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Showing posts from March, 2020

Melbourne restaurant fined for breaching shutdown orders.

A Melbourne business has become the first in Victoria to be fined almost $10,000 for breaching shutdown orders. The Fitzroy restaurant was operating as if business as usual on Saturday evening. Police say at least six staff were serving at least two customers in-store, in contravention of national gatherings guidelines. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Virus claims fifth life from Dorothy Henderson Lodge

A 95-year-old woman has become the fifth resident at the Dorothy Henderson Lodge in Sydney’s north west to die after contracting the coronavirus. The aged care facility has been a virus hotspot since the crisis began in NSW with a number of cases confirmed among residents after a worker was diagnosed with the disease several weeks ago. The latest death takes the state’s death toll to nine and the nation’s toll to 20. Health authorities are conducting contact-tracing for anyone exposed to people recently diagnosed with the virus. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Will I be fined for visiting my partner?

Australia’s rules around social distancing amid the COVID-19 crisis have been pretty clear surrounding couples and families that live under the same roof. But what about those who live separately to their loved ones? Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Govt not ‘messing around’ amid seafood export crisis

A federal government mission to restart Australia’s stalled seafood export trade will begin today, as the government injects $110 million into recommencing shipments overseas. The seafood industry has taken a major hit due to the travel bans put in place by key global markets. Former Linfox chief Michael Byrne will be appointed to lead the effort which will look at how freight flights can operate in the heavily restricted global market. Agriculture Minister David Littleproud told reporters the government “was not going to mess around” on seafood trade. "We're not going to mess around with this. This is about making sure there is continuity, not only for our Australian agricultural sector but supply chains around the world, proving that Australian agriculture is the best but also one of the most reliable in the world,” he said. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Fonterra Feb milk exports from NZ drop 6%

Fonterra says its New Zealand milk exports in February fell 6.1 per cent and it will ramp up ethanol production to help sanitiser manufacturers cope with a surge in demand caused by the coronavirus outbreak. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Intensive care gets ‘biggest expansion in history’ with $1.3bn funding

The Victorian government has announced $1.3 billion to fund the “biggest expansion” of the state’s intensive care capacity in history, adding 4000 beds to the existing 500. “Essentially, what this package will pay for is firstly some capital funding there to create new spaces for intensive care beds at the Alfred, at Monash and at Austin Hospital,” Victorian Health Minister Jenny Mikakos. “In addition to that, the vast bulk of this funding is actually for the consumables and the equipment and the personal protective equipment that will be needed as we go forward. “So $1.2 billion of this $1.3 billion package is to actually upgrade existing acute beds and to effectively turn them into intensive care beds.” Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Empire State Building Lights Up to Honour Emergency Services During Coronavirus Pandemic

Lights on the Empire State Building flashed like an ambulance siren in honour of emergency services workers during the coronavirus pandemic as the hospitals across the city battled an outbreak of cases. “We’ll never stop shining for you. Starting tonight through the COVID-19 battle, our signature white lights will be replaced by the heartbeat of America with a white and red siren in the mast for heroic emergency workers on the front line of the fight,” read a post on the Empire State Building’s official Twitter page. There were 66,497 confirmed cases of coronavirus in the state of New York on March 30, of which 37,453were in New York City according to health officials. Credit: Paul Bernasconi via Storyful Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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AFL star welcomes bundle of joy

The world might be in a crazy time right now, but despite the bad news there is still plenty of joy going on around the country as Geelong star Gary Rohan found out on Tuesday. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Private and public hospitals merge in $1.3 billion deal to expand capacity

Health Minister Greg Hunt has confirmed the government has struck a deal with the nation’s private hospitals, — expanding the nation’s bed capacity to 34,000. The $1.3 billion deal integrates the public and private health sectors to respond to the coronavirus and will open up access to private hospital staffing and critical equipment such as ventilators. Mr Hunt said the deal would assist Australia to be as prepared it as it could be to fight the coronavirus outbreak. He said Australia is the “best-prepared country in the world that has seen significant outbreak”. "In terms of the capacity, it means over 34,000 beds and chairs that will be made available to the public hospital system,” he said. "Over 105,000 full-time and part-time staff, including over 57,000 full-time and part-time nursing staff." Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Qld Police close down drug ring centred in Mackay

Supplied video obtained March 31, 2020 of Queensland police detective Tim Heller describes how police in Mackay closed a major investigation, seizing drugs, cash, guns and luxury cars. The alleged heads of the drug syndicate were all arrested and charged with drug trafficking along with a series of other related offences. (AAP Video/Supplied/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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Moscow enters lockdown

Moscow has officially been placed under lockdown, restricting 12.5 million residents to their homes as officials try to slow the spread of the coronavirus. The country recorded 270 new infections in 24 hours, taking the total number of confirmed cases to 1,500. Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Health professionals warn ICU beds are a ‘finite resource’

