1. New daily record for vaccinations as first doses surpass 10 million

279,465 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine were administered on Monday, setting a new daily record. "We believe that's the highest number, not just during the COVID vaccination program, but at any point in Australia's history for vaccinations in a single day," said health minister Greg Hunt. More than 10 million people have now received at least one dose of the vaccine.

2. CSL profits rise by 13%

CSL has reported a 13% increase in net profit to US$2.375 billion ($3.274 billion) and a 13% increase in revenue to US$10.310 billion ($14.210 billion) for the year ending June 30. "I am pleased to report a strong result against a backdrop of very challenging conditions brought on by the global COVID-19 pandemic," said CEO Paul Perreault. The company has declared a final dividend of $US1.18 or approximately $1.61.

3. $40 billion merger of BHP's petroleum business and Woodside

BHP and Woodside have confirmed plans for a merger deal that will create a top 10 independent oil and gas producer globally. The merged company will be 52% owned by BHP shareholders, and 48% owned by Woodside shareholders and will be led by Woodside's newly appointed CEO Meg O'Neill.

4. Snake slithers in supermarket spice section

Shoppers at a Woolworths in Glenorie, NSW were surprised to find a diamond python slithering along the spice shelves on Monday. The three-metre python was eventually removed by a former wildlife volunteer who happened to spot the snake.

5. Major indexes fall from record levels

The Dow Jones and S&P 500 have fallen overnight after a week of record highs, with the Dow down 282.12 points or 0.79% to 35,343.28 and the S&P 500 closing 31.63 points or 0.71% lower to 4,448.08. The Nasdaq dropped 137.58 points or 0.93% to 14,656.18.