India have lost their top position in the latest men's Test team rankings, issued by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday (May 3). Australia,&nbsp;the reigning World Test champions, usurped the top spot from India who retained their numero uno ranking in ODI&nbsp;and T20Is.&nbsp;

Led by Pat Cummins, Australia beat India in the WTC final at Lord's last year, winning their first ICC silverware in the format. The win helped Australia (124) gain&nbsp;four points over India (120) while remaining 19 points clear of third-placed England (105).

India mainly slipped in the rankings as their 2-1 series win in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia was chalked out of consideration.&nbsp;

Notably, the latest rankings have been formulated by the ICC with respect to the closing of the previous WTC cycle in May 2021. Match results from May 2021 to May 2023 have 50 per cent weightage while results post May 2023 have 100 per cent weightage.&nbsp;

Only nine teams are now ranked as Afghanistan and Ireland are yet to play sufficient Tests, while Zimbabwe too is out as it has played only three Tests over the past three years.

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Australia on 🔝 
 
Reigning World Test Championship winners overtake India to claim the No.1 position on the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings after the annual update.<a href="https://t.co/rl0Ju11fNu">https://t.co/rl0Ju11fNu</a>
— ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/1786305654971314603?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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As for the WTC table, India are currently at the top of the pile with 74 points having a superior PCT (Points Percentage System) to Australia which is second with 90 points.&nbsp;The top two teams progress to the final at Lord’s in 2025.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/r-ashwin-eclipses-jasprit-bumrah-to-become-no-1-ranked-test-bowler-699702">Also read |&nbsp;R Ashwin replaces Jasprit Bumrah to become no. 1 ranked Test bowler</a>

<h2 id="icc_test_rankings_table_as_of_may_3rd_2024">ICC Test Rankings table as of May 3, 2024</h2>

<table border="1">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td>Rank</td>
			<td>Team&nbsp;</td>
			<td>Rating</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>1</td>
			<td>Australia</td>
			<td>124&nbsp;</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>2</td>
			<td>India</td>
			<td>120</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>3</td>
			<td>England&nbsp;</td>
			<td>105</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>4</td>
			<td>South Africa&nbsp;</td>
			<td>103</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>5</td>
			<td>New Zealand&nbsp;</td>
			<td>96</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>6</td>
			<td>Pakistan</td>
			<td>89</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>7</td>
			<td>Sri-Lanka</td>
			<td>83</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>8</td>
			<td>West Indies&nbsp;</td>
			<td>82</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>9</td>
			<td>Bangladesh</td>
			<td>53</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>10</td>
			<td>Zimbabwe&nbsp;&nbsp;</td>
			<td>23</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>11</td>
			<td>Ireland</td>
			<td>15</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>12</td>
			<td>Afghanistan&nbsp;</td>
			<td>0</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

(With inputs from agencies)

India have lost their top position in the latest men's Test team rankings, issued by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday (May 3). Australia, the reigning World Test champions, usurped the top spot from India who retained their numero uno ranking in ODI and T20Is.

India have lost their top position in the latest men's Test team rankings, issued by the International Cricket Council (ICC) on Friday (May 3). Australia, the reigning World Test champions, usurped the top spot from India who retained their numero uno ranking in ODI and T20Is. Led by Pat Cummins, Australia beat India in the WTC final at Lord's last year, winning their first ICC silverware in the format. The win helped Australia (124) gain four points over India (120) while remaining 19 points clear of third-placed England (105). India mainly slipped in the rankings as their 2-1 series win in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy in Australia was chalked out of consideration. Notably, the latest rankings have been formulated by the ICC with respect to the closing of the previous WTC cycle in May 2021. Match results from May 2021 to May 2023 have 50 per cent weightage while results post May 2023 have 100 per cent weightage. Only nine teams are now ranked as Afghanistan and Ireland are yet to play sufficient Tests, while Zimbabwe too is out as it has played only three Tests over the past three years. Australia on 🔝 Reigning World Test Championship winners overtake India to claim the No.1 position on the ICC Men’s Test Team Rankings after the annual update.https://t.co/rl0Ju11fNu — ICC (@ICC) May 3, 2024 × As for the WTC table, India are currently at the top of the pile with 74 points having a superior PCT (Points Percentage System) to Australia which is second with 90 points. The top two teams progress to the final at Lord’s in 2025. Also read | R Ashwin replaces Jasprit Bumrah to become no. 1 ranked Test bowler ICC Test Rankings table as of May 3, 2024 Rank Team Rating 1 Australia 124 2 India 120 3 England 105 4 South Africa 103 5 New Zealand 96 6 Pakistan 89 7 Sri-Lanka 83 8 West Indies 82 9 Bangladesh 53 10 Zimbabwe 23 11 Ireland 15 12 Afghanistan 0 (With inputs from agencies)

Latest ICC rankings: Australia topple India to usurp top spot in Tests

Australia on Wednesday (May 1) announced that the government will spend almost A$1 billion to tackle violence against women and added that it was committed to helping women escape violence. The government also called the issue a "national crisis" of gendered violence.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the issue after an emergency meeting of state and federal leaders. He announced A$925.2 million ($600 million) to make permanent a programme of financial support for those escaping domestic violence.&nbsp;

Albanese attacked "toxic male extremist" views online as he announced a range of measures to combat deepfake pornography on the internet and promote healthier attitudes towards women.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-family-of-covid-19-variants-nicknamed-flirt-are-on-the-rise-in-us-all-you-need-to-know-717030">New family of Covid-19 variants nicknamed ‘FLiRT’ are on the rise in US | All you need to know</a>&nbsp;

He said, "This is indeed a national crisis and it's a national challenge and we are facing this with a spirit of national unity. Today is about who we are as a nation and as a society."&nbsp;

"We recognise that governments need to act but we also recognise that this is an issue for the whole of society, not just for governments," he said, adding that it is an issue for civil society, it's an issue for the media, it's an issue for everyone to work together in the national interest to deal with what is a "scourge of violence against women".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/52-year-old-climber-dies-in-1000-foot-fall-from-alaska-mountain-716993">52-year-old climber dies in 1,000-foot fall from Alaska mountain</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;The world marks International Worker's day commonly known as May Day

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The prime minister said that his government did not underestimate how difficult policing content on the internet would be but "online players need to understand exactly what the consequences are of a free for all online".&nbsp;

This comes after thousands took to the streets on Saturday (Apr 27) and Sunday (Apr 28) to protest violence against women, which the government says has killed a woman every four days this year.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Australia on Wednesday (May 1) announced that the government will spend almost A$1 billion to tackle violence against women and added that it was committed to helping women escape violence.

Australia on Wednesday (May 1) announced that the government will spend almost A$1 billion to tackle violence against women and added that it was committed to helping women escape violence. The government also called the issue a "national crisis" of gendered violence. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addressed the issue after an emergency meeting of state and federal leaders. He announced A$925.2 million ($600 million) to make permanent a programme of financial support for those escaping domestic violence. Albanese attacked "toxic male extremist" views online as he announced a range of measures to combat deepfake pornography on the internet and promote healthier attitudes towards women. Also read: New family of Covid-19 variants nicknamed ‘FLiRT’ are on the rise in US | All you need to know He said, "This is indeed a national crisis and it's a national challenge and we are facing this with a spirit of national unity. Today is about who we are as a nation and as a society." "We recognise that governments need to act but we also recognise that this is an issue for the whole of society, not just for governments," he said, adding that it is an issue for civil society, it's an issue for the media, it's an issue for everyone to work together in the national interest to deal with what is a "scourge of violence against women". Also read: 52-year-old climber dies in 1,000-foot fall from Alaska mountain Watch: The world marks International Worker's day commonly known as May Day × The prime minister said that his government did not underestimate how difficult policing content on the internet would be but "online players need to understand exactly what the consequences are of a free for all online". This comes after thousands took to the streets on Saturday (Apr 27) and Sunday (Apr 28) to protest violence against women, which the government says has killed a woman every four days this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia to spend A$1bn to tackle violence against women, take steps to fight deepfake porn

Australia’s newest low-cost airline Bonza, on Tuesday (Apr 30) suspended all flights and entered voluntary administration, regulatory filings showed amid concerns about the viability of its business and has potentially left thousands of passengers stranded.

<h2>About the collapse of the airline</h2>

The collapse of the Australian airline came&nbsp;around 15 months after Bonza launched its services with the backing of 777 Partners, a United States-based investment firm.&nbsp;

In a statement, the budget carrier said that it suspended all services for the day amid discussions about the “ongoing viability of the business”. It also apologised to the customers who have been impacted by the decision.&nbsp;

“We apologise to our customers who are impacted by this and we’re working as quickly as possible to determine a way forward that ensures there is ongoing competition in the Australian domestic aviation market,” said CEO Tim Jordan.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/uber-pulls-the-plug-shuts-down-all-operations-across-pakistan-716760">Uber pulls the plug, shuts down all operations across Pakistan</a>

Bonza launched its services last year and has been the first to enter the market in Australia since 2007.&nbsp;

Notably, the market in Canberra is dominated by Qantas and Virgin Australia, which together control about 90 per cent of Australia’s airline market, reported Reuters.&nbsp;

The budget airlines, before it suspended its operations, connected small regional airports across Australia to main cities like Melbourne and Gold Coast.&nbsp;

Bonza had sought to shake up the country’s competitive aviation sector with cut-price tickets. However, the airline has previously garnered criticism due to flight cancellations and the suspension of some routes.

