A man has died after being bitten by a shark at a beach popular with tourists on Australia's northwest coast.

The man's death marks the eighth fatal shark attack in Australian waters this year.

On Sunday, police were called to a Cable Beach in the morning after reports of the attack -- when the man was pulled from the water and given medical treatment but later succumbed to his injuries.

"Police can confirm that tragically the man has died," Western Australia police said in a statement.

Shark attacks are rare on Cable Beach, a 22-kilometre (13-mile) stretch of pristine white sand next to the town of Broome.

But authorities are generally forced to close the beach once or twice a year when deadly saltwater crocodiles are spotted nearby.&nbsp;

There have been at least 22 shark maulings this year, according to the Taronga Conservation Society Australia government agency.

A man has died after being bitten by a shark at a beach popular with tourists on Australia's northwest coast. The man's death marks the eighth fatal shark attack in Australian waters this year.

A man has died after being bitten by a shark at a beach popular with tourists on Australia's northwest coast. The man's death marks the eighth fatal shark attack in Australian waters this year. On Sunday, police were called to a Cable Beach in the morning after reports of the attack -- when the man was pulled from the water and given medical treatment but later succumbed to his injuries. "Police can confirm that tragically the man has died," Western Australia police said in a statement. Shark attacks are rare on Cable Beach, a 22-kilometre (13-mile) stretch of pristine white sand next to the town of Broome. But authorities are generally forced to close the beach once or twice a year when deadly saltwater crocodiles are spotted nearby. There have been at least 22 shark maulings this year, according to the Taronga Conservation Society Australia government agency.

Man dies in shark attack off Australia's west coast

Commenting for the first time publicly on the report that found that Australia's special forces killed 39 civilians in Afghanistan illegally, Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday said the findings are "terribly disturbing".&nbsp;

"This is a terrible, terribly disturbing and distressing report," Morrison said, as quoted by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-troops-unlawfully-killed-39-civilians-and-prisoners-in-afghanistan-says-top-official-343987#:~:text=On%20Thursday%2C%20Australia's%20top%20military,rules%20and%20unlawfully%20killed%20civilians.">Australian troops 'unlawfully killed' 39 civilians and prisoners in Afghanistan, says top official</a>

However, he said that Australia knows how to "deal with it", adding that action will be taken "under our law, under our systems, and our justice system."

A years-long internal probe found shocking revelations, including coercion of newly recruited military personnel to shoot, engaging in "body count competitions", among others.&nbsp;

The military's own inspector general released the 465-page official inquiry into events that took place between 2005 and 2016.&nbsp;

Morrison had also called his Afghan counterpart on Wednesday where he underscored "some disturbing allegations" and added that the government taking them "very seriously".

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's office said the Australian PM had "expressed his deepest sorrow over the misconduct".

Kabul has described the findings of the report as "unforgivable" but appreciated its release as an "important step towards justice".

There has been widespread criticism post the release of the report by the Australians, who greatly admire and take pride in their nation's military. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Commenting for the first time publicly on the report that found that Australia's special forces killed 39 civilians in Afghanistan illegally, Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday said the findings are "terribly disturbing".

Commenting for the first time publicly on the report that found that Australia's special forces killed 39 civilians in Afghanistan illegally, Prime Minister Scott Morrison on Saturday said the findings are "terribly disturbing". "This is a terrible, terribly disturbing and distressing report," Morrison said, as quoted by news agency Reuters. Also read | Australian troops 'unlawfully killed' 39 civilians and prisoners in Afghanistan, says top official However, he said that Australia knows how to "deal with it", adding that action will be taken "under our law, under our systems, and our justice system." A years-long internal probe found shocking revelations, including coercion of newly recruited military personnel to shoot, engaging in "body count competitions", among others. The military's own inspector general released the 465-page official inquiry into events that took place between 2005 and 2016. Morrison had also called his Afghan counterpart on Wednesday where he underscored "some disturbing allegations" and added that the government taking them "very seriously". Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's office said the Australian PM had "expressed his deepest sorrow over the misconduct". Kabul has described the findings of the report as "unforgivable" but appreciated its release as an "important step towards justice". There has been widespread criticism post the release of the report by the Australians, who greatly admire and take pride in their nation's military.

'Terribly disturbing': Australian PM reacts publicly on 'unlawful' killings report

The Indian Ocean is crucial to China's trade and energy. But it is India that enjoys a strategic advantage in these waters. What happens if India decides to stage a blockade? WION's Molly Gambhir tells you the answer.

Gravitas: Why China fears India

The Chief of Australia's Defence Force General Angus Campbell has apologised to Afghanistan for War Crimes committed by Australian troops. WION's Molly Gambhir gets you a report on the shocking revelations.

