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Showing posts from February, 2020

Market is pricing in ‘pessimism” as world grapples with coronavirus

The Australian’s John Durie says the coronavirus outbreak is prompting "fear" on global markets, as investigations grapple with a sharp slowdown in economic growth. Wall Street recorded its worst week since the 2008 global financial crisis on the news that COVID-19, better known as coronavirus, has spread to over 40 countries. Investors have been selling off their shares with Wall Street losing $4 trillion in value on Friday, while US Treasury bond yields also sank to a new record low as traders looked to invest in safe havens assets like gold. Mr Durie told Sky News countries that are reliant on China will feel the brunt of the economic fallout. “I think companies across the world are going to be saying we’re relying on China too much and that we should source products from other countries – inevitably that means higher costs and that translates into inflation,” he said. Head of Research at Pepperstone Chris Weston also told Sky News "extreme pessimism" is being pr...
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Comeback kid: Joe Biden wins South Carolina primary

Joe Biden’s ailing presidential primary campaign received a much-needed boost after the former Vice President won the South Carolina Democratic primary on Sunday. As soon as voting closed in the Southern state, exit polls showed the 77-year-old easily defeating rival Bernie Sanders, who won primaries in Nevada and New Hampshire. Mr Biden needed to win following his dismal showing in the early voting states, where he received far less voters than Senator Sanders, former South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg and Minnesota senator Amy Klobuchar. The former Vice President was clearly relieved, telling supporters his campaign “is back on track”. “Just said ago the press and the pundits declared this candidacy dead,” he said. “Now thanks to all of you, the heart of the Democratic Party, we just won and we won big because of you. “We are very much alive.” The victory gives him new momentum as the Democratic race to find a challenger to President Trump now comes to a head, with the Super Tuesday pri...
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FULL MEDIA CONFERENCE: WA man announced as first Australian to die from coronavirus

A Perth man has become the first Australian fatality of COVID-19, commonly known as coronavirus. The 78-year-old, who has not yet been named, was on the Diamond Princess cruise ship and was being treated in isolation at Perth’s Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital. A spokesperson from WA Health said the man's wife, who contracted the disease, remains stable in hospital after having "the opportunity to talk to him prior to his death”. “It doesn’t change anything for the status of the coronavirus – we always knew this was a disease that could always be very serious, particularly for the more elderly and those who have chronic conditions… there is no risk for the general community or staff,” he said. The news comes after a further two cases were confirmed in Australia overnight, bringing the total number of cases to 27. According to the World Health Organisation, worldwide there have been 83,652 confirmed cases of coronavirus that has resulted in 2,800 deaths. Image: Getty Via news.com....
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Senate motion condemning Bettina Arndt a ‘complete freedom of speech violation’

Outsiders host Rowan Dean says while he was "deeply disturbed" by Bettina Ardnt's comments on Hannah Clarke, he thinks the Senate motion to condemn her was a "complete violation" of freedom of speech. Mr Dean said there was no “justification or excuse for the horrific terrifying murders committed by Rowan Baxter" and he did not support Ms Ardnt's comments but would defend her right to express her views. "I don't support Bettina Arndt's comments, but I do defend her right to express them and for anyone else to express their opposition to them," he said. Mr Dean said because the Senate decided to pass a motion condemning Ms Arndt for the controversial comments, it was “using the overwhelming power of government to crush one individual's reputation for expressing a point of view”. “Only two senators were brave enough to vote against the motion - One Nation senators Pauline Hanson and Malcolm Roberts. Image: News Corp Australia Via new...
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‘Spectacular’ Thunderstorm Lights Up Night Skies Above Townsville

An evening lightning storm illuminated skies above Townsville, Queensland on February 28. “Storms have been passing through in spectacular fashion … it’s like a freaking plasma ball! Of epic proportions!” James Byrne posted to Instagram with this video. Elsewhere in the state, the Bureau of Meteorology warned of severe thunderstorms likely to bring damaging winds and hailstones to South-East Queensland. Credit: James Byrne via Storyful Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Racing NSW, ATC meet over coronavirus concerns

Racing NSW and the Australian Turf Club are in the early stages of assessing how the coronavirus could affect the Sydney Autumn Carnival this year. ATC General Manager Communications Brett de Vine told Sky News the talks were about “getting both of our organisations both on the same page to carry out the early stages of a risk assessment and what that might look like”. Mr de Vine said both organisations want to ensure the protection of animals and customers but at the moment it’s very much “business as usual”. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Surplus budget prospects grim as coronavirus impact grows

The Morrison Government's prized budget surplus is looking shaky as the economy continues to be impacted by precautions to limit the spread of coronavirus. This as Australia's top spy boss warns of foreign interference and Labor continuing to find political points by going after the controversial sports grants program. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Classmates Surprise 16-Year-Old With Birthday Swag Bag

Students at Thunder Ridge High School in Idaho Falls, Idaho surprised their 16-year-old classmate with a swag bag full of new clothes for his birthday. Porter Harris, a coach at the school, took this video of the student, Dylan, being surprised by his classmates. He fell to his knees and eagerly opened his bag as onlookers commented on the gifts. According to reports, Dylan’s mother died a few years ago and since then, his family has struggled financially. He has been wearing the same clothes for a year, according to Harris and the report. Credit: Porter Harris via Storyful Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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HK media tycoon arrested over march

Hong Kong publishing tycoon Jimmy Lai, an outspoken critic of Beijing, and two other pro-democracy activists were arrested by police on Friday on charges of illegal assembly, according to local media. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Woman dies after horror Sydney crash