Additionally, speculation was also rife about the Bonza’s future after its reported inability to secure access to take-off and landing spots in Sydney, which is said to be a lucrative market.&nbsp;

<h2>Cancellations and control of flights</h2>

The announcement prompted the Australian government to set up a hotline for passengers who have been affected.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the country’s Transport Minister Catherine King said that she has also spoken to other airlines about helping those stranded and both Qantas and Virgin have agreed to offer assistance.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinese-firms-navigate-payment-hurdles-amid-russia-trade-troubles-716162">Chinese firms navigate payment hurdles amid Russia trade troubles</a>

King also said the government’s priority is to ensure stranded Australians reach home safely and quickly.&nbsp;

A report by Reuters citing an anonymous source said AIP Capital had begun to take control of Bonza’s four Boeing 737-Max-8 aircraft just after midnight on Tuesday.&nbsp;

When asked if the government would bail out Bonza, King told state broadcaster ABC that the government’s role is to “ensure that we have a strong aviation sector within Australia” but bailing the airlines out “is not something that the government has before us.”

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia’s newest low-cost airline Bonza, on Tuesday (Apr 30) suspended all flights and entered voluntary administration, regulatory filings showed amid concerns about the viability of its business and has potentially left thousands of passengers stranded.

Australia’s newest low-cost airline Bonza, on Tuesday (Apr 30) suspended all flights and entered voluntary administration, regulatory filings showed amid concerns about the viability of its business and has potentially left thousands of passengers stranded. About the collapse of the airline The collapse of the Australian airline came around 15 months after Bonza launched its services with the backing of 777 Partners, a United States-based investment firm. In a statement, the budget carrier said that it suspended all services for the day amid discussions about the “ongoing viability of the business”. It also apologised to the customers who have been impacted by the decision. “We apologise to our customers who are impacted by this and we’re working as quickly as possible to determine a way forward that ensures there is ongoing competition in the Australian domestic aviation market,” said CEO Tim Jordan. Also Read | Uber pulls the plug, shuts down all operations across Pakistan Bonza launched its services last year and has been the first to enter the market in Australia since 2007. Notably, the market in Canberra is dominated by Qantas and Virgin Australia, which together control about 90 per cent of Australia’s airline market, reported Reuters. The budget airlines, before it suspended its operations, connected small regional airports across Australia to main cities like Melbourne and Gold Coast. Bonza had sought to shake up the country’s competitive aviation sector with cut-price tickets. However, the airline has previously garnered criticism due to flight cancellations and the suspension of some routes. Additionally, speculation was also rife about the Bonza’s future after its reported inability to secure access to take-off and landing spots in Sydney, which is said to be a lucrative market. Cancellations and control of flights The announcement prompted the Australian government to set up a hotline for passengers who have been affected. Meanwhile, the country’s Transport Minister Catherine King said that she has also spoken to other airlines about helping those stranded and both Qantas and Virgin have agreed to offer assistance. Also Read | Chinese firms navigate payment hurdles amid Russia trade troubles King also said the government’s priority is to ensure stranded Australians reach home safely and quickly. A report by Reuters citing an anonymous source said AIP Capital had begun to take control of Bonza’s four Boeing 737-Max-8 aircraft just after midnight on Tuesday. When asked if the government would bail out Bonza, King told state broadcaster ABC that the government’s role is to “ensure that we have a strong aviation sector within Australia” but bailing the airlines out “is not something that the government has before us.” (With inputs from agencies)

Australian budget airline Bonza enters voluntary administration, leaves passengers stranded

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday described domestic violence as a “national crisis” after thousands rallied around the country against violence toward women. Watch in for more details!

Australian PM Albanese says domestic violence is a 'national crisis'

The police in Australia uncovered a sinister plot where four teenagers had planned to buy guns and attack Jewish people, reported the Australian media citing official documents, on Monday (Apr 29). The plot reportedly surfaced days after a teenager allegedly stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel at a church, earlier this month.&nbsp;

<h2>What were the teenagers planning?</h2>

Five teenagers, aged between 14 and 17, were charged with a range of offences including conspiring to engage in or planning a terrorist act, on Thursday (Apr 25) in a Sydney court, reported the Associated Press.

According to the documents, four boys, a 15-year-old, a 16-year-old and two 17-year-olds allegedly used Signal, an encrypted messaging app to plan their attack. The police also alleged that they all “adhered to a religiously motivated, violent extremist ideology”.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-police-arrest-7-teen-extremists-linked-to-sydney-church-stabbing-714576">Australian police arrest 7 teen extremists linked to Sydney church stabbing</a>

The law enforcement officials said they were part of a network which included the 16-year-old who allegedly stabbed Emmanuel on April 15 during a church service.&nbsp;

“I wanna die and I wanna kill...I’m just excited...Is your plan to get caught or die or escape?” a 17-year-old allegedly said in a group chat on 20 April, as quoted by the AP.&nbsp;

“We’re gonna be planning for a while...we prefer to escape, but whatever happens, it’s the qadr (predetermination) of Allah,” a 16-year-old allegedly responded.&nbsp;

In a separate conversation, on April 19, a 15-year-old allegedly said, “I really want to target the yahood,” meaning Jewish people.&nbsp;

The 16-year-old allegedly said “I know the bloke who done it,” referring to the teenager who allegedly stabbed the bishop, adding “he’s my mate.”

<h2>Plot to buy guns</h2>

The Australian media, citing a police fact sheet, said two of the defendants discussed buying guns on April 19, the day that the 16-year-old who allegedly stabbed the bishop was charged.&nbsp;

Notably, Australia has strict laws against gun ownership, but Sydney reportedly has a black market for firearms.&nbsp;

The teens were among those arrested by the Australian police in raids across Sydney, last week, for allegedly following a violent extremist ideology.&nbsp;

New South Wales Police Deputy Commissioner David Hudson, on Wednesday (Apr 24) said that the raids which involved over 400 police officers who executed 13 search warrants took place as the suspects were considered an immediate threat.&nbsp;

<h2>Emmanuel's&nbsp;first sermon after stabbing</h2>

The Assyrian bishop returned to the church on Sunday (Apr 28) and spoke about losing sight in his right eye after the attack.

The 53-year-old bishop was seen in the church wearing an eyepatch and delivering sermons marking the Assyrian Orthodox Palm Sunday.

“This young man who did this act almost two weeks ago, I say to you, my dear, you are my son and you will always be my son,” said Emmanuel in comments posted on social media.

He added, “I will always pray for you. I will always wish you nothing but the best.”

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-church-stabbing-16-year-old-charged-for-allegedly-committing-a-terrorist-act-713054">Sydney church stabbing: 16-year-old charged for allegedly ‘committing a terrorist act’</a>

On Sunday, the parents of the alleged attacker spoke publicly for the first time in an interview with ABC News.&nbsp;

They detailed what happened that day as well as their son’s ‘serious anger management issues and history of violence.’

The investigation also found that before the attack, the alleged perpetrator had been interacting with extremists online and had a suspected autism spectrum disorder.&nbsp;

His parents maintained that their son was not a terrorist. The report citing an expert said that teenager’s longstanding mental health concerns and a suspected cognitive disorder left him vulnerable to radicalisation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The police in Australia uncovered a sinister plot where four teenagers had planned to buy guns and attack Jewish people, reported the Australian media citing official documents, on Monday (Apr 29).

