Facebook has banned news content in Australia. Millions of Australians have their newsfeeds empty. Is this a reckless move? Has Facebook chosen profit over people? WION's Palki Sharma gets you a 'status update' from Australia.

Gravitas: Facebooks wipes out news in Australia

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has vowed to go ahead with the content law to force Facebook to pay news outlets. He also said that if Facebook wants to conduct business, it needs to work according to the data laws of the country.

WION Dispatch: Australia refuses to bend on content law

In the dramatic escalation of its conflict with Australian govt, Facebook has blocked all media content in country.

Australian Govt reacts to Facebook media content blackout

The US, Japan, Australia, and India will hold virtual Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meet. United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken will be speaking to his counterparts as part of efforts to balance China’s growing military and economic power.

US to hold virtual Quad meet with Australia, India and Japan

Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality within a region in which all countries are sovereign, independent and resilient, said the Australian government on Thursday in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade press release.&nbsp;

Adding further on the importance of the Quad, the statement said that Quad is a key pillar of Australia's international agenda and complements our other bilateral, regional and multilateral engagement, including with ASEAN.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-quad-meet-pentagon-says-relationship-with-india-a-priority-364484">Ahead of Quad meet, Pentagon says relationship with India a 'priority'</a>

As per the statement, later on Thursday, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women Senator Marise Payne will join her counterparts, US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken, Japan Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for the third Quad foreign ministers' meeting.&nbsp;

This dialogue will allow our nations to advance our shared interests in a secure and prosperous region. The Quad's positive agenda will enable us to progress cooperation among four Indo-Pacific democracies across a range of areas, including to support the region recover from the economic and health impacts of Covid-19, read the release.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/after-ladakh-india-revamps-defence-strategy-364381">After Ladakh, India revamps defence strategy</a>

The third Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meeting will be held on February 18 to exchange views on regional and global issues, especially practical areas of cooperation towards maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The meeting will be in continuation of the views exchanged in the last quad meeting held in Tokyo on October 6 last year. The Quad initiative is expected to put an end to the economic coercion tactics of China and cooperation with Japan and other allies will checkmate Chinese development assistance and its hegemony in the region.

Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality within a region in which all countries are sovereign, independent and resilient, said the Australian government on Thursday in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade press release.

Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality within a region in which all countries are sovereign, independent and resilient, said the Australian government on Thursday in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade press release. Adding further on the importance of the Quad, the statement said that Quad is a key pillar of Australia's international agenda and complements our other bilateral, regional and multilateral engagement, including with ASEAN. Also Read: Ahead of Quad meet, Pentagon says relationship with India a 'priority' As per the statement, later on Thursday, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Women Senator Marise Payne will join her counterparts, US Secretary of State Antony J Blinken, Japan Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar for the third Quad foreign ministers' meeting. This dialogue will allow our nations to advance our shared interests in a secure and prosperous region. The Quad's positive agenda will enable us to progress cooperation among four Indo-Pacific democracies across a range of areas, including to support the region recover from the economic and health impacts of Covid-19, read the release. Also Read: After Ladakh, India revamps defence strategy The third Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meeting will be held on February 18 to exchange views on regional and global issues, especially practical areas of cooperation towards maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The meeting will be in continuation of the views exchanged in the last quad meeting held in Tokyo on October 6 last year. The Quad initiative is expected to put an end to the economic coercion tactics of China and cooperation with Japan and other allies will checkmate Chinese development assistance and its hegemony in the region.

Quad partners are strong supporters of ASEAN centrality, says Australia

In a dramatic escalation of its conflict with the Australian government, Facebook has now blocked all media content in the country. Australians woke up to empty news feeds on their Facebook timeline on February 18.

Facebook news goes dark in Australia

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China.&nbsp;

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday.

Watch |

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-secretary-of-state-antony-blinken-to-hold-quad-meet-with-members-364460/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"These discussions with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our times," Price said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-potential-bulwark-against-chinas-increasing-activity-in-the-indo-pacific-364376">Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific</a>

The Quadrilateral alliance, commonly known as "Quad", was launched in 2007 to balance China's rise in the region.&nbsp;

Despite the initial caution, Quad in recent years, particularly in the last year has grown, something that has angered Beijing.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, China's state-run Global Times warned US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>that renewing Quad would be a "serious strategic blunder" and may spark "a severe strategic confrontation" with Beijing.&nbsp;

The newspaper in an expert's commentary also tried to put a lot of pressure on India, saying India has the power to end the alliance and asked the country to not "completely tie itself to the US' anti-China chariot."

Recently Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>and Biden talked in a phone call in which the two leaders agreed to strengthen the security in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday.

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday. Watch | "These discussions with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our times," Price said. Also read | Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific The Quadrilateral alliance, commonly known as "Quad", was launched in 2007 to balance China's rise in the region. Despite the initial caution, Quad in recent years, particularly in the last year has grown, something that has angered Beijing. Earlier this month, China's state-run Global Times warned US President Joe Biden that renewing Quad would be a "serious strategic blunder" and may spark "a severe strategic confrontation" with Beijing. The newspaper in an expert's commentary also tried to put a lot of pressure on India, saying India has the power to end the alliance and asked the country to not "completely tie itself to the US' anti-China chariot." Recently Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Biden talked in a phone call in which the two leaders agreed to strengthen the security in the Indo-Pacific region.

US to hold talks with 'Quad' partners despite China pressure

Australians woke to empty news feeds on their Facebook Inc pages on February 18 after the social media giant blocked all media content.

Australia: Govt slams FB's content blackout, states move as 'Wrong, heavy handed'

The Quad grouping makes sense, but to make a difference it needs to speak in one voice. The alliance has informally existed for 13 long years but seems to have restricted itself to mere posturing. WION's Palki Sharma says it's time the Quad become proactive and not reactive.

Gravitas: Time to turn Quad into a formal alliance?

Aussies wake to a dramatic content blackout on FB

The two neighbouring countries, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/australia-and-new-zealand">Australia and New Zealand</a> seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey.

A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children. The woman was arrested by the Turkish authorities near the Syrian border and is believed to be a member of the Islamic State extremist group.

This woman is believed to hold dual citizenship of Australia and New Zealand. However, Australia seems to be backing away from taking her responsibility.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-and-facebook-close-to-deals-with-australian-media-363691" hreflang="en">Google and Facebook 'close' to deals with Australian media</a>

New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, this time, has not shied away from telling her Australian counterpart that his country is at "wrong" this time.

"Any fair minded person would consider this person an Australian and that is my view too," Ardern said in a statement. "We believe Australia has abdicated its responsibilities."

It is believed the accused had spent the majority of her childhood and adult life in Australia and also has her family members settled there. However, the Australian government has shrieked from taking her responsibility, which has now angered Ardern.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-confirms-first-case-of-uk-variant-amid-auckland-lockdown-363640" hreflang="en">New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown</a>

"It is wrong that New Zealand should shoulder the responsibility for a situation involving a woman who has not lived in New Zealand since she was six," Ardern said. "(The woman) has resided in Australia since that time, has her family in Australia and left for Syria from Australia on her Australian passport."

Ardern has accused Australia of cancelling her citizenship after her arrest, leaving New Zealand solely responsible for her terrorism-related activities and involvements.

