Australia has just sweltered through its warmest August on record. Meteorologists are saying that the temperatures have smashed the long-term average by more than three degrees celsius.

Unprecedented heat sweeps Australia

#Gravitas | As per reports, a mining boss in Australia allegedly said he does not want staff to step out for coffee breaks. On the contrary, 15,000 kilometres away, the UK Government is planning on introducing a four-day workweek for full-time employees.

Australia: Coffee break too much for mining boss

Australian mining services company Mineral Resources founder Chris Ellison has been in the spotlight after he shared that he does not want staff to step out of the office for coffee and&nbsp;wants to hold them captive all day long.&nbsp;

Earlier, Billionaire mining boss Ellison also banned work from home for his employees.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-right-to-disconnect-law-to-come-into-force-allows-ignoring-bosses-after-work-752732">Also read:&nbsp;'Right to disconnect': Australians will now be free to ignore bosses&nbsp;after&nbsp;work</a>

The managing director of Mineral Resources said that the industry could not afford to continue down the path of flexible working and that his company was investing in amenities at the firm's head office in Perth, Western Australia, to keep people from leaving.&nbsp;

<h2>'Want to hold them captive all day long'</h2>

During a presentation on Thursday (Aug 29), Ellison said,&nbsp;“I want to hold them captive all day long", adding, "I don’t want them leaving the building … I don’t want them walking down the road for a cup of coffee. We kind of figured out a few years ago how much that cost.”

He also slammed other businesses that permitted their staff to work from home. Ellison's&nbsp;company, worth A$8 billion ($5.42 billion)&nbsp;and has a staff of about 5600 people, formally banned working from home last year, despite the Covid&nbsp;pandemic.&nbsp;

“I have a no-work-from-home policy,” Ellison said. “I wish everyone else would get on board with that – the sooner the better. The industry can’t afford it.”

Watch |&nbsp;Australia introduces ‘right to disconnect’ laws

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Further, Ellison highlighted that they cannot have people working for three days and getting paid for four or five days. "We’ve now got the industry all heading out there going ‘why don’t we do a four-day week, we got used to it over Covid’,” Ellison said. “We can’t have people working three days, and picking up five days a week pay, or [even] four days.”

The managing director further said that they have got amenities in the office, to make people stay there.&nbsp;

“Head office is a place that a lot of our people want to be, and they love working in there. We’ve got a restaurant in there, we’ve also got a gym, and we’ve got other facilities that keep them glued in there," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Australian mining services company Mineral Resources founder Chris Ellison has been in the spotlight after he shared that he does not want staff to step out of the office for coffee and wants to hold them captive all day long.

Australian mining services company Mineral Resources founder Chris Ellison has been in the spotlight after he shared that he does not want staff to step out of the office for coffee and wants to hold them captive all day long. Earlier, Billionaire mining boss Ellison also banned work from home for his employees. Also read: 'Right to disconnect': Australians will now be free to ignore bosses after work The managing director of Mineral Resources said that the industry could not afford to continue down the path of flexible working and that his company was investing in amenities at the firm's head office in Perth, Western Australia, to keep people from leaving. 'Want to hold them captive all day long' During a presentation on Thursday (Aug 29), Ellison said, “I want to hold them captive all day long", adding, "I don’t want them leaving the building … I don’t want them walking down the road for a cup of coffee. We kind of figured out a few years ago how much that cost.” He also slammed other businesses that permitted their staff to work from home. Ellison's company, worth A$8 billion ($5.42 billion) and has a staff of about 5600 people, formally banned working from home last year, despite the Covid pandemic. “I have a no-work-from-home policy,” Ellison said. “I wish everyone else would get on board with that – the sooner the better. The industry can’t afford it.” Watch | Australia introduces ‘right to disconnect’ laws × Further, Ellison highlighted that they cannot have people working for three days and getting paid for four or five days. "We’ve now got the industry all heading out there going ‘why don’t we do a four-day week, we got used to it over Covid’,” Ellison said. “We can’t have people working three days, and picking up five days a week pay, or [even] four days.” The managing director further said that they have got amenities in the office, to make people stay there. “Head office is a place that a lot of our people want to be, and they love working in there. We’ve got a restaurant in there, we’ve also got a gym, and we’ve got other facilities that keep them glued in there," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Hold them captive all day long': Australian mining boss against his staff going out for coffee

The chief executive of National Australia Bank Ltd. stated that increasing divisions within the country's economy are complicating the task of setting appropriate monetary policies.

"There are two Australias," Andrew Irvine, the head of Australia's largest business bank, said during the House of Representatives Economics Committee's annual review into lenders on Friday. He pointed out that while profits are soaring for resource companies and related sectors, the housing shortage has become the country's "single biggest social issue."

His remarks highlight the difficulties policymakers face as the central bank strives to balance high asset prices with tight interest rates, while the Australian government works to mitigate the effects of rising energy and food prices on consumers.

"The averages tell a story of a country growing at 1.5 per cent, which is the lowest Australia has grown in 30 years. The problem is the averages don't tell the full story and we live in a very diverse country," said Irvine, who succeeded Ross McEwan as CEO of the nation's second-largest bank in April.

"In southeast Australia, Victoria in particular, people are doing it tougher," Irvine said. "These economies are more correlated to domestic demand, more correlated to interest rate settings than the resource correlated economies. That's where we're seeing the hardship emerging," Irvine said.

Irvine's observations recall Australia's experience during the peak of the mining investment boom 15 years ago, when the economy was divided between booming resources and stagnating industries in regions like western Sydney. The Reserve Bank frequently emphasises that interest rates are a blunt tool that must be set based on overall demand, meaning their impact will disproportionately affect certain parts of the economy.

Many of the bank's customers are having to make difficult choices about where to allocate their spending, Irvine said. NAB is the third of Australia's four largest banks to appear before the parliamentary review.

ANZ Group Holdings Ltd. CEO Shayne Elliott is expected to face extensive questioning from Australian lawmakers later, marking his first time doing so since a series of scandals involving the bank's bond trading business and broader corporate culture.

On Thursday, Commonwealth Bank of Australia CEO Matt Comyn remarked that regulators have an "undue level of concern" regarding the major banks' decision to scrap bonus caps, while Westpac Banking Corp.'s Peter King criticised social media tech giants for being "absent" in addressing scams.

The chief executive of National Australia Bank Ltd. stated that increasing divisions within the country's economy are complicating the task of setting appropriate monetary policies.

The chief executive of National Australia Bank Ltd. stated that increasing divisions within the country's economy are complicating the task of setting appropriate monetary policies. "There are two Australias," Andrew Irvine, the head of Australia's largest business bank, said during the House of Representatives Economics Committee's annual review into lenders on Friday. He pointed out that while profits are soaring for resource companies and related sectors, the housing shortage has become the country's "single biggest social issue." His remarks highlight the difficulties policymakers face as the central bank strives to balance high asset prices with tight interest rates, while the Australian government works to mitigate the effects of rising energy and food prices on consumers. "The averages tell a story of a country growing at 1.5 per cent, which is the lowest Australia has grown in 30 years. The problem is the averages don't tell the full story and we live in a very diverse country," said Irvine, who succeeded Ross McEwan as CEO of the nation's second-largest bank in April. "In southeast Australia, Victoria in particular, people are doing it tougher," Irvine said. "These economies are more correlated to domestic demand, more correlated to interest rate settings than the resource correlated economies. That's where we're seeing the hardship emerging," Irvine said. Irvine's observations recall Australia's experience during the peak of the mining investment boom 15 years ago, when the economy was divided between booming resources and stagnating industries in regions like western Sydney. The Reserve Bank frequently emphasises that interest rates are a blunt tool that must be set based on overall demand, meaning their impact will disproportionately affect certain parts of the economy. Many of the bank's customers are having to make difficult choices about where to allocate their spending, Irvine said. NAB is the third of Australia's four largest banks to appear before the parliamentary review. ANZ Group Holdings Ltd. CEO Shayne Elliott is expected to face extensive questioning from Australian lawmakers later, marking his first time doing so since a series of scandals involving the bank's bond trading business and broader corporate culture. On Thursday, Commonwealth Bank of Australia CEO Matt Comyn remarked that regulators have an "undue level of concern" regarding the major banks' decision to scrap bonus caps, while Westpac Banking Corp.'s Peter King criticised social media tech giants for being "absent" in addressing scams.

NAB Chief: Economic divisions in Australia complicate RBA's task

Australia's banking regulator intends to stress test the nation's financial sector to gain a better understanding of the impact of private credit capital flows on other segments of the market.

"Private credit is a new and emerging risk that we are looking at," said John Lonsdale, chair of the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), at a media conference in Sydney on Wednesday. "We want to work on more transparency in this area and we've signalled that already there is quite a lot of opaqueness."

Private credit is one of the fastest-growing sectors in financial markets at the moment, with this investment class being viewed as an alternative to the bond and loan markets, where banks typically serve as intermediaries. APRA plans to conduct a cross-industry stress test to examine "the linkages between the different sectors and how private credit might flow," Lonsdale explained.

The agency is joining forces with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission to increase scrutiny on private markets as more regulatory guardrails are being implemented elsewhere to handle potential risks. Private credit constituted over 10 per cent of Australia's A$1.4 trillion ($950 billion) corporate debt market in 2023, according to restructuring firm Alvarez &amp; Marsal Inc., a proportion Lonsdale describes as "significant."

APRA is also examining "strategic asset allocation" and the exposure that Australia's A$4 trillion pension pool has to private credit. Opportunities in Australian private credit were previously mostly limited to super and pension funds due to high entry barriers, but they are now becoming more accessible to individual investors, according to wealth management firm JBWere earlier this month.

Potential risks are "being discussed in international forums," Lonsdale noted. "We attend the Basel Committee, and it's an issue being looked at there. The same can be said at the Financial Stability Board."

