Several warnings&nbsp;were issued and&nbsp;residents of Queensland have been advised to prepare their homes and evacuate if necessary.

About a dozen or so warnings have been issued.

The storm is now moving towards Brisbane and the heavily populated southeast area of Queensland.&nbsp;A&nbsp;person was killed earlier this week in the flooding in the states’ north, reported BBC.

The flood struck Queensland earlier in February, killing 13 people and inundating more than 20,000 houses, Floods in New South Wales claimed the lives of nine more people.&nbsp;

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The rivers reached 23 metres in the month of February and flooded 800 houses and businesses in the town. On Friday (May 13), floods in the Locker Valley, west of Brisbane, swamped some towns and cut off a major highway.

In the month of February, 68 houses were flooded and about 300 properties in the area were predicted to be affected.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Australia: Climate change key point in the election debates

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According to the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland, flooding has closed over 550 highways across the country. Due to extreme circumstances, including strong gusts and dangerous waves, beaches across the state were closed, including all Gold Coast beaches, The Guardian reported.&nbsp;

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The Bureau of Meteorology predicted heavy rains on Friday (May 13) and said this might result in life-threatening flash floods and landslides. For the second time in recent months, residents in Gympie, north of the state capital, have been advised to expect flood in areas, BBC reported.&nbsp;

On May 21, Australians will vote in a federal election in which climate change is an important topic. Several protests have taken place where people demanded the government keep climate change in mind. The country has suffered severe drought, and historic bushfires earlier.&nbsp;

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(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Several warnings were issued and residents of Queensland have been advised to prepare their homes and evacuate if necessary. About a dozen or so warnings have been issued.

Several warnings were issued and residents of Queensland have been advised to prepare their homes and evacuate if necessary. About a dozen or so warnings have been issued. The storm is now moving towards Brisbane and the heavily populated southeast area of Queensland. A person was killed earlier this week in the flooding in the states’ north, reported BBC. The flood struck Queensland earlier in February, killing 13 people and inundating more than 20,000 houses, Floods in New South Wales claimed the lives of nine more people. Also read | Early voting begins in Australia election with opposition ahead in polls The rivers reached 23 metres in the month of February and flooded 800 houses and businesses in the town. On Friday (May 13), floods in the Locker Valley, west of Brisbane, swamped some towns and cut off a major highway. In the month of February, 68 houses were flooded and about 300 properties in the area were predicted to be affected. Watch | Australia: Climate change key point in the election debates According to the Royal Automobile Club of Queensland, flooding has closed over 550 highways across the country. Due to extreme circumstances, including strong gusts and dangerous waves, beaches across the state were closed, including all Gold Coast beaches, The Guardian reported. Also read | 'Bermuda Triangle mystery solved', claims Australian scientist The Bureau of Meteorology predicted heavy rains on Friday (May 13) and said this might result in life-threatening flash floods and landslides. For the second time in recent months, residents in Gympie, north of the state capital, have been advised to expect flood in areas, BBC reported. On May 21, Australians will vote in a federal election in which climate change is an important topic. Several protests have taken place where people demanded the government keep climate change in mind. The country has suffered severe drought, and historic bushfires earlier. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: (With inputs from agencies)

Australians advised to evacuate from Queensland as the country faces new flood emergency

Parts of Australia's Queensland have been hit by heavy rainfall which triggered flash floods. Queensland is bracing for more rainfall.

Australia: Heavy rains trigger flash floods in Queensland

In Australia, climate change is finally at the heart of the upcoming polls. Later surveys show climate issues as a crucial determinant in the poll outcomes.

Australia: Climate change key point in the election debates

Eight months after fleeing Kabul as the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan, Farida trains at a suburban Melbourne pitch, dreaming of one day playing soccer for her country while lamenting the fate of fellow women players back home.

The 20-year-old striker was one of 77 Afghan athletes, family members and officials evacuated from Afghanistan last year by the Australian government after lobbying by prominent figures in the sporting world.

Some of the evacuees have left Australia and found asylum in other countries, but more than 30 women footballers remain in Melbourne, rebuilding their lives with the support of one of the country`s top professional clubs.

"We`re in a secure place and everyone is really nice," Kabul native Farida told Reuters at training with her Afghan teammates on Wednesday.

"But in Afghanistan, after the Taliban took control, everything has been turned upside down."

Girls' and women`s sport has been crushed by the Taliban government`s hardline policies. Men have continued to play sport at community and elite level in the country but women are effectively confined to their homes by a mixture of regulation and intimidation.

The Taliban last week banned women from appearing in public with faces uncovered, having already ordered limits on their movement without a male chaperone. The Afghan footballers in Melbourne enjoy Australia`s freedoms and don`t hesitate to speak out against the Taliban.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wagatha-christie-all-you-need-to-know-about-the-legal-battle-between-coleen-rooney-and-rebekah-vardy-478101">Wagatha Christie: All you need to know about the legal battle between Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy</a>

But Melbourne Victory, who are sponsoring their soccer programme, ask them not to share their surnames for fear of potential reprisals to families back home.

"There are no women`s rights in Afghanistan," said Farida, who is studying at a local university and found work at a local telecommunications firm.

"Women athletes are stuck in their homes. I get text messages from them saying they want to get out of Afghanistan."

Melbourne Victory, four-times champions in Australia`s top-flight A-League, have shown their commitment to the squad by drafting in their successful professional women`s coach Jeff Hopkins to train them while providing support staff and physiotherapists.

The players, of varying age and technical ability, are now competing in a local amateur league while often juggling work, study and English lessons. By offering professional training and pathways, Victory hope the squad might one day be able to play some form of international football as a "team in exile".

"We want to make them the best possible team they can be," Victory`s Director of Football John Didulica told Reuters.

"With that, people will be inspired by their courage, their commitment and their standing up to the ideology of the Taliban as women who are asserting themselves on the sporting field."

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Players joked about Australian slang before they started training, and there was plenty of good-natured banter during drills on a foggy night. Some wore head coverings but most just wore standard soccer kit. Players said the training was a welcome distraction from homesickness and worries about family.

There were limited seats available on the plane that flew them out of Kabul, meaning agonising choices and loved ones left behind. Farida was separated from family at the airport and lost her suitcase in the confusion. 
She has no relatives in Melbourne but lives with one of her teammates.

Fellow striker Shamsia, from Afghanistan`s northern province of Baghlan, described herself as "in shock" after arriving in Australia after transit through Dubai. "Everything was hard for me," the 21-year-old told Reuters.

"Then we started football training and I saw the girls two or three times a week, it got easier every time."

Once training with a national youth squad, Shamsia was on the brink of an international debut in Tajikistan but it was scuppered by the Taliban takeover. She said her little sister back home was probably a more talented footballer than her but had little hope of playing.

That made representing Afghanistan as a team in Melbourne all the more important. "We want to show to the world that women of Afghanistan are strong, and that we won`t stop," she said.

"We will keep fighting."

Eight months after fleeing Kabul as the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan, Farida trains at a suburban Melbourne pitch, dreaming of one day playing soccer for her country while lamenting the fate of fellow women players back home.

