Budget day is here, and whales make waves

This episode of Squiz Today covers a range of major news stories on Budget Day 2026, with a focus on Treasurer Jim Chalmers' upcoming federal budget. Key policy issues under scrutiny include potential changes to the capital gains tax discount and negative gearing—policies that could reshape Australia's property market and address intergenerational inequality. The government is also considering cuts to the NDIS, business tax reforms, and a potential $200–$300 tax offset for workers. Meanwhile, the episode reports on the suspected death of Julian Ingram, the man accused of a triple murder in regional NSW, after police found a decomposed body near an abandoned vehicle. On the international front, the US rejected Iran’s peace proposal, with President Trump calling it 'incredibly weak,' while tensions rise ahead of a high-stakes meeting between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Domestically, a viral 'speedrun' trend targeting the Church of Scientology HQ in Brisbane led to police involvement and charges. The episode also highlights the annual whale migration along Australia’s coastlines, with new research revealing whales 'gaping' as a social signal. Finally, the podcast features a segment on ComBank’s new partnership with Australian fashion label Bear Park, including an interview with founder Bella Pereira, who discusses her design philosophy, the significance of the collaboration, and her upcoming show at Australian Fashion Week.