Australia PM Scott Morrison, meanwhile, has defended this action as the best possible way to ensure the nation's security interests.&nbsp;

"We do not want to see terrorists who fought with terrorism organisations enjoying privileges of citizenship, which I think they forfeit the second they engage as an enemy of our country," Morrison said in a press conference.&nbsp;

However, he has also ensured that he will have a dialogue with Ardern. "There is still a lot more unknown about this case and where it sits and where it may go to next," he said.

Ardern has also requested Morrison to consider the future of the two children too, who have been caught in the crossfire through no fault of their own.

"Coming to New Zealand, where they have no immediate family, would not be in their best interests. We know that young children thrive best when surrounded by people who love them," she said.

The two neighbouring countries, Australia and New Zealand seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey. A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children.

The two neighbouring countries, Australia and New Zealand seem to be in a bad position with each other over the nationality of the terrorist arrested in Turkey. A 26-year-old woman was reportedly arrested this week in Turkey with her two children. The woman was arrested by the Turkish authorities near the Syrian border and is believed to be a member of the Islamic State extremist group. This woman is believed to hold dual citizenship of Australia and New Zealand. However, Australia seems to be backing away from taking her responsibility. Also read| Google and Facebook 'close' to deals with Australian media New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, this time, has not shied away from telling her Australian counterpart that his country is at "wrong" this time. "Any fair minded person would consider this person an Australian and that is my view too," Ardern said in a statement. "We believe Australia has abdicated its responsibilities." It is believed the accused had spent the majority of her childhood and adult life in Australia and also has her family members settled there. However, the Australian government has shrieked from taking her responsibility, which has now angered Ardern. Also read| New Zealand confirms first case of UK variant amid Auckland lockdown "It is wrong that New Zealand should shoulder the responsibility for a situation involving a woman who has not lived in New Zealand since she was six," Ardern said. "(The woman) has resided in Australia since that time, has her family in Australia and left for Syria from Australia on her Australian passport." Ardern has accused Australia of cancelling her citizenship after her arrest, leaving New Zealand solely responsible for her terrorism-related activities and involvements. Australia PM Scott Morrison, meanwhile, has defended this action as the best possible way to ensure the nation's security interests. "We do not want to see terrorists who fought with terrorism organisations enjoying privileges of citizenship, which I think they forfeit the second they engage as an enemy of our country," Morrison said in a press conference. However, he has also ensured that he will have a dialogue with Ardern. "There is still a lot more unknown about this case and where it sits and where it may go to next," he said. Ardern has also requested Morrison to consider the future of the two children too, who have been caught in the crossfire through no fault of their own. "Coming to New Zealand, where they have no immediate family, would not be in their best interests. We know that young children thrive best when surrounded by people who love them," she said.

'It is wrong': New Zealand-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern accused Australia of abdicating its responsibilities by cancelling the citizenship of a woman detained in Turkey and accused of having links to the Islamic State.

WION Fineprint: New Zealand PM slams Australia over dual citizen detained in Turkey

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has apologised to a woman who alleged that she was raped in the countries Parliament. The woman alleged that an unnamed colleague had raped her in the minister's office in March 2019.

Australian PM apologises to women who alleged rape in Parliament

Australia has yet another problem at hand, a rape scandal, and the Prime Minister has had to issue an apology.

The apology came after a former Australian government staffer has said she was raped in a government minister's office in the parliament. She also accused that she was not helped by her bosses even after coming forward.

This has prompted an apology from the Prime Minister. "That should not have happened. And I do apologise," he told local reporters. "There should not be an environment where a young woman can find herself in such a vulnerable situation. That is not OK."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-wrong-new-zealand-australia-clash-over-responsibility-of-terrorist-with-dual-nationality-363934">NZ-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality</a>

Brittany Higgins had alleged that after a night out drinking with conservative Liberal Party colleagues, she was sexually assaulted by one of her male colleagues in the now-Defence Minister Linda Reynolds' office. The incident which happened in 2019 was, as per Higgings, reported to her superior. However, she was then asked to attend a formal employment meeting in that very room.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-pm-scott-morrison-apologises-to-woman-who-was-raped-in-parliament-363982">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-pm-scott-morrison-apologises-to-woman-who-was-raped-in-parliament-363982/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

She says she was forced to choose between filing a police complaint and her "dream job" at the age of 24.

Higgins' accusation has highlighted the mistreatment of women in the country's political environment, which is believed to be on an alarming rise. Women in politics are also increasingly being subjected to bullying, harassment and sexual misconduct.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/google-and-facebook-close-to-deals-with-australian-media-363691" hreflang="en">Google and Facebook 'close' to deals with Australian media</a>

While the government, at first, tried to claim they had provided full support to the victim, an official later admitted that the choice of room for the meeting was a huge mistake. Higgins, on the other hand, claims she felt like a "political problem" that needed to be solved and claimed her bosses were highly "uncomfortable" if she brought up the tragedy.

Along with an apology, the Prime Minister also ordered an investigation into such inhumane treatment of women in Parliament in the country.&nbsp;

This was appreciated by Higgins. "The Prime Minister's announcement of an investigation into the culture in Parliament House is a welcomed first-step, though it is long overdue," she said.

Australia has yet another problem at hand, a rape scandal, and the Prime Minister has had to issue an apology. The apology came after a former Australian government staffer has said she was raped in a government minister's office in the parliament.

Australia has yet another problem at hand, a rape scandal, and the Prime Minister has had to issue an apology. The apology came after a former Australian government staffer has said she was raped in a government minister's office in the parliament. She also accused that she was not helped by her bosses even after coming forward. This has prompted an apology from the Prime Minister. "That should not have happened. And I do apologise," he told local reporters. "There should not be an environment where a young woman can find herself in such a vulnerable situation. That is not OK." Also read| NZ-Australia clash over responsibility of terrorist with dual nationality Brittany Higgins had alleged that after a night out drinking with conservative Liberal Party colleagues, she was sexually assaulted by one of her male colleagues in the now-Defence Minister Linda Reynolds' office. The incident which happened in 2019 was, as per Higgings, reported to her superior. However, she was then asked to attend a formal employment meeting in that very room. WATCH| She says she was forced to choose between filing a police complaint and her "dream job" at the age of 24. Higgins' accusation has highlighted the mistreatment of women in the country's political environment, which is believed to be on an alarming rise. Women in politics are also increasingly being subjected to bullying, harassment and sexual misconduct. Also read| Google and Facebook 'close' to deals with Australian media While the government, at first, tried to claim they had provided full support to the victim, an official later admitted that the choice of room for the meeting was a huge mistake. Higgins, on the other hand, claims she felt like a "political problem" that needed to be solved and claimed her bosses were highly "uncomfortable" if she brought up the tragedy. Along with an apology, the Prime Minister also ordered an investigation into such inhumane treatment of women in Parliament in the country. This was appreciated by Higgins. "The Prime Minister's announcement of an investigation into the culture in Parliament House is a welcomed first-step, though it is long overdue," she said.

Woman raped in Australian parliament, PM apologises

The Prime Minister of Australia Scott Morrison has apologised to a former staffer who alleges that she was raped by a parliamentarian in Defence Minster's office. PM Morrison vows a strict probe against the crime and promises to punish the person.

