Abandoned fishing gear is attributed to nearly 10 percent of the trash found in the world's oceans. Australian fishermen are trying to make the rock lobster trade more environmental friendly. Watch this report to know more.

Fishermen in Australia switch to plastic-free fishing

Australia's&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;Labor Party&nbsp;leader, Anthony Albanese, said Monday he was only "human" after being unable to remember the country's unemployment&nbsp;rate&nbsp;on the first full day of campaigning for May 21 elections.

Albanese's party is ahead in the polls as he seeks to oust Prime Minister Scott Morrison's conservative coalition government.

The economy is a key issue for many of the country's 17 million voters.

&nbsp;Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-announces-general-elections-on-may-21-469899">Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announces general elections on May 21</a>

Asked to give the national&nbsp;jobless&nbsp;rate&nbsp;by a reporter, Albanese stumbled, replying: "The national unemployment&nbsp;rate&nbsp;at the moment is, I think it is 5 point...4, sorry, I am not sure what it is."

Australia's unemployment&nbsp;rate&nbsp;is at a 13-year low of 4.0 per cent, a level that Morrison has been touting as he warns voters not to trust Labour with the economy.

Albanese also skirted questions on the key interest that banks charge each other for overnight loans. Known as the bank&nbsp;rate, or the cash&nbsp;rate, it stands at 0.1 per cent.

"Earlier today I made a mistake. I'm human," Albanese said shortly afterwards.

Watch |&nbsp;Australian PM Scott Morrison calls federal election for May 21

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"But when I make a mistake I will fess up to it and I will set about correcting that mistake. I won't blame someone else. I will accept responsibility. That's what leaders do."

On a two-party basis, Labor leads the Liberal-National Party coalition by 53 per cent to 47 per cent, according to the latest Newspoll released this weekend.

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Asked similar questions later, Morrison gave the correct figures, adding his own government's prediction that the unemployment&nbsp;rate&nbsp;"is falling to a 50-year low".

Multiple surveys show the cost of living, with gasoline prices soaring since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, is a key concern ahead of the election.

Australia's opposition Labor Party leader, Anthony Albanese, said Monday he was only "human" after being unable to remember the country's unemployment rate on the first full day of campaigning for May 21 elections.

Australia's opposition Labor Party leader, Anthony Albanese, said Monday he was only "human" after being unable to remember the country's unemployment rate on the first full day of campaigning for May 21 elections. Albanese's party is ahead in the polls as he seeks to oust Prime Minister Scott Morrison's conservative coalition government. The economy is a key issue for many of the country's 17 million voters. Also read | Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announces general elections on May 21 Asked to give the national jobless rate by a reporter, Albanese stumbled, replying: "The national unemployment rate at the moment is, I think it is 5 point...4, sorry, I am not sure what it is." Australia's unemployment rate is at a 13-year low of 4.0 per cent, a level that Morrison has been touting as he warns voters not to trust Labour with the economy. Albanese also skirted questions on the key interest that banks charge each other for overnight loans. Known as the bank rate, or the cash rate, it stands at 0.1 per cent. "Earlier today I made a mistake. I'm human," Albanese said shortly afterwards. Watch | Australian PM Scott Morrison calls federal election for May 21 "But when I make a mistake I will fess up to it and I will set about correcting that mistake. I won't blame someone else. I will accept responsibility. That's what leaders do." On a two-party basis, Labor leads the Liberal-National Party coalition by 53 per cent to 47 per cent, according to the latest Newspoll released this weekend. Also read | Singapore sentences Australian for hurling bottle, killing man in 'act of religious hostility toward Muslims' Asked similar questions later, Morrison gave the correct figures, adding his own government's prediction that the unemployment rate "is falling to a 50-year low". Multiple surveys show the cost of living, with gasoline prices soaring since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, is a key concern ahead of the election.

Australia's opposition leader forgets jobless rate, says 'I made a mistake. I'm human'

Political parties have started their election campaigning after Prime Minister Scott Morrison called for federal elections to be held on May 21. Morrison kicked off his election campaign from New South Wales and will be spending the next six weeks on the road before the day of the voting.

Australia: PM Scott Morrison kicks off campaign from NSW, Can Djokovic saga help opposition?

Australian prime minister Scott Morrison has announced the dates for the country's next general election that have been called for May 21. PM Morrison will be fighting to stay in power.

Australian PM Scott Morrison calls federal election for May 21

Australia floods force thousands to evacuate for the second time in a month

Relentless rainfall lashed Australia's east coast on Thursday with Sydney receiving nearly a month's worth of rain just overnight. The flash flood submerged city roads and forced citizens to evacuate eastern Australia.

Flash floods in Sydney, citizens asked to stay on alert

The global race for hypersonic weapons is heating up. Russia has claimed it used hypersonic weapons in Ukraine. In response, AUKUS - the alliance of Australia, the US & the UK - has announced it will develop hypersonic weapons. Palki Sharma Upadhyay tells you more.

Gravitas: World powers compete for weapons that travel faster than sound

As part of the new AUKUS alliance, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia will jointly start collaborating on hypersonic weapons and electronic warfare capabilities.

As part of the new AUKUS alliance, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia will jointly start collaborating on hypersonic weapons and electronic warfare capabilities. The decision has been taken after a call between the leaders of the new defence alliance. In a joint statement, they informed, "We... committed today to commence new trilateral cooperation on hypersonics and counter-hypersonics, and electronic warfare capabilities, as well as to expand information sharing and to deepen cooperation on defence innovation." "These initiatives will add to our existing efforts to deepen cooperation on cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and additional undersea capabilities," the statement read. "As our work progresses on these and other critical defense and security capabilities, we will seek opportunities to engage allies and close partners," it added. IN PICS | Russia-Ukraine war: Antonov AN-225, world's largest plane, in tatters. See pics AUKUS leaders have agreed to deepen their partnership across defence, technology and information sharing. We are unwavering in our commitment to an international system based on the rule of law and human rights. 🇬🇧🇺🇸🇦🇺 — UK Prime Minister (@10DowningStreet) April 5, 2022 × Meanwhile, the US military said it tested a new hypersonic missile. The US said it completed a free-flight test of an aircraft-launched hypersonic missile that maintained a speed of more than Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound. The three partners of the AUKUS alliance said the joint initiatives will bolster existing efforts to deepen cooperation in numerous areas that they already agreed. The alliance, formed last September, aimed at countering China, The had also prompted Australia to cancel a crucial contract for a conventional French submarine in favour of a nuclear submarine program supported by the United States and Britain. The deal had angered French President Emmanuel Macron and the bilateral ties between France and Australia also appeared to be damaged. Important to note that Russia, China, the United States and North Korea have all test-launched hypersonic missiles. ALSO READ | Angela Merkel rejects Zelensky's criticism, stands by her decision to block Ukraine from NATO WATCH | AUKUS to work on hypersonic weapons × What are Hypersonic missiles? Hypersonic missiles, like traditional ballistic missiles which can deliver nuclear weapons, can fly at more than five times the speed of sound. While ballistic missiles fly high into space in an arc to reach their target, a hypersonic weapon flies on a trajectory low in the atmosphere, potentially reaching a target more quickly. Crucially, a hypersonic missile is manoeuvrable - like the much slower, often subsonic cruise missile - making it much harder to track and defend against. #UPDATE The United States, Britain and Australia said they will begin jointly collaborating on hypersonic weapons and "electronic warfare capabilities", as part of their new AUKUS alliance aimed at countering China https://t.co/9945s5OGyg pic.twitter.com/riSWnWgkS8 — AFP News Agency (@AFP) April 5, 2022 × US tests hypersonic missile On Tuesday (April 5), the US military announced a new successful test of a hypersonic missile, which was done apparently in mid-March but was kept in dark due to the ongoing Russia and Ukraine conflict. CNN report mentioned that the US remained quiet to avoid escalating tensions with Russia as President Joe Biden was about to travel to Europe. The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) said it had recently completed a free-flight test of an aircraft-launched hypersonic missile that maintained a speed of more than Mach 5, or five times the speed of sound (at least 3,800 miles per hour, or 6,100 kilometres per hour). The missile flew to an altitude greater than 19,800 meters and soared over 300 nautical miles, said DARPA, the Pentagon's high-tech research body. (With inputs from agencies)

