<p>Australia`s national cabinet will begin meeting twice a week from Monday, marking a return to a "war footing" in the country`s battle against the coronavirus pandemic amid turmoil in its national vaccination programme.<br />
<br />
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday the return to more frequent meetings of the group of federal and state government leaders was necessary to address "serious challenges" caused by patchy international vaccine supplies and changing medical advice.<br />
<br />
"This is a complex task and there are problems with the programme that we need to solve to ensure more Australians can be vaccinated safely and more quickly," Morrison said in a statement.<br />
<br />
Australia has fared much better than many other developed countries during the pandemic, with just over 29,400 COVID-19 cases and 910 deaths.<br />
<br />
No new cases have been reported on most days this year and officials have swiftly contained small outbreaks, but the country`s vaccination programme has hit major roadblocks.<br />
<br />
Morrison earlier this week abandoned a target to provide at least one vaccine dose to the country`s near 26 million population by year-end after restricting the rollout of its favoured AstraZeneca vaccine.<br />
<br />
Findings by Europe`s drug regulator of rare cases of blood clots among some adult recipients of the AstraZeneca vaccine were a major blow for Australia as the country had based its immunisation drive largely on that inoculation, with plans to manufacture 50 million doses locally.<br />
<br />
Australian officials overhauled the programme in response, doubling an earlier Pfizer order to 40 million shots and restricting AstraZeneca doses to people under 50.<br />
<br />
The rollout has also been affected by export curbs imposed by the European Union on vaccines as the bloc seeks to shore up its own supplies.<br />
<br />
Trade Minister Dan Tehan is due to travel to Europe this week to seek the release of about 3 million doses of previously promised AstraZeneca vaccines.<br />
<br />
Morrison created a national cabinet of federal, state and territory leaders early last year to coordinate measures to combat the pandemic. There has been sniping in recent weeks between different levels of government about who is responsible for delays in the vaccine rollout.<br />
<br />
The return to twice weekly meetings, the same frequency as at the peak of the crisis last year, would continue for the "foreseeable future", Morrison said, without providing detail on any potential steps to be taken.</p>


Australia`s national cabinet will begin meeting twice a week from Monday, marking a return to a "war footing" in the country`s battle against the coronavirus pandemic amid turmoil in its national vaccination programme.

Australia`s national cabinet will begin meeting twice a week from Monday, marking a return to a "war footing" in the country`s battle against the coronavirus pandemic amid turmoil in its national vaccination programme. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Wednesday the return to more frequent meetings of the group of federal and state government leaders was necessary to address "serious challenges" caused by patchy international vaccine supplies and changing medical advice. "This is a complex task and there are problems with the programme that we need to solve to ensure more Australians can be vaccinated safely and more quickly," Morrison said in a statement. Australia has fared much better than many other developed countries during the pandemic, with just over 29,400 COVID-19 cases and 910 deaths. No new cases have been reported on most days this year and officials have swiftly contained small outbreaks, but the country`s vaccination programme has hit major roadblocks. Morrison earlier this week abandoned a target to provide at least one vaccine dose to the country`s near 26 million population by year-end after restricting the rollout of its favoured AstraZeneca vaccine. Findings by Europe`s drug regulator of rare cases of blood clots among some adult recipients of the AstraZeneca vaccine were a major blow for Australia as the country had based its immunisation drive largely on that inoculation, with plans to manufacture 50 million doses locally. Australian officials overhauled the programme in response, doubling an earlier Pfizer order to 40 million shots and restricting AstraZeneca doses to people under 50. The rollout has also been affected by export curbs imposed by the European Union on vaccines as the bloc seeks to shore up its own supplies. Trade Minister Dan Tehan is due to travel to Europe this week to seek the release of about 3 million doses of previously promised AstraZeneca vaccines. Morrison created a national cabinet of federal, state and territory leaders early last year to coordinate measures to combat the pandemic. There has been sniping in recent weeks between different levels of government about who is responsible for delays in the vaccine rollout. The return to twice weekly meetings, the same frequency as at the peak of the crisis last year, would continue for the "foreseeable future", Morrison said, without providing detail on any potential steps to be taken.

Australia returns to 'war footing' amid COVID-19 vaccine turmoil

Hundreds of people demonstrated in Australia's major cities to protest the deaths of indigenous people in custody. More than 470 aboriginal people have died in custody in three decades.

Australia: Protest against death of indigenous people in custody

<p>Authorities in Western Australia were urging residents of its Mid West coast to find safe shelter or leave on Saturday as cyclone Seroja barrelled towards a coastal region that is usually too far south to fall in the path of cyclones. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Residents in Western Australia's Mid West and Gascoyne regions are being urged to finalise their emergency plans, as the cyclone is expected to intensify to a category three overnight, battering a region where buildings are not made to withstand cyclonic winds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is a very serious situation. The potential for widespread devastation is high," state Emergency Services Minister Fran Logan said on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). &nbsp;</p>

<p>"We hope that we can get through these next few days without loss of life and without serious property damage. We need to work on the basis of worst-case scenario," she said, adding that cyclonic winds had not been seen in the area for decades. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Australia's Bureau of Meteorology forecasts destructive winds with gusts to 150 km per hour (93 miles per hour), and heavy rains that could cause significant damage to coastal communities as the cyclone moves across the coast and further inland.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The most likely area to experience destructive wind gusts is on the coast between Geraldton, 200 km north of Perth, and Denham, 500 km north of Perth. &nbsp;</p>

<p>This area is much further south of Port Hedland, the world's largest iron ore export hub, which withstands several cyclones a season and where houses are built to stronger standards.&nbsp;</p>


Authorities in Western Australia were urging residents of its Mid West coast to find safe shelter or leave on Saturday as cyclone Seroja barrelled towards a coastal region that is usually too far south to fall in the path of cyclones.

