Mountains of sea foam covered coastlines along Australia's eastern seaboard as cyclonic winds and unprecedented weather conditions bear down on the coast.

Severe wet weather continues for 5th day; Gold Coast hit with dangerous strong winds

Australia is cracking down on white terror at home a year after a 28-year-old Australian attacked two mosques in New Zealand's Christchurch and killed 51 worshippers.

Gravitas: Australia's battles White supremacy

Australia has approved a law which gives federal government power to veto any agreement stuck between Australian state and foreign nations.

Australia approves new veto power for stuck pacts with foreign nations

Economists said the rebound in activity reflected Australian authorities’ successful suppression of Covid-19.

Australia bounces out of recession as economy grows

Parts of the continent sweated through the hottest November night on record on Saturday.

Record heat wave in Australia sparks fears of more bushfires

None of the 19 soldiers were identified in the report, which was written by a state judge appointed by the inspector-general of defence.

13 Australian soldiers face dismissal over Afghan unlawful killings

Scientists in a study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society Journal said that half of Great Barrier Reef's corals had died in last 25 years. Climate change is severely affecting the world-heritage listed reef off Australia's northeastern coast.

Great Barrier Reef is made up of corals that support rich and bio-diverse marine life. The reef is 2300 km long.

Climate change has affected larger species of corals which have almost disappeared from far northern reaches of the reef.

"They're typically depleted by (up to) 80 or 90 percent compared to 25 years ago," report co-author and James Cook University professor Terry Hughes told AFP.

"They make the nooks and crannies that fish and other creatures depend on, so losing big three-dimensional corals changes the broader ecosystem."

Great Barrier Reef was an estimated USD 4 billion in revenue from tourism before the coronavirus pandemic.

The reef is at risk of losing its coveted world heritage status because of ocean warming -- fuelled by climate change -- damaging its health.

Changes in ocean temperatures stress healthy corals, causing them to expel algae living in their tissues -- draining them of their vibrant colours in a process known as bleaching.

Back-to-back mass bleaching events in 2016 and 2017 prompted the government to downgrade the long-term outlook for the world's largest living organism to "very poor". 
Mass bleaching was first seen on the reef in 1998 -- at the time, the hottest year on record -- but as temperatures continue to soar it frequency has increased, shrinking the reef and making it harder to recover.

The big mamas

"A vibrant coral population has millions of small, baby corals, as well as many large ones -- the big mamas who produce most of the larvae," the study's lead author Andy Dietzel, also of James Cook University, said.

"Its resilience is compromised compared to the past, because there are fewer babies, and fewer large breeding adults."

On top of long-term ocean warming and associated bleaching, the reef has been battered by several cyclones and two outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish -- which eat the coral -- since 1995.

When the starfish occur in small numbers, they are considered part of the natural ecosystem, but when a large outbreak happens, they can rapidly destroy parts of the reef.

While four mass bleaching events up to 2017 were covered by the latest research, the damage to coral species from bleaching in early 2020 is yet to be assessed.

It was the most widespread bleaching on record, impacting swathes of the southern reaches of the reef for the first time.

Hughes said scientists expected corals to continue dying off unless nations met their Paris Agreement commitment to keep the increase in global average temperature under 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels.

"It takes about a decade for a half-decent recovery for the fastest-growing species, so the chances of us getting decades between the future sixth, seventh and eighth bleaching events is close to zero because temperatures are because going up and up and up," he said.

If temperatures do stabilise later this century under the Paris target, it is hoped that corals will be able to reassemble and rebuild their numbers.&nbsp;

Even then, Hughes said, "we don't think they'll rebuild into the mix of species that we've known historically".

If the rise is as much as 3 or 4 degrees Celsius, "forget it", he said.

"The trajectory is changing very, very quickly -- we're shocked and surprised by how quickly these changes are happening -- and there's further change ahead."

(With AFP inputs)

Scientists in a study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society Journal said that half of Great Barrier Reef's corals had died in last 25 years. Climate change is severely affecting the world-heritage listed reef off Australia's northeastern coast.

Scientists in a study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society Journal said that half of Great Barrier Reef's corals had died in last 25 years. Climate change is severely affecting the world-heritage listed reef off Australia's northeastern coast. Great Barrier Reef is made up of corals that support rich and bio-diverse marine life. The reef is 2300 km long. Climate change has affected larger species of corals which have almost disappeared from far northern reaches of the reef. "They're typically depleted by (up to) 80 or 90 percent compared to 25 years ago," report co-author and James Cook University professor Terry Hughes told AFP. "They make the nooks and crannies that fish and other creatures depend on, so losing big three-dimensional corals changes the broader ecosystem." Great Barrier Reef was an estimated USD 4 billion in revenue from tourism before the coronavirus pandemic. The reef is at risk of losing its coveted world heritage status because of ocean warming -- fuelled by climate change -- damaging its health. Changes in ocean temperatures stress healthy corals, causing them to expel algae living in their tissues -- draining them of their vibrant colours in a process known as bleaching. Back-to-back mass bleaching events in 2016 and 2017 prompted the government to downgrade the long-term outlook for the world's largest living organism to "very poor". Mass bleaching was first seen on the reef in 1998 -- at the time, the hottest year on record -- but as temperatures continue to soar it frequency has increased, shrinking the reef and making it harder to recover. The big mamas "A vibrant coral population has millions of small, baby corals, as well as many large ones -- the big mamas who produce most of the larvae," the study's lead author Andy Dietzel, also of James Cook University, said. "Its resilience is compromised compared to the past, because there are fewer babies, and fewer large breeding adults." On top of long-term ocean warming and associated bleaching, the reef has been battered by several cyclones and two outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish -- which eat the coral -- since 1995. When the starfish occur in small numbers, they are considered part of the natural ecosystem, but when a large outbreak happens, they can rapidly destroy parts of the reef. While four mass bleaching events up to 2017 were covered by the latest research, the damage to coral species from bleaching in early 2020 is yet to be assessed. It was the most widespread bleaching on record, impacting swathes of the southern reaches of the reef for the first time. Hughes said scientists expected corals to continue dying off unless nations met their Paris Agreement commitment to keep the increase in global average temperature under 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) above pre-industrial levels. "It takes about a decade for a half-decent recovery for the fastest-growing species, so the chances of us getting decades between the future sixth, seventh and eighth bleaching events is close to zero because temperatures are because going up and up and up," he said. If temperatures do stabilise later this century under the Paris target, it is hoped that corals will be able to reassemble and rebuild their numbers. Even then, Hughes said, "we don't think they'll rebuild into the mix of species that we've known historically". If the rise is as much as 3 or 4 degrees Celsius, "forget it", he said. "The trajectory is changing very, very quickly -- we're shocked and surprised by how quickly these changes are happening -- and there's further change ahead." (With AFP inputs)

Great Barrier Reef lost half of its corals in 25 years

Australia’s A$2 trillion economy suffered its deepest slump on record in the June quarter.