US tests hypersonic missile; Australia, US, UK agree to cooperate on hypersonic weapons

International captains Babar Azam from Pakistan, Kraigg Brathwaite of West Indies and Australia's Pat Cummins have been shortlisted for the ICC men's Player of the Month award following their outstanding individual performances in March.

In women's category, England bowler Sophie Ecclestone, and run-machines Rachael Haynes (Australia) and Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa) are in the running to scoop the award following stellar performances in the recently concluded ODI World Cup.

The winners will be announced next week.

Babar played an integral part in Pakistan's batting during the recent series against Australia, amassing 390 runs during the month in Tests, including a record-breaking 196 in the second Test to salvage a draw.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/big-blow-for-rajasthan-royals-as-all-rounder-nathan-coulter-nile-ruled-of-ipl-2022-due-to-side-strain-468848">Big blow for Rajasthan Royals! All-rounder Nathan Coulter-Nile ruled of IPL 2022 due to side strain</a>

In addition, his efforts at the crease in the two ODI matches during the month saw Babar score 57 and 114 respectively, with the latter helping his side chase down an imposing target of 349 set by Australia.

This is the second time he's featured on the short-list for the ICC Player of the Month award, after winning in April 2021.

West Indies skipper and opening batter Brathwaite led from the front during the recently-concluded successful WTC series against England, scoring 341 runs at an average of 85.25.

He scored a monumental 160 from 489 balls in the second Test in response to England's big first-innings total. This mammoth innings ensured a drawn second Test and provided the platform for his side to clinch the series by winning the final showdown in Grenada.

Cummins, on the other hand, stood out for his bowling performances in unforgiving conditions during the WTC Test series which was dominated by run-scoring.

He led his side to victory in Pakistan with a match-winning spell, taking 5 for 56 in the first innings and following it up with 3 for 23 in the second innings of the final test.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/yuvraj-is-not-one-of-those-dhoni-is-paddy-upton-feels-ex-india-captain-a-massive-high-pressure-player-468850">Yuvraj is not one of those, Dhoni is: Paddy Upton feels ex-India captain a 'massive high-pressure' player</a>

Taking 12 wickets at an average of 22.50 helped Cummins secure his first nomination in the ICC Player of the Month awards.

In women's category, Ecclestone was nominated for the second time following her outstanding bowling performances which helped steer her side to the World Cup final. She took 20 wickets during the calendar month at an average of 12.85.

Haynes too was at the forefront of Australia's unbeaten run through to the World Cup Final, scoring 429 runs in the eight matches at an average of 61.28 and a healthy strike rate of 84.28 during the month.

Wolvaardt, on the other hand, played a critical role in taking South Africa to the semi-finals. She was the tournament's leading run-scorer, amassing 433 runs at an average of 54.12, passing 50 on five occasions.

International captains Babar Azam from Pakistan, Kraigg Brathwaite of West Indies and Australia's Pat Cummins have been shortlisted for the ICC men's Player of the Month award following their outstanding individual performances in March.

International captains Babar Azam from Pakistan, Kraigg Brathwaite of West Indies and Australia's Pat Cummins have been shortlisted for the ICC men's Player of the Month award following their outstanding individual performances in March. In women's category, England bowler Sophie Ecclestone, and run-machines Rachael Haynes (Australia) and Laura Wolvaardt (South Africa) are in the running to scoop the award following stellar performances in the recently concluded ODI World Cup. The winners will be announced next week. Babar played an integral part in Pakistan's batting during the recent series against Australia, amassing 390 runs during the month in Tests, including a record-breaking 196 in the second Test to salvage a draw. ALSO READ: Big blow for Rajasthan Royals! All-rounder Nathan Coulter-Nile ruled of IPL 2022 due to side strain In addition, his efforts at the crease in the two ODI matches during the month saw Babar score 57 and 114 respectively, with the latter helping his side chase down an imposing target of 349 set by Australia. This is the second time he's featured on the short-list for the ICC Player of the Month award, after winning in April 2021. West Indies skipper and opening batter Brathwaite led from the front during the recently-concluded successful WTC series against England, scoring 341 runs at an average of 85.25. He scored a monumental 160 from 489 balls in the second Test in response to England's big first-innings total. This mammoth innings ensured a drawn second Test and provided the platform for his side to clinch the series by winning the final showdown in Grenada. Cummins, on the other hand, stood out for his bowling performances in unforgiving conditions during the WTC Test series which was dominated by run-scoring. He led his side to victory in Pakistan with a match-winning spell, taking 5 for 56 in the first innings and following it up with 3 for 23 in the second innings of the final test. ALSO READ: Yuvraj is not one of those, Dhoni is: Paddy Upton feels ex-India captain a 'massive high-pressure' player Taking 12 wickets at an average of 22.50 helped Cummins secure his first nomination in the ICC Player of the Month awards. In women's category, Ecclestone was nominated for the second time following her outstanding bowling performances which helped steer her side to the World Cup final. She took 20 wickets during the calendar month at an average of 12.85. Haynes too was at the forefront of Australia's unbeaten run through to the World Cup Final, scoring 429 runs in the eight matches at an average of 61.28 and a healthy strike rate of 84.28 during the month. Wolvaardt, on the other hand, played a critical role in taking South Africa to the semi-finals. She was the tournament's leading run-scorer, amassing 433 runs at an average of 54.12, passing 50 on five occasions.