Authorities in Western Australia were urging residents of its Mid West coast to find safe shelter or leave on Saturday as cyclone Seroja barrelled towards a coastal region that is usually too far south to fall in the path of cyclones. Residents in Western Australia's Mid West and Gascoyne regions are being urged to finalise their emergency plans, as the cyclone is expected to intensify to a category three overnight, battering a region where buildings are not made to withstand cyclonic winds. "This is a very serious situation. The potential for widespread devastation is high," state Emergency Services Minister Fran Logan said on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC). "We hope that we can get through these next few days without loss of life and without serious property damage. We need to work on the basis of worst-case scenario," she said, adding that cyclonic winds had not been seen in the area for decades. Australia's Bureau of Meteorology forecasts destructive winds with gusts to 150 km per hour (93 miles per hour), and heavy rains that could cause significant damage to coastal communities as the cyclone moves across the coast and further inland. The most likely area to experience destructive wind gusts is on the coast between Geraldton, 200 km north of Perth, and Denham, 500 km north of Perth. This area is much further south of Port Hedland, the world's largest iron ore export hub, which withstands several cyclones a season and where houses are built to stronger standards.

Western Australia braces for 'worst case scenario' as cyclone Seroja nears 

Australia has halted the use of the AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for younger people over blood clots concerns. Officials said the AstraZeneca shot should no longer be given to people under the age of 50, unless they had already received a first dose without any ill effects.

Australia halts AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine for under 50s

In an open letter, 24 scientists and researchers from Europe, the United States, Australia and Japan said the study was tainted by politics.

Scientists call for new probe into Covid-19 origins

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun:yes">&nbsp;</span>Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison has asked the European Union (EU) to allow the shipping of the 3.1 million outstanding AstraZeneca&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccine</a> to Australia.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">Acknowledging the recent reports and rumours, Morrison also said that his government had not made many rosy assessments in front of the public about the state of its coronavirus vaccine rollout.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">While demanding the EU releases the shipping of the vaccines, Morrison also stressed that he had not made any criticism of the EU over its handling of this matter.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-global-death-toll-surpasses-3-million-amid-resurgence-of-infections-375787" hreflang="en">Coronavirus global death toll surpasses 3 million amid resurgence</a></strong></p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The Morrison government had issued a report accusing the European Commission of "arguing semantics" by claiming that the EU had blocked nearly 250,000 doses of the coronavirus vaccine from coming to Australia.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">It also claimed that the commission had hinted about blocking other applications to export vaccine doses from the region too.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">The government also claimed that the EU has failed to respond to any of Australia’s requests for one million AstraZeneca doses to be made available to Papua New Guinea —one of the worst-hit countries in the region.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-mecca-only-vaccine-pilgrims-allowed-375780"><strong>Watch |</strong></a></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-mecca-only-vaccine-pilgrims-allowed-375780/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p class="MsoNormal">"I can assure you that the first million of those will be used to support the humanitarian effort that we're putting in place for Papua New Guinea," Morrison said.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">However, Scott Morrison has denied blaming the EU for the shortfall of the vaccine in Australia. "I want to stress that at no time yesterday did I make any comment about the actions of the European Union,"&nbsp;he told the reporters. "Any suggestion that I, in any way, made any criticism of the European Union yesterday would be completely incorrect."</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">His statement came after Morrison claimed that nearly 3.1 million doses of vaccine had not come through due to EU’s block.</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">"It's straightforward maths. 3.1 million out of 3.8 million doses did not come to Australia,"&nbsp;he said. "That obviously had a very significant impact on the early rollout of the vaccination program."</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">He has stressed that there is no conflict between Australia and the EU. "I mean, all I’ve simply done today is set out very clearly that 3.1 million vaccines didn’t arrive in Australia," he said. "It’s not a dispute. It’s not a conflict. It’s not an argument. It’s not a clash. It’s just a simple fact. And I’m simply explaining to the Australian public that supply issues is what’s constraining and has constrained, particularly over the recent months, the overall rollout of the vaccine."</p>

<p class="MsoNormal">&nbsp;</p>

<p class="MsoNormal"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison has asked the European Union (EU) to allow the shipping of the 3.1 million outstanding AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine to Australia.

Australia's Prime Minister Scott Morrison has asked the European Union (EU) to allow the shipping of the 3.1 million outstanding AstraZeneca coronavirus vaccine to Australia. Acknowledging the recent reports and rumours, Morrison also said that his government had not made many rosy assessments in front of the public about the state of its coronavirus vaccine rollout. While demanding the EU releases the shipping of the vaccines, Morrison also stressed that he had not made any criticism of the EU over its handling of this matter. Also read | Coronavirus global death toll surpasses 3 million amid resurgence The Morrison government had issued a report accusing the European Commission of "arguing semantics" by claiming that the EU had blocked nearly 250,000 doses of the coronavirus vaccine from coming to Australia. It also claimed that the commission had hinted about blocking other applications to export vaccine doses from the region too. The government also claimed that the EU has failed to respond to any of Australia’s requests for one million AstraZeneca doses to be made available to Papua New Guinea —one of the worst-hit countries in the region. Watch | "I can assure you that the first million of those will be used to support the humanitarian effort that we're putting in place for Papua New Guinea," Morrison said. However, Scott Morrison has denied blaming the EU for the shortfall of the vaccine in Australia. "I want to stress that at no time yesterday did I make any comment about the actions of the European Union," he told the reporters. "Any suggestion that I, in any way, made any criticism of the European Union yesterday would be completely incorrect." His statement came after Morrison claimed that nearly 3.1 million doses of vaccine had not come through due to EU’s block. "It's straightforward maths. 3.1 million out of 3.8 million doses did not come to Australia," he said. "That obviously had a very significant impact on the early rollout of the vaccination program." He has stressed that there is no conflict between Australia and the EU. "I mean, all I’ve simply done today is set out very clearly that 3.1 million vaccines didn’t arrive in Australia," he said. "It’s not a dispute. It’s not a conflict. It’s not an argument. It’s not a clash. It’s just a simple fact. And I’m simply explaining to the Australian public that supply issues is what’s constraining and has constrained, particularly over the recent months, the overall rollout of the vaccine." (With inputs from agencies)

PM Scott Morrison denies blaming EU for Australia's slow AstraZeneca vaccine rollout

Superbugs, which are popularly known as Anammox bugs are Australia's first home grown bugs. They thrive on waste water particularly which flushes out of our toilet. They have been grown from scratch at a plant in Queensland, Australia.