Australia to spend more on jobs amid COVID crisis

The owner of Australia's biggest theme park was fined $2.5 million (Aus$3.6 million) Monday for safety failures leading to the deaths of four people on a popular water ride in 2016.

Two women and two men died when their rafts collided on the Thunder River Rapids ride at Dreamworld on the Gold Coast, leading prosecutors to file three charges against owner Ardent Leisure in June.

A Queensland court found the company had breached the state's workplace health and safety laws but stopped short of the maximum Aus$4.5 million penalty.

Ardent Leisure said it accepted full responsibility and apologised "unreservedly" in a statement to the Australian Securities Exchange.

Its board and executives expressed their "deepest sympathies" to the victims' families for the "enormous loss to each of them from the terrible tragedy which occurred at Dreamworld... and the ongoing suffering from that loss".

The company, which faced heavy criticism for trying to re-open before the funerals had taken place, said a new leadership had driven a "complete overhaul" of safety procedures at the theme park.

Ardent Leisure said it had compensated the "majority" of families, first responders and others impacted by the tragedy and was working to complete the outstanding claims.

Construction of a memorial to the victims in Dreamworld was put on hold due to the pandemic but work is expected to restart within months, the firm added.

The owner of Australia's biggest theme park was fined $2.5 million (Aus$3.6 million) Monday for safety failures leading to the deaths of four people on a popular water ride in 2016.

The owner of Australia's biggest theme park was fined $2.5 million (Aus$3.6 million) Monday for safety failures leading to the deaths of four people on a popular water ride in 2016. Two women and two men died when their rafts collided on the Thunder River Rapids ride at Dreamworld on the Gold Coast, leading prosecutors to file three charges against owner Ardent Leisure in June. A Queensland court found the company had breached the state's workplace health and safety laws but stopped short of the maximum Aus$4.5 million penalty. Ardent Leisure said it accepted full responsibility and apologised "unreservedly" in a statement to the Australian Securities Exchange. Its board and executives expressed their "deepest sympathies" to the victims' families for the "enormous loss to each of them from the terrible tragedy which occurred at Dreamworld... and the ongoing suffering from that loss". The company, which faced heavy criticism for trying to re-open before the funerals had taken place, said a new leadership had driven a "complete overhaul" of safety procedures at the theme park. Ardent Leisure said it had compensated the "majority" of families, first responders and others impacted by the tragedy and was working to complete the outstanding claims. Construction of a memorial to the victims in Dreamworld was put on hold due to the pandemic but work is expected to restart within months, the firm added.

Australian theme park operator fined $2.5 million over accident that killed four

Protesters in Melbourne defied coronavirus lockdown for a second weekend on Sunday. The city has been under hard lockdown for last six weeks. The protests against the lockdown resulted in 74 arrests and at least 175 infringement notices for breaching public health orders. Melbourne is coronavirus hotspot. Number of new infections has risen to 41.

A riot squad marched through fruit and vegetable stalls at the city's landmark, the Queen Victoria market, before the scuffling with protesters erupted, with some people throwing fruit at the police, television footage showed.

Victoria Police said in a statement that there were between 200 and 250 people involved in the protests, but there were no immediately known injuries to the police.

"It was extremely disappointing to see people not just protesting but putting the lives of other Victorians at risk despite all the warnings," the police said in an e-mailed statement.

Australian state of Victoria, the capital of which is Melbourne, accounts for about 75 per cent of Australia's more than 26,609 coronavirus cases.

The state accounts for more than 90 per cent of the total deaths. The death toll is currently at 810.

The city will remain under hard lockdown, but the amount of time people will be able to spend outside will double to two hours per day and the overnight curfew will be shortened by an hour as of Monday.

Protests in New Zealand:

Anti-restriction protests were also witnessed in New Zealand where the government has been able to stop the community transmission stage. People rallied in Auckland against social distancing restrictions in effect.

On Saturday, television footage showed tightly packed crowds, with many people not wearing masks, with estimates of the attendance varying in reports between a thousand and a few thousand people.

Protesters in Melbourne defied coronavirus lockdown for a second weekend on Sunday. The city has been under hard lockdown for last six weeks. The protests against the lockdown resulted in 74 arrests and at least 175 infringement notices for breaching public health orders.

Protesters in Melbourne defied coronavirus lockdown for a second weekend on Sunday. The city has been under hard lockdown for last six weeks. The protests against the lockdown resulted in 74 arrests and at least 175 infringement notices for breaching public health orders. Melbourne is coronavirus hotspot. Number of new infections has risen to 41. A riot squad marched through fruit and vegetable stalls at the city's landmark, the Queen Victoria market, before the scuffling with protesters erupted, with some people throwing fruit at the police, television footage showed. Victoria Police said in a statement that there were between 200 and 250 people involved in the protests, but there were no immediately known injuries to the police. "It was extremely disappointing to see people not just protesting but putting the lives of other Victorians at risk despite all the warnings," the police said in an e-mailed statement. Australian state of Victoria, the capital of which is Melbourne, accounts for about 75 per cent of Australia's more than 26,609 coronavirus cases. The state accounts for more than 90 per cent of the total deaths. The death toll is currently at 810. The city will remain under hard lockdown, but the amount of time people will be able to spend outside will double to two hours per day and the overnight curfew will be shortened by an hour as of Monday. Protests in New Zealand: Anti-restriction protests were also witnessed in New Zealand where the government has been able to stop the community transmission stage. People rallied in Auckland against social distancing restrictions in effect. On Saturday, television footage showed tightly packed crowds, with many people not wearing masks, with estimates of the attendance varying in reports between a thousand and a few thousand people.