ICC Player of the Month: Babar Azam, Kraigg Brathwaite and Pat Cummins nominated for March

In a big blow to Rajasthan Royals, Australian pace bowling all-rounder Nathan Coulter-Nile was on Wednesday ruled out of the ongoing IPL, owing to a side strain he suffered during the team's first game against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

The 34-year-old has returned home for rehabilitation.

"Unfortunately, I have the hard task of wishing him farewell," RR's head physio John Gloster said in a video posted by the franchise on Twitter.

"It's always hard to lose someone, particularly when it's through injury. And you know we were really looking forward to spending a lot of time with you (Coulter-Nile) throughout this tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ipl-2022-will-pat-cummins-get-a-look-in-for-shreyas-iyer-co-predicting-kkrs-playing-xi-for-mi-clash-468841">IPL 2022: Will Pat Cummins get a look-in for Shreyas Iyer &amp; Co.? Predicting KKR's playing XI for MI clash</a>

"Unfortunately, that's not going to be. But you are a big part of us. Anything you need from us, we are always here. We look forward to having you back with us, whenever that might be."

It was in the final over of the SRH innings when Coulter-Nile began to struggle in his follow-through and walked off the field on March 29.

He was picked up by RR for Rs 2 crore in the IPL mega auction.

In a big blow to Rajasthan Royals, Australian pace bowling all-rounder Nathan Coulter-Nile was on Wednesday ruled out of the ongoing IPL, owing to a side strain he suffered during the team's first game against Sunrisers Hyderabad.

In a big blow to Rajasthan Royals, Australian pace bowling all-rounder Nathan Coulter-Nile was on Wednesday ruled out of the ongoing IPL, owing to a side strain he suffered during the team's first game against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The 34-year-old has returned home for rehabilitation. "Unfortunately, I have the hard task of wishing him farewell," RR's head physio John Gloster said in a video posted by the franchise on Twitter. "It's always hard to lose someone, particularly when it's through injury. And you know we were really looking forward to spending a lot of time with you (Coulter-Nile) throughout this tournament. ALSO READ: IPL 2022: Will Pat Cummins get a look-in for Shreyas Iyer & Co.? Predicting KKR's playing XI for MI clash "Unfortunately, that's not going to be. But you are a big part of us. Anything you need from us, we are always here. We look forward to having you back with us, whenever that might be." It was in the final over of the SRH innings when Coulter-Nile began to struggle in his follow-through and walked off the field on March 29. He was picked up by RR for Rs 2 crore in the IPL mega auction.

Big blow for Rajasthan Royals! All-rounder Nathan Coulter-Nile ruled of IPL 2022 due to side strain

Nick Kyrgios of Australia used three sets to defeat American Mackenzie McDonald 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 Tuesday in the first round of the Fayez Sarofim &amp; Co. U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship in Houston.

Playing as a wild card, Kyrgios earned his first win on clay since 2019. He most recently made a stellar run at the Miami Open but was fined $35,000 for unsportsmanlike behavior during his Round of 16 defeat.

American wild card J.J. Wolf knocked off countryman and eighth seed Jenson Brooksby 6-4, 6-4. Wolf dialed up four aces and won three of six break-point opportunities against Brooksby.

Chilean fifth seed Cristian Garin came back to beat American wild-card entrant Jack Sock 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, while sixth-seeded Frances Tiafoe defeated U.S. countryman Marcos Giron 6-4, 6-4.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/planning-to-play-the-masters-says-star-golfer-tiger-woods-after-car-crash-468698">Planning to play the Masters, says star golfer Tiger Woods after car crash</a>

No. 7 seed Tommy Paul of the United States won when German opponent Peter Gojowczyk retired in the third set. Other winners Tuesday included Dutch qualifier Gijs Brouwer, Australia's Jordan Thompson, Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas, Chile's Alejandro Tabilo and Americans Steve Johnson, Sam Querrey and qualifier Mitchell Krueger.

Grand Prix Hassan II

No. 2 seed Daniel Evans, No. 4 seed Albert Ramos-Vinolas, No. 5 seed Federico Delbonis and No. 7 seed Alejandro Davidovich Fokina all lost on the opening day at Marrakech, Morocco.

Spain's Pablo Andujar upset Great Britain`s Evans 6-4, 6-2, despite Evans saving 12 of 17 breakpoints.

Italian Lorenzo Musetti took down Spaniard Ramos-Vinolas 7-6 (5), 6-1.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fih-junior-world-cup-mumtaz-khans-hat-trick-powers-india-to-emphatic-4-0-win-over-malaysia-face-korea-in-qf-468684">FIH Junior World Cup: Mumtaz Khan's hat-trick powers India to emphatic 4-0 win over Malaysia, face Korea in QF</a>

Portugal's Joao Sousa beat Delbonis 6-2, 5-7, 6-3 in two hours, 28 minutes, and Argentina's Federico Coria beat Spniard Davidovich 7-5, 3-6, 6-4.

Canadian top seed Felix Auger-Aliassime escaped the carnage and posted a 6-3, 6-3 win over Moroccan wild card Elliot Benchetrit.

Auger-Aliassime, ranked ninth in the world, hit six aces and saved all six break points he faced.

Other winners Tuesday included Dutch sixth seed Botic van de Zandschulp, Serbian eighth seed Laslo Djere, Spain's Robert Carballes Baena and Carlos Taberner, France's Richard Gasquet, Slovakia`s Alex Molcan and Tunisia's Malek Jaziri.

Nick Kyrgios of Australia used three sets to defeat American Mackenzie McDonald 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 Tuesday in the first round of the Fayez Sarofim & Co. U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship in Houston.