The police in Australia uncovered a sinister plot where four teenagers had planned to buy guns and attack Jewish people, reported the Australian media citing official documents, on Monday (Apr 29). The plot reportedly surfaced days after a teenager allegedly stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel at a church, earlier this month. What were the teenagers planning? Five teenagers, aged between 14 and 17, were charged with a range of offences including conspiring to engage in or planning a terrorist act, on Thursday (Apr 25) in a Sydney court, reported the Associated Press. According to the documents, four boys, a 15-year-old, a 16-year-old and two 17-year-olds allegedly used Signal, an encrypted messaging app to plan their attack. The police also alleged that they all “adhered to a religiously motivated, violent extremist ideology”. Also Read | Australian police arrest 7 teen extremists linked to Sydney church stabbing The law enforcement officials said they were part of a network which included the 16-year-old who allegedly stabbed Emmanuel on April 15 during a church service. “I wanna die and I wanna kill...I’m just excited...Is your plan to get caught or die or escape?” a 17-year-old allegedly said in a group chat on 20 April, as quoted by the AP. “We’re gonna be planning for a while...we prefer to escape, but whatever happens, it’s the qadr (predetermination) of Allah,” a 16-year-old allegedly responded. In a separate conversation, on April 19, a 15-year-old allegedly said, “I really want to target the yahood,” meaning Jewish people. The 16-year-old allegedly said “I know the bloke who done it,” referring to the teenager who allegedly stabbed the bishop, adding “he’s my mate.” Plot to buy guns The Australian media, citing a police fact sheet, said two of the defendants discussed buying guns on April 19, the day that the 16-year-old who allegedly stabbed the bishop was charged. Notably, Australia has strict laws against gun ownership, but Sydney reportedly has a black market for firearms. The teens were among those arrested by the Australian police in raids across Sydney, last week, for allegedly following a violent extremist ideology. New South Wales Police Deputy Commissioner David Hudson, on Wednesday (Apr 24) said that the raids which involved over 400 police officers who executed 13 search warrants took place as the suspects were considered an immediate threat. Emmanuel's first sermon after stabbing The Assyrian bishop returned to the church on Sunday (Apr 28) and spoke about losing sight in his right eye after the attack. The 53-year-old bishop was seen in the church wearing an eyepatch and delivering sermons marking the Assyrian Orthodox Palm Sunday. “This young man who did this act almost two weeks ago, I say to you, my dear, you are my son and you will always be my son,” said Emmanuel in comments posted on social media. He added, “I will always pray for you. I will always wish you nothing but the best.” Also Read | Sydney church stabbing: 16-year-old charged for allegedly ‘committing a terrorist act’ On Sunday, the parents of the alleged attacker spoke publicly for the first time in an interview with ABC News. They detailed what happened that day as well as their son’s ‘serious anger management issues and history of violence.’ The investigation also found that before the attack, the alleged perpetrator had been interacting with extremists online and had a suspected autism spectrum disorder. His parents maintained that their son was not a terrorist. The report citing an expert said that teenager’s longstanding mental health concerns and a suspected cognitive disorder left him vulnerable to radicalisation. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia: Teens planned to buy guns, attack Jewish people after Sydney bishop was stabbed

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, during his visit to the city of Lviv, announced a military aid package for Ukraine worth $100 million.

The aid package included short-range air defences, drones along with air-to-ground precision munitions coming separately.

While speaking at a press briefing with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Marles asserted that the military aid by Australia is one of the many contributions set to be made to Ukrainian armed forces in the coming months.

“Today we are announcing the next package of support for Ukraine totalling 100 million dollars. 50 million of that is dedicated to short-range air defence systems. 30 million, as the Prime Minister said, to the purchase of drones as part of Australia being a part of the drone coalition being led by the United Kingdom and Latvia,” Marles said.

"We understand that this will be an enduring conflict and we will be contributing more in the future because we are determined to stand side by side with Ukraine for as long as it takes for Ukraine to prevail," he added.

Australia, on April 17 announced that it would increase the defence spending by A$50.3 billion ($32 billion) in the next 10 years and also make changes in its weapons program emphasising more on missiles, drones and warships as it foresees the possibility of a Pacific conflict between China and the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yemens-houthis-claim-missile-strike-on-andromeda-star-oil-tanker-in-red-sea-715518">Yemen's Houthis claim missile strike on Andromeda Star oil tanker in Red Sea</a>

<h2>Russia sends troops to eastern Ukraine in a bid to reinforce offensive</h2>

Meanwhile, Russia, in a bid to reinforce its offensive sent more troops to the eastern town of Ocheretyne.

However, Kyiv's forces, which hold most part of the village, expect the arms delivery by the United States to help them win the battle, said the Ukrainian military on Saturday (Apr 27).

Russian armed forces have so far gradually progressed towards the eastern front in over half a dozen villages after seizing the bastion town of Avdiivka in the month of February.

Fighting erupted in Ocheretyne on Saturday, however, Nazar Voloshyn, spokesman for the eastern command, said that the Ukrainian forces had the situation under control and hold two-thirds of the village.

<h2>Zelensky calls for air defence systems&nbsp;</h2>

Amid Russian advances, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday called for additional air defence systems to be sent to Kyiv in its fight against Moscow.&nbsp;

At the start of a virtual meeting led by the United States on helping arm Ukraine, Zelensky said, "This year, Russian jets (have) already used more than 9,000 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine and we need the ability to shoot down the air combat aircraft so that they do not approach our positions and borders."&nbsp;

"While we were waiting for a decision on the American support, the Russian army managed to seize the initiative on the battlefield," Zelensky said.

"We can still now, not only stabilize the front but also move forward achieving our Ukrainian goals in the war," he added.&nbsp;

Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, during his visit to the city of Lviv, announced a military aid package for Ukraine worth $100 million. The aid package included short-range air defences, drones along with air-to-ground precision munitions coming separately.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, during his visit to the city of Lviv, announced a military aid package for Ukraine worth $100 million. The aid package included short-range air defences, drones along with air-to-ground precision munitions coming separately. While speaking at a press briefing with Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal, Marles asserted that the military aid by Australia is one of the many contributions set to be made to Ukrainian armed forces in the coming months. “Today we are announcing the next package of support for Ukraine totalling 100 million dollars. 50 million of that is dedicated to short-range air defence systems. 30 million, as the Prime Minister said, to the purchase of drones as part of Australia being a part of the drone coalition being led by the United Kingdom and Latvia,” Marles said. "We understand that this will be an enduring conflict and we will be contributing more in the future because we are determined to stand side by side with Ukraine for as long as it takes for Ukraine to prevail," he added. Australia, on April 17 announced that it would increase the defence spending by A$50.3 billion ($32 billion) in the next 10 years and also make changes in its weapons program emphasising more on missiles, drones and warships as it foresees the possibility of a Pacific conflict between China and the United States. Also read: Yemen's Houthis claim missile strike on Andromeda Star oil tanker in Red Sea Russia sends troops to eastern Ukraine in a bid to reinforce offensive Meanwhile, Russia, in a bid to reinforce its offensive sent more troops to the eastern town of Ocheretyne. However, Kyiv's forces, which hold most part of the village, expect the arms delivery by the United States to help them win the battle, said the Ukrainian military on Saturday (Apr 27). Russian armed forces have so far gradually progressed towards the eastern front in over half a dozen villages after seizing the bastion town of Avdiivka in the month of February. Fighting erupted in Ocheretyne on Saturday, however, Nazar Voloshyn, spokesman for the eastern command, said that the Ukrainian forces had the situation under control and hold two-thirds of the village. Zelensky calls for air defence systems Amid Russian advances, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday called for additional air defence systems to be sent to Kyiv in its fight against Moscow. At the start of a virtual meeting led by the United States on helping arm Ukraine, Zelensky said, "This year, Russian jets (have) already used more than 9,000 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine and we need the ability to shoot down the air combat aircraft so that they do not approach our positions and borders." "While we were waiting for a decision on the American support, the Russian army managed to seize the initiative on the battlefield," Zelensky said. "We can still now, not only stabilize the front but also move forward achieving our Ukrainian goals in the war," he added. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos (With inputs from agencies)

Australia announces $100 million military aid package for Ukraine

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called domestic violence a "national crisis" as thousands of citizens took to the streets across the country to protest over violence against women.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called domestic violence a "national crisis" as thousands of citizens took to the streets across the country to protest over violence against women. "A national crisis demands a national response," said Albanese on Monday (April 29), in a statement shared on social media platform X. "That's why I'm bringing together National Cabinet on Wednesday morning to take action on violence against women," he said. Also Read: Australian Defence Minister announces $100 million military aid package for Ukraine As per the reports, 27 women have lost their lives so far in Australia this year allegedly because of acts of gender-based violence. Women in Australia deserve better, governments have to do better and as a society we have to do better. That's why we'll be convening the National Cabinet with one issue on the agenda: immediate, meaningful and practical action to address family violence. — Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) April 28, 2024 × A national crisis demands a national response. That's why I'm bringing together National Cabinet on Wednesday morning to take action on violence against women. pic.twitter.com/y8jlLHNUSL — Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) April 29, 2024 × "The fact that ... a woman dies every four days on average at the hand of a partner is just a national crisis," said the prime minister, while speaking to Nine Network television. People call for tougher laws on violence against women Thousands of people participated in rallies organised in various Australian cities on Sunday (April 28) and appealed for tougher laws on violence against women. In the capital city of Canberra, Albanese, his Women's Minister Katy Gallagher and Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth also tried to attend the protest when they received a hostile response. The protesters also yelled at the government leaders, "We want action" and "Do your job." Albanese added that there was a need to increase focus on perpetrators and prevention of violence. Watch: Australia keeps China in sight, unveils new defence strategy "Society and Australia must do better, We need to change the culture, we need to change attitudes, we need to change the legal system," said Australian PM Albanese, at the No More rally which was organised by advocacy group What Were You Wearing. “It’s not enough to support victims. We need to focus on the perpetrators, focus on prevention," he added. “We’re here today to demand that governments of all levels must do better, including my own, including every state and territory government. It’s up to men to change men’s behaviour as well," Albanese said to the rally. The prime minister on Monday (April 29) said that the rallies were a call for all levels of the Australian government to take more steps to prevent the violence. "Women in Australia deserve better, governments have to do better and as a society we have to do better," said Albanese on X. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian PM Albanese calls domestic violence a national 'crisis' amid protests

Amid the whirlwind of political debates, press conferences, and crisis management, it's easy to forget that behind the podium stands a person, with their own struggles and vulnerabilities. Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison's recent revelation about his battle with anxiety is now highlighting the human side of political leadership.