Australia: PM Scott Morrison apologises to woman who was raped in Parliament

Google and Facebook are "very close" to deals with major <a href="https://www.wionews.com/australia-and-new-zealand">Australian</a> media to pay for news, a top government official said Monday, as the tech giants scramble to avoid landmark regulation.

Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said talks with Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Google CEO Sundar Pichai had made "great progress" in resolving a standoff being closely watched around the world.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/microsoft-says-it-supports-australias-plans-to-make-google-pay-for-news-361044">Microsoft says it supports Australia's plans to make Google pay for news</a>

Australia is poised to adopt legislation that would force digital companies to pay for news content, something that would create a global precedent and, according to Facebook and Google, wreck the way the internet works.

The companies have threatened to partially withdraw services from the country if the rules become law, sparking a war of words with Canberra.

But that disagreement appeared to ease Monday, with Frydenberg telling public broadcaster ABC talks with the companies "made great progress over the course of the weekend".

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-to-launch-smartwatch-with-messaging-fitness-features-363611">Facebook to launch smartwatch with messaging, fitness features</a>

"I think we're very close to some very significant commercial deals," he said, "and in doing so that will transform the domestic media landscape."

The agreements could be enough to see Facebook and Google avoid the most severe parts of the legislation -- including binding arbitration to ensure they are not using their online advertising duopoly to dictate terms in deals with media companies.

Following Frydenberg's remarks, SevenWest Media, owner of broadcaster 7NEWS and The West Australian newspaper, announced Monday a new agreement for its content to be hosted on Google's News Showcase product.

The Sydney Morning Herald reported the first major deal with a large Australian news organisation was worth more than Aus$30 million (US$23 million) a year.

SevenWest chairman Kerry Stokes said it was a "great outcome" and hailed the government's work on its news media bargaining code as "instrumental in the outcome of this ground-breaking agreement".

The firm will join several smaller local publishers on News Showcase, which Google said had received more than one million views since launching in Australia eight days ago.

Frydenberg's comments suggest major Australian media organisations, such as Rupert Murdoch's News Corp and Nine Entertainment, could be close to reaching similar deals.

A Google spokesman said the company was in discussions with publishers both "large and small" while a Facebook spokesperson said the firm had been negotiating to "land commercial deals that reflect the commercial value of news content on our platform".

News groups worldwide have seen their businesses ravaged by the loss of advertising dollars that once flowed to their newspapers but are now overwhelmingly captured by the big digital platforms.

Thousands of journalists' jobs have been lost and numerous outlets forced to close in Australia alone over the past decade.

Google and Facebook are "very close" to deals with major Australian media to pay for news, a top government official said Monday, as the tech giants scramble to avoid landmark regulation.

Google and Facebook are "very close" to deals with major Australian media to pay for news, a top government official said Monday, as the tech giants scramble to avoid landmark regulation. Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said talks with Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and Google CEO Sundar Pichai had made "great progress" in resolving a standoff being closely watched around the world. Also read| Microsoft says it supports Australia's plans to make Google pay for news Australia is poised to adopt legislation that would force digital companies to pay for news content, something that would create a global precedent and, according to Facebook and Google, wreck the way the internet works. The companies have threatened to partially withdraw services from the country if the rules become law, sparking a war of words with Canberra. But that disagreement appeared to ease Monday, with Frydenberg telling public broadcaster ABC talks with the companies "made great progress over the course of the weekend". Also read| Facebook to launch smartwatch with messaging, fitness features "I think we're very close to some very significant commercial deals," he said, "and in doing so that will transform the domestic media landscape." The agreements could be enough to see Facebook and Google avoid the most severe parts of the legislation -- including binding arbitration to ensure they are not using their online advertising duopoly to dictate terms in deals with media companies. Following Frydenberg's remarks, SevenWest Media, owner of broadcaster 7NEWS and The West Australian newspaper, announced Monday a new agreement for its content to be hosted on Google's News Showcase product. The Sydney Morning Herald reported the first major deal with a large Australian news organisation was worth more than Aus$30 million (US$23 million) a year. SevenWest chairman Kerry Stokes said it was a "great outcome" and hailed the government's work on its news media bargaining code as "instrumental in the outcome of this ground-breaking agreement". The firm will join several smaller local publishers on News Showcase, which Google said had received more than one million views since launching in Australia eight days ago. Frydenberg's comments suggest major Australian media organisations, such as Rupert Murdoch's News Corp and Nine Entertainment, could be close to reaching similar deals. A Google spokesman said the company was in discussions with publishers both "large and small" while a Facebook spokesperson said the firm had been negotiating to "land commercial deals that reflect the commercial value of news content on our platform". News groups worldwide have seen their businesses ravaged by the loss of advertising dollars that once flowed to their newspapers but are now overwhelmingly captured by the big digital platforms. Thousands of journalists' jobs have been lost and numerous outlets forced to close in Australia alone over the past decade.

Google and Facebook 'close' to deals with Australian media

Global demand for meat is rising, statistics show that the world produces 3 times the quantity of meat as it did 50 years ago. The meat industry is very profitable but not very sustainable. but scientists are working to find more sustainable ways to feed people. some Australian scientists have found marine micro-algae.

Will you choose Micro-Algae as an alternative to meat?

In a world where the meat industries are thriving, scientists are trying to find sustainable ways to feed people. Australian researchers have come up with a way to turn marine micro-algae into food.

Marine Microalgae: Scientists in search of sustainable ways to feed people

The Lunar New Year period is usually the busiest time of the year for tour operator Scenic World in Australia's iconic Blue Mountains, with many Asian tourists visiting to ring in the new year. But in 2021 with borders closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and still recovering from the 2020 bushfires, the normally bustling cableway, the world's steepest railway and glass-floored skyway carriages are almost empty.

Blue Mountains tourism slumps without tourists from Asia

Sydney welcomed the Lunar New Year of the Ox a few days early on Tuesday (February 9), kicking off two weeks of festivities and celebration throughout the city.

Sydney welcomes the Lunar New Year of the Ox

Australian Journalist Cheng Lei has been arrested in China, as he is accused of spying and leaking state secrets overseas. Cheng Lei was working as a business news anchor for China-based CGTN.

Australian Journalist arrested in China for spying, leaking state secrets overseas

Priyanka Chopra Jonas isn’t the kind to let a minute of her life slip away, even when life is on lockdown.

While others were perfecting their sourdough starters last spring, Chopra Jonas decided to write her first book — and finished it. As quarantine fatigue curtailed our enthusiasm for crafting and Kondo-izing, she was in London shooting the romantic drama “Text for You” alongside Sam Heughan and Celine Dion.

By the time a lot of us had been rendered bloblike, Chopra Jonas was in overdrive, simultaneously promoting three projects: her Netflix movie, “The White Tiger,” adapted from Aravind Adiga’s Booker Prize-winning rags-to-riches novel about a self-made Bangalore businessman; her memoir, “Unfinished,” which chronicles her 38 years, including her reign as Miss World and breakthrough into Bollywood and eventually Hollywood; and her new sustainable hair care line, Anomaly.