A woman has died after an elderly driver ploughed into a café at North Epping injuring 10 people. The 89-year-old driver crashed his Holden Commodore just after 10.30am on the corner of Malton and Roma St, North Epping. The woman was critically injured on the scene and died in hospital a few hours later. Nine others suffered minor injuries in the incident. A crime scene has been established. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Two dead after train hits car in SA

Police will investigate whether speed was a factor when a train collided with a car north of Adelaide leaving two people dead. Ron Matthews and Marg Moffat were killed when a train collided with their car at a level crossing at Mallala, 60 kilometres north of Adelaide. The collision occurred just after 3pm local time on Thursday. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Australia ‘fortunate’ to be an isolated island to protect against coronavirus

Australian Border Force Commissioner Michael Outram says Australia is "very fortunate" it is an isolated island, allowing for better protection against the spread of coronavirus by focusing on key "choke points". "We've already intervened with half a million passengers over the last couple of weeks with enhanced screening as passengers come into our airports," Mr Outram said. "We want to deter people from making the decision to come to Australia if they aren't feeling well - and realise that if they do so there is a risk they won't get through or be put into quarantine," he said. "We don't want to stop people travelling to Australia, we want to make sure they're armed with the correct information." Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Aged care facility required ‘tailored solution’

Labor’s Kimberly Kitching has pressed the Coalition on why a grant for an aged care facility in a Nationals electorate was finalised so quickly, just days after the leadership spill. The Australian newspaper revealed on Thursday just days after the Nationals leadership spill Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack lobbied the prime minister for a $120,000 grant to keep an aged care home in the electorate of Nationals MP Damian Drum. Richard Colbeck, Minister for Aged Care and Senior Australians confirmed that Mr Drum organised a visit to the DP Jones aged care home by Mr McCormack saying the facility is “quite unique and needed a tailored solution”. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Socialism ‘sounds cool and like a ticket to free collage’ to younger voters

CEO of the US Studies Centre Simon Jackman says for the younger generation of voters in America, socialism "sounds cool and it sounds like free college and cheaper health care". On Wednesday, Democratic frontrunner Bernie Sanders had to fend off attacks during a bruising two-hour debate between presidential candidates in South Carolina. Moderate candidates Michael Bloomberg and Joe Biden argued by voting for a left-socialist like Mr Sanders, the Democrats would all but hand victory to President Trump at the upcoming election. Mr Sanders rebuked his colleagues, saying "of the last 50 polls that have been done nationally, I beat Trump 47 of those 50 times". Mr Jackson told Sky News the "message" Bernie Sanders conveys does "skew younger in its appeal but then (also) reaches right back to the 'old-left' and part of the 'new-left'". The appeal of Bernie Sanders's political messages "really does leapfrog Generation X," he...
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Final decision in sport grant program recieved after election was called

A Senate inquiry has heard the final funding decisions from a controversial sports grant program were received by Sport Australia just minutes after last year's election was called. The email from the former sport minister Bridget McKenzie’s office was received at 8:46am on the morning of April 11 – despite the government going into caretaker mode just 16 minutes earlier. The communication outlined a “further updated copy” of the spreadsheet which identified projects to be approved in the final round of funding. Sport Australia Chief Operating Office Luke McCann told the senate inquiry he was not aware of the fact the government was in caretaker mode. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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$136 billion wiped off Aust stock exchange this week

The Australian share market has continued its downward slide on Thursday, as investors remain cautious as the coronavirus cases outside of China continue to rise. Sky News Business Reporter Edward Boyd said it was clear the spread of the virus was still "front of mind for a lot of Aussie investors". Mr Boyd said "global markets have started to stabilise a bit, so hopefully that'll come through to Australia soon". "The first three days of this week were a shocker for Australian shares," he said. "Our market lost six per cent in value, that's $136 billion wiped off the stock exchange. "The longer this virus goes on, the more of an effect it is going to have on Australian business." Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Thorpe raises Olympic coronavirus concern

Australian Olympic champion Ian Thorpe says he believes Coronavirus poses a real threat to athlete safety at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics. Japan has 700 confirmed cases of the virus, believed to have stemmed from the Diamond Princess cruise ship. Mr Thorpe said it was too early to understand the full impact of the virus but each athlete should be able to make their own decision as to whether they compete in Tokyo. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Rising Balonne River holds hope for drought-stricken Qld region

The Balonne River has risen to 12 metres following heavy rainfall in QLD, breaching the embankment and cutting the Andrew Nixon Bridge. The swollen river was a welcome sight to district residents following a long period of drought for cotton growers and barley and wheat producers. The E.J. Beardmore Dam is currently 90 per cent full and holds 12 months’ worth of water. The Balonne River is predicted to be at its highest on Thursday afternoon. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Govt made the ‘big and right call’ on coronavirus

The surplus may be in doubt, but Scott Morrison has made the “big and right” calls on the handling of the coronavirus, according to Sky News hosts Kieran Gilbert and Andrew Clennell. Mr Clennell said with every day it becomes “clear” the travel ban was the right measure to take, despite the significant hit to the economy. “I think we have to say Prime Minister Scott Morrison has had a torrid summer over his handling of fires and handing in a lot of political issues, but when it comes to the coronavirus, he has handled it very well indeed,” he said. “It’s clear from the infection in other countries that was very much the right decision, a big call and the right call”. Mr Gilbert said even his worst critics “would say they have [handled the coronavirus] well”. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Hunt’s coronavirus update: outbreaks in Italy, Austria and Switzerland

Supplied video obtained February 26, 2020 of the Health Minister Greg Hunt accompanied by the Chief Medical Officer, Brendan Murphy at a media briefing on the latest information regarding the coronavirus. "New cases have been reported in Austria, Switzerland, Croatia we have an unconfirmed report which we are seeking advice of Brazil being included and as a consequence of increase numbers in Italy where I think the latest figures are 323 cases and 10 lives lost," Mr Hunt says. Mr Hunt says the Australian has lifted the travel advisory to level 2. Travel advice has also been issued regarding Iran. (AAP Video/Supplied/Parlview) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY(AAP Video/Supplied/XXXX) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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CommSec: Mid-Session 26 Feb 20- Market sell-off continues on coronavirus outbreak fears