During his tenure in office, Morrison navigated through turbulent times, grappling with crises like Covid-19 pandemic, devastating bushfires, and strained international relations with China. Behind the scenes, he was waging another battle - a silent struggle with anxiety that threatened to overwhelm him.

In a candid interview with The Australian, Morrison described his anxiety as "debilitating and agonising." He confessed, "I think it just built up." "You're flesh and blood, and so it would start to impact you," he reflected.

Recognising the gravity of his condition, Morrison sought help from a doctor in Canberra, who prescribed medication to alleviate his symptoms. 
 
In his new book, "Plans for Your Good: A Prime Minister's Testimony of God's Faithfulness," Morrison reflected on this, writing, "My doctor was amazed I had lasted as long as I had before seeking help. Without this help, serious depression would have manifested."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-govt-denies-blame-for-jamboree-disaster-last-year-715368">South Korean govt denies blame for Jamboree disaster last year</a>

"You dread the future and you can't get out of bed," he shared. "It can shut you down mentally and physically. It robs you of your joy and can damage relationships. I know this from personal experience."

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-wine-production-dropped-10-in-2023-climate-change-blamed-for-downfall-715325">Global wine production dropped 10% in 2023, climate change blamed for decline</a>

In sharing his story, Morrison, who suffered from "unrelenting and callous brutality of politics" is now hoping to destigmatise mental illness, particularly within the political sphere.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/philippines-government-disowns-president-marcos-deepfake-audio-which-urges-combat-with-china-715363">Philippines government disowns President Marcos' deepfake audio which urges combat with China</a>

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"Politicians are not made of stone, yet they're often treated as though they are, including by each other," he remarked. In one interview with ABC news, he said that the illness doesn't impede one's ability to perform at a high level.

Morrison backed this up by highlighting his achievements during this period, including securing the AUKUS defence pact with the US and UK. "Because I sought help I was fully functional. [It is] important that people understand that this doesn't have to hold you back. I went on to land Aukus in the midst of this," he noted.&nbsp;

Morrison's openness about his mental health journey now added him to a growing list of world leaders who have shared similar struggles - from New Zealand's former Prime Minister&nbsp;Jacinda Ardern's battles with burnout to former US lawmaker Patrick Kennedy publicly acknowledging his struggles with substance use and bipolar disorder&nbsp;in 2006.

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the whirlwind of political debates, press conferences, and crisis management, it's easy to forget that behind the podium stands a person, with their own struggles and vulnerabilities.

Amid the whirlwind of political debates, press conferences, and crisis management, it's easy to forget that behind the podium stands a person, with their own struggles and vulnerabilities. Former Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison's recent revelation about his battle with anxiety is now highlighting the human side of political leadership. During his tenure in office, Morrison navigated through turbulent times, grappling with crises like Covid-19 pandemic, devastating bushfires, and strained international relations with China. Behind the scenes, he was waging another battle - a silent struggle with anxiety that threatened to overwhelm him. In a candid interview with The Australian, Morrison described his anxiety as "debilitating and agonising." He confessed, "I think it just built up." "You're flesh and blood, and so it would start to impact you," he reflected. Recognising the gravity of his condition, Morrison sought help from a doctor in Canberra, who prescribed medication to alleviate his symptoms. In his new book, "Plans for Your Good: A Prime Minister's Testimony of God's Faithfulness," Morrison reflected on this, writing, "My doctor was amazed I had lasted as long as I had before seeking help. Without this help, serious depression would have manifested." Also Read | South Korean govt denies blame for Jamboree disaster last year "You dread the future and you can't get out of bed," he shared. "It can shut you down mentally and physically. It robs you of your joy and can damage relationships. I know this from personal experience." Also Read | Global wine production dropped 10% in 2023, climate change blamed for decline In sharing his story, Morrison, who suffered from "unrelenting and callous brutality of politics" is now hoping to destigmatise mental illness, particularly within the political sphere. Watch | Philippines government disowns President Marcos' deepfake audio which urges combat with China × "Politicians are not made of stone, yet they're often treated as though they are, including by each other," he remarked. In one interview with ABC news, he said that the illness doesn't impede one's ability to perform at a high level. Morrison backed this up by highlighting his achievements during this period, including securing the AUKUS defence pact with the US and UK. "Because I sought help I was fully functional. [It is] important that people understand that this doesn't have to hold you back. I went on to land Aukus in the midst of this," he noted. Morrison's openness about his mental health journey now added him to a growing list of world leaders who have shared similar struggles - from New Zealand's former Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern's battles with burnout to former US lawmaker Patrick Kennedy publicly acknowledging his struggles with substance use and bipolar disorder in 2006. (With inputs from agencies)

‘You’re flesh and blood’: Ex-Australia PM Scott Morrison opens up about his battle with ‘debilitating’ anxiety

The owner of social media platform X, Elon Musk, on Tuesday (April 23) said that they will challenge an Australian injunction which has asked the platform to remove the videos of the church stabbing incident that took place in Sydney.

The owner of social media platform X, Elon Musk, on Tuesday (April 23) said that they will challenge an Australian injunction which has asked the platform to remove the videos of the church stabbing incident that took place in Sydney. An injunction was secured by Australia's internet watchdog late Monday as per which X is supposed to hide videos which allegedly showed someone allegedly slashing a Sydney bishop in the head during a live-streamed sermon. The pleas of the Australian government to pull down the images were earlier ignored by X and Musk had stated that the company would appeal against the injunction on free speech grounds. Also Read: Elon Musk postpones India trip, aims to visit later this year "Our concern is that if ANY country is allowed to censor content for ALL countries, which is what the Australian 'eSafety Commissar' is demanding, then what is to stop any country from controlling the entire Internet," posted the tech billionaire on X. "We have already censored the content in question for Australia, pending legal appeal, and it is stored only on servers in the USA," he said. Australian PM Albanese calls Musk "arrogant billionaire" Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said that Musk is an "arrogant billionaire" who is not able to see the distress caused by the videos. "We'll do what's necessary to take on this arrogant billionaire who thinks he's above the law, but also above common decency," said Albanese, while speaking to public broadcaster ABC. "The idea that someone would go to court for the right to put up violent content on a platform shows how out-of-touch Mr Musk is," he added. A late-night injunction was granted to Australia's eSafety Commission which forced X to remove the church stabbing footage for the next two days as further arguments remained pending. The videos were blocked by X in Australia, however, they are still visible to users in other parts of the world. Australia vs tech giants A 16-year-old suspect had last week slashed bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel in the head and chest which sparked a riot by the Assyrian Christian church's followers in western Sydney. Watch: Elon Musk announces new X feature - Community Posts The government authorities in Australia have blamed the video of the bloody attack, which was widely circulated on social media platforms, for increasing tensions in the community. Australia, with its groundbreaking "Online Safety Act" which was passed in 2021, has made efforts to hold tech giants accountable for the posts made by their users online. Recently, X was slapped with a fine of $388,000 by the watchdog for not being able to show how it is combatting child sexual abuse content. (With inputs from agencies)

Musk to challenge order on removal of Australian church stabbing videos from X

Australia's Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services Stephen Jones on Monday (Apr 22) strongly criticised Elon Musk's social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), labelling it a "factory for trolls and misinformation."&nbsp;

This comes as the Australian government pledged to defend against any legal actions X may initiate over the authorities' content removal demands related to a video of last week's Sydney church stabbing.

<h2>X content removal controversy</h2>

The controversy began after eSafety commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, issued an order last Tuesday for X and Meta to remove videos depicting a violent stabbing incident at a church in Sydney.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-opposes-tiktok-ban-in-us-citing-free-speech-713204" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-opposes-tiktok-ban-in-us-citing-free-speech-713204&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfwdSI6dSFAxVBXmwGHd-bA-IQFnoECAAQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw3l53zEElukQLyw5hfZpv_9&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-opposes-tiktok-ban-in-us-citing-free-speech-713204" target="_blank">Elon Musk&nbsp;opposes TikTok ban in US, citing free speech</a>

While Meta complied, X resisted, arguing that the demands exceeded the scope of Australian law and accused&nbsp;the Australian regulator of enforcing "global censorship." It also said it would challenge the order in court.

In a post on X, Elon Musk said: "The Australian censorship commissar is demanding *global* content bans!".

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The Australian censorship commissar is demanding *global* content bans! <a href="https://t.co/CRLglUYYIG">https://t.co/CRLglUYYIG</a>
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1781394185951563973?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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Jones, as per The Guardian, responded assertively, saying the government "will fight it" in court if necessary.

"At the same time we're looking at all of the laws across these areas to ensure that our regulators have the power to do what is necessary to keep our online platforms safe," he said in a conversation with ABC. &nbsp;

"And then Twitter can't be the place where criminals go, where cranks and crooks go to propagate their messages. At the moment, it's a factory for trolls and misinformation that damages the brand of the company, but it does a lot of damage to social cohesion in the process."