Nick Kyrgios of Australia used three sets to defeat American Mackenzie McDonald 4-6, 6-3, 6-4 Tuesday in the first round of the Fayez Sarofim & Co. U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship in Houston. Playing as a wild card, Kyrgios earned his first win on clay since 2019. He most recently made a stellar run at the Miami Open but was fined $35,000 for unsportsmanlike behavior during his Round of 16 defeat. American wild card J.J. Wolf knocked off countryman and eighth seed Jenson Brooksby 6-4, 6-4. Wolf dialed up four aces and won three of six break-point opportunities against Brooksby. Chilean fifth seed Cristian Garin came back to beat American wild-card entrant Jack Sock 4-6, 6-3, 7-5, while sixth-seeded Frances Tiafoe defeated U.S. countryman Marcos Giron 6-4, 6-4. ALSO READ: Planning to play the Masters, says star golfer Tiger Woods after car crash No. 7 seed Tommy Paul of the United States won when German opponent Peter Gojowczyk retired in the third set. Other winners Tuesday included Dutch qualifier Gijs Brouwer, Australia's Jordan Thompson, Uruguay's Pablo Cuevas, Chile's Alejandro Tabilo and Americans Steve Johnson, Sam Querrey and qualifier Mitchell Krueger. Grand Prix Hassan II No. 2 seed Daniel Evans, No. 4 seed Albert Ramos-Vinolas, No. 5 seed Federico Delbonis and No. 7 seed Alejandro Davidovich Fokina all lost on the opening day at Marrakech, Morocco. Spain's Pablo Andujar upset Great Britain`s Evans 6-4, 6-2, despite Evans saving 12 of 17 breakpoints. Italian Lorenzo Musetti took down Spaniard Ramos-Vinolas 7-6 (5), 6-1. ALSO READ: FIH Junior World Cup: Mumtaz Khan's hat-trick powers India to emphatic 4-0 win over Malaysia, face Korea in QF Portugal's Joao Sousa beat Delbonis 6-2, 5-7, 6-3 in two hours, 28 minutes, and Argentina's Federico Coria beat Spniard Davidovich 7-5, 3-6, 6-4. Canadian top seed Felix Auger-Aliassime escaped the carnage and posted a 6-3, 6-3 win over Moroccan wild card Elliot Benchetrit. Auger-Aliassime, ranked ninth in the world, hit six aces and saved all six break points he faced. Other winners Tuesday included Dutch sixth seed Botic van de Zandschulp, Serbian eighth seed Laslo Djere, Spain's Robert Carballes Baena and Carlos Taberner, France's Richard Gasquet, Slovakia`s Alex Molcan and Tunisia's Malek Jaziri.

Nick Kyrgios defeats Mackenzie McDonald in opening round of U.S. Men's Clay Court Championship in Houston

Three members of the AUKUS alliance Britain, United States and Australia have agreed on a new defense pact under a new trilateral cooperation. The three nations will jointly begin collaborating on hypersonic and counter hypersonic weapons as well as electronic warfare capabilities.

Hypersonic weapons deal: New defence pact by US, UK, Australia; China warns against fuelling crisis

India and Australia have signed a key trade agreement. India is going to benefit from labour-intensive industries. Long-awaited free trade agreement to be signed.

India-Australia sign key trade agreement: Long-awaited free trade agreement to be signed

Skipper Babar Azam smashed his second successive hundred as Pakistan thrashed Australia by nine wickets in the final one-dayer to claim a 2-1 series victory on Saturday. 
 
The foundation of the win was laid by Pakistan`s fiery pace trio of Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim and Shaheen Afridi who bundled out Australia for 210 inside 42 overs. 
 
Babar smashed an unbeaten 105 and opener Imam-ul-Haq made 89 not out as they made light work of the meagre chase to guide Pakistan home with 12.2 overs to spare.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ms-dhoni-celebrates-anniversary-of-icc-world-cup-2011-win-with-csk-teammates-467785" hreflang="en">MS Dhoni celebrates anniversary of ICC World Cup 2011 win with CSK teammates</a> 
 
Australia, put into bat, got off to a horror start when they slumped to six for three. 
 
Shaheen (2-40) removed in-form Travis Head with the first ball of the match before Haris (3-39) dismissed Aaron Finch and Marnus Labuschagne in quick succession. 
 
Alex Carey (56) top-scored for the tourists and Ben McDermott (36), Sean Abbott (49) and Cameron Green (34) helped them pass the 200-mark but the Australia bowlers had little to defend.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tom-latham-breaks-sachin-tendulkars-24-year-old-record-with-ton-against-netherlands-467779" hreflang="en">Latham breaks Tendulkar's 24-year-old record with ton against Netherlands</a> 
 
Nathan Ellis removed Fakhar Zaman for 17 but Imam and Babar ensured there was no dramatic batting collapse that would allow Australia back into the contest. 
 
Babar, who forged an unbroken 190-run partnership with Imam, hit 12 boundaries in his 16th ODI century. 
 
Australia, who won the three-test series 1-0, will conclude their first tour of Pakistan in 24 years with a one-off Twenty20 match, also in Lahore, on Tuesday.

Skipper Babar Azam smashed his second successive hundred as Pakistan thrashed Australia by nine wickets in the final one-dayer to claim a 2-1 series victory on Saturday.

Skipper Babar Azam smashed his second successive hundred as Pakistan thrashed Australia by nine wickets in the final one-dayer to claim a 2-1 series victory on Saturday. The foundation of the win was laid by Pakistan`s fiery pace trio of Haris Rauf, Mohammad Wasim and Shaheen Afridi who bundled out Australia for 210 inside 42 overs. Babar smashed an unbeaten 105 and opener Imam-ul-Haq made 89 not out as they made light work of the meagre chase to guide Pakistan home with 12.2 overs to spare. Also read | MS Dhoni celebrates anniversary of ICC World Cup 2011 win with CSK teammates Australia, put into bat, got off to a horror start when they slumped to six for three. Shaheen (2-40) removed in-form Travis Head with the first ball of the match before Haris (3-39) dismissed Aaron Finch and Marnus Labuschagne in quick succession. Alex Carey (56) top-scored for the tourists and Ben McDermott (36), Sean Abbott (49) and Cameron Green (34) helped them pass the 200-mark but the Australia bowlers had little to defend. Also read | Latham breaks Tendulkar's 24-year-old record with ton against Netherlands Nathan Ellis removed Fakhar Zaman for 17 but Imam and Babar ensured there was no dramatic batting collapse that would allow Australia back into the contest. Babar, who forged an unbroken 190-run partnership with Imam, hit 12 boundaries in his 16th ODI century. Australia, who won the three-test series 1-0, will conclude their first tour of Pakistan in 24 years with a one-off Twenty20 match, also in Lahore, on Tuesday.

Babar Azam ton leads Pakistan to ODI series victory over Australia

Manchester United will face rivals Liverpool as part of their pre-season tour to Thailand and Australia in July, the Premier League club announced on Thursday.

United will meet Liverpool in Bangkok on July 12 before flying to Australia to play A-League team Melbourne Victory on July 15 and Crystal Palace four days later.

The popular Melbourne Cricket Ground will host those matches.

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"It has been two years since the club has been able to travel on an international pre-season tour, so we can’t wait to get going this summer and reconnect with our fans in south-east Asia and Australasia," said chief operating officer Collette Roche.

United are sixth in the Premier League on 50 points after 29 matches. They host Leicester City on Saturday.

