Qantas data leak sparks scam warnings across Australia
Australia woke to renewed caution after millions were warned about fake compensation claims tied to a major Qantas data leak. Hackers reportedly released information on the dark web from offshore call centres that used Salesforce software, exposing names, email addresses, frequent flyer numbers and a broad swath of personal data. In response, Qantas has urged customers to stay vigilant against fraudulent claims and contacted affected users with identity protection guidance and a dedicated support line. The government is promising to use all available legal tools to hold the airline to account and to strengthen consumer protections as cyber threats grow more sophisticated.
The breach, attributed to a ransomware operation, underscored how the lines between cybercrime and social engineering have blurred. Australians are warned that scam attempts could arrive by phone, email or text, with attackers attempting to impersonate official channels or urgently coax victims into revealing further details. Security officials have stressed that people should verify any contact through official Qantas channels rather than returning suspicious calls or clicking unfamiliar links.
Federal and state authorities are now coordinating on response measures. The government’s emphasis is on accountability for data protection, including penalties for mishandling customer information and improved incident reporting. Affected customers have access to identity protection services, and NSW’s legal steps to prevent data misuse show the seriousness with which data security is being treated. As data assets move through cloud and outsourced services, the episode signals the ongoing need for robust third-party risk management and rapid breach notification laws.
Social media for under-16s moves closer to effect
In another front of Australia’s digital policy agenda, the communications minister, Anika Wells, is meeting with major platforms today to discuss the looming under-16 social media ban. The government plans to implement minimum-age requirements across platforms such as Meta, Snapchat, YouTube and TikTok, with eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant joining the discussions. The aim is to shield younger users from predatory or excessively persuasive features while preserving the positive aspects of social connectivity and information access.
Wells underscored that the laws are designed to give children a safer online environment and that platforms must cooperate with the eSafety framework to verify age and enforce compliance. The talks include a scheduled meeting with X (formerly Twitter) next month, reflecting ongoing global debates about how to regulate social media for minors. Critics argue that age gates alone aren’t enough; supporters say a proactive, cooperative approach with tech companies is essential to prevent harm and misinformation from reaching young users.
The government’s stance is clear: there is a space for social media, but not for predatory algorithms or practices that push vulnerable users toward harmful content. Executives and regulators are expected to outline how compliance will be monitored and what consequences will follow if platforms fail to meet obligations once the rules take effect in December.
NSW pothole repairs: hundreds of fixes on the way
Separately, the New South Wales government announced a significant investment in road infrastructure to tackle potholes and maintain road quality. The initiative, totaling around $200 million, aims to repair thousands of potholes across Sydney after an unusually wet winter. Last year the state repaired nearly 11,000 potholes, and the August-September period already shows more than 5,100 fixes, signaling a sustained push to improve driving conditions and road safety.
Transport officials say the program will relieve wear and tear on vehicles and reduce maintenance costs for drivers and businesses. The plan aligns with broader efforts to modernize infrastructure and support economic activity by ensuring reliable transport networks. While the focus is on immediate repairs, authorities also emphasize long-term maintenance plans to prevent recurrent potholes and secure smoother, safer commutes for residents.
As these stories unfold, Australians can expect ongoing updates on cyber protections, digital policy, and public works investments. The converging themes—data security, youth-access to social platforms, and road safety funding—highlight a year of decisive governance in both digital and physical infrastructure.