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/elon-musk-postpones-india-trip-aims-to-visit-later-this-year-713256" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/elon-musk-postpones-india-trip-aims-to-visit-later-this-year-713256&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjfwdSI6dSFAxVBXmwGHd-bA-IQFnoECAcQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2PbS9Q4b9K_QPFdm4tj-Cb&amp;fexp=72519171,72519168" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/elon-musk-postpones-india-trip-aims-to-visit-later-this-year-713256" target="_blank">Elon Musk&nbsp;postpones India trip, aims to visit later this year</a>

He also expressed disappointment in Musk's approach to the situation and said: "Decency can't be dead. And I think any Australian looking at that would go: 'Come on.' Like it's a pretty simple and straightforward request. It's a lawful request."

Australia's minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme told ABC that X was acting like it was "above the laws of a nation".

"It is entirely unexceptional of a nation to say we want to take down some of the most violent and shocking footage, and somehow for them to say we've got freedom of speech, but we're allowed to pollute the metaphorical airwaves with horrible vile and imagery—no one gets to vote for X. They do vote for governments and governments are accountable."

"So I do think what the eSafety commission has done [is] exactly right. It is about protecting citizens," he stressed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia's Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services Stephen Jones on Monday (Apr 22) strongly criticised Elon Musk's social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), labelling it a "factory for trolls and misinformation.

Australia's Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services Stephen Jones on Monday (Apr 22) strongly criticised Elon Musk's social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), labelling it a "factory for trolls and misinformation." This comes as the Australian government pledged to defend against any legal actions X may initiate over the authorities' content removal demands related to a video of last week's Sydney church stabbing. X content removal controversy The controversy began after eSafety commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, issued an order last Tuesday for X and Meta to remove videos depicting a violent stabbing incident at a church in Sydney. Also read | Elon Musk opposes TikTok ban in US, citing free speech While Meta complied, X resisted, arguing that the demands exceeded the scope of Australian law and accused the Australian regulator of enforcing "global censorship." It also said it would challenge the order in court. In a post on X, Elon Musk said: "The Australian censorship commissar is demanding *global* content bans!". The Australian censorship commissar is demanding *global* content bans! https://t.co/CRLglUYYIG — Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 19, 2024 × Jones, as per The Guardian, responded assertively, saying the government "will fight it" in court if necessary. "At the same time we're looking at all of the laws across these areas to ensure that our regulators have the power to do what is necessary to keep our online platforms safe," he said in a conversation with ABC. "And then Twitter can't be the place where criminals go, where cranks and crooks go to propagate their messages. At the moment, it's a factory for trolls and misinformation that damages the brand of the company, but it does a lot of damage to social cohesion in the process." Also read | Elon Musk postpones India trip, aims to visit later this year He also expressed disappointment in Musk's approach to the situation and said: "Decency can't be dead. And I think any Australian looking at that would go: 'Come on.' Like it's a pretty simple and straightforward request. It's a lawful request." Australia's minister for the National Disability Insurance Scheme told ABC that X was acting like it was "above the laws of a nation". "It is entirely unexceptional of a nation to say we want to take down some of the most violent and shocking footage, and somehow for them to say we've got freedom of speech, but we're allowed to pollute the metaphorical airwaves with horrible vile and imagery—no one gets to vote for X. They do vote for governments and governments are accountable." "So I do think what the eSafety commission has done [is] exactly right. It is about protecting citizens," he stressed. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian MP responds to Musk's 'global censorship' remark, calls X a 'factory for trolls and misinformation'

Australia has urged its citizens in Israel to depart if it is safe to do so amidst the Israel-Iran tensions. There is a high threat of military reprisals and terrorist attacks against Israel and Israeli interest across the region.

Israel-Iran tensions: Australia urges citizens to leave Israel | Explosions heard in Central Iran

A 16-year-old Australian teenager has been charged with “committing a terrorist act” after he allegedly stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel at a church <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-rocked-by-another-stabbing-incident-as-man-assaults-priest-worshippers-on-camera-711496">earlier this week</a>. The police said that the bishop who was stabbed at least six times is in stable condition in the hospital.&nbsp;

<h2>About the hearing</h2>

The teenager was charged in the Parramatta children’s court on Friday (Apr 19) morning after he attended a hospital bedside hearing while recovering from the surgery. The alleged perpetrator’s finger was severed during the attack on Monday (Apr 15) night.&nbsp;

The police on Thursday (Apr 18) night announced that the teenager had been charged and he had been refused bail. The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. &nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Stabbed Sydney bishop forgives attacker, says 'recovering quickly'

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After the attack, a mob of thousands descended on the church and clashed with police demanding that the boy face justice.&nbsp;

The attack, which left several people injured, took place in Sydney’s south-west during a live-streamed service at Christ the Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley.&nbsp;

The bishop is said to have sustained lacerations to his head while 39-year-old Father Isaac Royel received cuts and a shoulder injury after he attempted to intervene.&nbsp;

The police had searched the teenager’s electronic devices at his home and interviewed him at the hospital before charging him.&nbsp;

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Defence lawyer Greg Scragg told the court that they are engaging a forensic psychologist to visit the alleged attacker in hospital and “assess him for treatment and in relation to his fitness,” adding that the teenager has a “long history of behaviour consistent with suffering from a mental illness and or mental condition and or mental disorder,” reported state broadcaster ABC News.&nbsp;

<h2>One arrested for&nbsp;'rioting'</h2>

On Friday, thousands of Muslims across Sydney went for regular prayers amid fears of retaliatory attacks. The footage of the incident shows the boy being restrained by the congregation and shouting at Emmanuel for insulting Islam.

The attack on Monday night sparked protests and hours later, one of the largest mosques in Australia, Lakemba mosque, also received fire bomb threats.

On Thursday, the police said that Dani Mansour, 19, was charged with rioting, affray and destroying or damaging property. He was the first person to be charged after the unrest.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-police-say-investigating-church-stabbing-incident-as-a-terrorist-act-711683">Australian police treating church stabbing incident as a 'terrorist attack'</a>

Emmanuel, on Thursday, pleaded for peace and said that he had forgiven his attacker in an almost four-minute audio message recorded in the hospital. He also reassured his followers that his condition was improving.

The teenager was arrested at the scene after the attack but had to be kept in the church for his own safety after a large and angry crowd of the bishop’s followers demanded that the boy be handed over to them.

The police and the crowd reportedly clashed for more than three hours. The riots left over 50 police officers injured and around 20 police cars were damaged.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A 16-year-old Australian teenager has been charged with “committing a terrorist act” after he allegedly stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel at a church earlier this week.

A 16-year-old Australian teenager has been charged with “committing a terrorist act” after he allegedly stabbed Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel at a church earlier this week. The police said that the bishop who was stabbed at least six times is in stable condition in the hospital. About the hearing The teenager was charged in the Parramatta children’s court on Friday (Apr 19) morning after he attended a hospital bedside hearing while recovering from the surgery. The alleged perpetrator’s finger was severed during the attack on Monday (Apr 15) night. The police on Thursday (Apr 18) night announced that the teenager had been charged and he had been refused bail. The offence carries a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. WATCH | Stabbed Sydney bishop forgives attacker, says 'recovering quickly' After the attack, a mob of thousands descended on the church and clashed with police demanding that the boy face justice. The attack, which left several people injured, took place in Sydney’s south-west during a live-streamed service at Christ the Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley. The bishop is said to have sustained lacerations to his head while 39-year-old Father Isaac Royel received cuts and a shoulder injury after he attempted to intervene. The police had searched the teenager’s electronic devices at his home and interviewed him at the hospital before charging him. Also Read | Sydney mall stabbing: Man wrongly identified as attacker sues Australian channel Defence lawyer Greg Scragg told the court that they are engaging a forensic psychologist to visit the alleged attacker in hospital and “assess him for treatment and in relation to his fitness,” adding that the teenager has a “long history of behaviour consistent with suffering from a mental illness and or mental condition and or mental disorder,” reported state broadcaster ABC News. One arrested for 'rioting' On Friday, thousands of Muslims across Sydney went for regular prayers amid fears of retaliatory attacks. The footage of the incident shows the boy being restrained by the congregation and shouting at Emmanuel for insulting Islam. The attack on Monday night sparked protests and hours later, one of the largest mosques in Australia, Lakemba mosque, also received fire bomb threats. On Thursday, the police said that Dani Mansour, 19, was charged with rioting, affray and destroying or damaging property. He was the first person to be charged after the unrest. Also Read | Australian police treating church stabbing incident as a 'terrorist attack' Emmanuel, on Thursday, pleaded for peace and said that he had forgiven his attacker in an almost four-minute audio message recorded in the hospital. He also reassured his followers that his condition was improving. The teenager was arrested at the scene after the attack but had to be kept in the church for his own safety after a large and angry crowd of the bishop’s followers demanded that the boy be handed over to them. The police and the crowd reportedly clashed for more than three hours. The riots left over 50 police officers injured and around 20 police cars were damaged. (With inputs from agencies)

Sydney church stabbing: 16-year-old charged for allegedly ‘committing a terrorist act’

After a hiatus spanning seven decades, the well-known Devil Comet has made its grand reappearance in the night sky above Australia.&nbsp;

The devil comet is dubbed as 12P/Pons-Brooks, a periodic comet in our solar system that was discovered independently by astronomers Jean-Louis Pons and William Robert Brooks. The designation "12P" indicates that it was the 12th periodic comet to be discovered.