Eight months after fleeing Kabul as the Taliban swept to power in Afghanistan, Farida trains at a suburban Melbourne pitch, dreaming of one day playing soccer for her country while lamenting the fate of fellow women players back home. The 20-year-old striker was one of 77 Afghan athletes, family members and officials evacuated from Afghanistan last year by the Australian government after lobbying by prominent figures in the sporting world. Some of the evacuees have left Australia and found asylum in other countries, but more than 30 women footballers remain in Melbourne, rebuilding their lives with the support of one of the country`s top professional clubs. "We`re in a secure place and everyone is really nice," Kabul native Farida told Reuters at training with her Afghan teammates on Wednesday. "But in Afghanistan, after the Taliban took control, everything has been turned upside down." Girls' and women`s sport has been crushed by the Taliban government`s hardline policies. Men have continued to play sport at community and elite level in the country but women are effectively confined to their homes by a mixture of regulation and intimidation. The Taliban last week banned women from appearing in public with faces uncovered, having already ordered limits on their movement without a male chaperone. The Afghan footballers in Melbourne enjoy Australia`s freedoms and don`t hesitate to speak out against the Taliban. Also Read: Wagatha Christie: All you need to know about the legal battle between Coleen Rooney and Rebekah Vardy But Melbourne Victory, who are sponsoring their soccer programme, ask them not to share their surnames for fear of potential reprisals to families back home. "There are no women`s rights in Afghanistan," said Farida, who is studying at a local university and found work at a local telecommunications firm. "Women athletes are stuck in their homes. I get text messages from them saying they want to get out of Afghanistan." Melbourne Victory, four-times champions in Australia`s top-flight A-League, have shown their commitment to the squad by drafting in their successful professional women`s coach Jeff Hopkins to train them while providing support staff and physiotherapists. The players, of varying age and technical ability, are now competing in a local amateur league while often juggling work, study and English lessons. By offering professional training and pathways, Victory hope the squad might one day be able to play some form of international football as a "team in exile". "We want to make them the best possible team they can be," Victory`s Director of Football John Didulica told Reuters. "With that, people will be inspired by their courage, their commitment and their standing up to the ideology of the Taliban as women who are asserting themselves on the sporting field." Also Read: UEFA allows Russia to take part in its congress despite ban on clubs and country Players joked about Australian slang before they started training, and there was plenty of good-natured banter during drills on a foggy night. Some wore head coverings but most just wore standard soccer kit. Players said the training was a welcome distraction from homesickness and worries about family. There were limited seats available on the plane that flew them out of Kabul, meaning agonising choices and loved ones left behind. Farida was separated from family at the airport and lost her suitcase in the confusion. She has no relatives in Melbourne but lives with one of her teammates. Fellow striker Shamsia, from Afghanistan`s northern province of Baghlan, described herself as "in shock" after arriving in Australia after transit through Dubai. "Everything was hard for me," the 21-year-old told Reuters. "Then we started football training and I saw the girls two or three times a week, it got easier every time." Once training with a national youth squad, Shamsia was on the brink of an international debut in Tajikistan but it was scuppered by the Taliban takeover. She said her little sister back home was probably a more talented footballer than her but had little hope of playing. That made representing Afghanistan as a team in Melbourne all the more important. "We want to show to the world that women of Afghanistan are strong, and that we won`t stop," she said. "We will keep fighting."

'We will keep fighting': Afghanistan women footballers train in Australia after fleeing Taliban rule

A man in Australia has been barred from seeing his children because he has a fetish for wearing adult diapers.

The ruling was ordered by the Family Court of Australia after his ex-wife refused to share the custody of their kids with the man, who has not been named by the authorities.

Justice Hilary Hannan from the Family Court ruled that the children of a man who has a fetish for wearing nappies could be psychologically damaged if exposed to their father’s lifestyle, The Daily Telegraph newspaper reported.

Justice Hannan said, "I have great reservations and ultimately do not accept that the father has an authentic willingness or capacity to disavow engaging in the behaviours in question and in his connections to the community."

She went on to say that it was inevitable that the man's children would be exposed to his fetish, which she claimed would badly affect them.

His ex-wife had decided to get separated after she came to know about his weird lifestyle. They met in the mid-2000s.

The woman had agreed to share the custody with the man, provided that he would keep his fetish away from the children.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-phantom-island-keeps-appearing-and-disappearing-on-google-maps-scientists-stumped-477360" hreflang="en">Mysterious ‘phantom island’ keeps appearing and disappearing on Google Maps, scientists stumped</a>

But then things escalated quickly in 2019 when the man visited her house with a “partially exposed” nappy, following which she decided to take legal action.

In 2021, a court had then ruled that he was not allowed to see his children, prompting the man to appeal the decision, saying he posed no risk to his kids.

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But his claim was rejected last month (April 13). He has now decided to approach the high court.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A man in Australia has been barred from seeing his children because he has a fetish for wearing adult diapers. The ruling was ordered by the Family Court of Australia after his ex-wife refused to share the custody of their kids with the man, who has not been named by the authorities.

A man in Australia has been barred from seeing his children because he has a fetish for wearing adult diapers. The ruling was ordered by the Family Court of Australia after his ex-wife refused to share the custody of their kids with the man, who has not been named by the authorities. Justice Hilary Hannan from the Family Court ruled that the children of a man who has a fetish for wearing nappies could be psychologically damaged if exposed to their father’s lifestyle, The Daily Telegraph newspaper reported. Justice Hannan said, "I have great reservations and ultimately do not accept that the father has an authentic willingness or capacity to disavow engaging in the behaviours in question and in his connections to the community." She went on to say that it was inevitable that the man's children would be exposed to his fetish, which she claimed would badly affect them. His ex-wife had decided to get separated after she came to know about his weird lifestyle. They met in the mid-2000s. The woman had agreed to share the custody with the man, provided that he would keep his fetish away from the children. Also read | Mysterious ‘phantom island’ keeps appearing and disappearing on Google Maps, scientists stumped But then things escalated quickly in 2019 when the man visited her house with a “partially exposed” nappy, following which she decided to take legal action. In 2021, a court had then ruled that he was not allowed to see his children, prompting the man to appeal the decision, saying he posed no risk to his kids. Also read | Scientists reveal why mosquitoes prefer human blood over other animals But his claim was rejected last month (April 13). He has now decided to approach the high court. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE

Australian man barred from seeing his kids for having fetish for wearing adult diapers

Australian foreign minister held talks with her counterpart from the Solomon Islands on Friday on issues including the Pacific island nation's security pact with China. The Solomon Islands has reacted sharply to global criticism it has been receiving over the pact.&nbsp;

We have reiterated our deep concerns about the security agreement with China, including the lack of transparency," said Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne after she held talks &nbsp;Jeremiah Manele, Foreign Minister of Solomon Islands.

"We agreed that Australia remains Solomon Islands’ security partner of choice", said Payne.

Solomon Islands' security pact with China, inked last month has alarmed the USA and Australia. There are fears in the western camp that the deal would give China military foothold in Pacific Ocean less than 2,000 kilometres (1,200 miles) from Australia's coast.

Details of the final deal have not been released but a leaked draft included measures that would allow Chinese naval deployments to Solomon Islands.

Australia's government is fighting criticism in the run-up to May 21 federal elections after apparently being outmanoeuvred by China in a region where it has traditionally held strong influence.

'Lack of trust'

The concerns over the security deal have irked Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare.

"We deplore the continued demonstration of lack of trust by the concerned parties," Sogavare told parliament on Tuesday, adding that he had already explained there was&nbsp; 
"nothing to be concerned about" with the China pact.

Without naming countries, Sogavare said Tuesday that there had been "warning of military intervention" if other nations' interests were undermined in Solomon Islands.

"In other words, Mr Speaker, we are threatened with invasion. And that is serious," the prime minister said.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said there had been no invasion threat from Australia, insisting that his government treated its Pacific allies as equals and urging a "calm and composed" approach.

(With inputs from agencies)

Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

 
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Australian foreign minister held talks with her counterpart from the Solomon Islands on Friday on issues including the Pacific island nation's security pact with China.

Australian foreign minister held talks with her counterpart from the Solomon Islands on Friday on issues including the Pacific island nation's security pact with China. The Solomon Islands has reacted sharply to global criticism it has been receiving over the pact. We have reiterated our deep concerns about the security agreement with China, including the lack of transparency," said Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne after she held talks Jeremiah Manele, Foreign Minister of Solomon Islands. "We agreed that Australia remains Solomon Islands’ security partner of choice", said Payne. Solomon Islands' security pact with China, inked last month has alarmed the USA and Australia. There are fears in the western camp that the deal would give China military foothold in Pacific Ocean less than 2,000 kilometres (1,200 miles) from Australia's coast. Details of the final deal have not been released but a leaked draft included measures that would allow Chinese naval deployments to Solomon Islands. Australia's government is fighting criticism in the run-up to May 21 federal elections after apparently being outmanoeuvred by China in a region where it has traditionally held strong influence. 'Lack of trust' The concerns over the security deal have irked Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare. "We deplore the continued demonstration of lack of trust by the concerned parties," Sogavare told parliament on Tuesday, adding that he had already explained there was "nothing to be concerned about" with the China pact. Without naming countries, Sogavare said Tuesday that there had been "warning of military intervention" if other nations' interests were undermined in Solomon Islands. "In other words, Mr Speaker, we are threatened with invasion. And that is serious," the prime minister said. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said there had been no invasion threat from Australia, insisting that his government treated its Pacific allies as equals and urging a "calm and composed" approach. (With inputs from agencies) Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Australia-Solomon Islands meet, discussions include China deal

Australia has a long history of natural disasters, floods, earthquakes, storms, cyclones and landslides. These disasters have been responsible for loss of lives and economic impact as well.