Protests against coronavirus lockdown erupt in Melbourne, 74 arrested

Cheng Lei, an Australian citizen who has worked as a reporter in China and is a well-known TV anchor, was detained by Chinese authorities last month. There has previously been no public explanation.

Journalist Cheng Lei has been detained by China over 'National Security risks'

An alligator-skin&nbsp;designer handbag worth&nbsp;$19,000&nbsp;is to be destroyed after a woman imported it into Australia but&nbsp;its would-be owner failed to buy a $51 permit.

The luxury bag, from a Saint Laurent boutique in France, was seized by the Australian Border Force in Perth&nbsp;on the suspicion it might have been involved in the illegal wildlife trade.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/adolf-hitlers-rumoured-alligator-dies-in-moscow-300749">Adolf Hitler's 'rumoured' alligator dies in Moscow</a>

The handbag shopper had arranged a CITES export permit from France, but didn’t make an application for an import permit from the Australian CITES Management Authority.

Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) strictly&nbsp;regulates and monitors products derived from alligator are allowed into Australia&nbsp;to protect species that might be adversely affected by illicit markets.

The maximum penalty for wildlife trade offences in Australia is 10 years in prison and over $160,000&nbsp;fine.

<ul>
</ul>

Australian Environment Minister Sussan Ley called it a “costly reminder” to apply for the correct paperwork and the citizens of the country&nbsp;should take the time to think about ethical fashion choices.&nbsp;<cite> </cite>

<img alt="Australian Environment Minister Sussan Ley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="24597491-b4ef-431a-bb19-c216032c13a3" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/6277152-3x2-940x627.jpg" />

In picture: Australian Environment Minister Sussan Ley/Reuters

"We all need to be aware of what we're purchasing online as restricting the trade of animal products is crucial to the long-term survival of endangered species," she added.

"Aside from the rules themselves, it is important that people take the time to think about ethical fashion choices."

Governments across the globe have been clamping down on the trade of over-exploited species such as alligators, which&nbsp;critics say are fuelled by the fashion industry.

An alligator-skin designer handbag worth $19,000 is to be destroyed after a woman imported it into Australia but its would-be owner failed to buy a $51 permit. The luxury bag, from a Saint Laurent boutique in France, was seized by the Australian Border Force in Perth on the suspicion it might have been involved in the illegal wildlife trade.

An alligator-skin designer handbag worth $19,000 is to be destroyed after a woman imported it into Australia but its would-be owner failed to buy a $51 permit. The luxury bag, from a Saint Laurent boutique in France, was seized by the Australian Border Force in Perth on the suspicion it might have been involved in the illegal wildlife trade. Also read: Adolf Hitler's 'rumoured' alligator dies in Moscow The handbag shopper had arranged a CITES export permit from France, but didn’t make an application for an import permit from the Australian CITES Management Authority. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) strictly regulates and monitors products derived from alligator are allowed into Australia to protect species that might be adversely affected by illicit markets. The maximum penalty for wildlife trade offences in Australia is 10 years in prison and over $160,000 fine. Australian Environment Minister Sussan Ley called it a “costly reminder” to apply for the correct paperwork and the citizens of the country should take the time to think about ethical fashion choices. In picture: Australian Environment Minister Sussan Ley/Reuters "We all need to be aware of what we're purchasing online as restricting the trade of animal products is crucial to the long-term survival of endangered species," she added. "Aside from the rules themselves, it is important that people take the time to think about ethical fashion choices." Governments across the globe have been clamping down on the trade of over-exploited species such as alligators, which critics say are fuelled by the fashion industry.

Customs to destroy alligator skin bag worth $19,000 over $51 missing permit

China has detained an Australian news anchor working for its state-run English-language television network CGTN, Australia's foreign minister said on Monday.

The detention of journalist Cheng Lei is a blow to deteriorating relations between the two countries that have seen China warn its citizens of travelling to Australia and vice-versa.

Foreign Minister Marise Payne said Australia was informed on August 14 that Cheng was being held by Beijing authorities.

Australian consular officials spoke to Cheng in her detention facility via video link on August 27 and were in touch with her family, Payne said in a statement.

She provided no further details, but public broadcaster ABC said Cheng's friends became concerned after she stopped responding to messages in recent weeks.

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/china-lacks-formal-combat-capability-to-assault-us-taiwan-324271">China lacks 'formal combat capability' to assault us: Taiwan</a>

The CGTN website page which described Cheng as an anchor on the network's Global Business programme was no longer available after news of her detention emerged.

The ABC said Cheng was being held under "residential surveillance at a designated location", a form of detention that allows investigators to hold and question a suspect for up to six months without them being formally arrested.

The broadcaster published a statement by Cheng's family in Melbourne expressing confidence that "In China, due process will be observed and we look forward to a satisfactory and timely conclusion to the matter."

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"We ask that you respect that process and understand there will be no further comment at this time," the statement said.

Ties began to sour between Australia and China -- its biggest trading partner -- more than two years ago when Australian authorities began to move against what was seen as China's growing political interference and influence peddling in the country.

Beijing was particularly infuriated by Australia's leading role in international calls earlier this year for an investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan.

Since then, China has taken steps to curb key Australian imports and encouraged Chinese students and tourists to avoid the country.&nbsp;

Cheng is the second high-profile Australian citizen to be detained in Beijing after writer Yang Hengjun was arrested in January 2019 on suspicion of espionage.

Earlier this year Australia warned its citizens they faced the risk of arbitrary detention if they traveled to China.

China has detained an Australian news anchor working for its state-run English-language television network CGTN, Australia's foreign minister said on Monday. The detention of journalist Cheng Lei is a blow to deteriorating relations between the two countries that have seen China warn its citizens of travelling to Australia and vice-versa.

