<p>In a supposed veiled attack on China, the foreign minister of QUAD nations, on Friday (September 22), expressed concerns about the militarisation of disputed features, and the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-pm-modis-attendance-underscores-aseans-indo-pacific-importance-says-indonesian-ambassador-628738">Indo-Pacific</a> while reaffirming that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity underpin the development of the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The remarks were made in a joint statement after a meeting of foreign ministers of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-to-host-quad-summit-in-2024-594495">Quad grouping</a> – Australia, India, Japan and the United States – on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the Indo-Pacific</strong></h2>

<p>The meeting included the foreign ministers of the four-nation bloc: Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We reaffirm our conviction that international law, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the maintenance of peace and security in the maritime domain underpin the development and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific,” said the Quad nation’s foreign ministers, in the joint statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They also emphasised the importance of adherence to international law and the UN charter to address challenges to the global maritime rules-based order which includes “respect to maritime claims, and in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/can-south-china-sea-dispute-escalate-into-a-full-scale-war-414263">South and East China Seas.</a>”&nbsp;</p>

<p>China’s aggressive behaviour in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-installs-ground-stations-in-disputed-south-china-sea-to-monitor-vessels-report-637869">South China Sea</a> and Indo-Pacific was quite evident after it released the 2023 edition of its so-called <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-map-claiming-regions-beyond-its-border-is-aggression-shows-beijings-character-630176">“standard map”</a> back in August, which included parts of India’s Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Aksai Chin region, Taiwan and some regions of the disputed South China Sea, as part of China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In an apparent reference to China, the statement said, “We continue to express serious concern about the militarisation of disputed features, the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels, and efforts to disrupt other countries’ offshore exploitation activities.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “We strongly support the principles of freedom, the rule of law, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and peaceful settlement of disputes; and oppose unilateral attempts to change the status quo.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the Quad did not have a formal military aspect till now it is widely seen as a grouping formed to counter China’s rising influence in the Indo-Pacific.</p>

<p>Beijing’s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/india-vietnam-malaysia-philippines-and-taiwan-reject-chinas-new-controversial-map-release-statements-631063">continued claims</a> over the entire South China Sea drew criticism from Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Brunei.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not to mention China’s territorial disputes with Japan over the East China Sea and its recently <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-flags-abnormal-chinese-movements-rise-in-military-activity-around-island-638625">ramped-up military drills</a> around Taiwan as it continues to claim the self-ruled island as its territory and maintains it will seize it one day, by force, if necessary.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Deep concern’ over Ukraine war</strong></h2>

<p>The Quad ministers in their statement also expressed “deep concern” over the “raging” war in Ukraine and “mourn its terrible and tragic humanitarian consequences.” They also underscored the “need for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine” in line with international law.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Quad nation’s foreign ministers also said they are “deeply concerned about the global food security situation” and support the UN’s attempts to renew the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-russia-formally-backs-out-of-black-sea-grain-deal-what-happens-now-616637">Black Sea grain deal </a>after Russia backed out of it, in July.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While the statement does not directly mention Russia it said, “In the context of this war, we concur that the use, or threat of use, of nuclear weapons would be unacceptable.” In a supposed reference to Moscow and its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/data-lab-putins-nuclear-threats-what-happens-if-russia-uses-nukes-524398">repeated veiled threats</a> to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We underscore that the rules-based international order must respect the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ukraine-war-g20-leaders-call-for-upholding-territorial-integrity-sovereignty-634125">sovereignty and territorial integrity</a> of all states,” said the joint statement.&nbsp;<br />
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In a supposed veiled attack on China, the foreign minister of QUAD nations, on Friday (September 22), expressed concerns about the militarisation of disputed features, and the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels in the Indo-Pacific while reaffirming that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity underpin the development of the region.

In a supposed veiled attack on China, the foreign minister of QUAD nations, on Friday (September 22), expressed concerns about the militarisation of disputed features, and the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels in the Indo-Pacific while reaffirming that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity underpin the development of the region. The remarks were made in a joint statement after a meeting of foreign ministers of the Quad grouping – Australia, India, Japan and the United States – on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. About the Indo-Pacific The meeting included the foreign ministers of the four-nation bloc: Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. “We reaffirm our conviction that international law, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and the maintenance of peace and security in the maritime domain underpin the development and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific,” said the Quad nation’s foreign ministers, in the joint statement. They also emphasised the importance of adherence to international law and the UN charter to address challenges to the global maritime rules-based order which includes “respect to maritime claims, and in the South and East China Seas.” China’s aggressive behaviour in the South China Sea and Indo-Pacific was quite evident after it released the 2023 edition of its so-called “standard map” back in August, which included parts of India’s Arunachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Aksai Chin region, Taiwan and some regions of the disputed South China Sea, as part of China. In an apparent reference to China, the statement said, “We continue to express serious concern about the militarisation of disputed features, the dangerous use of coast guard and maritime militia vessels, and efforts to disrupt other countries’ offshore exploitation activities.” It added, “We strongly support the principles of freedom, the rule of law, sovereignty and territorial integrity, and peaceful settlement of disputes; and oppose unilateral attempts to change the status quo.” While the Quad did not have a formal military aspect till now it is widely seen as a grouping formed to counter China’s rising influence in the Indo-Pacific. Beijing’s continued claims over the entire South China Sea drew criticism from Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Brunei. Not to mention China’s territorial disputes with Japan over the East China Sea and its recently ramped-up military drills around Taiwan as it continues to claim the self-ruled island as its territory and maintains it will seize it one day, by force, if necessary. ‘Deep concern’ over Ukraine war The Quad ministers in their statement also expressed “deep concern” over the “raging” war in Ukraine and “mourn its terrible and tragic humanitarian consequences.” They also underscored the “need for a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace in Ukraine” in line with international law. The Quad nation’s foreign ministers also said they are “deeply concerned about the global food security situation” and support the UN’s attempts to renew the Black Sea grain deal after Russia backed out of it, in July. While the statement does not directly mention Russia it said, “In the context of this war, we concur that the use, or threat of use, of nuclear weapons would be unacceptable.” In a supposed reference to Moscow and its repeated veiled threats to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. “We underscore that the rules-based international order must respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states,” said the joint statement. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity underpin development of Indo-Pacific: Quad foreign ministers

<p>Australia on Wednesday abandoned its fight to eradicate the destructive Varroa mite, an invasive parasite responsible for the collapse of honeybee populations across the planet.</p>

<p>Desperate to keep Varroa out of the country, authorities have destroyed more than 14,000 infected beehives since the tiny red-brown pest was first detected north of Sydney in June 2022.</p>

<p>The government on Wednesday conceded its US$64 million eradication plan could not stop the mite from spreading, saying the country's beekeepers should now prepare to live with the incursion.</p>

<p>"The recent spike in new detections have made it clear that the Varroa mite infestation is more widespread and has also been present for longer than first thought," officials said in a statement.</p>

<p>Australia was one of the last major beekeeping countries to successfully keep Varroa at bay.</p>

<p>Smaller than a peppercorn, Varroa mites attach themselves to honeybees and slowly feast on their body tissue from the outside -- eventually spreading through hives and causing colony collapse.</p>

<p>They are the "most serious pest of honeybees worldwide", according to the Australian government.</p>

<p>Australian National University ecologist Saul Cunningham said the Varroa infestation would also damage agricultural industries reliant on pollination.</p>

<p>"Varroa mite will cause significant economic damage in agriculture, and so it is vital that we focus on adaptation to life with Varroa," Cunningham said.</p>

<p>Australia's native honeybees have proven resilient to Varroa mites but do not currently play a major role in honey production or agricultural pollination.</p>

<p>University of Sunshine Coast researcher Volker Herzig said the "final nail in the coffin" was a government decision that allowed beekeepers to transport their hives across state boundaries to help with pollination.</p>

<p>Every year, some 270,000 beehives are trucked into the state of Victoria to pollinate almond orchards -- an annual pilgrimage billed as the "largest movement of livestock" in Australia.</p>

<p>Herzig said Australia must "now find permanent solutions for managing our beehives", which "most other countries around the world" have been doing for years.</p>

<p>The government's decision was "quite a shock", said native bee researcher James Dorey of Flinders University.</p>

<p>"The impacts of this decision will be felt for decades to come in how beekeepers manage their hives and how farmers pollinate their crops," he said.</p>

<p>"In particular, farmers may not be able to rely on passive pollination from feral honeybees any longer."</p>

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Australia on Wednesday abandoned its fight to eradicate the destructive Varroa mite, an invasive parasite responsible for the collapse of honeybee populations across the planet.

Australia on Wednesday abandoned its fight to eradicate the destructive Varroa mite, an invasive parasite responsible for the collapse of honeybee populations across the planet. Desperate to keep Varroa out of the country, authorities have destroyed more than 14,000 infected beehives since the tiny red-brown pest was first detected north of Sydney in June 2022. The government on Wednesday conceded its US$64 million eradication plan could not stop the mite from spreading, saying the country's beekeepers should now prepare to live with the incursion. "The recent spike in new detections have made it clear that the Varroa mite infestation is more widespread and has also been present for longer than first thought," officials said in a statement. Australia was one of the last major beekeeping countries to successfully keep Varroa at bay. Smaller than a peppercorn, Varroa mites attach themselves to honeybees and slowly feast on their body tissue from the outside -- eventually spreading through hives and causing colony collapse. They are the "most serious pest of honeybees worldwide", according to the Australian government. Australian National University ecologist Saul Cunningham said the Varroa infestation would also damage agricultural industries reliant on pollination. "Varroa mite will cause significant economic damage in agriculture, and so it is vital that we focus on adaptation to life with Varroa," Cunningham said. Australia's native honeybees have proven resilient to Varroa mites but do not currently play a major role in honey production or agricultural pollination. University of Sunshine Coast researcher Volker Herzig said the "final nail in the coffin" was a government decision that allowed beekeepers to transport their hives across state boundaries to help with pollination. Every year, some 270,000 beehives are trucked into the state of Victoria to pollinate almond orchards -- an annual pilgrimage billed as the "largest movement of livestock" in Australia. Herzig said Australia must "now find permanent solutions for managing our beehives", which "most other countries around the world" have been doing for years. The government's decision was "quite a shock", said native bee researcher James Dorey of Flinders University. "The impacts of this decision will be felt for decades to come in how beekeepers manage their hives and how farmers pollinate their crops," he said. "In particular, farmers may not be able to rely on passive pollination from feral honeybees any longer." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia gives up fight to eradicate bee-killing parasite

The University of Melbourne is all set to host the Swift Impact 2024 in February. The event will help fans and students understand Taylor Swift's global impact.

Australia to host academic conference on pop icon, Taylor Swift

<p>The National Medical Commission (NMC) has achieved a milestone by securing the coveted World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) recognition status for a decade.</p>

<p>The announcement was made through an official press release by the Union Health Ministry. This recognition promises to usher in a new era of global opportunities and enhancements within India's medical education landscape, reported NDTV.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most importantly, the benefits of the WFME recognition is that it grants Indian medical graduates access to pursue postgraduate training and practice in countries that require WFME recognition, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/engaging-with-allies-pressing-on-canada-to-provide-evidence-indias-calibrated-response-on-nijjar-death-638249">&nbsp;Engaging with allies, pressing on Canada to provide evidence: India’s calibrated response on Nijjar death</a></p>

<h2><strong>Universal accreditation</strong></h2>

<p>Under this accreditation, all 706 existing medical colleges in India will attain WFME accreditation. Furthermore, any new medical colleges established within the next decade will automatically receive WFME accreditation.</p>

<p>This universal accreditation promises to elevate India's status as an attractive destination for international students, emphasising the nation's adherence to globally recognised standards.</p>

<p>Beyond facilitating global mobility for medical professionals, the NMC's newfound recognition aligns India's medical education with global best practices and benchmarks.</p>

<p>This alignment is expected to enhance the quality and standards of medical education within India, ensuring that graduates meet international expectations.</p>

<p>The WFME recognition is not limited to individual professionals or institutions; it extends to the entire Indian medical education ecosystem.</p>

<p>It will foster academic collaborations, promote exchanges, stimulate innovation in medical education, and cultivate a culture of quality assurance among medical educators and institutions.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;India-Canada row: Indian visa services in Canada suspended</strong></p>

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<p>A pivotal aspect of the WFME recognition is its relevance to international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking opportunities in the United States.</p>

<p>The new rule states that "starting in 2024, individuals applying for ECFMG Certification must be a student or graduate of a medical school that is appropriately accredited. More specifically, the school must be accredited by an accrediting agency that is officially recognised by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME)."</p>

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The National Medical Commission (NMC) has achieved a milestone by securing the coveted World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) recognition status for a decade.

