Australia’s US Ambassador Kevin Rudd is facing calls to resign after his slew of disparaging comments against President-elect Donald Trump resurfaced. Watch this report for more details!

Australia's US Ambassador Kevin Rudd Faces Calls to Resign

<p>A 52-year-old man became the first Victorian to be convicted of exit trafficking after he allegedly tricked his wife into travelling to Sudan after holding back her passport and children.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When a person gets threatened, tricked or manipulated to leave Australia without their will, it's called exit trafficking.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man has been sentenced to 4.5 years in prison.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man had pleaded not guilty of the charges and leaving his wife abandoned in Sudan for 16 months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In his ruling, Judge Frank Gucciardo said the man's offending “required a degree of planning," The Guardian reported.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"You treated her as a chattel that could be simply discarded. She was grief-stricken and traumatised by the departure of her children with you,"&nbsp;the judge said&nbsp;to the man while convicting him.</p>

<p>The accused man must serve at least three years and three months in jail to be eligible for parole.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the hearing on Tuesday (Nov 12), the judge said the man "intentionally misled" his wife to believe she had a valid visa to return to Australia when they travelled to Sudan in 2014.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“What you had not told her was, in June 2014, you had withdrawn the visa and her application for a visa would be under threat,” the judge said, according to The Guardian.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The man travelled with his wife saying it was for a holiday but later, he flew to Sudan with their 2 children without informing her.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/philippines-readies-to-face-fifth-storm-in-one-month-typhoon-usagi-to-make-landfall-soon-775461">Philippines readies to face fifth storm in one month; Typhoon Usagi to make landfall soon</a></strong></p>

<p>The judge further said that the woman would not have left Sudan if she had any clue about her visa status.</p>

<p>The court also highlighted the "aggressive factor" in the offending, depriving the children (Both under 2) of their mother.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He further added that the “abrupt separation” from her children had caused the woman “immense physical pain and agony”.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 52-year-old man became the first Victorian to be convicted of exit trafficking after he allegedly tricked his wife into travelling to Sudan after holding back her passport and children.

A 52-year-old man became the first Victorian to be convicted of exit trafficking after he allegedly tricked his wife into travelling to Sudan after holding back her passport and children. When a person gets threatened, tricked or manipulated to leave Australia without their will, it's called exit trafficking. The man has been sentenced to 4.5 years in prison. The man had pleaded not guilty of the charges and leaving his wife abandoned in Sudan for 16 months. In his ruling, Judge Frank Gucciardo said the man's offending “required a degree of planning," The Guardian reported. Also read | Mauritius opposition leader claims sweeping vote win "You treated her as a chattel that could be simply discarded. She was grief-stricken and traumatised by the departure of her children with you," the judge said to the man while convicting him. The accused man must serve at least three years and three months in jail to be eligible for parole. During the hearing on Tuesday (Nov 12), the judge said the man "intentionally misled" his wife to believe she had a valid visa to return to Australia when they travelled to Sudan in 2014. “What you had not told her was, in June 2014, you had withdrawn the visa and her application for a visa would be under threat,” the judge said, according to The Guardian. The man travelled with his wife saying it was for a holiday but later, he flew to Sudan with their 2 children without informing her. Also read | Philippines readies to face fifth storm in one month; Typhoon Usagi to make landfall soon The judge further said that the woman would not have left Sudan if she had any clue about her visa status. The court also highlighted the "aggressive factor" in the offending, depriving the children (Both under 2) of their mother. He further added that the “abrupt separation” from her children had caused the woman “immense physical pain and agony”. (With inputs from agencies)

Victorian man tricks wife to leave Australia, jailed for exit trafficking

Staff in Australia's parliament filed 30 complaints of major workplace offenses, including sexual assault, over the course of nine months, according to the Sydney Morning Herald, as the legislature grapples with a wave of crises.

Australian Parliament Staff Report Workplace Offences

<p>Canada has blocked social media pages of Australia Today, a prominent media outlet, India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday (Nov. 7), stressing that this highlights the hypocrisy of Canada’s 'freedom of speech'.</p>

<p>This comes after the presser&nbsp;of India’s EAM Jaishankar and his Australian counterpart Penny&nbsp;Wong was covered by Australia Today.</p>

<p>“We understand that social media pages have been blocked. This happened hours after EAM Jaishankar, Australia FM Wong's presser. We were surprised. Highlights the hypocrisy of Canada's freedom of speech,” Randhir Jaiswal said during a weekly briefing.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Canada blocks Indian diaspora media outlet hours after Jaishankar's press conference in Australia; India slams hypocrisy on free speech<br />
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.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Canada?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Canada</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Australia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Australia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SJaishankar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SJaishankar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaCanada?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaCanada</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/JustinTrudeau?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#JustinTrudeau</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AustraliaToday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AustraliaToday</a> <a href="https://t.co/DuBebrPIWx">pic.twitter.com/DuBebrPIWx</a></p>
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<p>Further, condemning the attack on the Hindu temple in Canada’s Brampton, Jaiswal said, “We condemn the attack on the temple in Brampton. We also called upon the Canadian government to uphold the rule of law and to bring to justice people who perpetrated the violence. We hope the Canadian government will take due action."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/eam-jaishankar-slams-canadas-double-standards-on-free-speech-as-india-canada-relations-hit-new-low-769523"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;EAM Jaishankar slams Canada’s ‘double standards’ on free speech as India-Canada relations hit new low</strong></a></p>

<p>As tensions between India and Canada soar, Jaiswal said that the consular services have faced a setback due to security reasons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He highlighted that a recent consular camp in Canada was cancelled, saying that there were inadequate security provisions from the Canadian authorities.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;India-Canada Diplomatic Row: India Lodges Strong Protest Against Canada</strong></p>

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<p>“Yes, our consular camp was cancelled because it did not get adequate security from the host government.” He further assured that similar consular operations would continue in other Canadian cities. “In other parts of Canada, like Vancouver, consular camps will continue,” he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I do understand that in other parts of Canada, Vancouver for example, the consular camps will be conducted. These consular camps are conducted at the request of the community organizations. So where the community organization is comfortable, we will go ahead with these consular camps,” Jaiswal added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Canada has blocked social media pages of Australia Today, a prominent media outlet, India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday (Nov.

Canada has blocked social media pages of Australia Today, a prominent media outlet, India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Thursday (Nov. 7), stressing that this highlights the hypocrisy of Canada’s 'freedom of speech'. This comes after the presser of India’s EAM Jaishankar and his Australian counterpart Penny Wong was covered by Australia Today. “We understand that social media pages have been blocked. This happened hours after EAM Jaishankar, Australia FM Wong's presser. We were surprised. Highlights the hypocrisy of Canada's freedom of speech,” Randhir Jaiswal said during a weekly briefing. Canada blocks Indian diaspora media outlet hours after Jaishankar's press conference in Australia; India slams hypocrisy on free speech . . . .#Canada #Australia #India #SJaishankar #IndiaCanada #JustinTrudeau #AustraliaToday pic.twitter.com/DuBebrPIWx — WION (@WIONews) November 7, 2024 × Further, condemning the attack on the Hindu temple in Canada’s Brampton, Jaiswal said, “We condemn the attack on the temple in Brampton. We also called upon the Canadian government to uphold the rule of law and to bring to justice people who perpetrated the violence. We hope the Canadian government will take due action." Also read: EAM Jaishankar slams Canada’s ‘double standards’ on free speech as India-Canada relations hit new low As tensions between India and Canada soar, Jaiswal said that the consular services have faced a setback due to security reasons. He highlighted that a recent consular camp in Canada was cancelled, saying that there were inadequate security provisions from the Canadian authorities. Watch | India-Canada Diplomatic Row: India Lodges Strong Protest Against Canada × “Yes, our consular camp was cancelled because it did not get adequate security from the host government.” He further assured that similar consular operations would continue in other Canadian cities. “In other parts of Canada, like Vancouver, consular camps will continue,” he said. "I do understand that in other parts of Canada, Vancouver for example, the consular camps will be conducted. These consular camps are conducted at the request of the community organizations. So where the community organization is comfortable, we will go ahead with these consular camps,” Jaiswal added. (With inputs from agencies)

Canada censors Australia Today over Jaishankar’s presser, India blasts Ottawa’s ‘hypocrisy’

<p>Former England captain and talismanic match-winner Sir Ian Botham was saved from falling into crocodile-infested water after being rescued by Australia bowling veteran and Ashes rival Merv Hughes. The duo, friends since competing against each other during the 1980s, was on a four-day fishing trip in Australia’s Northern Territory.</p>

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<p>The England great Botham, 68, got his flip-flops stuck in a rope, falling into the crocodile-infested Moyle River and suffering bruises to his torso, with Bull sharks crowding the river, feeding on the scraps left behind by crocodiles.</p>

<p>“At the end of the day, Crocodile Beefy survived. I was out of the water quicker than I went in it. Quite a few sets of eyes were having a peep at me. Luckily, I had no time to think about what was in the water,” Botham said, as quoted by The Sun.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-to-not-travel-to-pakistan-for-champions-trophy-2025-bcci-pushes-for-neutral-venue-report-774646">India to not travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025; BCCI pushes for neutral venue - Report</a></strong></p>

<p>Meanwhile, Botham and Hughes were crossing a passage of water to join other members waiting at the other end when this incident occurred. Botham, who is in Australia for business and charity events, said it’s just one of those accidents and that he is safe and doing fine now.</p>

<p>“The guys were brilliant. It was just one of those accidents. It was all very quick, and I’m OK now,” Botham continued.</p>

<h2><strong>Two greats of the game</strong></h2>

<p>Botham and Hughes were headline makers back in the day, with their famous face-off coming during England’s 1986-87 away tour when Botham hit Hughes for 22 runs in an over during his final Test ton at the Gabba in Brisbane; however, Hughes took his revenge two years later, bowling Botham in his return innings at Edgbaston, the Ashes Australia won 4-0.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, both will return to the commentary box for the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2025, starting with the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth on November 22.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Former England captain and talismanic match-winner Sir Ian Botham was saved from falling into crocodile-infested water after being rescued by Australia bowling veteran and Ashes rival Merv Hughes.