Australia: Climate change causes insurability crisis

Australia is heading to the polls on May 21, 2022. Opinion polls indicate that Prime Minister Scott Morrison is set to be defeated by the Labor party. What will a new government in Canberra mean for the Indo-Pacific? Will Labor reset ties with China? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Will Scott Morrison retain power?

Australia's central bank on Tuesday raised its cash rate by a surprisingly large 25 basis points to 0.35%, the first hike in over a decade, and flagged more to come as it pulls down the curtain on massive pandemic stimulus.

Australia's central bank hikes interest rates

Australia's central bank raised&nbsp;interest&nbsp;rates&nbsp;for the&nbsp;first&nbsp;time&nbsp;in more than a decade on Tuesday, a pre-election hike designed to tame soaring consumer prices.

The Reserve Bank of&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;raised the main lending rate by 25 basis points to 0.35 percent, the&nbsp;first&nbsp;increase&nbsp;since&nbsp;November&nbsp;2010.&nbsp;

Ending record-low&nbsp;rates, the bank said inflation had "picked up significantly and by more than expected" while signalling that "further increases in&nbsp;interest&nbsp;rates" would come.

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The move plunged the bank into the centre of a fierce political debate about the health of&nbsp;Australia's economy, just weeks before a May 21 election.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who is trailing in the polls, said he sympathised with mortgage borrowers who would now face rising costs.

But he insisted&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;is faring better than its peers and that rising inflation is a result of worldwide trends.

Like consumers around the world, Australians have been hit by soaring prices for food and fuel.&nbsp;Australia's annual inflation rate is currently at 5.1 per cent.&nbsp;

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But house prices have been rising for years even as wages have stagnated. Sydney and Melbourne are among the most expensive cities in the world to live.&nbsp;

Morrison pointed to the impact of supply chain constraints caused by the pandemic and a war in Ukraine that has caused "the single largest energy shock we've seen around the world&nbsp;since&nbsp;the 1970s."

The opposition Labor party painted the rate rise as evidence of a weakening economy and the conservative government's economic maladministration.

"If only you could pay your mortgage with Scott Morrison's excuses," said opposition economic spokesman Jim Chalmers.

The rate rise is expected to be the&nbsp;first&nbsp;of several, which could have serious implications for&nbsp;Australia's once-perennially growing economy.

Higher&nbsp;interest&nbsp;rates&nbsp;will spell higher borrowing costs for millions of already heavily indebted Australians, in a country where real estate market speculation is something like a national pastime.

Interest&nbsp;rates&nbsp;of two percent would cost the average homeowner about US$362 a month, according to financial services website RateCity.com.au.

"That's going to be a lot for many borrowers to swallow, particularly anyone already struggling to make the monthly budget add up," said RateCity's Sally Tindall.

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Australia's vast resource wealth has for decades provided insulation from global financial headwinds and underpinned high standards of living.

The country is among the world's largest producers and exporters of iron ore, gas and coal.

But there are growing concerns that the "lucky country's" run of good fortune may be coming to an end.&nbsp;

In early 2020 the economy fell into recession for the&nbsp;first&nbsp;time&nbsp;in almost three decades, largely because of devastating bushfires and the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jeff-bezos-loses-billions-as-amazon-shares-slump-wall-street-tumbles-475071">Jeff Bezos loses billions as Amazon shares slump; Wall Street tumbles</a>

Climate-fuelled floods, bushfires and droughts are proving increasingly costly.

This year's east coast floods cost an estimated Aus$3.35 billion (US$2.4 billion) in insured losses, making it the costliest flood in&nbsp;Australia's history, according to the Insurance Council of&nbsp;Australia.

Australia's central bank raised interest rates for the first time in more than a decade on Tuesday, a pre-election hike designed to tame soaring consumer prices.

Australia's central bank raised interest rates for the first time in more than a decade on Tuesday, a pre-election hike designed to tame soaring consumer prices. The Reserve Bank of Australia raised the main lending rate by 25 basis points to 0.35 percent, the first increase since November 2010. Ending record-low rates, the bank said inflation had "picked up significantly and by more than expected" while signalling that "further increases in interest rates" would come. Also read | Experts predict tough times for Twitter under Musk The move plunged the bank into the centre of a fierce political debate about the health of Australia's economy, just weeks before a May 21 election. Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who is trailing in the polls, said he sympathised with mortgage borrowers who would now face rising costs. But he insisted Australia is faring better than its peers and that rising inflation is a result of worldwide trends. Like consumers around the world, Australians have been hit by soaring prices for food and fuel. Australia's annual inflation rate is currently at 5.1 per cent. Watch | Tesla CEO Musk seeks to put in less money in Twitter deal financing But house prices have been rising for years even as wages have stagnated. Sydney and Melbourne are among the most expensive cities in the world to live. Morrison pointed to the impact of supply chain constraints caused by the pandemic and a war in Ukraine that has caused "the single largest energy shock we've seen around the world since the 1970s." The opposition Labor party painted the rate rise as evidence of a weakening economy and the conservative government's economic maladministration. "If only you could pay your mortgage with Scott Morrison's excuses," said opposition economic spokesman Jim Chalmers. The rate rise is expected to be the first of several, which could have serious implications for Australia's once-perennially growing economy. Higher interest rates will spell higher borrowing costs for millions of already heavily indebted Australians, in a country where real estate market speculation is something like a national pastime. Interest rates of two percent would cost the average homeowner about US$362 a month, according to financial services website RateCity.com.au. "That's going to be a lot for many borrowers to swallow, particularly anyone already struggling to make the monthly budget add up," said RateCity's Sally Tindall. WATCH WION LIVE HERE: Australia's vast resource wealth has for decades provided insulation from global financial headwinds and underpinned high standards of living. The country is among the world's largest producers and exporters of iron ore, gas and coal. But there are growing concerns that the "lucky country's" run of good fortune may be coming to an end. In early 2020 the economy fell into recession for the first time in almost three decades, largely because of devastating bushfires and the start of the Covid-19 pandemic. Also read | Jeff Bezos loses billions as Amazon shares slump; Wall Street tumbles Climate-fuelled floods, bushfires and droughts are proving increasingly costly. This year's east coast floods cost an estimated Aus$3.35 billion (US$2.4 billion) in insured losses, making it the costliest flood in Australia's history, according to the Insurance Council of Australia.

Australia hikes interest rates for first time since 2010

In order to shield the nearby communities from the risk of wildfires, Tingle forests in Western Australia will undergo controlled burning, however a group of botanists have expressed their displeasure and are asking for these over 400-year-old trees to be preserved.

Tingle trees undergo prescribed burns, botanists ask 400-year-old trees to be preserved

In an unprovoked attack, an elderly woman has got injured after getting hit by a large kangaroo on a golf course on Gold Coast in Australia, media reports said. &nbsp;

The incident took place at 9 am on Friday when the 69-year-old woman was playing golf at the Arundel Hills Country Club, as per Queensland ambulance team. &nbsp;

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The woman is currently recovering at the hospital. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Before carrying on the attack, the kangaroo seems to have hit the woman from the side without warning. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the attack, the woman has suffered several cuts on head, arms, face and legs. The woman was taken to Pindara private hospital for treatment. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Taiwan reports 11,353 fresh covid-19 infections | Coronavirus News Updates

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Joel McEwan, ambulance service operations supervisor, told the Guardian, "She’s fallen to the ground at that first kick, and then when she’s been on the ground, she’s been stomped [on] a number of times by the kangaroo. She was walking down the fairway, and the kangaroo came from the side, and just attacked without warning." &nbsp;

"The patient was quite upset at the scene. Obviously, it’s a shock being attacked by quite a large kangaroo. They’re not common, especially on the golf courses where they get quite a lot of kangaroos," McEwan added. &nbsp;

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&nbsp;(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In an unprovoked attack, an elderly woman has got injured after getting hit by a large kangaroo on a golf course on Gold Coast in Australia, media reports said. The incident took place at 9 am on Friday when the 69-year-old woman was playing golf at the Arundel Hills Country Club, as per Queensland ambulance team.