The National Medical Commission (NMC) has achieved a milestone by securing the coveted World Federation for Medical Education (WFME) recognition status for a decade. The announcement was made through an official press release by the Union Health Ministry. This recognition promises to usher in a new era of global opportunities and enhancements within India's medical education landscape, reported NDTV. Most importantly, the benefits of the WFME recognition is that it grants Indian medical graduates access to pursue postgraduate training and practice in countries that require WFME recognition, including the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Also read | Engaging with allies, pressing on Canada to provide evidence: India’s calibrated response on Nijjar death Universal accreditation Under this accreditation, all 706 existing medical colleges in India will attain WFME accreditation. Furthermore, any new medical colleges established within the next decade will automatically receive WFME accreditation. This universal accreditation promises to elevate India's status as an attractive destination for international students, emphasising the nation's adherence to globally recognised standards. Beyond facilitating global mobility for medical professionals, the NMC's newfound recognition aligns India's medical education with global best practices and benchmarks. This alignment is expected to enhance the quality and standards of medical education within India, ensuring that graduates meet international expectations. The WFME recognition is not limited to individual professionals or institutions; it extends to the entire Indian medical education ecosystem. It will foster academic collaborations, promote exchanges, stimulate innovation in medical education, and cultivate a culture of quality assurance among medical educators and institutions. Also watch | India-Canada row: Indian visa services in Canada suspended A pivotal aspect of the WFME recognition is its relevance to international medical graduates (IMGs) seeking opportunities in the United States. The new rule states that "starting in 2024, individuals applying for ECFMG Certification must be a student or graduate of a medical school that is appropriately accredited. More specifically, the school must be accredited by an accrediting agency that is officially recognised by the World Federation for Medical Education (WFME)." WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Indian medical graduates can now practice in US, Canada and Australia. Here's how

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<p>Australia is currently battling an intense heatwave that has prompted the danger of a bushfire disaster. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Wednesday (September 20), danger warnings have been issued for the Greater Sydney region, which is home to more than five million people. In its latest update, the NSW Rural Fire Services said over 600 firefighters and emergency personnel were battling to control 68 fires burning across New South Wales (NSW) state as of Wednesday morning.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"With hot, dry and windy conditions forecast throughout the day, the Greater Sydney Region ... will experience extreme fire danger, while several other areas will experience high fire danger," the update said.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Total fire ban&nbsp;in large swathes of NSW</strong></h2>

<p>Total fire bans are in place in large swathes of New South Wales. Reuters reported that on Tuesday, residents of a popular holiday town in Tasmania were told to move to a safer location due to an uncontrolled bushfire fuelled by strong wind gusts.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, fire crews rushed to conduct hazard-reduction burns in Sydney's west to prepare for the looming bushfire season, which authorities said could be the worst since the 2019-2020 'Black Summer' fires.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During this disaster, around 15,000 separate fires burned across Australia, according to a report by the BBC. Greg Mullins, a former fire brigade chief, who repeatedly warned authorities about the Black Summer fires but got no positive response, told the BBC that governments have acted on calls to improve the equipment available to firefighters - the aerial firefighting fleet in particular.</p>

<p>However, the report said that fuel management is another story, and one increasingly out of human control. Despite the scale of Black Summer, there are still dense swathes of bushland - for example surrounding the Sydney basin - which were left largely untouched.</p>

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Australia is currently battling an intense heatwave that has prompted the danger of a bushfire disaster. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Wednesday (September 20), danger warnings have been issued for the Greater Sydney region, which is home to more than five million people.

Australia is currently battling an intense heatwave that has prompted the danger of a bushfire disaster. According to a report by the news agency Reuters on Wednesday (September 20), danger warnings have been issued for the Greater Sydney region, which is home to more than five million people. In its latest update, the NSW Rural Fire Services said over 600 firefighters and emergency personnel were battling to control 68 fires burning across New South Wales (NSW) state as of Wednesday morning. "With hot, dry and windy conditions forecast throughout the day, the Greater Sydney Region ... will experience extreme fire danger, while several other areas will experience high fire danger," the update said. Total fire ban in large swathes of NSW Total fire bans are in place in large swathes of New South Wales. Reuters reported that on Tuesday, residents of a popular holiday town in Tasmania were told to move to a safer location due to an uncontrolled bushfire fuelled by strong wind gusts. Meanwhile, fire crews rushed to conduct hazard-reduction burns in Sydney's west to prepare for the looming bushfire season, which authorities said could be the worst since the 2019-2020 'Black Summer' fires. During this disaster, around 15,000 separate fires burned across Australia, according to a report by the BBC. Greg Mullins, a former fire brigade chief, who repeatedly warned authorities about the Black Summer fires but got no positive response, told the BBC that governments have acted on calls to improve the equipment available to firefighters - the aerial firefighting fleet in particular. However, the report said that fuel management is another story, and one increasingly out of human control. Despite the scale of Black Summer, there are still dense swathes of bushland - for example surrounding the Sydney basin - which were left largely untouched. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia faces danger of bushfires as it battles spring heatwave

<p>Australia will spend $966 million to boost maritime surveillance of its northern approaches, purchasing more long-range drone aircraft and upgrading the Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. In a statement on Tuesday (September 19), Australia's Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said that the fleet of 14 Boeing Poseidon Maritime Patrol aircraft will have anti-submarine warfare, maritime strike, and intelligence collection capabilities upgraded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the Poseidon aircraft have conducted patrols in the South China Sea, and have also operated out of a Japanese airbase to enforce United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions on North Korea.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the MQ-4C Triton drone aircraft, which has been developed with the United States Navy, would be based in Australia's Northern Territory, closest to Asia, and operated by a newly formed squadron in South Australia state.</p>

<p>"The purchase of an additional Triton will enhance operations from Australia's northern bases, a priority under the Defence Strategic Review," Minister Conroy said on Tuesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A report by ABC News said that as per the latest budget of the US Department of Defense, the Triton programme will be terminated with production ceasing next year. The report said that the halted production will leave the US Navy with 22 aircraft, well short of its earlier target of 70.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, former defence official Marcus Hellyer described the government's decision to persevere with the Triton as strange. Hellyer predicts that the programme will undoubtedly cost more in both acquisition and sustainment than originally forecast.&nbsp;</p>

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Australia will spend $966 million to boost maritime surveillance of its northern approaches, purchasing more long-range drone aircraft and upgrading the Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft.

Australia will spend $966 million to boost maritime surveillance of its northern approaches, purchasing more long-range drone aircraft and upgrading the Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. In a statement on Tuesday (September 19), Australia's Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said that the fleet of 14 Boeing Poseidon Maritime Patrol aircraft will have anti-submarine warfare, maritime strike, and intelligence collection capabilities upgraded. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the Poseidon aircraft have conducted patrols in the South China Sea, and have also operated out of a Japanese airbase to enforce United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanctions on North Korea. Meanwhile, the MQ-4C Triton drone aircraft, which has been developed with the United States Navy, would be based in Australia's Northern Territory, closest to Asia, and operated by a newly formed squadron in South Australia state. "The purchase of an additional Triton will enhance operations from Australia's northern bases, a priority under the Defence Strategic Review," Minister Conroy said on Tuesday. A report by ABC News said that as per the latest budget of the US Department of Defense, the Triton programme will be terminated with production ceasing next year. The report said that the halted production will leave the US Navy with 22 aircraft, well short of its earlier target of 70. On Tuesday, former defence official Marcus Hellyer described the government's decision to persevere with the Triton as strange. Hellyer predicts that the programme will undoubtedly cost more in both acquisition and sustainment than originally forecast. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia to spend $966 million to boost maritime surveillance of its northern approaches

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms- Australia man fined $1,500 for taking pet snake surfing, 150 million-year-old rare dinosaur to be auctioned in Europe, India: Women's Reservation Bill cleared in cabinet, no formal announcement yet.

Australia man fined $1,500 for taking pet snake surfing

Ravichandran Ashwin and Washington Sundar have been included in India's squad for the Australia ODI series. Both of them are not a part of India's squad for the ODI World Cup but changes can be made to the squad till September 28.

India announce squad for Australia ODI series | World DNA

<p>Beware Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge: Australia's government has issued an ultimatum to the online dating industry, urging them to raise safety standards or face the prospect of legislative changes. This&nbsp;move follows eye-opening research by the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC), revealing that three in four users of dating apps or websites had encountered some form of sexual violence on these platforms between 2016 and 2021, media reports said.</p>

<p>The figures were released last year following an AIC survey&nbsp;of 9,987 app users.</p>

<p>Now, Australia's Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has set a deadline for major dating companies, including Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge, to create a voluntary code of conduct by June 30 next year that effectively addresses user safety concerns.</p>

<p>In the digital age, these apps have offered potential matches but there is also a darker side to these platforms that has garnered attention over the years.</p>

<p>The envisioned code is aimed&nbsp;to encompass a wide array of safety-enhancing measures.</p>

<p>These include strengthening cooperation with law enforcement agencies, extending support to at-risk users, refining safety policies and practices, and enhancing transparency regarding potential harms.</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-states-issue-alert-over-west-nile-virus-after-new-york-city-reports-death-637133">US: States issue alert over West Nile virus after New York City reports death</a></p>

<p>“Online dating is actually the most popular way for Australians to meet new people and to form new relationships,” Rowland said.</p>

<p>While encouraging these platforms to proactively implement the code, Rowland has issued a stern warning that if safety standards remain insufficient, the government will not hesitate to wield legislation to compel change.</p>

<p>“The government is concerned about rates of sexual harassment, abusive and threatening language, unsolicited sexual images and violence facilitated by these platforms,” she said adding,&nbsp;“What we want to do in this sector is not stifle innovation, but balance the harms."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Support pours in&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>The Australian Information Industry Association, representing the broader information and communications technology sector, praised the government's approach as "thoughtful."</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/a-close-encounter-with-the-alien-bodies-in-mexico-637112">A close encounter with the 'alien bodies' in Mexico</a></p>

<p>“That’s the way the government should regulate technology,” the association’s chief executive, Simon Bush, said adding, “Point out where there’s an issue, get the industry together and get the industry to look to see if they can resolve these issues first before pulling the regulatory trigger.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch | UK: Russel Brand accused of sexual assault, comedian denies criminal allegations</strong></p>

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<p>Dating app giants such as Bumble, Tinder, and Hinge have not yet commented in response to these developments.</p>

<p>Kath Albury, an online dating researcher at Melbourne's Swinburne University of Technology, reportedly&nbsp;told Australian Broadcasting Corp, “One of the things that dating app users are concerned about is the sense that complaints go into the void or there’s a response that feels automated or not personal responsive in a time when they’re feeling quite unsafe or distressed."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Beware Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge: Australia's government has issued an ultimatum to the online dating industry, urging them to raise safety standards or face the prospect of legislative changes.

