Over a dozen new food outlets are set to open at Brisbane International Airport, significantly enhancing the culinary offerings available to travelers. This expansion includes well-known brands such as McDonald’s, Hungry Jacks, and KFC, alongside a Mediterranean-inspired bar, Manna, Sushi Jiro, Liv Eat kiosks, and the coffee brand Bellissimo. McDonald’s is slated to be one of the first to open its doors in late December, with additional outlets launching throughout 2026.
Scott Norris, the executive general manager commercial at Brisbane Airport, emphasized the goal of this upgrade: “This upgrade is about celebrating the best of Brisbane and giving our customers more of what they love, great food, great coffee, and a great start to their journey,” he said. This development is part of the airport’s ambitious $5 billion Future BNE transformation project.
Gold Coast Drug Busts Ahead of Schoolies
In a significant crackdown, nearly 100 charges have been filed following a series of search warrants executed on the Gold Coast in the lead-up to Schoolies. Detectives have charged 15 individuals with 93 drug and weapons offenses after eight searches revealed quantities of methylamphetamine, cocaine, cannabis, MDMA tablets, prescription drugs, weapons, and over $70,000 in cash.
Detective Acting Superintendent Bowman highlighted the importance of these operations: “The drugs seized were destined for the streets in the lead-up to Schoolies celebrations, with no regard for the impact they could have,” he stated. “These substances destroy lives and fund further criminal activity, which is why we will continue to pursue those responsible.”
Queensland Government’s Policy Shift
The Crisafulli government is poised to permanently end its predecessor’s controversial major project procurement policy. Housing and Public Works Minister Sam O’Connor is expected to announce this change during a keynote speech at a Business Chamber Queensland lunch. The former policy, criticized for favoring unions, was said to have driven down productivity according to industry bodies and the LNP while in opposition.
Within weeks of assuming office last year, the LNP paused the Best Practice Industry Conditions (BPICs) for new projects, pending a final decision from the state Productivity Commission. The commission’s report, submitted last month, will be released publicly alongside the government’s response by January.
O’Connor commented on the policy shift: “BPICs pushed up prices, slowed projects and locked local contractors out. They were a CFMEU tax on Queenslanders — and we’re permanently removing them,” he said. “Together with our new procurement policy, this is a major step in saving taxpayers billions and getting crucial housing and infrastructure delivered faster.”
The Wiggles’ Consumer Law Breach
The Wiggles have admitted to likely breaching consumer law by selling light-up headbands that lacked mandatory warning labels about the inclusion of batteries posing a safety risk to children. The children’s entertainment group sold 3,164 of its yellow and black Emma Bow headbands, featuring four lights powered by potentially hazardous button batteries, at concerts, in stores, and online between June 2022 and March 2024.
On Tuesday, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) issued a statement indicating that The Wiggles Holdings had provided a court-enforceable undertaking, admitting to the likely breach. The band has committed to implementing a compliance program, including producing an episode of its Wiggle Talk – A Podcast For Parents, to raise awareness of the safety issue surrounding button batteries and children’s toys.
Local Crime and National Commemoration
In local news, a family dog remains missing after being stolen along with the ute it was sleeping inside. Arnie’s owner, Nathan McKeown, was visiting a friend near Davidson Street in Wynnum on Friday when the vehicle was taken. Police continue to investigate and urge anyone with information to come forward.
Meanwhile, today marks 50 years since former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam was dismissed, a pivotal moment in Australian history. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced plans to erect a statue in front of Old Parliament House to commemorate Whitlam’s speech and the achievements of his government. Former Prime Minister John Howard has expressed support for the actions of then-governor general Sir John Kerr, who dismissed the Whitlam government and installed Malcolm Fraser as prime minister.