Australian College of Critical Care Nurses President Alison Hodak says intensive care beds are a "finite resource” and the public should comply with government restrictions to show support for health care workers. Ms Hodak told Sky News adhering to social gathering bans was what “nurses really need the public to do so that we can help them in the hospitals and have the space in the hospitals if they need us”. She said a spike in the number of infections was “something that we absolutely need to prepare for" amid concerns Australia could follow the path of Italy - where hospitals have been overwhelmed by the number of COVID-19 cases. The ACCCN president said hospitals across the country were looking to source more nurses to work in intensive care units as an increase in the number of serious cases was expected. Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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“Every one of us has a role to play in winning this war”: Trump

Supplied video obtained Tuesday, March 31, 2020, of US President Donald Trump speaking at a press briefing with members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Washington. Trump says everyone has a role to play in winning the war against COVID-19. "Every citizen, family, and business can make the difference in stopping the virus," he says. "This is our shared patriotic duty. "Challenging times are ahead for the next 30 days, and this is a very vital 30 days. "The more we dedicate ourselves today the more quickly we will emerge on the other side of the crisis." (AAP VIDEO/Supplied/The White House) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Wage guarantee to be ‘one of the most consequential decisions in modern history’

The Morrison's forthcoming wage guarantee will be critical in ensuring unemployment does not spiral to 20 per cent during the coronavirus pandemic, according to Sky News Political editor Andrew Clennell. Workers cast out by the coronavirus crisis are expected to receive some relief as the government finalises the details of a wage subsidy package set to be announced on Monday. Sky News Political Editor Andrew Clennell said Treasury was modelling advice to the government off of similar schemes in New Zealand and the Netherlands. He said the decision to subsidise workers in order to keep them connected with their workplaces is one the "most important decisions" taken by the Morrison government during this pandemic. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Prize money slashed in half

Horse Racing: Australian racing will come under more pressure as an announcement to slash prize money to consolidate the impact of the coronavirus has been announced. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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NZ corononavirus cases continue steady rise

Supplied video obtained Monday, March 30, 2020, of Dr Ashley Bloomfield, Director-General of Health, with an update on COVID-19 at parliament in Wellington, NZ.  Mr Bloomfield says there are 76 new cases of COVID-19 in New Zealand. "In summary, the combined total of confirmed and probable cases in New Zealand today is 589, 75 more than yesterday," he says. "63 people have recovered from COVID-19." "Today we have 12 people in hospital with COVID-19 infection, three of these people are expected to be discharged soon." (AAP VIDEO/Supplied/Ministry of Health) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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If there was a Warren Buffett of Australia, it would be Robert Millner

Veteran investor Robert Millner, who chairs both investment businesses Soul Pattinson and Brickworks, has spoken about interim results, portfolio resilience in the current crisis and whether businesses should continue operating amid COVID-19. Steph Nash sat down with Robert Millner in Sydney. Image: news Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Jim Rickards is one of the great ‘Cassandras’ of our day

Financial advisor, commentator and author of books like Aftermath, Currency Wars and the Road to Ruin, and with a Twitter following of over 130,000, Jim Rickards has been warning of the day markets seize up, in a new different crisis. He spoke to Ticky Fullerton from New England where he is holed up with family and was asked what he made of the US government's massive $2 trillion stimulus. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Mental Health commission welcomes $74 million support package

March 29, 2020. Christine Morgan, CEO of the National Mental Health Commission speaks to the media in Canberra about the government's new announcement of $1.1.billion health package which includes $74 million for mental health support and $150 into domestic violence programs. "Today's package reflects the importance of trying to prevent mental un-wellness, but also to ensure we provide treatment for any who need it," Ms Morgan says. In referring to an increase in domestic violence she says "Home is not always safe..it's incredibly important that being physically distant, we nevertheless remain very connected." AAP Video/Marc Tewksbury) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Australian COVID-19 death toll rises to 16

The Australian COVID-19 death toll has risen to 16 after deaths in Queensland and Victoria overnight. A 75-year-old woman, who was a passenger on the Ruby Princess cruise ship, died at Caboolture hospital in Brisbane. In Victoria, a man in his 80s died in hospital while being treated for the virus. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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PM expands coronavirus campaign to WhatsApp

Australians will now have access to a new messaging service which will provide individuals with updates on the measures put in place by governments to curb the spread of COVID-19. From today, individuals will be able to sign up to a new WhatsApp feature designed to provide updates on health advice and timely information on coronavirus. Prime Minister Scott Morrison also announced a new government app, the Coronavirus App, to provide easy access to resources for Australians. Mr Morrison on Sunday urged the public to get involved and sign up for the initiatives. “You will get access to a new messaging service which enables us to talk to more and more messaging services which enables us to talk to Australians in terms of basic health advice, updates on the measures that are being put in place by state and federal governments, and that will assist you to get to be accurate and timely information about what is being done by governments around the country to support you,” he said. Via news.c
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Community encouraged to practice kindness and remember those in isolation