Former England captain and talismanic match-winner Sir Ian Botham was saved from falling into crocodile-infested water after being rescued by Australia bowling veteran and Ashes rival Merv Hughes. The duo, friends since competing against each other during the 1980s, was on a four-day fishing trip in Australia’s Northern Territory. View this post on Instagram A post shared by IanBotham (@sirianbotham) × The England great Botham, 68, got his flip-flops stuck in a rope, falling into the crocodile-infested Moyle River and suffering bruises to his torso, with Bull sharks crowding the river, feeding on the scraps left behind by crocodiles. “At the end of the day, Crocodile Beefy survived. I was out of the water quicker than I went in it. Quite a few sets of eyes were having a peep at me. Luckily, I had no time to think about what was in the water,” Botham said, as quoted by The Sun. ALSO READ: India to not travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025; BCCI pushes for neutral venue - Report Meanwhile, Botham and Hughes were crossing a passage of water to join other members waiting at the other end when this incident occurred. Botham, who is in Australia for business and charity events, said it’s just one of those accidents and that he is safe and doing fine now. “The guys were brilliant. It was just one of those accidents. It was all very quick, and I’m OK now,” Botham continued. Two greats of the game Botham and Hughes were headline makers back in the day, with their famous face-off coming during England’s 1986-87 away tour when Botham hit Hughes for 22 runs in an over during his final Test ton at the Gabba in Brisbane; however, Hughes took his revenge two years later, bowling Botham in his return innings at Edgbaston, the Ashes Australia won 4-0. Meanwhile, both will return to the commentary box for the forthcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2025, starting with the first Test at the Optus Stadium in Perth on November 22. (With inputs from agencies)

Foes to friends: When Merv Hughes rescued Ian Botham from crocodile-infested water

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Thursday the government would legislate for a ban on social media for children under 16, a policy the government says is world-leading.

Australia Proposes Social Media Ban for Kids | GRAVITAS

<p>Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday (Nov 7) announced plans to legislate a ban on social media for children under 16. The ban touted as world-leading by the Australian government aims to curb the physical and mental health risks associated with social media use.</p>

<p>“Social media is doing harm to our kids and I'm calling time on it,” he said.</p>

<p>Albanese highlighted the potential harm caused by social media, including body image issues affecting young girls and exposure to misogynistic content for boys.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a class="WlydOe" data-sb="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-to-ban-social-media-use-for-kids-under-this-age-to-tackle-mental-health-crisis-757340&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiSgazNr8mJAxXsEVkFHVAlJooQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw2oCiUnRF5IBw1oRff6s52h" data-ved="2ahUKEwiSgazNr8mJAxXsEVkFHVAlJooQxfQBKAB6BAgQEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-to-ban-social-media-use-for-kids-under-this-age-to-tackle-mental-health-crisis-757340" jsname="YKoRaf">Australia to ban social media use for kids under THIS age to tackle mental health crisis</a> </strong></p>

<p>“If you're a 14-year-old kid getting this stuff, at a time where you're going through life's changes and maturing, it can be a really difficult time and what we're doing is listening and then acting,” he said.</p>

<h2><strong>Australia's social media ban</strong></h2>

<p>The ban, which could be enforced by the end of 2025, is part of a wider strategy involving an age-verification system currently under trial.</p>

<p>This legislation would require social media companies to actively prevent children from accessing their platforms, shifting the responsibility from parents or young people onto the tech companies themselves.</p>

<p>“The onus will be on social media platforms to demonstrate they are taking reasonable steps to prevent access,” said the Australian PM, adding, “The onus won't be on parents or young people.”</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a class="WlydOe" data-sb="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-this-country-will-increase-minimum-age-limit-to-use-social-media-to-15-to-protect-children-770305&amp;ved=2ahUKEwignbDir8mJAxUQMVkFHVsTF4kQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE&amp;usg=AOvVaw1cfyczDwhBFn71xb4tpHt4" data-ved="2ahUKEwignbDir8mJAxUQMVkFHVsTF4kQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-this-country-will-increase-minimum-age-limit-to-use-social-media-to-15-to-protect-children-770305" jsname="YKoRaf">This country will increase minimum age limit to use social media to 15 to protect children</a> </strong></p>

<p>The ban would apply to popular platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), along with YouTube, which would also likely fall under the new regulations, according to Communications Minister Michelle Rowland.</p>

<p>The opposition Liberal Party has expressed support for a ban.</p>

<p>Similar moves in other countries have typically allowed for parental consent to override age restrictions, as seen in France, or focused on data consent for younger users, as in the US. However, Australia's approach would bar any children under 16 from accessing social media, with no exemptions for children who have parental consent or those who already have accounts.</p>

<p>This means Australia's policy would be among the strictest globally.</p>

<p>The legislation will be introduced later this year, with enforcement expected a year after ratification.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday (Nov 7) announced plans to legislate a ban on social media for children under 16. The ban touted as world-leading by the Australian government aims to curb the physical and mental health risks associated with social media use.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Thursday (Nov 7) announced plans to legislate a ban on social media for children under 16. The ban touted as world-leading by the Australian government aims to curb the physical and mental health risks associated with social media use. “Social media is doing harm to our kids and I'm calling time on it,” he said. Albanese highlighted the potential harm caused by social media, including body image issues affecting young girls and exposure to misogynistic content for boys. Also read | Australia to ban social media use for kids under THIS age to tackle mental health crisis “If you're a 14-year-old kid getting this stuff, at a time where you're going through life's changes and maturing, it can be a really difficult time and what we're doing is listening and then acting,” he said. Australia's social media ban The ban, which could be enforced by the end of 2025, is part of a wider strategy involving an age-verification system currently under trial. This legislation would require social media companies to actively prevent children from accessing their platforms, shifting the responsibility from parents or young people onto the tech companies themselves. “The onus will be on social media platforms to demonstrate they are taking reasonable steps to prevent access,” said the Australian PM, adding, “The onus won't be on parents or young people.” Also read | This country will increase minimum age limit to use social media to 15 to protect children The ban would apply to popular platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter), along with YouTube, which would also likely fall under the new regulations, according to Communications Minister Michelle Rowland. The opposition Liberal Party has expressed support for a ban. Similar moves in other countries have typically allowed for parental consent to override age restrictions, as seen in France, or focused on data consent for younger users, as in the US. However, Australia's approach would bar any children under 16 from accessing social media, with no exemptions for children who have parental consent or those who already have accounts. This means Australia's policy would be among the strictest globally. The legislation will be introduced later this year, with enforcement expected a year after ratification. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia 'calls time' on social media, to ban use by children under 16: No parental exemptions

The Australian government has proposed a ban on social media for the children under the age of 16. This initiative will make Australia a leader in global efforts to protect young online users. Watch this to know more.

Australia Considers Ban On Social Media For Children Under 16 By 2025

An Australian man has developed a new machine that destroys weeds. Watch this report to see how this new technology could help change the game and improve crop yields.

Weed Terminator: New Way To Control Weeds

<p>Apple has launched a feature on its iMessage platform that will allow children to report nude images and videos to the tech firm that would then bring it to the notice of law enforcement agencies.</p>

<p>The change is being rolled out first in Australia from Thursday (Oct 24).</p>

<p>The beta release is part of an update of Apple's operating system and extends the safety measures earlier given to users aged under 13 since iOS 17.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Shocking Rise In AI-produced Child Abuse Material</strong></p>

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<p>Here is how the new feature aimed at further protecting user privacy will work:</p>

<p>The iPhones can automatically detect images and videos that contain nudity that children might receive or attempt to send in iMessage, AirDrop, FaceTime and Photos.</p>

<p>When such sensitive imagery is&nbsp;detected, the young users will be given intervention screens before they can proceed.</p>

<p>There will be options to contact a parent or guardian and to&nbsp;report the images and videos to Apple.</p>

<p>The device will then generate reports containing the visuals, as well as messages preceding and following the images and videos.</p>

<p>The report will include contact information of both the sender and receiver.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Users can fill out a form to explain what happened, which Apple will review.</p>

<p>Action such as disabling the users' ability to send messages through iMessage will follow.<br />
<br />
Apple can also report the issue to law enforcement agencies.</p>

<p>The tech giant said the feature will eventually be rolled out across the world after the beta test in Australia.</p>

<p>Australia was chosen as the first region in the wake of new rules being implemented in the country to crack down on controversial content on tech platforms and devices.</p>

<p>The new rules require companies to monitor child abuse and terror-related content on messaging and cloud services in Australia by the end of 2024.</p>