Gravitas: Australia's 'war crimes' in Afghanistan

Australian all-rounder Glen Maxwell was dubbed as the most expensive flop in this year's Indian Premier League. He was bought by KXIP for a whopping Rs 10.75 crore.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pat-cummins-names-big-wicket-in-india-vs-australia-series-344274" hreflang="en">Pat Cummins names 'big wicket' in India vs Australia series</a>

Maxwell scored 108 runs in this tournament and failed to smash even one six, he only scalped 3 wickets in 21 overs he bowled. Despite his disappointing performance, Maxwell was only dropped in KXIP's final league stage match.&nbsp;

KXIP's Former Director of Cricket, Virender Sehwag, took a jibe at the Aussie and called him a "10 crore cheerleader". While speaking on his show, Viru ki Baithak, he said: "Glenn Maxwell. This 10 crore cheerleader proved very costly for Punjab. His IPL routine for the last few years has been of shirking from work but this season he broke that record as well. This is what you call a highly paid vacation."

The Australian has responded to former India and KXIP player's opinion. He told The West Australian: "It’s ok. Viru is pretty outspoken with his dislike of me, and that’s fine. He’s allowed to say whatever he likes. He’s in the media for such statements, so that’s fine. I deal with that and move on, and take it with a grain of salt with Sehwag."

Australian all-rounder Glen Maxwell was dubbed as the most expensive flop in this year's Indian Premier League. He was bought by KXIP for a whopping Rs 10.75 crore.

Australian all-rounder Glen Maxwell was dubbed as the most expensive flop in this year's Indian Premier League. He was bought by KXIP for a whopping Rs 10.75 crore. Also read: Pat Cummins names 'big wicket' in India vs Australia series Maxwell scored 108 runs in this tournament and failed to smash even one six, he only scalped 3 wickets in 21 overs he bowled. Despite his disappointing performance, Maxwell was only dropped in KXIP's final league stage match. KXIP's Former Director of Cricket, Virender Sehwag, took a jibe at the Aussie and called him a "10 crore cheerleader". While speaking on his show, Viru ki Baithak, he said: "Glenn Maxwell. This 10 crore cheerleader proved very costly for Punjab. His IPL routine for the last few years has been of shirking from work but this season he broke that record as well. This is what you call a highly paid vacation." The Australian has responded to former India and KXIP player's opinion. He told The West Australian: "It’s ok. Viru is pretty outspoken with his dislike of me, and that’s fine. He’s allowed to say whatever he likes. He’s in the media for such statements, so that’s fine. I deal with that and move on, and take it with a grain of salt with Sehwag."

'I deal with..': Glenn Maxwell responds to Virender Sehwag's '10 crore cheerleader' jibe

Australia will not bow to pressure from China, Prime Minister Scott Morrison insisted on Thursday after Beijing released a laundry list of complaints about the country.&nbsp;

A Chinese official gave a dossier to Australian media containing 14 grievances, highlighting the increasingly fractious relationship between the two nations.

"If you make China the enemy, China will be the enemy," a Chinese government official reportedly told three prominent outlets on Wednesday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-troops-unlawfully-killed-39-civilians-and-prisoners-in-afghanistan-says-top-official-343987" hreflang="en">Australian troops 'unlawfully killed' 39 civilians and prisoners in Afghanistan, says top official</a>

Among the complaints are Australia's strict foreign interference laws, the country's ban on Huawei's involvement in its 5G network and decisions that blocked Chinese investment projects on "national security grounds".

Morrison said the "unofficial document" came from the Chinese embassy and would not stop Australia from setting "our own laws and our own rules according to our national interest".

"We won't be compromising on the fact that we will set what our foreign investment laws are or how we build our 5G telecommunications networks or how we run our systems of protecting against interference Australia's way we run our country," he told Channel Nine.&nbsp;

The document also claimed Canberra had engaged in "incessant wanton interference" in China's affairs while singling out Australia's call for an independent inquiry into the origins of the coronavirus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-appoints-afghanistan-war-crimes-prosecutor-342532">Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison appoints Afghanistan war crimes prosecutor</a>

It accused Australia of "siding with the US' anti-China campaign and spreading disinformation" about where the virus originated -- a particularly sore point for Beijing.&nbsp;

The United States weighed in on the diplomatic rift Thursday, with the White House National Security Council saying on Twitter that "Beijing is upset Australia took steps to expose and thwart Chinese espionage &amp; to protect Aussie sovereignty".

"It's encouraging to see a growing number of countries following Canberra's lead in taking such steps," the tweet continued.

Relations between Canberra and Beijing have reached a new low in recent months, leaving Australian government ministers unable to persuade Chinese counterparts to even accept their phone calls.

The rift has left Australian exporters exposed as their largest trading partner places a series of retaliatory bans on agricultural goods including beef, barley and timber.