Beyond Blue’s lead clinical advisor Dr Grant Blashki is encouraging the community to reach out and contact those who are in isolation during the coronavirus outbreak and reminding people to practice kindness throughout this period. The national mental health organization has developed online resources to help people cope with COVID-19 after a surge in the number of phone calls, with the website receiving more than 2,000 visitors per day. Mr Blashki said it was important for people to be prepare a measured response and be patient as the circumstances were expected to last for an extended period. Anyone who may be feeling distressed can contact the following organisations for support. Beyond blue 1300 22 4636 SANE Helpline 1800 18 72 63 Lifeline 131 114 Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Victoria records spike in virus cases as Premier Andrews invokes strong isolation laws

Victoria has recorded a significant spike in confirmed coronavirus cases taking the state's total to 685. Strict new measures will be enforced from midnight tonight with all travellers landing in Victoria forced into a 2-week quarantine. Anyone defying isolation orders faces an on-the-spot fine of up to $1,600 for individuals and almost $10,000 for businesses. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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US virus cases exceed 100k-supplies needed

Doctors and nurses on the front lines of the US coronavirus crisis are pleading for more protective gear and equipment to treat waves of patients, as the number of known US infections surpassed 100,000, with more than 1,600 dead. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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COVID-19 death toll rises to 14 as 91-year-old aged care resident dies

A 91-year-old woman is the latest person to die from COVID-19 after an outbreak at an aged care facility in Sydney's north west. Baptist-Care said she was taken to hospital earlier this week after testing positive for the virus. A total of 13 residents and five employees have been diagnosed at Dorothy Henderson Lodge in Macquarie Park. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Four cruise passengers die off Panama

Four passengers have died on a cruise ship off the Pacific coast of Panama with more than 130 others aboard suffering from influenza-like symptoms, at least two of whom have coronavirus, the vessel's operator said on Friday. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Jacinda Ardern calls for Kiwis in Australia to receive welfare benefits

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has renewed her call for Kiwis in Australia to receive welfare benefits during the COVID-19 crisis. The prime minister wants the Morrison Government to grant a short-term exemption given the "extraordinary circumstances". Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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WHO warns young people again to take COVID-19 seriously

The World Health Organisation has again advised young people to take the coronavirus seriously. More than half a million people worldwide have contracted the virus and the death toll stands at over 25,000. The young are being reminded they're not immune and should listen to government regulations. In Australia the majority of female patients are aged between 20 and 29 while the majority of male patients are aged in their 60s. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Self-isolating Australians are saving lives and livelihoods: PM

The prime minister thanked the public for adhering to strict social distancing measures after revealing movement around Sydney and Melbourne has dropped by 80 per cent over the past weekend. Many non-essential businesses, including pubs, restaurants, auction houses, Beauty therapy, tanning and waxing, spa centres, massage parlours, amusement parks among others have been closed to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19. Australians have been encouraged to stay at home unless they are going to buy essential goods and services. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said by and large, Australians have complied with the government's message. "I can assure you I would rather be in Australia now with the way we are dealing with this together than any other country in the world today," he said. He said due to the public's compliance to social distancing measures, the national cabinet could target the area of most concern: overseas travellers. "The reason we can focus
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G20 video conference ‘doesn’t change dynamics’ of behind the scenes deals

Former Pentagon advisor Jason Israel says “unfortunately” the G20 video conference “doesn’t change the dynamics” of what goes on behind the scenes. “Unlike a normal G20 conference which would be two days and have a lot of in-person side meetings where most of the actual work gets done, this was a 90-minute video teleconference,” Mr Israel told Sky News. “You’ve already seen President Trump is going back and forth between saying he will work with President Xi but also sending signals they’re blaming China for misinformation.” Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Puppies From Atlanta Humane Society Visit Georgia Aquarium During Coronavirus-Forced Closure

Adoptable puppies from the Atlanta Humane Society visited the Georgia Aquarium on Thursday, March 26, while it was closed due to the new coronavirus, COVID-19, pandemic. “No ruff days here, just a couple of cute puppers from @AtlantaHumane exploring our Ocean Voyager habitat,” a tweet from the aquarium said. The puppies can be seen in the video checking out the exhibit, and some were caught resting overlooking a shark tank. The aquarium announced on Facebook that it would be closed to the public on March 19. Credit: Georgia Aquarium via Storyful Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Justin Langer finds some positives amid coronavirus outbreak

Supplied video obtained Thursday, March 26, 2020, of Australian Men's Team Head Coach Justin Langer answering questions on a video call with reporters. Langer says his side is looking forward to refreshing and resetting on their planned six week break before preparing for when international cricket resumes. "We identified in South Africa a number our players were physically and mentally exhausted," he says. "The point is it gives them a really good opportunity to recharge and we're obviously looking at scenarios moving forward to make sure we'll be ready for whatever comes up." (AAP VIDEO/Supplied/Cricket Australia) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Six easy steps to a debt-savvy household

While many debt-stressed Australians would welcome a magic wand right now to eliminate the woes of COVID-19, the good news is there are practical steps you can take to build a financial fortress for your family. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Virgin redundancies to top 1000: CEO