Australia's banking regulator intends to stress test the nation's financial sector to gain a better understanding of the impact of private credit capital flows on other segments of the market.

Australia's banking regulator intends to stress test the nation's financial sector to gain a better understanding of the impact of private credit capital flows on other segments of the market. "Private credit is a new and emerging risk that we are looking at," said John Lonsdale, chair of the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), at a media conference in Sydney on Wednesday. "We want to work on more transparency in this area and we've signalled that already there is quite a lot of opaqueness." Private credit is one of the fastest-growing sectors in financial markets at the moment, with this investment class being viewed as an alternative to the bond and loan markets, where banks typically serve as intermediaries. APRA plans to conduct a cross-industry stress test to examine "the linkages between the different sectors and how private credit might flow," Lonsdale explained. The agency is joining forces with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission to increase scrutiny on private markets as more regulatory guardrails are being implemented elsewhere to handle potential risks. Private credit constituted over 10 per cent of Australia's A$1.4 trillion ($950 billion) corporate debt market in 2023, according to restructuring firm Alvarez & Marsal Inc., a proportion Lonsdale describes as "significant." APRA is also examining "strategic asset allocation" and the exposure that Australia's A$4 trillion pension pool has to private credit. Opportunities in Australian private credit were previously mostly limited to super and pension funds due to high entry barriers, but they are now becoming more accessible to individual investors, according to wealth management firm JBWere earlier this month. Potential risks are "being discussed in international forums," Lonsdale noted. "We attend the Basel Committee, and it's an issue being looked at there. The same can be said at the Financial Stability Board."

Australia's banking regulator to conduct stress tests on private credit risks

A 29-year-old Australian man, posing as a famous YouTuber, has been convicted of blackmailing hundreds of girls online in “one of the most severe sextortion cases in the history of Australia.”

Muhammad Zain Ul Abideen Rasheed was sentenced to 17 years in jail by the Perth District Court on Tuesday after he pleaded&nbsp;guilty to 119 charges in December 2023.

Rasheed manipulated over 250 victims around the globe into performing explicit acts on camera. Two-thirds of his victims were aged under 16.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwigpqC_z5eIAxVbTGcHHQwoFqM4ChDF9AEoAHoECAkQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nudes-stolen-online-and-distributed-girl-hacks-back-gets-intruder-jailed-501829" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/nudes-stolen-online-and-distributed-girl-hacks-back-gets-intruder-jailed-501829&amp;ved=2ahUKEwigpqC_z5eIAxVbTGcHHQwoFqM4ChDF9AEoAHoECAkQAQ">Nudes stolen online and distributed, girl hacks back, gets intruder jailed</a>

"The callous disregard this man had for his victims around the world and their distress, humiliation and fear make it one of the most horrific sextortion cases prosecuted in Australia," said Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner David McLean.&nbsp;

When announcing the sentence on Tuesday, Judge Amanda Burrows said Rasheed's offence was of such magnitude there was "no comparable case" in the country, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC).

<h2>International investigation leads to Rasheed's conviction</h2>

Rasheed pretended to be a 15-year-old American internet star and would try to strike up conversations with his victims through social media. He used to contact young females with visible friend lists on social media, befriend them into trust, and then manipulate them into providing explicit content.

Once the victims share their sexual fantasies with Rasheed, he would start blackmailing them into leaking their chats to friends and family, in return for increasingly sexual and degrading videos.

The Western Australia Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team (WA JACET) first launched an investigation into Rasheed's activities in September 2019.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwigpqC_z5eIAxVbTGcHHQwoFqM4ChDF9AEoAHoECAsQAQ" href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-%E2%80%98the-suicide-squad%E2%80%99-actor-joel-kinnaman-alleges-sextortion-by-a-former-partner-gets-restraining-order-403641" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-%25E2%2580%2598the-suicide-squad%25E2%2580%2599-actor-joel-kinnaman-alleges-sextortion-by-a-former-partner-gets-restraining-order-403641&amp;ved=2ahUKEwigpqC_z5eIAxVbTGcHHQwoFqM4ChDF9AEoAHoECAsQAQ">‘The Suicide Squad’ actor Joel Kinnaman alleges sextortion by a former partner, gets restraining order</a>

With a series of international investigations by AFP, Commonwealth and WA JACET, it was established that Rasheed had also been involved in misogynistic “incel” communities online. He would connect with other child sex offenders online, exchanging strategies and sharing details of children who were vulnerable to blackmail and abuse.

Sometimes, Rasheed forced his victims to perform sexual acts live with their pets or other children at home, with one instance being viewed by nearly 100 other people online.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiJ9_mzz5eIAxXzXGwGHWRIE6oQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/explained-sextortion-the-new-nigerian-prince-scam-on-snapchat-heres-how-you-can-protect-your-loved-ones-606925" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/trending/explained-sextortion-the-new-nigerian-prince-scam-on-snapchat-heres-how-you-can-protect-your-loved-ones-606925&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiJ9_mzz5eIAxXzXGwGHWRIE6oQxfQBKAB6BAgIEAE">Explained: `Sextortion`, the new `Nigerian prince` scam on Snapchat and Instagram</a>

Many of the children being extorted told him they were suicidal - one even sent images of self-harm. But Rasheed continued his blackmail despite their "obvious distress" and "extreme fear", the judge said, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). One of the victims, a Canadian girl, reported to the police that she was 13 years old.

Rasheed is already serving a five-year sentence for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old in his car in a Perth park.

He will be eligible to petition for parole in August 2033.

(With inputs from agencies)

A 29-year-old Australian man, posing as a famous YouTuber, has been convicted of blackmailing hundreds of girls online in “one of the most severe sextortion cases in the history of Australia.

A 29-year-old Australian man, posing as a famous YouTuber, has been convicted of blackmailing hundreds of girls online in “one of the most severe sextortion cases in the history of Australia.” Muhammad Zain Ul Abideen Rasheed was sentenced to 17 years in jail by the Perth District Court on Tuesday after he pleaded guilty to 119 charges in December 2023. Rasheed manipulated over 250 victims around the globe into performing explicit acts on camera. Two-thirds of his victims were aged under 16. Also Read | Nudes stolen online and distributed, girl hacks back, gets intruder jailed "The callous disregard this man had for his victims around the world and their distress, humiliation and fear make it one of the most horrific sextortion cases prosecuted in Australia," said Australian Federal Police Assistant Commissioner David McLean. When announcing the sentence on Tuesday, Judge Amanda Burrows said Rasheed's offence was of such magnitude there was "no comparable case" in the country, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). International investigation leads to Rasheed's conviction Rasheed pretended to be a 15-year-old American internet star and would try to strike up conversations with his victims through social media. He used to contact young females with visible friend lists on social media, befriend them into trust, and then manipulate them into providing explicit content. Once the victims share their sexual fantasies with Rasheed, he would start blackmailing them into leaking their chats to friends and family, in return for increasingly sexual and degrading videos. The Western Australia Joint Anti-Child Exploitation Team (WA JACET) first launched an investigation into Rasheed's activities in September 2019. Also Read | ‘The Suicide Squad’ actor Joel Kinnaman alleges sextortion by a former partner, gets restraining order With a series of international investigations by AFP, Commonwealth and WA JACET, it was established that Rasheed had also been involved in misogynistic “incel” communities online. He would connect with other child sex offenders online, exchanging strategies and sharing details of children who were vulnerable to blackmail and abuse. Sometimes, Rasheed forced his victims to perform sexual acts live with their pets or other children at home, with one instance being viewed by nearly 100 other people online. Also Read | Explained: `Sextortion`, the new `Nigerian prince` scam on Snapchat and Instagram Many of the children being extorted told him they were suicidal - one even sent images of self-harm. But Rasheed continued his blackmail despite their "obvious distress" and "extreme fear", the judge said, according to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). One of the victims, a Canadian girl, reported to the police that she was 13 years old. Rasheed is already serving a five-year sentence for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old in his car in a Perth park. He will be eligible to petition for parole in August 2033. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian man posing as YouTube star jailed for ‘world’s most severe sextortion’

Australian inflation eased to a four-month low in July as government rebates on electricity bills took effect. However, the moderation in price gains elsewhere fell short of expectations, leading markets to scale back the likelihood of an imminent interest rate cut.

The consumer price index (CPI) increased at an annual rate of 3.5 per cent in July, down from 3.8 per cent in June, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics data released on Wednesday.

The figure slightly exceeded forecasts of 3.4 per cent, prompting markets to slightly increase the odds of the first rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia in November to 48.4 per cent, from 58 per cent previously.

The Australian dollar inched up 0.1 per cent to $0.6803, its highest level this year, and the three-year bond yield rose 4 ticks to 3.559 per cent.

On a monthly basis, the CPI was unchanged in July compared to June as electricity prices dropped 6.4 per cent, and petrol declined 2.6 per cent, while rents, food, and gas prices climbed.

"July's inflation print is full of smoke and mirrors. At face value, the fight against inflation looks to have taken a massive step forward...but some of that improvement came from rebates that artificially lowered the cost of electricity," said Harry Murphy Cruise, an economist at Moody's Analytics.

"While that makes the headline inflation figure look a whole lot better, prices are ultimately unchanged."

Indeed, the deceleration in headline inflation was driven by electricity subsidies from the federal and state governments, which started in Queensland and Western Australia last month, with other states and Territories set to follow in August, the statistics agency noted.

It estimated that electricity prices in July would have risen 0.9 per cent, excluding the rebates.

Australian inflation eased to a four-month low in July as government rebates on electricity bills took effect. However, the moderation in price gains elsewhere fell short of expectations, leading markets to scale back the likelihood of an imminent interest rate cut.