Australian Superbugs eat sewage, reduces need for chemicals in wastewater plants

<p>A man has been attacked by an octopus while swimming at a picturesque beach in Western Australia.</p>

<p>Geologist and author Lance Karlson was about to take a dip near the resort he and his family were staying at in Geographe Bay, on Australia's southwest coast, when he spotted what he thought was the tail of a stingray emerging from the water and striking a seagull.</p>

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<p>Upon walking closer with his two-year-old daughter, he discovered it was an octopus, and took a video, which shows the animal in shallow water take a sudden strike in Karlson's direction with its tentacles.</p>

<p>"The octopus lashed out at us, which was a real shock," Karlson said in emailed comments to Reuters.</p>

<p>After setting up a sun protection tent for his family on the beach, Karlson put on goggles and went in the water alone to explore a collection of crab shells, which he believed were left by Dead Sea creatures.</p>

<p>As he was swimming, he felt another whip across his arm — followed by a more forceful sting across his neck and upper back.</p>

<p>“My goggles became fogged, the water was suddenly murky and I remember being shocked and confused,” Karlson added in the e-mail.</p>

<p>Karlson said he raced back to shore and saw raised imprints of tentacles across his arm, neck and upper back. Since he did not have vinegar, his preferred treatment for sea animal stings, he poured cola over the affected area, which worked well to stop the stinging.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A man has been attacked by an octopus while swimming at a picturesque beach in Western Australia. Geologist and author Lance Karlson was about to take a dip near the resort he and his family were staying at in Geographe Bay, on Australia's southwest coast, when he spotted what he thought was the tail of a stingray emerging from the water and striking a seagull.

A man has been attacked by an octopus while swimming at a picturesque beach in Western Australia. Geologist and author Lance Karlson was about to take a dip near the resort he and his family were staying at in Geographe Bay, on Australia's southwest coast, when he spotted what he thought was the tail of a stingray emerging from the water and striking a seagull. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lance Karlson • Author (@lancekarlson) × Upon walking closer with his two-year-old daughter, he discovered it was an octopus, and took a video, which shows the animal in shallow water take a sudden strike in Karlson's direction with its tentacles. "The octopus lashed out at us, which was a real shock," Karlson said in emailed comments to Reuters. After setting up a sun protection tent for his family on the beach, Karlson put on goggles and went in the water alone to explore a collection of crab shells, which he believed were left by Dead Sea creatures. As he was swimming, he felt another whip across his arm — followed by a more forceful sting across his neck and upper back. “My goggles became fogged, the water was suddenly murky and I remember being shocked and confused,” Karlson added in the e-mail. Karlson said he raced back to shore and saw raised imprints of tentacles across his arm, neck and upper back. Since he did not have vinegar, his preferred treatment for sea animal stings, he poured cola over the affected area, which worked well to stop the stinging. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: Angry octopus lashes out at geologist in Australia

ASICS, the Australian team's Japanese Olympic kit supplier has been accused of sourcing Chinese forced labour cotton, an allegation that it vehemently denies. It says that none of the cottons for the Aussies has come from Xinjiang.

Australia: ASICS denies reports of using cotton from Xinjiang in Olympic uniforms

Oyster farmer Brett Harper glides over the water to his oyster lease on Tuesday (March 30), checking on what little crop has been left after devastating floods left his business on Australia's Mid North Coast in tatters.

Australian family-run oyster farm decimated by floods, bill in hundreds of thousands

<p>Australia is set to begin building its own guided missiles in collaboration with the United States. The country has not manufactured missiles in decades, and this news comes in as China continues to assert itself in the Pacific region.</p>

<p>Australian Prime Minister cited “changing global environment” and said that they&nbsp;would partner with a weapons manufacturer to produce the missiles, while hoping to generate thousands of jobs. The country intends to spend $761 (1 billion Australian dollars) million on the missiles - part of a huge 10-year investment in defence sectors.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/australian-parliament-sex-scandal-is-cabinet-reshuffle-an-eyewash-374140" hreflang="en">Australian Parliament sex scandal: Is cabinet reshuffle an eyewash?&nbsp;</a></p>

<p>Morrison also claimed that creating “sovereign capability” remains important to protect Australians. Currently, Australia imports missiles from allies like the United States and has decoy rockets to stop incoming missiles.</p>

<p>China’s increasing aggression in the region continues to worry countries. Recently, a group called Quad - made of India, Japan, Australia, and the US met as China’s threats of invasion against Taiwan and other regions get more intense.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/australian-pm-morrisons-approval-rating-falls-to-lowest-in-a-year-373986" hreflang="en">Australian PM Morrison's approval rating falls to lowest in a year</a></p>

<p>Australia is a member of the “Five Eyes” alliance which includes US, Canada, Britain, and New Zealand.</p>

<p>The Australian Strategic Policy Institute had earlier said that Australia would need AU$100 billion over the next two decades on buying missiles and guided weapons.</p>

<p>In the case of conflict, Australia would now depend less on imports and more on domestic manufacturing. A series of frigates and submarines are also under production.</p>


Australia is set to begin building its own guided missiles in collaboration with the United States. The country has not manufactured missiles in decades, and this news comes in as China continues to assert itself in the Pacific region.

Australia is set to begin building its own guided missiles in collaboration with the United States. The country has not manufactured missiles in decades, and this news comes in as China continues to assert itself in the Pacific region. Australian Prime Minister cited “changing global environment” and said that they would partner with a weapons manufacturer to produce the missiles, while hoping to generate thousands of jobs. The country intends to spend $761 (1 billion Australian dollars) million on the missiles - part of a huge 10-year investment in defence sectors. Also read: Australian Parliament sex scandal: Is cabinet reshuffle an eyewash? Morrison also claimed that creating “sovereign capability” remains important to protect Australians. Currently, Australia imports missiles from allies like the United States and has decoy rockets to stop incoming missiles. China’s increasing aggression in the region continues to worry countries. Recently, a group called Quad - made of India, Japan, Australia, and the US met as China’s threats of invasion against Taiwan and other regions get more intense. Also read: Australian PM Morrison's approval rating falls to lowest in a year Australia is a member of the “Five Eyes” alliance which includes US, Canada, Britain, and New Zealand. The Australian Strategic Policy Institute had earlier said that Australia would need AU$100 billion over the next two decades on buying missiles and guided weapons. In the case of conflict, Australia would now depend less on imports and more on domestic manufacturing. A series of frigates and submarines are also under production.

As China threat grows, Australia to build guided missiles with US

Australia's Parliament has been hit by charges of sexual assault. A video has emerged of a man masturbating in the parliament. A whistleblower claims some staff and legislators would swap pictures and videos of sexual acts performed in Parliament.