The sell-off continues for local shares on Wednesday with the ASX 200 shedding another 140 points or 2 per cent to 6726 at lunch and making it the third successive session of losses over 100 points. Global markets are tumbling on concerns of the coronavirus spreading outside of China. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Coronavirus fears wipe billions from Australian shares

The ASX is draped in red as coronavirus fears wipe tens of billions of dollars in value from Australian shares. Local stocks fell to a seven-week low as the market drop extended to 2.2 percent and benchmark ASX 200 was trading 137 points lower. Experts said the situation was not hopeless and drops could provide good buying opportunities in the right businesses. There are expectations the government will intervene and cut rates in March or April. Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Teal Ribbon Day ‘to remember those who have fought the ovarian cancer battle’

Liberal MP and ovarian cancer ambassador Katie Allen says ovarian cancer is “such an important issue” as it's “one of those cancers where there is no early detection”. Wednesday is teal Teal Ribbon Day which is marked "to remember those who have fought the ovarian cancer battle and lost it,". Ms Allen told Sky News “it is incredibly hard” in Australia because “there is no prevention, and we do not have a lot of great drugs”. “I am so delighted that the government has invested $20 million into ovarian cancer research,” she said. “We do know four women everyday are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and unfortunately only one will survive. “It’s so important because the symptoms are very non-specific… we really want to know how we can detect it earlier and change the statistics.” Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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PM meets with Israeli president

The president of Israel has met with Prime Minister Scott Morrison as part of a week-long visit to Australia. Reuven Rivlin is the first serving Israeli president to visit Australia in 15 years. Mr Morrison said the visit was an opportunity to build on a two-way trade between the two nations worth about $1.3 billion. The visit comes ahead of next week’s Israeli elections which will be the third round of polls in 12 months after the first two produced inconclusive results and caused a stalemate. Israel’s longest serving leader Benjamin Netanyahu is hoping to be re-elected as the prime minister. Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Burney and Aly say domestic violence is everybody’s business

February 26, 2020. Labor MP's Linda Burney and Anne Aly speak to the media in Canberra about domestic violence in the community. Burney who is the shadow minister for families and social services says "domestic violence has to be on the agenda all of the time and it is everybody's business". Dr Anne Aly urges the public to reach out if they know about anyone who is experiencing domestic violence and seek help. "Domestic violence comes in many forms," Ms Burney says "This is a pervasive issue.. that affects all Australians and no one can look away". (AAP Video/Marc Tewksbury) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Albanese’s emissions target announcement had no ‘facts and figures’

Political Journalist Jim Middleton says he was “perplexed” over the “timing” of Anthony Albanese’s emissions target announcement. The Opposition Leader announced Labor had committed to a zero net emissions target by 2050 and would be taking it to the next election. Mr Middleton told Sky News he was “also a bit perplexed at the time that there were no facts and figures attached to it, rather an aspirational goal and intention”. “Labor mucked this up so significantly during the last the last election campaign," he said. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Coronavirus to ‘significantly’ impact Aust economy

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has flagged the economic impact of the coronavirus will be “more significant” than the bushfires, amid growing speculation the promised budget surplus is all but gone. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, Prime Minister Scott Morrison was flanked by Mr Frydenberg, Health Minister Greg Hunt and Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy to discuss the impacts of the coronavirus. The prime minister was eager to promote the success of the government’s travel ban in preventing the spread of the virus in Australia, but was frank about the impact on the economy. When asked, Mr Frydenberg said Treasury was still finalising modelling on how the virus will affect the economy, but outlined it was now impacting on exports and the supply chain. “The message is very clear. The impact will be more significant than the bushfires, and it plays out more broadly across the Australian economy,” he said. On if the government will still achieve the promised budget surplus, Mr Morrison sto...
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RAW: Aerials show work on XPT wreckage

Supplied video obtained Tuesday, February 25, 2020 showing work continuing at Wallan to remove the XPT train that derailed north of Melbourne killing two people. The Australian Rail Track Corporation (ARTC) and Transport for NSW, which operates the XPT service, began clearing the crash site after investigators examined the scene on Saturday. (AAP Video/Supplied/Australian Rail Track Corporation) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Qld coroner delivers scathing findings into 2016 Dreamworld tragedy

Criminal charges could be laid against Dreamworld and its staff after the Queensland coroner delivered scathing findings into the 2016 tragedy that killed four people. Coroner James McDougall ruled it was only a matter of time before more people lost their lives following the deaths on the Thunder Rivers Rapid ride in 2016. In his findings, Mr McDougall described the Gold Coast theme park's safety practices as “irresponsible”, “dangerous” and “inadequate”. He said there had been a "systemic failure by Dreamworld in relation to all aspects of safety" and referred parent company Ardent Leisure for possible prosecution. "Whilst there were various occasions… hazard identification risk assessment should have been triggered… this was never done," he said. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Australia needs to get ‘used to’ the increased threat of foreign espionage

The Lowy Institute's Sam Roggeveen says Australia needs to get "used to" the threat of foreign espionage occurring at levels unseen since the Cold War. "The Cold War gives us some confidence even small and medium-sized countries like Australia can withstand the threat of foreign interference and espionage," Mr Roggeveen said. "The centre point of this US-China struggle is the Asia-Pacific... we're more important to China than we've ever been. "With the right resources and right kind of resolve from our politicians... we can deal with it." Mr Roggeveen said he believed "the reluctance" of politicians and government bodies to 'name and shame China' as a perpetrator of foreign interference was "related to the fact we have this overwhelming economic relationship" with the Asian superpower. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Morrison has faith in defence to deliver Attack class submarine project