In an unprovoked attack, an elderly woman has got injured after getting hit by a large kangaroo on a golf course on Gold Coast in Australia, media reports said. The incident took place at 9 am on Friday when the 69-year-old woman was playing golf at the Arundel Hills Country Club, as per Queensland ambulance team. Also Read: An unwelcome surprise? Cluster flies torment New Zealand residents The woman is currently recovering at the hospital. Before carrying on the attack, the kangaroo seems to have hit the woman from the side without warning. In the attack, the woman has suffered several cuts on head, arms, face and legs. The woman was taken to Pindara private hospital for treatment. Watch: Taiwan reports 11,353 fresh covid-19 infections | Coronavirus News Updates Joel McEwan, ambulance service operations supervisor, told the Guardian, "She’s fallen to the ground at that first kick, and then when she’s been on the ground, she’s been stomped [on] a number of times by the kangaroo. She was walking down the fairway, and the kangaroo came from the side, and just attacked without warning." "The patient was quite upset at the scene. Obviously, it’s a shock being attacked by quite a large kangaroo. They’re not common, especially on the golf courses where they get quite a lot of kangaroos," McEwan added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE (With inputs from agencies)

Elderly woman recuperates in hospital after kangaroo attack on golf course in Australia  

New tech in Australia helps ease traffic issues. Traffic controlled with cameras will help people avoid traffic. Watch this report to know more.

Traffic controlled with cameras: New tech in Australia helps ease traffic issues

Uber is being sued by Australia's competition watchdog for USD 18.69 million fine. The action has come after Uber admitted to have misled consumers about ride fare estimates and cancellation fees.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) on Tuesday said Uber admitted that between December 2017 and September 2021 it warned consumers they would be charged fees for cancelling rides even though the cancellation was sought during its "free cancellation period."

"Uber admits it misled Australian users for a number of years, and may have caused some of them to decide not to cancel their ride after receiving the cancellation warning, even though they were entitled to cancel free of charge under Uber's own policy," ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.

The competition watchdog also said that Uber admitted to having falsely represented estimates of fare for its taxi option.

"The misleading information on Uber's app deprived consumers of a chance to make an informed decision about whether or not to choose the Uber Taxi option," Cass-Gottlieb said.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Uber said that ever since the ACCC has raised the issue, it has "worked to streamline our in-app messages to make it clear exactly when cancellation charges will or will not apply, per occasion, so that riders always have certainty."

The ACCC and Uber are jointly seeking court orders, including declarations that the ride-hailing platform breached the country's consumer law, and to impose upon it penalties, the regulator said further.

Uber is being sued by Australia's competition watchdog for USD 18.69 million fine. The action has come after Uber admitted to have misled consumers about ride fare estimates and cancellation fees.

Uber is being sued by Australia's competition watchdog for USD 18.69 million fine. The action has come after Uber admitted to have misled consumers about ride fare estimates and cancellation fees. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) on Tuesday said Uber admitted that between December 2017 and September 2021 it warned consumers they would be charged fees for cancelling rides even though the cancellation was sought during its "free cancellation period." "Uber admits it misled Australian users for a number of years, and may have caused some of them to decide not to cancel their ride after receiving the cancellation warning, even though they were entitled to cancel free of charge under Uber's own policy," ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said. The competition watchdog also said that Uber admitted to having falsely represented estimates of fare for its taxi option. "The misleading information on Uber's app deprived consumers of a chance to make an informed decision about whether or not to choose the Uber Taxi option," Cass-Gottlieb said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × Uber said that ever since the ACCC has raised the issue, it has "worked to streamline our in-app messages to make it clear exactly when cancellation charges will or will not apply, per occasion, so that riders always have certainty." The ACCC and Uber are jointly seeking court orders, including declarations that the ride-hailing platform breached the country's consumer law, and to impose upon it penalties, the regulator said further.

Australia: Competition watchdog sues Uber for USD 19 million fine

Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott spoke to WION on the India-Australia free trade deal. Watch this report.

Free trade deal: Former Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott speaks to WION

What would you do if a kangaroo walked into a bar you and your friends went to for lunch? When this happened in reality in Australia, people seem unfazed by the incident.

A video for the same is going viral on social media in which the marsupial, who belongs to the family Macropodidae, casually walks inside a bar located in John Forrest National Park.

People can be seen ordering food when it happens but surprisingly, they don't even bat an eyelid.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-police-suspect-mass-slaughter-as-14-kangaroos-found-dead-in-new-south-wales-419599">Also read |&nbsp;Australia: Police suspect mass slaughter as 14 kangaroos found dead in New South Wales</a>

The video was shared on Facebook-owned social platform Instagram by an account that has the username 'Australian animals'.

Its caption is ''unexpected visitor'' and it has over 85,500 likes and more than 880 comments as well.

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An Instagram user commented, ''We love that everyone there just looked at him and was like 'hm nice' and then kept waiting in line.''

Another wrote ''Doesn’t look ‘unexpected.’ Everyone just moved and went about their business. It didn’t cause a fuss either. Looks like a frequent customer.''

Meanwhile, a third user commented ''The wildflower tavern in John Forrest National park, it’s being shut down by the Western Australian state government to make way for a cafe and retail space. Make a fuss if you don’t want it to be shut down! It’s going to be a great loss.''

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The video has gone viral and has garnered approximately 2.2 million views after being first posted on April 6.

Since 2017, Instagram has witnessed an 80 per cent rise in the time users spend watching videos on the platform.

John Forrest National Park in Perth was the first national park to open in Western Australia and is famous for its regular outing for the local kangaroo population.

What would you do if a kangaroo walked into a bar you and your friends went to for lunch? When this happened in reality in Australia, people seem unfazed by the incident.

What would you do if a kangaroo walked into a bar you and your friends went to for lunch? When this happened in reality in Australia, people seem unfazed by the incident. A video for the same is going viral on social media in which the marsupial, who belongs to the family Macropodidae, casually walks inside a bar located in John Forrest National Park. People can be seen ordering food when it happens but surprisingly, they don't even bat an eyelid. Also read | Australia: Police suspect mass slaughter as 14 kangaroos found dead in New South Wales The video was shared on Facebook-owned social platform Instagram by an account that has the username 'Australian animals'. Its caption is ''unexpected visitor'' and it has over 85,500 likes and more than 880 comments as well. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Australian animals (@australian.animals) An Instagram user commented, ''We love that everyone there just looked at him and was like 'hm nice' and then kept waiting in line.'' Another wrote ''Doesn’t look ‘unexpected.’ Everyone just moved and went about their business. It didn’t cause a fuss either. Looks like a frequent customer.'' Meanwhile, a third user commented ''The wildflower tavern in John Forrest National park, it’s being shut down by the Western Australian state government to make way for a cafe and retail space. Make a fuss if you don’t want it to be shut down! It’s going to be a great loss.'' The video has gone viral and has garnered approximately 2.2 million views after being first posted on April 6. Since 2017, Instagram has witnessed an 80 per cent rise in the time users spend watching videos on the platform. John Forrest National Park in Perth was the first national park to open in Western Australia and is famous for its regular outing for the local kangaroo population.

Watch | This is how Australian people reacted when a kangaroo walked into a bar

Cooma, a small Australian town, has a dark secret: a prison that was used to imprison individuals for "homosexual offences" and supposedly served as a human experimentation ground with the purpose of treating homosexuality.

According to historical archives, New South Wales (NSW) Justice Minister Reg Downing is credited with founding the prison.

BBC reports that Downing described Cooma prison as the only criminal institution in the world, devoted only to the incarceration of gay offenders in a press statement in 1958.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-send-their-warmest-congratulations-to-emmanuel-macron-check-out-the-wishes-473583" hreflang="en">World leaders send their 'warmest congratulations' to Emmanuel Macron. Check out the wishes!</a>

In the jail which was reopened in 1957, as per the podcast ‘The Greatest Menace’ many of the prison staff didn’t even know the real reason that gay prisoners were segregated there.