Beware Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge: Australia's government has issued an ultimatum to the online dating industry, urging them to raise safety standards or face the prospect of legislative changes. This move follows eye-opening research by the Australian Institute of Criminology (AIC), revealing that three in four users of dating apps or websites had encountered some form of sexual violence on these platforms between 2016 and 2021, media reports said. The figures were released last year following an AIC survey of 9,987 app users. Now, Australia's Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has set a deadline for major dating companies, including Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge, to create a voluntary code of conduct by June 30 next year that effectively addresses user safety concerns. In the digital age, these apps have offered potential matches but there is also a darker side to these platforms that has garnered attention over the years. The envisioned code is aimed to encompass a wide array of safety-enhancing measures. These include strengthening cooperation with law enforcement agencies, extending support to at-risk users, refining safety policies and practices, and enhancing transparency regarding potential harms. Also Read | US: States issue alert over West Nile virus after New York City reports death “Online dating is actually the most popular way for Australians to meet new people and to form new relationships,” Rowland said. While encouraging these platforms to proactively implement the code, Rowland has issued a stern warning that if safety standards remain insufficient, the government will not hesitate to wield legislation to compel change. “The government is concerned about rates of sexual harassment, abusive and threatening language, unsolicited sexual images and violence facilitated by these platforms,” she said adding, “What we want to do in this sector is not stifle innovation, but balance the harms." Support pours in The Australian Information Industry Association, representing the broader information and communications technology sector, praised the government's approach as "thoughtful." Also Read | A close encounter with the 'alien bodies' in Mexico “That’s the way the government should regulate technology,” the association’s chief executive, Simon Bush, said adding, “Point out where there’s an issue, get the industry together and get the industry to look to see if they can resolve these issues first before pulling the regulatory trigger.” Watch | UK: Russel Brand accused of sexual assault, comedian denies criminal allegations × Dating app giants such as Bumble, Tinder, and Hinge have not yet commented in response to these developments. Kath Albury, an online dating researcher at Melbourne's Swinburne University of Technology, reportedly told Australian Broadcasting Corp, “One of the things that dating app users are concerned about is the sense that complaints go into the void or there’s a response that feels automated or not personal responsive in a time when they’re feeling quite unsafe or distressed." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

After alarming research, Australia asks dating apps to enhance safety for users

Australia's Queensland suspended its Human Rights Act for the second time this year and worryingly the step has been reportedly taken as the juvenile centres are at their full capacity.

Australia: Queensland suspends Human Rights Act second time this year as centres at full capacity

<p>A spring heat wave is gripping large parts of Australia's southeast, including Sydney, and&nbsp;as per predictions, is only expected to intensify. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, as per Reuters, has predicted that&nbsp;on Monday&nbsp;temperatures may rise by up to 16 degrees Celsius (60 Fahrenheit) above the September average.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Heat wave in spring</strong></h2>

<p>Reuters reports that this heat wave has been building in the Australia's outback interior and is likely to last until Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In Sydney's western areas, temperatures are expected to reach 36 degrees Celsius (96.8 F) on Monday. By Thursday, it is expected to&nbsp;drop to around 22 degrees Celsius (71 F), according to weather bureau forecasts.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-march-against-fossil-fuels-in-new-york-as-ocasio-cortez-appreciates-powerful-message-637055">Thousands march against fossil fuels in New York; AOC calls for mass action</a></strong></p>

<p>The heat wave is affecting the states of South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales and the weather bureau foresees that several early spring temperature records will be broken in the coming days.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian weather agency has described the heat as "very uncommon for September."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>When can Aussies expect relief?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the weather agency, relief from the heat is not expected until Wednesday.</p>

<p>In a Facebook post on Sunday, it said: "A reprieve from the heat is not expected until Wednesday onwards, as a stronger cold front crosses the southeastern states."</p>

<p>On Sunday, the scorching heat reportedly took a toll on participants in the Sydney marathon, where 26 people were taken to the hospital and approximately 40 treated for heat exhaustion by emergency services.</p>

<h2><strong>Threat of wildfires</strong></h2>

<p>The heat wave, as per the news agency report, has also heightened the risk of wildfires, with several regions assigned 'high' fire danger ratings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Even as about 50 grass or bushfires burn across New South Wales, authorities have urged residents to prepare for further bushfires. The current bushfires, as per the report, have been brought under control.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/summer-2023-was-hottest-on-record-since-1880-confirms-nasa-636886">Summer 2023 was hottest on record since 1880, confirms NASA</a></strong></p>

<p>Australia is bracing for a hotter Southern Hemisphere spring and summer due to the strengthening possibility of an El Niño event, which, as per forecasts, may develop between September and November.&nbsp;</p>

<p>El Niño can lead to extreme weather events, including wildfires, cyclones, and droughts in Australia, which prompted the warnings of increased bushfire risks this summer.</p>

<p>To prepare for the upcoming bushfire season Hazard reduction, Sydney authorities last week conducted precautionary hazard reduction burns that left the city shrouded in a thick smoke haze.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A spring heat wave is gripping large parts of Australia's southeast, including Sydney, and as per predictions, is only expected to intensify. Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, as per Reuters, has predicted that on Monday temperatures may rise by up to 16 degrees Celsius (60 Fahrenheit) above the September average.

A spring heat wave is gripping large parts of Australia's southeast, including Sydney, and as per predictions, is only expected to intensify. Australia's Bureau of Meteorology, as per Reuters, has predicted that on Monday temperatures may rise by up to 16 degrees Celsius (60 Fahrenheit) above the September average. Heat wave in spring Reuters reports that this heat wave has been building in the Australia's outback interior and is likely to last until Wednesday. In Sydney's western areas, temperatures are expected to reach 36 degrees Celsius (96.8 F) on Monday. By Thursday, it is expected to drop to around 22 degrees Celsius (71 F), according to weather bureau forecasts. Also read | Thousands march against fossil fuels in New York; AOC calls for mass action The heat wave is affecting the states of South Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales and the weather bureau foresees that several early spring temperature records will be broken in the coming days. The Australian weather agency has described the heat as "very uncommon for September." When can Aussies expect relief? As per the weather agency, relief from the heat is not expected until Wednesday. In a Facebook post on Sunday, it said: "A reprieve from the heat is not expected until Wednesday onwards, as a stronger cold front crosses the southeastern states." On Sunday, the scorching heat reportedly took a toll on participants in the Sydney marathon, where 26 people were taken to the hospital and approximately 40 treated for heat exhaustion by emergency services. Threat of wildfires The heat wave, as per the news agency report, has also heightened the risk of wildfires, with several regions assigned 'high' fire danger ratings. Even as about 50 grass or bushfires burn across New South Wales, authorities have urged residents to prepare for further bushfires. The current bushfires, as per the report, have been brought under control. Also read | Summer 2023 was hottest on record since 1880, confirms NASA Australia is bracing for a hotter Southern Hemisphere spring and summer due to the strengthening possibility of an El Niño event, which, as per forecasts, may develop between September and November. El Niño can lead to extreme weather events, including wildfires, cyclones, and droughts in Australia, which prompted the warnings of increased bushfire risks this summer. To prepare for the upcoming bushfire season Hazard reduction, Sydney authorities last week conducted precautionary hazard reduction burns that left the city shrouded in a thick smoke haze. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia faces 'uncommon' heatwave, temperatures predicted to rise 16 degrees above normal

<p>A surfer from the Australian city of Gold Coast, whose video of surfing with his pet python went viral, has been fined nearly US$1,500 by the country’s wildlife authorities, as per Australian media reports on Monday (September 18).&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What happened?</strong></h2>

<p>Higor Fiuza took his carpet python ‘Shiva’ surfing at Gold Coast’s Rainbow Bay and&nbsp;it was not long after the video of them surfing went viral that he became a local celebrity.</p>

<p>In an interview, Fiuza told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) that he had taken his three-year-old Morelia bredli carpet python at least 10 times.</p>

<p>“She is such an amazing snake,” said the surfer earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/goat-this-surfer-likes-to-go-to-the-ocean-with-his-pet-372616/#birthday-party-372613">G.O.A.T: This surfer likes to go to the ocean with his pet</a></strong></p>

<p>He also told ABC how ‘Shiva’ loved to be in the water and one day he decided to take her surfing and “she loved it,” adding that her grip is so strong that he was not scared of losing her even if they fell.</p>

<p>“She is big now and she holds my neck really tight,” said Fiuza.&nbsp;</p>

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<h2><strong>Why was he fined?</strong></h2>

<p>It was not long after the video went viral and Fiuza’s interview that Queensland’s Department of Environment and Science began investigating the surfing duo.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The surfer was fined A$2,322 (US$1,495) after officials said he took the reptile out in public without permission.</p>

<p>In a statement, senior wildlife officer John McDonald said while Fiuza had permission to keep native animals, taking them out in public can cause them “unnecessary stress” and make them “behave in an unpredictable way”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-blake-johnston-australian-man-who-went-on-record-breaking-surfing-for-more-than-30-hours-572956">Who is Blake Johnston? Australian man who went on record-breaking surfing for more than 30 HOURS</a></strong></p>

<p>“The python would have found the water to be extremely cold, and the only snakes that should be in the ocean are sea snakes,” the statement added.</p>

<h2><strong>Not so strange</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, ‘Shiva’ is not the first animal to find fame for surfing at Rainbow Bay, where people surfing with their pets is more common than one might think.</p>

<p>‘Duck’, the surfing duck, is regularly seen surfing with Australian surfing champion Steph Gilmore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pork Chops, a British bulldog garnered a large following on Instagram for surfing with owner surf instructor Sam Rollinson before the dog passed away in 2021, as per media reports.<br />
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A surfer from the Australian city of Gold Coast, whose video of surfing with his pet python went viral, has been fined nearly US$1,500 by the country’s wildlife authorities, as per Australian media reports on Monday (September 18).

A surfer from the Australian city of Gold Coast, whose video of surfing with his pet python went viral, has been fined nearly US$1,500 by the country’s wildlife authorities, as per Australian media reports on Monday (September 18). What happened? Higor Fiuza took his carpet python ‘Shiva’ surfing at Gold Coast’s Rainbow Bay and it was not long after the video of them surfing went viral that he became a local celebrity. In an interview, Fiuza told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) that he had taken his three-year-old Morelia bredli carpet python at least 10 times. “She is such an amazing snake,” said the surfer earlier this month. ALSO READ | G.O.A.T: This surfer likes to go to the ocean with his pet He also told ABC how ‘Shiva’ loved to be in the water and one day he decided to take her surfing and “she loved it,” adding that her grip is so strong that he was not scared of losing her even if they fell. “She is big now and she holds my neck really tight,” said Fiuza. View this post on Instagram A post shared by World Surfers (@worldsurfers) × Why was he fined? It was not long after the video went viral and Fiuza’s interview that Queensland’s Department of Environment and Science began investigating the surfing duo. The surfer was fined A$2,322 (US$1,495) after officials said he took the reptile out in public without permission. In a statement, senior wildlife officer John McDonald said while Fiuza had permission to keep native animals, taking them out in public can cause them “unnecessary stress” and make them “behave in an unpredictable way”. ALSO READ | Who is Blake Johnston? Australian man who went on record-breaking surfing for more than 30 HOURS “The python would have found the water to be extremely cold, and the only snakes that should be in the ocean are sea snakes,” the statement added. Not so strange Notably, ‘Shiva’ is not the first animal to find fame for surfing at Rainbow Bay, where people surfing with their pets is more common than one might think. ‘Duck’, the surfing duck, is regularly seen surfing with Australian surfing champion Steph Gilmore. Pork Chops, a British bulldog garnered a large following on Instagram for surfing with owner surf instructor Sam Rollinson before the dog passed away in 2021, as per media reports. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

WATCH | Australian man fined nearly $1,500 for taking pet snake surfing

<p>A 15-year-old boy in Australia's Sydney is in a coma after he was allegedly dragged for two kilometres through a street before falling from a car. According to a report by the Australian Associated Press early Saturday (September 16), the boy was taken to Blacktown Hospital, before being transferred to Westmead Children’s Hospital. He is reported to be in a serious but stable condition.</p>

<p>Authorities confirmed that the teenager had been placed in an induced coma. The New South Wales Police said that on Friday evening, the teenager and a 19-year-old man began arguing on a street in Blacktown.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report said that as the man drove away, the teenager was dragged by the vehicle along two roads before he fell from it outside a petrol station. Following inquiries, police officers stopped a car near to where the 15-year-old was found.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 19-year-old was arrested and charged with dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm, negligent driving occasioning grievous bodily harm, and supplying a prohibited drug.</p>

<p>The report also said that the man was refused bail and would appear at the Parramatta local court later in the day.&nbsp;</p>

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A 15-year-old boy in Australia's Sydney is in a coma after he was allegedly dragged for two kilometres through a street before falling from a car. According to a report by the Australian Associated Press early Saturday (September 16), the boy was taken to Blacktown Hospital, before being transferred to Westmead Children’s Hospital.

