Anthony Albanese could soon be elected unopposed as the new Labor leader after contender Chris Bowen pulled out of the race.

Disgraced Sydney businessman Salim Mehajer is seeking legal access to a mobile phone because "his safety is paramount" and prison officers had intelligence there was a $250,000 bounty on his head, his lawyer says.

Andrew Fifita has suggested that Brisbane tearaway David Fifita could follow Broncos teammate Tevita Pangai Jr and shun State of Origin to pledge allegiance to Tonga.

Hazard reduction burns across Sydney have been suspended for at least 24 hours to allow smoke from earlier burns to clear, with agencies considering whether to go ahead with a planned burn near Wollongong.

A baby is one of six people to contract measles after coming in contact with an infected overseas traveller in Victoria.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has reacted to Queensland's rejection of federal Labor by ordering an urgent meeting with Indian mining giant Adani to resolve the drawn out delays plaguing the project.

Ivan Cleary has launched a passionate defence of NSW halfback and son Nathan, saying the days of representative teams being based on form are "long gone".

Gavin Cooper has issued a plea for State of Origin selection, believing his experience and leadership qualities can make him an invaluable member of the Maroons.

The United States has seen signs the Syrian government may be using chemical weapons, including an alleged chlorine attack on Sunday in northwest Syria, the US State Department says.

Abortion rights campaigners have rallied at the US Supreme Court to protest new restrictions on abortion passed in eight states.