Manchester United will face rivals Liverpool as part of their pre-season tour to Thailand and Australia in July, the Premier League club announced on Thursday. United will meet Liverpool in Bangkok on July 12 before flying to Australia to play A-League team Melbourne Victory on July 15 and Crystal Palace four days later.

Manchester United will face rivals Liverpool as part of their pre-season tour to Thailand and Australia in July, the Premier League club announced on Thursday. United will meet Liverpool in Bangkok on July 12 before flying to Australia to play A-League team Melbourne Victory on July 15 and Crystal Palace four days later. The popular Melbourne Cricket Ground will host those matches. ALSO READ: David Beckham and family left ‘shaken’ after burglary at £40m London mansion "It has been two years since the club has been able to travel on an international pre-season tour, so we can’t wait to get going this summer and reconnect with our fans in south-east Asia and Australasia," said chief operating officer Collette Roche. United are sixth in the Premier League on 50 points after 29 matches. They host Leicester City on Saturday.

Manchester United to face arch-rivals Liverpool on pre-season tour to Thailand, Australia

Australia is facing severe floods again after intense spells of rain. Businesses are devastated in Byron Bay due to natural calamity.

Australia faces severe floods again: Businesses are devastated in Byron Bay

The&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands' prime minister Tuesday rebuked Australian fears a draft&nbsp;security&nbsp;pact between his country and&nbsp;China&nbsp;that leaked online last week would "destabilise" the South Pacific.

In an impassioned speech, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said he found it "very&nbsp;insulting... to be branded as unfit to manage our sovereign affairs or have other motives in pursuing our national interest".

The proposals in the leaked draft agreement would allow Chinese&nbsp;security&nbsp;and naval deployments to the Pacific island nation, a development that sent shockwaves through Canberra last week.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealands-prime-minister-ardern-says-solomon-islands-china-deal-gravely-concerning-466244">New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda&nbsp;Ardern&nbsp;says Solomon Islands-China deal 'gravely concerning'</a>

Sogavare said the pact was yet to be signed but confirmed that his government and counterparts in Beijing had reached agreement on the shape of the&nbsp;deal, although he offered no details.

While existing&nbsp;security&nbsp;arrangements with Australia would "remain intact", Sogavare said that "to achieve our&nbsp;security&nbsp;needs, it is clear that we need to diversify the country's relationship with other countries -- and what is wrong with that?"

The prospect of a Chinese naval base in the South Pacific has long been a concern for Australia and the United States because it would allow Beijing to project power deep into the region.

"We would be concerned by any actions that destabilise the&nbsp;security&nbsp;of our region," Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement last week.

But Sogavare labelled concern from "many leaders" about&nbsp;China's presence threatening regional&nbsp;security&nbsp;in the Pacific as "unfortunate perceptions".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-concern-over-china-solomon-islands-deal-australian-prime-minister-465614">'Great concern' over China-Solomon Islands deal: Australian PM Scott Morrison</a>

The&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;were rocked by unrest last November when protesters tried to storm the parliament and then went on a deadly three-day rampage, torching much of Chinatown in the capital of Honiara.

More than 200 peacekeepers from Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand were deployed to restore calm and Sogavare managed to avoid being deposed.&nbsp;

The riots were sparked by a range of tensions, including opposition to Sogavare's rule, inter-island rivalries and high unemployment, but anti-China&nbsp;sentiment also played a key role.

Leaders on the most populous island of Malaita fiercely oppose Sogavare's decision to shift diplomatic ties from Taiwan to Beijing in 2019, a switch that became a lightning rod for broader frustration about Chinese investment in the Pacific island nation.

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: A Chinese military base in the pacific?

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The Solomon Islands' prime minister Tuesday rebuked Australian fears a draft security pact between his country and China that leaked online last week would "destabilise" the South Pacific.

The Solomon Islands' prime minister Tuesday rebuked Australian fears a draft security pact between his country and China that leaked online last week would "destabilise" the South Pacific. In an impassioned speech, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare said he found it "very insulting... to be branded as unfit to manage our sovereign affairs or have other motives in pursuing our national interest". The proposals in the leaked draft agreement would allow Chinese security and naval deployments to the Pacific island nation, a development that sent shockwaves through Canberra last week. Also read | New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says Solomon Islands-China deal 'gravely concerning' Sogavare said the pact was yet to be signed but confirmed that his government and counterparts in Beijing had reached agreement on the shape of the deal, although he offered no details. While existing security arrangements with Australia would "remain intact", Sogavare said that "to achieve our security needs, it is clear that we need to diversify the country's relationship with other countries -- and what is wrong with that?" The prospect of a Chinese naval base in the South Pacific has long been a concern for Australia and the United States because it would allow Beijing to project power deep into the region. "We would be concerned by any actions that destabilise the security of our region," Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs said in a statement last week. But Sogavare labelled concern from "many leaders" about China's presence threatening regional security in the Pacific as "unfortunate perceptions". Also read | 'Great concern' over China-Solomon Islands deal: Australian PM Scott Morrison The Solomon Islands were rocked by unrest last November when protesters tried to storm the parliament and then went on a deadly three-day rampage, torching much of Chinatown in the capital of Honiara. More than 200 peacekeepers from Australia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand were deployed to restore calm and Sogavare managed to avoid being deposed. The riots were sparked by a range of tensions, including opposition to Sogavare's rule, inter-island rivalries and high unemployment, but anti-China sentiment also played a key role. Leaders on the most populous island of Malaita fiercely oppose Sogavare's decision to shift diplomatic ties from Taiwan to Beijing in 2019, a switch that became a lightning rod for broader frustration about Chinese investment in the Pacific island nation. Watch | Gravitas: A Chinese military base in the pacific?

Solomon Islands' PM calls China security deal backlash 'insulting'

A breed of sheep named 'Southdown' is in high demand in Australia. This breed of miniature sheep originates from Sussex hill in England and are very rare in Australia.

Southdown breed of Sheep gains popularity in Australia

Gender inequality is entrenched in the gig economy, revealed a new report, which was commissioned by the Victorian government in Australia. &nbsp;

Women have been earning up to 37% less than men, found the report released on Monday. It was produced by a research team of Queensland University of Technology.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/being-male-stuck-on-mobile-phone-can-be-risky-on-scotlands-mountains-says-expert-466268" hreflang="en">Being male, stuck on mobile phone can be risky on Scotland’s mountains, says expert</a>

While summarising Australian and global studies, the report found the gig economy can “both reproduce and exacerbate existing gender inequalities in work”. &nbsp;

In Australia, women in gig economy roles earn from 10% to 37% less than men, as per the report. &nbsp;

On an average, men earned $2.67 per hour more than women for the same work. About 40% gig economy workers do not know what their hourly rate is. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Australia bears brunt of climate change, authorities confirm mass bleaching event

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In 2018, the Victorian government established an inquiry into the on-demand workforce. It has also accepted all 20 recommendations, which were made in the report, either fully or in principle. It includes developing standards on fair conditions and pay. &nbsp;

Industrial Relations Minister Tim Pallas said, “The gig economy can be a winner for workers, but for too many people – including many women – platform work can fail them on the test of fairness. We’re working to improve conditions in Victoria.” &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Gender inequality is entrenched in the gig economy, revealed a new report, which was commissioned by the Victorian government in Australia. Women have been earning up to 37% less than men, found the report released on Monday.