A 15-year-old boy in Australia's Sydney is in a coma after he was allegedly dragged for two kilometres through a street before falling from a car. According to a report by the Australian Associated Press early Saturday (September 16), the boy was taken to Blacktown Hospital, before being transferred to Westmead Children’s Hospital. He is reported to be in a serious but stable condition. Authorities confirmed that the teenager had been placed in an induced coma. The New South Wales Police said that on Friday evening, the teenager and a 19-year-old man began arguing on a street in Blacktown. The report said that as the man drove away, the teenager was dragged by the vehicle along two roads before he fell from it outside a petrol station. Following inquiries, police officers stopped a car near to where the 15-year-old was found. The 19-year-old was arrested and charged with dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm, negligent driving occasioning grievous bodily harm, and supplying a prohibited drug. The report also said that the man was refused bail and would appear at the Parramatta local court later in the day. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia: Sydney teenager in coma after allegedly being dragged 2 km by car

<p>Researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) might have found the world’s largest asteroid impact crater in Australia. The researchers believe that this site in the town of Deniliquin is evidence of the oldest asteroid impact buried in the world. They also say that this crater could have helped trigger a major glaciation event that killed 85 per cent of the world’s species.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The research is published in the journal Tectnophysics. The newly-found impact crater is named as Deniliquin structure.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/australia-collaborates-with-tech-giants-to-block-ai-generated-child-porn-in-search-engines-634761">Australia collaborates with tech giants to block AI-generated child porn in search engines</a></p>

<p>&nbsp;UNSW adjunct professor and asteroid impact researcher, Andrew Glikson believed the crater is 323 miles in diameter which is nearly double the size of the current record-holding crarter, the Vredefort impact structure in South Africa.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Deniliquin structure, the world’s largest asteroid impact crater</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Glikson claims the impact that caused the crater may have occurred during the Late Ordovician mass extinction event. “Specifically, I think it may have triggered what’s called the Hirnantian glaciation stage, which lasted between 445.2 and 433.8 million years ago,” he wrote in a statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This huge glaciation and mass extinction event eliminated about 85 per cent of the planet’s species.”</p>

<h2><strong>Why does it matter?</strong></h2>

<p>Huge asteroid impacts can have a devastating effect on life on Earth. These impacts not only send reverberating waves of devastation out, but the debris fields and subsequent atmospheric noise can also dim the sun’s intensity, triggering a cooling event.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Glikson concedes that the crater maybe even older, but says that whenever the asteroid hit, it did so on the eastern part of the Gondwana continent, which existed many years ago before it split off into several continents, including Australia.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/can-astronauts-live-on-the-moon-scientists-reveal-how-its-possible-634363">Can astronauts live on the Moon? Scientists reveal how it's possible</a></p>

<p>Finding of a crater of this humungous size buried in plain view is what makes this discovery interesting. As per scientists, due to erosion and constant sediment movement, it is tricky to explain the existence of such a huge crater because even Earth’s shifting tectonic plates can alter the crater.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Glikson says that when an asteroid strikes, it creates a crater with an uplifted core as a drop of water splashes upward when a pebble hits a pool.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/our-prehistoric-ancestors-turned-stones-into-spheres-for-a-reason-says-study-634046">Our prehistoric ancestors turned stones into spheres for a reason, says study</a></p>

<p>“This central uplifted dome is a key characteristic of large impact structures,” he writes. “However, it can erode over thousands to millions of years, making the structure difficult to identify.”</p>

<p>By understanding the geophysical makeup of the materials thrown out of a crater during impact, scientists can study layers of “impact ejecta” in various terrains around the world. Gondwana and Australia were and are home to 38 confirmed and 43 potential impact structures.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) might have found the world’s largest asteroid impact crater in Australia. The researchers believe that this site in the town of Deniliquin is evidence of the oldest asteroid impact buried in the world.

Researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) might have found the world’s largest asteroid impact crater in Australia. The researchers believe that this site in the town of Deniliquin is evidence of the oldest asteroid impact buried in the world. They also say that this crater could have helped trigger a major glaciation event that killed 85 per cent of the world’s species. The research is published in the journal Tectnophysics. The newly-found impact crater is named as Deniliquin structure. Also Read | Australia collaborates with tech giants to block AI-generated child porn in search engines UNSW adjunct professor and asteroid impact researcher, Andrew Glikson believed the crater is 323 miles in diameter which is nearly double the size of the current record-holding crarter, the Vredefort impact structure in South Africa. Deniliquin structure, the world’s largest asteroid impact crater Glikson claims the impact that caused the crater may have occurred during the Late Ordovician mass extinction event. “Specifically, I think it may have triggered what’s called the Hirnantian glaciation stage, which lasted between 445.2 and 433.8 million years ago,” he wrote in a statement. “This huge glaciation and mass extinction event eliminated about 85 per cent of the planet’s species.” Why does it matter? Huge asteroid impacts can have a devastating effect on life on Earth. These impacts not only send reverberating waves of devastation out, but the debris fields and subsequent atmospheric noise can also dim the sun’s intensity, triggering a cooling event. Glikson concedes that the crater maybe even older, but says that whenever the asteroid hit, it did so on the eastern part of the Gondwana continent, which existed many years ago before it split off into several continents, including Australia. Also Read | Can astronauts live on the Moon? Scientists reveal how it's possible Finding of a crater of this humungous size buried in plain view is what makes this discovery interesting. As per scientists, due to erosion and constant sediment movement, it is tricky to explain the existence of such a huge crater because even Earth’s shifting tectonic plates can alter the crater. Glikson says that when an asteroid strikes, it creates a crater with an uplifted core as a drop of water splashes upward when a pebble hits a pool. Also Read | Our prehistoric ancestors turned stones into spheres for a reason, says study “This central uplifted dome is a key characteristic of large impact structures,” he writes. “However, it can erode over thousands to millions of years, making the structure difficult to identify.” By understanding the geophysical makeup of the materials thrown out of a crater during impact, scientists can study layers of “impact ejecta” in various terrains around the world. Gondwana and Australia were and are home to 38 confirmed and 43 potential impact structures. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

World's largest asteroid impact crater has reportedly been found in Australia

<p>Australia is taking steps to prevent the sharing of child sexual abuse material generated by artificial intelligence (AI) in search engine results.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The country's internet regulator, e-Safety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, on Friday, announced that the nation will now require search engines to ensure that such content doesn't make it to search results. To do this, Australia has developed a new code in collaboration with industry giants like Google and Bing.</p>

<h2><strong>Australia's new code against AI-generated child porn</strong></h2>

<p>Australia's new code, as per Reuters, will help ensure that search engines prevent the sharing of AI-generated child sexual abuse material. It will also require safeguards to prevent AI functions of search engines from producing synthetic versions (deepfakes) of such content in search results.</p>

<p>The rapid growth of generative AI technology has caught many "off guard," said Inman Grant.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/watch-worlds-first-and-only-cat-sent-to-space-felicette-634653">WATCH | World's first and only cat sent to space - 'Felicette'</a></strong></p>

<p>"The use of generative AI has grown so quickly that I think it's caught the whole world off guard to a certain degree."</p>

<p>This code underscores how the regulatory and legal landscape surrounding internet platforms is evolving to address challenges posed by AI-generated lifelike content.</p>

<p>Citing Grant, Reuters reported&nbsp;that an earlier code drafted by Google and Bing did not cover AI-generated content. This prompted her to request a revised version that specifically addresses this issue.</p>

<p>"When the biggest players in the industry announced they would integrate generative AI into their search functions, we had a draft code that was clearly no longer fit for purpose. We asked the industry to have another go," said Inman Grant.</p>

<h2><strong>Best practices</strong></h2>

<p>The Digital Industry Group Inc, an Australian advocacy organisation that has Google as a member, expressed satisfaction with the regulator's approval of the new code. They highlighted that the code reflects recent developments in generative AI and establishes best practices to enhance community safeguards.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/our-prehistoric-ancestors-turned-stones-into-spheres-for-a-reason-says-study-634046">Our prehistoric ancestors turned stones into spheres for a reason, says study</a></strong></p>

<p>"We worked hard to reflect recent developments in relation to generative AI, codifying best practices for industry and providing further community safeguards," said the spokesperson.</p>

<p>Australia's e-Safety Commissioner registered safety codes for various internet services, including social media platforms and smartphone applications earlier this year. These are set to take effect in late 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The regulator is reportedly also working on developing safety codes for internet storage and private messaging services. However, as per the news agency, these efforts have faced resistance from privacy advocates globally.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Australia is taking steps to prevent the sharing of child sexual abuse material generated by artificial intelligence (AI) in search engine results. The country's internet regulator, e-Safety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, on Friday, announced that the nation will now require search engines to ensure that such content doesn't make it to search results.

Australia is taking steps to prevent the sharing of child sexual abuse material generated by artificial intelligence (AI) in search engine results. The country's internet regulator, e-Safety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant, on Friday, announced that the nation will now require search engines to ensure that such content doesn't make it to search results. To do this, Australia has developed a new code in collaboration with industry giants like Google and Bing. Australia's new code against AI-generated child porn Australia's new code, as per Reuters, will help ensure that search engines prevent the sharing of AI-generated child sexual abuse material. It will also require safeguards to prevent AI functions of search engines from producing synthetic versions (deepfakes) of such content in search results. The rapid growth of generative AI technology has caught many "off guard," said Inman Grant. Also read | WATCH | World's first and only cat sent to space - 'Felicette' "The use of generative AI has grown so quickly that I think it's caught the whole world off guard to a certain degree." This code underscores how the regulatory and legal landscape surrounding internet platforms is evolving to address challenges posed by AI-generated lifelike content. Citing Grant, Reuters reported that an earlier code drafted by Google and Bing did not cover AI-generated content. This prompted her to request a revised version that specifically addresses this issue. "When the biggest players in the industry announced they would integrate generative AI into their search functions, we had a draft code that was clearly no longer fit for purpose. We asked the industry to have another go," said Inman Grant. Best practices The Digital Industry Group Inc, an Australian advocacy organisation that has Google as a member, expressed satisfaction with the regulator's approval of the new code. They highlighted that the code reflects recent developments in generative AI and establishes best practices to enhance community safeguards. Also read | Our prehistoric ancestors turned stones into spheres for a reason, says study "We worked hard to reflect recent developments in relation to generative AI, codifying best practices for industry and providing further community safeguards," said the spokesperson. Australia's e-Safety Commissioner registered safety codes for various internet services, including social media platforms and smartphone applications earlier this year. These are set to take effect in late 2023. The regulator is reportedly also working on developing safety codes for internet storage and private messaging services. However, as per the news agency, these efforts have faced resistance from privacy advocates globally. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia collaborates with tech giants to block AI-generated child porn in search engines

<p>Australian cricket team is back on the top of the ICC ranking as the number one ODI team in the world. The Kangaroos were displaced by Pakistan briefly after the Men in Green beat Afghanistan 3-0 in a recent ODI series. Australia, however, have reclaimed the position after beating South Africa in the second ODI on September 9 of the ongoing series.</p>

<p>Australia currently are at 121 points, one clear of Pakistan, who are number two with 120 points. India are at the third place with 114 points and New Zealand occupy the fourth place with 106 points while England are at fifth place with 99 points.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-skipper-shakib-al-hasan-wants-odi-world-cup-bound-players-to-be-rested-for-new-zealand-series-634417">Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan wants ODI World Cup bound players to be rested for New Zealand series</a></p>

<p>The rankings, however, are of little importance now as the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup is about to begin in less than a month. The marquee tournament, which is being held in India, will start on October 5 with the final scheduled on November 19.</p>

<h2><strong>Warner roars back in form ahead of World Cup</strong></h2>

<p>Australia opening batsman David Warner recorded his 20th ODI century during the second ODI against South Africa as his team took a 2-0 lead in the five-ODI series. Thanks to Warner's belligerent 106 and Marnus Labuschagne's 124, Australia &nbsp;posted a mammoth 392/8 in 50 overs and won the game by 123 runs.</p>

<p>Warner, who has been struggling for form for some time now, was sceptical of making it to Australia's ODI World Cup squad. The selectors, however, showed faith in him and the southpaw repaid it in the best way he can - scoring runs.</p>

<p>With the century, Warner also broke former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar's record of most hundreds as an opener across formats. With his latest ton, Warner has 46 as an opener - 20 in ODIs, 25 in Tests and one in T20Is. Sachin, on the other hand, has scored all of 45 centuries as opener in ODIs only. In total, however, he has 49 ODI centuries to his name - a world record that still stands.</p>

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Australian cricket team is back on the top of the ICC ranking as the number one ODI team in the world. The Kangaroos were displaced by Pakistan briefly after the Men in Green beat Afghanistan 3-0 in a recent ODI series.

