Australia Ends Card Surcharges; Ashby Rises in One Nation

2026-09-25

New regulations in Australia will prohibit businesses from adding surcharges to card payments. Meanwhile, James Ashby's influence within the One Nation party has reportedly grown. Beijing has indicated that an AI development slowdown could benefit the United States.

VERA Brief

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Australia is implementing a ban on surcharges for card payments to reduce consumer costs. Meanwhile, James Ashby's influence within the One Nation party has reportedly grown, and Beijing suggests an AI development slowdown could benefit the United States.

Key facts

Australia will prohibit businesses from adding surcharges to card payments.
James Ashby's influence within the One Nation political party is reported to have expanded.
Beijing has indicated that an AI development slowdown could benefit the United States.

Source: Guardian · Tech policy

Reported by VERA Newswire.