Why is this game only legal in Australia once a year?

Two-up, a traditional Australian coin-flipping betting game, involves two players wagering on whether a tossed coin will land heads or tails. Though classified as unregulated gambling, it is typically outlawed throughout most of the country. However, on 25 April, the game becomes a legal spectacle as Australians gather in pubs to play for a brief window of time. The BBC’s Harry Sekulich explores the reason behind this annual exception and shares perspectives from those who support or oppose it. Video by Kellie Highet.

A Tragedy at Bondi Beach

Australia’s iconic Bondi Beach transformed into a somber memorial site after a deadly attack on Sunday. The mother of Matilda, the youngest victim, placed flowers and candles at a makeshift tribute on Tuesday evening, describing her daughter’s death as an “unspeakable loss.” A service was held at Chabad of Bondi, a local Jewish community center, marking the first funerals for those killed in the incident.

“This is a moment of profound grief for our community,” said a grieving parent at the memorial.

Footage from the event reveals the chaos as the beach turned into a scene of horror. New South Wales Police confirmed 12 fatalities, including a child, with 29 others hospitalized. The shooting, which targeted the Jewish community during a Hanukkah gathering, has sparked nationwide discussions about safety and cultural significance. BBC News Australia correspondent Katy Watson reported on the aftermath, highlighting the investigation into the attack.

Social Media Ban for Minors

On December 10, Australia will implement a nationwide ban on social media platforms for individuals under 16. The BBC surveyed young people aged 18 to 20 to understand their reactions to the policy. Teens in Sydney, Brisbane, and Canberra shared their concerns about losing access to online accounts, which they rely on for communication and creativity.

“It feels like we’re being cut off from the world,” said one teen, reflecting on the impact of the ban.

Two content creators from the same age group discussed how the restriction might reshape their routines. The measure aims to protect young users from online risks, but its effects on daily life remain a topic of debate. A 60-second summary of the policy was also provided, outlining key details for families and educators.

Natural Disaster Impact

Following the mass shooting, a separate crisis unfolded in Sydney’s coastal regions. A wildfire ravaged an area north of the city, leaving multiple homes damaged. The incident, while less deadly than the Bondi attack, underscored the vulnerability of communities to both human and natural threats.

Meanwhile, the focus on the Jewish community’s Hanukkah event at Bondi Beach continued. Correspondent Joe Inwood analyzed verified footage, which showed a gunman firing from a nearby carpark bridge. The video captured the skydiver’s moment of tension before completing the dive, adding a symbolic layer to the tragedy.