The number of refugee claims made by people arriving in Australia by plane on visas allowing them to work, study or travel has nearly doubled in the past year, leading to accusations Labor is “all froth, no beer” on border protection.

Sydney’s housing crisis is being exacerbated by a flood of international students who are arriving far faster than new housing can be built to accommodate them.

Queenslanders who are set to be slugged tens of thousands of dollars to make their homes more energy-efficient and accessible should have access to government rebates, a peak construction body has said.

Blood tests and brain scans may soon replace memory tests for the earlier and more accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, in a move set to also revolutionise treatment.

The state government is resisting renewed pressure to make flu vaccinations free for all South Australians, following the Queensland government’s decision to provide shots for all residents.