<p>While Apple maintains that the new features would&nbsp;protect end-to-end encryption and raised concerns about mass surveillance, the law has been softened a bit.</p>

<p>Yet, the&nbsp;Australian&nbsp;government insists that&nbsp;companies must&nbsp;take action to tackle child abuse and terror content.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-catholic-diocese-to-pay-323mn-to-530-child-sex-abuse-survivors-in-largest-diocese-bankruptcy-762507">New York Catholic diocese to pay $323mn to 530 child sex abuse survivors, in largest US diocese bankruptcy</a></strong></p>

<p>Apple has drawn criticism across the world over its reluctance to ease up on its end-to-end encryption to help law enforcement.</p>

<p>There was earlier a plan from Apple to scan photos and videos stored in its iCloud for child sexual abuse material (CSAM), but that was scrapped in late 2022 over privacy concerns.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/india-trumps-china-as-manufacturer-of-apples-most-expensive-iphone-pro-and-pro-max-models-751537"><strong>Also read: India trumps China as manufacturer of Apple's most expensive iPhone Pro and Pro Max models</strong></a><br />
<br />
In the UK, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children had accused Apple of vastly undercounting how often CSAM appears in its products, according to a report in The Guardian newspaper.</p>

<p>Apple reported only 267 cases of suspected CSAM on its platforms in 2023.</p>

<p>That's seen as a massive under-reporting when compared to Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, which submitted more than 30 million CSAM reports.<br />
<br />
Google sent nearly 1.5 million reports in the same period.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Apple has launched a feature on its iMessage platform that will allow children to report nude images and videos to the tech firm that would then bring it to the notice of law enforcement agencies.

Apple has launched a feature on its iMessage platform that will allow children to report nude images and videos to the tech firm that would then bring it to the notice of law enforcement agencies. The change is being rolled out first in Australia from Thursday (Oct 24). The beta release is part of an update of Apple's operating system and extends the safety measures earlier given to users aged under 13 since iOS 17. Watch: Shocking Rise In AI-produced Child Abuse Material × Here is how the new feature aimed at further protecting user privacy will work: The iPhones can automatically detect images and videos that contain nudity that children might receive or attempt to send in iMessage, AirDrop, FaceTime and Photos. When such sensitive imagery is detected, the young users will be given intervention screens before they can proceed. There will be options to contact a parent or guardian and to report the images and videos to Apple. The device will then generate reports containing the visuals, as well as messages preceding and following the images and videos. The report will include contact information of both the sender and receiver. Users can fill out a form to explain what happened, which Apple will review. Action such as disabling the users' ability to send messages through iMessage will follow. Apple can also report the issue to law enforcement agencies. The tech giant said the feature will eventually be rolled out across the world after the beta test in Australia. Australia was chosen as the first region in the wake of new rules being implemented in the country to crack down on controversial content on tech platforms and devices. The new rules require companies to monitor child abuse and terror-related content on messaging and cloud services in Australia by the end of 2024. While Apple maintains that the new features would protect end-to-end encryption and raised concerns about mass surveillance, the law has been softened a bit. Yet, the Australian government insists that companies must take action to tackle child abuse and terror content. Also read: New York Catholic diocese to pay $323mn to 530 child sex abuse survivors, in largest US diocese bankruptcy Apple has drawn criticism across the world over its reluctance to ease up on its end-to-end encryption to help law enforcement. There was earlier a plan from Apple to scan photos and videos stored in its iCloud for child sexual abuse material (CSAM), but that was scrapped in late 2022 over privacy concerns. Also read: India trumps China as manufacturer of Apple's most expensive iPhone Pro and Pro Max models In the UK, the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children had accused Apple of vastly undercounting how often CSAM appears in its products, according to a report in The Guardian newspaper. Apple reported only 267 cases of suspected CSAM on its platforms in 2023. That's seen as a massive under-reporting when compared to Meta, the owner of Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp, which submitted more than 30 million CSAM reports. Google sent nearly 1.5 million reports in the same period. (With inputs from agencies)

Now, children using iMessage platform can report nudity to Apple; feature rolls out in Australia

King Charles faced unexpected protest after the conclusion of a speech in the Australian Parliament. Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe challenged the Monarch's presence demanding a treaty and calling for the recognition of indigenous rights. Watch to know more.

Senator Lidia Thorpe Challenges King's Role

<p>On his first visit to Australia since becoming head of the state in September 2022, King Charles was heckled by Indigenous senator Lidia Thorpe&nbsp;just as he concluded his speech at Australia’s Parliament House in Canberra.&nbsp;</p>

<p>King Charles addressed MPs and senators in the Great Hall of Parliament House on Monday during his visit to the country. As he finished his speech about his school time in Australia, the COVID-19 pandemic, and climate issues, Lidia Thorpe approached the stage and started protesting.</p>

<p>Thorpe, an independent senator from Victoria and an advocate for Indigenous rights, verbally attacked King Charles and accused him of committing “genocide” against Indigenous people in Commonwealth countries. She demanded a treaty between the First Nations and the government.</p>

<p>“You committed genocide against our people. Give us our land back. Give us what you stole from us – our bones, our skulls, our babies, our people,” shouted Thorpe.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/australia-introduces-a-new-visa-regime-for-young-indians-767510">Australia introduces a new visa regime for young Indians</a></strong></p>

<p>“You destroyed our land. Give us a treaty. We want a treaty in this country. You are a genocidalist.”</p>

<p>As she was ushered outside the hall by security, she yelled, “This is not your land. You are not my king. You are not our king.”</p>

<p>During their five-day tour of Australia, Charles and Camilla faced some protests by the supporters of First Nations, who are opposing colonisation and displaying banners with “decolonise” written on them.</p>

<p>Despite some protests, many others were joyful to welcome the Royals as they waited outside the Parliament House. Charles and Camilla were greeted at the Parliament House by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-australia-ban-social-media-for-teens-fears-rise-of-move-isolating-them-768044">Will Australia ban social media for teens? Fears rise of move isolating them</a></strong></p>

<h2>Demand for republic state</h2>

<p>Before her protest in the parliament, Thorpe released a statement arguing that Australia should establish a treaty with First Nations people and become a republic state.</p>

<p>“As First Peoples, we never ceded our sovereignty over this land. The crown invaded this country, has not sought treaty with First Peoples, and committed a genocide of our people. King Charles is not the legitimate sovereign of these lands. Any move towards a republic must not continue this injustice. Treaty must play a central role in establishing an independent nation.”</p>

<p>Thorpe added, “Any move towards a republic must not continue this injustice. Treaty must play a central role in establishing an independent nation. A republic without a Treaty must not happen.”</p>

<p>Australia is a Commonwealth country under the monarch. However, recently there has been a debate about removing the monarch from the head of the state.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


On his first visit to Australia since becoming head of the state in September 2022, King Charles was heckled by Indigenous senator Lidia Thorpe just as he concluded his speech at Australia’s Parliament House in Canberra.

On his first visit to Australia since becoming head of the state in September 2022, King Charles was heckled by Indigenous senator Lidia Thorpe just as he concluded his speech at Australia’s Parliament House in Canberra. King Charles addressed MPs and senators in the Great Hall of Parliament House on Monday during his visit to the country. As he finished his speech about his school time in Australia, the COVID-19 pandemic, and climate issues, Lidia Thorpe approached the stage and started protesting. Thorpe, an independent senator from Victoria and an advocate for Indigenous rights, verbally attacked King Charles and accused him of committing “genocide” against Indigenous people in Commonwealth countries. She demanded a treaty between the First Nations and the government. “You committed genocide against our people. Give us our land back. Give us what you stole from us – our bones, our skulls, our babies, our people,” shouted Thorpe. Also read | Australia introduces a new visa regime for young Indians “You destroyed our land. Give us a treaty. We want a treaty in this country. You are a genocidalist.” As she was ushered outside the hall by security, she yelled, “This is not your land. You are not my king. You are not our king.” During their five-day tour of Australia, Charles and Camilla faced some protests by the supporters of First Nations, who are opposing colonisation and displaying banners with “decolonise” written on them. Despite some protests, many others were joyful to welcome the Royals as they waited outside the Parliament House. Charles and Camilla were greeted at the Parliament House by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and opposition leader Peter Dutton. Also read | Will Australia ban social media for teens? Fears rise of move isolating them Demand for republic state Before her protest in the parliament, Thorpe released a statement arguing that Australia should establish a treaty with First Nations people and become a republic state. “As First Peoples, we never ceded our sovereignty over this land. The crown invaded this country, has not sought treaty with First Peoples, and committed a genocide of our people. King Charles is not the legitimate sovereign of these lands. Any move towards a republic must not continue this injustice. Treaty must play a central role in establishing an independent nation.” Thorpe added, “Any move towards a republic must not continue this injustice. Treaty must play a central role in establishing an independent nation. A republic without a Treaty must not happen.” Australia is a Commonwealth country under the monarch. However, recently there has been a debate about removing the monarch from the head of the state. (With inputs from agencies)

‘You are not our king’: King Charles accused of ‘genocide’ by Australian senator

On Wings, we cover the Kumbh Mela, as preparations in full swing for the largest gathering of humanity on the planet. We highlight the improving Australia-India relationship with a new Working Holiday Visa that has become available for Indians. And our country in focus for the week, is Albania in the Balkans. Only on WION, World is One.