Australian inflation eased to a four-month low in July as government rebates on electricity bills took effect. However, the moderation in price gains elsewhere fell short of expectations, leading markets to scale back the likelihood of an imminent interest rate cut. The consumer price index (CPI) increased at an annual rate of 3.5 per cent in July, down from 3.8 per cent in June, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics data released on Wednesday. The figure slightly exceeded forecasts of 3.4 per cent, prompting markets to slightly increase the odds of the first rate cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia in November to 48.4 per cent, from 58 per cent previously. The Australian dollar inched up 0.1 per cent to $0.6803, its highest level this year, and the three-year bond yield rose 4 ticks to 3.559 per cent. On a monthly basis, the CPI was unchanged in July compared to June as electricity prices dropped 6.4 per cent, and petrol declined 2.6 per cent, while rents, food, and gas prices climbed. "July's inflation print is full of smoke and mirrors. At face value, the fight against inflation looks to have taken a massive step forward...but some of that improvement came from rebates that artificially lowered the cost of electricity," said Harry Murphy Cruise, an economist at Moody's Analytics. "While that makes the headline inflation figure look a whole lot better, prices are ultimately unchanged." Indeed, the deceleration in headline inflation was driven by electricity subsidies from the federal and state governments, which started in Queensland and Western Australia last month, with other states and Territories set to follow in August, the statistics agency noted. It estimated that electricity prices in July would have risen 0.9 per cent, excluding the rebates.

Australia's inflation cools in July, though progress remains sluggish

Over a dozen people were stranded in the air minutes after a theme park ride malfunctioned in Gold Coast, Australia. The ride stopped mid-air due to a "sensor communication fault", said an official from Sea World.

According to the theme park, the Vortex ride experienced a "standard ride stoppage" on Tuesday afternoon.&nbsp;

“All 13 guests onboard are safe and our team are communicating with them as we prepare to exit them from the ride,” Sea World said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-dramatic-circus-stunt-goes-wrong-as-aerial-hoop-artist-falls-on-ground-753753">Watch: Dramatic circus stunt goes wrong as aerial hoop artist loses grip, falls down</a>

The passengers were rescued from the 15-metre high ride after Sea World's engineering team manually lowered the ride and the people exited safely after 90 minutes.

The Queensland ambulance arrived at the rescue site in case any assistance was needed.&nbsp;

“Our on-site nurse provided welfare checks in an abundance of caution with them upon exiting the ride,” the theme park said.

Queensland fire department also reached the scene "should the manual process not work", however, they were not needed, said Sea World.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/tourists-go-for-real-life-temple-run-in-cambodias-angkor-wat-experts-express-concern-753761">Tourists go for real-life 'Temple Run' in Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, experts express concern</a>

"The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest priority and ride stoppages are proof rides systems and operators are doing as they are designed and trained to do to keep our guests safe," The company added. "Our team regularly train for these exercises and we have a strong working relationship with the QFES team."

This incident was the second in less than a week when a side stopped working, leaving passengers trapped. Last Thursday, the Leviathan roller-coaster stopped working, due to a sensor issue as well, leaving passengers stuck for about an hour.

“At all times throughout the stoppage, the guests were safe and our team were in constant communication with them,” the company said about the incident earlier. “The guests onboard exited the ride from the safe stop zones with the help of our team.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Over a dozen people were stranded in the air minutes after a theme park ride malfunctioned in Gold Coast, Australia. The ride stopped mid-air due to a "sensor communication fault", said an official from Sea World.

Over a dozen people were stranded in the air minutes after a theme park ride malfunctioned in Gold Coast, Australia. The ride stopped mid-air due to a "sensor communication fault", said an official from Sea World. According to the theme park, the Vortex ride experienced a "standard ride stoppage" on Tuesday afternoon. “All 13 guests onboard are safe and our team are communicating with them as we prepare to exit them from the ride,” Sea World said in a statement. Also read | Watch: Dramatic circus stunt goes wrong as aerial hoop artist loses grip, falls down The passengers were rescued from the 15-metre high ride after Sea World's engineering team manually lowered the ride and the people exited safely after 90 minutes. The Queensland ambulance arrived at the rescue site in case any assistance was needed. “Our on-site nurse provided welfare checks in an abundance of caution with them upon exiting the ride,” the theme park said. Queensland fire department also reached the scene "should the manual process not work", however, they were not needed, said Sea World. Also read | Tourists go for real-life 'Temple Run' in Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, experts express concern "The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest priority and ride stoppages are proof rides systems and operators are doing as they are designed and trained to do to keep our guests safe," The company added. "Our team regularly train for these exercises and we have a strong working relationship with the QFES team." This incident was the second in less than a week when a side stopped working, leaving passengers trapped. Last Thursday, the Leviathan roller-coaster stopped working, due to a sensor issue as well, leaving passengers stuck for about an hour. “At all times throughout the stoppage, the guests were safe and our team were in constant communication with them,” the company said about the incident earlier. “The guests onboard exited the ride from the safe stop zones with the help of our team.” (With inputs from agencies)

Thirteen people trapped for 90 minutes after a theme park ride stopped mid-air in Australia

As part of a migration crackdown Australia will limit the number of foreign students to 270,000 in year 2025. The Australian government will cap new international students at 145,000 for universities and 95,000 for the skills training sector, Education Minister Jason Clare said on Tuesday (Aug 27).

Notably almost 600,000 student visas were granted in 2023, which was a significant jump from previous years.

"This is an significant part of our economy and there is no doubt about it. That hasn't changed," Clare told reporters in Sydney and added, "but as students have come back, it has put pressure on the reputation of the sector."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/canada-tightens-rules-for-temporary-foreign-worker-permits-753568">Canada tightens rules for temporary foreign worker permits</a>

Further informing, Clare said, “Generally, there will be around 15% more students allowed for universities and 20% fewer for vocational colleges in 2025.

Clare emphasised that the changes are not intended to undermine international education but rather to ensure its long-term sustainability. She expressed a desire to continue attracting international students to the country.

Universities Australia Chair David Lloyd said the student caps would put a ‘brake’ on the tertiary education sector.

Lloyd argued that migration controls should not disproportionately impact any sector, especially education, as it could harm Australia's research and development capabilities.

The Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia said in a statement that universities needed more information about the changes, saying the announcement "creates more questions than answers."

It may be mentioned here, Australia is just the latest country to crack down on international students over migration concerns, with Canada, the Netherlands and the UK all implementing or considering measures targeting the university sector.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-american-nuclear-site-has-as-much-plutomium-levels-as-cherobyl-disaster-area-in-ukraine-753572">This American nuclear site has as much plutomium levels as Cherobyl disaster area in Ukraine</a>

Support for migration in Australia has fallen to its lowest level in five years, according to a poll released by Essential, with 42% of those surveyed saying it had a negative effect on the country.

International students contributed $48 billion ($32.5 billion) to the Australian economy in 2023, making it the country's top services export.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

As part of a migration crackdown Australia will limit the number of foreign students to 270,000 in year 2025. The Australian government will cap new international students at 145,000 for universities and 95,000 for the skills training sector, Education Minister Jason Clare said on Tuesday (Aug 27).

As part of a migration crackdown Australia will limit the number of foreign students to 270,000 in year 2025. The Australian government will cap new international students at 145,000 for universities and 95,000 for the skills training sector, Education Minister Jason Clare said on Tuesday (Aug 27). Notably almost 600,000 student visas were granted in 2023, which was a significant jump from previous years. "This is an significant part of our economy and there is no doubt about it. That hasn't changed," Clare told reporters in Sydney and added, "but as students have come back, it has put pressure on the reputation of the sector." Also read: Canada tightens rules for temporary foreign worker permits Further informing, Clare said, “Generally, there will be around 15% more students allowed for universities and 20% fewer for vocational colleges in 2025. Clare emphasised that the changes are not intended to undermine international education but rather to ensure its long-term sustainability. She expressed a desire to continue attracting international students to the country. Universities Australia Chair David Lloyd said the student caps would put a ‘brake’ on the tertiary education sector. Lloyd argued that migration controls should not disproportionately impact any sector, especially education, as it could harm Australia's research and development capabilities. The Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia said in a statement that universities needed more information about the changes, saying the announcement "creates more questions than answers." It may be mentioned here, Australia is just the latest country to crack down on international students over migration concerns, with Canada, the Netherlands and the UK all implementing or considering measures targeting the university sector. Also read: This American nuclear site has as much plutomium levels as Cherobyl disaster area in Ukraine Support for migration in Australia has fallen to its lowest level in five years, according to a poll released by Essential, with 42% of those surveyed saying it had a negative effect on the country. International students contributed $48 billion ($32.5 billion) to the Australian economy in 2023, making it the country's top services export. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia limits international student admissions amid migration pressure

Australians are days away from being able to ignore their bosses outside working hours as the country has passed a new law to handle the work-related stress of employees.

Australians cheer 'right to disconnect': A new era in work-life balance

Australia&nbsp;registered a record-high winter temperature Monday, with the mercury hitting 41.6 degrees Celsius (106.7 degrees Fahrenheit) in part of its rugged and remote northwest coast.&nbsp;

The Bureau of Meteorology said it logged the scorching reading from a military training facility at Yampi Sound at 3:37 pm local time -- apparently smashing the previous record by 0.4 C.

The reading was "the hottest August temperature for any location in&nbsp;Australia" and "the new&nbsp;Australia-wide maximum temperature record for any winter month", a Bureau of Meteorology spokesperson told AFP.

Official data shows average temperatures for&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;steadily rising, with climate change fuelling more intense bushfires, floods, droughts, and heatwaves.

While the record is "provisionally confirmed", scientists still have to make sure the recording was not the result of some local anomaly or instrument failure before it officially enters the record books.

The previous record of 41.2°C (106.2°F) was set in August 2020 at nearby West Roebuck.