Les Strzelecki, 66, who began working at the prison as a custodial services officer in 1979 and later founded the Corrective Services Museum in Cooma believes that inmates were put there, for their own safety.

"Cooma was a protective institution. We'd red stamp homosexual prisoners with 'N/A': non-association with mainstream prisons," he told BBC. "They were at risk of violence at bigger prisons like Long Bay [in Sydney]."

However, Cliff New, a former employee, maintains it was for less humane motives. He told a podcast series that psychologists and psychiatrists were coming in all the time.

New interpreted these as conversion attempts, as per him these doctors were attempting to put the gay men on the correct path, hoping to "cure them".

Watch |&nbsp;How netizens are reacting to Apple's 'pregnant man' emoji&nbsp;

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Draconian state laws in the mid-1950s cracked down on homosexuality; in New South Wales homosexuality was a crime until 1984.

While soliciting was a crime, even chatting up another man was a criminal offence for which a man could be jailed.&nbsp;

Historian Garry Wotherspoon while talking to the BBC told of the punishment that buggery or anal sex carried. If proved, it carried a sentence of 14 years and a mere attempt could earn men five years in the Cooma jail.

According to the BBC, the podcast voiced evidence suggesting that the police would actually incite men to commit homosexual acts.

"They'd use hunky policemen to entrap gay men by enticing them to have sex, usually in public toilets," claims Wotherspoon.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-beary-interesting-tale-california-family-finds-a-family-of-bears-sleeping-under-their-house-473571" hreflang="en">A 'beary' interesting tale: Plagued by mysterious noise, California family finds 5 bears under their house</a>

The NSW government established a commission to investigate the "cause and treatment of homosexuality" in 1958. A statement stated it would include "experts in the fields of medicine, psychiatry, penology, and social and moral welfare."

As per Patrick Abboud, the podcast’s developer, psychiatrists addressed issues such as 'did your mother's power drive you to despise other women?'. He also said that "over mothering" was concluded to be a significant cause of homosexuality.

Even so, the mission against homosexuality failed despite all the efforts. Gay men had ongoing relationships in prison and would actually commit offences to go back to their boyfriends.

(With inputs from agencies)

Cooma, a small Australian town, has a dark secret: a prison that was used to imprison individuals for "homosexual offences" and supposedly served as a human experimentation ground with the purpose of treating homosexuality.

Cooma, a small Australian town, has a dark secret: a prison that was used to imprison individuals for "homosexual offences" and supposedly served as a human experimentation ground with the purpose of treating homosexuality. According to historical archives, New South Wales (NSW) Justice Minister Reg Downing is credited with founding the prison. BBC reports that Downing described Cooma prison as the only criminal institution in the world, devoted only to the incarceration of gay offenders in a press statement in 1958. Also read | World leaders send their 'warmest congratulations' to Emmanuel Macron. Check out the wishes! In the jail which was reopened in 1957, as per the podcast ‘The Greatest Menace’ many of the prison staff didn’t even know the real reason that gay prisoners were segregated there. Les Strzelecki, 66, who began working at the prison as a custodial services officer in 1979 and later founded the Corrective Services Museum in Cooma believes that inmates were put there, for their own safety. "Cooma was a protective institution. We'd red stamp homosexual prisoners with 'N/A': non-association with mainstream prisons," he told BBC. "They were at risk of violence at bigger prisons like Long Bay [in Sydney]." However, Cliff New, a former employee, maintains it was for less humane motives. He told a podcast series that psychologists and psychiatrists were coming in all the time. New interpreted these as conversion attempts, as per him these doctors were attempting to put the gay men on the correct path, hoping to "cure them". Watch | How netizens are reacting to Apple's 'pregnant man' emoji Draconian state laws in the mid-1950s cracked down on homosexuality; in New South Wales homosexuality was a crime until 1984. While soliciting was a crime, even chatting up another man was a criminal offence for which a man could be jailed. Historian Garry Wotherspoon while talking to the BBC told of the punishment that buggery or anal sex carried. If proved, it carried a sentence of 14 years and a mere attempt could earn men five years in the Cooma jail. According to the BBC, the podcast voiced evidence suggesting that the police would actually incite men to commit homosexual acts. "They'd use hunky policemen to entrap gay men by enticing them to have sex, usually in public toilets," claims Wotherspoon. Also read | A 'beary' interesting tale: Plagued by mysterious noise, California family finds 5 bears under their house The NSW government established a commission to investigate the "cause and treatment of homosexuality" in 1958. A statement stated it would include "experts in the fields of medicine, psychiatry, penology, and social and moral welfare." As per Patrick Abboud, the podcast’s developer, psychiatrists addressed issues such as 'did your mother's power drive you to despise other women?'. He also said that "over mothering" was concluded to be a significant cause of homosexuality. Even so, the mission against homosexuality failed despite all the efforts. Gay men had ongoing relationships in prison and would actually commit offences to go back to their boyfriends. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia's dark secret: A gay men's prison that conducted experiments to abolish homosexuality

A newborn spider monkey in an Australian zoo has a unique 'Batman' symbol on its face.

Making the announcement, the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne said, "While we do not yet know the sex of the baby, our animal care staff noted that the youngling is doing well, holding on strong to mom and nursing successfully."

“Keepers were surprised to see the baby’s unique markings, noting the resemblance to the Batman symbol!” it added in a statement.

The spider monkey's mother is a 31-year-old who is "a pro at caring for her offspring." &nbsp; &nbsp;

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“Shelley has some experience in motherhood as well, having given birth to current troop members 19-year-old Tica, seven-year-old Prim, and two-year-old Olive. Her offspring Tica is expecting her own baby soon!”&nbsp;

''The baby is also the offspring of 25-year-old male Shooter, who has fathered several other members of our current troop: Olive, Prim, Daisy, and Blue Steel,'' the zoo added.

Other members of Shelley's troops are showing lots of interest in the newest member of the family as per the animal care staff at the Brevard Zoo.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/why-do-some-humans-love-booze-this-study-on-monkeys-might-give-some-answers-468050">Also read |&nbsp;Why do some humans love booze? This study on monkeys might give answers</a>

According to the Brevard Zoo, ''every birth is a safeguard against losing these precious species in their natural range''.

The monkey and its mother are in a habitat of its rainforest revealed as per footage shared by the zoo on its YouTube channel.

Spider monkeys live in three connected living spaces in the zoo where visitors can watch them from a distance.

Black monkeys, which are facing the loss of habitat due and threats from the illegal pet trade, are found in the rainforests of Central and South America. 
&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

A newborn spider monkey in an Australian zoo has a unique 'Batman' symbol on its face. Making the announcement, the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne said, "While we do not yet know the sex of the baby, our animal care staff noted that the youngling is doing well, holding on strong to mom and nursing successfully.

A newborn spider monkey in an Australian zoo has a unique 'Batman' symbol on its face. Making the announcement, the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne said, "While we do not yet know the sex of the baby, our animal care staff noted that the youngling is doing well, holding on strong to mom and nursing successfully." “Keepers were surprised to see the baby’s unique markings, noting the resemblance to the Batman symbol!” it added in a statement. The spider monkey's mother is a 31-year-old who is "a pro at caring for her offspring." “Shelley has some experience in motherhood as well, having given birth to current troop members 19-year-old Tica, seven-year-old Prim, and two-year-old Olive. Her offspring Tica is expecting her own baby soon!” ''The baby is also the offspring of 25-year-old male Shooter, who has fathered several other members of our current troop: Olive, Prim, Daisy, and Blue Steel,'' the zoo added. Other members of Shelley's troops are showing lots of interest in the newest member of the family as per the animal care staff at the Brevard Zoo. Also read | Why do some humans love booze? This study on monkeys might give answers According to the Brevard Zoo, ''every birth is a safeguard against losing these precious species in their natural range''. The monkey and its mother are in a habitat of its rainforest revealed as per footage shared by the zoo on its YouTube channel. Spider monkeys live in three connected living spaces in the zoo where visitors can watch them from a distance. Black monkeys, which are facing the loss of habitat due and threats from the illegal pet trade, are found in the rainforests of Central and South America. (With inputs from agencies)

'Batman Returns': Spider monkey with unique symbol found in Australian zoo

What would you do to buy cheaper grocery items? Go to a different grocer? Hunt for a better website? But how about ordering from a different country? This is not about fancy food items but day-to-day requirements like flour, dry fruits, almonds etc.