As if that weren’t enough, she was prepping to shoot “Citadel,” a spy series directed by the Russo brothers for Amazon, which had been delayed a year because of COVID-19 restrictions.

Through it all, Chopra Jonas was still finding room for some self-care and shut-eye, “which has to be scheduled time, because otherwise I would never get sleep,” she said. In a phone call in late January from her home in London, Chopra Jonas tracked the recent routines and cultural items that are keeping her busy.

These are edited excerpts from the conversation.

Wednesday morning

In our profession, my routine is dictated by the schedule that my team decides for me, predominantly. So the only thing routine-y about my schedule is I always make sure I have at least eight hours of sleep. My coffee machine is in my bedroom, right by my bed. The first thing I do is press the Nespresso button and smell the aroma of the coffee, and that’s how my eyes open.

Then I check out the news and scroll through Twitter usually still when I’m in bed. I need five or 10 minutes to orient myself to the fact that I’m waking up. On a languid day, maybe it would be half an hour. This ritual is ultimately what led me to “The White Tiger.” There was so much chatter around it in literary circles. I’m an avid reader. I try and pick up the books everyone’s talking about because I don’t really have the luxury of time to discover my own favourites.

My days start with a workout, usually on Zoom with my trainer. I started getting consistent with working out during quarantine. I hate working out otherwise. I’m not one of those people who’s like, “Oh my gosh, I enjoy it so much that I need it.” I listen to Hindi rap, like Raftaar and Divine, while I work out. It’s alive and visceral.

Wednesday afternoon

I watched the inauguration, and I think I felt exactly what the world was feeling. It was a very emotional time for a lot of my friends and family in America, and I felt very excited about the fact that the country is stepping into the right direction in terms of leadership. Not only should leadership look like this, but also sound like this. As someone coming from a country who has had many females in high positions of power, it’s awesome to see the U.S. finally get their first.

My days for the past two weeks have been back-to-back with recording my audiobook and promo, and [together] it takes 12 to 13 hours a day. I filmed three talk show interviews — Kelly Clarkson, Lilly Singh and Ellen — and I recorded a few podcasts and did several phone interviews. I think I was one of the earlier people to commit to the fact that we’re going to be working off Zoom for a really long time. So I found a corner of my room with a fireplace where I do all my Zoom calls.

Wednesday night

Before bed, I always need a few hours to unwind, and this is usually when I watch TV or read. Right now I’m reading “Amnesty,” Aravind Adiga’s next novel. I obviously am a fan. This is based in Australia, and it’s about a Sri Lankan immigrant, and it’s a thriller from his perspective. I do love to get out of work mode and just enjoy the content for what it is. But most of my reading I do with both [enjoyment and the idea of a project] in mind.

I haven’t been able to commit to a TV show because of how busy my schedule is. I recently finished “The Undoing,” “The Boys” and “Bridgerton” but I’m also really into movies after dinner. I’ve watched a lot of the Oscar contenders — “Sound of Metal,” “Da 5 Bloods,” “One Night in Miami.”

Thursday morning

Finally, I had some semblance of a morning I don’t even know how long. I woke up by 10, had a quick workout and then I had luxurious brunch with my mom, who is living in London with me. She was here with my husband during the holidays so that we could be together. I felt safer with her around me. My husband left-top of the year, but I didn’t let my mom go. So I’ve sort of kidnapped her right now.

Thursday afternoon

My first call wasn’t until 2 — a prep call with the producers of “Citadel,” which I am so excited to start. Prep calls are usually character development, which is one of my favourite things. The most exciting job as an actor is when you have the ability to take someone off the page and really breathe life into them.

Thursday night

Then it was back to promo. Unlike normal junkets where you’re local and live with the media, we have been up early and late to hit markets all over the world. Tonight we ended with “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” at 1 am.

I couldn’t sleep, because you know when you go beyond tired on the other side of the hill? That happened. Then I was on TikTok for hours. I’m a secret admirer, so I consume whatever they show me. It’s a lot of baby videos or doggy videos or kitten videos.

We got a quarantine pet, yes, we did! He’s Panda, and he’s a rescue. I got Nick a German shepherd for our anniversary last year, and my dog, Diana, who I’ve had for four years, she’s a rescue as well. So we had the two. But Nick’s parents were visiting and they brought their girls with them, and the house was full of four dogs, and it was so amazing that after Nick’s parents left, I was kind of feeling like, we need another dog. He’s a mix between an Australian shepherd and a husky. And he’s a punk. He deliberately defies you but he’s so adorable that you forget everything. He’s in LA with Nick at the moment, but they should be coming here sometime next month.

Friday morning

It was my last free weekday before I start “Citadel,” which I’ll be filming until next November. It was also release day of “The White Tiger.” Release day is filled with a roller coaster of emotions, but always with bright eyes and hope for a strong opening. I’m so proud to share this film with the world.

Friday afternoon

I did “Hot Ones.” Oh my God. I’ve done it before on Jimmy Fallon, and it almost killed me. But this time — and I love spicy food. I need hot sauce. I carry it everywhere — but some of the hot sauces are like poison. They’re insane how spicy they are. I literally felt like I was going to faint. I had to open the doors up and walk outside and eat ice cream and milk, and I was crying. Ghost pepper was at No. 4. So you could imagine what No. 10 was.