China has detained an Australian news anchor working for its state-run English-language television network CGTN, Australia's foreign minister said on Monday. The detention of journalist Cheng Lei is a blow to deteriorating relations between the two countries that have seen China warn its citizens of travelling to Australia and vice-versa. Foreign Minister Marise Payne said Australia was informed on August 14 that Cheng was being held by Beijing authorities. Australian consular officials spoke to Cheng in her detention facility via video link on August 27 and were in touch with her family, Payne said in a statement. She provided no further details, but public broadcaster ABC said Cheng's friends became concerned after she stopped responding to messages in recent weeks. Also Read: China lacks 'formal combat capability' to assault us: Taiwan The CGTN website page which described Cheng as an anchor on the network's Global Business programme was no longer available after news of her detention emerged. The ABC said Cheng was being held under "residential surveillance at a designated location", a form of detention that allows investigators to hold and question a suspect for up to six months without them being formally arrested. The broadcaster published a statement by Cheng's family in Melbourne expressing confidence that "In China, due process will be observed and we look forward to a satisfactory and timely conclusion to the matter." × "We ask that you respect that process and understand there will be no further comment at this time," the statement said. Ties began to sour between Australia and China -- its biggest trading partner -- more than two years ago when Australian authorities began to move against what was seen as China's growing political interference and influence peddling in the country. Beijing was particularly infuriated by Australia's leading role in international calls earlier this year for an investigation into the origins of the coronavirus pandemic, which began in the Chinese city of Wuhan. Since then, China has taken steps to curb key Australian imports and encouraged Chinese students and tourists to avoid the country. Cheng is the second high-profile Australian citizen to be detained in Beijing after writer Yang Hengjun was arrested in January 2019 on suspicion of espionage. Earlier this year Australia warned its citizens they faced the risk of arbitrary detention if they traveled to China.

China detains Australian journalist, allows consular access

The high-profile anchor was the China correspondent for US pay TV network CNBC for nine years.

Australian TV anchor Cheng Lei detained in China

Facebook Inc said it will block news sharing on its platforms in Australia if the government goes ahead with a law to force it, and Alphabet Inc`s Google, to pay local media outlets for featuring their content on its platforms.

The matter is being watched closely around the world as it represents the biggest challenge so far to the way the U.S. tech giants use news on some of the world`s biggest websites.

WHAT DOES THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION SAY?

<ul>
	<li>The draft law states that Australian news outlets can negotiate individually or collectively with Facebook and Google over payment for content used on the tech firms` sites. Other tech firms may be added if they are deemed big enough.</li>
	<li>If the parties cannot reach an agreement, an arbitrator will decide whose offer is more reasonable. If Facebook or Google break any resulting agreements, they can be fined up to A$10 million ($7.4 million) in civil penalties.</li>
	<li>The draft also requires tech firms give media outlets notice when they change search algorithms in a way affecting the order in which content appears. They must also share their use of consumer data extracted from news content on their sites.</li>
	<li>The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission began investigating "big tech" in 2017 and sought feedback on the draft until Aug. 28. It now hopes to work with government and industry to redraft the law before it goes before parliament.</li>
	<li>While internet and media companies have battled in other jurisdictions - notably in Germany over copyright of news snippets and other items published by Google - Australia`s proposal represents the most expansive reform.</li>
</ul>

Also Read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/technology/facebook-to-conduct-research-on-its-impact-on-us-elections-324424">Facebook to conduct research on its impact on US elections</a> 
&nbsp;

WHY WAS THE LAW PROPOSED?

<ul>
	<li>In recent years, traditional media companies operating in Australia have suffered huge hits to income streams, such as subscriptions and advertising. For every A$100 spent on online advertising in Australia, excluding classifieds, nearly a third goes to Google and Facebook, the competition regulator has said.</li>
	<li>Last year, the regulator published a report stating news outlets lacked bargaining power when negotiating with digital firms over compensation for content posted on online platforms. It said this was a problem because those same publishers relied on Facebook and Google to reach many of their consumers.</li>
	<li>The government wanted the tech giants to abide by a voluntary code. Citing lack of progress in discussions, it decided earlier this year that legislation was necessary.</li>
</ul>

&nbsp;

WHAT HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN?

<ul>
	<li>The local arm of News Corp is a vocal supporter of the legislation. It partly blamed the tech companies for the closure of dozens of mastheads earlier this year.</li>
	<li>Facebook and Google said they help connect media outlets with consumers, boosting their subscriptions and enabling them to charge advertisers more. Facebook said in the first five months of 2020 it sent 2.3 billion "clicks" worth about A$200 million to Australian news websites via articles appearing on Facebook users` pages. Google has said it would pay for content, though no major media organisation has agreed to its terms.</li>
	<li>Australia has previously engaged in lengthy battles with major corporations. In 2012, the then centre-left government became the first in the world to prohibit cigarette companies from using designs on their packaging to attract consumers. Tobacco companies mounted legal challenges but the courts ultimately upheld the law.</li>
</ul>

($1 = 1.3501 Australian dollars) 
&nbsp;

Facebook Inc said it will block news sharing on its platforms in Australia if the government goes ahead with a law to force it, and Alphabet Inc`s Google, to pay local media outlets for featuring their content on its platforms.