This comet follows an elliptical orbit around the Sun, and it has a periodicity of about 71.5 years. Its last perihelion passage (closest approach to the Sun) occurred in 2018.&nbsp;

Comet Pons-Brooks is part of the Jupiter family of comets. This means its orbit is influenced by Jupiter's gravity. When it approaches the inner solar system, it can become visible from Earth, sometimes even with the naked eye, depending on its brightness and proximity to our planet.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/hubbles-latest-marvel-twin-jet-nebula-stuns-everyone-713001">Hubble's latest marvel: Twin Jet Nebula stuns everyone!</a>

Like many comets, 12P/Pons-Brooks consists of ice, dust, and rocky material. As it gets closer to the Sun during its orbit, the heat causes the ice to vaporise, creating a glowing coma (the comet's atmosphere) and a tail that points away from the Sun due to the solar wind.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/garbage-to-fuel-aviation-of-future-researchers-show-way-for-sustainable-skies-712970">Garbage to fuel aviation of future? Researchers show way for sustainable skies</a>

Measuring nearly 34 kilometres in diametre at its core, this comet, characterised by its hue, is sometimes compared with Halley's comet.&nbsp;

<h2>Spotting the comet&nbsp;</h2>

Astrophysicist Brad Tucker of the Australian National University reportedly noted the current challenge in spotting the Devil comet. He anticipates its visibility to improve gradually over the next week as it approaches the sun, reaching its pinnacle brightness on April 22.

Watch | Study says climate change to shrink global GDP by $38 trillion by 2050

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As the comet journeys closer to the sun, its cryovolcanic nature becomes apparent, spewing water vapour and other materials from its core. This activity, alongside its diatomic carbon composition, contributes to its unique greenish hue. Comets like these are now understood as remnants from the dawn of the solar system, composed of ice and dirt, often referred to as "dirty snowballs."

(With inputs from agencies)

After a hiatus spanning seven decades, the well-known Devil Comet has made its grand reappearance in the night sky above Australia. The devil comet is dubbed as 12P/Pons-Brooks, a periodic comet in our solar system that was discovered independently by astronomers Jean-Louis Pons and William Robert Brooks.

After a hiatus spanning seven decades, the well-known Devil Comet has made its grand reappearance in the night sky above Australia. The devil comet is dubbed as 12P/Pons-Brooks, a periodic comet in our solar system that was discovered independently by astronomers Jean-Louis Pons and William Robert Brooks. The designation "12P" indicates that it was the 12th periodic comet to be discovered. This comet follows an elliptical orbit around the Sun, and it has a periodicity of about 71.5 years. Its last perihelion passage (closest approach to the Sun) occurred in 2018. Comet Pons-Brooks is part of the Jupiter family of comets. This means its orbit is influenced by Jupiter's gravity. When it approaches the inner solar system, it can become visible from Earth, sometimes even with the naked eye, depending on its brightness and proximity to our planet. Also Read | Hubble's latest marvel: Twin Jet Nebula stuns everyone! Like many comets, 12P/Pons-Brooks consists of ice, dust, and rocky material. As it gets closer to the Sun during its orbit, the heat causes the ice to vaporise, creating a glowing coma (the comet's atmosphere) and a tail that points away from the Sun due to the solar wind. Also Read | Garbage to fuel aviation of future? Researchers show way for sustainable skies Measuring nearly 34 kilometres in diametre at its core, this comet, characterised by its hue, is sometimes compared with Halley's comet. Spotting the comet Astrophysicist Brad Tucker of the Australian National University reportedly noted the current challenge in spotting the Devil comet. He anticipates its visibility to improve gradually over the next week as it approaches the sun, reaching its pinnacle brightness on April 22. Watch | Study says climate change to shrink global GDP by $38 trillion by 2050 × As the comet journeys closer to the sun, its cryovolcanic nature becomes apparent, spewing water vapour and other materials from its core. This activity, alongside its diatomic carbon composition, contributes to its unique greenish hue. Comets like these are now understood as remnants from the dawn of the solar system, composed of ice and dirt, often referred to as "dirty snowballs." (With inputs from agencies)

Devil Comet makes spectacular return after 7 decades, graces Australian skies

Police have arrested a 15-year-old boy after Sydney was rocked by yet another stabbing incident on Monday (Apr 15), this time in a church. Footage of the incident showed a man walking up to the alter in the ‘Christ The Good Shepherd Church’ in Wakeley and then brutally stabbing a bishop and several worshippers. Watch in for more details!

Sydney Church Attack: Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel calls attacker his son, forgives him

A Sydney man, Benjamin Cohen is suing an Australian channel after he was wrongly identified as the attacker in the incident that shocked the country’s biggest city. At least six people were killed when a knife-wielding man went on a stabbing spree at a crowded shopping centre in Sydney over the weekend.&nbsp;

<h2>'Disappointed'</h2>

Cohen, 20, is suing Australia’s Seven Network after he was wrongly identified as the attacker in the mass stabbing incident in the Westfield Bondi Junction mall on Saturday (Apr 13).&nbsp;

The university student has hired defamation lawyers and issued a concerns notice to the Australian channel, Patrick George of the law firm Giles/George confirmed, on Wednesday (Apr 17) morning.&nbsp;

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Cohen has engaged two of Australia’s foremost defamation lawyers, Patrick as his solicitor and Sue Chrysanthou as his barrister.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sydney-rocked-by-another-stabbing-incident-as-man-assaults-priest-worshippers-on-camera-711496">Another stabbing incident rocks Sydney as man assaults four in church, 15-year-old boy arrested</a>

The 20-year-old has sought damages from the broadcaster, which on Sunday (Apr 14) morning named Cohen, a student at the University of Technology Sydney, as the perpetrator.&nbsp;

Joel Cauchi, who was identified as the attacker, was fatally shot by the police during his knife attack. The officials have since ruled out terrorism and said the 40-year-old had a history of mental illness.

The 20-year-old university student’s name was trending on X until Sunday with more than 70,000 posts naming him as the unconfirmed killer. The Australian channel later described him as “40-year-old lone-wolf attacker Benjamin Cohen”.

However, Cohen’s family told ABC News that the Seven had contacted them and explained that a junior social media editor made the error. However, the channel did not reveal where their newsroom got the university student’s name from.&nbsp;

In a statement to Guardian Australia, Cohen said that he was disappointed to see “thousands of people mindlessly propagating misinformation” without fact-checking or considering the real-life consequences.&nbsp;

He added, “But what’s even more disappointing to me is a major news network doing this, using my name without waiting for a statement from police to verify this or going out to try to verify it themselves.”

The channel later issued an on-air apology saying that it “apologises for any distress caused by our earlier reports.”&nbsp;

<h2>Westfield Bondi Junction mall to reopen</h2>

The shopping centre which was the site of the deadly attack will re-open for shoppers on Friday (Apr 19). The Scentre Group, which operates Westfield malls in Australia and New Zealand, said that the security and police presence will be ramped up when the shopping centre re-opens.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/women-may-have-been-target-of-sydney-knife-attacker-australian-police-711339">Women may have been 'target' of Sydney knife attacker: Australian police</a>

The mall will also be open a day earlier for a “community reflection day” which will allow people to pay their respects to the victims of the tragedy and recognise that “things don’t return back to normal immediately,” said the CEO of the group, Elliott Rusanow.&nbsp;

<h2>Nine-month-old baby out of ICU</h2>

A nine-month-old baby girl who was among those injured in the attack and has been in the intensive care unit (ICU) since, is out of ICU now, after she sustained&nbsp;chest and arm injuries.&nbsp;

The daughter of one of the victims, identified as Ashlee Good killed during the attack, was taken to the hospital in serious condition but is now stable, said health officials.&nbsp;

Six, including the infant girl, remained hospitalised following the assault, with two women in critical condition, said a spokesperson for New South Wales Health.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

A Sydney man, Benjamin Cohen is suing an Australian channel after he was wrongly identified as the attacker in the incident that shocked the country’s biggest city.