Friday night

I did a viewing party for “The White Tiger” with a lot of my family and friends all on Zoom. It is such a provocative tale of something that all of us have become so desensitized to, which is this large division between the haves and the have-nots. And COVID specifically showed the world that disparity so glaringly. When is the last time you’ve driven past a homeless shelter or a homeless person and not done anything about it? A majority of the world lives in circumstances like that, so it’s really a sort of mirror into self-reflection. I’m very proud of the movie because it has social commentary, but at the same time it’s sarcastic, funny, dark and really clever.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas isn’t the kind to let a minute of her life slip away, even when life is on lockdown. While others were perfecting their sourdough starters last spring, Chopra Jonas decided to write her first book — and finished it.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas isn’t the kind to let a minute of her life slip away, even when life is on lockdown. While others were perfecting their sourdough starters last spring, Chopra Jonas decided to write her first book — and finished it. As quarantine fatigue curtailed our enthusiasm for crafting and Kondo-izing, she was in London shooting the romantic drama “Text for You” alongside Sam Heughan and Celine Dion. By the time a lot of us had been rendered bloblike, Chopra Jonas was in overdrive, simultaneously promoting three projects: her Netflix movie, “The White Tiger,” adapted from Aravind Adiga’s Booker Prize-winning rags-to-riches novel about a self-made Bangalore businessman; her memoir, “Unfinished,” which chronicles her 38 years, including her reign as Miss World and breakthrough into Bollywood and eventually Hollywood; and her new sustainable hair care line, Anomaly. As if that weren’t enough, she was prepping to shoot “Citadel,” a spy series directed by the Russo brothers for Amazon, which had been delayed a year because of COVID-19 restrictions. Through it all, Chopra Jonas was still finding room for some self-care and shut-eye, “which has to be scheduled time, because otherwise I would never get sleep,” she said. In a phone call in late January from her home in London, Chopra Jonas tracked the recent routines and cultural items that are keeping her busy. These are edited excerpts from the conversation. Wednesday morning In our profession, my routine is dictated by the schedule that my team decides for me, predominantly. So the only thing routine-y about my schedule is I always make sure I have at least eight hours of sleep. My coffee machine is in my bedroom, right by my bed. The first thing I do is press the Nespresso button and smell the aroma of the coffee, and that’s how my eyes open. Then I check out the news and scroll through Twitter usually still when I’m in bed. I need five or 10 minutes to orient myself to the fact that I’m waking up. On a languid day, maybe it would be half an hour. This ritual is ultimately what led me to “The White Tiger.” There was so much chatter around it in literary circles. I’m an avid reader. I try and pick up the books everyone’s talking about because I don’t really have the luxury of time to discover my own favourites. My days start with a workout, usually on Zoom with my trainer. I started getting consistent with working out during quarantine. I hate working out otherwise. I’m not one of those people who’s like, “Oh my gosh, I enjoy it so much that I need it.” I listen to Hindi rap, like Raftaar and Divine, while I work out. It’s alive and visceral. Wednesday afternoon I watched the inauguration, and I think I felt exactly what the world was feeling. It was a very emotional time for a lot of my friends and family in America, and I felt very excited about the fact that the country is stepping into the right direction in terms of leadership. Not only should leadership look like this, but also sound like this. As someone coming from a country who has had many females in high positions of power, it’s awesome to see the U.S. finally get their first. My days for the past two weeks have been back-to-back with recording my audiobook and promo, and [together] it takes 12 to 13 hours a day. I filmed three talk show interviews — Kelly Clarkson, Lilly Singh and Ellen — and I recorded a few podcasts and did several phone interviews. I think I was one of the earlier people to commit to the fact that we’re going to be working off Zoom for a really long time. So I found a corner of my room with a fireplace where I do all my Zoom calls. Wednesday night Before bed, I always need a few hours to unwind, and this is usually when I watch TV or read. Right now I’m reading “Amnesty,” Aravind Adiga’s next novel. I obviously am a fan. This is based in Australia, and it’s about a Sri Lankan immigrant, and it’s a thriller from his perspective. I do love to get out of work mode and just enjoy the content for what it is. But most of my reading I do with both [enjoyment and the idea of a project] in mind. I haven’t been able to commit to a TV show because of how busy my schedule is. I recently finished “The Undoing,” “The Boys” and “Bridgerton” but I’m also really into movies after dinner. I’ve watched a lot of the Oscar contenders — “Sound of Metal,” “Da 5 Bloods,” “One Night in Miami.” Thursday morning Finally, I had some semblance of a morning I don’t even know how long. I woke up by 10, had a quick workout and then I had luxurious brunch with my mom, who is living in London with me. She was here with my husband during the holidays so that we could be together. I felt safer with her around me. My husband left-top of the year, but I didn’t let my mom go. So I’ve sort of kidnapped her right now. Thursday afternoon My first call wasn’t until 2 — a prep call with the producers of “Citadel,” which I am so excited to start. Prep calls are usually character development, which is one of my favourite things. The most exciting job as an actor is when you have the ability to take someone off the page and really breathe life into them. Thursday night Then it was back to promo. Unlike normal junkets where you’re local and live with the media, we have been up early and late to hit markets all over the world. Tonight we ended with “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert” at 1 am. I couldn’t sleep, because you know when you go beyond tired on the other side of the hill? That happened. Then I was on TikTok for hours. I’m a secret admirer, so I consume whatever they show me. It’s a lot of baby videos or doggy videos or kitten videos. We got a quarantine pet, yes, we did! He’s Panda, and he’s a rescue. I got Nick a German shepherd for our anniversary last year, and my dog, Diana, who I’ve had for four years, she’s a rescue as well. So we had the two. But Nick’s parents were visiting and they brought their girls with them, and the house was full of four dogs, and it was so amazing that after Nick’s parents left, I was kind of feeling like, we need another dog. He’s a mix between an Australian shepherd and a husky. And he’s a punk. He deliberately defies you but he’s so adorable that you forget everything. He’s in LA with Nick at the moment, but they should be coming here sometime next month. Friday morning It was my last free weekday before I start “Citadel,” which I’ll be filming until next November. It was also release day of “The White Tiger.” Release day is filled with a roller coaster of emotions, but always with bright eyes and hope for a strong opening. I’m so proud to share this film with the world. Friday afternoon I did “Hot Ones.” Oh my God. I’ve done it before on Jimmy Fallon, and it almost killed me. But this time — and I love spicy food. I need hot sauce. I carry it everywhere — but some of the hot sauces are like poison. They’re insane how spicy they are. I literally felt like I was going to faint. I had to open the doors up and walk outside and eat ice cream and milk, and I was crying. Ghost pepper was at No. 4. So you could imagine what No. 10 was. Friday night I did a viewing party for “The White Tiger” with a lot of my family and friends all on Zoom. It is such a provocative tale of something that all of us have become so desensitized to, which is this large division between the haves and the have-nots. And COVID specifically showed the world that disparity so glaringly. When is the last time you’ve driven past a homeless shelter or a homeless person and not done anything about it? A majority of the world lives in circumstances like that, so it’s really a sort of mirror into self-reflection. I’m very proud of the movie because it has social commentary, but at the same time it’s sarcastic, funny, dark and really clever.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas’s Week: Fireside Zoom calls and 'Bridgerton' episodes

Strong winds threatened to fan a bushfire in Perth Hills area, about 40 km (25 miles) from the capital on Wednesday (February 3), as it destroyed a swathe of more than 9,000 hectares (22,240 acres) and 71 homes, Australian authorities say.

More than 70 homes destroyed in Western Austalia bushfires, thousands told to leave

A massive effort by firefighters in Australia's Perth brought large bushfire near Perth under control. However, strong winds are still a challenge.

The fire at Perth Hills destroyed at least 81 homes.

Western Australia state Premier Mark McGowan said the devastation caused was "almost too much to comprehend". 
But after "a bleak couple of days", he said, firefighters managed to keep the flames at bay overnight as the blaze threatened homes in more populous areas.

"This is a truly remarkable achievement given the ferocity of the fire. And that, as far as we know, no additional homes have been lost overnight thanks to the incredible work of our fireys," McGowan said.

Seven firefighters sustained minor injuries but there was no death.

The bushfires have 10,000 hectares (24,700 acres) since they were sparked Monday.

It comes about a year after Australia was hit by unprecedented climate change-fuelled bushfires, devastating whole communities and wiping out billions of animals.

More than 3.5 million hectares were burned across Western Australia during 2019-2020 but the state was largely spared the loss of properties and lives seen in the country's more densely populated southeast.

Scientists say fires are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, with people living in urban-bushland areas like the Perth Hills especially vulnerable to the impact of blazes.

Hundreds of people have fled the area in recent days and emergency warnings remain in place.

More than 250 firefighters were operating in rough and hilly terrain, making their task "really difficult", said department of fire and emergency services commissioner Darren Klemm.

Winds of up to 70 kilometres an hour (43 mph) have left some water-bombing planes grounded and were continuing to fan the flames.