Gravitas: Australian Parliament hit by sexual misconduct charges

<p>The Australian Parliament has been hit by a series of sexual abuse and misconduct charges. A former staffer claims she was raped in the office of then defence minister. A whistleblower claims some government staff and legislators had created a group to swap pictures and videos of sexual acts performed in the parliament building. What exactly is happening in Australia? &nbsp;</p>

<p>Australian Parliament has a sickening work culture. A govt staff was caught on camera masturbating inside the Parliament building. Reports have emerged of a Facebook group, where staff share images and videos of sexual acts performed in the parliament. &nbsp;</p>

<p>A whistleblower recently shared the videos. He or she also claimed that govt staff and legislators have &nbsp;been using the parliament's prayer room for sex. Sex workers are being brought into the building and female employees are being harassed in the parliament. &nbsp;</p>

<p>One victim went public last month. She claimed she was raped by a senior official in the office of Australia's then-defence minister Linda Reynolds. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Brittany Higgins, speaking on rape allegations, said, "I was raped inside Parliament house by a colleague and for so long it felt like the people around me only cared because of where it happened or what it might mean for them. It was so confusing because these people were my idols. I had dedicated my life to them."&nbsp;</p>

<p>The former defence minister called her a lying cow. The biggest headline maker was Australia's Attorney General Christian Porter. He was revealed of having raped a 16-year-old girl some 33 years ago. The victim took her own life in 2020 reportedly after being denied justice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Scott Morrison's handling of the sexual allegations did not help. His approval ratings tanked while public anger against his govt rose.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A protester, said, "Well, I am sick of it, I'm absolutely sick of listening to sexual assault on the TV and nothing has been done about it."&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Australian Prime Minister is now trying to extinguish the fire. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, said, "Changes, I'm announcing today will once again provide the strongest ever female representation in an Australian government cabinet." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>A cabinet reshuffle is Morrison's way of safeguarding his seat. Both the tainted cabinet members have been removed from office. A women-centric task force has been announced and also what Morrisson calls the strongest ever female representation. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Scott Morrison said, "Women taking up as they must, as they should, as I very much want them to do and as they are so keen to do so."&nbsp;</p>

<p>All of this is just an eyewash. Christian Porter may no longer be the attorney general but he is being reassigned to the ministry to industry and as for Lynda Reynolds, she will become the govt services minister. &nbsp;</p>

<p>If this is not an insult to the victim and if this is not an insult to the system of justice. What is? &nbsp;</p>


The Australian Parliament has been hit by a series of sexual abuse and misconduct charges. A former staffer claims she was raped in the office of then defence minister.

The Australian Parliament has been hit by a series of sexual abuse and misconduct charges. A former staffer claims she was raped in the office of then defence minister. A whistleblower claims some government staff and legislators had created a group to swap pictures and videos of sexual acts performed in the parliament building. What exactly is happening in Australia? Australian Parliament has a sickening work culture. A govt staff was caught on camera masturbating inside the Parliament building. Reports have emerged of a Facebook group, where staff share images and videos of sexual acts performed in the parliament. A whistleblower recently shared the videos. He or she also claimed that govt staff and legislators have been using the parliament's prayer room for sex. Sex workers are being brought into the building and female employees are being harassed in the parliament. One victim went public last month. She claimed she was raped by a senior official in the office of Australia's then-defence minister Linda Reynolds. Brittany Higgins, speaking on rape allegations, said, "I was raped inside Parliament house by a colleague and for so long it felt like the people around me only cared because of where it happened or what it might mean for them. It was so confusing because these people were my idols. I had dedicated my life to them." The former defence minister called her a lying cow. The biggest headline maker was Australia's Attorney General Christian Porter. He was revealed of having raped a 16-year-old girl some 33 years ago. The victim took her own life in 2020 reportedly after being denied justice. Prime Minister Scott Morrison's handling of the sexual allegations did not help. His approval ratings tanked while public anger against his govt rose. A protester, said, "Well, I am sick of it, I'm absolutely sick of listening to sexual assault on the TV and nothing has been done about it." The Australian Prime Minister is now trying to extinguish the fire. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, said, "Changes, I'm announcing today will once again provide the strongest ever female representation in an Australian government cabinet." A cabinet reshuffle is Morrison's way of safeguarding his seat. Both the tainted cabinet members have been removed from office. A women-centric task force has been announced and also what Morrisson calls the strongest ever female representation. Scott Morrison said, "Women taking up as they must, as they should, as I very much want them to do and as they are so keen to do so." All of this is just an eyewash. Christian Porter may no longer be the attorney general but he is being reassigned to the ministry to industry and as for Lynda Reynolds, she will become the govt services minister. If this is not an insult to the victim and if this is not an insult to the system of justice. What is?

Australian Parliament sex scandal: Is cabinet reshuffle an eyewash? 

Australian PM Scott Morrison has demoted two of his cabinet ministers amid rising controversies over sexual misconduct at the workplace.

Australian PM Scott Morrison demotes two ministers

<p>Australia on Sunday ended its pandemic wage subsidy scheme called “JobKeeper”. The scheme initially saw $1,150 (Aus$1500) being paid to employees every fortnight by their employers, and was announced last year after a countrywide lockdown was imposed after COVID-19 case rose.</p>

<p>The scheme came in the aftermath of thousands lining up outside unemployment offices and the country. Even now, many had warned the Australian government that upto 150,000 people could lose their jobs if the scheme was&nbsp;revoked.</p>

<p>Josh Frydenberg, the Treasurer said that the scheme had served as an “economic lifeline” which saved lives and livelihoods over 2020.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/australia-threatens-wto-action-as-china-hikes-duty-on-wine-373556" hreflang="en">Australia threatens WTO action as China hikes duty on wine</a></p>

<p>In addition, he said that the measure was always designed to be “temporary” while acknowledging that many businesses will continue to go through difficult times. Australia’s unemployment rate in July 2020 stood at 7.5 per cent, but fell to 5.8 per cent in February 2021.</p>

<p>Even then, the Treasury estimates between 100,000-150,000 people could lose their jobs as a result of this.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/australia-floods-claim-first-fatality-more-evacuations-as-clean-up-begins-372724" hreflang="en">Australia floods claim first fatality, more evacuations as clean-up begins</a></p>

<p>Michele O’Neil, the president of Australian Council of Trade Unions added how many workers could witness their hours and pay being cut due to the measure. "1.1 million workers face an uncertain future without the JobKeeper wage subsidy, which has prevented catastrophic job losses during the pandemic and is now being ripped away," O’Neil was quoted by AFP as saying.</p>

<p>The scheme was effectively supporting four million people during the peak of the pandemic.</p>


Australia on Sunday ended its pandemic wage subsidy scheme called “JobKeeper”. The scheme initially saw $1,150 (Aus$1500) being paid to employees every fortnight by their employers, and was announced last year after a countrywide lockdown was imposed after COVID-19 case rose.