Australian cricket team is back on the top of the ICC ranking as the number one ODI team in the world. The Kangaroos were displaced by Pakistan briefly after the Men in Green beat Afghanistan 3-0 in a recent ODI series. Australia, however, have reclaimed the position after beating South Africa in the second ODI on September 9 of the ongoing series. Australia currently are at 121 points, one clear of Pakistan, who are number two with 120 points. India are at the third place with 114 points and New Zealand occupy the fourth place with 106 points while England are at fifth place with 99 points. Also Read: Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan wants ODI World Cup bound players to be rested for New Zealand series The rankings, however, are of little importance now as the 2023 ICC ODI World Cup is about to begin in less than a month. The marquee tournament, which is being held in India, will start on October 5 with the final scheduled on November 19. Warner roars back in form ahead of World Cup Australia opening batsman David Warner recorded his 20th ODI century during the second ODI against South Africa as his team took a 2-0 lead in the five-ODI series. Thanks to Warner's belligerent 106 and Marnus Labuschagne's 124, Australia posted a mammoth 392/8 in 50 overs and won the game by 123 runs. Warner, who has been struggling for form for some time now, was sceptical of making it to Australia's ODI World Cup squad. The selectors, however, showed faith in him and the southpaw repaid it in the best way he can - scoring runs. With the century, Warner also broke former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar's record of most hundreds as an opener across formats. With his latest ton, Warner has 46 as an opener - 20 in ODIs, 25 in Tests and one in T20Is. Sachin, on the other hand, has scored all of 45 centuries as opener in ODIs only. In total, however, he has 49 ODI centuries to his name - a world record that still stands. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia back on top in ICC ODI rankings ahead of ODI World Cup

Here, we bring you the news that is trending across WION's social media platforms - UK PM Rishi Sunak arrives in New Delhi, Australia & Philippines upgrade bilateral ties, Anti-drone systems guard India's Capital as leaders arrive.

UK PM Rishi Sunak arrives in New Delhi | Australia & Philippines upgrade bilateral ties

<p>Concussion substitute Marnus Labuschagne played a match-winning innings for&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;to trump an unbeaten century by South African captain Temba Bavuma in the first one-day international at the Mangaung Oval on Thursday.</p>

<p>Bavuma carried his bat for an unbeaten 114 to enable South Africa to score 222 all out.</p>

<p>It seemed more than enough as&nbsp;Australia, batting with ultra-aggressive intent, crashed to 113 for seven in the 17th over.</p>

<p>But Labuschagne, batting at number eight after replacing Cameron Green, restored calmness to the Australian innings, making 80 not out.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He shared an unbeaten eighth-wicket stand of 112 with Ashton Agar, who made 48 not out.</p>

<p>Green was ruled out after being struck on the left earpiece of his helmet by the second ball he faced from Kagiso Rabada before he had scored.</p>

<p>"Some weird things happen around concussions," said man of the match Labuschagne at the after-match presentation.&nbsp;</p>

<p>His Test career was ignited when he replaced Steve Smith during a Test at Lord's in 2019.</p>

<p>Labuschagne was not selected in&nbsp;Australia's World Cup squad and only joined the squad in South Africa after Steve Smith withdrew with a wrist injury.</p>

<p>He said he had taken only a short break after this year's Ashes series in England before getting back to work.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I knew I needed to improve my one-day game," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bavuma batted throughout the South African innings while his teammates crumbled against accurate bowling on a slow, dry pitch with uneven bounce.</p>

<p>Bavuma was dropped on two when Agar put down a diving chance at backward point off Sean Abbott.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He survived again on 88, with last man Lungi Ngidi at the wicket, when he top-edged a slog against leg-spinner Adam Zampa and wicketkeeper Alex Carey spilled a straightforward chance.</p>

<p>Two overs later, Bavuma hit Zampa for six and four to raise his fifth one-day international century.</p>

<p>He finished with 14 fours and a six off 142 balls despite struggling with cramp towards the end of the innings.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He watched the Australian innings from the team balcony.</p>

<p>"We weren't at our best with the ball. Marnus took the opportunities he got early on and stabilised the innings,"&nbsp; said Bavuma.</p>

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Concussion substitute Marnus Labuschagne played a match-winning innings for Australia to trump an unbeaten century by South African captain Temba Bavuma in the first one-day international at the Mangaung Oval on Thursday.

Concussion substitute Marnus Labuschagne played a match-winning innings for Australia to trump an unbeaten century by South African captain Temba Bavuma in the first one-day international at the Mangaung Oval on Thursday. Bavuma carried his bat for an unbeaten 114 to enable South Africa to score 222 all out. It seemed more than enough as Australia, batting with ultra-aggressive intent, crashed to 113 for seven in the 17th over. But Labuschagne, batting at number eight after replacing Cameron Green, restored calmness to the Australian innings, making 80 not out. He shared an unbeaten eighth-wicket stand of 112 with Ashton Agar, who made 48 not out. Green was ruled out after being struck on the left earpiece of his helmet by the second ball he faced from Kagiso Rabada before he had scored. "Some weird things happen around concussions," said man of the match Labuschagne at the after-match presentation. His Test career was ignited when he replaced Steve Smith during a Test at Lord's in 2019. Labuschagne was not selected in Australia's World Cup squad and only joined the squad in South Africa after Steve Smith withdrew with a wrist injury. He said he had taken only a short break after this year's Ashes series in England before getting back to work. "I knew I needed to improve my one-day game," he said. Bavuma batted throughout the South African innings while his teammates crumbled against accurate bowling on a slow, dry pitch with uneven bounce. Bavuma was dropped on two when Agar put down a diving chance at backward point off Sean Abbott. He survived again on 88, with last man Lungi Ngidi at the wicket, when he top-edged a slog against leg-spinner Adam Zampa and wicketkeeper Alex Carey spilled a straightforward chance. Two overs later, Bavuma hit Zampa for six and four to raise his fifth one-day international century. He finished with 14 fours and a six off 142 balls despite struggling with cramp towards the end of the innings. He watched the Australian innings from the team balcony. "We weren't at our best with the ball. Marnus took the opportunities he got early on and stabilised the innings," said Bavuma. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Concussion sub Labuschagne guides Australia to 3-wicket win in 1st ODI vs South Africa

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidA6lK01GZQ1FV" /><meta charset="utf-8" />The Australian government said on Thursday (September 7) that a strip search of female passengers at Qatar's Hamad International Airport played a part in its decision this year to stop Qatar Airways from selling more flights to Australia. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the Australian government denied it was acting due to pressure from Qantas Airways.</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference in Canberra, Australian Transport Minister Catherine King said that the invasive body searches of female passengers, which included five Australian women, at the airport in 2020 were the context for the decision to deny the airline more flights to Australia in July this year.</p>

<h2><strong>Minister mentions another incident as reason for blocking flights</strong></h2>

<p>King said, "It wasn't the only factor. It was a factor." She referred to another incident, where women were taken off a Qatar Airways plane and forced to undergo medical examination after the discovery of an abandoned baby at the airport. The Qatar government later apologised.</p>

<p>The minister also said it was nonsense to suggest that adding more Qatar Airways flights would have put downward pressure on international fares.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Women's experiences were...: Australian minister</strong></h2>

<p>Transport Minister King further told reporters that the women's experiences were pretty frankly, not anything the government would expect anyone, and certainly not Australians travelling on an international airline, to experience.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to an Al-Jazeera report on Thursday, the five Australian women were suing Qatar Airways and the state-run Qatar Civil Aviation Authority over the 2020 incident. In June, their lawyers sent King a letter which described Qatar Airways as “not fit to carry passengers around the globe let alone to major Australian airports.”</p>

<p>In July, King formally rejected the airline's bid to add flights to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and said the proposal was not in Australia’s national interests.</p>

<p>Al-Jazeera reported that the Australian government has been under fire for blocking Qatar Airways’ proposal. Critics, meanwhile, have accused the government of Qantas’s profits at the expense of consumers.<br />
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The Australian government said on Thursday (September 7) that a strip search of female passengers at Qatar's Hamad International Airport played a part in its decision this year to stop Qatar Airways from selling more flights to Australia.

The Australian government said on Thursday (September 7) that a strip search of female passengers at Qatar's Hamad International Airport played a part in its decision this year to stop Qatar Airways from selling more flights to Australia. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, the Australian government denied it was acting due to pressure from Qantas Airways. Addressing a press conference in Canberra, Australian Transport Minister Catherine King said that the invasive body searches of female passengers, which included five Australian women, at the airport in 2020 were the context for the decision to deny the airline more flights to Australia in July this year. Minister mentions another incident as reason for blocking flights King said, "It wasn't the only factor. It was a factor." She referred to another incident, where women were taken off a Qatar Airways plane and forced to undergo medical examination after the discovery of an abandoned baby at the airport. The Qatar government later apologised. The minister also said it was nonsense to suggest that adding more Qatar Airways flights would have put downward pressure on international fares. Women's experiences were...: Australian minister Transport Minister King further told reporters that the women's experiences were pretty frankly, not anything the government would expect anyone, and certainly not Australians travelling on an international airline, to experience. According to an Al-Jazeera report on Thursday, the five Australian women were suing Qatar Airways and the state-run Qatar Civil Aviation Authority over the 2020 incident. In June, their lawyers sent King a letter which described Qatar Airways as “not fit to carry passengers around the globe let alone to major Australian airports.” In July, King formally rejected the airline's bid to add flights to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and said the proposal was not in Australia’s national interests. Al-Jazeera reported that the Australian government has been under fire for blocking Qatar Airways’ proposal. Critics, meanwhile, have accused the government of Qantas’s profits at the expense of consumers. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Strip-search of women at Qatar airport factor in denial of more Qatar Airways flights to Australia

A recent survey indicates a remarkable transformation unfolding in the retirement aspirations of non-resident Indians. Traditionally, the dream for many NRIs had been to settle in economically developed countries like the US, Canada, Australia, Singapore, or the UK. However, India's rapid progress towards achieving developed nation status, coupled with its resilience during global challenges, is reshaping the retirement landscape.

Impact of India's growing economy: India, the hotspot for retirement?

Join us on an epic journey across the globe as we explore some of the most unique and captivating experiences the world has to offer. In this episode of Wings we take you on a whirlwind tour through Kerala, Australia, Scotland, and vintage car events worldwide, all in our exciting travel show!

