The Daily Aus Headlines: RBA increases cash rate to 4.1%
Mar 17, 2026
A central bank raises the cash rate to 4.1% and what that means for loans and prices. NSW rolls out digital birth certificates for young people. A lawsuit claims an AI image tool enabled sexualised images from real photos. Researchers find wearable data could help detect insulin resistance early.
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RBA Raises Cash Rate To 4.1 Percent
- The RBA raised the cash rate from 3.85% to 4.1%, directly affecting bank lending costs and home loans.
- The board vote was split 5–4 and cited higher fuel prices from the Middle East conflict as a driver that could add to inflation.
NSW Launches Digital Birth Certificates
- New South Wales launched digital birth certificates for people aged 16 to 21, letting them carry certificates on their phones.
- Minister Jihad Dib framed it as a secure alternative to searching physical documents or contacting parents for proof of birth.
Teenagers Sue xAI Over Image Generator
- Three teenagers sued xAI (Grok) alleging its image generator let users create sexually explicit content using real people's photos, seeking class-action status.
- Plaintiffs say digitally altered real images caused emotional distress; xAI responded it blocks editing real people in revealing clothing where illegal.