National News

Lance Armstrong has reached a $US5 million settlement with the federal government in a whistleblower lawsuit that could have sought $US100 million in damages from the cyclist.

Almost 170,000 Australians with welfare debts racked up through false claims are being warned to sign repayment plans or cop interest charges.

Plastic straws, drink stirrers and cotton buds could be banned in the United Kingdom, but Malcolm Turnbull stopped short of backing a similar ban at home.

Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern have made Time's list of 2018's 100 most influential people alongside an eclectic group including US President Donald Trump, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, soon-to-be member of the British royal family Meghan Markle and Black Panther's Chadwick Boseman.

Sydney Roosters coach Trent Robinson has fiercely defended his side's 6-0 win over Canterbury, describing it as a game for rugby league "purists".

A 78-year-old pilot and his gyrocopter still haven't been found more than 24 hours after he failed to arrive at his central Queensland destination.

Wayne Bennett has walked out on a media conference after he taking exception to questions about his coaching future.

Queensland has recorded its highest jobs growth in the country for the 12 months to March but still languishes compared with other states' unemployment rates.

Unions have projected a $50-a-week rise in the minimum wage will create as many as 57,000 jobs in the first year after being introduced.

Northern Territory chief minister Michael Gunner says the removal of a ban on fracking should mean extra commonwealth funding, given the federal government is threatening to penalise states that don't develop their gas reserves.