Onam Festival, Fire & Ice Plunge in Australia, Loch Ness & Vintage Cars

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<p>Australians will vote in a referendum on 14 October 2023 to constitutionally recognise its Indigenous people by establishing a representative body responsible for providing non-binding advice to the parliament.</p>

<p>Indigenous people of Australia consist of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They are 3.2 per cent of Australia's total population. More than 800,000 Indigenous people have inhabited the land for 60,000 years. They comprise various groups who have their histories, cultures and languages.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the British colonisation began in 1788, Australia's Indigenous population started plunging. The British colonisers took their land, exposed them to new diseases, pushed them to work in slave-like conditions, and even killed many. Since then, the marginalisation of Australia's First Nations people has continued. But there have been some efforts to address this issue more recently.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russia-uses-car-tyres-to-cover-military-aircraft-to-deter-ukrainian-drone-attacks-report-632902" target="_blank">Russia uses car tyres to cover military aircraft to deter Ukrainian drone attacks: Report&nbsp;&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>More than 60 years after the nations' establishment in 1901, Australia included the Indigenous people in census figures in 1967, following a referendum to amend the constitution.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2017, around 250 First Nations representatives gathered at the holy monolith landmark of Uluru in central Australia. They created the 'Uluru Statement from the Heart', calling for a First Nations Voice enshrined in the constitution. However, at that time, the conservative government rejected the call.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Anthony Albanese became prime minister in 2022, he promised to hold a referendum to include an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice in the parliament, giving Australians a say. According to Reuters, Albanese has staked much of his political capital on the referendum by making it one of the prime issues.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The supportive forces comprise the left-wing Greens party, independent legislators, welfare groups, and national and ethno-religious groups.</p>

<p>However, some people oppose it on both flanks of the political ridge. Lidia Thorpe, an independent Indigenous senator, is one of them. She left the Green party over concerns about the Voice proposal, as she wants a treaty between the government and Indigenous people first, parallel to what New Zealand and Canada have.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While New Zealand's Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 promises to protect Maori culture, Canada recognises the rights of its Indigenous people under the Constitution Act 1982.</p>

<p>Those against the proposal are the conservative Liberal Party and the rural-based National Party. They have appealed to Australians to vote "No" in the referendum.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A campaign called "Recognise a Better Way" suggests creating an all-party parliamentary committee to address the concerns of native titleholders instead of having a referendum on establishing a Voice to Parliament.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Australians will vote in a referendum on 14 October 2023 to constitutionally recognise its Indigenous people by establishing a representative body responsible for providing non-binding advice to the parliament.

Australians will vote in a referendum on 14 October 2023 to constitutionally recognise its Indigenous people by establishing a representative body responsible for providing non-binding advice to the parliament. Indigenous people of Australia consist of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. They are 3.2 per cent of Australia's total population. More than 800,000 Indigenous people have inhabited the land for 60,000 years. They comprise various groups who have their histories, cultures and languages. After the British colonisation began in 1788, Australia's Indigenous population started plunging. The British colonisers took their land, exposed them to new diseases, pushed them to work in slave-like conditions, and even killed many. Since then, the marginalisation of Australia's First Nations people has continued. But there have been some efforts to address this issue more recently. ALSO READ | Russia uses car tyres to cover military aircraft to deter Ukrainian drone attacks: Report More than 60 years after the nations' establishment in 1901, Australia included the Indigenous people in census figures in 1967, following a referendum to amend the constitution. In 2017, around 250 First Nations representatives gathered at the holy monolith landmark of Uluru in central Australia. They created the 'Uluru Statement from the Heart', calling for a First Nations Voice enshrined in the constitution. However, at that time, the conservative government rejected the call. When Anthony Albanese became prime minister in 2022, he promised to hold a referendum to include an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice in the parliament, giving Australians a say. According to Reuters, Albanese has staked much of his political capital on the referendum by making it one of the prime issues. The supportive forces comprise the left-wing Greens party, independent legislators, welfare groups, and national and ethno-religious groups. However, some people oppose it on both flanks of the political ridge. Lidia Thorpe, an independent Indigenous senator, is one of them. She left the Green party over concerns about the Voice proposal, as she wants a treaty between the government and Indigenous people first, parallel to what New Zealand and Canada have. While New Zealand's Treaty of Waitangi in 1840 promises to protect Maori culture, Canada recognises the rights of its Indigenous people under the Constitution Act 1982. Those against the proposal are the conservative Liberal Party and the rural-based National Party. They have appealed to Australians to vote "No" in the referendum. A campaign called "Recognise a Better Way" suggests creating an all-party parliamentary committee to address the concerns of native titleholders instead of having a referendum on establishing a Voice to Parliament. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

What is Australia's Indigenous Voice to Parliament referendum? Here's all you need to know about the proposal

<p>In a daring maritime rescue operation, three individuals were saved from a dire situation in the Coral Sea, just off the coast of Cairns, Australia. Their catamaran had suffered severe damage during a series of shark attacks.</p>

<p>The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) orchestrated the early morning rescue, which took place approximately 835 kilometres&nbsp;away from Cairns. The distress signal received from the vessel prompted this swift response.</p>

<h2><strong>Rescue coordination&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>At 1:30 am, AMSA sprang into action upon detecting an emergency beacon, registered under the Russian flag. The beacon emanated from the nine-metre&nbsp;inflatable catamaran named "Tion," which had embarked on its journey from Vanuatu with Cairns as its intended destination. The statement issued by AMSA confirmed that multiple shark assaults left both of the catamaran's hulls damaged, as reported by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/australian-surfer-rides-wave-with-large-shark-on-paddleboard-video-628670">Australian surfer rides wave with large shark on paddleboard | Video</a></p>

<h2><strong>Multi-pronged rescue efforts&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Facing this dire predicament, AMSA called upon the assistance of the Panama-flagged vehicle carrier, the Dugong Ace. Additionally, they deployed the challenger rescue aircraft based in Cairns to the location of the distressed vessel.</p>

<p>The operation concluded on a triumphant note as the Dugong Ace successfully saved the three individuals onboard, consisting of two Russian nationals and one French citizen. They are expected to reach Brisbane safely by Thursday&nbsp;morning.</p>

<p>AMSA took this opportunity to emphasise the importance of carrying a distress beacon when navigating the open waters. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity of being prepared for emergencies at sea.</p>

<p>Australia stands out as a global hub for dangerous wildlife, particularly in the realm of marine predators, with nearly 200 shark species making its waters their home.</p>

<p>February this year witnessed a tragic incident in which a 59-year-old Australian tourist fell victim to a shark attack while swimming near a pontoon in New Caledonia, a French Pacific territory. The attack occurred 150 metres&nbsp;offshore, emphasising the proximity of these predators to recreational beachgoers.</p>

<p>Experts have pinpointed great white sharks as the primary culprits of attacks on humans, closely followed by tiger sharks, underlining the heightened risk swimmers may face in Australian waters.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Indonesian conservationists save wild sharks using 'trackers'</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indonesian-conservationists-save-wild-sharks-using-trackers-630823/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Aside from bull sharks, tiger sharks, and great white sharks, even in regions far beyond Australia, interactions between sharks and humans are a cause for concern. Recently, Kevin Christopherson, a wildlife photographer, captured startling footage at San Onofre State Beach in the US, revealing just how closely sharks can approach unsuspecting beachgoers.</p>

<p>Adding to the apprehension, a recent study conducted by California State University unveiled that sharks frequently swim closer to humans than previously assumed. Over two years, researchers conducted more than 1,500 drone flights in southern Santa Barbara County and central San Diego County. The findings indicated that sharks were observed in proximity to humans on 97% of the surveyed days, often within 50 yards of wave breaks. Surfers and stand-up paddleboarders, in particular, were found to be in closer proximity to these marine predators. This study underscores the importance of vigilance and safety precautions when sharing waters with these remarkable yet potentially perilous creatures.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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In a daring maritime rescue operation, three individuals were saved from a dire situation in the Coral Sea, just off the coast of Cairns, Australia. Their catamaran had suffered severe damage during a series of shark attacks.

In a daring maritime rescue operation, three individuals were saved from a dire situation in the Coral Sea, just off the coast of Cairns, Australia. Their catamaran had suffered severe damage during a series of shark attacks. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) orchestrated the early morning rescue, which took place approximately 835 kilometres away from Cairns. The distress signal received from the vessel prompted this swift response. Rescue coordination At 1:30 am, AMSA sprang into action upon detecting an emergency beacon, registered under the Russian flag. The beacon emanated from the nine-metre inflatable catamaran named "Tion," which had embarked on its journey from Vanuatu with Cairns as its intended destination. The statement issued by AMSA confirmed that multiple shark assaults left both of the catamaran's hulls damaged, as reported by Reuters. Also read | Australian surfer rides wave with large shark on paddleboard | Video Multi-pronged rescue efforts Facing this dire predicament, AMSA called upon the assistance of the Panama-flagged vehicle carrier, the Dugong Ace. Additionally, they deployed the challenger rescue aircraft based in Cairns to the location of the distressed vessel. The operation concluded on a triumphant note as the Dugong Ace successfully saved the three individuals onboard, consisting of two Russian nationals and one French citizen. They are expected to reach Brisbane safely by Thursday morning. AMSA took this opportunity to emphasise the importance of carrying a distress beacon when navigating the open waters. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of the necessity of being prepared for emergencies at sea. Australia stands out as a global hub for dangerous wildlife, particularly in the realm of marine predators, with nearly 200 shark species making its waters their home. February this year witnessed a tragic incident in which a 59-year-old Australian tourist fell victim to a shark attack while swimming near a pontoon in New Caledonia, a French Pacific territory. The attack occurred 150 metres offshore, emphasising the proximity of these predators to recreational beachgoers. Experts have pinpointed great white sharks as the primary culprits of attacks on humans, closely followed by tiger sharks, underlining the heightened risk swimmers may face in Australian waters. Also watch | Indonesian conservationists save wild sharks using 'trackers' Aside from bull sharks, tiger sharks, and great white sharks, even in regions far beyond Australia, interactions between sharks and humans are a cause for concern. Recently, Kevin Christopherson, a wildlife photographer, captured startling footage at San Onofre State Beach in the US, revealing just how closely sharks can approach unsuspecting beachgoers. Adding to the apprehension, a recent study conducted by California State University unveiled that sharks frequently swim closer to humans than previously assumed. Over two years, researchers conducted more than 1,500 drone flights in southern Santa Barbara County and central San Diego County. The findings indicated that sharks were observed in proximity to humans on 97% of the surveyed days, often within 50 yards of wave breaks. Surfers and stand-up paddleboarders, in particular, were found to be in closer proximity to these marine predators. This study underscores the importance of vigilance and safety precautions when sharing waters with these remarkable yet potentially perilous creatures. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Dramatic rescue at sea: Catamaran survives shark attacks in coral sea

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<p>Humphrey Herington, a nursery owner in Australia, racked his brain for weeks to find the thief who was eating his seedlings. At first, he thought it was goats who escaped their shelter. However, he discovered later that it was not a fast animal but a lazy koala.&nbsp;</p>

<p>One day, Herington walked into work and encountered a cheeky possum, dubbed Claude, dizzy and too sated to move, surrounded by stripped eucalypt plants.</p>

<p>"He looked like he was full. He looked very pleased with himself," he told the BBC. "We came out to work one morning, and he was sitting on a pole. There were lots of plants missing that morning. I guess, the koala must have had a big feed and was too tired to return to his tree."</p>

<p>According to the staff at the Eastern Forest Nursery near Lismore in New South Wales, the plants Claude was snacking on cost them $3,800 (A$6,000). They are now building a koala-proof fence around the seedling tables to prevent the marsupial from eating more plants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2022, Australia listed koalas as endangered species along most of the East Coast as their numbers declined drastically due to land clearing, bushfires, drought, diseases and other reasons. The irony is that the nursery was growing the plants Claude ate to boost koala habitats in the region.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/man-admits-to-starting-fire-at-japanese-anime-studio-that-killed-36-in-2019-632804" target="_blank"><strong>&nbsp;</strong>Man admits to starting fire at Japanese anime studio that killed 36 in 2019</a></p>

<p>The team first noticed the chewed plants a few months ago. "There weren't really any signs, there was no tracks or anything to indicate what it could have been," Herington said. "It was a mystery," he added.</p>

<p>Despite setting a possum trap and examining animal droppings for clues, they caught the culprit when he became too greedy.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When Herington learned Claude, the koala, was the thief, he gently wrapped him in a towel and placed him on a tree about 300 metres from the nursery. However, the arboreal marsupial returned and continued his night-time visits to the nursery.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Herington isn't mad at Claude. He's amused, as koalas aren't known for their agility or ingenuity. "I just couldn't believe it was a koala. I was shocked but was also a little bit impressed," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Herington has been at the nursery for 20 years, but it was the first time something like this happened. "Is it that there is a shortage of food?" he wondered.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A 2021 NSW food inquiry found koalas would be extinct by 2050 unless they took urgent action. According to some conservation groups, as few as 50,000 koalas remain in the wild.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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Humphrey Herington, a nursery owner in Australia, racked his brain for weeks to find the thief who was eating his seedlings. At first, he thought it was goats who escaped their shelter.

