Fuel meetings, cyclone cleanup, and Kylie at the GF | ABC News Top Stories

State and territory leaders will discuss fuel supply with the prime minister today at a national cabinet meeting.

With hundreds of service stations reporting shortages and prices sky high thanks to the war in the Middle East, state leaders are calling for a national approach to any potential moves like rationing or working from home recommendations.

Anthony Albanese has watered down concerns about COVID style restrictions but says he welcomes 'common sense voluntary measures'.  

Victoria and Tasmania have made public transport free in response to the growing crisis, and there's pressure on other states to follow suit.

Fuel has been blocked coming through the Strait of Hormuz in the Middle East, with Iran now signalling it could impose more oil chokeholds. 

Iran's also accused the US of secretly planning a ground invasion, despite claiming it's engaged in peace talks

So far America and Israel's attacks on Iran have been through airstrikes... but the US has sent soldiers to the region with reports it's preparing for weeks of ground operations, which US president Donald Trump is yet to approve.

Iran's warned its fighters are waiting for American troops, with missiles in place.

Meanwhile, the Pope says God rejects the prayers of leaders who start wars, with his comments being seen as a criticism of people using Christian language to justify the war against Iran.

He did not mention any individual...but it comes after US defence secretary Pete Hegseth said Americans should "pray to Jesus" for the success of US forces. 

Specialist teams are being deployed in WA to help clean-up after Tropical Cyclone Narelle.

The storm hit on Friday bringing massive rain and winds to the state's northwest, causing significant damage in Exmouth and Carnarvon.

WA premier Roger Cook's heading to the region today to assess the damage, and authorities are urging people to stay out of flood waters.

Australian universities are copping criticism for spending big on external consultants, with some companies charging millions for advice on how to cut costs.

Experts say universities spent around $1.8 billion on consultants and contractors in 2024, without clarity on what that money goes to.

Education Minister Jason Clare has told Four Corners he wants more transparency from universities.

And Kylie Minogue will be the 2026 AFL grand final entertainment.

The Aussie pop icon will perform for tens of thousands of footy fans at the MCG in September, after the AFL confirmed the match will start at 2.30pm local time for another two years.

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