Friday the 13th has sparked a $25 billion bloodbath on the local sharemarket

Mining giant BHP Billiton says the burst dam at its Samarco joint venture in Brazil has spread toxic tailings for 440 kilometres downstream and affected 11 communities.

• Vale, BHP 'were completely careless' |
• BHP shares crash in London

Optus has overtaken Vodafone as the most complained about phone and internet provider per customer in Australia, according to an industry survey.

The rising tide of investors who are short-selling the banks are treading in dangerous waters, Credit Suisse says. 

Parramatta small businesses say the Commonwealth Bank's decision to move its headquarters from the area will hurt the local economy.

Medibank Private and Bupa will push for a sliding scale of lifetime discounts on private health cover for people who sign up before they are 30.