Australia on Sunday ended its pandemic wage subsidy scheme called “JobKeeper”. The scheme initially saw $1,150 (Aus$1500) being paid to employees every fortnight by their employers, and was announced last year after a countrywide lockdown was imposed after COVID-19 case rose. The scheme came in the aftermath of thousands lining up outside unemployment offices and the country. Even now, many had warned the Australian government that upto 150,000 people could lose their jobs if the scheme was revoked. Josh Frydenberg, the Treasurer said that the scheme had served as an “economic lifeline” which saved lives and livelihoods over 2020. Also read: Australia threatens WTO action as China hikes duty on wine In addition, he said that the measure was always designed to be “temporary” while acknowledging that many businesses will continue to go through difficult times. Australia’s unemployment rate in July 2020 stood at 7.5 per cent, but fell to 5.8 per cent in February 2021. Even then, the Treasury estimates between 100,000-150,000 people could lose their jobs as a result of this. Also read: Australia floods claim first fatality, more evacuations as clean-up begins Michele O’Neil, the president of Australian Council of Trade Unions added how many workers could witness their hours and pay being cut due to the measure. "1.1 million workers face an uncertain future without the JobKeeper wage subsidy, which has prevented catastrophic job losses during the pandemic and is now being ripped away," O’Neil was quoted by AFP as saying. The scheme was effectively supporting four million people during the peak of the pandemic.

Australia ends pandemic wage subsidy scheme, jeopardising over 100,000 jobs

<p>Australia has threatened to take an action against China over its "unjustifiable" decision to hike duties on wine imports for up to five years.</p>

<p>"We will be looking at next steps, and those next steps will include looking at taking this matter to the World Trade Organisation," Australian Trade Minister Dan Tehan said on Saturday.</p>

<p>In the latest salvo between Beijing and Canberra, China's commerce ministry announced levies ranging from 116.2 per cent to 218.4 per cent would be slapped on Australian wine imports from Sunday.</p>

<p>Tehan, to this end, said the tariffs meant it was "basically impossible" for their wine to be competitive in the Chinese market.</p>

<p>"This decision which has been taken by the Chinese government is extremely disappointing and completely unjustifiable," Tehan told reporters in Melbourne.</p>

<p>On Friday, the Chinese commerce ministry said it was imposing the duties after an investigation found "dumping and subsidies on imported wines" from Australia impacted the Chinese market.</p>

<p>Wine exports to China hit a record A$1.3 billion (US$900 million) in 2019, according to Australian government data, making it the biggest market by value for the product.</p>

<p>Late last year, Australia also called for the WTO to investigate Chinese tariffs on barley imports, following a series of economic sanctions or disruptions to Australian products to China's vast market.</p>

<p>Diplomatic relations between the two countries have reached their lowest since the deadly 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown.</p>

<p>Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, speaking in Sydney, accused Beijing of using the tariffs as "retaliation". He added Australia stood with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson after China imposed sanctions on several people in the UK and EU over their vocal support for the Uyghur Muslim minority in Xinjiang, where Beijing is accused of abuses.</p>


Australia has threatened to take an action against China over its "unjustifiable" decision to hike duties on wine imports for up to five years. "We will be looking at next steps, and those next steps will include looking at taking this matter to the World Trade Organisation," Australian Trade Minister Dan Tehan said on Saturday.

Australia has threatened to take an action against China over its "unjustifiable" decision to hike duties on wine imports for up to five years. "We will be looking at next steps, and those next steps will include looking at taking this matter to the World Trade Organisation," Australian Trade Minister Dan Tehan said on Saturday. In the latest salvo between Beijing and Canberra, China's commerce ministry announced levies ranging from 116.2 per cent to 218.4 per cent would be slapped on Australian wine imports from Sunday. Tehan, to this end, said the tariffs meant it was "basically impossible" for their wine to be competitive in the Chinese market. "This decision which has been taken by the Chinese government is extremely disappointing and completely unjustifiable," Tehan told reporters in Melbourne. On Friday, the Chinese commerce ministry said it was imposing the duties after an investigation found "dumping and subsidies on imported wines" from Australia impacted the Chinese market. Wine exports to China hit a record A$1.3 billion (US$900 million) in 2019, according to Australian government data, making it the biggest market by value for the product. Late last year, Australia also called for the WTO to investigate Chinese tariffs on barley imports, following a series of economic sanctions or disruptions to Australian products to China's vast market. Diplomatic relations between the two countries have reached their lowest since the deadly 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, speaking in Sydney, accused Beijing of using the tariffs as "retaliation". He added Australia stood with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson after China imposed sanctions on several people in the UK and EU over their vocal support for the Uyghur Muslim minority in Xinjiang, where Beijing is accused of abuses.

Australia threatens WTO action as China hikes duty on wine

At least two people have been killed as Australia battles its worst flood in over 50 years. Fresh evacuation order has been issued as officials warned that the water level would keep rising in some areas.

At least two killed, 40,000 evacuated as Australia battles its worst flood

Aftermath of disaster: Australians start clean-up after dangerous floods destroy properties

When a barge full of hay approached a semi-submerged rural property in Sydney's outer suburbs on Wednesday (March 24), the horses don't wait for it to be unloaded - they eat it straight off the boat.

Residents deliver hay to hungry horses cut off by floodwater

From rape allegations to sexual misconduct, the Australian parliament is at the centre of a major controversy. What is Scott Morrison's plan to reform this culture? WION's Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Sex scandal rocks Australian Parliament

Floods have ravaged many low-lying regions of Australia. This has prompted the authorities to issue fresh mass evacuation orders. Even after a week, torrential rains continue to cause widespread floods across the region.