Facebook Inc said it will block news sharing on its platforms in Australia if the government goes ahead with a law to force it, and Alphabet Inc`s Google, to pay local media outlets for featuring their content on its platforms. The matter is being watched closely around the world as it represents the biggest challenge so far to the way the U.S. tech giants use news on some of the world`s biggest websites. WHAT DOES THE PROPOSED LEGISLATION SAY? The draft law states that Australian news outlets can negotiate individually or collectively with Facebook and Google over payment for content used on the tech firms` sites. Other tech firms may be added if they are deemed big enough. If the parties cannot reach an agreement, an arbitrator will decide whose offer is more reasonable. If Facebook or Google break any resulting agreements, they can be fined up to A$10 million ($7.4 million) in civil penalties. The draft also requires tech firms give media outlets notice when they change search algorithms in a way affecting the order in which content appears. They must also share their use of consumer data extracted from news content on their sites. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission began investigating "big tech" in 2017 and sought feedback on the draft until Aug. 28. It now hopes to work with government and industry to redraft the law before it goes before parliament. While internet and media companies have battled in other jurisdictions - notably in Germany over copyright of news snippets and other items published by Google - Australia`s proposal represents the most expansive reform. Also Read: Facebook to conduct research on its impact on US elections WHY WAS THE LAW PROPOSED? In recent years, traditional media companies operating in Australia have suffered huge hits to income streams, such as subscriptions and advertising. For every A$100 spent on online advertising in Australia, excluding classifieds, nearly a third goes to Google and Facebook, the competition regulator has said. Last year, the regulator published a report stating news outlets lacked bargaining power when negotiating with digital firms over compensation for content posted on online platforms. It said this was a problem because those same publishers relied on Facebook and Google to reach many of their consumers. The government wanted the tech giants to abide by a voluntary code. Citing lack of progress in discussions, it decided earlier this year that legislation was necessary. WHAT HAS THE RESPONSE BEEN? The local arm of News Corp is a vocal supporter of the legislation. It partly blamed the tech companies for the closure of dozens of mastheads earlier this year. Facebook and Google said they help connect media outlets with consumers, boosting their subscriptions and enabling them to charge advertisers more. Facebook said in the first five months of 2020 it sent 2.3 billion "clicks" worth about A$200 million to Australian news websites via articles appearing on Facebook users` pages. Google has said it would pay for content, though no major media organisation has agreed to its terms. Australia has previously engaged in lengthy battles with major corporations. In 2012, the then centre-left government became the first in the world to prohibit cigarette companies from using designs on their packaging to attract consumers. Tobacco companies mounted legal challenges but the courts ultimately upheld the law. ($1 = 1.3501 Australian dollars)

Facebook to Australians: Will block news sharing if government passes proposed law

Australia said Tuesday it "would be contrary to national interests" to allow a Chinese firm to buy a major dairy producer, the latest sign of souring relations between the two countries.

The $430 million sale of Lion Dairy and Drinks, currently owned by Japan's Kirin, to Mengniu Dairy had been awaiting regulatory approval since November, but the Chinese firm pulled out of the deal Tuesday.

"Given this approval is unlikely to be forthcoming at this time, Lion and Mengniu Dairy have mutually agreed to cease the current sale process," Lion said in a statement.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-australia-has-more-to-lose-than-china-in-trade-row-301189">Why Australia has more to lose than China in trade row</a>

Although Australia's consumer watchdog had earlier cleared the deal, Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said in a statement on Tuesday that the sale "would be contrary to the national interest".&nbsp;

The Australian Financial Review newspaper reported that Frydenberg's stance was against the advice of the Foreign Investment Review Board and his own department.&nbsp;

Earlier this year the Australian government moved to tighten rules covering foreign investment in the country, with temporary measures allowing increased oversight on takeovers of local firms during the pandemic.&nbsp;

Just last year, Inner Mongolia-headquartered Mengniu was given approval to purchase of one Australia's largest baby formula manufacturers, Bellamy's.&nbsp;

Relations between China and Australia continue to worsen since Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison joined US calls for an independent inquiry into the coronavirus pandemic, which was first detected in the Chinese city of Wuhan last year.&nbsp;

China, Australia's biggest trading partner, has since threatened economic blowback on Australian goods including barley and beef as well as tourism and higher education.&nbsp;

Most recently Beijing launched a probe into Australia wine, alleging the country was selling to China for less than it cost at home -- a claim rejected by the Australian government.&nbsp;

Australia said Tuesday it "would be contrary to national interests" to allow a Chinese firm to buy a major dairy producer, the latest sign of souring relations between the two countries.

Australia said Tuesday it "would be contrary to national interests" to allow a Chinese firm to buy a major dairy producer, the latest sign of souring relations between the two countries. The $430 million sale of Lion Dairy and Drinks, currently owned by Japan's Kirin, to Mengniu Dairy had been awaiting regulatory approval since November, but the Chinese firm pulled out of the deal Tuesday. "Given this approval is unlikely to be forthcoming at this time, Lion and Mengniu Dairy have mutually agreed to cease the current sale process," Lion said in a statement. Also read: Why Australia has more to lose than China in trade row Although Australia's consumer watchdog had earlier cleared the deal, Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said in a statement on Tuesday that the sale "would be contrary to the national interest". The Australian Financial Review newspaper reported that Frydenberg's stance was against the advice of the Foreign Investment Review Board and his own department. Earlier this year the Australian government moved to tighten rules covering foreign investment in the country, with temporary measures allowing increased oversight on takeovers of local firms during the pandemic. Just last year, Inner Mongolia-headquartered Mengniu was given approval to purchase of one Australia's largest baby formula manufacturers, Bellamy's. Relations between China and Australia continue to worsen since Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison joined US calls for an independent inquiry into the coronavirus pandemic, which was first detected in the Chinese city of Wuhan last year. China, Australia's biggest trading partner, has since threatened economic blowback on Australian goods including barley and beef as well as tourism and higher education. Most recently Beijing launched a probe into Australia wine, alleging the country was selling to China for less than it cost at home -- a claim rejected by the Australian government.

Australia blocks Chinese firm's bid to buy major dairy firm

Antarctic air reaching&nbsp;Australia's south east triggered snowfall down to low altitudes across several states on Saturday, with many people out enjoying the rare event despite wild winds and heavy snow that closed some roads.

Pictures of snowy towns and landscapes across New South Wales (NSW), Victoria, the&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;Capital Territory and the island state of Tasmania flooded social media as locals rushed to capture the surprise early spring snowfall.

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Does it normally snow in Australia in August? Seems odd… <a href="https://t.co/EYHOqYj2kh">https://t.co/EYHOqYj2kh</a>
— Michael Moran (@TheMichaelMoran) <a href="https://twitter.com/TheMichaelMoran/status/1297065929440886784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2020</a></blockquote>
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According to the NSW Bureau of Meteorology, Australia’s capital city of Canberra is set to experience its “coldest day” of the year.