The antipodean winter runs from the beginning of June until the end of August.&nbsp;

About 18 per cent of&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;is desert, and searing heat is common year-round away from temperate zones.&nbsp;

<h2>- Complex puzzle -</h2>

Australia's climate is heavily influenced by three cyclical climate patterns: changes in Indian Ocean temperatures; changes in a belt of wind that moves between&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;and Antarctica -- the so-called Southern Annular Mode -- and changes in Pacific weather patterns known as El Nino and La Nina.

Certain combinations of these three climate conditions can cause exceptionally hot, dry or wet conditions in different parts of&nbsp;Australia.&nbsp;

All three of&nbsp;Australia's major climate-influencing phenomena are believed to be affected by human-induced climate change, according to research by&nbsp;Australia's state-backed Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation.&nbsp;

The Bureau of Meteorology believes that "the combination of (these) major climate influences with global warming" contributed to making 2023&nbsp;Australia's hottest winter on record.

Climate scientists have already predicted that 2024 will be the hottest year for the Earth on record.

From January to July, global temperatures were 0.7°C above the 1991-2020 average, according to the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service.

Temperature records have tumbled worldwide in recent decades as human-caused carbon emissions have risen.

Record temperatures have been recorded in the Mediterranean Sea, Norway's Arctic Svalbard archipelago, and the Ukrainian capital Kyiv in the past few weeks alone.

&nbsp;

Australia registered a record-high winter temperature Monday, with the mercury hitting 41.6 degrees Celsius (106.7 degrees Fahrenheit) in part of its rugged and remote northwest coast.

Australia registered a record-high winter temperature Monday, with the mercury hitting 41.6 degrees Celsius (106.7 degrees Fahrenheit) in part of its rugged and remote northwest coast. The Bureau of Meteorology said it logged the scorching reading from a military training facility at Yampi Sound at 3:37 pm local time -- apparently smashing the previous record by 0.4 C. The reading was "the hottest August temperature for any location in Australia" and "the new Australia-wide maximum temperature record for any winter month", a Bureau of Meteorology spokesperson told AFP. Official data shows average temperatures for Australia steadily rising, with climate change fuelling more intense bushfires, floods, droughts, and heatwaves. While the record is "provisionally confirmed", scientists still have to make sure the recording was not the result of some local anomaly or instrument failure before it officially enters the record books. The previous record of 41.2°C (106.2°F) was set in August 2020 at nearby West Roebuck. The antipodean winter runs from the beginning of June until the end of August. About 18 per cent of Australia is desert, and searing heat is common year-round away from temperate zones. - Complex puzzle - Australia's climate is heavily influenced by three cyclical climate patterns: changes in Indian Ocean temperatures; changes in a belt of wind that moves between Australia and Antarctica -- the so-called Southern Annular Mode -- and changes in Pacific weather patterns known as El Nino and La Nina. Certain combinations of these three climate conditions can cause exceptionally hot, dry or wet conditions in different parts of Australia. All three of Australia's major climate-influencing phenomena are believed to be affected by human-induced climate change, according to research by Australia's state-backed Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation. The Bureau of Meteorology believes that "the combination of (these) major climate influences with global warming" contributed to making 2023 Australia's hottest winter on record. Climate scientists have already predicted that 2024 will be the hottest year for the Earth on record. From January to July, global temperatures were 0.7°C above the 1991-2020 average, according to the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service. Temperature records have tumbled worldwide in recent decades as human-caused carbon emissions have risen. Record temperatures have been recorded in the Mediterranean Sea, Norway's Arctic Svalbard archipelago, and the Ukrainian capital Kyiv in the past few weeks alone.

Australia registers record high winter temperature

Australians secure protection against after-hours work demands

Strikes and heavy rainfall across major growing areas are now delaying Australia's sugar crush, threatening exports and the ability of farmers to plant next year's crops.

Industrial action by workers in many mills stretching over months, along with a recent bout of wet weather in Queensland, is posing an increasing risk to this season's crop, industry body Canegrowers said. Some 8.5 million tons of the harvest in the state — which produces almost all of the country's cane — has been crushed so far, about 1.5 million tons less than this time last year, it said.

Australia is the third-largest raw sugar exporter, with more than 80 per cent of its crop shipped overseas. Reduced supplies from the country may help ease a recent slide in sugar futures, which recently fell to the lowest in almost two years. Australian shipments, however, are but a fraction compared with Brazil—the largest exporter—and thus unlikely to shift global prices significantly.

Workers at Wilmar International Ltd.'s Australian mills—about half of Queensland's production—have gone on intermittent strikes for higher pay since May. That is, many growers are now unable to get into mills, weeks behind schedule, according to Canegrowers.

According to Chris Bosworth, a Canegrowers director and local sugarcane farmer, tractors and heavy equipment couldn't get into the soggy fields to transport the cane due to heavy rainfall across Queensland.

The longer the wet weather prevails, he added, many farmers just won't plant crops for next year. The later farmers plant, the more likely it is that the seedlings will be destroyed by rain as the region heads toward the wet season that usually starts in late November or early December, said Bosworth. Sugarcane crops can't be planted in wet soil.

"If you plant and the wet season rolls around a few weeks later, your crop is pretty much doomed," he said. "Many of us aren't willing to take that risk, but that also means we will have no income next year."

Strikes and heavy rainfall across major growing areas are now delaying Australia's sugar crush, threatening exports and the ability of farmers to plant next year's crops.

Strikes and heavy rainfall across major growing areas are now delaying Australia's sugar crush, threatening exports and the ability of farmers to plant next year's crops. Industrial action by workers in many mills stretching over months, along with a recent bout of wet weather in Queensland, is posing an increasing risk to this season's crop, industry body Canegrowers said. Some 8.5 million tons of the harvest in the state — which produces almost all of the country's cane — has been crushed so far, about 1.5 million tons less than this time last year, it said. Australia is the third-largest raw sugar exporter, with more than 80 per cent of its crop shipped overseas. Reduced supplies from the country may help ease a recent slide in sugar futures, which recently fell to the lowest in almost two years. Australian shipments, however, are but a fraction compared with Brazil—the largest exporter—and thus unlikely to shift global prices significantly. Workers at Wilmar International Ltd.'s Australian mills—about half of Queensland's production—have gone on intermittent strikes for higher pay since May. That is, many growers are now unable to get into mills, weeks behind schedule, according to Canegrowers. According to Chris Bosworth, a Canegrowers director and local sugarcane farmer, tractors and heavy equipment couldn't get into the soggy fields to transport the cane due to heavy rainfall across Queensland. The longer the wet weather prevails, he added, many farmers just won't plant crops for next year. The later farmers plant, the more likely it is that the seedlings will be destroyed by rain as the region heads toward the wet season that usually starts in late November or early December, said Bosworth. Sugarcane crops can't be planted in wet soil. "If you plant and the wet season rolls around a few weeks later, your crop is pretty much doomed," he said. "Many of us aren't willing to take that risk, but that also means we will have no income next year."

Australian sugar production faces delays due to strikes and heavy rainfall

Australians are days away from being able to ignore their bosses outside working hours as the country has passed a new law to handle the work-related stress of employees.

The Fair Work Amendment (Right to Disconnect) Act amends the Fair Work Act 2009 and was moved through the Australian&nbsp;parliament in February this year.&nbsp;The law aims to protect employees who refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact from their employers outside work hours.

It will be implemented from August 26.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/right-to-ignore-australia-to-allow-workers-to-shun-calls-texts-from-bosses-after-work-hours-688095">Also read |&nbsp;'Right to ignore': Australia to allow workers to shun calls, texts from bosses after work hours</a>

However, the "Right to Disconnect Act" allows circumstances where an employee's right to refuse can be deemed "unreasonable" depending on their role, the reason for the contact, and how it is made, along with other factors.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, in France, Germany and other European Union countries, similar laws have already been enacted which allow employees a right to switch off their mobile devices after working hours.&nbsp;

Besides the pros of the new law, it also drew criticism from employer groups who called the legislation rushed and flawed.&nbsp;

<h2>What is "Right to Disconnect" Act?&nbsp;</h2>

The act originates from the recognition that modern technology negates the boundaries between work and personal life. With a remote work culture, employees find themselves engaged in work-related communications beyond their office hours, affecting their personal lives.&nbsp;

Moreover, this practice, which extended during the pandemic, has led to concerns about stress and exertion among workers.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Australia introduces ‘right to disconnect’ laws

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However, the then Australian Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Tony Burke, defended the bill during an interview with the country’s public broadcaster, saying, "Some people are now constantly in a situation of getting in trouble if they're not checking their emails... Workers shouldn't be obligated to respond to messages during uncompensated hours."

While speaking to the BBC, Belgium Public Administration Minister Petra De Sutter, said that the current work culture was harming the population.&nbsp;"The result will be stress and burnout, and this is the real disease of today," Sutter added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Australians are days away from being able to ignore their bosses outside working hours as the country has passed a new law to handle the work-related stress of employees. The Fair Work Amendment (Right to Disconnect) Act amends the Fair Work Act 2009 and was moved through the Australian parliament in February this year. The law aims to protect employees who refuse to monitor, read or respond to contact from their employers outside work hours. It will be implemented from August 26. Also read | 'Right to ignore': Australia to allow workers to shun calls, texts from bosses after work hours However, the "Right to Disconnect Act" allows circumstances where an employee's right to refuse can be deemed "unreasonable" depending on their role, the reason for the contact, and how it is made, along with other factors. Meanwhile, in France, Germany and other European Union countries, similar laws have already been enacted which allow employees a right to switch off their mobile devices after working hours. Besides the pros of the new law, it also drew criticism from employer groups who called the legislation rushed and flawed. What is "Right to Disconnect" Act? The act originates from the recognition that modern technology negates the boundaries between work and personal life. With a remote work culture, employees find themselves engaged in work-related communications beyond their office hours, affecting their personal lives. Moreover, this practice, which extended during the pandemic, has led to concerns about stress and exertion among workers. Watch: Australia introduces ‘right to disconnect’ laws × However, the then Australian Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Tony Burke, defended the bill during an interview with the country’s public broadcaster, saying, "Some people are now constantly in a situation of getting in trouble if they're not checking their emails... Workers shouldn't be obligated to respond to messages during uncompensated hours." While speaking to the BBC, Belgium Public Administration Minister Petra De Sutter, said that the current work culture was harming the population. "The result will be stress and burnout, and this is the real disease of today," Sutter added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Right to disconnect': Australians will now be free to ignore bosses after work

Sydney gentoo penguin Sphen, whose same-sex love story made him and partner Magic an equality symbol worldwide, has died. The couple shot to fame in 2018 when news of their same-sex male relationship in a Sydney aquarium made global headlines.