Preparations for Kumbh Mela - Wings S3 Ep51

During their official tour of Australia, the King and Queen were welcomed with a stunning light show at the Sydney Opera House. The dazzling display, which illuminated the iconic sails, celebrated Australian culture and the royal visit. The event drew large crowds, as the royal couple engaged with the public and took in the artistic tribute to their arrival.

King and Queen Greeted By Spectacular Light Show On Australia Tour

<p>The sails of the iconic Sydney Opera House were illuminated on Friday night with a photographic tribute to welcome King Charles and Queen Camilla, as they arrived in Australia on the first visit by a reigning British monarch in 13 years.</p>

<p>The royal couple arrived in Sydney on a Royal Australian Air Force plane on Friday evening and were greeted on the tarmac by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Australia's Governor-General Sam Mostyn, and the premier of New South Wales state Chris Minns.</p>

<p>King Charles carried an umbrella and chatted with the welcoming party, as rain cleared for the royals' arrival.</p>

<p>The couple later met with Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon at Admiralty House, a historic government foreshore residence overlooking Sydney Harbour and the opera house, where they will stay.</p>

<p>"Their Majesties have a deep regard for Australia, and this visit will be an opportunity to showcase the very best of our modern and dynamic nation," Albanese wrote on social media platform X, posting a photograph from Admiralty House.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-stand-in-the-way-king-charles-on-australia-becoming-a-republic-nation-766906"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;'Won't stand in the way': King Charles on Australia becoming a republic nation</strong></a></p>

<p>Sydney's Opera House displayed a photographic montage of King Charles's previous visits to Australia, where he attended school for six months as a teenager, and has returned more than a dozen times.</p>

<p>King Charles is making his inaugural visit to an overseas realm as sovereign, his first major foreign trip since being diagnosed with cancer.</p>

<p>Their trip will be shorter in time and the distance covered than typical royal tours, reflecting the care the king's medical team is taking with his health in light of his ongoing treatment.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Future Of Monarchy In Australia</strong></p>

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<p>The couple are visiting Sydney and Canberra over six days, before travelling to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa.</p>

<p>The official programme begins on Sunday in Sydney, before travelling to Canberra on Monday where the King and Queen will visit the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House. The public will have an opportunity to meet the royal couple at the Opera House forecourt in Sydney on Tuesday.</p>

<p>Earlier, the royal couple wrote on social media platform X, "We are really looking forward to returning to this beautiful country to celebrate the extraordinarily rich cultures and communities that make it so special."</p>

<p><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.</em></p>


The sails of the iconic Sydney Opera House were illuminated on Friday night with a photographic tribute to welcome King Charles and Queen Camilla, as they arrived in Australia on the first visit by a reigning British monarch in 13 years.

The sails of the iconic Sydney Opera House were illuminated on Friday night with a photographic tribute to welcome King Charles and Queen Camilla, as they arrived in Australia on the first visit by a reigning British monarch in 13 years. The royal couple arrived in Sydney on a Royal Australian Air Force plane on Friday evening and were greeted on the tarmac by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Australia's Governor-General Sam Mostyn, and the premier of New South Wales state Chris Minns. King Charles carried an umbrella and chatted with the welcoming party, as rain cleared for the royals' arrival. The couple later met with Albanese and his partner Jodie Haydon at Admiralty House, a historic government foreshore residence overlooking Sydney Harbour and the opera house, where they will stay. "Their Majesties have a deep regard for Australia, and this visit will be an opportunity to showcase the very best of our modern and dynamic nation," Albanese wrote on social media platform X, posting a photograph from Admiralty House. Also read: 'Won't stand in the way': King Charles on Australia becoming a republic nation Sydney's Opera House displayed a photographic montage of King Charles's previous visits to Australia, where he attended school for six months as a teenager, and has returned more than a dozen times. King Charles is making his inaugural visit to an overseas realm as sovereign, his first major foreign trip since being diagnosed with cancer. Their trip will be shorter in time and the distance covered than typical royal tours, reflecting the care the king's medical team is taking with his health in light of his ongoing treatment. Watch | Future Of Monarchy In Australia × The couple are visiting Sydney and Canberra over six days, before travelling to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa. The official programme begins on Sunday in Sydney, before travelling to Canberra on Monday where the King and Queen will visit the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House. The public will have an opportunity to meet the royal couple at the Opera House forecourt in Sydney on Tuesday. Earlier, the royal couple wrote on social media platform X, "We are really looking forward to returning to this beautiful country to celebrate the extraordinarily rich cultures and communities that make it so special." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Australia illuminates Sydney Harbour to welcome King Charles with photographic tribute

<p>An Australian man, Craig Laidley, who was swept out of the sea while saving the life of an unknown swimmer in Bali, has been found dead. The 56-year-old man was walking along the beach&nbsp;in Bali's&nbsp;Tabanan on Wednesday (Oct 16)&nbsp;afternoon when he heard the screaming of a swimmer&nbsp;drowning&nbsp;in the rough sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He managed to save the 29-year-old young German swimmer, Micro Stalla. However, Laidley&nbsp;got carried away in the sea. Witnesses said that both men reached the safety of a few rocks, but while Stalla was pulled out, a huge wave carried Laidley back to sea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Basarnas, the Indonesian search and rescue organisation, has confirmed that his body was found by residents on Friday (Oct 18) morning at Secret Bay Beach, one kilometre to the west of where he was last seen.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-says-all-okay-after-putins-comments-on-live-tv-fuel-health-rumours-768664">Kremlin says all okay after Putin’s comments on live TV fuel health rumours</a></strong></p>

<p>Laidley’s two sons and extended family expressed their heartbreak over his death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is no surprise to us that he put his life on the line to help another in need," said the family. It added, "His bravery and determination are a testament to his character. A man who brought kindness, strength, light and laughter to those around him."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Family also hoped that his act of bravery and kindness would inspire others. "We hope Craig’s spirit inspires others to act with courage, and selflessness and offer a helping hand to those in need,” said Laidley’s family.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They also thanked search and rescue teams, police, and the public who helped search Laidley. Mark Laidely, his cousin, paid tribute to a “hero [who] paid the ultimate price saving someone he didn’t even know”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/migrant-from-indias-bihar-killed-by-terrorists-in-j-ks-shopian-reports-768669">Migrant from India's Bihar killed by terrorists in J-K's Shopian: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>The Indonesian government offered its "deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time", said an official from the country's&nbsp;department of foreign affairs and trade.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nyoman Sidakarya, the chief of&nbsp;&nbsp;Denpasar Search and Rescue Office said that a team of 10 rescuers was employed to search for Laidely on sea and land since Wednesday night, but the mission got hampered because of dangerous seas.</p>

<p>Sidakarya also said&nbsp;when Laidley went missing, the waves were "extreme" off Bali’s west coast.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


An Australian man, Craig Laidley, who was swept out of the sea while saving the life of an unknown swimmer in Bali, has been found dead. The 56-year-old man was walking along the beach in Bali's Tabanan on Wednesday (Oct 16) afternoon when he heard the screaming of a swimmer drowning in the rough sea.

An Australian man, Craig Laidley, who was swept out of the sea while saving the life of an unknown swimmer in Bali, has been found dead. The 56-year-old man was walking along the beach in Bali's Tabanan on Wednesday (Oct 16) afternoon when he heard the screaming of a swimmer drowning in the rough sea. He managed to save the 29-year-old young German swimmer, Micro Stalla. However, Laidley got carried away in the sea. Witnesses said that both men reached the safety of a few rocks, but while Stalla was pulled out, a huge wave carried Laidley back to sea. Basarnas, the Indonesian search and rescue organisation, has confirmed that his body was found by residents on Friday (Oct 18) morning at Secret Bay Beach, one kilometre to the west of where he was last seen. Also Read | Kremlin says all okay after Putin’s comments on live TV fuel health rumours Laidley’s two sons and extended family expressed their heartbreak over his death. "It is no surprise to us that he put his life on the line to help another in need," said the family. It added, "His bravery and determination are a testament to his character. A man who brought kindness, strength, light and laughter to those around him." Family also hoped that his act of bravery and kindness would inspire others. "We hope Craig’s spirit inspires others to act with courage, and selflessness and offer a helping hand to those in need,” said Laidley’s family. They also thanked search and rescue teams, police, and the public who helped search Laidley. Mark Laidely, his cousin, paid tribute to a “hero [who] paid the ultimate price saving someone he didn’t even know”. Also Read | Migrant from India's Bihar killed by terrorists in J-K's Shopian: Reports The Indonesian government offered its "deepest condolences to the family at this difficult time", said an official from the country's department of foreign affairs and trade. Nyoman Sidakarya, the chief of Denpasar Search and Rescue Office said that a team of 10 rescuers was employed to search for Laidely on sea and land since Wednesday night, but the mission got hampered because of dangerous seas. Sidakarya also said when Laidley went missing, the waves were "extreme" off Bali’s west coast. (With inputs from agencies)

Dead body of Australian 'hero' found two days after he saved swimmer from drowning in Bali

<p>Tasmanian tiger, a marsupial apex predator, went extinct nearly a century ago. Now, scientists are closer than ever to reviving the animal through genome sequencing in a process similar to the fictional revival of dinosaurs in <em>Jurassic Park</em>.</p>

<p>The carnivore's genome has been reconstructed with 99.9% accuracy, the&nbsp;latest breakthrough in the years-long 'de-extinction' project.&nbsp;</p>