Humphrey Herington, a nursery owner in Australia, racked his brain for weeks to find the thief who was eating his seedlings. At first, he thought it was goats who escaped their shelter. However, he discovered later that it was not a fast animal but a lazy koala. One day, Herington walked into work and encountered a cheeky possum, dubbed Claude, dizzy and too sated to move, surrounded by stripped eucalypt plants. "He looked like he was full. He looked very pleased with himself," he told the BBC. "We came out to work one morning, and he was sitting on a pole. There were lots of plants missing that morning. I guess, the koala must have had a big feed and was too tired to return to his tree." According to the staff at the Eastern Forest Nursery near Lismore in New South Wales, the plants Claude was snacking on cost them $3,800 (A$6,000). They are now building a koala-proof fence around the seedling tables to prevent the marsupial from eating more plants. In 2022, Australia listed koalas as endangered species along most of the East Coast as their numbers declined drastically due to land clearing, bushfires, drought, diseases and other reasons. The irony is that the nursery was growing the plants Claude ate to boost koala habitats in the region. ALSO READ | Man admits to starting fire at Japanese anime studio that killed 36 in 2019 The team first noticed the chewed plants a few months ago. "There weren't really any signs, there was no tracks or anything to indicate what it could have been," Herington said. "It was a mystery," he added. Despite setting a possum trap and examining animal droppings for clues, they caught the culprit when he became too greedy. When Herington learned Claude, the koala, was the thief, he gently wrapped him in a towel and placed him on a tree about 300 metres from the nursery. However, the arboreal marsupial returned and continued his night-time visits to the nursery. Herington isn't mad at Claude. He's amused, as koalas aren't known for their agility or ingenuity. "I just couldn't believe it was a koala. I was shocked but was also a little bit impressed," he said. Herington has been at the nursery for 20 years, but it was the first time something like this happened. "Is it that there is a shortage of food?" he wondered. A 2021 NSW food inquiry found koalas would be extinct by 2050 unless they took urgent action. According to some conservation groups, as few as 50,000 koalas remain in the wild. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'Claude the koala': Australian nursery owner reveals prolific plant thief

<p>Australia rescued a sick researcher from the remote Casey outpost in Antarctica&nbsp;on Monday (September 4), according to a report by CNN, citing Australian officials. This comes more than a week after the Australian Antarctic Program (AAP) said they had deployed an icebreaker to rescue a researcher with a “developing medical condition”.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Researcher rescued</strong></h2>

<p>In an update on Monday, the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) said the icebreaking ship RSV Nuyina had sailed more than 3,000 kilometres from Tasmania’s Hobart to attend to the unnamed patient at the Casey Research Station in the east Antarctic.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, officials in Australia said that they had launched an urgent rescue operation for an expeditioner who needs specialist medical assessment and care in Tasmania.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Getting this expeditioner back to Tasmania for the specialist medical care required is our priority,” said Robb Clifton, AAD’s acting general manager of operations and logistics, in a statement on Monday (September 4).&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/as-ice-in-antarctica-reaches-new-lows-scientists-warn-no-quick-fix-623581">As ice in Antarctica melts to new lows, scientists warn 'no quick fix'</a></strong></p>

<p>“The first phase of the evacuation was performed safely and successfully and the ship is now on the return voyage to Hobart,” said Clifton, in the statement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He added, “The expeditioner will be looked after in the Nuyina’s specially equipped and designed medical facility by our polar medicine doctors and Royal Hobart Hospital medical staff.”</p>

<h2><strong>Long journey</strong></h2>

<p>Notably, Casey Research Station is located on the northern part of Bailey Peninsula on the Budd Coast which is some 3,880 kilometres south of the Australian city of Perth. However, an icebreaker undertook the long journey after an air rescue was ruled out due to the harsh conditions of the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Nuyina, which sailed for days in the open seas of the Southern Ocean, had to break through sea ice to get close enough to the site and deployed two helicopters which airlifted the patient back to the ship, said the AAD.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/pristine-antarctica-is-hiding-a-dirty-secret-says-study-631413">Pristine Antarctica is hiding a 'dirty' secret, says study</a></strong></p>

<p>The vessel will return from one of Australia’s three permanent stations on the Antarctic coast &nbsp;– which is home to only some 20 people during winter when conditions are at their worst &nbsp;– to Tasmania, depending on weather conditions, said the AAD.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A spokesman for the AAP had previously told BBC, that the “wellbeing of our people is our highest priority” and that the “expeditioner’s family is being kept fully informed of the situation.” He added, “All other personnel on stations are accounted for and safe.”&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Australia rescued a sick researcher from the remote Casey outpost in Antarctica on Monday (September 4), according to a report by CNN, citing Australian officials.

Australia rescued a sick researcher from the remote Casey outpost in Antarctica on Monday (September 4), according to a report by CNN, citing Australian officials. This comes more than a week after the Australian Antarctic Program (AAP) said they had deployed an icebreaker to rescue a researcher with a “developing medical condition”. Researcher rescued In an update on Monday, the Australian Antarctic Division (AAD) said the icebreaking ship RSV Nuyina had sailed more than 3,000 kilometres from Tasmania’s Hobart to attend to the unnamed patient at the Casey Research Station in the east Antarctic. Last week, officials in Australia said that they had launched an urgent rescue operation for an expeditioner who needs specialist medical assessment and care in Tasmania. “Getting this expeditioner back to Tasmania for the specialist medical care required is our priority,” said Robb Clifton, AAD’s acting general manager of operations and logistics, in a statement on Monday (September 4). ALSO READ | As ice in Antarctica melts to new lows, scientists warn 'no quick fix' “The first phase of the evacuation was performed safely and successfully and the ship is now on the return voyage to Hobart,” said Clifton, in the statement. He added, “The expeditioner will be looked after in the Nuyina’s specially equipped and designed medical facility by our polar medicine doctors and Royal Hobart Hospital medical staff.” Long journey Notably, Casey Research Station is located on the northern part of Bailey Peninsula on the Budd Coast which is some 3,880 kilometres south of the Australian city of Perth. However, an icebreaker undertook the long journey after an air rescue was ruled out due to the harsh conditions of the region. The Nuyina, which sailed for days in the open seas of the Southern Ocean, had to break through sea ice to get close enough to the site and deployed two helicopters which airlifted the patient back to the ship, said the AAD. ALSO READ | Pristine Antarctica is hiding a 'dirty' secret, says study The vessel will return from one of Australia’s three permanent stations on the Antarctic coast – which is home to only some 20 people during winter when conditions are at their worst – to Tasmania, depending on weather conditions, said the AAD. A spokesman for the AAP had previously told BBC, that the “wellbeing of our people is our highest priority” and that the “expeditioner’s family is being kept fully informed of the situation.” He added, “All other personnel on stations are accounted for and safe.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Australia successfully rescues sick expedition member from remote Antarctic outpost

<p>Australia batsman Glenn Maxwell is not 'under pressure' to play in the upcoming ODI series in India ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup, starting from October 5. The explosive batsman, who was part of Australia's T20I squad in the recently-concluded South Africa series, did not play any of the matches after experiencing soreness in his ankle. The pain was in the same leg in which Maxwell had suffered a gruesome injury last November.</p>

<p>"I still want to play some part of that India series," Maxwell said during the Big Bash League's (BBL) overseas draft on Sunday, September 4. "But I'm not feeling any pressure on it. The selectors and the staff have been brilliant with me as well. They don't want to put too much pressure on me to sort of set that date because they know they've got a bit of extra time before the World Cup. So instead of rushing it and probably putting myself a week or two behind, being able to give myself extra time and make sure we get through the whole tournament."</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/maiden-asia-cup-tons-from-mehidy-hasan-and-shanto-help-bangladesh-beat-afghanistan-by-89-runs-632026">Maiden Asia Cup tons from Mehidy Hasan and Shanto help Bangladesh beat Afghanistan by 89 runs</a></p>

<p>Maxwell, meanwhile, is expected to make it to Australia's initial 15-member World Cup squad for which the deadline is September 5. The date to announce the final squad is September 28 and Australia are scheduled to play a five-match series against South Africa before travelling to India for three-ODI series and the World Cup.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Maxwell has, however, taken a cortisone injection to deal with the pain but said he couldn't have predicted how sore his ankle going to be once he got to South Africa.</p>

<p>"I don't think I could have predicted how sore I was going to be once I got to South Africa," he said. "But it was one of those things. Even when I went to train that day, I still felt fine. There was nothing wrong. Something just got impinged. I think one of the tendons around my ankle was a little bit inflamed, there's a bit of swelling, so it kept on catching which meant it just gave me a bit of pain. Hopefully, the cortisone takes care of that and I can get back up and running to where I was just before I went to South Africa," he added.</p>

<p>Australia, nonetheless, won the T20I series 3-0 and are preparing for the ODI series now but Maxwell won't be part of it as he visits home for the birth of his first child.</p>

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Australia batsman Glenn Maxwell is not 'under pressure' to play in the upcoming ODI series in India ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup, starting from October 5. The explosive batsman, who was part of Australia's T20I squad in the recently-concluded South Africa series, did not play any of the matches after experiencing soreness in his ankle.

Australia batsman Glenn Maxwell is not 'under pressure' to play in the upcoming ODI series in India ahead of the ICC ODI World Cup, starting from October 5. The explosive batsman, who was part of Australia's T20I squad in the recently-concluded South Africa series, did not play any of the matches after experiencing soreness in his ankle. The pain was in the same leg in which Maxwell had suffered a gruesome injury last November. "I still want to play some part of that India series," Maxwell said during the Big Bash League's (BBL) overseas draft on Sunday, September 4. "But I'm not feeling any pressure on it. The selectors and the staff have been brilliant with me as well. They don't want to put too much pressure on me to sort of set that date because they know they've got a bit of extra time before the World Cup. So instead of rushing it and probably putting myself a week or two behind, being able to give myself extra time and make sure we get through the whole tournament." Also Read: Maiden Asia Cup tons from Mehidy Hasan and Shanto help Bangladesh beat Afghanistan by 89 runs Maxwell, meanwhile, is expected to make it to Australia's initial 15-member World Cup squad for which the deadline is September 5. The date to announce the final squad is September 28 and Australia are scheduled to play a five-match series against South Africa before travelling to India for three-ODI series and the World Cup. Maxwell has, however, taken a cortisone injection to deal with the pain but said he couldn't have predicted how sore his ankle going to be once he got to South Africa. "I don't think I could have predicted how sore I was going to be once I got to South Africa," he said. "But it was one of those things. Even when I went to train that day, I still felt fine. There was nothing wrong. Something just got impinged. I think one of the tendons around my ankle was a little bit inflamed, there's a bit of swelling, so it kept on catching which meant it just gave me a bit of pain. Hopefully, the cortisone takes care of that and I can get back up and running to where I was just before I went to South Africa," he added. Australia, nonetheless, won the T20I series 3-0 and are preparing for the ODI series now but Maxwell won't be part of it as he visits home for the birth of his first child. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Glenn Maxwell hopes to play 'some part' of upcoming ODI series vs India as he manages ankle pain before ODI WC

The relationship between Australia and China will take another positive step forward next week when high-level government discussions are revived after a three-year break. Foreign minister Penny Wong announced on Saturday that the Australia-China high-level dialogue would be held in Beijing on Thursday, providing a forum for high-level representatives from business, government, academia, and other sectors to discuss topics ranging from trade and investment to regional and international security.

