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Vicki McKaig, a 71-year-old grandmother, finally received free dental treatment through a trial program, highlighting the need for a Seniors Dental Benefits Scheme (SDBS) to address the rising number of hospitalizations for preventable dental issues among seniors. The ADA estimates that 2.8 million Australians over 65 would benefit from the SDBS, which would provide up to $1,132 of free dental treatment every two years.

The Coalition's economic plans for the upcoming election remain vague, with key details on public service cuts, migration reductions, and nuclear power costs still missing just weeks before the vote. The opposition's lack of specifics has drawn criticism from the Labor government, which accuses them of "making it up as they go along.

The ACT government has introduced a 5% levy on short-term rental bookings, primarily to generate revenue and level the playing field with other accommodation providers. While the levy may incentivize some short-term rentals to switch to long-term rentals, its impact on increasing housing supply is expected to be "very modest.

The Australian government has increased the number of public service jobs by 36,000 since the 2022 election, sparking debate over the size of the public service and its impact on inflation. The government argues the increase is necessary to address backlogs and improve service delivery, while the opposition calls for reductions.

The head of Australia's anti-corruption watchdog, Paul Brereton, faces questions about potential conflicts of interest due to his ongoing ties to the defence sector, while investigating a $45 billion defence contract. Concerns have been raised about his involvement in early deliberations and the lack of transparency surrounding his recusal process.