Gender inequality is entrenched in the gig economy, revealed a new report, which was commissioned by the Victorian government in Australia. Women have been earning up to 37% less than men, found the report released on Monday. It was produced by a research team of Queensland University of Technology. Also Read: Being male, stuck on mobile phone can be risky on Scotland’s mountains, says expert While summarising Australian and global studies, the report found the gig economy can “both reproduce and exacerbate existing gender inequalities in work”. In Australia, women in gig economy roles earn from 10% to 37% less than men, as per the report. On an average, men earned $2.67 per hour more than women for the same work. About 40% gig economy workers do not know what their hourly rate is. Watch: Australia bears brunt of climate change, authorities confirm mass bleaching event × In 2018, the Victorian government established an inquiry into the on-demand workforce. It has also accepted all 20 recommendations, which were made in the report, either fully or in principle. It includes developing standards on fair conditions and pay. Industrial Relations Minister Tim Pallas said, “The gig economy can be a winner for workers, but for too many people – including many women – platform work can fail them on the test of fairness. We’re working to improve conditions in Victoria.” (With inputs from agencies)

In gig economy, women earn 37% less than men in Australia’s Victoria

Authorities have confirmed the mass bleaching event and said, "the Great Barrier Reef has been hit by a bleaching event because of heat stress".

Australia bears brunt of climate change, authorities confirm mass bleaching event

Australia&nbsp;Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday there was "great concern" across the Pacific after the Solomon Islands confirmed it was creating a security partnership with&nbsp;China.

The Pacific island nation on Friday said it was expanding ties with&nbsp;China&nbsp;to combat security threats and ensure a safe environment for investment as it diversifies security relations.

A potential&nbsp;China&nbsp;security pact with&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Island has sparked concerns among US&nbsp;allies&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;and New Zealand about Chinese influence a region where they have for decades held strong sway.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-great-barrier-reef-suffers-sixth-mass-bleaching-event-465452">Australia's Great Barrier Reef suffers sixth mass bleaching event</a>

Asked by reporters in Sydney about the matter, Morrison said "there is great concern across the Pacific family because we are in constant contact with our Pacific family".

"I will be in further discussions with leaders&nbsp;over&nbsp;the course of this weekend, there was a meeting yesterday with our head of mission and Prime Minister (Manasseh) Sogavare," he said.

Morrison said Sogavare on Friday indicated to Canberra that he appreciated&nbsp;Australia's ongoing support for the Solomon&nbsp;Islands.

"We are the&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands' single largest development partner, daylight second, third, fourth," Morrison said.

Australia&nbsp;has previously expressed concern about the impact on regional security of military cooperation between&nbsp;China&nbsp;and the Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;after a draft document outlining the proposed cooperation was leaked this week.

Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unsettling-influences-australia-reacts-sharply-to-chinese-military-moves-in-solomon-islands-465323">&nbsp;Unsettling influences: Australia reacts sharply to Chinese military moves in Solomon Islands&nbsp;</a>

On Thursday, a&nbsp;Solomon&nbsp;Islands&nbsp;official told Reuters a security&nbsp;deal&nbsp;with&nbsp;China&nbsp;covering the military would be sent to its cabinet for consideration. The&nbsp;Solomons has already signed a policing&nbsp;deal&nbsp;with&nbsp;China.

Solomon&nbsp;Islands, a small island nation around 2,000 km (1,240 miles) northeast of&nbsp;Australia, switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan in 2019, signalling&nbsp;China's growing influence in the Pacific.

Washington last month said it would open an embassy in nation's the capital Honiara amid fears&nbsp;China&nbsp;was seeking to strengthen military relations there.

Watch |&nbsp;Australia bears brunt of climate change, authorities confirm mass bleaching event

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Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday there was "great concern" across the Pacific after the Solomon Islands confirmed it was creating a security partnership with China.

Australia Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Saturday there was "great concern" across the Pacific after the Solomon Islands confirmed it was creating a security partnership with China. The Pacific island nation on Friday said it was expanding ties with China to combat security threats and ensure a safe environment for investment as it diversifies security relations. A potential China security pact with Solomon Island has sparked concerns among US allies Australia and New Zealand about Chinese influence a region where they have for decades held strong sway. Also read | Australia's Great Barrier Reef suffers sixth mass bleaching event Asked by reporters in Sydney about the matter, Morrison said "there is great concern across the Pacific family because we are in constant contact with our Pacific family". "I will be in further discussions with leaders over the course of this weekend, there was a meeting yesterday with our head of mission and Prime Minister (Manasseh) Sogavare," he said. Morrison said Sogavare on Friday indicated to Canberra that he appreciated Australia's ongoing support for the Solomon Islands. "We are the Solomon Islands' single largest development partner, daylight second, third, fourth," Morrison said. Australia has previously expressed concern about the impact on regional security of military cooperation between China and the Solomon Islands after a draft document outlining the proposed cooperation was leaked this week. Also read | Unsettling influences: Australia reacts sharply to Chinese military moves in Solomon Islands On Thursday, a Solomon Islands official told Reuters a security deal with China covering the military would be sent to its cabinet for consideration. The Solomons has already signed a policing deal with China. Solomon Islands, a small island nation around 2,000 km (1,240 miles) northeast of Australia, switched diplomatic recognition to Beijing from Taiwan in 2019, signalling China's growing influence in the Pacific. Washington last month said it would open an embassy in nation's the capital Honiara amid fears China was seeking to strengthen military relations there. Watch | Australia bears brunt of climate change, authorities confirm mass bleaching event

'Great concern' over China-Solomon Islands deal: Australian PM Scott Morrison

After a wide-ranging proposed security agreement between Beijing and Honiara was leaked online, Australia's defence minister said on Friday that any move to construct a Chinese military base in the Solomon Islands would be a cause for concern.

The plans, which must be approved by the Solomon Islands' cabinet, would allow China to deploy security and navy forces to the Pacific island nation.&nbsp;

Australia is concerned about a proposed security pact between China and the Solomon Islands, which may provide a safe harbour for Chinese navy warships nearly 2,000 kilometres (1,243 miles) from Australia's mainland.

A copy of the agreement was distributed on social media by a New Zealand academic on Thursday, prompting the ministers to speak out.

