factory is being investigated for the release of "high strength trade waste".

Foxtel sold for $3.4 billion to a British streaming outfit, while the ASX 200 gained 1.7 per cent, recouping much of last week's losses. Here's how the day's trade unfolded, with insights from our business reporters, on the ABC News markets blog.

The NSW government announces a $15 million emergency package to stem the critical shortage of wheelchair accessible taxis.

A once-empty suburban lot in Adelaide has been transformed into a village of tiny homes to support young people transitioning out of the child and family protection system.

It has been a year where people have experienced vastly differing fortunes. Leading economists say 2024's conditions centred on the impact of interest rates being used to tame inflation, and a "per capita" recession.

A handful of Sydney businesses follow the lead of the Minns government and have applied to the Fair Work Commission to put an end to train work bans.

Grampians tourism operators are calling for government support claiming a huge bushfire that's forced the closure of Halls Gap is costing businesses $1.9 million a day.

Customers whose flights are delayed would receive a full refund and assistance in booking a new flight under a new aviation charter of rights being considered by the Albanese government.