Australia Flood: Record rains prompt fresh evacuation orders

<p>The Australian parliament is once again in the news and for all the wrong reasons. After a couple of women came forward to tell their tales of sexual assault within the parliament building, a video has emerged that allegedly showed the staff members performing sexual acts in the offices.</p>

<p>Footage leaked to media allegedly showed a senior aide performing a sex act on a female MP’s desk.&nbsp; The&nbsp;aide has been fired from his position in the Australian parliament.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/twelve-hours-of-hell-couple-gets-married-amid-nsw-floods-372525" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/twelve-hours-of-hell-couple-gets-married-amid-nsw-floods-372525&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjyytbuuMbvAhU-8HMBHf5DDQ8QFjAAegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0zj09bFF9-aZAMS7hbL_Tx" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/twelve-hours-of-hell-couple-gets-married-amid-nsw-floods-372525" target="_blank">Twelve hours of hell: Couple gets married amid NSW floods</a></strong></p>

<p>This video was leaked by a former government staff member, who claims to have become “immune” due to the high volume of such images and videos&nbsp;he had received.</p>

<p>Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has described the new turn of events as “disgraceful”.</p>

<p>The video in question was filmed two years ago. The former government officer also claimed that members of parliament used the prayer room to have sex, and some even brought sex workers into the parliament.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australian-pm-disgusted-by-sex-scandal-in-govt-wants-more-women-in-politics-372532"><strong>Watch |</strong></a></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australian-pm-disgusted-by-sex-scandal-in-govt-wants-more-women-in-politics-372532/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Describing some of the members of parliament as “morally bankrupt”, the whistleblower said the parliament composes of a “culture of men thinking that they can do whatever they want”.</p>

<p>Morrison said he was “shocked” after he got to know about the “disgraceful” video. “We must get this house in order. We must put the politics aside on these things, and we must recognise this problem, acknowledge it, and we must fix it,” he said.</p>

<p>This has come after friends of a&nbsp;victim sent a letter to the authorities alleging she had been sexually assaulted by a senior member of the parliament. Another local, Brittany Higgins, alleged that she was raped by a senior colleague in an office in the Australian parliament in March 2019.</p>

<p>Women in Australia have been trying to fight against these assaults, on behalf of women who feel too threatened to come out and not lose their jobs.</p>

<p>(With inputs from agencies)</p>


The Australian parliament is once again in the news and for all the wrong reasons. After a couple of women came forward to tell their tales of sexual assault within the parliament building, a video has emerged that allegedly showed the staff members performing sexual acts in the offices.

The Australian parliament is once again in the news and for all the wrong reasons. After a couple of women came forward to tell their tales of sexual assault within the parliament building, a video has emerged that allegedly showed the staff members performing sexual acts in the offices. Footage leaked to media allegedly showed a senior aide performing a sex act on a female MP’s desk. The aide has been fired from his position in the Australian parliament. Also read | Twelve hours of hell: Couple gets married amid NSW floods This video was leaked by a former government staff member, who claims to have become “immune” due to the high volume of such images and videos he had received. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has described the new turn of events as “disgraceful”. The video in question was filmed two years ago. The former government officer also claimed that members of parliament used the prayer room to have sex, and some even brought sex workers into the parliament. Watch | Describing some of the members of parliament as “morally bankrupt”, the whistleblower said the parliament composes of a “culture of men thinking that they can do whatever they want”. Morrison said he was “shocked” after he got to know about the “disgraceful” video. “We must get this house in order. We must put the politics aside on these things, and we must recognise this problem, acknowledge it, and we must fix it,” he said. This has come after friends of a victim sent a letter to the authorities alleging she had been sexually assaulted by a senior member of the parliament. Another local, Brittany Higgins, alleged that she was raped by a senior colleague in an office in the Australian parliament in March 2019. Women in Australia have been trying to fight against these assaults, on behalf of women who feel too threatened to come out and not lose their jobs. (With inputs from agencies)

Australian govt rocked by leaked video allegedly showing sex acts in parliament; aide fired

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that he was shocked and disgusted by the latest sex scandal that has hit his government, adding that he wanted more women to join politics.

Australian PM 'disgusted' by sex scandal in govt, wants more women in politics

<p>Everyone hopes their wedding day becomes the most special day of their lives, and probably for everyone else attending the wedding too.</p>

<p>Kate Fotheringham, a resident of New South Wales (NSW) had the same dreams about her big day. However, little did she know that her wedding will become the talk of the town.</p>

<p>On Saturday morning, when Kate woke up excited for her wedding day, she realised she was trapped in her parents' house as the water surrounded the property, leaving no way to step outdoors.</p>

<p><strong>Have a look |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/worst-floods-in-100-years-force-thousands-to-flee-in-australia-372217">Worst floods in 100 years force thousands to flee in Australia</a></strong></p>

<p>Upon more inspection, Kate and her family — who were trapped in the town of Wingham — quickly realised that the only bridge to the town where she was to marry Wayne, her fiance, was submerged in water.</p>

<p>"I had accepted the fact it was going to be raining and I was wearing gumboots, but I didn’t know how I was going to deal with a one-in-a-hundred-year flood and a natural disaster," Kate said.</p>

<p>However, the marvellous bride decided to not give up, and instead of postponing the wedding, the couple decided to float through the obstacle.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-australia-submerged-under-record-flood-372513"><strong>Watch |</strong></a></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-australia-submerged-under-record-flood-372513/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"It took three months to plan the wedding, 12 hours for it go to hell and six hours for it come together again," Kate said.</p>

<p>&nbsp;"I did have a bit of a meltdown – a bit of a cry – and said this just wasn’t funny anymore. This just sucks. Then I think I also said: we’re just going to have deal with this," she added.</p>

<p>With the spirit of "today's the day", the couple started looking for options as to how can the two meet and tie the knot in the one-in-a-hundred-years flood.</p>

<p>The two families first thought of getting Kate and her family to the venue through a boat, but safety reasons ruled out this option. After that, the two thought of getting the team bride on a high rail car and swish through the rail line that ran past her parents' house.</p>