The Australian Broadcasting Corporation confirmed the document's authenticity, although it's unknown how far the talks have progressed.&nbsp;

In an interview with Channel Nine, Defence Minister Peter Dutton said in an interview that Australia had 50 police in the Solomon Islands at the request of Honiara and that they would remain there until 2023.

"We would be concerned, clearly, at any military base being established and we would express that to the Solomon Islands government," he said.

"We want peace and stability in the region. We don't want unsettling influences and we don't want pressure and coercion that we are seeing from China continuing to roll out in the region."

The Solomon Islands would be able to request Chinese military aid in the event of a disaster or political disturbance, while Beijing would be permitted to "perform ship visits to, carry out logistical replenishment in, and have stopovers in" the Solomon Islands, according to the paper.&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Gravitas: China gets another military base in Tajikistan

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In the last decade, China has increased its footprint in the Pacific as part of its global outreach to poor countries to strengthen economic and security connections. 
 
Watch | Gravitas: Chinese bribes triggered a riot in this country

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In recent years, the Solomon Islands administration, led by Prime Minister Mannesseh Sogavare, has deepened ties with Beijing, including a disputed decision in September 2019 to switch the country's diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After a wide-ranging proposed security agreement between Beijing and Honiara was leaked online, Australia's defence minister said on Friday that any move to construct a Chinese military base in the Solomon Islands would be a cause for concern.

After a wide-ranging proposed security agreement between Beijing and Honiara was leaked online, Australia's defence minister said on Friday that any move to construct a Chinese military base in the Solomon Islands would be a cause for concern. The plans, which must be approved by the Solomon Islands' cabinet, would allow China to deploy security and navy forces to the Pacific island nation. Australia is concerned about a proposed security pact between China and the Solomon Islands, which may provide a safe harbour for Chinese navy warships nearly 2,000 kilometres (1,243 miles) from Australia's mainland. A copy of the agreement was distributed on social media by a New Zealand academic on Thursday, prompting the ministers to speak out. The Australian Broadcasting Corporation confirmed the document's authenticity, although it's unknown how far the talks have progressed. In an interview with Channel Nine, Defence Minister Peter Dutton said in an interview that Australia had 50 police in the Solomon Islands at the request of Honiara and that they would remain there until 2023. "We would be concerned, clearly, at any military base being established and we would express that to the Solomon Islands government," he said. "We want peace and stability in the region. We don't want unsettling influences and we don't want pressure and coercion that we are seeing from China continuing to roll out in the region." The Solomon Islands would be able to request Chinese military aid in the event of a disaster or political disturbance, while Beijing would be permitted to "perform ship visits to, carry out logistical replenishment in, and have stopovers in" the Solomon Islands, according to the paper. Watch | Gravitas: China gets another military base in Tajikistan In the last decade, China has increased its footprint in the Pacific as part of its global outreach to poor countries to strengthen economic and security connections. Watch | Gravitas: Chinese bribes triggered a riot in this country In recent years, the Solomon Islands administration, led by Prime Minister Mannesseh Sogavare, has deepened ties with Beijing, including a disputed decision in September 2019 to switch the country's diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China. (With inputs from agencies)

Unsettling influences: Australia reacts sharply to Chinese military moves in Solomon Islands

Young activists take climate protest to Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s residence

Students and union officials have gathered outside Australian PM Scott Morrison's House and raised slogans to demand greater action on climate change.

Students' call for climate action grows louder, ask government to divert funding

Abundance of colorful fishes have dropped steadily which is both worrisome and indicating towards coral bleaching.

Fish in Australia's Great Barrier Reef are fading in colour

As oceans continue to warm and corals continue to bleach, fish communities in Australia's Great Barrier Reef are losing their colour, a new study tells.&nbsp;

The study, which is published in Global Change Biology, monitored changes in the fish community colouration and the environment they live in.&nbsp;

The relationship between the colouration of the fish communities and the environment is likely to be impacted by global environmental change. The researchers have found potential links between corals and fish that are losing their natural colour.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/i-love-my-cool-son-brain-implant-helps-fully-paralysed-man-to-spell-out-thoughts-464964">'I love my cool son': Brain implant helps fully paralysed man to spell out thoughts</a>

The research found that the diversity of colours found within a fish community is directly related to the composition of the local environment.&nbsp;

Areas with a higher cover of structurally complex corals contained fish species with more diverse and brighter colourations, the study revealed.&nbsp;

Important to note that the abundance of yellow and green fish has dropped steadily by about three quarters over the past 27 years as fish community colouration contracted significantly in the years following the 1998 global coral bleaching event.&nbsp;

ALSI READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/what-do-those-meowing-and-neighing-mean-will-artificial-intelligence-tell-us-how-animals-communicate-464900">What do those meowing and neighing mean? Will artificial intelligence tell us how animals communicate?</a>

"We found that as the cover of structurally complex corals increases on a reef, so does the diversity and range of colours present on fishes living in and around them," Dr Christopher Hemingson said as quoted by Daily Mail.&nbsp;

The new study was led by Dr Hemingson at James Cook University in Townsville, Queensland, Australia.&nbsp;

Dr Hemingson said, "But, as the cover of turf algae and dead coral rubble increases, the diversity of colours declines to a more generalised, uniform appearance."&nbsp;

"Fish communities on future reefs may very well be a duller version of their previous configurations, even if coral cover remains high," he added.&nbsp;

Recently, reports revealed that the Great Barrier Reef has again been hit with "widespread" bleaching as higher-than-average ocean temperatures off Australia's northeast threaten the already struggling World Heritage site.&nbsp;

Surveillance flights over the reef revealed damage due to heat stress ranging from minor to severe bleaching across the 2,300-kilometre (1,243-mile) network of corals, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority said.&nbsp;

As oceans continue to warm and corals continue to bleach, fish communities in Australia's Great Barrier Reef are losing their colour, a new study tells. The study, which is published in Global Change Biology, monitored changes in the fish community colouration and the environment they live in.