February 25, 2020. The Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaks to the media in Canberra at a doorstop about the Attack class submarine program that is Australia's largest defence procurement to be completed as late as 2050. "Yes we've taken on ambitious projects..it has its risks and it has its challenges but I'm confident in the ability of our defence forces and our defence industry in Australia working with our partners to deliver the project," Mr Morrison says. (AAP Video/Marc Tewksbury) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Shoebridge says children made to squat in “unlawful” strip searches

February 24, 2020. Redfern Legal Centre’s police powers solicitor Sam Lee alongside NSW Greens MP David Shoebridge in Sydney says “invasive” strip searches were carried out by NSW Police at a minor’s only festival. “There were no parents or guardians allowed at this festival,” Ms Lee says. “There are huge concerns about why strip searches occurred… and whether a child of that age can consent to such searches and bodily procedures.” Mr Shoebridge says that based on communication from children involved in strip searches, “that in the course of those searches they were made to undertake the humiliating process of squatting”. “That is likely unlawful, indeed the entire process that the police undertook is likely unlawful and at the end of the day children will be psychologically damaged and its likely taxpayers will pay a legal bill,” Mr Shoebridge says. (AAP Video/Dominica Sanda) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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RAW: Authorities target ice shipments in mail system

Supplied video obtained Monday, February 24, 2020 of members of the Australian Federal Police analysing items sent through the mail system as part of a crackdown down on methamphetamine importations by drug syndicates. Authorities say syndicates using the postal system to import meth have been put on notice following a co-ordinated national operation last week. (AAP Video/Australian Border Force)(AAP Video/Supplied/XXXX) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Harvey Weinstein trial to resume

Jury deliberations in the trial of disgraced film producer Harvey Weinstein will soon resume in the US. The trial could be caught in a deadlock over two out of five charges that were brought against the disgraced movie mogul. Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Top tips for ‘achieving business growth’ revealed by industry leaders

Founder and Global CEO of Guzman Y Gomez Steven Marks has spoken with Sky News from NetSuite's SuiteConnect Sydney event, with the entrepreneur giving some top tips for achieving business growth for all entrepreneurs. Mr Marks said "thirteen or fourteen years ago Guzman Y Gomez was born in Newtown, now we've got 139 restaurants". Guzman Y Gomez is an Australian-licensed restaurant chain specialising on Mexican cuisine, which also employs thousands of people in the nation and abroad. "We're building another 20 restaurants this year," he said. Mr Marks spoke of the importance of just getting started, saying "you've got to start somewhere ... and that's the way it is, it's a grind". Other notable entrepreneurs also told Sky News, during the event, what they have done in their businesses in order to achieve success in the Australian market. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Indian-Pacific celebrates 50 years of coast to coast train travel

February 23, 2020. The 50th anniversary of Australia's longest rail journey, the Indian Pacific coast-to-coast crossing, is being marked with special surprises along the way for about 230 travellers. Luke Walker, chief operating officer of Indian Pacific operator Journey Beyond, told reporters at East Perth train station on Sunday February 23, 2020 that the company planned to expand the train from 29 carriages to 35. Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said the state government was looking into extending the service from East Perth train station to Fremantle to make the journey a truly ocean-to-ocean experience and boost the port city’s tourism. (AAP Video/By Rebecca Le May) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Man shot and killed by police in Brisbane’s CBD

A man has been shot and killed by police in Brisbane's CBD on Sunday. Witnesses say the man was armed with a knife when officers opened fire. Two crime scenes have been established near the Westin Hotel, while Mary and Edward streets have been closed in both directions. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Labor ‘reckless and irresponsible’ with net-zero emissions target

Finance Minister Mathias Cormann has branded Labor’s target of net-zero emissions by 2050 “reckless and irresponsible”. Mr Cormann told Sky News on Sunday “Australia is a net exporter of energy, and producing energy supplies in Australia for export generates emissions in Australia but can help reduce emissions by significantly more in other parts of the world where that energy is consumed”. When asked if the government had ruled out a zero net emissions target by 2050, Mr Cormann said “right now I’m not ruling anything in or anything out” as a “body of work” is needed to ensure climate policy commitments are “environmentally effective and economically responsible”. “We would never be as reckless and irresponsible as Anthony Albanese was on Friday copying the reckless and irresponsible approach by Bill Shorten in the lead up to the last election where he put forward targets without any costings, without any assessment of the impact on jobs on electricity prices and even without any asse...
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‘They died as heroes’ NSW RFS Commissioner commemorates fallen firefighters

NSW Rural Fire Service Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons has sent his condolences to the families of all the fallen heroes who lost their lives during the devastating summer of bushfires, making his address at the NSW State Memorial on Sunday. "Please accept my, and indeed all those of the extraordinary fire and emergency services team, that have so tirelessly and desperately tried to save everyone ... please accept our sincere condolences, thoughts and prayers during this most difficult of times". Mr Fitzsimmons spoke of the "pain and tragedy of loss," remembering those from the NSW RFS "family" who died while battling blazes in the state. "They died as heroes, selfless individuals paying the ultimate price while simply serving and protecting others in their local community and communities much further afield". Mr Fitzsimmons also paid respect to "our international friends" who "have themselves also seen tragedy," during the sta...
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Landmark ruling made on Arizona CBP holding centres