To call up a store in a different country for your everyday grocery may look a little overkill but buyers in New Zealand are doing exactly the same.

The reason? High prices in New Zealand.

But wouldn't ordering groceries from a different country be more expensive? Apparently not.

New Zealand is facing inflation. Food prices in the month of March were 7.6 per cent higher than the year before. This is largest annual increase in over a decade. Fruits and vegetable prices were up by 18 per cent. Fuel prices are already high. The annual inflation hit a three-decade high of 6.9 per cent.

Buyers are thus ordering groceries from Australia, and it is turning out to be a cheaper option, as per a report in The Guardian.

The news outlet quoted a woman who said that prices of items in Australia were much lesser then what they were in New Zealand. And even when delivery (by air) charges are added up, it&nbsp; 
proves to be a cheaper deal.

It takes a bit of time for the items to arrive from Australia, but as per the buyers, the wait is worthwhile. Currently, customers are preferring to order non-perishable items. A woman told local media in New Zealand that she saved 35 per cent on her grocery. She reportedly ordered nuts, dry goods and toiletries in bulk.

What would you do to buy cheaper grocery items? Go to a different grocer? Hunt for a better website? But how about ordering from a different country? This is not about fancy food items but day-to-day requirements like flour, dry fruits, almonds etc.

What would you do to buy cheaper grocery items? Go to a different grocer? Hunt for a better website? But how about ordering from a different country? This is not about fancy food items but day-to-day requirements like flour, dry fruits, almonds etc. To call up a store in a different country for your everyday grocery may look a little overkill but buyers in New Zealand are doing exactly the same. The reason? High prices in New Zealand. But wouldn't ordering groceries from a different country be more expensive? Apparently not. New Zealand is facing inflation. Food prices in the month of March were 7.6 per cent higher than the year before. This is largest annual increase in over a decade. Fruits and vegetable prices were up by 18 per cent. Fuel prices are already high. The annual inflation hit a three-decade high of 6.9 per cent. Buyers are thus ordering groceries from Australia, and it is turning out to be a cheaper option, as per a report in The Guardian. The news outlet quoted a woman who said that prices of items in Australia were much lesser then what they were in New Zealand. And even when delivery (by air) charges are added up, it proves to be a cheaper deal. It takes a bit of time for the items to arrive from Australia, but as per the buyers, the wait is worthwhile. Currently, customers are preferring to order non-perishable items. A woman told local media in New Zealand that she saved 35 per cent on her grocery. She reportedly ordered nuts, dry goods and toiletries in bulk.

New Zealanders are ordering grocery from Australia, even saving money

Julian Assange's extradition to the United States took another step forward today, as a London judge ordered his transfer to the nation to face espionage charges. Australia says that it will not interfere in Assange case.

Australia: We will not interfere in Julian Assange's case

China has locked a security pact with the Solomon Islands. Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison is being accused of complacency. Molly Gambhir tells you why Morrison is facing heat.

Gravitas: China in the Solomons: A result of Australia's blunder?

Australian scientists have embarked on an ambitious project to test printed solar panels with Tesla cars in a bid to tackle climate change.

The charge around Australia project to test printed solar panels with Tesla

The highly speculated agreement that will likely help China get a stronger grip over the Pacific has now been signed. China announced on Tuesday that they have signed a security pact with the Solomon islands in what it calls to be an inter-governmental framework agreement between both the nations.

China signs pact with Soloman islands; Australia, US raise concerns

The Sun is erupting and emitting solar flares. On Sunday, one such solar flare caused a radio blackout in Asia and Australia. What is a solar flare? How is it caused? Is it dangerous for human beings? Molly Gambhir brings you a report.

Gravitas: Solar Flare causes Radio Blackout in Asia and Australia

International cruise ships return to Australia after two-year Covid ban - see pics

Australian health authorities are on alert after detection of XE variant of coronavirus in the country. The sub-variant was detected in an overseas traveller who landed in New South Wales (NSW). It is the most populous state in the country.

XE variant of coronavirus is combonation of BA.2 and BA.1

BA.2 is also known as 'stealth Omicron and BA.1 is the original, highly transmissible Omicron variant of the virus.&nbsp;

The overseas traveller was found to be positive for the variant XE on April 9. There are no reports of more&nbsp;Covid cases due this specific variant so far.

On Friday (April 15), the country reported more than 40,000 new Covid cases. More than 30 deaths were reported. New South Wales accounted for 16 of these deaths.

Latest data from Department of Health said that a total of&nbsp;5,073,311 Covid cases have been reported in Australia. Number of deaths is at&nbsp;6,693. By Thursday afternoon, there were&nbsp;435,702 active cases in the country.

There were 3,138 coronavirus cases being treated in Australian hospitals including 126 in intensive care units, Xinhua news agency reported.

Over the past week, there have been an average of 49,474 new cases reported each day. The median age of all cases is 30 years and the median age of deaths is 83.

So far, about 69 per cent of the eligible population had received booster vaccines in the country.

On Friday, one state`s strict coronavirus face mask mandate has been lifted after about nine months. People in South Australia (SA) are no longer required to wear masks in most public indoor spaces. The requirement of mandatory Covid tests before entering Australia has been lifted as well.

(With inputs from agencies)

Australian health authorities are on alert after detection of XE variant of coronavirus in the country. The sub-variant was detected in an overseas traveller who landed in New South Wales (NSW).

Australian health authorities are on alert after detection of XE variant of coronavirus in the country. The sub-variant was detected in an overseas traveller who landed in New South Wales (NSW). It is the most populous state in the country. XE variant of coronavirus is combonation of BA.2 and BA.1 BA.2 is also known as 'stealth Omicron and BA.1 is the original, highly transmissible Omicron variant of the virus. The overseas traveller was found to be positive for the variant XE on April 9. There are no reports of more Covid cases due this specific variant so far. On Friday (April 15), the country reported more than 40,000 new Covid cases. More than 30 deaths were reported. New South Wales accounted for 16 of these deaths. Latest data from Department of Health said that a total of 5,073,311 Covid cases have been reported in Australia. Number of deaths is at 6,693. By Thursday afternoon, there were 435,702 active cases in the country. There were 3,138 coronavirus cases being treated in Australian hospitals including 126 in intensive care units, Xinhua news agency reported. Over the past week, there have been an average of 49,474 new cases reported each day. The median age of all cases is 30 years and the median age of deaths is 83. So far, about 69 per cent of the eligible population had received booster vaccines in the country. On Friday, one state`s strict coronavirus face mask mandate has been lifted after about nine months. People in South Australia (SA) are no longer required to wear masks in most public indoor spaces. The requirement of mandatory Covid tests before entering Australia has been lifted as well. (With inputs from agencies)

Australia: Authorities on alert as first case of Covid XE variant emerges

Australia reported more than 40,000 new Covid cases and more than 30 deaths on Friday, including 16 in New South Wales, the country`s most populous state.

According to the latest Department of Health data, a total of 5,073,311 Covid cases have been reported in Australia, including 6,693 deaths, and approximately 435,702 active cases as of Thursday afternoon.

There were 3,138 coronavirus cases being treated in Australian hospitals including 126 in intensive care units, Xinhua news agency reported.

Over the past week, there have been an average of 49,474 new cases reported each day. The median age of all cases is 30 years and the median age of deaths is 83.

So far, about 69 per cent of the eligible population had received booster vaccines in the country.

On Friday, one state`s strict coronavirus face mask mandate has been lifted after about nine months. People in South Australia (SA) are no longer required to wear masks in most public indoor spaces.

Masks are still required in high-risk settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities and public transport.

Peter Malinauskas, who wwas elected South Australian premier in March, said the new rules would give people more choice.

"Of course, if South Australians want to continue to wear masks, they really have that choice," he said.

Some local businesses hoped customers could still wear masks despite the mandate being dropped.