Over one metre (3.3 feet) of snow had fallen in a number of alpine regions, and the cold weather would likely remain for several days, the bureau said.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Snow?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Snow</a> has made for some beautiful scenes at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MtMacedon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MtMacedon</a> this morning. ❄️ These wintry conditions are set to hang around for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vic?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vic</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NSW</a> all weekend. Is there more snow on the way for you? You can find out by using <a href="https://t.co/CX9zhCmju3">https://t.co/CX9zhCmju3</a>. <a href="https://t.co/gmuicINPyM">pic.twitter.com/gmuicINPyM</a>
— Bureau of Meteorology, Australia (@BOM_au) <a href="https://twitter.com/BOM_au/status/1296940464780845056?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The wintry blast caused temperatures to fall overnight to as low as 2 Degree Celsius in Victoria&nbsp;and 3.8 Degree Celsius in Melbourne.

The sudden snowfall in the east coast has been caused by an ‘Antarctic blob’, a strong and powerful weather system, which has also brought icy winds, thunder and hail to elevated areas in the region.

The blizzard-like conditions prompted local authorities to close several roads across New South Wales’ Central West and Southern Highlands.

Antarctic air reaching Australia's south east triggered snowfall down to low altitudes across several states on Saturday, with many people out enjoying the rare event despite wild winds and heavy snow that closed some roads.

Antarctic air reaching Australia's south east triggered snowfall down to low altitudes across several states on Saturday, with many people out enjoying the rare event despite wild winds and heavy snow that closed some roads. Pictures of snowy towns and landscapes across New South Wales (NSW), Victoria, the Australia Capital Territory and the island state of Tasmania flooded social media as locals rushed to capture the surprise early spring snowfall. Does it normally snow in Australia in August? Seems odd… https://t.co/EYHOqYj2kh — Michael Moran (@TheMichaelMoran) August 22, 2020 × According to the NSW Bureau of Meteorology, Australia’s capital city of Canberra is set to experience its “coldest day” of the year. Over one metre (3.3 feet) of snow had fallen in a number of alpine regions, and the cold weather would likely remain for several days, the bureau said. #Snow has made for some beautiful scenes at #MtMacedon this morning. ❄️ These wintry conditions are set to hang around for #Vic and #NSW all weekend. Is there more snow on the way for you? You can find out by using https://t.co/CX9zhCmju3. pic.twitter.com/gmuicINPyM — Bureau of Meteorology, Australia (@BOM_au) August 21, 2020 × The wintry blast caused temperatures to fall overnight to as low as 2 Degree Celsius in Victoria and 3.8 Degree Celsius in Melbourne. The sudden snowfall in the east coast has been caused by an ‘Antarctic blob’, a strong and powerful weather system, which has also brought icy winds, thunder and hail to elevated areas in the region. The blizzard-like conditions prompted local authorities to close several roads across New South Wales’ Central West and Southern Highlands.

Polar winds trigger rare snowfall across southeast Australia

A fresh outbreak of infections in Australia's coronavirus hot zone of Victoria appeared to have eased on Wednesday, as the country signed a deal to secure a potential COVID-19 vaccine that it intends to roll out free of cost to its citizens.

Australia has signed a deal with British drugmaker AstraZeneca&nbsp;to produce and distribute enough doses of a potential coronavirus vaccine for its population of 25 million, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said late on Tuesday.

The Australian government estimates that up to 95 percent of the population would need to be immune to the virus for it to be irradicated.

All Australians will be offered doses but a medical panel will determine the priority list of vaccine recipients, Health Minister Greg Hunt said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-to-manufacture-coronavirus-vaccine-and-inoculate-people-for-free-says-pm-morrison-321505" hreflang="en">We will manufacture virus vaccine and inoculate people for free: Australian PM</a>

"Naturally you would be focusing on the most vulnerable, the elderly, health workers, people with disabilities in terms of the speed of roll out, but I think there would be widespread uptake in Australia," Hunt said.

AstraZeneca last month said good data was coming in so far on its vaccine for COVID-19, already in large-scale human trials and widely seen as the front-runner in the race for a shot against the novel coronavirus.

The vaccine, called AZD1222, was developed by Britain`s University of Oxford and licensed to AstraZeneca.

The coronavirus pandemic, which has killed more than 400 Australians, has coincided with a sharp uptick in online misinformation, speculation and opposition to vaccines, something experts have dubbed an "infodemic".&nbsp;

A flare up in infections in Australia`s second most populous state of Victoria forced authorities two weeks ago to impose a nightly curfew, tighten restrictions on people`s movements and order large parts of the state's economy to close.

The southeastern state has seen a slowdown in new cases in recent days, allaying fears of a nationwide second wave of infections. 
Victoria reported 216 new daily cases in the last 24 hours compared with 222 a day earlier. It reported 12 deaths compared with 17 on Tuesday.

Despite seeing a surge of new infections in the past month, Australia has largely avoided the high casualties of other nations with just under 24,000 infections and 450 deaths from the virus.

A fresh outbreak of infections in Australia's coronavirus hot zone of Victoria appeared to have eased on Wednesday, as the country signed a deal to secure a potential COVID-19 vaccine that it intends to roll out free of cost to its citizens.

A fresh outbreak of infections in Australia's coronavirus hot zone of Victoria appeared to have eased on Wednesday, as the country signed a deal to secure a potential COVID-19 vaccine that it intends to roll out free of cost to its citizens. Australia has signed a deal with British drugmaker AstraZeneca to produce and distribute enough doses of a potential coronavirus vaccine for its population of 25 million, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said late on Tuesday. The Australian government estimates that up to 95 percent of the population would need to be immune to the virus for it to be irradicated. All Australians will be offered doses but a medical panel will determine the priority list of vaccine recipients, Health Minister Greg Hunt said. Also read: We will manufacture virus vaccine and inoculate people for free: Australian PM "Naturally you would be focusing on the most vulnerable, the elderly, health workers, people with disabilities in terms of the speed of roll out, but I think there would be widespread uptake in Australia," Hunt said. AstraZeneca last month said good data was coming in so far on its vaccine for COVID-19, already in large-scale human trials and widely seen as the front-runner in the race for a shot against the novel coronavirus. The vaccine, called AZD1222, was developed by Britain`s University of Oxford and licensed to AstraZeneca. The coronavirus pandemic, which has killed more than 400 Australians, has coincided with a sharp uptick in online misinformation, speculation and opposition to vaccines, something experts have dubbed an "infodemic". A flare up in infections in Australia`s second most populous state of Victoria forced authorities two weeks ago to impose a nightly curfew, tighten restrictions on people`s movements and order large parts of the state's economy to close. The southeastern state has seen a slowdown in new cases in recent days, allaying fears of a nationwide second wave of infections. Victoria reported 216 new daily cases in the last 24 hours compared with 222 a day earlier. It reported 12 deaths compared with 17 on Tuesday. Despite seeing a surge of new infections in the past month, Australia has largely avoided the high casualties of other nations with just under 24,000 infections and 450 deaths from the virus.