(With AFP inputs)

A massive effort by firefighters in Australia's Perth brought large bushfire near Perth under control. However, strong winds are still a challenge. The fire at Perth Hills destroyed at least 81 homes.

A massive effort by firefighters in Australia's Perth brought large bushfire near Perth under control. However, strong winds are still a challenge. The fire at Perth Hills destroyed at least 81 homes. Western Australia state Premier Mark McGowan said the devastation caused was "almost too much to comprehend". But after "a bleak couple of days", he said, firefighters managed to keep the flames at bay overnight as the blaze threatened homes in more populous areas. "This is a truly remarkable achievement given the ferocity of the fire. And that, as far as we know, no additional homes have been lost overnight thanks to the incredible work of our fireys," McGowan said. Seven firefighters sustained minor injuries but there was no death. The bushfires have 10,000 hectares (24,700 acres) since they were sparked Monday. It comes about a year after Australia was hit by unprecedented climate change-fuelled bushfires, devastating whole communities and wiping out billions of animals. More than 3.5 million hectares were burned across Western Australia during 2019-2020 but the state was largely spared the loss of properties and lives seen in the country's more densely populated southeast. Scientists say fires are becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, with people living in urban-bushland areas like the Perth Hills especially vulnerable to the impact of blazes. Hundreds of people have fled the area in recent days and emergency warnings remain in place. More than 250 firefighters were operating in rough and hilly terrain, making their task "really difficult", said department of fire and emergency services commissioner Darren Klemm. Winds of up to 70 kilometres an hour (43 mph) have left some water-bombing planes grounded and were continuing to fan the flames. (With AFP inputs)

Firefighters bring Perth bushfire under control, but danger remains

Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev won their respective singles matches on Wednesday to help Russia join Italy in the semi-finals of the team-based ATP Cup in Melbourne.

ATP Finals winner Medvedev took down Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-2 6-4 after Rublev's dominant 6-1 6-3 victory again Yoshihito Nishioka, setting up Russia's second victory in Group D after the side defeated Argentina on Tuesday.

"Semis is a big step," Medvedev told reporters. "Looking forward, really happy that we made it in both singles."

Germany also boosted their chances of progressing to the last four by defeating Canada at the Rod Laver Arena in Group A to set up a knockout tie against defending champions Serbia on Thursday.

World number six Stefanos Tsitsipas levelled the Group B tie for Greece against Australia with a 6-3 7-5 win over Alex de Minaur in front of a raucous crowd after John Millman gave the hosts the lead with a 6-2 6-3 win over Michail Pervolarakis.

John Peers and Luke Saville then clinched a 6-3 4-6 (10-5) doubles win over Tsitsipas and Pervolarakis to help Australia win the tie 2-1 and keep their semi-final hopes alive after Tuesday's 3-0 drubbing by Spain.

With the second edition of the competition truncated because of Australian Open coronavirus quarantine, victory for Fabio Fognini and Matteo Berrettini in the singles combined with Tuesday's 2-1 win over Austria ensured Italy would top Group C.

Fognini downed Benoit Paire 6-1 7-6(2) in the opening match of the day on John Cain Arena before Matteo Berrettini outwitted Gael Monfils 6-4 6-2 to make France's doubles win academic.

If that clash was one-sided, the Germany-Canada Group A tie was anything but with four of the fives sets in the two singles matches decided by tiebreakers.

Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff dominated the first two and finished off Milos Raonic with a thumping ace for a 7-6(4) 7-6(2) victory that gave Germany a 1-0 lead in their opening tie.

After losing 2-1 to Novak Djokovic's Serbia on Tuesday, Canada needed to win the tie to stay alive in the competition and Denis Shapovalov made a positive start by taking the first set against Alexander Zverev.

Shapovalov, backing up after a loss to Djokovic, needed treatment on his shoulder as world number seven Zverev levelled up the contest in the second set, however.

Zverev, in his first match of the year, warmed to his task in a tight deciding set but was unable to convert seven break points as Shapovalov dug deep.

Shapovalov had his chances in the decisive tiebreak but an unforced error and a double fault at crucial moments opened the door for Zverev and the German stormed through it with his 14th and 15th aces for a 6-7(5) 6-3 7-6(4) victory.

"Winning a team event, winning something for your country it's one of the biggest things in our sport," Zverev said. "I think the ATP Cup is just as big as the Davis Cup right now."

Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev won their respective singles matches on Wednesday to help Russia join Italy in the semi-finals of the team-based ATP Cup in Melbourne.

Daniil Medvedev and Andrey Rublev won their respective singles matches on Wednesday to help Russia join Italy in the semi-finals of the team-based ATP Cup in Melbourne. ATP Finals winner Medvedev took down Japan's Kei Nishikori 6-2 6-4 after Rublev's dominant 6-1 6-3 victory again Yoshihito Nishioka, setting up Russia's second victory in Group D after the side defeated Argentina on Tuesday. "Semis is a big step," Medvedev told reporters. "Looking forward, really happy that we made it in both singles." Germany also boosted their chances of progressing to the last four by defeating Canada at the Rod Laver Arena in Group A to set up a knockout tie against defending champions Serbia on Thursday. World number six Stefanos Tsitsipas levelled the Group B tie for Greece against Australia with a 6-3 7-5 win over Alex de Minaur in front of a raucous crowd after John Millman gave the hosts the lead with a 6-2 6-3 win over Michail Pervolarakis. John Peers and Luke Saville then clinched a 6-3 4-6 (10-5) doubles win over Tsitsipas and Pervolarakis to help Australia win the tie 2-1 and keep their semi-final hopes alive after Tuesday's 3-0 drubbing by Spain. With the second edition of the competition truncated because of Australian Open coronavirus quarantine, victory for Fabio Fognini and Matteo Berrettini in the singles combined with Tuesday's 2-1 win over Austria ensured Italy would top Group C. Fognini downed Benoit Paire 6-1 7-6(2) in the opening match of the day on John Cain Arena before Matteo Berrettini outwitted Gael Monfils 6-4 6-2 to make France's doubles win academic. If that clash was one-sided, the Germany-Canada Group A tie was anything but with four of the fives sets in the two singles matches decided by tiebreakers. Germany's Jan-Lennard Struff dominated the first two and finished off Milos Raonic with a thumping ace for a 7-6(4) 7-6(2) victory that gave Germany a 1-0 lead in their opening tie. After losing 2-1 to Novak Djokovic's Serbia on Tuesday, Canada needed to win the tie to stay alive in the competition and Denis Shapovalov made a positive start by taking the first set against Alexander Zverev. Shapovalov, backing up after a loss to Djokovic, needed treatment on his shoulder as world number seven Zverev levelled up the contest in the second set, however. Zverev, in his first match of the year, warmed to his task in a tight deciding set but was unable to convert seven break points as Shapovalov dug deep. Shapovalov had his chances in the decisive tiebreak but an unforced error and a double fault at crucial moments opened the door for Zverev and the German stormed through it with his 14th and 15th aces for a 6-7(5) 6-3 7-6(4) victory. "Winning a team event, winning something for your country it's one of the biggest things in our sport," Zverev said. "I think the ATP Cup is just as big as the Davis Cup right now."

Russia join Italy in ATP Cup semis, hosts Australia stay alive

An Australian regulator is mulling more protections for internet users. It is considering new rules that could give users the right to choose the data tech giants can share with advertisers.