<p>There are only 45 gaps left to fill in the genome sequencing, which was made possible from a chance discovery of a head of the animal pickled in a jar in Australia some 110 years ago.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Gravitas: Scientists extract RNA from extinct Tasmanian tiger</strong></p>

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<p>Behind this mammoth task (pardon the pun) is Colossal Biosciences, a Texas-based firm that is also in the process of reviving the woolly mammoth and the dodo, a flightless bird that also went extinct over a century ago.</p>

<h2><strong>What happened to tasmanian tiger? An icon of extinction</strong></h2>

<p>The Tasmanian tiger or thylacine roamed the forests of Tasmania in Australia from where it takes its name.</p>

<p>Once a critical link in the ecosystem of Tasmania,&nbsp;they officially went extinct in 1936 after the last animal died at&nbsp;Beaumaris Zoo in Tasmania's Hobart.</p>

<p>Colossal teased that a major update is coming soon on the revival of the animal,&nbsp;whose scientific name is Thylacinus cynocephalus,</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">At <a href="https://twitter.com/sxswsydney?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sxswsydney</a> with <a href="https://twitter.com/AJ_Pask?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AJ_Pask</a>, and <a href="https://twitter.com/Hemsdog?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Hemsdog</a> sharing an update on our thylacine de-extinction project 🐅<br />
<br />
When an apex predator goes extinct, it has a cascading effect on the ecosystem. Prey populations go unchecked, diseases run rampant, plant life suffers—everything is thrown… <a href="https://t.co/ob8tP0A5lN">pic.twitter.com/ob8tP0A5lN</a></p>
— Colossal Biosciences® (@colossal) <a href="https://twitter.com/colossal/status/1847044711070003532?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/did-woolly-mammoth-go-extinct-because-of-a-blocked-nose-study-says-they-did-764159"><strong>Also read: Did woolly mammoth go extinct because of a blocked nose? Study says they did</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>A miracle in the making: How a head pickled in a jar could bring back extinct Tasmanian tiger </strong></h2>

<p>The Tasmanian tiger head recovered from the jar in Australia still had RNA molecules, which is crucial for rebuilding the genome. Using samples from the head, most of the DNA of the animal has been sequenced along with strands of RNA.</p>

<p>It was nothing short of a miracle, according to scientists involved in the project who spoke to media.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/in-jurassic-park-style-extinct-dodo-to-be-revived-scientists-say-667977">Also read: In 'Jurassic Park' style, extinct flightless bird dodo to be revived. Scientists say...</a></strong><br />
<br />
“This was the miracle that happened with this specimen. It blew my mind,” said&nbsp;Prof Andrew Pask, the head of the thylacine integrated genetic restoration research or Tigrr lab at the University of Melbourne.</p>

<p>“It was literally a head in a bucket of ethanol in the back of a cupboard that had just been dumped there with all the skin removed, and been sitting there for about 110 years,” The Guardian quoted Pask as saying. “It was pretty putrid, a completely gruesome sight. People had chopped large chunks off it.”&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Genome sequencing: A method of 'de-extinction' of the world's lost species?</strong></h2>

<p>“You absolutely can get a phenomenal genome from old samples,” Pesk told LiveScience.</p>

<p>DNA is the genetic material that is the fundamental building block of life. A genome is a full set of DNA that gives the unique charecteristsic to each organism. Genome contains the chemical information for development, growth and functioning of living beings.<br />
<br />
As Pesk puts it, genomes provide 'the full blueprint for de-extincting this species'.</p>

<p>Getting the complete genome sequencing at very high quality is a huge help to the efforts to revive extinct species, he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Tasmanian tiger, a marsupial apex predator, went extinct nearly a century ago. Now, scientists are closer than ever to reviving the animal through genome sequencing in a process similar to the fictional revival of dinosaurs in Jurassic Park.

Tasmanian tiger, a marsupial apex predator, went extinct nearly a century ago. Now, scientists are closer than ever to reviving the animal through genome sequencing in a process similar to the fictional revival of dinosaurs in Jurassic Park. The carnivore's genome has been reconstructed with 99.9% accuracy, the latest breakthrough in the years-long 'de-extinction' project. There are only 45 gaps left to fill in the genome sequencing, which was made possible from a chance discovery of a head of the animal pickled in a jar in Australia some 110 years ago. Watch: Gravitas: Scientists extract RNA from extinct Tasmanian tiger × Behind this mammoth task (pardon the pun) is Colossal Biosciences, a Texas-based firm that is also in the process of reviving the woolly mammoth and the dodo, a flightless bird that also went extinct over a century ago. What happened to tasmanian tiger? An icon of extinction The Tasmanian tiger or thylacine roamed the forests of Tasmania in Australia from where it takes its name. Once a critical link in the ecosystem of Tasmania, they officially went extinct in 1936 after the last animal died at Beaumaris Zoo in Tasmania's Hobart. Colossal teased that a major update is coming soon on the revival of the animal, whose scientific name is Thylacinus cynocephalus, At @sxswsydney with @AJ_Pask, and @Hemsdog sharing an update on our thylacine de-extinction project 🐅 When an apex predator goes extinct, it has a cascading effect on the ecosystem. Prey populations go unchecked, diseases run rampant, plant life suffers—everything is thrown… pic.twitter.com/ob8tP0A5lN — Colossal Biosciences® (@colossal) October 17, 2024 × Also read: Did woolly mammoth go extinct because of a blocked nose? Study says they did A miracle in the making: How a head pickled in a jar could bring back extinct Tasmanian tiger The Tasmanian tiger head recovered from the jar in Australia still had RNA molecules, which is crucial for rebuilding the genome. Using samples from the head, most of the DNA of the animal has been sequenced along with strands of RNA. It was nothing short of a miracle, according to scientists involved in the project who spoke to media. Also read: In 'Jurassic Park' style, extinct flightless bird dodo to be revived. Scientists say... “This was the miracle that happened with this specimen. It blew my mind,” said Prof Andrew Pask, the head of the thylacine integrated genetic restoration research or Tigrr lab at the University of Melbourne. “It was literally a head in a bucket of ethanol in the back of a cupboard that had just been dumped there with all the skin removed, and been sitting there for about 110 years,” The Guardian quoted Pask as saying. “It was pretty putrid, a completely gruesome sight. People had chopped large chunks off it.” Genome sequencing: A method of 'de-extinction' of the world's lost species? “You absolutely can get a phenomenal genome from old samples,” Pesk told LiveScience. DNA is the genetic material that is the fundamental building block of life. A genome is a full set of DNA that gives the unique charecteristsic to each organism. Genome contains the chemical information for development, growth and functioning of living beings. As Pesk puts it, genomes provide 'the full blueprint for de-extincting this species'. Getting the complete genome sequencing at very high quality is a huge help to the efforts to revive extinct species, he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Tasmanian tiger that went extinct may come back soon, thanks to a head in a bucket of ethanol

<p>The Australian government lowered the age of criminal responsibility once again in the country’s Northern Territory (NT), which will include the imprisonment of children as young as 10.</p>

<p>Australian states and territories have been under pressure to raise the age from 10 to 14 just like other developed countries but the NT government deemed its decision necessary to reduce youth crime rates. Last year the government in NT became the first jurisdiction to lift&nbsp;the threshold to 12 years, but the new County Liberal Party (CLP) elected in August made a U-turn from the previous decision.</p>

<p>The CLP has argued that returning the age to 10 will ultimately protect children- despite doctors, human rights organisations and Indigenous groups saying otherwise.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/australia-and-new-zealand/in-a-first-indian-origin-australian-senator-varun-ghosh-takes-oath-on-bhagavad-gita-687582">In a first, Indian-origin Australian Senator Varun Ghosh takes oath on 'Bhagavad Gita'</a></p>

<p>Various organisations have cited evidence that the laws will not reduce crime and will disproportionately affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. The NT already jails children at a rate 11 times higher than any other jurisdiction in the country, and almost all of them are Aboriginal.</p>

<h2><strong>Youth crime crisis in Australia</strong></h2>

<p>Australia has declared many places in the country are in the grip&nbsp;of a youth crime crisis. A series of violent incidents that happened this year even prompted several youth curfews in the NT city of Alice Springs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said her government had been given a mandate after their landslide election victory, and that the change of age to 10 would allow courts to put young offenders through programmes designed to address the root causes of their crimes. Statistics show break-in and assault offences as the most common crimes.</p>

<p>"We have this obligation to the child who has been let down in several ways, over a long period," she told the parliament on Thursday.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beyond-anyones-imaginations-australian-childcare-worker-charged-with-1623-child-abuse-offences-621293">'Beyond anyone's imaginations...': Australian childcare worker charged with 1,623 child abuse offences</a></p>

<p>"We make no apologies for delivering on our commitments to reduce crime for all Territorians," Finocchiaro added.</p>

<p>On the other hand, research both globally and in Australia has shown that imprisoning young children makes them more likely to offend and often has dire impacts on their health, education and employment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Opposition Leader Selena Uibo, who is the first and only Aboriginal woman to head a major party in Australia, said it was a "dark day" for the territory.</p>

<p>The change has yet to come into effect, as the NT parliament has only debated the bill this week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Australian government lowered the age of criminal responsibility once again in the country’s Northern Territory (NT), which will include the imprisonment of children as young as 10.