Australian penguin with same-sex partner passes way

Australia has approved plans for a massive solar hub intended to power millions of homes domestically and supply electricity to Singapore. The project billed as the largest solar precinct in the world is expected to produce 6 gigawatts and begin supplying power by 2030...Watch in for more details!

Australia ok's world's 'largest' solar hub

Australian break dancer Rachael Gunn says the backlash she has received since competing at the Paris Olympics has been 'devastating'. The 36-year-old University lecturer has pleaded for privacy for her family and friends.

Olympic viral break dancer 'Raygun' slams trolls

A helicopter crashed into the roof of a hotel in Australia resulting in a fire. Hundreds had to be evacuated from the building. This was an unauthorized helicopter flight. How was the helicopter able to take off? Molly Gambhir gets you the complete story.

Watch: Helicopter crashes into its roof of hotel in Australia, hundreds evacuated | Gravitas

The helicopter that crashed into a hotel roof in the northern Queensland city of Cairns in Australia on Monday (Aug 12), killing the pilot, may have been stolen, according to a report in&nbsp;news.com.au.

The helicopter, belonging to&nbsp;Nautilus Aviation was reportedly stolen from the Cairns airport. The airline company's chief executive officer Aaron Finn said the chopper was taken from the airport early in the morning.

“Nautilus Aviation are working closely with the Queensland Police Service, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau and other authorities as they investigate the unauthorised use of one of our helicopters in the early hours of this morning,” the airline said.

“As we continue to fully support the ongoing investigation, we will not be making further comments at this time.”

Notably, the helicopter crashed into the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel at around 1:50 am local time, sparking a fire and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of guests staying at the facility.&nbsp;

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The fire after the helicopter crashed on the roof of Double Tree Hotel in Cairns. A friend was staying there. <a href="https://t.co/Q5mkJ0BYHc">pic.twitter.com/Q5mkJ0BYHc</a>
— Ben Pennings (@BenPennings) <a href="https://twitter.com/BenPennings/status/1822718753106518523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 11, 2024</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Australian Transport Safety Bureau Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell confirmed that authorities will be probing every angle, including the allegations that the helicopter was stolen.&nbsp;

“At this stage, we’ll treat the investigation like we do any other. We’ll certainly gather what we can from the scene, from the operator, and once we do have an identity of the personnel involved, then we’ll start looking a little bit more closely on all the things that may have contributed to what unfolded last night,” said&nbsp;Mitchell.&nbsp;

“We want to understand what the helicopter was equipped with but also potentially what the helicopter was doing at the time and any nature of the flight.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/brazil-plane-crash-blackbox-recovered-from-crash-site-749069">Watch |&nbsp;Brazil Plane Crash: Blackbox recovered from crash site</a>

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Queensland Fire Gold Coast zone commander Superintendent Greg Tomlinson also confirmed that the helicopter was taken off from a general hanger at the Cairns Airport but refused to further divulge any details.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/video-large-passenger-plane-crashes-in-brazils-sao-paulo-killing-all-62-people-on-board-748864">Also read |&nbsp;Large passenger plane crashes in Brazil’s Sao Paulo, killing all 61 people on board</a>

<h2>Who was the pilot?</h2>

The identity of the pilot remains unknown at this stage. Nautilus Aviation has confirmed that all of its staff was already accounted for the day and had been given a day off following the incident.&nbsp;

According to reports, a fire immediately broke out after the helicopter crashed. Paramedics only arrived at the scene after 2 am and assessed a male patient with life-threatening injuries.&nbsp;

Another male in his 80s and a woman in her 70s were treated and taken to Cairns Hospital in a stable condition.

(With inputs from agencies)

The helicopter that crashed into a hotel roof in the northern Queensland city of Cairns in Australia on Monday (Aug 12), killing the pilot, may have been stolen, according to a report in news.

The helicopter that crashed into a hotel roof in the northern Queensland city of Cairns in Australia on Monday (Aug 12), killing the pilot, may have been stolen, according to a report in news.com.au. The helicopter, belonging to Nautilus Aviation was reportedly stolen from the Cairns airport. The airline company's chief executive officer Aaron Finn said the chopper was taken from the airport early in the morning. “Nautilus Aviation are working closely with the Queensland Police Service, the Australian Transport Safety Bureau and other authorities as they investigate the unauthorised use of one of our helicopters in the early hours of this morning,” the airline said. “As we continue to fully support the ongoing investigation, we will not be making further comments at this time.” Notably, the helicopter crashed into the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel at around 1:50 am local time, sparking a fire and forcing the evacuation of hundreds of guests staying at the facility. The fire after the helicopter crashed on the roof of Double Tree Hotel in Cairns. A friend was staying there. pic.twitter.com/Q5mkJ0BYHc — Ben Pennings (@BenPennings) August 11, 2024 × Australian Transport Safety Bureau Chief Commissioner Angus Mitchell confirmed that authorities will be probing every angle, including the allegations that the helicopter was stolen. “At this stage, we’ll treat the investigation like we do any other. We’ll certainly gather what we can from the scene, from the operator, and once we do have an identity of the personnel involved, then we’ll start looking a little bit more closely on all the things that may have contributed to what unfolded last night,” said Mitchell. “We want to understand what the helicopter was equipped with but also potentially what the helicopter was doing at the time and any nature of the flight. Watch | Brazil Plane Crash: Blackbox recovered from crash site × Queensland Fire Gold Coast zone commander Superintendent Greg Tomlinson also confirmed that the helicopter was taken off from a general hanger at the Cairns Airport but refused to further divulge any details. Also read | Large passenger plane crashes in Brazil’s Sao Paulo, killing all 61 people on board Who was the pilot? The identity of the pilot remains unknown at this stage. Nautilus Aviation has confirmed that all of its staff was already accounted for the day and had been given a day off following the incident. According to reports, a fire immediately broke out after the helicopter crashed. Paramedics only arrived at the scene after 2 am and assessed a male patient with life-threatening injuries. Another male in his 80s and a woman in her 70s were treated and taken to Cairns Hospital in a stable condition. (With inputs from agencies)

Helicopter that crashed on hotel roof in Australia may have been stolen | Video

Australia's decision to cap the number of foreign students universities in Australia say there will be widespread layoffs if the government acts hastily to limit the number of overseas students.

Is Australia's limit on overseas student damaging?

To regain investors' confidence and to mend its bruised reputation, Australia's Qantas Airlines is slashing the fiscal 2023 pay of ex-CEO Alan Joyce by a record amount. According to the annual report, Mr Joyce, who retired in September 2023, took home A$21.4 million in the 2023 financial year. The airline said on Thursday that the compensation will be reduced by A$9.26 million ($6.03 million).

Further, Qantas is reducing short-term incentives for current and former senior executives by a third. This comes in the wake of a governance review that observed no case of intentional wrongdoing but found significant mistakes made by the board, resulting in huge reputational damage and customer service issues.

"The events that damaged Qantas and its reputation and caused considerable harm to relationships with customers, employees, and other stakeholders were due to a number of factors," the company said. The move has pitted Qantas in a series of legal and regulatory challenges as more discontented investors called for restructuring in management.

Qantas agreed to an A$120 million settlement with regulators back in May over the sale of tickets for flights that had previously been cancelled in an attempt to quash the reputational crisis. This was a step into mollifying the growing discontent among stakeholders and seeking to salvage the reputation of this airline.

The new measures by Qantas are quite strong in terms of correcting the mistakes made in the past and seeking to regain its status from investors and customers alike. Having held its management accountable for these wrongs and finding solutions to the central problems that saw it lose its glory, Qantas is on the way to redeeming its sterling reputation.

To regain investors' confidence and to mend its bruised reputation, Australia's Qantas Airlines is slashing the fiscal 2023 pay of ex-CEO Alan Joyce by a record amount.

To regain investors' confidence and to mend its bruised reputation, Australia's Qantas Airlines is slashing the fiscal 2023 pay of ex-CEO Alan Joyce by a record amount. According to the annual report, Mr Joyce, who retired in September 2023, took home A$21.4 million in the 2023 financial year. The airline said on Thursday that the compensation will be reduced by A$9.26 million ($6.03 million). Further, Qantas is reducing short-term incentives for current and former senior executives by a third. This comes in the wake of a governance review that observed no case of intentional wrongdoing but found significant mistakes made by the board, resulting in huge reputational damage and customer service issues. "The events that damaged Qantas and its reputation and caused considerable harm to relationships with customers, employees, and other stakeholders were due to a number of factors," the company said. The move has pitted Qantas in a series of legal and regulatory challenges as more discontented investors called for restructuring in management. Qantas agreed to an A$120 million settlement with regulators back in May over the sale of tickets for flights that had previously been cancelled in an attempt to quash the reputational crisis. This was a step into mollifying the growing discontent among stakeholders and seeking to salvage the reputation of this airline. The new measures by Qantas are quite strong in terms of correcting the mistakes made in the past and seeking to regain its status from investors and customers alike. Having held its management accountable for these wrongs and finding solutions to the central problems that saw it lose its glory, Qantas is on the way to redeeming its sterling reputation.