A US federal judge made a landmark ruling on a specific section on southern border customs that Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can no longer hold detainees for longer than 48 hours without providing basic human necessities. Migrants and advocacy groups called the holding conditions “inhumane” and an attorney for the Immigration Law Centre called the ruling a “tremendous victory”. The ruling handed down by district court judge David Bury is only applicable to CBP’s Tucson Arizona sector. Government lawyers argued the facilities in question are not subject to constitutional minimums in terms of treatment of detainees because they are processing facilities rather than detention centres. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Safety concerns over Boeing 737 Max aircraft

Boeing confirms reports of new safety concerns with its troubled 737 Max aircraft. Debris was found during maintenance work in at least of half of its undelivered jetliners at its factory. The company had previous issues with waste suspected to be left behind by workers in fuel tanks during production. Boeing is trying to regain public confidence after two of its aircraft crashed killing a combined 346 people. Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Quaden Bayles fundraiser soars past $300,000 following viral bullying video

More than $300,000 has been raised to send nine-year-old Quaden Bayles to Disneyland following an outpouring of support for the bullying victim. People from around the world rallied after seeing the heartbreaking video of the young Brisbane boy posted online by his mother. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Better health services ‘the key’ to reducing Indigenous child mortality

Australia needs to boost hospital and birthing facilities in rural and regional areas in order to overcome entrenched Indigenous health disadvantage, according to Rural Doctors Association of Australia CEO Peta Rutherford. On Wednesday, the prime minister released the 12th Closing the Gap report, which highlighted just two of the seven targets were on track to be met. The report revealed successive governments failed to meet health and jobs targets for Indigenous Australians but made improvements in education. Ms Rutherford told Sky News she is particularly concerned with successive government failure to halve Indigenous child mortality rates. "A lot of this is about access, it's around health literacy," she said. "It's also about the holistic care, it's also around education, housing and a whole range of other things". She said a problem doctors face is "an ongoing problem to maintain rural birthing services", which is having a direct impact o...
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AAT Kings launches bushfire giveback experiences

AAT Kings has launched a campaign to support communities affected by the devastating bushfires in New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia. The Travel company is collaborating with the Empty Esky movement and regional businesses to launch bushfire relief giveback experiences. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Virus spreads as fears weigh on markets

New cases of Covid-19 in China significantly dropped to 397 on Saturday according to figures by the National Health Commission, while South Korea saw infections more than double to 346 since the last count, according health authorities. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Russia would ‘clearly much prefer’ Sanders to Trump

Journalist and Author of ‘The Frozen Republic’ Daniel Lazare says Russia would “clearly much prefer a Bernie Sanders to a Donald Trump” as the US president. “Donald Trump has been quite tough on Russia, whereas Sanders would clearly push for a new, more equitable relationship with Moscow,” Mr Lazare told Sky News. “I think that’s what Moscow wants," he said. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump dismissed reports that Russia was interfering in the 2020 campaign to help him win a second term. “Another misinformation campaign is being launched by Democrats in Congress saying that Russia prefers me to any of the Do Nothing Democrat candidates who still have been unable to, after two weeks, count their votes in Iowa,” Mr. Trump wrote on Twitter. Mr Lazare also said he has seen “no evidence of Russian involvement” in the 2020 election campaign. Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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‘Too often the penalties don’t reflect seriousness of crime’

Sky News host Rita Panahi says “anyone who is capable of committing such a heinous crime has no business having access to children, let alone shared custody” in the wake of the Camp Hill murders. “We know the risk of deadly violence is heightened when a woman lives in an abusive relationship, we must do everything possible to protect at risk women and children who have taken the vital first step in escaping the cycle of domestic violence,” Ms Panahi said. “We need the courts to punish those guilty of threats, harassment, breaches of domestic violence orders and other acts of intimidation and violence”. “Too often the penalties do not reflect the seriousness of the crime.” Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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‘Justice has been done for Robert’: NZ man jailed over cold case killing

February 21, 2020. Vilija Sabeckis, the niece of murder victim Robert Sabeckis, speaks outside Adelaide’s Supreme Court after his killer was jailed for six years. “No amount of time the offender spends in prison will bring Robert back, but we can take some comfort that this ordeal is finally over,” Ms Sabeckis says. New Zealand man Paul Maroroa admitted fatally shooting Mr Sabeckis in January 2000 after a struggle over a gun but argued that he acted in self-defence. A jury found the 45-year-old not guilty of murder but guilty of manslaughter. (AAP Video/Tim Dornin) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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German shooting, which left nine dead, ‘an act of terrorism’

The gunman who killed nine people in a shisha bar and a cafe in Germany had a xenophobic motive, police say. Police in Hanau found Tobias R, 43, dead in his flat, along with the body of his 72-year-old mother who also had gunshot wounds. The attack is being treated as an act of domestic terrorism. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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“Surprised” Vic train crash didn’t kill more, still missing persons

February 21, 2020. Acting Inspector Peter Fusinato talks to media after a Sydney to Melbourne XPT diesel locomotive and five carriages came off tracks near Wallan Station, killing a train driver and a train pilot. Fusinato says after inspecting the sight he is "surprised" there were not more serious injuries. He says under 20 people are still unaccounted for and asks those who self-evacuated the train and are now missing to contact crime stoppers and register their details so they can be marked off. (AAP Video/ Karen Sweeney) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Iran election result could be ‘problematic’ for US relations

National Iranian American Council Founder Trita Parsi says the expected victory from Iranian hardliners “will likely see relations between Washington and Tehran deteriorate even further”. Iranians head to the polls on Friday where it is expected hardliners led by President Hassan Rouhani will defeat reformists after Washington withdrew from a landmark nuclear deal and imposed sanctions that crippled the Iranian economy. Mr Parsi told Sky News “we are seeing the political spectrum moving to the right and becoming narrower” which is “undoubtedly a result of the economic warfare campaign that Donald Trump has been pursuing after he breached a nuclear deal”. He said “mismanagement and corruption” within Iran were “significant reason as to why the Iranian economy never fully lifts off” but “the impact that we are seeing today is clearly as a result of the sanctions”. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Bloomberg ‘has no right to buy this election’: Bernie Sanders

Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg is gearing up for his first on-stage appearance as Democratic Presidential candidates prepare for their final debate before of the Nevada caucuses. Mr Bloomberg's competitors say the billionaire, through his self-funded campaign, has bought his way into the debate. Front-running Democrat Bernie Sanders said he believed Mr Bloomberg has "every right in the world to run for president of the United States ... but I don't think he has the right to buy this election". Held in Las Vegas, the debate will put the billionaire against other candidates who have been campaigning for months. Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Ex-NSW Labor leader Luke Foley attends court

February 20, 2020. Ex-NSW Labor leader Luke Foley attends the NSW Supreme Court in Sydney to give evidence at the conspiracy trial of Labor powerbroker Eddie Obeid. Obeid, 76, his 50-year-old son Moses, and former NSW ministerial colleague Ian Macdonald, 70, have pleaded not guilty over an alleged coal mining conspiracy between 2007 and 2009. (AAP Video/ Greta Stonehouse) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Mogo Wildlife Park ‘rejuvenated’ and opening doors after ‘extensive’ fire damage

The director of Mogo Wildlife Park is urging people to visit the zoo as it prepares to re-open its doors on March 1 after suffering “extensive damage” during the bushfire season. Zoo director Chad Staples told Sky News people should “definitely put it on your list.” “It’s still very beautiful, and now that we’ve had this bit of rain, we are getting that rejuvenation again," he said. Mr Staples thanked his zoo keepers who were able to defend the site, but unfortunately about 80 per cent of the fenceline was completely burned to the ground. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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“It wasn’t pretty”: Flashbacks for Steve Smith after arriving in South Africa

Supplied video obtained Thursday, February 20, 2020 of batsman Steve Smith speaking to reporters in Johannesburg ahead of his side's T20 clash with South Africa. Smith admits to flashbacks returning to the team hotel where he was handed a 12-month ball-tampering ban. "Probably just walking into the hotel, just initially I was like 'last time I was here, it wasn't pretty'," Smith says. "It wasn't the best time in my life. But I've moved on from that, learned a lot over the last two years and I'm moving forward... it's good to be back here playing and I'm looking forward to this series." (AAP Video/Supplied/Cricket Australia)(AAP Video/Supplied/XXXX) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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‘Sky’s not the limit’ for Australian Space Agency: PM

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has declared Australia’s space industry will create 20,000 jobs as he looks to the stars at its economic potential which his “growing faster than the global economy”. “The sky’s not the limit; it’s bigger than that,” Mr Morrison said speaking at the official launch of the Australian Space Agency in Adelaide. “We’ve put $600 million into developing the space industry here. “Space captures the imagination and inspires us all. It develops new technologies that improve life on Earth and it offers huge economic and job opportunities.” Science Minister Karen Andrews said “the Morrison Government is investing heavily in providing opportunity to Australians”. “We’ve set the goal of tripling the size of the sector in Australia to $12 billion and adding an extra 20,000 jobs by 2030.” Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Headmaster resigns after giving convicted child sex offender a ‘character reference’

The Melbourne headmaster who provided a character reference for a convicted child sex offender who preyed on one of his students has today resigned. St Kevin's headmaster Stephen Russell released a statement last night saying he “regrets” ever submitting the reference after the revelations aired on Four Corners on Monday night. He stood down from his posting as headmaster this morning. Mr Russell wrote a resignation letter Edmund Rice Education Australia – which runs St Kevin’s school – saying “always tried to put the school before self and the students' wellbeing at the very top of my list of priorities”. “I have a deep and abiding passion for this school community and am very grateful for the 24 years of nurturing I and my family have received,” he wrote. “I extend my best wishes and encouragement to the current student body to be ‘good people’, the way so many who went before them have been across the decades.” “I believe the current situation means that the best way to achi...
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Aust passengers on quarantined cruise ship refuse evacuation offer

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has confirmed 15 Australian passengers on board the quarantined Diamond Princess cruise ship have refused an offer to be flown home. Mr Morrison said the refusal was largely because they wanted to remain with family members who contracted coronavirus and were taken to Japanese medical facilities. Preparations to evacuate about 170 Australians stranded on the cruise ship in Japan are underway as it was revealed another 88 coronavirus cases were confirmed overnight. The Qantas evacuation flight is expected to arrive in Darwin around 8:30 on Thursday morning where the passengers will be taken to Howard Springs workers’ accommodation village for a 14 day quarantine period. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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VIC voluntary assisted dying laws in operation

Victoria’s new assisted dying laws have so far administered 81 permits to state residents and 52 people have died after accessing prescribed medication. A second report from the Voluntary Assisted Dying Review Board was tabled in parliament on Wednesday where State Health Minister Jenny Mikakos said there was a high demand in the state for voluntary assisted dying. Training to assess patients is currently being completed by 370 doctors. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Internal review to be released on police failures in Bourke St massacre

An internal review on police failures leading up to the Bourke Street massacre in 2017 will be made public. James Gargasoulas was convicted for the Melbourne attack that killed 6 people and injured 27 others. Despite police efforts to suppress the report, the coroner announced it would be released in full after families of victims from the deadly rampage fought to have it made public. The document contained criticisms of the way police handled Mr Gargasoulas and reported they failed to monitor him after he was released on bail days before the attack. Image: David Caird/News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Police speak after children, man killed in Brisbane car fire