The Australian government lowered the age of criminal responsibility once again in the country’s Northern Territory (NT), which will include the imprisonment of children as young as 10. Australian states and territories have been under pressure to raise the age from 10 to 14 just like other developed countries but the NT government deemed its decision necessary to reduce youth crime rates. Last year the government in NT became the first jurisdiction to lift the threshold to 12 years, but the new County Liberal Party (CLP) elected in August made a U-turn from the previous decision. The CLP has argued that returning the age to 10 will ultimately protect children- despite doctors, human rights organisations and Indigenous groups saying otherwise. Also Read | In a first, Indian-origin Australian Senator Varun Ghosh takes oath on 'Bhagavad Gita' Various organisations have cited evidence that the laws will not reduce crime and will disproportionately affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. The NT already jails children at a rate 11 times higher than any other jurisdiction in the country, and almost all of them are Aboriginal. Youth crime crisis in Australia Australia has declared many places in the country are in the grip of a youth crime crisis. A series of violent incidents that happened this year even prompted several youth curfews in the NT city of Alice Springs. Chief Minister Lia Finocchiaro said her government had been given a mandate after their landslide election victory, and that the change of age to 10 would allow courts to put young offenders through programmes designed to address the root causes of their crimes. Statistics show break-in and assault offences as the most common crimes. "We have this obligation to the child who has been let down in several ways, over a long period," she told the parliament on Thursday. Also Read | 'Beyond anyone's imaginations...': Australian childcare worker charged with 1,623 child abuse offences "We make no apologies for delivering on our commitments to reduce crime for all Territorians," Finocchiaro added. On the other hand, research both globally and in Australia has shown that imprisoning young children makes them more likely to offend and often has dire impacts on their health, education and employment. Opposition Leader Selena Uibo, who is the first and only Aboriginal woman to head a major party in Australia, said it was a "dark day" for the territory. The change has yet to come into effect, as the NT parliament has only debated the bill this week. (With inputs from agencies)

This Australian state will resume jailing 10-year-olds amid 'youth crime crisis' in country

Australia's koala population is decreasing due to expanding cities, land clearance and the spread of chlamydia,---which is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by bacteria...and now scientists are hopeful their vaccine research may help save one of the country's most iconic animals...Watch in for more details!

Australia On A Mission To Save Koalas

<p>Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will use $100 million of taxpayer money&nbsp;to upgrade the main road which leads to his new $4.3 million beach house.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian PM held a press conference in June, where he spoke about the upgrade to Avoca Drive on the Central Coast.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It will be funded with $100 million in federal government money and $30 million in state funding.</p>

<p>Notably, Avoca Drive is the key road that Albanese would need to drive on to reach his new waterfront mansion.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-pm-anthony-albanese-faces-backlash-after-buying-luxurious-a43-home-767954"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Australian PM Anthony Albanese faces backlash after buying luxurious A$4.3 m home</strong></a></p>

<p>Albanese, when asked about the upgrade, said, “The Minister might want to respond there, but Avoca Drive, one of the times I was here I know that the surveying work has all been done. And I know that this is a real choke point, so it's very important, and that's why we've provided funding to make sure that it happens.”</p>

<p>Australia's Infrastructure and Transport Minister Catherine King said that planning work was still being finalised for an upgrade to Avoca Drive and that it was being done in conjunction with the New South Wales&nbsp;government.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Australian PM Anthony Albanese's Approval Rating Hits A New Low</strong></p>

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<p>She said that the construction was scheduled to start in the middle of next year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We provided additional money in the last Budget, $130 million has now been allocated for this project,” King said.</p>

<p>Albanese initially committed $30 million during the federal election campaign and then another $70 million in January 2023.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will use $100 million of taxpayer money to upgrade the main road which leads to his new $4.3 million beach house. The Australian PM held a press conference in June, where he spoke about the upgrade to Avoca Drive on the Central Coast.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will use $100 million of taxpayer money to upgrade the main road which leads to his new $4.3 million beach house. The Australian PM held a press conference in June, where he spoke about the upgrade to Avoca Drive on the Central Coast. It will be funded with $100 million in federal government money and $30 million in state funding. Notably, Avoca Drive is the key road that Albanese would need to drive on to reach his new waterfront mansion. Also read: Australian PM Anthony Albanese faces backlash after buying luxurious A$4.3 m home Albanese, when asked about the upgrade, said, “The Minister might want to respond there, but Avoca Drive, one of the times I was here I know that the surveying work has all been done. And I know that this is a real choke point, so it's very important, and that's why we've provided funding to make sure that it happens.” Australia's Infrastructure and Transport Minister Catherine King said that planning work was still being finalised for an upgrade to Avoca Drive and that it was being done in conjunction with the New South Wales government. Watch | Australian PM Anthony Albanese's Approval Rating Hits A New Low × She said that the construction was scheduled to start in the middle of next year. “We provided additional money in the last Budget, $130 million has now been allocated for this project,” King said. Albanese initially committed $30 million during the federal election campaign and then another $70 million in January 2023. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian PM to use $100mn for upgrading road that leads to his beach house

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<p><meta charset="utf-8" />For Tereza Hussein, a 14-year-old refugee who lives in Darwin, Australia's planned social media ban would mean losing a direct line to the most important person to her: a grandmother she has never physically met.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"It's the only way I've ever connected to my grandma before, over socials," said Hussein, who was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo but lived in a refugee camp in Malawi before settling in Australia when she was nine.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"It's going to have a very big change in my life because it's going to be hard for me to talk to the people that I've left behind," she said.</p>

<p>While Hussein rarely posts on social media, she uses Meta's&nbsp;Instagram and Snapchat primarily to view and discuss photos and videos from family and friends.</p>

<p>She represents what experts say is a blind spot in a plan by Australia's government to put an age minimum on social media in response to concerns about bullying, predatory grooming and physical and mental health.</p>

<p>For teenagers from migrant, LGBTQIA+ and other minority backgrounds, an age block could cut off access to essential social support.</p>

<p>Some 97% of Australian teenagers use social media across an average of four platforms, surveys show, making them among the world's most connected youth.</p>

<p>Nearly two-thirds of parents of Australian teenagers reported concerns about their children's social media use, according to a 2024 survey by youth service ReachOut.</p>

<p>Now the government wants to curb social media addiction by cutting the cord.</p>

<p dir="ltr">While the ban is yet to be legislated and at present lacks key details -- such as which ages and platforms it would affect -- the government's first step is to trial age verification.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Youth advocates, however, warn the ban will cut social connections for vulnerable youth and have instead called for tech platforms to better enforce safe interactions.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-american-billionaire-and-past-monk-investigated-for-tax-abuse-768017">Indian American billionaire and past monk, investigated for tax abuse</a></strong></p>

<p dir="ltr">"The ban is pretty much the opposite of what we would recommend," said Amelia Johns, an associate professor of digital media at University of Technology, Sydney, who studied migrant teens' social media use during COVID-19 lockdowns.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"Everyone is living on social media. For a lot of young people it's not an option to opt out, and I do wonder about the mental health consequences of a complete blanket ban."</p>

<p dir="ltr">So far, no country has rolled out an age-based ban targeting internet platforms. France and Britain have tested age verification but are yet to go live with a ban, while some U.S. states require age verification to access restricted content.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Australia plans to introduce legislation by the end of the year. While no lower age limit has been proposed, officials have suggested around 14 to 16.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"If I lost social media it would make me feel a lot more isolated," said Ben Kioko, a 14-year-old from Sydney who self-described as autistic and part of the LGBTQIA+ community.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"Since I struggle with mental health issues like anxiety and depression, it would make those a lot worse than they already are and could really affect my life long-term," he added.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is a key proponent of the ban.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"Parents want their kids off their phones and on the footy field, so do I," he said in September.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelensky-presents-much-awaited-victory-plan-whats-in-it-invitation-to-join-nato-and-more-768022">Zelensky presents much-awaited 'victory plan': What's in it? Request to join NATO, and more</a></strong></p>

<p>A spokesperson for Albanese didn't respond to Reuters' request for comment</p>

<p>Justine Humphry, a media researcher at University of Sydney who has published an online safety programme, said while social media companies should better protect teenagers, an outright ban was based on "nostalgia" for a childhood without screens that she described as "fiction".</p>

<p>Meta, which also owns Facebook and WhatsApp, declined to comment. It has said it supports protecting young users from harmful content and interactions but an age block should be the responsibility of smartphone makers.</p>

<p>The company upped privacy default settings for under-18 Instagram users this September and said those under 16 need parental approval to relax settings.</p>

<p>Alphabet (GOOGL.O), owner of YouTube, one of the most popular platforms for teenagers, declined to comment but said in a blog post it has features to give parents oversight of their children's use.</p>

<h2>'WORKAROUNDS'</h2>

<p dir="ltr">Elsewhere, no attempts to enforce age restrictions have succeeded partly due to access to virtual private networks (VPNs) that hide users' locations and personal information, experts said.</p>

<p dir="ltr">A report by former judge Robert French, commissioned by South Australia state to support its own separate plan for a teen social media ban, noted "there will undoubtedly be workarounds by knowledgeable child users".</p>

<p dir="ltr">A 2022 age verification trial in France, which wants social media restricted to 15 and above, found nearly half the country's teenagers could use VPNs, said Olivier Blazy, a computer scientist at Paris's Ecole Polytechnique who worked on the project.</p>

<p dir="ltr"><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/court-says-impeachment-proceedings-against-kenya-deputy-president-are-constitutional-768001">Court says impeachment proceedings against Kenya deputy president are constitutional</a></strong></p>

<p dir="ltr">Antonio Cesarano, product manager for Proton VPN, said customer numbers typically surged when restrictions were introduced.</p>

<p dir="ltr">In 2021, soon after YouTube started asking users for identification to view age-restricted content, a developer using the alias ZerodyOne posted software on open source website Github that helped users bypass the restrictions.</p>

<p dir="ltr">It has been downloaded about 2.5 million times, according to data shared by ZerodyOne, who gave only his first name, David.</p>

<p dir="ltr">Sydney high school student Enie Lam, 16, said she uses a VPN to bypass her school's wifi restrictions for school-assigned research like reading news articles online.</p>

<p dir="ltr">"I understand that using social media a lot is not a good thing and I'm working on it," she said. "But a ban is not going to work."</p>

<p dir="ltr"><em>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</em></p>


For Tereza Hussein, a 14-year-old refugee who lives in Darwin, Australia's planned social media ban would mean losing a direct line to the most important person to her: a grandmother she has never physically met.

