Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is facing mounting pressure over his government’s $368 billion AUKUS submarine deal, as the geopolitical landscape shifts with the rising possibility of Donald Trump returning to the White House. The historic defense pact, designed to bolster Australia’s military might and deepen strategic ties with the U.S. and U.K., now stands on increasingly shaky ground — politically and financially.

The AUKUS agreement, signed under the Morrison government and endorsed by Albanese, is Australia’s largest-ever military commitment, promising a future fleet of nuclear-powered submarines to deter growing threats in the Indo-Pacific. But with Trump widely speculated to be plotting a 2024 presidential comeback, the long-term reliability of U.S. involvement — and the stability of the deal — is suddenly uncertain.

Trump, during his first term, repeatedly questioned America’s role in global alliances, criticized NATO spending, and flirted with isolationist policies. If reelected, experts warn he may adopt a similar stance toward AUKUS, leaving Australia holding a multi-billion-dollar investment without guaranteed delivery or long-term strategic backing.

Despite the risks, Albanese has made it clear: Australia is all in. During recent public appearances and national security briefings, the Prime Minister reaffirmed his commitment to the pact, describing it as “an essential investment in our sovereignty and future security.” Behind closed doors, however, senior defense officials are reportedly scrambling to shore up contingencies in case a future Trump administration tries to renegotiate or abandon the deal.

Critics at home are also beginning to voice their doubts. Opposition figures and defense analysts have raised concerns about the astronomical cost, the decades-long timeline, and the political volatility of the United States, questioning whether this is a wise use of taxpayer money in an era of budget constraints and growing domestic pressures.

On the global stage, China has predictably condemned the deal, calling it a destabilizing move in the region. Meanwhile, U.K. officials remain cautiously optimistic, focusing on their role as the third pillar of the trilateral agreement and hoping that a U.S. power shift won’t derail the broader vision.

For now, Albanese is betting that bipartisan support in Washington and strong military-to-military ties will keep AUKUS afloat, even if Trump returns. But with billions already committed and construction timelines stretching into the 2040s, the Prime Minister’s gamble is no longer just strategic — it’s personal, political, and potentially historic.

As Australians prepare for the King’s Birthday long weekend, police across the nation are intensifying road safety measures in response to a concerning increase in traffic-related fatalities. In Victoria, authorities have launched Operation Regal, a statewide initiative aimed at reducing road trauma during this high-risk period. The operation, running from Friday, June 6 to Monday, June 9, will see heightened police presence on major arterials and highways, particularly those leading to holiday destinations and alpine regions. Speeding, distracted driving, and impaired driving are key focus areas, with officers conducting random breath and drug tests to deter dangerous behaviors.

The urgency of these measures is underscored by alarming statistics: Victoria has recorded 136 road deaths in 2025, marking a 14% increase compared to the same period last year and reaching a 16-year high. May alone saw 37 fatalities, the worst for that month since 2004. Particularly concerning is the rise in deaths among vulnerable road users, including motorcyclists and pedestrians.

In New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, double demerit points are in effect from June 6 to June 9. Offences such as speeding, illegal mobile phone use, not wearing seatbelts, and helmet violations will incur double the usual demerit points, increasing the risk of license suspension for repeat offenders.

While states like South Australia, Tasmania, and the Northern Territory do not implement double demerits, they are conducting their own safety campaigns. Tasmania Police, for instance, are urging caution during the Dark Mofo festival, emphasizing the importance of pedestrian safety in low-light conditions.

Authorities nationwide are appealing to all road users to prioritize safety, adhere to traffic laws, and remain vigilant. With increased enforcement and public awareness campaigns, the goal is to prevent avoidable tragedies and ensure everyone reaches their destinations safely during the holiday weekend.

In a significant development for Cobb County, Georgia, and its newly incorporated city of Mableton, local leaders have reached a one-year agreement to resume essential public services, including law enforcement and transportation. This accord comes after the Georgia Department of Community Affairs had imposed sanctions due to a missed deadline for finalizing a Service Delivery Strategy (SDS) agreement.

The temporary agreement stipulates that Mableton will pay Cobb County $9.5 million for police and Department of Transportation (DOT) services over the next year. This figure is a compromise from the county’s initial demand of $23 million. The deal was brokered with the assistance of a mediator during a 12-hour negotiation session at the David Hankerson Building.

While the agreement ensures the continuation of vital services, it also raises concerns about potential double taxation. Mableton residents currently contribute over $41 million in property taxes to the county, a portion of which funds public safety and transportation. City officials argue that the additional $9.5 million payment effectively charges residents twice for the same services.

To address the financial implications, Mableton’s City Manager has proposed the establishment of a Special Service District for Public Safety and DOT. This approach aims to raise necessary funds without implementing a citywide property tax, a measure Mayor Michael Owens opposes. The city is also exploring the possibility of forming its own municipal police department if a long-term agreement with the county cannot be reached.

The one-year SDS agreement serves as a stopgap measure, allowing