A massive fire at a critical Australian oil refinery is being investigated

A major fire has broken out at one of the nation's most critical fuel hubs, adding further pressure to fuel stocks at a time the country can least afford it.… [...]

'A new nuclear arms race': the Government pledges a further $53bn for defence

The government has warned of a new nuclear arms race, as it unveiled a commitment to lift defence spending. Around $53bn dollars is flagged for the next ten years, including… [...]

PM Albanese visits Malaysia in a third diplomatic stop to secure energy supply for Australia

As the consequences of the Geelong refinery blaze are still being counted, the Prime Minister is continuing his international efforts to secure energy supplies. Chief Political Correspondent Anna Henderson has… [...]

How to get the best view of the Lyrid meteor shower in Australian skies

Stargazers can rejoice as another celestial event passes through Earth's atmosphere. [...]

Creative accounting or record investments? Labor unveils 2026 National Defence Strategy

The Australian Government has unveiled the 2026 National Defence Strategy, outlining reprioritised investments in drones, missile defence and undersea warfare capabilities. While the government claims the new strategy includes record… [...]

ASX falls despite Wall Street record as jobless rate holds and AI reshapes workplace

The ASX eases despite strong leads from Wall Street, while Australia’s unemployment rate holds at 4.3 per cent and companies grapple with rising costs. Ricardo Gonçalves speaks with HSBC Chief… [...]

Trump’s Hormuz gambit, Hungary ousts Orbán & Colombia’s cocaine war

US-Iran talks collapse, and China feels the pressure over President Trump’s blockade in the Strait of Hormuz. Plus, a stunning election victory signals a new era for Hungary and how… [...]

How Australia's defence spend compares globally, as Marles' numbers questioned

The government's newly announced 2026 National Defence Strategy will see the budget grow by $53 billion over the next decade. [...]

Evening News Bulletin 16 April 2026 | Australia Secures Additional Diesel Supplies

Australia secures 100 million litres of additional diesel imports; Richard Marles announces a $14 billion increase in defence spending; Shepparton is set to host two rounds of the BMX Racing… [...]

Minns says NSW government 'disappointed' as protest laws ruled unconstitutional

A judge in NSW's top court has struck down the state's laws regarding restrictions on protests. [...]

Import nation: How Australia went from eight oil refineries to two

Australia only has two oil refineries and one caught fire overnight, igniting further concerns about the nation's fuel security. [...]

Fire at fuel refinery in Geelong | | SBS News in Easy English 16 April 2026

A daily 5-minute news wrap for English learners and people with disability.  [...]