Gravitas: Australia takes another aim at Tech Giants

In a major escalation, Google threatened Friday to make its search engine unavailable in Australia if the government approved legislation that would force tech companies to pay for journalism shared on their platforms.

Facebook, which appeared with Google at an Australian Senate hearing, reaffirmed a threat of its own, vowing to block users in Australia from posting or sharing links to news if the bill passed.

In both cases, the dire warnings — which one senator called blackmail — revealed the apparent willingness of Facebook and Google to hide or erase reliable sources of information for millions of people at a time when social media platforms are under fire for helping misinformation spread worldwide.

The companies argue that they already help the media industry by sending it traffic and that the bill would open them up to “unmanageable levels of financial and operational risk.” The response by Google, which controls 95% of all queries in Australia in addition to owning YouTube, has grown particularly aggressive: The company recently buried major Australian news sites in search results in what it called an “experiment.”

But the precedent of paying for journalism does not, in itself, seem to be the issue.

A few hours before Google threatened to take away its search engine in Australia, the company agreed to pay news publications in France under an agreement that is likely to lead to more deals across Europe.

The battle in Australia centers on power: who gets to decide the payments, what prompts a charge for the tech companies and when do they have to reveal changes in their algorithms.

Australia’s assertive challenge to the online giants has placed it in the vanguard of a movement to bolster a traditional news media ecosystem that America’s trillion-dollar tech companies threaten with extinction. For Google and Facebook, their intense pushback has become a focal point of their global efforts to limit regulation, as governments around the world look to rein them in.

Here’s a summary of the fight:

Rapid vs. Prolonged Negotiations

Under Australia’s proposed legislation, if media companies and platforms like Google cannot agree on a price for news content, an independent arbitration body will resolve the dispute. That could amount to a first in the world.

The agreement in France lets Google negotiate with publishers using criteria the company has established, such as the contribution to general discussion, publication volume and audience size. Disputes would most likely go to court, where they could be bogged down for years, delaying payment.

Australia’s bill would streamline the process and strengthen the weaker side — the media.

As Rod Sims, chairman of Australia’s consumer protection regulator, explained: “The aim of the code is to address the uneven bargaining position between Australian news media businesses and the big digital platforms who have clear market power.”

The tech companies say it would create an incentive for media companies to jack up prices, sending cases to an arbiter who will determine final payment. They point to a government report estimating that 75% of the negotiations could end up with arbitrators.

Critics argue that Google and Facebook are simply trying to maintain their position as the ones who get to determine what news is worth.

“It’s about the external process being imposed on them by legislation, rather than by them just being able to dole out deals as they see fit,” said Peter Lewis, director of the Center for Responsible Technology at the Australia Institute, an independent research group. “It shifts the balance of power from their hands to a third party, and that’s what they can’t countenance.”

Links vs. Previews

The fight centers in part on a debate over the nature of search results and on the question of whether tech companies should pay for every article that Australians see on their platforms.

In a submission to Australia’s Senate inquiry about the proposal, Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web, wrote that “the code risks breaching a fundamental principle of the web by requiring payment for linking between certain content online.”

“The ability to link freely,” he added, “meaning without limitations regarding the content of the linked site and without monetary fees, is fundamental to how the web operates.”

Melanie Silva, managing director of Google Australia and New Zealand, made the same argument Friday in the Senate and in a video posted to Twitter, where she asked people to imagine recommending a few cafes to a friend — and then getting a bill from the cafes for sharing that information.

“When you put a price on linking to certain information, you break the way search engines work,” she said. “And you no longer have a free and open web.”

Google and Facebook (along with Twitter and others), however, do not simply link. They frame the work in previews, with headlines, summaries and photos, and then curate and serve up the content while sprinkling in advertisements.

Tama Leaver, a professor of internet studies at Curtin University in Perth, noted in a recent essay that this added value lessens the likelihood of someone clicking into the article, hurting media companies while improving the tech companies’ bottom line.

“It is often in that reframing that advertisements appear, and this is where these platforms make money,” he wrote. He added that the code could be adjusted to charge the companies only when they create previews, not just links.

But Sims, the main architect of the code, said Friday in the Senate that Google and Berners-Lee were simply wrong on the details.

“The code does not require Google and Facebook to pay for linking news content,” he said. “Indeed, discussions we are aware of have focused on paying upfront lump sum amounts, not per click.”

More broadly, lawmakers and public policy experts have argued that the companies do not just share information like a friend. They harvest details about their users in order to make what they share profitable.

As Lewis at the Australia Institute put it, they don’t just give you information about where to get coffee — they follow you to the cafe, watch what you order and where you go next, then sell that knowledge to companies that want to market you something else.

Sen. Rex Patrick accused Google of pretending to be concerned about “technical precedence.” In fact, he said, it’s all about “commercial precedence” — money.

Google Australia collected roughly $3.3 billion from Australian advertisers in 2019 and paid about $77 million in taxes, with a reported profit of about $637 million.

Secret Algorithms vs. Transparency

One potentially groundbreaking element of the proposed legislation involves the secret sauce of Facebook, Google and subsidiaries like YouTube: the algorithms that determine what people see when they search or scroll through the platforms.

Early drafts of the bill would have required that tech companies give their news media partners 28 days’ notice before making any changes that would affect how users interact with their content.

Google and Facebook said that would be impossible because their algorithms are always changing in ways that can be difficult to measure for a subset like news, so in the latest draft, lawmakers limited the scope.

If the bill passes in one form or another, which seems likely, the digital platforms will have to give the media 14 days’ notice of deliberate algorithm changes that significantly affect their businesses. Even that, some critics argue, is not enough for Big Tech.

“I think Google and Facebook are seriously worried that other countries will join in Australia’s effort,” said Johan Lidberg, a professor of media at Monash University in Melbourne. “This could eventually cause substantial revenue losses globally and serious loss of control, exemplified by the algorithm issue.”

But, he added, using threats to bully lawmakers will not do them any good.

“Google’s overreaction perfectly illustrates why the code is needed,” he said, “and beyond that, the dire need for all governments, across the globe, to join in efforts in reining in and limiting the power of these companies that is completely out of hand.”

In a major escalation, Google threatened Friday to make its search engine unavailable in Australia if the government approved legislation that would force tech companies to pay for journalism shared on their platforms.