Virgin Australia boss Paul Scurrah says more than 1,000 of the workers it has stood down this week will probably be made redundant as the airline grounds planes during the coronavirus pandemic. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Qld schools close for non-essential children

Schools in Queensland will be closed for all children whose parents are not essential workers as Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk ramps up drastic social distancing measures. Ms Palaszczuk said the radical coronavirus response would begin next week but maintained anyone who held a job was defined as essential and would be able to send their children. “From Monday the 30th of March, we will be moving to student free days, but we do stress that schools will remain open for children of essential workers, that is those who are required in the workplace,” she said. “It is vital we remain open for these workers because we don’t want to put pressure on the economy.” Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Cops release CCTV after alleged Haymarket glassing

Supplied video obtained Thursday, March 26, 2020 and released by police following an alleged assault in Haymarket on February 27. Police are hoping the man pictured in the video can assist with their enquiries. (AAP Video/Supplied/NSW Police NO ARCHIVING, EDITORIAL USE ONLY Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Government should be prepared for ‘unprecedented demand’ on welfare services

The Australian Institute Deputy Director Ebony Bennett says the government’s response to the coronavirus pandemic “is going to need to be much bigger, much quicker than I think we are seeing at the moment”. Thousands of recently unemployed workers have queued outside Centrelink offices across New South Wales and Victoria as businesses continue to close their doors as government restrictions tighten to curb the spread of the virus. Ms Bennett told Sky News the sudden rise in unemployment has placed an “unprecedented demand on the system but a foreseeable one,” and had hoped the “government would have been slightly better prepared”. New measures have been introduced that will allow Australians eligible for welfare payments to access necessary information online to prevent the long queues outside Centrelink and hasten the process. “I do think there has been an enormous amount of confusion,” she said. “The communications are going to be so critical to getting [the response] right. “Tempora
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‘Not necessary’ for Australians to hoard medicine supplies

CEO of Medicines Australia Elizabeth de Somer says it’s “not necessary” for people to be hoarding on medicine supplies despite the growing spread of coronavirus. Retailers have reported some patients are panic buying and hoarding medications as the government implements tougher restrictions to stop the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19. Due to the increased demand, pharmacists are now under immense pressure to ensure vulnerable patients who need vital medication don't go without. “We have good supplies here in Australia and it is not necessary for people to be hoarding in their medicines or stocking up months of supplies,” Ms de Somer told Sky News. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Coalition forms new coronavirus commission

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has formed a new coronavirus commission designed to feed the right advice to policy makers. “I want to give Australians confidence that we've got the best people in this country working to solve the problems and the challenges that are going to confront us, so we all get through to the other side,” Mr Morrison said. “They will come to us and say, ‘Prime Minister, we need to do this, we need you to authorise this, we recommend that you take this action to get these problems sorted’.” The Commission will be made up of leaders from the business sector, non-for-profits and government agencies. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Border closure hurts small businesses

Jenni Victor and her husband have provided interstate commuters a place to stay for the past eight years, but are already feeling the pinch as the coronavirus cuts business at their caravan park near the South Australian border. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Asian shares tracking Wall St surge

Asian shares have extended their rally on Wednesday in the wake of Wall Street's big gains as US Congress appeared closer to passing a $US2 trillion ($A3.4 trillion) stimulus package to curb the coronavirus pandemic's economic toll. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Qld racks up 46 new COVID-19 cases

The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Queensland continues to climb as the state government and Queensland come to grips with measures to stop the spread of the infection. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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INFECTED SET FREE: NSW cleared infected cruise ship passengers without doing a single coronavirus test

Dozens of passengers infected with the coronavirus were let into Sydney by NSW Health before they were even tested for the deadly virus in an extraordinary development of the catastrophic health bungle which left more than 100 people infected. The revelations by ABF Commissioner Michael Outram outlined with great detail how NSW Health gave passengers on the cruise ship permission to disembark without conducting a single test. Almost a week later one passenger has died from coronavirus and the infected 50 passengers who were released have infected more than 100 people in the broader community. Mr Outram read out sections of the email from NSW dated March 18 which cleared the cruise ship for disembarking. “NSW health (told the Ruby Princess) the ‘NSW health expert panel has assessed the Ruby Princess as not requiring onboard assessment in Sydney’,” he said. “NSW health stated to the Ruby Princess, and I quote again, ‘You are free to disembark tomorrow however according the Australian gov
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Premier Andrews discusses hospital workers who tested positive, shopping centres, and Trump’s reaction to COVID-19

March 25, 2020. Part 2 Q and A: Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews discusses specifics around the state's COVID-19 rules and restrictions for people and businesses. He answers questions on different states dealing with different circumstances, the US president's reactions to the virus, the 4 hospital workers at Mercy hospital who have tested positive, the possibility of locking down of regional centres, he also discusses why shopping centres aren't closed altogether as yet. (AAP Video/Alex Murray) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Hunt says Australia is at the top of the world for coronavirus testing