"I personally would prefer (wearing masks) for everyone`s safety," Fernando Gutierrez, a restaurant owner, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. "I know that a lot of them might get upset if I try to enforce something that by law is (optional). I can`t do anything."

Australia reported more than 40,000 new Covid cases and more than 30 deaths on Friday, including 16 in New South Wales, the country`s most populous state. According to the latest Department of Health data, a total of 5,073,311 Covid cases have been reported in Australia, including 6,693 deaths, and approximately 435,702 active cases as of Thursday afternoon.

Australia reported more than 40,000 new Covid cases and more than 30 deaths on Friday, including 16 in New South Wales, the country`s most populous state. According to the latest Department of Health data, a total of 5,073,311 Covid cases have been reported in Australia, including 6,693 deaths, and approximately 435,702 active cases as of Thursday afternoon. There were 3,138 coronavirus cases being treated in Australian hospitals including 126 in intensive care units, Xinhua news agency reported. Over the past week, there have been an average of 49,474 new cases reported each day. The median age of all cases is 30 years and the median age of deaths is 83. So far, about 69 per cent of the eligible population had received booster vaccines in the country. On Friday, one state`s strict coronavirus face mask mandate has been lifted after about nine months. People in South Australia (SA) are no longer required to wear masks in most public indoor spaces. Masks are still required in high-risk settings such as hospitals, aged care facilities and public transport. Peter Malinauskas, who wwas elected South Australian premier in March, said the new rules would give people more choice. "Of course, if South Australians want to continue to wear masks, they really have that choice," he said. Some local businesses hoped customers could still wear masks despite the mandate being dropped. "I personally would prefer (wearing masks) for everyone`s safety," Fernando Gutierrez, a restaurant owner, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation. "I know that a lot of them might get upset if I try to enforce something that by law is (optional). I can`t do anything."

Australia's Covid cases, deaths continue to rise

A measure of Australian consumer sentiment slipped for a fifth straight month in April as rising inflation and the risk of higher interest rates weighed on family finances and spending intentions.

Australia consumer sentiment slips due to rising inflation

Andrew McDonald has been appointed head coach of Australia in all three formats for the next four years after overseeing their test series victory in Pakistan in a caretaker role.

McDonald had served as an assistant under Justin Langer since 2019 and took the reins in Pakistan after Langer declined the offer of a short-term contract extension and resigned.

The 40-year-old former test all-rounder had been widely expected to take the head coach role on a permanent basis.

"We interviewed several excellent candidates for this role, which is one of the most important in Australian sport," CA boss Nick Hockley said.

"Andrew has already shown he is an outstanding head coach and the vision he outlined for the role during the appointment process was both impressive and exciting, making him our clear choice."

McDonald will lead Australia through a busy year which includes test tours of Sri Lanka and India, and the T20 side`s World Cup defence on home soil.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ambati-rayudu-pulls-off-mind-boggling-one-handed-diving-catch-in-csks-win-over-rcb-in-ipl-2022-470725">WATCH: Rayudu pulls off mind-boggling one-handed diving catch in CSK's win over RCB in IPL 2022</a>

"The journey so far has been particularly pleasing, and I am honoured to be given this incredible opportunity for what is an exciting period ahead," McDonald said.

McDonald, who expressed concerns in February about the workload of coaching in all formats, will be given the option of skipping certain white ball series to rest.

"I think the great challenge for coaches and players is to manage your workload across the four years, being my term at the moment," he told reporters at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday.

"But I`d like to think that I`ve got coaching staff around that can step up.

"We can elevate certain coaches at different times to take on different tours and different challenges and whilst we`re doing that it`s growing the depth of our coaching staff."

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/remaining-10-were-having-lassi-harbhajan-singh-on-ms-dhoni-getting-credit-for-indias-2011-world-cup-win-470704">'Remaining 10 were having lassi?': Harbhajan Singh on MS Dhoni getting credit for India's 2011 World Cup win</a>

McDonald already has batting coach Michael Di Venuto, fielding coach Jeff Vaughan and spin bowling consultant Sri Sriram on his staff but will be looking for a full-time bowling coach, having occupied the role before stepping up as caretaker.

He will also sit on the three-man selection panel for all formats along with chairman George Bailey and Tony Dodemaide.

Andrew McDonald has been appointed head coach of Australia in all three formats for the next four years after overseeing their test series victory in Pakistan in a caretaker role.

Andrew McDonald has been appointed head coach of Australia in all three formats for the next four years after overseeing their test series victory in Pakistan in a caretaker role. McDonald had served as an assistant under Justin Langer since 2019 and took the reins in Pakistan after Langer declined the offer of a short-term contract extension and resigned. The 40-year-old former test all-rounder had been widely expected to take the head coach role on a permanent basis. "We interviewed several excellent candidates for this role, which is one of the most important in Australian sport," CA boss Nick Hockley said. "Andrew has already shown he is an outstanding head coach and the vision he outlined for the role during the appointment process was both impressive and exciting, making him our clear choice." McDonald will lead Australia through a busy year which includes test tours of Sri Lanka and India, and the T20 side`s World Cup defence on home soil. Also Read: WATCH: Rayudu pulls off mind-boggling one-handed diving catch in CSK's win over RCB in IPL 2022 "The journey so far has been particularly pleasing, and I am honoured to be given this incredible opportunity for what is an exciting period ahead," McDonald said. McDonald, who expressed concerns in February about the workload of coaching in all formats, will be given the option of skipping certain white ball series to rest. "I think the great challenge for coaches and players is to manage your workload across the four years, being my term at the moment," he told reporters at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Wednesday. "But I`d like to think that I`ve got coaching staff around that can step up. "We can elevate certain coaches at different times to take on different tours and different challenges and whilst we`re doing that it`s growing the depth of our coaching staff." Also Read: 'Remaining 10 were having lassi?': Harbhajan Singh on MS Dhoni getting credit for India's 2011 World Cup win McDonald already has batting coach Michael Di Venuto, fielding coach Jeff Vaughan and spin bowling consultant Sri Sriram on his staff but will be looking for a full-time bowling coach, having occupied the role before stepping up as caretaker. He will also sit on the three-man selection panel for all formats along with chairman George Bailey and Tony Dodemaide.

Andrew McDonald replaces Justin Langer as the new head coach of Australian men's cricket team

New Zealand welcomed hundreds of travellers from Australia with emotional scenes on Wednesday as it opened its borders to its trans-Tasmanian neighbour for the first time since mid-2021.

Maori cultural performers greeted travellers while families and friends hugged and cried at the Auckland International Airport where two flights from Australia landed this morning. Those waiting in the arrivals lounge held up boards saying "Hello &amp; Kia Ora &amp; G'day &amp; Welcome".

"Just so, so excited to be back, and all I really want to do is spend time with the family really," Jane Cheeseman told the New Zealand Herald, as she and her two children were reunited with her sister ahead of Easter holiday.

New Zealand had some of the toughest curbs in the world during the pandemic and its borders have been closed for most of the time since March 2020, except for a short-lived travel bubble with Australia last year that was suspended after a few months as COVID-19 spread.

But the government has started to ease these increasingly unpopular measures, hoping to boost tourism and ease labour shortages now that Omicron is widespread domestically.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told Australia's Channel 7 she was "extraordinarily excited" about the reopening.

"I can't actually imagine or remember a time when we would have been just so excited to be welcoming our Australian family back to our shores. It's very genuine," she added.

Air New Zealand said it was running 11 near-full flights from Australia on Wednesday.

"This is the first step in welcoming international visitors back to our shores and we couldn't be more excited for both New Zealand and Air New Zealand," the airline's chief customer and sales officer, Leanne Geraghty, said in a statement.

RULES FOR TRAVELLERS

Foreigners were previously banned from entering New Zealand, and until February citizens looking to return had to either make emergency requests to the government or secure a spot in state quarantine facilities.

Most travellers coming into the country have to undertake pre-departure and arrival testing, while most foreigners are also required to be fully vaccinated.

Tourists from visa-waiver countries including the United States, Britain and Singapore will be able to visit from May 1. The border will remain closed for all other visitors until October.

Chris Hipkins, COVID-19 Response Minister, said curbs in the country would be further eased as the number of new cases fall.