Qantas reforms: Fiscal reckoning under reputational crisis

A rising wave of political and religious persecution in China is compelling its citizens to seek refuge far from home, in Australia and New Zealand. According to recent data from the Australian Department of Home Affairs, over the last five years, at least 3500 Chinese students have applied for political asylum in Australia. In neighbouring New Zealand, this year, there has been a threefold increase in asylum applications from Chinese citizens. These spikes mirror the growing desperation among Muslim Chinese students to escape repression, restrictions, and persecution.

China: Muslims Flee Repression, Seek Asylum in Australia, New Zealand

Australia on Monday (Aug 5) raised its terror threat level to "probable" from "possible", citing an increase in extremist views in the country leading to a more than 50 per cent chance of the planning of an onshore attack in the next 12 months.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he had raised the country's threat level following advice from security services, but said there was no imminent threat of an attack.

"The advice that we have received is that more Australians are embracing a more diverse range of extreme ideologies and it is our responsibility to be vigilant," he told a news conference.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sydney-church-stabbing-two-knife-attacks-in-australia-in-three-days-711959">Watch |&nbsp;Sydney Church Stabbing: Two knife attacks in Australia in three days</a>

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&nbsp;

Australia lowered the threat level to "possible" in 2022, following eight years at "probable".

Mike Burgess, director general of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, the country's main intelligence agency, said tensions in the Middle East, including a conflict between Israel and Hamas that began on Oct. 7, were a contributing factor to raising the threat level.

"The conflict has fuelled grievances, promoted protests, undermined social cohesion and elevated intolerance," he said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-knife-attack-was-it-terror-related-heres-what-police-say-about-suspect-710888">Also read |&nbsp;Australia knife attack: Was it terror-related? Here's what police say about suspect</a>

Australia has seen several violent attacks in recent months, some of which have been designated as motivated by extremism.

In April Australian police said a knife attack on an Assyrian church bishop and some of his followers in Sydney was a terrorist act motivated by suspected religious extremism.

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 on Monday (Aug 5) raised its terror threat level to "probable" from "possible", citing an increase in extremist views in the country leading to a more than 50 per cent chance of the planning of an onshore attack in the next 12 months.

Australia on Monday (Aug 5) raised its terror threat level to "probable" from "possible", citing an increase in extremist views in the country leading to a more than 50 per cent chance of the planning of an onshore attack in the next 12 months. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he had raised the country's threat level following advice from security services, but said there was no imminent threat of an attack. "The advice that we have received is that more Australians are embracing a more diverse range of extreme ideologies and it is our responsibility to be vigilant," he told a news conference. Watch | Sydney Church Stabbing: Two knife attacks in Australia in three days × Australia lowered the threat level to "possible" in 2022, following eight years at "probable". Mike Burgess, director general of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation, the country's main intelligence agency, said tensions in the Middle East, including a conflict between Israel and Hamas that began on Oct. 7, were a contributing factor to raising the threat level. "The conflict has fuelled grievances, promoted protests, undermined social cohesion and elevated intolerance," he said. Also read | Australia knife attack: Was it terror-related? Here's what police say about suspect Australia has seen several violent attacks in recent months, some of which have been designated as motivated by extremism. In April Australian police said a knife attack on an Assyrian church bishop and some of his followers in Sydney was a terrorist act motivated by suspected religious extremism. 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 raises terror threat level from 'possible' to 'probable' amid increase in extremist views

The breathtaking northern lights dazzled in the night skies of the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia as social media platforms were flooded with mesmerising images.

The breathtaking northern lights dazzled in the night skies of the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia as social media platforms were flooded with mesmerising images. A “strong geomagnetic storm watch" was earlier issued by the Space Weather Prediction Center of the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) for July 29-31. Meanwhile, Australia also witnessed a dazzling display of southern lights in the skies after the powerful geomagnetic storm and more spectacular auroras are expected tonight. Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology stated that geomagnetic activity can lead to the sparkling of auroras in the skies of Australia's southern states from July 29 to 31. Also Read: Earth witnessed never-ever-seen 'polar rain' aurora. Here's how this eerie glow was formed “Several coronal mass ejections may impact Earth within the next 24 hours, possibly causing G1 and G2 geomagnetic storming with a slight chance for G3,” stated the agency. “If geomagnetic activity does eventuate, aurora may be visible during local nighttime hours in Tasmania and southern Victoria on July 31," it added. The NOAA said that solar activity peaked on Tuesday (Jul 30) as the Sun released solar flares and coronal mass ejections which hit the Earth and caused the auroras. Because of this, the auroras were visible as far south as Oregon and Illinois in the United States and also created aurora australis in the southern hemisphere. Here's how netizens reacted to the auroras Australian Minister Julie Collins posted a picture of the glowing aurora on X. “Even the aurora australis last night turned out in green and gold for our Olympians!” wrote Collins. Auroras were also seen in the skies of Australia on August 1, said the bureau, but at a “reduced probability”. “Amazing! #Aurora has dropped as far south as Wyoming, USA during this ongoing #solarstorm! This is an auspicious start to the multiple storm train we are expecting over the next few days," said a Space Weather Physicist. Watch: Stuck in space for 52 days, no way home for astronauts; Helium leaks delaying return “Absolutely beautiful," one user wrote. “Wow!! Where in Colorado are you? We’re in Boulder hoping to see them," another user said. “Starting to show here in NorCal too! Mid-lats woohoooo," a user wrote. “Caught this over Lake Ontario in Baker NY with an iPhone 14 Pro, 30sec exposure and a tripod," another user said. Check out the mesmerising aurora borealis which sparkled in the skies Even the Aurora Australis last night turned out in Green and Gold for our Olympians! Can anyone guess where in Franklin this photo was taken? pic.twitter.com/RemU2DUS37 — Julie Collins (@JulieCollinsMP) July 30, 2024 × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Gill Dayton/Tasmania/Australia (@tassieapplespice) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Michael Eastwell (@michaeleastwell) × Last night in Northern Cali!! We got freakin Aurora! 🤩🤯 pic.twitter.com/eDo5REEC61 — KRL (@KennethLerose) July 31, 2024 × #Colorado Checking in!!#aurora #auroraborealis #COWX @TamithaSkov @SNHWx @AuroraNotify @TweetAurora pic.twitter.com/NVJe18Bk8w — Sarah Marie (@sarahmarie787) July 30, 2024 × Again 😍😍#Aurora #AuroraAsutralisTasmania pic.twitter.com/uTQ7HM3pRk — cocomo (@SultanM45488238) July 30, 2024 × Quebec getting a good #Aurora show tonight so far - images from the live cam! #northernlights #auroraborealis @TamithaSkov pic.twitter.com/Z6702O9wDc — Steve Luther Night Sky Chaser 📸🌌🌅🌄🌈🪐 (@skyvistaphoto) July 30, 2024 × July 30th - Another set of Aurora Shots from Last nights beautiful G1 KP5 show shortly after midnight in Labrador City, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Bit of the glow from the minesite behind the hills showing up. #nlwx #nlastro #northernlights #Auroraborealis #aurora… pic.twitter.com/x0HfCyv1Id — Keith Fitzpatrick 📷 (@KeithFitz81) July 30, 2024 × (With inputs from agencies)

Auroras dazzle skies of Australia, US and the UK after powerful solar storms slam Earth

In a significant development amid the Paris Olympics, journalists at some of Australia's leading newspapers have gone on strike after their demands for higher wages were rejected. Watch in for more details!

Australian journalists protest for pay hikes

Over half a decade after MV Noongah succumbed to its fate by sinking deep into the water off the coast of the Australian state of New South Wales, killing 21 men.&nbsp;Australia has finally found the shipwreck of the ill-fated vessel, putting an end to the decades-long mystery.&nbsp;

For 55 years, the researchers struggled to find the 71 metres (233 ft) MV Noongah that was carrying steel off the coast of New South Wales when it ran into rough seas in August of 1969. Reports stated that the ship sank minutes after sending a distress signal.&nbsp;

After the ship disappeared, it prompted one of the biggest maritime searches in Australian history. Five of the 26 crewmen survived but the body of only one was ever recovered from the sea while the remaining were lost.&nbsp;

Last month, a high-tech ship owned by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) in collaboration with Heritage NSW and The Sydney Project went to investigate a possible wreckage, hoping for it to be MV Noongah.

Notably, locals had spotted the shipwreck years ago in the water off the coast of South West Rocks, about 460 kilometres north of Sydney. However, the lack of technology or diving knowledge needed to identify the wreck stopped the endeavour - that is until the CSIRO ship arrived.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wreckage-of-titan-submarine-brought-to-st-johns-harbour-wion-speed-news-609952">Watch |&nbsp;Wreckage of Titan submarine brought to St. John's Harbour | WION Speed News</a>

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<h2>Noongah sitting upright&nbsp;</h2>

Upon examining the wreckage, the researchers found it to be largely intact and sitting upright on the seafloor, 170 metres below the surface.&nbsp;

“We were lucky to have favourable sea conditions for the survey and our CSIRO technical teams were able to gather excellent bathymetry and drop camera vision of the wreck,” said CSIRO Voyage Manager, Margot Hind.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wreckage-of-the-sister-ship-of-17th-century-vesa-warship-discovered-in-sweden-528182">Also read |&nbsp;Wreckage of the sister ship of 17th-century Vesa warship discovered in Sweden</a>&nbsp;

“Not only is the discovery of these significant wrecks important for the surviving sailors and families of those that perished during the tragedy but also it allows us to investigate the mystery behind the sinking,” Samir Alhafith from The Sydney Project added.&nbsp;

Family members and descendants of the MV Noongah crew have been urged to contact CSIRO for further details about investigations conducted by the mission.&nbsp;

The data and vision collected have been provided to project partners which will help them plan a dive to collect additional vision from the site.

(With inputs from agencies)

Over half a decade after MV Noongah succumbed to its fate by sinking deep into the water off the coast of the Australian state of New South Wales, killing 21 men.