A Sydney man, Benjamin Cohen is suing an Australian channel after he was wrongly identified as the attacker in the incident that shocked the country’s biggest city. At least six people were killed when a knife-wielding man went on a stabbing spree at a crowded shopping centre in Sydney over the weekend. 'Disappointed' Cohen, 20, is suing Australia’s Seven Network after he was wrongly identified as the attacker in the mass stabbing incident in the Westfield Bondi Junction mall on Saturday (Apr 13). The university student has hired defamation lawyers and issued a concerns notice to the Australian channel, Patrick George of the law firm Giles/George confirmed, on Wednesday (Apr 17) morning. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, Cohen has engaged two of Australia’s foremost defamation lawyers, Patrick as his solicitor and Sue Chrysanthou as his barrister. Also Read | Another stabbing incident rocks Sydney as man assaults four in church, 15-year-old boy arrested The 20-year-old has sought damages from the broadcaster, which on Sunday (Apr 14) morning named Cohen, a student at the University of Technology Sydney, as the perpetrator. Joel Cauchi, who was identified as the attacker, was fatally shot by the police during his knife attack. The officials have since ruled out terrorism and said the 40-year-old had a history of mental illness. The 20-year-old university student’s name was trending on X until Sunday with more than 70,000 posts naming him as the unconfirmed killer. The Australian channel later described him as “40-year-old lone-wolf attacker Benjamin Cohen”. However, Cohen’s family told ABC News that the Seven had contacted them and explained that a junior social media editor made the error. However, the channel did not reveal where their newsroom got the university student’s name from. In a statement to Guardian Australia, Cohen said that he was disappointed to see “thousands of people mindlessly propagating misinformation” without fact-checking or considering the real-life consequences. He added, “But what’s even more disappointing to me is a major news network doing this, using my name without waiting for a statement from police to verify this or going out to try to verify it themselves.” The channel later issued an on-air apology saying that it “apologises for any distress caused by our earlier reports.” Westfield Bondi Junction mall to reopen The shopping centre which was the site of the deadly attack will re-open for shoppers on Friday (Apr 19). The Scentre Group, which operates Westfield malls in Australia and New Zealand, said that the security and police presence will be ramped up when the shopping centre re-opens. Also Read | Women may have been 'target' of Sydney knife attacker: Australian police The mall will also be open a day earlier for a “community reflection day” which will allow people to pay their respects to the victims of the tragedy and recognise that “things don’t return back to normal immediately,” said the CEO of the group, Elliott Rusanow. Nine-month-old baby out of ICU A nine-month-old baby girl who was among those injured in the attack and has been in the intensive care unit (ICU) since, is out of ICU now, after she sustained chest and arm injuries. The daughter of one of the victims, identified as Ashlee Good killed during the attack, was taken to the hospital in serious condition but is now stable, said health officials. Six, including the infant girl, remained hospitalised following the assault, with two women in critical condition, said a spokesperson for New South Wales Health. (With inputs from agencies)

Sydney mall stabbing: Man wrongly identified as attacker sues Australian channel

Australia has unveiled its first national defence strategy that signals a new focus on deterring China's sea of tactics in line with its plans.

Australia keeps China in sight, unveils new defence strategy

Australian boxing head coach Jamie Pittman has admitted to sexual misconduct towards female fighters and withdrawn from the upcoming Paris Olympics. The former professional boxer allegedly committed 11 offences during three separate trips with the boxing teams between July and October last year.

Australian boxing head coach Jamie Pittman has admitted to sexual misconduct towards female fighters and withdrawn from the upcoming Paris Olympics. The former professional boxer allegedly committed 11 offences during three separate trips with the boxing teams between July and October last year. The Combat Institute of Australia, acting on behalf of several elite boxers, levelled the accusations against Pittman and served him with a breach notice for abuse, bullying and sexual misconduct. Australia's National Sports Tribunal - an independent government body, heard the case against Pittman last month, the details of which were made public on Wednesday (Apr 17). “Once he [Pittman] considered the evidence, he didn’t want to cause any further stress or anxiety to the athletes who were preparing for the upcoming Olympic Games, withdrew his expression of interest to coach at those Games and accepted the breach,” the tribunal stated. "The body found Pittman's conduct ‘disgusting’, ‘shocking’, ‘inappropriate’, ‘gross’ and ‘offensive’.” “Common to nine of the 11 instances of prohibited conduct are inappropriate comments or conduct involving the sexual objectification of women that is puerile, infantile and lacking in sensitivity or awareness. Especially by someone of Mr Pittman’s seniority and standing in the boxing community who should be leading by example." Quizzed about the allegations, the Queenslander who represented Australia at the 2004 Olympics and 2002 Commonwealth Games, said he will not attend the Paris Games in July. "It's all in there for you to read," said Pittman. Also read | Paris Olympics: Cyclists association chief blast'against the spirit' prize money policy of world athletics Six-month ban recommended The tribunal has recommended a six-month ban on Pittman and written apologies to a team physiotherapist and at least two athletes. The 'disgraced' coach must also partake in a training course on anti-discrimination, anti-harassment, anti-bullying and anti-sexual misconduct within 60 days. Notably, in one of the incidents, Pittman took a photo of a female fighter from behind as she bent over and later showed it to another team member. In another shocking incident, Pittman is alleged to have said, "How f**king hot are some of the girls in here," at an October 2023 team camp in Italy and telling a fighter, "Yummy, yes please" when a female boxer walked past him. The Paris Olympics are less than four months away and the scandal has the potential to severely derail the momentum of fighters, experts said. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian boxing head coach Jamie Pittman quits Paris Olympics after admitting to sexual misconduct

An Australian Court confirmed that a parliament staffer raped his colleague inside the country's Parliament. Court's confirmation comes 3 years after the allegations were first made.

Lehrmann's defamation case: Judge finds staffer raped colleague inside Australian parliament

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Church stabbing was 'terrorist attack' | US NSA postpones India visit

A French man who heroically confronted the knife-wielding Sydney mall attacker with the help of a bollard has been offered permanent residency by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

A French man who heroically confronted the knife-wielding Sydney mall attacker with the help of a bollard has been offered permanent residency by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Damien Guerot who is being called the 'bollard man' received praise from the Australian PM. "I say this to Damien Guerot who is dealing with his visa applications, that you are welcome here, you are welcome to stay for as long as you like. This is someone who we would welcome becoming an Australian citizen, although that would of course be a loss for France. We thank him for his extraordinary bravery," Albanese said. "It says a lot about the nature of humanity at a time when we are facing difficult issues, that someone who is not a citizen of this country stood bravely at the top of those escalators and stopped this perpetrator from getting onto another floor and potentially inflicting further carnage on citizens," he added. Also read: Another stabbing incident rocks Sydney as man assaults four in church, 15-year-old boy arrested What happened in Bondi Junction? 40-year-old Joel Cauchi on Saturday (April 13) went on a stabbing spree in the Westfield shopping centre at Bondi Junction, Australia. He stabbed six people including 5 female shoppers and one Pakistani security guard. Twelve others were injured in the attack, including a nine-month-old whose mother was killed. An Australian police woman shot the culprit at the scene. It is suspected that the attacker might have specifically targeted women. Who is the bollard man? Footage of Damien Guerot confronting knifeman Joel Cauchi with a bollard during the attack made rounds of social media. The video shows Guerot wielding a plastic pole to ward the attacker off on an escalator. "We just saw him coming... we were thinking, 'We need to try to stop him'," Guerot said in an interview with Australian TV network. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian PM offers permanent residency to French man who confronted Sydney mall stabber

Australia's New South Wales police said that they have been investigating a bishop's alleged stabbing during the live stream of a mass in Sydney on Monday (April 15) as a terrorist attack.

Premier Chris Minns said that the decision to investigate it as a terrorist attack was taken on Tuesday (April 16).&nbsp;

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said that they have established a strike force to investigate the incident.&nbsp;

“This is a major and serious criminal investigation. It is crucial that New South Wales police are able to devote their resources and intelligence as well as officers to the investigation of this crime," said Minns, on Tuesday.

After the prominent Orthodox Christian leader was stabbed at the church's altar, hundreds of people got on the streets and clashed with the police in western Sydney on Monday night.

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The police arrested a 15-year-old boy after the incident.

<h2>How did the stabbing incident occur in church?</h2>

The stabbing incident took place at the Christ The Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley, Sydney.

In the incident, at least four people were stabbed, however, the police confirmed that none of them suffered life-threatening injuries. The incident led to unrest.

As hundreds of people clashed with the police officials after the incident, two of them suffered injuries and 20 police vehicles suffered damages.

Police Chief Commissioner Karen Webb said the police are hunting down those who were involved in the riots and called their actions "unacceptable".

A crowd of people then “converged on that area and began to turn on police”, said Webb. According to the police, the crowd, which was initially made up of around 50 people, grew to approximately 500.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Sydney attack: Sydney mall attack victims identified

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sydney-attack-sydney-mall-attack-victims-identified-711543/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“People used what was available to them in the area, including bricks, concrete palings, to assault police, and throw missiles at police and police equipment, and police vehicles," stated the police.

Few police officers suffered injuries and were taken to hospital overnight, said Webb.

“That is unacceptable and those that were involved in that riot can expect a knock at the door. It might not be today. It might not be tomorrow. But we’ll find you and we’ll come and arrest you. That is totally unacceptable," he said.&nbsp;

The incident occurred a day after&nbsp;40-year-old Joel Cauchi created chaos and panic amid the crowd in the Westfield Bondi Junction complex in Sydney as he&nbsp;stabbed six&nbsp;people - out of which five were women - using a long blade.

(With inputs from agencies)

Australia's New South Wales police said that they have been investigating a bishop's alleged stabbing during the live stream of a mass in Sydney on Monday (April 15) as a terrorist attack.