For Tereza Hussein, a 14-year-old refugee who lives in Darwin, Australia's planned social media ban would mean losing a direct line to the most important person to her: a grandmother she has never physically met. "It's the only way I've ever connected to my grandma before, over socials," said Hussein, who was born in the Democratic Republic of Congo but lived in a refugee camp in Malawi before settling in Australia when she was nine. "It's going to have a very big change in my life because it's going to be hard for me to talk to the people that I've left behind," she said. While Hussein rarely posts on social media, she uses Meta's Instagram and Snapchat primarily to view and discuss photos and videos from family and friends. She represents what experts say is a blind spot in a plan by Australia's government to put an age minimum on social media in response to concerns about bullying, predatory grooming and physical and mental health. For teenagers from migrant, LGBTQIA+ and other minority backgrounds, an age block could cut off access to essential social support. Some 97% of Australian teenagers use social media across an average of four platforms, surveys show, making them among the world's most connected youth. Nearly two-thirds of parents of Australian teenagers reported concerns about their children's social media use, according to a 2024 survey by youth service ReachOut. Now the government wants to curb social media addiction by cutting the cord. While the ban is yet to be legislated and at present lacks key details -- such as which ages and platforms it would affect -- the government's first step is to trial age verification. Youth advocates, however, warn the ban will cut social connections for vulnerable youth and have instead called for tech platforms to better enforce safe interactions. Also Read | Indian American billionaire and past monk, investigated for tax abuse "The ban is pretty much the opposite of what we would recommend," said Amelia Johns, an associate professor of digital media at University of Technology, Sydney, who studied migrant teens' social media use during COVID-19 lockdowns. "Everyone is living on social media. For a lot of young people it's not an option to opt out, and I do wonder about the mental health consequences of a complete blanket ban." So far, no country has rolled out an age-based ban targeting internet platforms. France and Britain have tested age verification but are yet to go live with a ban, while some U.S. states require age verification to access restricted content. Australia plans to introduce legislation by the end of the year. While no lower age limit has been proposed, officials have suggested around 14 to 16. "If I lost social media it would make me feel a lot more isolated," said Ben Kioko, a 14-year-old from Sydney who self-described as autistic and part of the LGBTQIA+ community. "Since I struggle with mental health issues like anxiety and depression, it would make those a lot worse than they already are and could really affect my life long-term," he added. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is a key proponent of the ban. "Parents want their kids off their phones and on the footy field, so do I," he said in September. Also Read | Zelensky presents much-awaited 'victory plan': What's in it? Request to join NATO, and more A spokesperson for Albanese didn't respond to Reuters' request for comment Justine Humphry, a media researcher at University of Sydney who has published an online safety programme, said while social media companies should better protect teenagers, an outright ban was based on "nostalgia" for a childhood without screens that she described as "fiction". Meta, which also owns Facebook and WhatsApp, declined to comment. It has said it supports protecting young users from harmful content and interactions but an age block should be the responsibility of smartphone makers. The company upped privacy default settings for under-18 Instagram users this September and said those under 16 need parental approval to relax settings. Alphabet (GOOGL.O), owner of YouTube, one of the most popular platforms for teenagers, declined to comment but said in a blog post it has features to give parents oversight of their children's use. 'WORKAROUNDS' Elsewhere, no attempts to enforce age restrictions have succeeded partly due to access to virtual private networks (VPNs) that hide users' locations and personal information, experts said. A report by former judge Robert French, commissioned by South Australia state to support its own separate plan for a teen social media ban, noted "there will undoubtedly be workarounds by knowledgeable child users". A 2022 age verification trial in France, which wants social media restricted to 15 and above, found nearly half the country's teenagers could use VPNs, said Olivier Blazy, a computer scientist at Paris's Ecole Polytechnique who worked on the project. Also Read | Court says impeachment proceedings against Kenya deputy president are constitutional Antonio Cesarano, product manager for Proton VPN, said customer numbers typically surged when restrictions were introduced. In 2021, soon after YouTube started asking users for identification to view age-restricted content, a developer using the alias ZerodyOne posted software on open source website Github that helped users bypass the restrictions. It has been downloaded about 2.5 million times, according to data shared by ZerodyOne, who gave only his first name, David. Sydney high school student Enie Lam, 16, said she uses a VPN to bypass her school's wifi restrictions for school-assigned research like reading news articles online. "I understand that using social media a lot is not a good thing and I'm working on it," she said. "But a ban is not going to work." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Will Australia ban social media for teens? Fears rise of move isolating them

<p>After some beach closures and tense hours over hundreds of black balls washing up on Australian sea shores, the mystery appears to have been solved.</p>

<p>Earlier reported to be the result of a possible oil spill in the ocean or even speculated as dinosaur eggs, the black objects have now been identified as tar balls, reports said on Wednesday (Oct 16).</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Oil spill in Trinidad &amp; Tobago; 10 miles of coastline affected due to oil spillage</strong></p>

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<p>A tar ball is a hardened blob of petroleum. It can form naturally or as a result of oil spills and after floating in the waters for long periods of time. They are considered a pollutant.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-singapore-intensifies-clean-up-as-rare-oil-spill-prompts-closure-of-public-beach-732295/singapore-intensifies-clean-up-efforts-after-rare-oil-spill-732292"><strong>Also read: In pics | Singapore intensifies clean up as rare oil spill prompts closure of public beach</strong></a></p>

<p>Local news channel 9 News reported that Randwick City Council determined after tests that the objects were tar balls.</p>

<p>The council said preliminary test results from samples collected on Tuesday showed the balls were a hydrocarbon-based pollutant consistent with the makeup of tar balls, as was suspected, News.co.au said in an update.</p>

<p>Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker said council staff were working to remove the balls from the beaches.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/typhoon-gaemi-causes-ship-sinkings-and-major-oil-spill-risk-in-manila-bay-744126"><strong>Also read: Typhoon Gaemi: Oil tanker and cargo ship sink, huge oil spill risk in Manila Bay</strong></a><br />
<br />
"Our community is rightfully very protective of our natural environment and this has been a very concerning incident," 9 News&nbsp;quoted Parker as saying.</p>

<p>Since Tuesday when the balls were first noticed by lifeguards in Sydney's iconic Coogee beach, authorities had closed access to it, as well as the nearby Gordons Bay beach. Both beaches remained closed as of&nbsp;Wednesday evening.</p>

<p>Cleaning crews are at work to clear the debris.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


After some beach closures and tense hours over hundreds of black balls washing up on Australian sea shores, the mystery appears to have been solved. Earlier reported to be the result of a possible oil spill in the ocean or even speculated as dinosaur eggs, the black objects have now been identified as tar balls, reports said on Wednesday (Oct 16).

After some beach closures and tense hours over hundreds of black balls washing up on Australian sea shores, the mystery appears to have been solved. Earlier reported to be the result of a possible oil spill in the ocean or even speculated as dinosaur eggs, the black objects have now been identified as tar balls, reports said on Wednesday (Oct 16). Watch: Oil spill in Trinidad & Tobago; 10 miles of coastline affected due to oil spillage × A tar ball is a hardened blob of petroleum. It can form naturally or as a result of oil spills and after floating in the waters for long periods of time. They are considered a pollutant. Also read: In pics | Singapore intensifies clean up as rare oil spill prompts closure of public beach Local news channel 9 News reported that Randwick City Council determined after tests that the objects were tar balls. The council said preliminary test results from samples collected on Tuesday showed the balls were a hydrocarbon-based pollutant consistent with the makeup of tar balls, as was suspected, News.co.au said in an update. Randwick Mayor Dylan Parker said council staff were working to remove the balls from the beaches. Also read: Typhoon Gaemi: Oil tanker and cargo ship sink, huge oil spill risk in Manila Bay "Our community is rightfully very protective of our natural environment and this has been a very concerning incident," 9 News quoted Parker as saying. Since Tuesday when the balls were first noticed by lifeguards in Sydney's iconic Coogee beach, authorities had closed access to it, as well as the nearby Gordons Bay beach. Both beaches remained closed as of Wednesday evening. Cleaning crews are at work to clear the debris. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia solves mystery of black balls washing up after two Sydney beaches closed. Here is what they are

Things are looking down for Australia's prime minister. A poll has revealed that popularity ratings of Anthony Albanese has hit a new low. A fresh poll reveals that Albanese faces the lowest approval ratings since he became prime minister. Watch in for more details!