March 24, 2020. Health Minister Greg Hunt speaks to the media in his daily coronavirus update in Canberra. He states Australia is testing 557 people per 100,000 people or half a per cent of the population which is the highest in the world. "We have the lowest rate..for positive tests..which means we are picking up a very large proportion of positive cases," Mr Hunt says. In relation to health professionals, "over 150,000 people have now completed the online infection control training." (AAP Video/Marc Tewksbury) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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‘People should stay in their own state’: Qld Premier

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has urged Australians to not visit the state for their holiday breaks. “We are coming up to a school break, it means we don’t want people from New South Wales or Victoria coming up here to Queensland, people should stay in their own state,” the premier said. “The Chief Health Officer has advised me there are serious health issues of people coming from other states to Queensland. “Unless you’re returning home to Queensland or you’re coming to Queensland for an essential purpose like work or a medical appointment…then the border is closed to you.” The Queensland border will close on Wednesday night at midnight to all non-essential travellers. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Trump administration working with Democrats on urgent relief bill

Supplied video obtained Tuesday, March 24, 2020, of US President Donald Trump speaking at a press conference with members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Washington. Trump says America will be open for business soon. "A lot sooner than 3-4 months," she says. "At the end of the 15 day period we will make a decision as to which way we want to go, where we want to go, the timing, essentially the opening of our country." (AAP VIDEO/Supplied/The White House) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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ACC green lights supermarket joint effort

Australia’s competition watchdog has given the green light to supermarkets to communicate directly with each other to sure up the supply of groceries to Australians. The ACCC will allow supermarkets to co-ordinate when working with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure consumers get better and fairer access. However, the watchdog stressed the new ruling would still forbid companies from price fixing. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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US cuts Afghan aid by $US1 billion

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has announced a $US1 billion ($A1.72 billion) cut in US aid to Afghanistan after failing to convince President Ashraf Ghani and his political foe to end a feud that helped jeopardise a US-led peace effort. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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At least 53 cruise ship passengers test positive for COVID-19

Widespread anger and criticism has been raised over two cruise ships that were allowed to dock in Sydney last week with thousands of passengers disembarking. At least 53 passengers from the Ruby Princess and Ovation of the Seas cruise ships have since been confirmed to have contracted the coronavirus. Emergency Service Minister David Elliot conceded the situation should never have happened but said it was now necessary to “get on with the job”. NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced the state government was ramping up its security measures with “harsh penalties” applicable to people caught flouting restrictions. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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The big Europe lie I fell for

If the tales were true, she was on the next plane out of here, but it wasn’t until this traveller returned from Europe that she realised she’d been duped. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Trump says the US will be open for business ‘soon’

US President Donald Trump says America will be open for business "soon", confirming a decision will be made as to whether the country's businesses will resume operations at the end of a nationally mandated 15-day shut down period. "We can not let the cure be worse than the problem itself," the president said. "Normal life will return and our economy will rebound very strongly but right now in the midst of this great national trial, Americans must remain united in purpose and focused on victory. "Our country was not built to be shut down," he said. The president also spoke against any growing xenophobic sentiment, namely against Chinese nationals residing in the US and abroad. President Trump said "clinical trials for existing drugs" that may fight the COVID-19 virus would open tomorrow, expressing optimism at a number of vaccines being explored. "Countries with malaria have had an interesting thing happen... there's very little
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NT police patrol bottle shops ahead of state lock down

Northern Territory police are patrolling bottle shops to prevent people from panic buying alcohol as the state cracks down on travel restrictions. Strict controls have been placed on remote Indigenous communities to prevent COVID-19 from putting the state’s most vulnerable at risk. The state’s borders will be locked down from 4pm today and anyone travelling into the state after the deadline will be forced to self-isolate for 14 days. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Businesses and workers in line for $84bn coronavirus relief package

Businesses and workers will be in line for $84 billion in financial relief to help them stay afloat during the coronavirus pandemic. The government's multi-billion dollar COVID-19 support package passed a skeleton parliament on Monday night with a broad suite of new measures. The federal government also included students in its package, with 230,000 students on youth allowance also in line for a coronavirus supplement payment of $550. Meanwhile, businesses hardest hit by the COVID-19 fallout will be eligible for grants of up to $100,000. The government is expected to work together with the states and territories to cushion the blow for home and office renters with laws which would prohibit them from being kicked out during the pandemic. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Pro freestyler levels up!