<p>In the end, the couple agreed on an emergency airlift. Kate decided to blast social media with requests for help and soon an Affinity helicopter confirmed its availability in 50 minutes.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Help me!!! It’s my wedding day and we’re flooded in! We need help to get to Wingham over the flooded creek. Anyone know someone willing to help? <a href="https://twitter.com/sunriseon7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sunriseon7</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TODAYshow?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TODAYshow</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/abcnews?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@abcnews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ABCRural?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ABCRural</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/helpme?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#helpme</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/flooded?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#flooded</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NSWFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NSWFloods</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fotherbellwedding?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fotherbellwedding</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/9News?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#9News</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/7NEWS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#7NEWS</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/wingham?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#wingham</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/weddingday?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#weddingday</a></p>
— Kate Fotheringham (@KatelFog) <a href="https://twitter.com/KatelFog/status/1373027237469978631?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Wayne rang and said you have to be ready in 50 minutes," Late recalled. "We were waiting out the front for the helicopter. We took off and flew less than 5km and Justin, the pilot, dropped us off in the circle of Wingham Showground."</p>

<p>With the caterers and hair-and-makeup- people stuck in different parts of NSW, Kate decided to do her own make- up and used the help of her grandparents and friends who were already present in the town.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Update, I made it to the church and married the love of my life! Affinity Helicopters in Port Macquarie came to the rescue and made sure we all got there. This is the bridge that blocked us from making the 5minute drive into town! What a day! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fotherbellwedding?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fotherbellwedding</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/floodwingham?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#floodwingham</a> <a href="https://t.co/u7OlsFsTjQ">pic.twitter.com/u7OlsFsTjQ</a></p>
— Kate Fotheringham (@KatelFog) <a href="https://twitter.com/KatelFog/status/1373859864372387841?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>"It’s like, how is this possible? You can’t make it up. I can’t believe that we pulled it off," Kate exclaimed. "My family is incredible. We’re not ones to back down from something difficult, we can deal with a challenge or 10 – or a massive flood."</p>


Everyone hopes their wedding day becomes the most special day of their lives, and probably for everyone else attending the wedding too. Kate Fotheringham, a resident of New South Wales (NSW) had the same dreams about her big day.

Everyone hopes their wedding day becomes the most special day of their lives, and probably for everyone else attending the wedding too. Kate Fotheringham, a resident of New South Wales (NSW) had the same dreams about her big day. However, little did she know that her wedding will become the talk of the town. On Saturday morning, when Kate woke up excited for her wedding day, she realised she was trapped in her parents' house as the water surrounded the property, leaving no way to step outdoors. Have a look | Worst floods in 100 years force thousands to flee in Australia Upon more inspection, Kate and her family — who were trapped in the town of Wingham — quickly realised that the only bridge to the town where she was to marry Wayne, her fiance, was submerged in water. "I had accepted the fact it was going to be raining and I was wearing gumboots, but I didn’t know how I was going to deal with a one-in-a-hundred-year flood and a natural disaster," Kate said. However, the marvellous bride decided to not give up, and instead of postponing the wedding, the couple decided to float through the obstacle. Watch | "It took three months to plan the wedding, 12 hours for it go to hell and six hours for it come together again," Kate said. "I did have a bit of a meltdown – a bit of a cry – and said this just wasn’t funny anymore. This just sucks. Then I think I also said: we’re just going to have deal with this," she added. With the spirit of "today's the day", the couple started looking for options as to how can the two meet and tie the knot in the one-in-a-hundred-years flood. The two families first thought of getting Kate and her family to the venue through a boat, but safety reasons ruled out this option. After that, the two thought of getting the team bride on a high rail car and swish through the rail line that ran past her parents' house. In the end, the couple agreed on an emergency airlift. Kate decided to blast social media with requests for help and soon an Affinity helicopter confirmed its availability in 50 minutes. Help me!!! It’s my wedding day and we’re flooded in! We need help to get to Wingham over the flooded creek. Anyone know someone willing to help? @sunriseon7 @TODAYshow @abcnews @ABCRural #helpme #flooded #NSWFloods #fotherbellwedding #9News #7NEWS #wingham #weddingday — Kate Fotheringham (@KatelFog) March 19, 2021 × "Wayne rang and said you have to be ready in 50 minutes," Late recalled. "We were waiting out the front for the helicopter. We took off and flew less than 5km and Justin, the pilot, dropped us off in the circle of Wingham Showground." With the caterers and hair-and-makeup- people stuck in different parts of NSW, Kate decided to do her own make- up and used the help of her grandparents and friends who were already present in the town. Update, I made it to the church and married the love of my life! Affinity Helicopters in Port Macquarie came to the rescue and made sure we all got there. This is the bridge that blocked us from making the 5minute drive into town! What a day! #fotherbellwedding #floodwingham pic.twitter.com/u7OlsFsTjQ — Kate Fotheringham (@KatelFog) March 22, 2021 × "It’s like, how is this possible? You can’t make it up. I can’t believe that we pulled it off," Kate exclaimed. "My family is incredible. We’re not ones to back down from something difficult, we can deal with a challenge or 10 – or a massive flood."

Twelve hours of hell: Couple gets married amid NSW floods

In 2020, raging bushfires were ravaging Australia. Exactly a year later, the country is dealing with unprecedented floods. WION's Molly Gambhir brings you all the details.

Gravitas: Australia submerged under record flood

Torrential rains have lashed Australia's South-East region again. Dozens have been rescued from flooded regions. 38 regions in New South Wales have been declared disaster zones.

Mass evacuations underway in Australia as rains cause record flooding

Australia is facing out-of-season floods that are worst in a century, with tens of thousands of people evacuated, dams overflowing and livestock stranded.

Once-in-a-century floods drown Australia

Worst floods in 100 years force thousands to flee in Australia

<p>Australia’s east coast continues to witness heavy rainfall on Sunday and water continues to cause destruction across the region. In Sydney’s northwest, many people had to flee their homes in the middle of the night to avoid the heavy downpour.</p>

<p>In New South Wales alone, flooding risk and evacuation warnings were put out for 12 areas.&nbsp;NSW is Australia’s most populous state with 8 million people.</p>

<p>Jonathan How from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology told ABC News that both rain and strong winds are causing the devastation. In addition, he said that heavy rainfall is expected to continue in Sydney for the rest of Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/heavy-rain-forces-evacuations-flood-warnings-on-australias-east-coast-371839" hreflang="en">Heavy rain forces evacuations, flood warnings on Australia's east coast</a></p>

<p>Many areas are expected to witness&nbsp; 7.9 metres (200 millimetres) of rain. According to emergency services, over 600 people had reached out to them seeking help. Out of these, 60 were about seeking rescue amid floods.</p>

<p>Videos circulating on social media depict the destruction caused by fast-moving water - which has moved homes, uprooted trees, and damaged roads.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/australian-bushfires-spewed-as-much-smoke-into-stratosphere-as-a-large-volcano-371678" hreflang="en">Australian bushfires spewed as much smoke into stratosphere as a large volcano</a></p>

<p>Currently, Australia is attempting to inoculate its population against COVID-19. But the extreme weather has jolted country’s plans to move forward with vaccinations.</p>

<p>The country had planned to give the vaccine to 6 million people over the next few days. This is bound to be revised in view of the destruction.</p>

<p>"This will be a deep-seated, extreme weather event," NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklia said on Saturday.</p>


Australia’s east coast continues to witness heavy rainfall on Sunday and water continues to cause destruction across the region. In Sydney’s northwest, many people had to flee their homes in the middle of the night to avoid the heavy downpour.