As oceans continue to warm and corals continue to bleach, fish communities in Australia's Great Barrier Reef are losing their colour, a new study tells. The study, which is published in Global Change Biology, monitored changes in the fish community colouration and the environment they live in. The relationship between the colouration of the fish communities and the environment is likely to be impacted by global environmental change. The researchers have found potential links between corals and fish that are losing their natural colour. ALSO READ | 'I love my cool son': Brain implant helps fully paralysed man to spell out thoughts The research found that the diversity of colours found within a fish community is directly related to the composition of the local environment. Areas with a higher cover of structurally complex corals contained fish species with more diverse and brighter colourations, the study revealed. Important to note that the abundance of yellow and green fish has dropped steadily by about three quarters over the past 27 years as fish community colouration contracted significantly in the years following the 1998 global coral bleaching event. ALSI READ | What do those meowing and neighing mean? Will artificial intelligence tell us how animals communicate? "We found that as the cover of structurally complex corals increases on a reef, so does the diversity and range of colours present on fishes living in and around them," Dr Christopher Hemingson said as quoted by Daily Mail. The new study was led by Dr Hemingson at James Cook University in Townsville, Queensland, Australia. Dr Hemingson said, "But, as the cover of turf algae and dead coral rubble increases, the diversity of colours declines to a more generalised, uniform appearance." "Fish communities on future reefs may very well be a duller version of their previous configurations, even if coral cover remains high," he added. Recently, reports revealed that the Great Barrier Reef has again been hit with "widespread" bleaching as higher-than-average ocean temperatures off Australia's northeast threaten the already struggling World Heritage site. Surveillance flights over the reef revealed damage due to heat stress ranging from minor to severe bleaching across the 2,300-kilometre (1,243-mile) network of corals, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority said.

Fish in Australia's Great Barrier Reef are 'fading' in colour

Climate change is now the greatest threat to the future and security of Australia. The warning comes from the senior defense figures in Australia.

Australia: Senior defence members raise climate alarm

Farmers strive to put Australia's produce on the map. They have launched crocodile food trail that is basically a self-driven trail through 46 farms.

Aussies hope to boost business by way of Australia's crocodile food trail

Indian PM Narendra Modi held virtual talks with his Australian counterpart PM Scott Morrison. New initiatives for the partnership were announced.

Second India-Australia Bilateral Summit: India, Australia discuss Economic cooperation

Police in Australia has confirmed on Tuesday that Gareth Ward (40), a state MP from Australia's New South Wales (NSW) has been charged with sexually abusing a man and a teenage boy.

Ward has been a former state minister.

According to the police, he has been charged with three counts of assault with an act of indecency and one count of sexual intercourse without consent and common assault.

The crimes were committed between 2013 and 2015 with a 27-year-old man and a 17-year-old being the survivors of sexual assault, as per the charges.

"Police will allege in court that the man indecently assaulted a 17-year-old boy at Meroo Meadow in February 2013, and sexually abused a 27-year-old man in Sydney in September 2015," said New South Wale Police on their website.

The statement further said that Ward had been granted conditional bail and that he was due to appear in court on May 18, 2022.

Ward has denied the allegations.

"I will be instructing my lawyers to seek to bring this matter before the courts as quickly as possible and I look forward to demonstrating my innocence there," he said on Tuesday in a statement as quoted by theh Independent.

“While others have already attempted to prosecute my case in the media rather than the courts, out of respect for our system of justice I will not be doing the same."

“Accordingly, I will be making no further comment at this time.”

Police in Australia has confirmed on Tuesday that Gareth Ward (40), a state MP from Australia's New South Wales (NSW) has been charged with sexually abusing a man and a teenage boy.

Police in Australia has confirmed on Tuesday that Gareth Ward (40), a state MP from Australia's New South Wales (NSW) has been charged with sexually abusing a man and a teenage boy. Ward has been a former state minister. According to the police, he has been charged with three counts of assault with an act of indecency and one count of sexual intercourse without consent and common assault. The crimes were committed between 2013 and 2015 with a 27-year-old man and a 17-year-old being the survivors of sexual assault, as per the charges. "Police will allege in court that the man indecently assaulted a 17-year-old boy at Meroo Meadow in February 2013, and sexually abused a 27-year-old man in Sydney in September 2015," said New South Wale Police on their website. The statement further said that Ward had been granted conditional bail and that he was due to appear in court on May 18, 2022. Ward has denied the allegations. "I will be instructing my lawyers to seek to bring this matter before the courts as quickly as possible and I look forward to demonstrating my innocence there," he said on Tuesday in a statement as quoted by theh Independent. “While others have already attempted to prosecute my case in the media rather than the courts, out of respect for our system of justice I will not be doing the same." “Accordingly, I will be making no further comment at this time.”

Australia: Sexual abuse charges slapped against state MP Gareth Ward 

Giving financial advice can be risky in Australia. Well, we are not kidding, it's absolutely true. &nbsp;&nbsp;

If rules are not followed while giving financial advice, an influencer can face up to five years in jail in Australia, a new information sheet has warned. &nbsp;

There is a need to have a licence to give such advice, said the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/to-show-coolness-orangutans-like-humans-use-slang-says-study-464507" hreflang="en">To show coolness, orangutans like humans use slang, says study</a>

Around 33% people from the age group of 18 to 21 years follow financial influencers, as per a 2021 ASIC survey. &nbsp;

Not just this, it also found that 64% young people in Australia altered a financial behaviour due to an influencer. &nbsp;

It was crucial that "influencers who discuss financial products and services online comply with the financial services laws. If they don't, they risk substantial penalties and put investors at risk," said ASIC commissioner Cathie Armour. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-australia-virtual-summit-both-countries-firm-up-series-of-initiatives-to-boost-ties-464458" hreflang="en">India-Australia virtual summit: Both countries firm up series of initiatives to boost ties</a>

Aleks Nikolic, who posts about financial investment on several social media platforms but dislikes the label influencer, told the Guardian that the information sheet was very useful. &nbsp;

"I think it's some of their clearest and best comms they've ever put out, potentially ever. Obviously, everyone will now madly scramble to become compliant, but that was the point," Nikolic said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Giving financial advice can be risky in Australia. Well, we are not kidding, it's absolutely true. If rules are not followed while giving financial advice, an influencer can face up to five years in jail in Australia, a new information sheet has warned.

Giving financial advice can be risky in Australia. Well, we are not kidding, it's absolutely true. If rules are not followed while giving financial advice, an influencer can face up to five years in jail in Australia, a new information sheet has warned. There is a need to have a licence to give such advice, said the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC). Also Read: To show coolness, orangutans like humans use slang, says study Around 33% people from the age group of 18 to 21 years follow financial influencers, as per a 2021 ASIC survey. Not just this, it also found that 64% young people in Australia altered a financial behaviour due to an influencer. It was crucial that "influencers who discuss financial products and services online comply with the financial services laws. If they don't, they risk substantial penalties and put investors at risk," said ASIC commissioner Cathie Armour. Also Read: India-Australia virtual summit: Both countries firm up series of initiatives to boost ties Aleks Nikolic, who posts about financial investment on several social media platforms but dislikes the label influencer, told the Guardian that the information sheet was very useful. "I think it's some of their clearest and best comms they've ever put out, potentially ever. Obviously, everyone will now madly scramble to become compliant, but that was the point," Nikolic said. (With inputs from agencies)

Giving financial advice as influencer in Australia? Follow rules or face prison

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