Football: A british freestyle footballer pulls off 30 keep ups in the #StayAtHomeChallenge, even managing a slick trick at the end of her feat. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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James Dodd chats HAL future

A-League: Fox Football journalist James Dodd spoke on Fox Sports News about the current climate of the A-League and their potential to progress with the season. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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More firms cut outlook as virus ban begins

Property developer Stockland, betting giant TabCorp, and health insurance firm NIB are among the latest to mothball earnings guidance while Ardent Leisure and Village Roadshow have shut their Gold Coast theme parks as coronavirus bans escalate. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Coronavirus noticeboard: What you need to know

The coronavirus outbreak has had a devastating impact on lives across many communities nationwide. From travel to school announcements and business restrictions, here are the latest developments and updates for the coronavirus outbreak in your state. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Customers Line Up Outside Sydney Supermarket Being Guarded by Police

Long lines of shoppers formed outside supermarkets in Australia on the morning of March 23 after the government announced the closure of non-essential businesses from midday. On Sunday, March 22, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced a national shutdown of non-essential services in a bid to slow the spread of the deadly coronavirus. Venues such as pubs, gyms and churches would close by midday on the Monday, however supermarkets would remain open. In this video, a line can be seen stretching outside an Aldi outlet at Hurstville, in Sydney’s south, before the store opened on March 23. Police officers can be seen guarding the entrance. Credit: @iconjen via Storyful Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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“We will prove we can meet the moment”: Trump

Supplied video obtained Monday, March 23, 2020 of US President Donald Trump speaking at a press conference with members of the Coronavirus Task Force in Washington. Trump says this is a challenging time for all Americans. "We're enduring a great national trial," he says. "And we will prove that we can meet the moment. " I want to assure the American people that we are doing everything we can each day to confront and ultimately defeat this horrible, invisible enemy. We are at war. In a true sense, we are at war." (AAP VIDEO/Supplied/The White House) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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PM says more social restrictions are coming

Supplied video obtained March 23, 2020 of the Prime Minister Scott Morrison speaking in Parliament about the coronavirus and its affects on the economy. "There is no 3 or 4 week shutdown that makes it go away, there is no short term solution to this, we have to steal ourselves for the next 6 months," Mr Morrison says. He goes to say about the social restrictions that will apply across Australian society. "As the virus spreads and it will governments around Australia will not be complacent and may need and will likely to need further restriction on our daily lives", the PM contends. (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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NSW Education Department ‘well equipped’ to move school curriculum online

New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian says no child will be turned away from school amid the coronavirus outbreak. The NSW Premier announced on Monday schools would remain open across the state, but urged parents to keep their children at home “if possible”. NSW Education Minister Sarah Mitchell said the department was “well equipped” to move the school curriculum online. “We’ve been doing distance education in NSW for over 100 years, and we do it well,” she said. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Labor will not ‘stand in the way’ of the coronavirus stimulus

Anthony Albanese says despite the government's lack of consultation about its coronavirus stimulus package, Labor will not be “standing in the way” of cash payments for workers and small business. The government has unveiled a $66 billion stimulus package designed to be the “bridge to recovery” for businesses on the brink of collapse and assist those left unemployed by the coronavirus crisis. Cash payments and a new loan guarantee scheme for small to medium enterprises, and income support for workers and businesses form the backbone of the second tranche of stimulus, bringing the total value of economic assistance to $189 billion. The government will push through the changes when parliament meets for at least one day next week. Mr Albanese told Sky News Labor will back most of the measures despite a lack of consultation between the two major parties. "What we are about here is outcomes, what people want to see is outcomes not arguments,” he said. When it comes to final votes w
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National cabinet fracture ‘a bad sign politically’

The fracture brewing within the national cabinet is “a bad sign politically” as the states and territories appear to be at odds with the federal government on how to proceed on how to curb the spread of COVID-19. It comes as the New South Wales and Victoria Governments seek to push the national cabinet to force a total shutdown on all non-essential businesses immediately. Victoria will also push for schools to be shut from Tuesday. Sky News host Ashleigh Gillon said confidence created by the establishment of the national cabinet is weaning. “This is such a bad sign politically that you’ve just had the Prime Minister in Canberra making this huge stimulus announcement and we're about to see the NSW Premier come out with her own major announcement what half an hour or so after,” she said. “This is a Liberal premier in New South Wales - Scott Morrison’s home state. “I think everyone had a real confidence boost when we saw the creation of the national cabinet when we saw (them) all on t
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Kiwi star walks again

Incredible footage has emerged of New Zealand rugby player Michael Fatialofa walking for the first time just 10 weeks after being paralysed. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Parliament thrown into ’emergency mode’ due to COVID-19

Prime Minister Scott Morrison says the parliamentary calendar may need to be thrown out the window as the coronavirus pandemic could force the parliament into “emergency mode”. Mr Morrison on Friday announced the Budget, which was to be handed down in May, would be pushed back until October. The upcoming sitting of parliament - which had only been convened to pass the government’s coronavirus stimulus measures - will only be attended by a skeleton of MPs and Senators. When asked on Sunday if further sittings could also be rescheduled, Mr Morrison said parliament may be only called when it needs to be to pass emergency legislation and not for general sittings. “We have to be conscious of the fact that because of the spread of the virus, it may not be physically possible to convene the parliament over the next six months and we have to prepare for those contingencies,” he said. “The plan is to move to a much more emergency mode operation for parliament to ensure the primacy of the parlia
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Charity warns it may run out of food