Australia’s east coast continues to witness heavy rainfall on Sunday and water continues to cause destruction across the region. In Sydney’s northwest, many people had to flee their homes in the middle of the night to avoid the heavy downpour. In New South Wales alone, flooding risk and evacuation warnings were put out for 12 areas. NSW is Australia’s most populous state with 8 million people. Jonathan How from the Australian Bureau of Meteorology told ABC News that both rain and strong winds are causing the devastation. In addition, he said that heavy rainfall is expected to continue in Sydney for the rest of Sunday. Also read: Heavy rain forces evacuations, flood warnings on Australia's east coast Many areas are expected to witness 7.9 metres (200 millimetres) of rain. According to emergency services, over 600 people had reached out to them seeking help. Out of these, 60 were about seeking rescue amid floods. Videos circulating on social media depict the destruction caused by fast-moving water - which has moved homes, uprooted trees, and damaged roads. Also read: Australian bushfires spewed as much smoke into stratosphere as a large volcano Currently, Australia is attempting to inoculate its population against COVID-19. But the extreme weather has jolted country’s plans to move forward with vaccinations. The country had planned to give the vaccine to 6 million people over the next few days. This is bound to be revised in view of the destruction. "This will be a deep-seated, extreme weather event," NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklia said on Saturday.

Heavy rainfall continues to batter Australia; parts of Sydney evacuated

<p>Australia`s east coast was smashed by heavy rains on Saturday, forcing multiple evacuation orders and pleas from authorities for people in Sydney to stay at home amid the potentially life-threatening flash flooding.</p>

<p>Most of the coast of the New South Wales (NSW) state, which is home to about a third of Australia`s 25 million people, has already seen March rainfall records broken with heavy rain forecast to continue for the rest of the weekend.</p>

<p>"It`s not just the total rainfall amount, it`s also how quickly and intensely that rainfall has actually fallen," Agata Imielska, a senior climatologist with the Bureau of Meteorology, said at a televised briefing.</p>

<p>"So today (we) are just really urging the community out there that this is the day to exercise that powerful protective action of staying home and staying safe."</p>

<p>Television footage showed flooded roads across the state, people kayaking through the streets, water engulfing houses up to the windows and rivers overflooding. Video posted on social media and broadcast on local TV showed an entire house being swept away in floodwaters in the state`s centre.</p>

<p>NSW emergency services have responded to more than 800 calls for help since Friday night, including several hundred for rescue from flooding.</p>

<p>The Bureau of Meteorology has warned the heavy rainfall could lead to life-threatening flash flooding amid damaging winds of up to 70 kilometres per hour (43 miles per hour) with gusts exceeding 90 kilometres per hour.</p>

<p>Imielska said the Greater Sydney region would see rainfall totals this weekend of around 100 millimetres (4 inches) and the lower Blue Mountains was likely to see 200-300 millimetres.</p>

<p>Sydney`s Warragamba Dam, a major water supply for the city, was expected to overflow later on Saturday, and combine with river flows to potentially cause flooding across western Sydney, meteorologists said.</p>

<p>One of Australian turf`s marquee horse races, the A$3.5 million ($2.7 million) Golden Slipper at Sydney`s Rosehill racecourse has been postponed by a week, the first delay since 1963.</p>


Australia`s east coast was smashed by heavy rains on Saturday, forcing multiple evacuation orders and pleas from authorities for people in Sydney to stay at home amid the potentially life-threatening flash flooding.

Australia`s east coast was smashed by heavy rains on Saturday, forcing multiple evacuation orders and pleas from authorities for people in Sydney to stay at home amid the potentially life-threatening flash flooding. Most of the coast of the New South Wales (NSW) state, which is home to about a third of Australia`s 25 million people, has already seen March rainfall records broken with heavy rain forecast to continue for the rest of the weekend. "It`s not just the total rainfall amount, it`s also how quickly and intensely that rainfall has actually fallen," Agata Imielska, a senior climatologist with the Bureau of Meteorology, said at a televised briefing. "So today (we) are just really urging the community out there that this is the day to exercise that powerful protective action of staying home and staying safe." Television footage showed flooded roads across the state, people kayaking through the streets, water engulfing houses up to the windows and rivers overflooding. Video posted on social media and broadcast on local TV showed an entire house being swept away in floodwaters in the state`s centre. NSW emergency services have responded to more than 800 calls for help since Friday night, including several hundred for rescue from flooding. The Bureau of Meteorology has warned the heavy rainfall could lead to life-threatening flash flooding amid damaging winds of up to 70 kilometres per hour (43 miles per hour) with gusts exceeding 90 kilometres per hour. Imielska said the Greater Sydney region would see rainfall totals this weekend of around 100 millimetres (4 inches) and the lower Blue Mountains was likely to see 200-300 millimetres. Sydney`s Warragamba Dam, a major water supply for the city, was expected to overflow later on Saturday, and combine with river flows to potentially cause flooding across western Sydney, meteorologists said. One of Australian turf`s marquee horse races, the A$3.5 million ($2.7 million) Golden Slipper at Sydney`s Rosehill racecourse has been postponed by a week, the first delay since 1963.

Heavy rain forces evacuations, flood warnings on Australia's east coast

4 leaders, 4 democracies & 1 platform. The Quad has been revived but can it go beyond words? On Gravitas Plus, Palki Sharma Upadhyay decodes the past, present & future of this grouping.

Gravitas Plus: The Quad: Past, Present & Future

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