ABC News

The first match of the FIFA World Cup gets underway on Friday.

Australia will play its first match on Sunday against Türkiye.

The 48-team tournament is being staged across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. 

Australian Bureau of Statistics data suggests we were happier during the pandemic than we are now.

Cost of living and falling wages are contributing to our dissatisfaction with life. 

The squeeze is more pronounced for those already vulnerable, such as single parents and young people.

The former Australian of the Year and pioneering cancer researcher has died aged 59.

One of the world's top melanoma pathologists, Scolyer was diagnosed with IDH "wild" type glioblastoma in 2023.

He fought aggressive brain cancer for years, volunteering to be "patient zero" in a radical approach to treating his tumour.

Scolyer is survived by his wife, Katie, and their children, Lucy, Matt and Emily.

Pumice rock from an undersea volcano eruption has covered the ocean surrounding coastal villages in PNG.

It has prompted food, water and health concerns in the vulnerable communities.

Dense and stagnant coverage in coastal areas can block sunlight and kill coral, fish and other marine animals.

Councillor Raymond Simeku from Baon village said he tried to venture out in a boat, but it "nearly sank like quicksand".

PM James Marape said the government was urgently assessing the situation and determining how to respond.

Dawa Sherpa survived almost a week on Mount Everest with no oxygen supply and just a few chocolates.

The experienced guide was among the last climbers of the season when he became separated from his group.

After six days, the Nepali guide was sighted crawling towards base camp.