HOBART City Mission says it cannot source large food deliveries from supplier Woolworths, or any other major supermarket, and there are fears the charity will run out of food within days. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Netflix, Stan reduce quality of stream to cope with increased demand

Netflix and Stan have decided to drop the resolution in their streaming to reduce the amount of data being consumed due to increased numbers of the public in self-isolation as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. Sky News contributor Stephen Fenech said if "everyone was demanding 4K and hi-definition at the same time" it's going to "impact the bandwidth of the network". Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Calls for government stimulus to extend to charity groups

OzHarvest Founder Ronni Kahn has called for the government's stimulus package to extend to charity groups impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Ms Kahn said the organisation's "flagship fundraiser" which brings in "more than $3 million" in "fundamental and existential" funding was cancelled as a result of the virus. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Cars Line Up for Drive-Through Coronavirus Testing in Paramus, New Jersey

Long lines formed on local roadways surrounding Bergen Community College in Paramus, New Jersey, on March 20, after a drive-through coronavirus testing facility opened there on Friday, according to reports. The site, which has operating hours between 8 am and 4 pm local time, was forced to stop accepting more people before their official close time due to “overwhelming” response, reports said. Local news reports said no appointment was required, but only New Jersey residents showing symptoms — “a fever (99.6F or above), shortness of breath and a cough” — would be tested. As of Friday, New Jersey had 890 confirmed cases of COVID-19, reports said. Video filmed by Gina Cofone shows a long line of vehicles waiting to get into the screening area. Other video posted to her Instagram story shows the screening area in a Bergen Community College parking lot. Credit: Gina Cofone via Storyful Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Australian scientists record coronavirus success in secret trial

Australian scientists have registered some successful treatment of COVID-19 patients. Newscorp is reporting a secret trial involving some of the earliest diagnosed Australian patients has shown great success. Researchers have used a combination of malaria and HIV drugs in the trial which promises to cure the virus and leaves no trace in the patient's body. They're now ready to roll out full-scale clinical trials in 50 Australian hospitals. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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UK social venues close to curb virus spread

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has ordered cafes, pubs, bars, restaurants and gyms to close from tonight in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus. The prime minister said nightclubs, leisure centres and theatres should close their doors too, in an effort to reduce "unnecessary" social gatherings by 75% to have an impact on the infection rate. The move comes after the total number of people who have died in the UK after contracting COVID-19 rose to 177 after England saw 39 more deaths - the biggest rise in a day. The UK also saw 714 confirmed cases of coronavirus diagnosed in a day, bringing its total number to 3,983. Image: AP Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Who will Joe Biden pick as his VP?

With the Democratic presidential campaign effectively over, Sky News runs through the candidates Joe Biden is reportedly considering to be his running mate as he gears up to take on Donald Trump and Mike Pence in November. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Andrew Bogut ‘disappointed’ over NBL’s handling of coronavirus

Sydney Kings superstar Andrew Bogut says he is "disappointed" over the NBL's handling of the coronavirus outbreak after the league cancelled the Grand Final and crowned the Perth Wildcats champions. “It’s hugely disappointing for any professional athlete to have to make the decision that we made. But, to me, what’s more disappointing is the way the NBL’s handled this, and that’s got nothing to do with them picking Perth as a winner," Bogut said on Friday. “For me, there’s three categories with great companies in professional sport: it’s handling things proactively, being reactive, and then doing things retroactively. “I think the retroactive aspect of this has been a ten out of ten, the proactiveness has been barely a one, and the reactive stuff’s probably about a five.” Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Australia Post remains open, limits human contact

While some services have been shut down, Australia’s postal network is still operating. Australia Post offices are still open but self-service terminals will be closed from Friday to limit contact between customers and staff. Deliveries will also no longer require signatures. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Australia’s borders could be closed for six months

The Morrison Government will close Australia's borders to non-citizens from 9:00pm AEDT today. The border shutdown will come into effect tonight in a never before seen move to limit the scourge of COVID-19. The shutdown extends the current ban on travel from countries including Iran, China and South Korea, to include every country in the world. Australians have been warned the COVID-19 crisis could last at least six months. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Deputy CMO says there are now 8,000 COVID-19 deaths internationally

Supplied video obtained March 19, 2020 of Deputy Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly speaking to the media in Canberra with the latest COVID-19 update.14,000 new cases overnight with 8,000 deaths due to the virus. (AAP Video/ABC) NO ARCHIVING AAP VIDEO BEYOND 48 HOUR NEWS USAGE Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Kerry Chant clarifies use of Panadol to treat coronavirus symptoms

March 19, 2020. NSW chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant speaks to repoters in Sydney, talking about the use of Panadol to treat symptoms of coronavirus. "Let me be clear because there has been some social media misunderstandings that Panadol is a treatment for COVID-19," Dr Chant says. "Panadol does no treat COVID-19, it treats the symptoms which might be fever, muscle aches and pains." (Michael Wade) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Coronavirus cases in NSW surpass 300

