Energy plan customer research
BETA is working with the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) to conduct research to better understand what helps customers comprehend retail plans designed for customers with energy assets (e.g. solar, batteries, EVs).
Impact Analysis Policy Framework has changed
An updated version of the Australian Government’s Impact Analysis Policy Framework (the framework) is now in effect. The framework is designed to help policy makers better understand the wider impacts of policy proposals before decisions are made.
Whether you're developing policy, designing a program or preparing advice, impact analysis helps ensure decision-makers have a clear picture of the cost and benefits of the policy options.
AUKUS
Through the AUKUS partnership, Australia is steadily building capabilities across government and industry to steward and operate our own fleet of conventionally-armed, nuclear-powered submarines from the early 2030s (Pillar I). As we do this, Australia will continue to consult with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to develop a non-proliferation approach that sets the highest non-proliferation standard for the acquisition of a nuclear-powered submarine capability.
Appointment to the ABC and SBS Nomination Panel
The Secretary of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Dr Steven Kennedy PSM, has appointed Ms Phillipa McDermott as a Member of the Nomination Panel for appointments to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) and the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) Boards.
Appointed in accordance with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation Act 1983, Ms McDermott’s term will run from 24 June 2026 to 23 June 2029.
Secretaries Board communique: 17 June 2026
Strategic outlook
The Board discussed government priorities, strategic issues and emerging risks.
Auditor-General biannual update
The Board received an update from Dr Caralee McLiesh PSM, Auditor-General, on sector-wide insights from the Australian National Audit Office’s recent work.
Systems of government significance declaration
The Board received an update on implementation of the Systems of Government Significance standard from Ms Stephanie Foster PSM, Secretary, Department of Home Affairs.
Fuel tax relief extended
The Prime Minister has announced the extension of fuel relief measures.
Cuts to the fuel excise duty rate on petrol and diesel will continue with a 16 cents per litre reduction from 1 July to 2 August 2026.
Relief for transport and freight operators will also be extended, with the heavy vehicle road user charge also reduced by 16 cents a litre from 1 July to 2 August 2026.
State Memorial Service for Professor Richard Scolyer AO
A State Memorial Service for Professor Richard Scolyer AO will take place at 11:00 am on Monday 13 July 2026 at the Sydney Opera House.
Professor Richard Scolyer AO was one of Australia's leading cancer researchers and clinicians whose work contributed to saving thousands of lives from melanoma. As the world's leading melanoma pathologist, Professor Scolyer was named joint 2024 Australian of the Year for his global contribution to melanoma research and clinical care.
Visit to Australia by the Prime Minister of New Zealand
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon met in Noosa on Saturday 6 June for the Australia–New Zealand Annual Leaders’ Meeting.
Leaders discussed strengthening our nations’ economic resilience, boosting prosperity, and responding to strategic challenges. This includes working together closely on the fuel crisis and keeping trade open for energy products and other critical goods.