Australia and china reunite for diplomatic talks

<p>In a move that might be seen as an offence in China, the Pacific island nation of Solomon Islands has invited Australia to extend the stay of its police forces in the country until elections take place in June next year. Now, Australia has also agreed to extend its police mission, along with sending more forces to the country to boost security regime.</p>

<p>The Australian police force came to the Solomon Islands in December 2021 to quell anti-government protests, along with those from Fiji and New Zealand. They were due to leave the country by the year-end after providing security for Pacific Games scheduled for November.</p>

<p>According to a statement on Solomon Islands Broadcasting’s Facebook page posted late on Friday (Sept 1), more than 5,000 athletes from two dozen nations are expected to arrive in the country for the November games.</p>

<h2><strong>Solomon Islands requested extension in August</strong></h2>

<p>According to a statement released by the Solomon government, it requested the Australian authorities for an extension on August 4, so that its police force can stay till June next year.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;WION-VOA Co-Production: Pacific Island nations slam Japan</strong></p>

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<p>“Prime Minister Sogavare said the security support needed for both events is huge and Australia’s affirmative response will definitely fill security gaps leading up to, during and after the two important events,” the statement said.</p>

<h2><strong>The China angle&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>It must be noted that the Solomon Islands and China upgraded their security ties in July earlier this year, triggering concerns in the US and Australia that their security partnership with the Pacific country could get sabotaged by Beijing.</p>

<p>In fact, when&nbsp;Australian Defence Minister, Richard Marles, visited the country in June,&nbsp;PM Manasseh Sogavare called for a review of a 2017 security treaty between the two nations.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sends-police-experts-to-vanuatu-after-pro-west-pm-loses-power-629511"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;China sends ‘police experts’ to Vanuatu after pro-West PM loses power</strong></a></p>

<p>China has also supported Solomon's bid to host the Pacific Games and even financed infrastructure for the sports event after the country switched its diplomatic ties to China from Taiwan in 2019.</p>

<h2><strong>Australia's reaction</strong></h2>

<p>Australia has now of course agreed to extend its police mission in the country, calling itself Solomon's "primary security partner."</p>

<p>A&nbsp;spokesperson for Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said in a statement on Sunday (Sept. 3), "At the request of the Solomon Islands Government, Australia has extended its contribution to the Solomons International Assistance Force (SIAF) until June 2024 to assist with security for the national general elections."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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In a move that might be seen as an offence in China, the Pacific island nation of Solomon Islands has invited Australia to extend the stay of its police forces in the country until elections take place in June next year.

In a move that might be seen as an offence in China, the Pacific island nation of Solomon Islands has invited Australia to extend the stay of its police forces in the country until elections take place in June next year. Now, Australia has also agreed to extend its police mission, along with sending more forces to the country to boost security regime. The Australian police force came to the Solomon Islands in December 2021 to quell anti-government protests, along with those from Fiji and New Zealand. They were due to leave the country by the year-end after providing security for Pacific Games scheduled for November. According to a statement on Solomon Islands Broadcasting’s Facebook page posted late on Friday (Sept 1), more than 5,000 athletes from two dozen nations are expected to arrive in the country for the November games. Solomon Islands requested extension in August According to a statement released by the Solomon government, it requested the Australian authorities for an extension on August 4, so that its police force can stay till June next year. Watch: WION-VOA Co-Production: Pacific Island nations slam Japan × “Prime Minister Sogavare said the security support needed for both events is huge and Australia’s affirmative response will definitely fill security gaps leading up to, during and after the two important events,” the statement said. The China angle It must be noted that the Solomon Islands and China upgraded their security ties in July earlier this year, triggering concerns in the US and Australia that their security partnership with the Pacific country could get sabotaged by Beijing. In fact, when Australian Defence Minister, Richard Marles, visited the country in June, PM Manasseh Sogavare called for a review of a 2017 security treaty between the two nations. Also read: China sends ‘police experts’ to Vanuatu after pro-West PM loses power China has also supported Solomon's bid to host the Pacific Games and even financed infrastructure for the sports event after the country switched its diplomatic ties to China from Taiwan in 2019. Australia's reaction Australia has now of course agreed to extend its police mission in the country, calling itself Solomon's "primary security partner." A spokesperson for Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said in a statement on Sunday (Sept. 3), "At the request of the Solomon Islands Government, Australia has extended its contribution to the Solomons International Assistance Force (SIAF) until June 2024 to assist with security for the national general elections." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Australia to boost police mission in Solomon Islands ahead of elections

An NRI woman from Bengaluru has died by suicide over a custody battle with Australian authorities. Such repeated cases raise many questions: Are rich G-20 nations targeting Indian newcomers? Is this cultural prejudice? Molly Gambhir tells you more

Gravitas: NRI woman dies by suicide due to custody battle over children

<p>The Ukrainian capital Kyiv was hit by missiles early on Wednesday (August 30). There have been reports of several explosions in the city. The air defences were activated. In other news, Australian PM Anthony Albanese has declared the date of historic Aboriginal referendum. If passed, the minority will be recognised by Australian constitution for the first time. Read this and more in our morning news brief</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drone-strike-hits-russias-pskov-airport-4-transport-planes-damaged-630410"><strong>Kyiv hit by missile attack, 2 killed from falling debris</strong></a><br />
<br />
Meanwhile, a drone attack at an airport located in Peskov in northwestern Russia has damaged four transport planes.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="Kyiv" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5b6cde9e-733d-4030-8bdd-ee7ef8691d4d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Kyiv.JPG" /></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-declares-date-of-historic-indigenous-rights-referendum-630394"><strong>Australia declares date of historic Indigenous rights referendum</strong></a><br />
<br />
If the referendum is passed, Indigenous Australians, the ancestors of whom have lived on the continent for at least 60,000 years will be recognised in Australia's constitution for the first time.</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/apple-to-unveil-new-iphone-smartwatch-on-september-12-report-630411"><strong>Apple to unveil new iPhone, smartwatch on September 12: Report</strong></a></p>

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<p>Analysts are anticipating a new line of iPhones and smartwatches to be launched at tech giant Apple's fall event on September 12, media reports said on Tuesday.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Did Joe Biden help his son in his overseas business dealings</strong><strong>?</strong></p>

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The Ukrainian capital Kyiv was hit by missiles early on Wednesday (August 30). There have been reports of several explosions in the city. The air defences were activated.

The Ukrainian capital Kyiv was hit by missiles early on Wednesday (August 30). There have been reports of several explosions in the city. The air defences were activated. In other news, Australian PM Anthony Albanese has declared the date of historic Aboriginal referendum. If passed, the minority will be recognised by Australian constitution for the first time. Read this and more in our morning news brief Kyiv hit by missile attack, 2 killed from falling debris Meanwhile, a drone attack at an airport located in Peskov in northwestern Russia has damaged four transport planes. Australia declares date of historic Indigenous rights referendum If the referendum is passed, Indigenous Australians, the ancestors of whom have lived on the continent for at least 60,000 years will be recognised in Australia's constitution for the first time. Apple to unveil new iPhone, smartwatch on September 12: Report Analysts are anticipating a new line of iPhones and smartwatches to be launched at tech giant Apple's fall event on September 12, media reports said on Tuesday. Watch | Did Joe Biden help his son in his overseas business dealings? ×

Morning news brief: Kyiv attacked, Australia's Aboriginal referendum, more news

<p>Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Wednesday (August 30) that the country will hold the historic indigenous rights referendum on October 14. The referendum is set to lead to a defining moment in Australia's relationship with its Aboriginal minority.</p>

<p>"On that day, every Australian will have a once-in-a-generation chance to bring our country together, and you change it for the better," Albanese said as he locked in the date for the binding vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I ask all Australians to vote yes."&nbsp;</p>

<p>If the referendum is passed, Indigenous Australians, the ancestors of whom have lived on the continent for at least 60,000 years will be recognised in the country's constitution for the first time.</p>

<p>In addition to this, the Aboriginal population would also get constitutionally enshrined right to be consulted on laws that impact their communities, the so-called "Voice to Parliament". &nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the 'yes' campaign is trailing in the polls. If the referendum fails, it is feared that the development would damage inter-race relations and also tarnish Australia's reputation in the world in addition to squandering of once-in-a-generation opportunity to reduce pervasive inequality.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Australia doctors make shocking discovery, find living worm inside woman's brain</strong></p>

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<p>Australia has no treaty with its indigenous population. The demographic makes up about 3.2 per cent of nearly 26 million population of the country. On most social-economic measures, meAboriginalhe aboriginal population track below national averages.</p>

<p>Aboriginal people find no mention in the constitution in spite of their presence on the continent that vastly predates colonial-time migration from Europe.</p>

<p>Australian government has put its significant weight behind the referendum's success. The referendum also finds support from major corporations and welfare groups.</p>

<h2><strong>Divisive public debate</strong></h2>

<p>Reuters reported that opinion polls showed decrease in support for the referendum in recent months.</p>

<p>Those who support the proposal, say that voting yes will help the country mend tied with the Aboriginal population and further unite the nation.</p>

<p>Some of the opponents are arguing however, that the move will lead to division in Australia along racial lines and hand excessive power to the Indigenous community.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/australian-minister-supports-swift-economic-times-with-india-endorses-new-delhis-call-for-wto-reforms-629485">Australian minister supports swift economic talks with India, endorses New Delhi's call for WTO reforms</a></strong></p>

<p>Any constitutional reform needs a national referendum in Australia. The change in the constitution is thus difficult in Australia. In order to pass, the referendum needs more than 50 per cent of votes across the country. In addition, it needs to have support from majority of voters in at least four of six states in Australia.</p>

<p>Previously, there have been 44 proposals for constitutional change and 19 referendums. Only eight of these have passed.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><em>You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form"><strong>here</strong></a>.</em></p>

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Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Wednesday (August 30) that the country will hold the historic indigenous rights referendum on October 14. The referendum is set to lead to a defining moment in Australia's relationship with its Aboriginal minority.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said on Wednesday (August 30) that the country will hold the historic indigenous rights referendum on October 14. The referendum is set to lead to a defining moment in Australia's relationship with its Aboriginal minority. "On that day, every Australian will have a once-in-a-generation chance to bring our country together, and you change it for the better," Albanese said as he locked in the date for the binding vote. "I ask all Australians to vote yes." If the referendum is passed, Indigenous Australians, the ancestors of whom have lived on the continent for at least 60,000 years will be recognised in the country's constitution for the first time. In addition to this, the Aboriginal population would also get constitutionally enshrined right to be consulted on laws that impact their communities, the so-called "Voice to Parliament".  However, the 'yes' campaign is trailing in the polls. If the referendum fails, it is feared that the development would damage inter-race relations and also tarnish Australia's reputation in the world in addition to squandering of once-in-a-generation opportunity to reduce pervasive inequality. Watch | Australia doctors make shocking discovery, find living worm inside woman's brain × Australia has no treaty with its indigenous population. The demographic makes up about 3.2 per cent of nearly 26 million population of the country. On most social-economic measures, meAboriginalhe aboriginal population track below national averages. Aboriginal people find no mention in the constitution in spite of their presence on the continent that vastly predates colonial-time migration from Europe. Australian government has put its significant weight behind the referendum's success. The referendum also finds support from major corporations and welfare groups. Divisive public debate Reuters reported that opinion polls showed decrease in support for the referendum in recent months. Those who support the proposal, say that voting yes will help the country mend tied with the Aboriginal population and further unite the nation. Some of the opponents are arguing however, that the move will lead to division in Australia along racial lines and hand excessive power to the Indigenous community. Also Read | Australian minister supports swift economic talks with India, endorses New Delhi's call for WTO reforms Any constitutional reform needs a national referendum in Australia. The change in the constitution is thus difficult in Australia. In order to pass, the referendum needs more than 50 per cent of votes across the country. In addition, it needs to have support from majority of voters in at least four of six states in Australia. Previously, there have been 44 proposals for constitutional change and 19 referendums. Only eight of these have passed. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Australia declares date of historic Indigenous rights referendum

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