Australia locks in coronavirus vaccine deal as new cases ease

As Australia recorded the highest single-day spike of coronavirus cases, the Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced on Monday that the internal city borders will stay sealed, until further notice.

Australia records biggest daily rise in COVID-19 deaths

Heavy rains and strong winds have been lashing Australia's eastern coast and housing properties on the beaches stand at the risk of being swept away. Watch report.

Devastating storm lashes Australia's eastern coast

Australian scientists said on Wednesday they have given five fly species scientific names that pay tribute to the Marvel comic universe.

The five flies were part of 165 discoveries named by the scientists over the past year, which included two fish, three subspecies of bird, and even a mite that lives on a lizard, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) said in a report.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-deploys-disaster-teams-to-virus-hit-care-homes-316704" hreflang="en">Australia deploys disaster teams to virus-hit care homes</a>

“Naming a species is the first step to understanding that species,” said CSIRO entomologist Dr Bryan Lessard. “Without a scientific name, these species are invisible to science.”

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Morning <a href="https://twitter.com/chrishemsworth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chrishemsworth</a>! Check out your new assassin fly species 'bronteflavus', meaning blond thunder named by <a href="https://twitter.com/TheScienceRobin?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheScienceRobin</a> from our team at <a href="https://twitter.com/CSIRO?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CSIRO</a>. <a href="https://t.co/DYzePzZruQ">https://t.co/DYzePzZruQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/YR2LFeVYVD">pic.twitter.com/YR2LFeVYVD</a>
— Dr Bryan Lessard (@BrytheFlyGuy) <a href="https://twitter.com/BrytheFlyGuy/status/1288254952070995968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Stan Lee’s fly was named for characteristic markings that look like the comic titan’s sunglasses and white moustache, while the Deadpool’s fly has marks on its back that resemble the character’s red-and-black mask, CSIRO said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-australia-seek-new-military-cooperation-as-tensions-soar-with-china-316595">US, Australia seek new military cooperation as tensions soar with China</a>

“We chose the name Humorolethalis sergius,” Lessard said, referring to the Deadpool’s fly. “It sounds like lethal humour and is derived from the Latin words humorosus, meaning wet or moist, and lethalis meaning dead.”

All five species are robber flies, which are assassins of the insect world, according to CSIRO.

While two species are named after wise-cracking anti-hero Deadpool and another after superhero creator Stan Lee, the other three are named for Marvel characters Loki, Thor and Black Widow.

Naming new species is fun but can also be vital for saving human lives and species, said CSIRO bee and wasp expert Dr Juanita Rodriguez.

“We discovered a new species of spider wasp that is only found in an area badly impacted by bushfires this summer, so now we can carefully monitor its recovery,” Rodriguez said. “Spider wasps have venom that could be useful for treating Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy.”

Australian scientists said on Wednesday they have given five fly species scientific names that pay tribute to the Marvel comic universe. The five flies were part of 165 discoveries named by the scientists over the past year, which included two fish, three subspecies of bird, and even a mite that lives on a lizard, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) said in a report.

Australian scientists said on Wednesday they have given five fly species scientific names that pay tribute to the Marvel comic universe. The five flies were part of 165 discoveries named by the scientists over the past year, which included two fish, three subspecies of bird, and even a mite that lives on a lizard, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) said in a report. Also read: Australia deploys disaster teams to virus-hit care homes “Naming a species is the first step to understanding that species,” said CSIRO entomologist Dr Bryan Lessard. “Without a scientific name, these species are invisible to science.” Morning @chrishemsworth! Check out your new assassin fly species 'bronteflavus', meaning blond thunder named by @TheScienceRobin from our team at @CSIRO. https://t.co/DYzePzZruQ pic.twitter.com/YR2LFeVYVD — Dr Bryan Lessard (@BrytheFlyGuy) July 28, 2020 × The Stan Lee’s fly was named for characteristic markings that look like the comic titan’s sunglasses and white moustache, while the Deadpool’s fly has marks on its back that resemble the character’s red-and-black mask, CSIRO said. Also read: US, Australia seek new military cooperation as tensions soar with China “We chose the name Humorolethalis sergius,” Lessard said, referring to the Deadpool’s fly. “It sounds like lethal humour and is derived from the Latin words humorosus, meaning wet or moist, and lethalis meaning dead.” All five species are robber flies, which are assassins of the insect world, according to CSIRO. While two species are named after wise-cracking anti-hero Deadpool and another after superhero creator Stan Lee, the other three are named for Marvel characters Loki, Thor and Black Widow. Naming new species is fun but can also be vital for saving human lives and species, said CSIRO bee and wasp expert Dr Juanita Rodriguez. “We discovered a new species of spider wasp that is only found in an area badly impacted by bushfires this summer, so now we can carefully monitor its recovery,” Rodriguez said. “Spider wasps have venom that could be useful for treating Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy.”

Australia names new species of flies after Marvel superheroes

Australia is set to face the largest budget deficit since World War II when the federal government hands down the country's economic standing on October 6. Watch report.

Australia's biggest deficit since world war 2

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday delayed the opening of parliament for several weeks as the new coronavirus continued spreading through the country's two most populous states.

Morrison asked the speaker of the parliament to cancel a two-week session due to start on August&nbsp;4, out of concern about the COVID-19 pandemic.

The request was seen as a formality as the speaker is a member of Morrison's Liberal Party and the opposition Labor Party accepted the call. Lawmakers are expected to meet in the capital Canberra on August 24 instead of August&nbsp;4.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-researchers-invent-20-minute-coronavirus-blood-test-313975">Australian researchers invent 20-minute coronavirus blood test</a>

"The government cannot ignore the risk to parliamentarians, their staff, the staff within the parliament and the broader community," Morrison said, adding he acted based on the advice of medical authorities.