February 19,2020. Detective Inspector Mark Thompson tells media in Brisbane three children and a man have died in a car fire on a street in Brisbane's east. Thompson confirms the adult man was known to the children, and says another person is being treated for critical burns. (AAP Video/ Nicholas McElroy) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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AOC boss ‘satisfied’ Tokyo safe from coronavirus

February 19, 2020. Australian Olympic boss John Coates tells media in Sydney athletes and spectators will be safe to attend the Tokyo Games amid the coronavirus outbreak in China. Coates said he was briefed in Tokyo last week and the World Health Organisation confirmed "there was no case for postponing, cancelling the Games at all ... provided that all of the requirements of all of the Japanese authority on people coming into the Games are followed." (AAP Video/ Greta Stonehouse) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Luxury car tax to stay as Holden falls

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg is standing firm, resisting pressure from colleagues to phase out the government's luxury car tax - imposed on imported vehicles valued above $67,000. A group of Liberal MPs have been publicly making the case to the treasurer, in the wake of Holden’s demise. Liberal Senator James Paterson told Sky News it should be “the ambition over the medium term, when the budget is hopefully in a stronger state, that we can remove these taxes and deliver cheaper cars and a better choice for Australians”. The tax was implemented by the Howard government as a way of propping up the domestic automotive industry. The tax generated more than $670 million annually to the budget bottom line. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Flights Disrupted Across Australia as Jetstar Staff Strike for 24 Hours Over Working Conditions

Almost 50 Australian domestic flights were cancelled as Jetstar staff went on a 24-hour strike on February 19 over working conditions. Jetstar offered refunds for any domestic flights that were scheduled to depart on February 19. “To minimise the disruption caused by the TWU action, it has been necessary to proactively cancel some of our domestic flights in Australia,” Jetstar said in an online post. Strikes were due to take place in airports across Australia over an enterprise bargaining deal rejected by the Transport Workers Union (TWU). The union claims the deal is worse than the deal currently in place. “While Jetstar makes $4 billion in revenue, workers are forced onto part-time, insecure work leaving some struggling on as low as $429 a week,” the TWU said in an online post about the strike. After eight months, Jetstar is still refusing workers’ reasonable claims such as more hours, stable rosters, and job security for employees rather than bringing in untrained, exploited labour ...
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‘St. Elmo’s Fire’ Weather Phenomenon Captured From NOAA Plane

The crew of the NOAA 42 Kermit captured St. Elmo’s fire, a weather phenomenon, while flying over the North Atlantic on February 15. The phenomenon, also known as a corona discharge, is “commonly observed on the periphery of propellers and along the wing tips, windshield, and nose of aircraft flying in dry snow, in ice crystals, or near thunderstorms,” according to the Encyclopedia Britannica. Credit: Lt. Josh Rannenberg, NOAA Corps via Storyful Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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“Jobs in space” says PM as he launches the Australian Space Agency

February 19, 2020. The Prime Minister Scott Morrison launches the new Australian Space Agency in Adelaide this morning where Lot Fourteen will become the home of space technology and development. Mr Morrison says 20,000 jobs will be created through the agency. "This is an industry that's generating good wage jobs," Mr Morrison says. He mentions Australia's collaboration with NASA and the moon to mars mission. "At the end of the day, as exciting as space is, it's about jobs in space that really matters," Mr Morrison contends. (AAP Video/Kathryn Bermingham) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Barry O’Farrell appointed as Australian High Commissioner to India

Barry O'Farrell has been appointed as Australia’s next High Commissioner to India. The former NSW Liberal Premier replaces Harinder Sidhu, who has held the post since February 2016. Mr O'Farrell will be charged with strengthening ties with India, which is one of Australia's most important strategic and trading partners. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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‘Draconian measures’ in place across China as coronavirus death toll rises

CNN Reporter Steven Jiang says “it is not surprising medical workers have borne the brunt of the coronavirus outbreak” after reports emerged that one of the head medical officers in Wuhan has succumbed to the virus. China’s National Health Commissioner announced on Tuesday that the coronavirus death toll rose to 1,868 people, and of the 98 new deaths, 93 were reported in Wuhan. Mr Jiang told Sky News the “number could be even higher as this outbreak shows no sign of abating, especially in the epicentre” where “people are basically confined to their homes 24/7”. He said “increasingly draconian measures being put in place across the nation” to safeguard against the spread of the virus but “things are still evolving very fast". “Even after the rest of the country sent in more than 25,000 medical workers, they are still saying they face a severe shortage of medical supplies, personnel, as well as facilities," he said. Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://w...
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Govt to push for 2050 climate tech target

The Australian government will look at implementing a technology investment target to avoid committing to an internationally imposed net-zero emissions target by 2050. The government said the new target would be the most effective way for the nation to meet the Paris commitment. Nationals MPs are against Australia's commitment to the target over fears it would impact manufacturing jobs. The new plan will be presented at the UN Climate Summit in Glasgow, Scotland. About 81 countries have so far adopted the internationally imposed 2050 zero emissions target. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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The 30min food detour you won’t regret

Welcome to Don’t Delay Your Stay, news.com.au’s campaign to support communities hard hit by this summer’s devastating bushfires. Many of these regions rely on tourism so one of the best ways to help is to visit and spend time in some of the most beautiful parts of our great country. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Aussie pub’s epic chicken schnitzel

Welcome to Don’t Delay Your Stay, news.com.au’s campaign to support communities hard hit by this summer’s devastating bushfires. Many of these regions rely on tourism so one of the best ways to help is to visit and spend time in some of the most beautiful parts of our great country. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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This tiny Aussie town’s pie is a sell-out

Welcome to Don’t Delay Your Stay, news.com.au’s campaign to support communities hard hit by this summer’s devastating bushfires. Many of these regions rely on tourism so one of the best ways to help is to visit and spend time in some of the most beautiful parts of our great country. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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World’s richest man Jeff Bezos commits $15 billion to climate crusade

Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos has committed a fraction of his extraordinary wealth to a crusade against climate change — which he describes as the “biggest threat to our planet” — despite leading the emissions-heavy company that delivers billions of packages globally each year. The world's richest man made the pledge on Instagram where he announced the launch of the Bezos Earth Fund. Beginning from summer in the northern hemisphere, Mr Bezos said the fund will finance scientists, activists, NGOs and “any effort that offers a real possibility to help preserve and protect the natural world”. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Massive Dust Storm Bears Down on Lightning Ridge in North-West New South Wales

Wild winds whipped up a massive dust storm in remote north-west New South Wales, prompting the weather bureau to warn locals of damaging gusts on February 17. Dust clouds can be seen blowing through bushland near Lightning Ridge in a video posted to Facebook by Scott Fojjo. “Came up to photograph a lightning storm. It ended up generating a fast moving dust storm. Now we are getting absolutely flogged with rain, dust and lightning at the same time. Absolutely crazy!” Fojjo said in a Facebook post. Dust storms are created when winds dislodge dust particles from the surface and unstable atmospheric conditions, such as a cold front or a trough, cause the particles to be lifted to high levels. Dust storms are more frequent during dry periods and Lightning Ridge is considered to be in drought by the state’s Department of Primary Industries. Credit: Scott Fojjo via Storyful Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Alleged armed robbery at hotel in Rockhampton

Supplied video obtained February 18, 2020 of CCTV footage of an alleged armed robbery of a hotel at Berserker, Rockhampton last night. Three armed men entered hotel and allegedly threatened a 22-year-old female staff member. A man, who was armed with a knife, allegedly reached over the counter and stole a sum of money before all three fled the scene on foot along Water Street.(AAP Video/Queensland Police Service)NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Corroboree frog population survives bushfires

Supplied video obtained Tuesday, February 18, 2020 about the survival of the Southern corroboree frog through recent bushfires in parts of the Kosciusko National Park. Taronga’s Michael McFadden says up to 40 per cent of the frog population in enclosure sites survived the January bushfires. The enclosures are a vital component to the Southern corroboree frog recovery program, providing a disease-free habitat for the critically endangered species. (AAP Video/Supplied/Taronga Conservation Society) NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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SuperCoach NRL Draft 101: How to win at the Draft

The NRL season is almost here SuperCoaches! By now you all should have created your leagues and be busy hassling your mates to hurry up and sign up in time for Draft Day! This is one of the most important days of the SuperCoach year, but if you don’t know what you’re doing it can also be very stressful. While you don’t win or lose your KFC SuperCoach league at the draft, it does lay the foundation for the rest of your year, so it’s important to get it right! Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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‘Very concerning information’ leaked about the detainment of Uighur Muslims

The US Studies Centre Non-resident Fellow James Brown says “there is no doubt in the international community about what the Chinese communist party is trying to achieve in Xinjiang" by detaining Uighur Muslims. Beijing officials denied human rights abuse claims and said they were combatting religious extremism after a leaked document provided insight into a Beijing internment camp where more than 3,000 Uighur Muslims are being held. Mr Brown told Sky News some of the incidents that brought the prisoners “into contact with the authorities” were “extraordinarily minor”. He said the leaked document revealed “very concerning information” but “we still have this cognitive dissonance when we think about China we seem to sort of suspend the political repression” and tend to “focus on the positive aspects". “We have got to be able to hold both at the same time and make informed decisions about how to deal with the Chinese government but also the Chinese people too," he said. Ima...
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RFS denies sacking firefighter over expletive-laden rant at Morrison

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has thrown his support behind a firefighter who criticised him at the height of the bushfire crisis. Paul Parker claimed he was removed from duty after he was filmed launching an expletive-laden rant at the prime minister, accusing him of poorly handling the disaster. Mr Morrison said on Monday the firefighter had his full support, adding “I understand Paul was feeling incredibly exhausted and drained and he was working his tail off defending his community”. The NSW Rural Fire Service confirmed Mr Parker was not dismissed from his duties over the January 25 comments. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Summer was a ‘bit of a pile-on but I’ve got a job to do’: Morrison

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has brushed aside criticism of his handling of the bushfire crisis, saying “a lot of things were misrepresented” over the fire season. “There was a bit of a pile-on, but I’ve got thick skin, and I’ve got work to do, I've got a job to do, we’re going to rebuild these bushfire-affected areas,” he told reporters on Monday. The prime minister insisted the government was working hard to get fire-ravaged towns up and running again after AMP Capital's Chief Economist Shane Oliver warned regional towns faced a possible mass exodus after the fires. “We have a $2 billion rebuild plan,” Mr Morrison said. “It’s put tens of millions of dollars into local councils to restore vital infrastructure, it’s ensured that we’re investing in wildlife recovery in these areas, it includes $75,000 grants to primary producers.” Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Concerns over 5G rollout ‘informed by an outpouring of misinformation’

Nationals MP David Gillespie says the government is “focusing on the deployment and adaption of 5G” and has ensured the network is “incredibly safe”. A parliamentary committee was established in response to public distress over the safety levels of the new 5G rollout. Mr Gillespie told Sky News many of the concerns were “informed by an outpouring of misinformation” that was “circulating on an international scale to confuse people”. He said there was “a lot of confusion in these people's minds about radiation” but they should be reassured because the radio-frequency levels deployed by 5G were “directed much more discreetly to the individual hand pieces” and not in a concerning “scatter gun” manner. Mr Gillespie said the committee would not be addressing concerns about Huawei’s involvement in the network and was concentrating on relaying its “benefits” and reassuring public over “radiation” concerns. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.ne...
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