Over half a decade after MV Noongah succumbed to its fate by sinking deep into the water off the coast of the Australian state of New South Wales, killing 21 men. Australia has finally found the shipwreck of the ill-fated vessel, putting an end to the decades-long mystery. For 55 years, the researchers struggled to find the 71 metres (233 ft) MV Noongah that was carrying steel off the coast of New South Wales when it ran into rough seas in August of 1969. Reports stated that the ship sank minutes after sending a distress signal. After the ship disappeared, it prompted one of the biggest maritime searches in Australian history. Five of the 26 crewmen survived but the body of only one was ever recovered from the sea while the remaining were lost. Last month, a high-tech ship owned by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) in collaboration with Heritage NSW and The Sydney Project went to investigate a possible wreckage, hoping for it to be MV Noongah. Notably, locals had spotted the shipwreck years ago in the water off the coast of South West Rocks, about 460 kilometres north of Sydney. However, the lack of technology or diving knowledge needed to identify the wreck stopped the endeavour - that is until the CSIRO ship arrived. Watch | Wreckage of Titan submarine brought to St. John's Harbour | WION Speed News × Noongah sitting upright Upon examining the wreckage, the researchers found it to be largely intact and sitting upright on the seafloor, 170 metres below the surface. “We were lucky to have favourable sea conditions for the survey and our CSIRO technical teams were able to gather excellent bathymetry and drop camera vision of the wreck,” said CSIRO Voyage Manager, Margot Hind. Also read | Wreckage of the sister ship of 17th-century Vesa warship discovered in Sweden “Not only is the discovery of these significant wrecks important for the surviving sailors and families of those that perished during the tragedy but also it allows us to investigate the mystery behind the sinking,” Samir Alhafith from The Sydney Project added. Family members and descendants of the MV Noongah crew have been urged to contact CSIRO for further details about investigations conducted by the mission. The data and vision collected have been provided to project partners which will help them plan a dive to collect additional vision from the site. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia's biggest maritime mystery solved as MV Noongah's shipwreck found after 55 years

Following a colossal digital blackout that engulfed the entire globe Friday, Australia's cyber intelligence agency issued a grim warning regarding the surge of "malicious websites and unofficial code" that could be doing the rounds on the web, promising recovery solutions. The massive outage was experienced by media, retailers, banks, and airlines across the world because of a bungled software update from CrowdStrike.

Australia was one of the many countries similarly hit, leading to massive mayhem. On Saturday, the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) - the country's cyber intelligence agency - said "a number of malicious websites and unofficial code are being released claiming to help entities recover from the widespread outages caused by the CrowdStrike technical incident".

On its website, the agency said its cyber security centre "strongly encourages all consumers to source their technical information and updates from official CrowdStrike sources only".

Likewise, a warning was also issued by Cyber Security Minister Clare O'Neil on the social media platform X, as she warned cybercriminals were targeting Australians with a fresh wave of scams and phishing attacks. She added that getting information from the right sources was key to avoiding cyber risks.

The Friday outage had quite a toll on key institutions in Australia. The Commonwealth Bank of Australia, the nation's largest bank, reported that it was having problems and that some clients could not process transactions. Qantas, the national airline, and the Sydney Airport said there were delays to flights but continued to operate.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese explained late Friday that there had been no impact on critical infrastructure, government services, or emergency phone systems. His reassurance contained fears about just how bad the effects of the outage were.

The warning by the cyber intelligence agency underlines the high risk of cyber threats following sweeping digital disruptions. At a time when digital disruption is happening at breakneck speed and things are getting increasingly complex, the importance of relying on checked and trustable sources for technical support and updates cannot be overemphasised. This incident underscores vulnerabilities that come with developments in technology and requirements for good cybersecurity measures to safeguard people from malignant elements.

Following a colossal digital blackout that engulfed the entire globe Friday, Australia's cyber intelligence agency issued a grim warning regarding the surge of "malicious websites and unofficial code" that could be doing the rounds on the web, promising recovery solutions.

Following a colossal digital blackout that engulfed the entire globe Friday, Australia's cyber intelligence agency issued a grim warning regarding the surge of "malicious websites and unofficial code" that could be doing the rounds on the web, promising recovery solutions. The massive outage was experienced by media, retailers, banks, and airlines across the world because of a bungled software update from CrowdStrike. Australia was one of the many countries similarly hit, leading to massive mayhem. On Saturday, the Australian Signals Directorate (ASD) - the country's cyber intelligence agency - said "a number of malicious websites and unofficial code are being released claiming to help entities recover from the widespread outages caused by the CrowdStrike technical incident". On its website, the agency said its cyber security centre "strongly encourages all consumers to source their technical information and updates from official CrowdStrike sources only". Likewise, a warning was also issued by Cyber Security Minister Clare O'Neil on the social media platform X, as she warned cybercriminals were targeting Australians with a fresh wave of scams and phishing attacks. She added that getting information from the right sources was key to avoiding cyber risks. The Friday outage had quite a toll on key institutions in Australia. The Commonwealth Bank of Australia, the nation's largest bank, reported that it was having problems and that some clients could not process transactions. Qantas, the national airline, and the Sydney Airport said there were delays to flights but continued to operate. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese explained late Friday that there had been no impact on critical infrastructure, government services, or emergency phone systems. His reassurance contained fears about just how bad the effects of the outage were. The warning by the cyber intelligence agency underlines the high risk of cyber threats following sweeping digital disruptions. At a time when digital disruption is happening at breakneck speed and things are getting increasingly complex, the importance of relying on checked and trustable sources for technical support and updates cannot be overemphasised. This incident underscores vulnerabilities that come with developments in technology and requirements for good cybersecurity measures to safeguard people from malignant elements.

Australia warns of scams post cyber outage

In an intriguing study, it has been found that the kangaroos in ancient times did not hop on two legs but walked on all fours when they roamed the prehistoric landscapes of Australia.

These mammoth&nbsp;“giant wallaby” kangaroos were ancestors of today's kangaroos and were not agile and bounding like them.

In the research, it was found that such contemporary kangaroos' extinct relatives travelled in quite a different way.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/giant-sea-animal-spotted-in-massachusetts-waters-in-rare-sighting-739100">Largest animal on Earth spotted in Massachusetts in rare sighting</a>

The ancestors of modern-day kangaroos were called Protemnodon which exhibited different kinds of locomotion techniques which emphasised the diverse evolutionary history of marsupials.

<h2>All about giant wallaby kangaroos</h2>

The extinct kangaroo species, called Protemnodon, was a giant wallaby which existed in the Pleistocene era. This era lasted between two and a half million to ten thousand years ago.

In comparison to modern kangaroos, these predecessors were far larger, however, they were not really hopping around, as per the latest study.

<h2>Ancient kangaroos walked on four legs: Study</h2>

It was earlier believed that even though they had large sizes, the ancient kangaroos hopped in a similar way to their descendants.

In a&nbsp;new study, conducted by a team of researchers, it&nbsp;has been found that these mega-marsupials were actually quadrupedal, which means they preferred to walk on all four legs.

University of Bristol's former master's student Billie Jones had earlier said that the giant wallaby has chances of being a quadrupedal.

The suggested theory was confirmed by the research team after they took a quantitative look at the animal's limb proportions.

Watch:&nbsp;Finger found in Ice Cream, followed by disturbing animal find in deliveries

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The scientists found that the limb proportions of Protemnodon were not like any other living kangaroos. It's short feet were one of the main reasons why it was believed Protemnodon was a quadrupedal creature.

“There had been some speculation in a graduate thesis from the University of Uppsala that it might have been more quadrupedal in its habits compared to living kangaroos,” said Jones, the study's lead author.

“This new paper draws on a couple of previous quantitative studies that looked at the anatomy of the humerus (upper arm bone) in a diversity of mammals, and concluded that&nbsp;Protemnodon&nbsp;habitually put more weight on its forelimbs than kangaroos today," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In an intriguing study, it has been found that the kangaroos in ancient times did not hop on two legs but walked on all fours when they roamed the prehistoric landscapes of Australia.

In an intriguing study, it has been found that the kangaroos in ancient times did not hop on two legs but walked on all fours when they roamed the prehistoric landscapes of Australia. These mammoth “giant wallaby” kangaroos were ancestors of today's kangaroos and were not agile and bounding like them. In the research, it was found that such contemporary kangaroos' extinct relatives travelled in quite a different way. Also Read: Largest animal on Earth spotted in Massachusetts in rare sighting The ancestors of modern-day kangaroos were called Protemnodon which exhibited different kinds of locomotion techniques which emphasised the diverse evolutionary history of marsupials. All about giant wallaby kangaroos The extinct kangaroo species, called Protemnodon, was a giant wallaby which existed in the Pleistocene era. This era lasted between two and a half million to ten thousand years ago. In comparison to modern kangaroos, these predecessors were far larger, however, they were not really hopping around, as per the latest study. Ancient kangaroos walked on four legs: Study It was earlier believed that even though they had large sizes, the ancient kangaroos hopped in a similar way to their descendants. In a new study, conducted by a team of researchers, it has been found that these mega-marsupials were actually quadrupedal, which means they preferred to walk on all four legs. University of Bristol's former master's student Billie Jones had earlier said that the giant wallaby has chances of being a quadrupedal. The suggested theory was confirmed by the research team after they took a quantitative look at the animal's limb proportions. Watch: Finger found in Ice Cream, followed by disturbing animal find in deliveries The scientists found that the limb proportions of Protemnodon were not like any other living kangaroos. It's short feet were one of the main reasons why it was believed Protemnodon was a quadrupedal creature. “There had been some speculation in a graduate thesis from the University of Uppsala that it might have been more quadrupedal in its habits compared to living kangaroos,” said Jones, the study's lead author. “This new paper draws on a couple of previous quantitative studies that looked at the anatomy of the humerus (upper arm bone) in a diversity of mammals, and concluded that Protemnodon habitually put more weight on its forelimbs than kangaroos today," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Giant kangaroos didn't hop on two legs, they walked on all fours in Australia

Australia's premier has told Russia to "back off" after its embassy criticized the arrest of two alleged Kremlin spies. Watch to know more.