The latest diplomatic salvo comes just days after Morrison reached an in-principle agreement on bolstering defence relations with Japan's leader Yoshihide Suga, a move widely viewed as aimed at countering Chinese influence in the region.

Australia will not bow to pressure from China, Prime Minister Scott Morrison insisted on Thursday after Beijing released a laundry list of complaints about the country.

Australia will not bow to pressure from China, Prime Minister Scott Morrison insisted on Thursday after Beijing released a laundry list of complaints about the country. A Chinese official gave a dossier to Australian media containing 14 grievances, highlighting the increasingly fractious relationship between the two nations. "If you make China the enemy, China will be the enemy," a Chinese government official reportedly told three prominent outlets on Wednesday. Also read| Australian troops 'unlawfully killed' 39 civilians and prisoners in Afghanistan, says top official Among the complaints are Australia's strict foreign interference laws, the country's ban on Huawei's involvement in its 5G network and decisions that blocked Chinese investment projects on "national security grounds". Morrison said the "unofficial document" came from the Chinese embassy and would not stop Australia from setting "our own laws and our own rules according to our national interest". "We won't be compromising on the fact that we will set what our foreign investment laws are or how we build our 5G telecommunications networks or how we run our systems of protecting against interference Australia's way we run our country," he told Channel Nine. The document also claimed Canberra had engaged in "incessant wanton interference" in China's affairs while singling out Australia's call for an independent inquiry into the origins of the coronavirus. Also read| Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison appoints Afghanistan war crimes prosecutor It accused Australia of "siding with the US' anti-China campaign and spreading disinformation" about where the virus originated -- a particularly sore point for Beijing. The United States weighed in on the diplomatic rift Thursday, with the White House National Security Council saying on Twitter that "Beijing is upset Australia took steps to expose and thwart Chinese espionage & to protect Aussie sovereignty". "It's encouraging to see a growing number of countries following Canberra's lead in taking such steps," the tweet continued. Relations between Canberra and Beijing have reached a new low in recent months, leaving Australian government ministers unable to persuade Chinese counterparts to even accept their phone calls. The rift has left Australian exporters exposed as their largest trading partner places a series of retaliatory bans on agricultural goods including beef, barley and timber. The latest diplomatic salvo comes just days after Morrison reached an in-principle agreement on bolstering defence relations with Japan's leader Yoshihide Suga, a move widely viewed as aimed at countering Chinese influence in the region.

Australian PM rebuffs Chinese grievance list

Navies of India, Australia, Japan and the US are participating in the Malabar exercise. China's state mouthpiece - Global times say the drills are an obvious step towards a 'mini-NATO'. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you how the QUAD alliance is evolving with the Malabar exercise.

Gravitas: What China thinks about the Malabar Exercise

Australia and Japan are deepening their defence partnership. The allies have reached a broad agreement that allows their forces to train in each other's territory. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you how this pact could strengthen the QUAD.

Gravitas: How Australia and Japan could strengthen the QUAD

The United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand accused China of violating its commitments by ousting Hong Kong's pro-democracy lawmakers.&nbsp;

The foreign ministers of the five ally nations said Beijing is acting against its 1984 promise that it would preserve autonomy in the region following its hand over by the UK in 1997. &nbsp;

Also read | &nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swiss-photographer-found-not-guilty-of-aiding-hong-kong-attack-342928#:~:text=A%20Swiss%20photographer%2C%20Marc%20Progin,not%20guilty%20in%20the%20court.">Swiss photographer found not guilty of aiding Hong Kong attack</a>

"China's action is a clear breach of its international obligations under the legally binding, UN-registered Sino-British Joint Declaration," said the joint statement of the four countries, as reported by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-are-some-pro-democracy-activists-in-hong-kong-taiwan-still-hoping-for-trump-victory-342894">Why are some pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, Taiwan still hoping for Trump victory?</a>

Calling the move by China on Hong Kong a "concerted campaign to silence all critical voices," the allies urge Chinese and Hong Kongese authorities to respect legitimate "concerns and opinions" for "the sake of Hong Kong's stability and prosperity".&nbsp;

The foreign ministers were reacting on Beijing's latest move to silence dissent in Hong Kong by the removal of four opposition lawmakers, which caused the en masse resignation of their remaining colleagues.&nbsp;

China's parliament body last week issued a decree that local authorities could expel any political leader seen as a threat to national security without the permission of courts.&nbsp;

Minutes later, Hong Kong officials implemented the decree.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand accused China of violating its commitments by ousting Hong Kong's pro-democracy lawmakers. The foreign ministers of the five ally nations said Beijing is acting against its 1984 promise that it would preserve autonomy in the region following its hand over by the UK in 1997.

