Australia
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Birth rate fears after cap on nation-first IVF subsidy
An Australian-first rebate aimed at making parenthood easier for thousands of couples will be limited within months, sparking fears the move will drive down already declining birth rates. More than …
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Social media ban for under 16’s approved
A world-first ban on social media for people younger than 16 will lead to less harm and better outcomes for children, the prime minister says. Federal parliament signed off on …
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Residents shelter as fire threatens coastal communities
Residents in a series of coastal communities threatened by a bushfire have been told it’s too late to leave and they should find shelter as the fire burns through evacuation …
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‘Pigs fly’: Metro deadline delays cloud opening date
Doubts are growing over Melbourne’s much-hyped Metro Tunnel opening to passengers in 2025 after key contract deadlines were pushed back. A contract variation tabled in Victorian parliament on Thursday pushes back the …
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FECCA urges Government to reconsider rushed migration amendment bills
The Federation of Ethnic Communities’ Councils of Australia (FECCA) has voiced strong concerns over the Government’s proposed Migration Amendment Bills, citing their expedited progression through Parliament as a threat to …
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Ethnic Communities’ Council of NSW preparing for grand 2025 to celebrate 50th anniversary
The Ethnic Communities’ Council of NSW (ECCNSW) will honour its 50th anniversary in 2025, with a gala dinner heading a series of events to be held throughout next year. The …
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Leaders queue up to back boosted anti-hate laws – Religious free pass untouched
Religious exceptions to anti-vilification laws will be guaranteed as protected groups are expanded and criminal offences created to stamp out deepening hate and division. Flanked by religious, community and equality leaders, Victoria’s Premier …
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Crackdown to drive crooked cabbies out of the industry
Taxi drivers who overcharge passengers, refuse short trips or don’t use the pay meter are at risk of being chucked out of the industry. Dubbed the ‘two strikes and you’re …
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Scorching spring finish brings hottest temps in years
Parts of Australia are heading for their hottest November temperatures in four years as a spring heatwave sends the mercury soaring towards 40C. Warnings have been issued in parts of …
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Ten years in top job: Nationals leader hands over reins
A veteran state Nationals leader has stepped down to make way for new blood as the party begins preparations for an election in 2026. Peter Walsh has resigned as leader …