Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has dismissed claims that his government is "mired in mediocrity," defending his administration's record on the gambling and housing crises. In an interview with ABC Radio National, he stated, "the problem isn’t advertising, the problem is gambling," emphasizing the need for a more substantial approach to these issues. Albanese also hinted that universal childcare will be a key component of Labor's strategy for the upcoming election and did not rule out potential changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax. His comments come as Labor faces criticism for not making concessions to advance its key housing legislation. During the interview, the Prime Minister asserted that there is "nothing timid" about his government's actions, despite ongoing scrutiny regarding its handling of significant policy challenges.

**Australia Politics Live Update: Peter Dutton's First TikTok Video and CFMEU Report on Victorian Branch** In a surprising move, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has shared his inaugural TikTok video, a platform that the Coalition previously sought to ban in Australia. **Housing Australia Future Fund Announcement** The Albanese Government has officially announced the first round of funding from the Housing Australia Future Fund. This initial phase will provide 4,220 social homes and 9,522 affordable homes, which includes 1,267 homes specifically designated for women and children fleeing domestic violence, as well as older women at risk of homelessness. The funding initiative aims to deliver more social and affordable housing in this first round than what the Liberals and Nationals managed during their entire nine years in power. Housing Australia has recommended contract negotiations for 185 projects, with nearly 40% of the anticipated 13,742 dwellings expected to begin construction within this financial year. This first round of funding will unlock a significant $9.2 billion investment in social and affordable housing, involving collaboration between Commonwealth, State, and Territory governments, as well as the private and community housing sectors. In other news, there are ongoing concerns regarding a recent incident in the United States. It has been confirmed that former President Trump is safe, although details surrounding the incident are still emerging.