Australia's New South Wales police said that they have been investigating a bishop's alleged stabbing during the live stream of a mass in Sydney on Monday (April 15) as a terrorist attack. Premier Chris Minns said that the decision to investigate it as a terrorist attack was taken on Tuesday (April 16). NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb said that they have established a strike force to investigate the incident. “This is a major and serious criminal investigation. It is crucial that New South Wales police are able to devote their resources and intelligence as well as officers to the investigation of this crime," said Minns, on Tuesday. After the prominent Orthodox Christian leader was stabbed at the church's altar, hundreds of people got on the streets and clashed with the police in western Sydney on Monday night. Also Read: Another stabbing incident rocks Sydney as man assaults four in church, 15-year-old boy arrested The police arrested a 15-year-old boy after the incident. How did the stabbing incident occur in church? The stabbing incident took place at the Christ The Good Shepherd Church in Wakeley, Sydney. In the incident, at least four people were stabbed, however, the police confirmed that none of them suffered life-threatening injuries. The incident led to unrest. As hundreds of people clashed with the police officials after the incident, two of them suffered injuries and 20 police vehicles suffered damages. Police Chief Commissioner Karen Webb said the police are hunting down those who were involved in the riots and called their actions "unacceptable". A crowd of people then “converged on that area and began to turn on police”, said Webb. According to the police, the crowd, which was initially made up of around 50 people, grew to approximately 500. Watch: Sydney attack: Sydney mall attack victims identified “People used what was available to them in the area, including bricks, concrete palings, to assault police, and throw missiles at police and police equipment, and police vehicles," stated the police. Few police officers suffered injuries and were taken to hospital overnight, said Webb. “That is unacceptable and those that were involved in that riot can expect a knock at the door. It might not be today. It might not be tomorrow. But we’ll find you and we’ll come and arrest you. That is totally unacceptable," he said. The incident occurred a day after 40-year-old Joel Cauchi created chaos and panic amid the crowd in the Westfield Bondi Junction complex in Sydney as he stabbed six people - out of which five were women - using a long blade. (With inputs from agencies)

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Moving on Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has offered indefinite visa for a French citizen who fended off a knife-wielding Sydney Mall attacker with a bollard.

Australian PM Anthony Albanese to 'Bollard Man': Stay as long as you like'

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Australians are mourning the death of five women and a Pakistani security guard, who were killed in a stabbing attack at a Sydney shopping centre. The incident happened last week.

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In a significant development in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-court-begins-trial-of-former-staffer-bruce-lehrmann-accused-of-sexual-assault-in-parliament-house-522340">years-long case</a> which has rocked Australian politics, where&nbsp;former government staffer Bruce Lehrmann was accused of rape by his colleague, and&nbsp;had sought to clear his name by suing one of the country’s largest television networks for defamation, was found guilty of the crime, on Monday (Apr 15).&nbsp;

<h2>What happened in court?</h2>

The verdict on Monday brings an end to the complex case involving government ministers, media personalities and political staff in several complicated legal and civil battles, which has captivated Australians and people worldwide since 2021.&nbsp;

On Monday, Justice Michael Lee declared he was satisfied, on the balance of probabilities that Lehrmann raped his then-colleague Brittany Higgins in 2019.&nbsp;

“Mr Lehrmann raped Miss Higgins” and told “deliberate lies,” Lee said at the end of the lengthy ruling which took place in a Federal Court in Sydney.&nbsp;

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The verdict stems from Higgins’ allegations in 2021, who said that she was raped by a colleague in an exclusive television interview with Network Ten’s “The Project” programme, where she detailed how Lehrmann raped her inside Parliament House after a night of drinking in 2019.

This led to a criminal trial a year later where Lehrmann pleaded not guilty to one charge of sexual intercourse without consent and denied that any sexual activity occurred.&nbsp;

However, the 2022 criminal trial was aborted due to one juror's misconduct, in December of that year. The prosecutors later dropped the charges against Lehrmann saying that a retrial would pose a risk to Higgins’ mental health.&nbsp;

Lee also noted how Lehrmann had escaped without any charges but went on to sue the network for defamation, a move which backfired and has now led to him being labelled a rapist.

“Having escaped the lion’s den, Mr Lehrmann made the mistake of going back for his hat,” said the judge.&nbsp;

Lee found that the two had sex that night, but since Higgins was so inebriated she could not have possibly given her consent, and that Lehrmann did not seek to obtain it.&nbsp;

The judge also considered it “more likely than not in those early hours, after a long night of conviviality and drinking and having successfully brought Ms Higgins back to a secluded place, Mr Lehrmann was hellbent on having sex” with Higgins and was “indifferent” to whether she wanted to as well.

Therefore, Lee ruled in favour of the Australian network. Notably, the standard of proof in defamation cases is lower than in criminal proceedings as judges are required to make findings about the case only on the balance of probabilities, rather than the “beyond reasonable doubt”.

However, he was also critical of the media outlet saying that the rape allegations were intertwined with the cover-up and the program’s team had “strong indications of the unreliability of their main source”.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Omnishambles’</h2>

Lee found that accusations of Higgins’ bosses in the Liberal Party had tried to cover up the allegations or pressure her was “objectively short on facts, but long on speculation”. Overall, the judge said, the case has been an “omnishambles”.&nbsp;

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He also criticised the network for its approach to seeking a comment from Lehrmann saying there were better ways to get in touch with him. “He was not living the life of a hermit,” said Lee.

After the ruling, Lehrmann left the court and did not make any comment to the reporters standing outside.&nbsp;

Higgins’ claims were dramatically reported on by the network, during which she had not named Lehrmann. However, he accused the show’s presenter Lisa Wilkinson of damaging his reputation after she provided enough information during the programme to know it was him.&nbsp;

Lee after examining notes, texts, social media messages, emails, hours of audio and CCTV footage of the night in question.&nbsp;

The judge found that he was a “far surer guide” about what happened that night than the testimonies of either Lehrmann or Higgins calling her also an “unsatisfactory witness”.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

In a significant development in the years-long case which has rocked Australian politics, where former government staffer Bruce Lehrmann was accused of rape by his colleague, and had sought to clear his name by suing one of the country’s largest television networks for defamation, was found guilty of the crime, on Monday (Apr 15).

In a significant development in the years-long case which has rocked Australian politics, where former government staffer Bruce Lehrmann was accused of rape by his colleague, and had sought to clear his name by suing one of the country’s largest television networks for defamation, was found guilty of the crime, on Monday (Apr 15). What happened in court? The verdict on Monday brings an end to the complex case involving government ministers, media personalities and political staff in several complicated legal and civil battles, which has captivated Australians and people worldwide since 2021. On Monday, Justice Michael Lee declared he was satisfied, on the balance of probabilities that Lehrmann raped his then-colleague Brittany Higgins in 2019. “Mr Lehrmann raped Miss Higgins” and told “deliberate lies,” Lee said at the end of the lengthy ruling which took place in a Federal Court in Sydney. Also Read | Iran to allow Indian govt representatives to meet 17 citizens onboard seized cargo ship The verdict stems from Higgins’ allegations in 2021, who said that she was raped by a colleague in an exclusive television interview with Network Ten’s “The Project” programme, where she detailed how Lehrmann raped her inside Parliament House after a night of drinking in 2019. This led to a criminal trial a year later where Lehrmann pleaded not guilty to one charge of sexual intercourse without consent and denied that any sexual activity occurred. However, the 2022 criminal trial was aborted due to one juror's misconduct, in December of that year. The prosecutors later dropped the charges against Lehrmann saying that a retrial would pose a risk to Higgins’ mental health. Lee also noted how Lehrmann had escaped without any charges but went on to sue the network for defamation, a move which backfired and has now led to him being labelled a rapist. “Having escaped the lion’s den, Mr Lehrmann made the mistake of going back for his hat,” said the judge. Lee found that the two had sex that night, but since Higgins was so inebriated she could not have possibly given her consent, and that Lehrmann did not seek to obtain it. The judge also considered it “more likely than not in those early hours, after a long night of conviviality and drinking and having successfully brought Ms Higgins back to a secluded place, Mr Lehrmann was hellbent on having sex” with Higgins and was “indifferent” to whether she wanted to as well. Therefore, Lee ruled in favour of the Australian network. Notably, the standard of proof in defamation cases is lower than in criminal proceedings as judges are required to make findings about the case only on the balance of probabilities, rather than the “beyond reasonable doubt”. However, he was also critical of the media outlet saying that the rape allegations were intertwined with the cover-up and the program’s team had “strong indications of the unreliability of their main source”. ‘Omnishambles’ Lee found that accusations of Higgins’ bosses in the Liberal Party had tried to cover up the allegations or pressure her was “objectively short on facts, but long on speculation”. Overall, the judge said, the case has been an “omnishambles”. Also Read | Israeli envoy Naor Gilon recognises Indian de-escalation efforts amid conflict with Iran He also criticised the network for its approach to seeking a comment from Lehrmann saying there were better ways to get in touch with him. “He was not living the life of a hermit,” said Lee. After the ruling, Lehrmann left the court and did not make any comment to the reporters standing outside. Higgins’ claims were dramatically reported on by the network, during which she had not named Lehrmann. However, he accused the show’s presenter Lisa Wilkinson of damaging his reputation after she provided enough information during the programme to know it was him. Lee after examining notes, texts, social media messages, emails, hours of audio and CCTV footage of the night in question. The judge found that he was a “far surer guide” about what happened that night than the testimonies of either Lehrmann or Higgins calling her also an “unsatisfactory witness”. (With inputs from agencies)

Judge finds ex-staffer Bruce Lehrmann raped Brittany Higgins inside Australian parliament

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