From Thursday, there will be no restrictions on the number of people attending indoor events and there will be some easing on where masks have to be worn.

New Zealand, which has a population of just over 5 million, reported 9,542 new cases in the past 24 hours, well below a peak of more than 20,000 new cases a day. It has recorded just 497 deaths from COVID since the start of the outbreak.&nbsp;

New Zealand welcomed hundreds of travellers from Australia with emotional scenes on Wednesday as it opened its borders to its trans-Tasmanian neighbour for the first time since mid-2021.

New Zealand welcomed hundreds of travellers from Australia with emotional scenes on Wednesday as it opened its borders to its trans-Tasmanian neighbour for the first time since mid-2021. Maori cultural performers greeted travellers while families and friends hugged and cried at the Auckland International Airport where two flights from Australia landed this morning. Those waiting in the arrivals lounge held up boards saying "Hello & Kia Ora & G'day & Welcome". "Just so, so excited to be back, and all I really want to do is spend time with the family really," Jane Cheeseman told the New Zealand Herald, as she and her two children were reunited with her sister ahead of Easter holiday. New Zealand had some of the toughest curbs in the world during the pandemic and its borders have been closed for most of the time since March 2020, except for a short-lived travel bubble with Australia last year that was suspended after a few months as COVID-19 spread. But the government has started to ease these increasingly unpopular measures, hoping to boost tourism and ease labour shortages now that Omicron is widespread domestically. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern told Australia's Channel 7 she was "extraordinarily excited" about the reopening. "I can't actually imagine or remember a time when we would have been just so excited to be welcoming our Australian family back to our shores. It's very genuine," she added. Air New Zealand said it was running 11 near-full flights from Australia on Wednesday. "This is the first step in welcoming international visitors back to our shores and we couldn't be more excited for both New Zealand and Air New Zealand," the airline's chief customer and sales officer, Leanne Geraghty, said in a statement. RULES FOR TRAVELLERS Foreigners were previously banned from entering New Zealand, and until February citizens looking to return had to either make emergency requests to the government or secure a spot in state quarantine facilities. Most travellers coming into the country have to undertake pre-departure and arrival testing, while most foreigners are also required to be fully vaccinated. Tourists from visa-waiver countries including the United States, Britain and Singapore will be able to visit from May 1. The border will remain closed for all other visitors until October. Chris Hipkins, COVID-19 Response Minister, said curbs in the country would be further eased as the number of new cases fall. From Thursday, there will be no restrictions on the number of people attending indoor events and there will be some easing on where masks have to be worn. New Zealand, which has a population of just over 5 million, reported 9,542 new cases in the past 24 hours, well below a peak of more than 20,000 new cases a day. It has recorded just 497 deaths from COVID since the start of the outbreak.

With hugs, tears and Maori performers, New Zealand welcomes Australian visitors as curbs ease

The Australian state of Victoria will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games across four regional hubs in a break from the traditional single-city model, the government said on Tuesday. With no other countries outside Australia making a bid, Victoria was granted an exclusive negotiating period to secure the Games in February.

"It’s a great honour to have Victoria chosen as the host venue for the 2026 Commonwealth Games -- we can’t wait to welcome the world to all of our state," Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews said. Victoria capital Melbourne hosted the 2006 Games and will stage the 2026 opening ceremony at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, but the sports will be spread far and wide. Each of the regional hubs in Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and Gippsland will have their own athletes` village.

Geelong, a port city an hour southwest of Melbourne, will host swimming, gymnastics, beach volleyball and other sports. Ballarat and Bendigo, goldfield cities in central Victoria, will have athletics, boxing, netball, squash and weightlifting. The Gippsland region in eastern Victoria will have rugby sevens, badminton and cycling. Twenty20 cricket has also been included in a core group of 16 sports.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/commonwealth-games-2022-indian-weightlifter-mirabai-chanus-entry-in-womens-55kg-category-rejected-470018">Commonwealth Games 2022: Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu's entry in women's 55kg category rejected</a>

Other sports may yet be added to the programme, which could mean other locations hosting events, the government said. "It is different,” Andrews told reporters in Melbourne on Tuesday. "I’m sure from (Commonwealth Games authorities`) point of view, it’s a bit riskier than just running it in the middle of a large city."But to do this and to do it well – and we will – there’s an opportunity here ... an opportunity like no other."

RUNWAY FOR 2032 
The quadrennial Games, a multi-sport gathering for mostly former British colonies, has struggled to remain relevant, with four of the last five editions held in Australia or Britain. 
Australia, however, relishes its athletes` dominance in a relatively weak pool of nations, and fans flocked to the well-organised Gold Coast Games in 2018.

Victoria will be used as a "runway" for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. "We now have a second major home Games in prospect," said Australian Olympic Committee chief Matt Carroll. "Commonwealth Games in 2026 is a major marker on that runway." Victoria estimated the Games would contribute more than A$3 billion ($2.22 billion) to its economy and create thousands of jobs.

The New Zealand Olympic Committee congratulated Victoria. "Bringing the 2026 Commonwealth Games to Victoria is fantastic news for New Zealand," the NZOC said in a statement. "New Zealand athletes will have a home advantage with better travel, training and performance opportunities, and only a quick flight for friends, whanau (family) and fans to support the team on the ground."

English city Birmingham will host the 2022 Commonwealth Games from July 28-Aug. 8, having replaced South Africa, who were stripped of them in 2017 over a lack of progress in preparations.

The Australian state of Victoria will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games across four regional hubs in a break from the traditional single-city model, the government said on Tuesday.

The Australian state of Victoria will host the 2026 Commonwealth Games across four regional hubs in a break from the traditional single-city model, the government said on Tuesday. With no other countries outside Australia making a bid, Victoria was granted an exclusive negotiating period to secure the Games in February. "It’s a great honour to have Victoria chosen as the host venue for the 2026 Commonwealth Games -- we can’t wait to welcome the world to all of our state," Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews said. Victoria capital Melbourne hosted the 2006 Games and will stage the 2026 opening ceremony at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, but the sports will be spread far and wide. Each of the regional hubs in Geelong, Ballarat, Bendigo and Gippsland will have their own athletes` village. Geelong, a port city an hour southwest of Melbourne, will host swimming, gymnastics, beach volleyball and other sports. Ballarat and Bendigo, goldfield cities in central Victoria, will have athletics, boxing, netball, squash and weightlifting. The Gippsland region in eastern Victoria will have rugby sevens, badminton and cycling. Twenty20 cricket has also been included in a core group of 16 sports. ALSO READ | Commonwealth Games 2022: Indian weightlifter Mirabai Chanu's entry in women's 55kg category rejected Other sports may yet be added to the programme, which could mean other locations hosting events, the government said. "It is different,” Andrews told reporters in Melbourne on Tuesday. "I’m sure from (Commonwealth Games authorities`) point of view, it’s a bit riskier than just running it in the middle of a large city."But to do this and to do it well – and we will – there’s an opportunity here ... an opportunity like no other." RUNWAY FOR 2032 The quadrennial Games, a multi-sport gathering for mostly former British colonies, has struggled to remain relevant, with four of the last five editions held in Australia or Britain. Australia, however, relishes its athletes` dominance in a relatively weak pool of nations, and fans flocked to the well-organised Gold Coast Games in 2018. Victoria will be used as a "runway" for the 2032 Brisbane Olympics. "We now have a second major home Games in prospect," said Australian Olympic Committee chief Matt Carroll. "Commonwealth Games in 2026 is a major marker on that runway." Victoria estimated the Games would contribute more than A$3 billion ($2.22 billion) to its economy and create thousands of jobs. The New Zealand Olympic Committee congratulated Victoria. "Bringing the 2026 Commonwealth Games to Victoria is fantastic news for New Zealand," the NZOC said in a statement. "New Zealand athletes will have a home advantage with better travel, training and performance opportunities, and only a quick flight for friends, whanau (family) and fans to support the team on the ground." English city Birmingham will host the 2022 Commonwealth Games from July 28-Aug. 8, having replaced South Africa, who were stripped of them in 2017 over a lack of progress in preparations.

CWG 2026: Australia's Victoria to spread showpiece event far and wide

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