On Friday, Victoria state reported a record 428 new infections, while neighbouring New South Wales said it was banning dancing, singing and mingling at weddings as authorities struggle to contain a new wave of infections.&nbsp;

Victoria forced nearly five million people into a partial lockdown for six weeks on July 9 in the country's second most-populous state, as expectations of harsher social-distancing restrictions were growing with the virus continuing to spread.

In March, all parliamentary sittings were cancelled until August, but as the risks from the coronavirus decreased in the following months, special sessions and some sittings took place.

Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese said his Labor party accepted the government's move to cancel the next sitting but said there should have been more opportunities for a discussion.

Australia's Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the government will issue further income support to tackle deteriorating confidence across the country, in addition to the already implemented A$70 billion ($49 billion) wage subsidy scheme.

"There's a lot of uncertainty in the economic environment and the Victorian situation is a significant setback," Frydenberg told The Age newspaper in an interview published on Saturday.

"It's diminished confidence beyond the Victorian border and the recovery is a confidence game. So, maintaining business and household confidence is going to be critical."

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday delayed the opening of parliament for several weeks as the new coronavirus continued spreading through the country's two most populous states.

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday delayed the opening of parliament for several weeks as the new coronavirus continued spreading through the country's two most populous states. Morrison asked the speaker of the parliament to cancel a two-week session due to start on August 4, out of concern about the COVID-19 pandemic. The request was seen as a formality as the speaker is a member of Morrison's Liberal Party and the opposition Labor Party accepted the call. Lawmakers are expected to meet in the capital Canberra on August 24 instead of August 4. Also read: Australian researchers invent 20-minute coronavirus blood test "The government cannot ignore the risk to parliamentarians, their staff, the staff within the parliament and the broader community," Morrison said, adding he acted based on the advice of medical authorities. On Friday, Victoria state reported a record 428 new infections, while neighbouring New South Wales said it was banning dancing, singing and mingling at weddings as authorities struggle to contain a new wave of infections. Victoria forced nearly five million people into a partial lockdown for six weeks on July 9 in the country's second most-populous state, as expectations of harsher social-distancing restrictions were growing with the virus continuing to spread. In March, all parliamentary sittings were cancelled until August, but as the risks from the coronavirus decreased in the following months, special sessions and some sittings took place. Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese said his Labor party accepted the government's move to cancel the next sitting but said there should have been more opportunities for a discussion. Australia's Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the government will issue further income support to tackle deteriorating confidence across the country, in addition to the already implemented A$70 billion ($49 billion) wage subsidy scheme. "There's a lot of uncertainty in the economic environment and the Victorian situation is a significant setback," Frydenberg told The Age newspaper in an interview published on Saturday. "It's diminished confidence beyond the Victorian border and the recovery is a confidence game. So, maintaining business and household confidence is going to be critical."

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison delays parliament due to COVID-19 spread

Australia approved the anti-viral drug&nbsp;remdesivir&nbsp;for the treatment of COVID-19 on Friday following a similar decision from the European Commission.

It is the first drug approved by Australian authorities to treat the virus and&nbsp;promised to reduce hospitalisation time for coronavirus patients, Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration(TGA) said in a statement.

"By reducing recovery times, patients will be able to leave hospital earlier, freeing beds for those in need," the TGA said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-purchases-almost-entire-global-stock-of-potential-covid-19-cure-remdesivir-309844">US purchases almost entire global stock of potential COVID-19 cure Remdesivir</a>

The drug was given provisional approval for adults and adolescent patients and would be limited to those severely unwell from the virus, needing help to breathe and in hospital care, the authority noted.

"While this is a major milestone in Australia's struggle against the pandemic, it is important to emphasise that the product has not been shown to prevent coronavirus infection or relieve milder cases of infection."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gileads-remdesivir-prevents-lung-damage-in-covid-19-study-on-monkeys-304645">Gilead's remdesivir prevents lung damage in COVID-19 study on monkeys</a>

The decision comes after the EU's executive arm cleared the drug, which was originally intended as a treatment for Ebol,&nbsp;for use while Washington bought up almost all supplies.

Recently the US said it had purchased 92 percent of all remdesivir from its producer, Gilead Sciences, until the end of September, about 500,000 treatments out of nearly 550,000.

Several other Asian nations have also approved the drug for treatment against COVID-19.

Australia's call to approve the drug was made on "preliminary clinical data" and aided by reports from the EU's European Medicines Agency and Singapore's Health Sciences Authority.

Australia approved the anti-viral drug remdesivir for the treatment of COVID-19 on Friday following a similar decision from the European Commission. It is the first drug approved by Australian authorities to treat the virus and promised to reduce hospitalisation time for coronavirus patients, Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration(TGA) said in a statement.

Australia approved the anti-viral drug remdesivir for the treatment of COVID-19 on Friday following a similar decision from the European Commission. It is the first drug approved by Australian authorities to treat the virus and promised to reduce hospitalisation time for coronavirus patients, Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration(TGA) said in a statement. "By reducing recovery times, patients will be able to leave hospital earlier, freeing beds for those in need," the TGA said. Also read: US purchases almost entire global stock of potential COVID-19 cure Remdesivir The drug was given provisional approval for adults and adolescent patients and would be limited to those severely unwell from the virus, needing help to breathe and in hospital care, the authority noted. "While this is a major milestone in Australia's struggle against the pandemic, it is important to emphasise that the product has not been shown to prevent coronavirus infection or relieve milder cases of infection." Also read: Gilead's remdesivir prevents lung damage in COVID-19 study on monkeys The decision comes after the EU's executive arm cleared the drug, which was originally intended as a treatment for Ebol, for use while Washington bought up almost all supplies. Recently the US said it had purchased 92 percent of all remdesivir from its producer, Gilead Sciences, until the end of September, about 500,000 treatments out of nearly 550,000. Several other Asian nations have also approved the drug for treatment against COVID-19. Australia's call to approve the drug was made on "preliminary clinical data" and aided by reports from the EU's European Medicines Agency and Singapore's Health Sciences Authority.

Australia approves remdesivir as its first option for coronavirus treatment

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