Australia PM slams Russia, says it engages in espionage across world

In a heart-wrenching incident, an Australian man has been charged with burning three of his children and the rest of the family in a house fire. The incident took place in Western Sydney on Sunday (Jul 7) morning.

A five-month-old girl, a two-year-old boy and a six-year-old boy died in the blaze. Three boys - aged four, seven and 11 - and a nine-year-old girl survived, along with their mother.

The 28-year-old man (whose name is not revealed) is being charged with three counts of murder, five counts of attempted murder and one charge of destroying property. He is currently in hospital under police surveillance.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/japan-makes-it-mandatory-for-people-to-laugh-out-loud-once-a-day-739837">Japan makes it mandatory for people to laugh out loud once a day</a>

The father, who police allege started the inferno and then deliberately blocked rescue attempts, faced court on Thursday, appearing remotely in a bedside hearing.

The alleged attack took place around 01:00 local time (15:00 GMT) on Sunday morning in Lalor Park, according to witnesses, police, and emergency services.

The neighbours and first responders helped in the rescue of four surviving children and their mother.&nbsp;

The two- and six-year-old boys made it out of the house in a critical state but died in hospital a short time later. The five-month-old baby girl was found deceased.

The mother and her four surviving children are all in stable condition, according to police.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/senator-peter-welch-urges-biden-to-quit-2024-race-as-democrats-challenge-him-to-prove-re-election-viability-739787">Senator Peter Welch urges Biden to quit 2024 race, as Democrats challenge him to prove re-election viability</a>

Speaking after the accused faced court on Thursday morning, New South Wales Det Supt Danny Doherty said police would allege the man was the sole perpetrator.

He said police would allege the couple had a “domestic dispute” which then led to the alleged acts.

“What we will allege is that he prevented policemen and the neighbour getting into the premises, was holding on to the children, at least one child being the 11-year-old, had to be wrestled from that child, had to be wrestled away from the fire,” Doherty said.

The incident has horrified the country and comes at a time when Australia's government has declared domestic and family violence a "national crisis".

(With inputs from agencies)

In a heart-wrenching incident, an Australian man has been charged with burning three of his children and the rest of the family in a house fire. The incident took place in Western Sydney on Sunday (Jul 7) morning.

In a heart-wrenching incident, an Australian man has been charged with burning three of his children and the rest of the family in a house fire. The incident took place in Western Sydney on Sunday (Jul 7) morning. A five-month-old girl, a two-year-old boy and a six-year-old boy died in the blaze. Three boys - aged four, seven and 11 - and a nine-year-old girl survived, along with their mother. The 28-year-old man (whose name is not revealed) is being charged with three counts of murder, five counts of attempted murder and one charge of destroying property. He is currently in hospital under police surveillance. Also Read | Japan makes it mandatory for people to laugh out loud once a day The father, who police allege started the inferno and then deliberately blocked rescue attempts, faced court on Thursday, appearing remotely in a bedside hearing. The alleged attack took place around 01:00 local time (15:00 GMT) on Sunday morning in Lalor Park, according to witnesses, police, and emergency services. The neighbours and first responders helped in the rescue of four surviving children and their mother. The two- and six-year-old boys made it out of the house in a critical state but died in hospital a short time later. The five-month-old baby girl was found deceased. The mother and her four surviving children are all in stable condition, according to police. Also Read | Senator Peter Welch urges Biden to quit 2024 race, as Democrats challenge him to prove re-election viability Speaking after the accused faced court on Thursday morning, New South Wales Det Supt Danny Doherty said police would allege the man was the sole perpetrator. He said police would allege the couple had a “domestic dispute” which then led to the alleged acts. “What we will allege is that he prevented policemen and the neighbour getting into the premises, was holding on to the children, at least one child being the 11-year-old, had to be wrestled from that child, had to be wrestled away from the fire,” Doherty said. The incident has horrified the country and comes at a time when Australia's government has declared domestic and family violence a "national crisis". (With inputs from agencies)

Australian dad allegedly killed three children by setting house on fire and blocking exits

While Dingoes appear to be very similar to modern-day dogs and seem like&nbsp;they&nbsp;have similar DNA, that is not the case.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A new study conducted on the DNA of fossilised dingo has now revealed that they may not be the ancestors of modern dog breeds.

The dingoes have been in Australia for more than 3,000 years. In the study carried out, the DNA from fossilised dingo,&nbsp;which dates back to 2,746 years, was&nbsp;compared with the DNA from modern dingoes.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/this-incredibly-unusual-dinosaur-roamed-in-mississippi-more-than-80-million-years-ago-739175">This 'incredibly unusual' dinosaur roamed in Mississippi more than 80 million years ago</a>

It was found that K'gari dingoes do not have any domestic dog ancestry and that they are pure dingos.

<h2>Understanding the genetic landscape of dingoes</h2>

The researchers published the paper in the journal&nbsp;Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Paleogeneticist and co-lead author Dr Sally Wasef, who belongs to QUT's School of Biomedical Sciences, said that the DNA analysis gave a rare idea into the pre-colonial genetic landscape of dingoes which does not contain any mix of modern dog breeds.

"Consequently, they are behaviorally, genetically, and anatomically distinct from domestic dogs," said Dr Wasef.

&nbsp;"Modern-day dingoes' ancestors arrived in Australia more than 3,000 years ago, most likely transported by seafaring people. The samples we analysed represent the oldest ancient DNA recovered in Australia and indicate broad possibilities of future DNA and&nbsp;conservation work&nbsp;that could be carried out on dingoes and other animals," he added.

"Dingo populations are classified into east and west groups, which were previously thought to have formed during post-colonial human activity. Our findings show, however, that dingoes'&nbsp;population&nbsp;structure was already in place thousands of years ago, and clarify the genetic heritage of dingoes, while highlighting the importance of using ancient DNA for&nbsp;wildlife conservation," the author stated.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Finger found in Ice Cream, followed by disturbing animal find in deliveries

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/finger-found-in-ice-cream-followed-by-disturbing-animal-find-in-deliveries-733481/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"For example, all K'gari dingoes we analyzed do not have any domestic dog ancestry, proving they preserve their full ancestral heritage. Although we studied only a small number of K'gari dingoes, our findings highlight the importance and usefulness of our pre-colonial ancient genomic data in conserving our unique native animals. Due to poor human behaviour that causes some dingoes to become habituated to seeking food from tourists, several problem dingoes have been culled, which is concerning given their small population size," he added.

Meanwhile, the University of Adelaide's Australian Centre for Ancient DNA and Environment Institute co-lead author Dr Yassine Souilmi said that the ancient dingo DNA's unique dataset gave details regarding the migration patterns and ancestry of the modern-day dingo.

"Dingoes had distinct regional populations, split roughly along the Great Dividing Range, long before the European invasion of Australia, and certainly predating the dingo-proof fence," said Dr Souilmi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

While Dingoes appear to be very similar to modern-day dogs and seem like they have similar DNA, that is not the case. A new study conducted on the DNA of fossilised dingo has now revealed that they may not be the ancestors of modern dog breeds.

While Dingoes appear to be very similar to modern-day dogs and seem like they have similar DNA, that is not the case. A new study conducted on the DNA of fossilised dingo has now revealed that they may not be the ancestors of modern dog breeds. The dingoes have been in Australia for more than 3,000 years. In the study carried out, the DNA from fossilised dingo, which dates back to 2,746 years, was compared with the DNA from modern dingoes. Also Read: This 'incredibly unusual' dinosaur roamed in Mississippi more than 80 million years ago It was found that K'gari dingoes do not have any domestic dog ancestry and that they are pure dingos. Understanding the genetic landscape of dingoes The researchers published the paper in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Paleogeneticist and co-lead author Dr Sally Wasef, who belongs to QUT's School of Biomedical Sciences, said that the DNA analysis gave a rare idea into the pre-colonial genetic landscape of dingoes which does not contain any mix of modern dog breeds. "Consequently, they are behaviorally, genetically, and anatomically distinct from domestic dogs," said Dr Wasef. "Modern-day dingoes' ancestors arrived in Australia more than 3,000 years ago, most likely transported by seafaring people. The samples we analysed represent the oldest ancient DNA recovered in Australia and indicate broad possibilities of future DNA and conservation work that could be carried out on dingoes and other animals," he added. "Dingo populations are classified into east and west groups, which were previously thought to have formed during post-colonial human activity. Our findings show, however, that dingoes' population structure was already in place thousands of years ago, and clarify the genetic heritage of dingoes, while highlighting the importance of using ancient DNA for wildlife conservation," the author stated. Watch: Finger found in Ice Cream, followed by disturbing animal find in deliveries "For example, all K'gari dingoes we analyzed do not have any domestic dog ancestry, proving they preserve their full ancestral heritage. Although we studied only a small number of K'gari dingoes, our findings highlight the importance and usefulness of our pre-colonial ancient genomic data in conserving our unique native animals. Due to poor human behaviour that causes some dingoes to become habituated to seeking food from tourists, several problem dingoes have been culled, which is concerning given their small population size," he added. Meanwhile, the University of Adelaide's Australian Centre for Ancient DNA and Environment Institute co-lead author Dr Yassine Souilmi said that the ancient dingo DNA's unique dataset gave details regarding the migration patterns and ancestry of the modern-day dingo. "Dingoes had distinct regional populations, split roughly along the Great Dividing Range, long before the European invasion of Australia, and certainly predating the dingo-proof fence," said Dr Souilmi. (With inputs from agencies)

Dingoes are not ancestors of modern dog breeds, reveals ancient dingo's DNA

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