Australian PM Anthony Albanese's Approval Rating Hits A New Low

Australia has introduced a new 'Work and Holiday' visa program for Indian nationals, aimed at strengthening ties between the two countries and promoting cultural exchange. The program allows eligible young Indians to travel to Australia for up to one year, where they can work and holiday, providing opportunities for employment, tourism, and education. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance people-to-people connections and support the growing demand for skilled workers in Australia. The program also reflects Australia's commitment to fostering stronger bilateral relations with India.

Australia Working Holiday Maker Visa 2024: Over 40,000 Indian Applicants In 2 Week

Australia's conservative opposition coalition has pulled ahead of the Labour government for the first time since the May 2022 election, while ratings of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese fell to the lowest levels. Watch for more details!

Australian PM Anthony Albanese's Approval Rating Hits a New Low

Australia Launches 'Work and Holiday' Visa Program For Indians

A fresh controversy has erupted over official gifts received by UK's royal family, concerns have been raised about transparency and accountability in the monarchy of allegations that they have not revealed their official gifts from the past four years.

Buckingham Palace Asked To Disclose Gifts

The visit of King Charles and queen Camila to Australia later this month is being very keenly watched for more reasons than one. Now besides being a key international trip after his cancer diagnosis his reaction to the question of the fate of the monarchy in Australia is also gaining a lot of interest.

Future Of Monarchy In Australia

King's Reply To Republican Campaigners

<p>King Charles said that he would not stand in the way if Australia wished to become a republic and replace him as the country's head of state, according to media reports on Saturday (Oct 12).&nbsp;</p>

<p>King’s assistant private secretary Nathan Ross told the anti-monarchists:&nbsp;"His majesty, as a constitutional monarch, acts on the advice of his ministers and whether Australia becomes a republic is, therefore, a matter for the Australian public to decide.”</p>

<p>Ahead of King's visit later this month, he is said to be adopting an "anti-confrontational approach" to Australian republican campaigners, the Daily Mail reported.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In response to the Australian Republican Movement’s (ARM) request for a meeting with the monarch, the king’s assistant private secretary is understood to have emphasised his “deep love and affection” for Australia.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-king-charles-and-kate-middleton-received-nearly-30-000-messages-post-their-cancer-diagnosis-news-743850"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;King Charles and Kate Middleton received nearly 30,000 messages post their cancer diagnosis news</strong></a></p>

<p>The ARM said it is "the peak body advocating on behalf of the Australian people for an Australian republic with an Australian as our head of state”.</p>

<p>In 1999, Australia held a referendum on the issue of becoming a republic, in which 54.9 per cent voted against it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Anthony Albanese earlier said, "Australia should have an Australian as our head of state”, but recently indicated that a second referendum was not a priority.</p>

<p>A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said, "Like his mother before him, it has always been the case that his majesty the King feels that it is a matter for the Australian people.”</p>

<p>Graham Smith, the head of the British campaign group Republic is in Australia to protest against the monarchy during King Charles' visit. He said the main reaction to his trip had been one of "indifference and disinterest".&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I’ve been in Australia talking to friends, campaigners and others for the past two weeks. Most people are barely aware of the visit and couldn’t care less. I’m here to promote the UK campaign, to question how Charles can represent us and why he is making this very brief visit at great expense to Australian and British taxpayers," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I’m also here to say to Australians this isn’t an institution that deserves respect or deference, and that they shouldn’t believe for a moment that the UK is a nation of royalists. I’m hoping the visit will help influence the debate in both countries and highlight the irrelevance of the monarchy," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


King Charles said that he would not stand in the way if Australia wished to become a republic and replace him as the country's head of state, according to media reports on Saturday (Oct 12).

King Charles said that he would not stand in the way if Australia wished to become a republic and replace him as the country's head of state, according to media reports on Saturday (Oct 12). King’s assistant private secretary Nathan Ross told the anti-monarchists: "His majesty, as a constitutional monarch, acts on the advice of his ministers and whether Australia becomes a republic is, therefore, a matter for the Australian public to decide.” Ahead of King's visit later this month, he is said to be adopting an "anti-confrontational approach" to Australian republican campaigners, the Daily Mail reported. In response to the Australian Republican Movement’s (ARM) request for a meeting with the monarch, the king’s assistant private secretary is understood to have emphasised his “deep love and affection” for Australia. Also read: King Charles and Kate Middleton received nearly 30,000 messages post their cancer diagnosis news The ARM said it is "the peak body advocating on behalf of the Australian people for an Australian republic with an Australian as our head of state”. In 1999, Australia held a referendum on the issue of becoming a republic, in which 54.9 per cent voted against it. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese earlier said, "Australia should have an Australian as our head of state”, but recently indicated that a second referendum was not a priority. A Buckingham Palace spokesperson said, "Like his mother before him, it has always been the case that his majesty the King feels that it is a matter for the Australian people.” Graham Smith, the head of the British campaign group Republic is in Australia to protest against the monarchy during King Charles' visit. He said the main reaction to his trip had been one of "indifference and disinterest". “I’ve been in Australia talking to friends, campaigners and others for the past two weeks. Most people are barely aware of the visit and couldn’t care less. I’m here to promote the UK campaign, to question how Charles can represent us and why he is making this very brief visit at great expense to Australian and British taxpayers," he said. "I’m also here to say to Australians this isn’t an institution that deserves respect or deference, and that they shouldn’t believe for a moment that the UK is a nation of royalists. I’m hoping the visit will help influence the debate in both countries and highlight the irrelevance of the monarchy," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Won't stand in the way': King Charles on Australia becoming a republic nation

<p>A 34-year-old&nbsp;woman in Australia is fighting for her life&nbsp;after a brutal attack by her dog in North Queensland. The dog bit her arm off during the attack inside a house in the coastal city of Townsville. The emergency services were reportedly called around 7:00 am (local time) on Friday (Oct 11).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The woman had sustained 'life-threatening' injuries as her right arm below the elbow had been severely injured. However, the detached part was retrieved by the paramedics before she was rushed to a local hospital. The woman is said to be in a serious but stable condition.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The police had arrived to find the woman bleeding heavily outside the house, and the dog was believed to be a pit bull, said&nbsp;Senior Sgt Scott Warrick during a press conference.&nbsp;He said, "It was very angry, very aggressive... [it] was still trying to get outside."</p>

<p>After arriving at the scene, some officers barricaded the house while others applied a temporary bandage to the woman’s arm to stop bleeding until paramedics arrived.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hurricane-milton-florida-clearing-debris-as-monster-storm-passes-over-12-dead-766484">Hurricane Milton: Florida ‘clearing debris’ as monster storm passes over, 16 dead</a></strong></p>

<p>Sgt Warrick said, "I've been a police officer for 37 years... this is the first time I've gone to such a serious injury as a result of a dog attack. He added, "The injuries to this lady are just absolutely awful and we wish her a speedy recovery.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>He also stated that the dog was euthanised on the advice of animal control officers.</p>

<p>"I have dogs, and to see an outcome like this is absolutely heartbreaking, and we do understand people will be upset... but we were left with no other choice," said&nbsp; Sgt Warrick.&nbsp;A second small dog was found injured at the scene and is being cared for by the RSPCA.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Two neighbours told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC News)&nbsp;that the dog involved in the incident was known for being aggressive and also mentioned that it had attacked him before.</p>

<p>Sgt Warrick said that police may have been contacted for the dog before, but currently, they are looking into the specifics.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 34-year-old woman in Australia is fighting for her life after a brutal attack by her dog in North Queensland. The dog bit her arm off during the attack inside a house in the coastal city of Townsville.

A 34-year-old woman in Australia is fighting for her life after a brutal attack by her dog in North Queensland. The dog bit her arm off during the attack inside a house in the coastal city of Townsville. The emergency services were reportedly called around 7:00 am (local time) on Friday (Oct 11). The woman had sustained 'life-threatening' injuries as her right arm below the elbow had been severely injured. However, the detached part was retrieved by the paramedics before she was rushed to a local hospital. The woman is said to be in a serious but stable condition. The police had arrived to find the woman bleeding heavily outside the house, and the dog was believed to be a pit bull, said Senior Sgt Scott Warrick during a press conference. He said, "It was very angry, very aggressive... [it] was still trying to get outside." After arriving at the scene, some officers barricaded the house while others applied a temporary bandage to the woman’s arm to stop bleeding until paramedics arrived. Also Read | Hurricane Milton: Florida ‘clearing debris’ as monster storm passes over, 16 dead Sgt Warrick said, "I've been a police officer for 37 years... this is the first time I've gone to such a serious injury as a result of a dog attack. He added, "The injuries to this lady are just absolutely awful and we wish her a speedy recovery.” He also stated that the dog was euthanised on the advice of animal control officers. "I have dogs, and to see an outcome like this is absolutely heartbreaking, and we do understand people will be upset... but we were left with no other choice," said Sgt Warrick. A second small dog was found injured at the scene and is being cared for by the RSPCA. Two neighbours told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC News) that the dog involved in the incident was known for being aggressive and also mentioned that it had attacked him before. Sgt Warrick said that police may have been contacted for the dog before, but currently, they are looking into the specifics. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia: Woman loses her arm, sustains 'life-threatening' injuries after brutal dog attack

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