March 19, 2020. NSW chief health officer Dr Kerry Chant speaks to repoters in Sydney, saying there are 307 confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state, up from 267 on Wednesday. Of this number, almost 130 were acquired overseas, including recent returnees from virus-hit areas in Europe, the UK and the US. Dr Chant says the initial precautionary approach of hospitalising all confirmed COVID-19 cases has been abandoned as cases rise. "It's reassuring that many of our cases continue to be mild with currently six patients in intensive care units. Many of our patients are being managed in the community and being managed at home and we are only admitting patients now that require hospital care," Dr Chant says. (AAP Video/Michael Wade) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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NBN to increase bandwidth to meet growing demand

The National Broadband Network will provide more bandwidth free of charge to meet the increasing demand from Australians in self-isolation or working from home. Communications Minister Paul Fletcher said the move would support economic productivity during the COVID-19 crisis. Under the move, bandwidth capacity would increase by 40 per cent. Image: News Corp Australia Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Albanese calls for no delay to stimulus measures

March 18, 2020. Federal Labor leader Anthony Albanese speaks to reporters in Sydney, commenting on the government's stimulus package as it works to shield the economy from the coronavirus threat. "We will be supportive, make no mistake, of economic stimulus... if we have a suggestion it;'s been to bring things forward," Mr Albanese says. (AAP Video/Callum Godde) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Berejiklian offers assurance that the government will keep people safe

March 18, 2020. The NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian speaks to the media in Sydney with a coronavirus update with a message of reassurance to the public that she wants to back in everything the prime minister has said and keep the community safe. "The best option for schools is that they stay open", Ms Berejiklian says. "There is no reason to feel overly concerned of anxious about what is coming around the corner," she adds. (AAP Video/Angelo Risso) Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Penguins tour their Chicago aquarium

Without guests in the building, caretakers at Chicago's Shedd Aquarium are getting creative in how they provide enrichment to animals, resulting in a field trip for some of the penguins there on Sunday (March 15). Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Anasta hits out at Smith

NRL: Braith Anasta has said that while Cameron Smith is entitled to his opinion on continuing the league, he thinks the situation is markedly different for other players. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Labor calls on ADF to assist in opening fever clinics early

Shadow Health Minister Chris Bowen has suggested the Defence Force be called in to help bring forward the establishment of new fever clinics from May. Under the government’s $2.4 billion COVID-19 health package, Prime Minister Scott Morrison last week announced it would fund the establishment of 100 fever clinics to assist with the response to the pandemic. Labor criticised the delay in opening the clinics, with Mr Bowen warning it was moving “too slow”. “We need the fever clinics up and running, even if they're not actively being used straight away,” he said. “This is a national emergency and it needs all the resources of the country applied to it. “We are suggesting that the ADF, our military capacity be deployed, where appropriate, to help the fever clinics open as soon as possible. "Please consider using the ADF as a matter of urgency to assist the respiratory clinics to be opened as soon as possible." Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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COVID-19 update from Chief Health Officer – social distancing will continue for at least 6 months

Supplied video obtained Wednesday, March 18, 2020 of Chief Medical Officer Brendan Murphy speaking to reporters in Canberra on the COVID-19 situation. He says that any interventions we are currently making need to be able to continue for at least the next 6 months, saying that a short-term complete shutdown would result in continued short-term shutdowns. (AAP Video/Supplied/ParlView) (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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Live Feeds From NYC, Dublin and Key West Show ‘Shocking’ Difference in 2019, 2020 St Patrick’s Day Crowds

Footage from cameras in Dublin, New York City and Key West show the “shocking” differences in St Patrick’s Day celebrations in 2019 versus 2020 in each respective city. Crowds were controlled on March 17 in order to control the spread of COVID-19. The cameras are stationed at 5th Avenue in New York City, Duval Street in Key West and at the Temple Bar in Dublin. Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar announced on March 9 that all St Patrick’s festivities and parades would be canceled. Legislators in New York and Florida made similar call for all bars and restaurants to close. Credit: EarthCam, Inc. via Storyful Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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Hong Kong to quarantine all visitors

Hong Kong will quarantine for 14 days all people entering the city starting midnight on Thursday to prevent an "explosion" of coronavirus cases around the world compromising one of the world's most successful outbreak limitation campaigns. Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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‘We are at war’: President Macron orders citizens stay at home amid coronavirus ‘battle’

French residents are preparing to feel the full effects of strict measures which are set to be introduced in order to combat the spread of the deadly coronavirus in the country. The French President, Emmanuel Macron, has ordered the nation's citizens stay at home unless absolutely necessary. Beginning midday Tuesday, residents should only leave their homes for essential duties. "We are in a situation of war, a health war," Mr Macron said. "The enemy is there, it's invisible and it's progressing". Mr Macron also confirmed the EU would shut its borders for 30 days. Image: Getty Via news.com.au — Australia’s #1 news site https://www.news.com.au
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