In a major escalation, Google threatened Friday to make its search engine unavailable in Australia if the government approved legislation that would force tech companies to pay for journalism shared on their platforms. Facebook, which appeared with Google at an Australian Senate hearing, reaffirmed a threat of its own, vowing to block users in Australia from posting or sharing links to news if the bill passed. In both cases, the dire warnings — which one senator called blackmail — revealed the apparent willingness of Facebook and Google to hide or erase reliable sources of information for millions of people at a time when social media platforms are under fire for helping misinformation spread worldwide. The companies argue that they already help the media industry by sending it traffic and that the bill would open them up to “unmanageable levels of financial and operational risk.” The response by Google, which controls 95% of all queries in Australia in addition to owning YouTube, has grown particularly aggressive: The company recently buried major Australian news sites in search results in what it called an “experiment.” But the precedent of paying for journalism does not, in itself, seem to be the issue. A few hours before Google threatened to take away its search engine in Australia, the company agreed to pay news publications in France under an agreement that is likely to lead to more deals across Europe. The battle in Australia centers on power: who gets to decide the payments, what prompts a charge for the tech companies and when do they have to reveal changes in their algorithms. Australia’s assertive challenge to the online giants has placed it in the vanguard of a movement to bolster a traditional news media ecosystem that America’s trillion-dollar tech companies threaten with extinction. For Google and Facebook, their intense pushback has become a focal point of their global efforts to limit regulation, as governments around the world look to rein them in. Here’s a summary of the fight: Rapid vs. Prolonged Negotiations Under Australia’s proposed legislation, if media companies and platforms like Google cannot agree on a price for news content, an independent arbitration body will resolve the dispute. That could amount to a first in the world. The agreement in France lets Google negotiate with publishers using criteria the company has established, such as the contribution to general discussion, publication volume and audience size. Disputes would most likely go to court, where they could be bogged down for years, delaying payment. Australia’s bill would streamline the process and strengthen the weaker side — the media. As Rod Sims, chairman of Australia’s consumer protection regulator, explained: “The aim of the code is to address the uneven bargaining position between Australian news media businesses and the big digital platforms who have clear market power.” The tech companies say it would create an incentive for media companies to jack up prices, sending cases to an arbiter who will determine final payment. They point to a government report estimating that 75% of the negotiations could end up with arbitrators. Critics argue that Google and Facebook are simply trying to maintain their position as the ones who get to determine what news is worth. “It’s about the external process being imposed on them by legislation, rather than by them just being able to dole out deals as they see fit,” said Peter Lewis, director of the Center for Responsible Technology at the Australia Institute, an independent research group. “It shifts the balance of power from their hands to a third party, and that’s what they can’t countenance.” Links vs. Previews The fight centers in part on a debate over the nature of search results and on the question of whether tech companies should pay for every article that Australians see on their platforms. In a submission to Australia’s Senate inquiry about the proposal, Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web, wrote that “the code risks breaching a fundamental principle of the web by requiring payment for linking between certain content online.” “The ability to link freely,” he added, “meaning without limitations regarding the content of the linked site and without monetary fees, is fundamental to how the web operates.” Melanie Silva, managing director of Google Australia and New Zealand, made the same argument Friday in the Senate and in a video posted to Twitter, where she asked people to imagine recommending a few cafes to a friend — and then getting a bill from the cafes for sharing that information. “When you put a price on linking to certain information, you break the way search engines work,” she said. “And you no longer have a free and open web.” Google and Facebook (along with Twitter and others), however, do not simply link. They frame the work in previews, with headlines, summaries and photos, and then curate and serve up the content while sprinkling in advertisements. Tama Leaver, a professor of internet studies at Curtin University in Perth, noted in a recent essay that this added value lessens the likelihood of someone clicking into the article, hurting media companies while improving the tech companies’ bottom line. “It is often in that reframing that advertisements appear, and this is where these platforms make money,” he wrote. He added that the code could be adjusted to charge the companies only when they create previews, not just links. But Sims, the main architect of the code, said Friday in the Senate that Google and Berners-Lee were simply wrong on the details. “The code does not require Google and Facebook to pay for linking news content,” he said. “Indeed, discussions we are aware of have focused on paying upfront lump sum amounts, not per click.” More broadly, lawmakers and public policy experts have argued that the companies do not just share information like a friend. They harvest details about their users in order to make what they share profitable. As Lewis at the Australia Institute put it, they don’t just give you information about where to get coffee — they follow you to the cafe, watch what you order and where you go next, then sell that knowledge to companies that want to market you something else. Sen. Rex Patrick accused Google of pretending to be concerned about “technical precedence.” In fact, he said, it’s all about “commercial precedence” — money. Google Australia collected roughly $3.3 billion from Australian advertisers in 2019 and paid about $77 million in taxes, with a reported profit of about $637 million. Secret Algorithms vs. Transparency One potentially groundbreaking element of the proposed legislation involves the secret sauce of Facebook, Google and subsidiaries like YouTube: the algorithms that determine what people see when they search or scroll through the platforms. Early drafts of the bill would have required that tech companies give their news media partners 28 days’ notice before making any changes that would affect how users interact with their content. Google and Facebook said that would be impossible because their algorithms are always changing in ways that can be difficult to measure for a subset like news, so in the latest draft, lawmakers limited the scope. If the bill passes in one form or another, which seems likely, the digital platforms will have to give the media 14 days’ notice of deliberate algorithm changes that significantly affect their businesses. Even that, some critics argue, is not enough for Big Tech. “I think Google and Facebook are seriously worried that other countries will join in Australia’s effort,” said Johan Lidberg, a professor of media at Monash University in Melbourne. “This could eventually cause substantial revenue losses globally and serious loss of control, exemplified by the algorithm issue.” But, he added, using threats to bully lawmakers will not do them any good. “Google’s overreaction perfectly illustrates why the code is needed,” he said, “and beyond that, the dire need for all governments, across the globe, to join in efforts in reining in and limiting the power of these companies that is completely out of hand.”

An Australia with no Google? The bitter fight behind a drastic threat

Australia's federal sports minister Richard Colbeck on Thursday announced that the country aims to vaccinate its Olympians against coronavirus before they head to Tokyo Games.

Australia's federal sports minister Richard Colbeck on Thursday announced that the country aims to vaccinate its Olympians against coronavirus before they head to Tokyo Games. ALSO READ: 'Vaccination not a silver bullet': IOC chief Thomas Bach urges athletes to not jump queue In an interview with the Canberra Times, Colbeck said that the body coordinating the vaccination rollout plan suggested that athletes would likely be inoculated before the July 23-August 8 Games. "If our plans work OK it may very well be conceivable that Olympic athletes, for example, we'll get to them before they head off to the Games anyway," he was quoted as saying. The minister went on to say that "older Australians, frontline workers and those with underlying medical conditions" would be prioritised and that "most athletes" would be vaccinated in a later phase of the rollout. ALSO READ: Insurers face 'mind-blowingly' large loss if Olympics cancelled This move comes after IOC chief Thomas Bach's statement on Wednesday, where he said that vaccines are not a 'silver bullet', however, the IOC is encouraging the everyone to accept vaccination. "Vaccination is not the silver bullet which solves all problems. It is part of the countermeasures for Tokyo 2020. We are encouraging everybody to accept vaccination. But athletes should not jump the queue," IOC chief said. Several international federations, including Israel's Olympic Committee, have already begun vaccination drive for their Olympic delegation before the Games kick-off. The Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) said it hoped athletes could be vaccinated but said vulnerable people and health workers must come first. "We are recommending and encouraging our athletes to get vaccinated but support the IOC position that it’s not mandatory," an AOC spokesman said. (Inputs from Reuters)

Australia aiming to vaccinate Olympians before Tokyo Games

In Australia, citizens are gearing up for a life without Google. While in India, Whatsapp's changes to its privacy policy are facing legal scrutiny. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how India and Australia are standing up to the bullying of Big Tech.

Gravitas: Will India and Australia dictate the global rules for big tech?

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