The United States, United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand accused China of violating its commitments by ousting Hong Kong's pro-democracy lawmakers. The foreign ministers of the five ally nations said Beijing is acting against its 1984 promise that it would preserve autonomy in the region following its hand over by the UK in 1997. Also read | Swiss photographer found not guilty of aiding Hong Kong attack "China's action is a clear breach of its international obligations under the legally binding, UN-registered Sino-British Joint Declaration," said the joint statement of the four countries, as reported by news agency AFP. Also read | Why are some pro-democracy activists in Hong Kong, Taiwan still hoping for Trump victory? Calling the move by China on Hong Kong a "concerted campaign to silence all critical voices," the allies urge Chinese and Hong Kongese authorities to respect legitimate "concerns and opinions" for "the sake of Hong Kong's stability and prosperity". The foreign ministers were reacting on Beijing's latest move to silence dissent in Hong Kong by the removal of four opposition lawmakers, which caused the en masse resignation of their remaining colleagues. China's parliament body last week issued a decree that local authorities could expel any political leader seen as a threat to national security without the permission of courts. Minutes later, Hong Kong officials implemented the decree.

US, UK, and other allies accuse China of violating commitments by ousting Hong Kong leaders

Australia's top general said that, there was credible evidence that his special forces unlawfully killed 39 unarmed civilians and prisoners during the war in Afghanistan, referring the matter to a special war crimes prosecutor.

Aussie troops guilty of 'unlawfully killing' 39 Afghans

COVID-19 spread rising day by day as W.H.O. reports 660,905 covid cases around the globe. New cases has raised the concern of new Outbreak alert in Australia

W.H.O. reports 660,905 Coronavirus cases  on November 15,  Australia back on outbreak alert

The 15 countries that signed the deal span the Asia-Pacific region including China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, along with the 10 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Indian will not join RCEP even as an observer, govt sources confirm to WION

Australian High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farell met RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday and said the organisation has been actively supporting the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The @RSSorg has been actively supporting the community during COVID19. I met with Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat who shared the relief measures the organisation has adopted across India during these challenging times," O'Farrell tweeted.

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The <a href="https://twitter.com/RSSorg?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RSSorg</a> has been actively supporting the community during <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. I met with Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat who shared the relief measures the organisation has adopted across 🇮🇳 during these challenging times. <a href="https://t.co/2LhniF2ven">pic.twitter.com/2LhniF2ven</a>
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He also tweeted pictures of the meeting which took place at Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Nagpur.

Last year, a meeting was held between Bhagwat and German ambassador Walter J Lindner. The RSS keeps having such meetings in keeping with its outreach initiatives.

Australian High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farell met RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday and said the organisation has been actively supporting the community during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Australian High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farell met RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat on Sunday and said the organisation has been actively supporting the community during the COVID-19 pandemic. "The @RSSorg has been actively supporting the community during COVID19. I met with Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat who shared the relief measures the organisation has adopted across India during these challenging times," O'Farrell tweeted. The @RSSorg has been actively supporting the community during #COVID19. I met with Sarsanghchalak Dr Mohan Bhagwat who shared the relief measures the organisation has adopted across 🇮🇳 during these challenging times. pic.twitter.com/2LhniF2ven — Barry O’Farrell AO (@AusHCIndia) November 15, 2020 × He also tweeted pictures of the meeting which took place at Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) headquarters in Nagpur. Last year, a meeting was held between Bhagwat and German ambassador Walter J Lindner. The RSS keeps having such meetings in keeping with its outreach initiatives.

Aus envoy meets Mohan Bhagwat, says RSS actively supporting community amid Covid-19 crisis

Australian coach Justin Langer revealed what went wrong during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and how Virat Kohli's team deserved to create history after winning the series.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-love-to-hate-him-but-we-also-love-to-australias-tim-paine-on-virat-kohli-343113" hreflang="en">'We love to hate him but we also love to..': Australia's Tim Paine on Virat Kohli</a>

Indian team, led by Virat Kohli, registered their names in the history books as they beat Australia on their soil to register their first Test series win Down Under in 71 years. Australia, in that series, were playing without Steve Smith and David Warner. However, India managed to beat the Aussies despite their lethal pace attack.&nbsp;

"If I go back to that time (2018-19), we lost a toss at the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) after winning the Perth Test match - lost the toss on possibly the flattest wicket I’ve seen in Test cricket... and they (India) bowled for nearly two days," Langer was quoted as saying by The Age newspaper.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/best-player-ive-ever-seen-in-my-life-aussie-coach-justin-langer-praises-this-indian-batsman-342905">'Best player I’ve ever seen in my life': Aussie coach Justin Langer praises this Indian batsman</a>

"And then we had to back it up and play at the SCG (Sydney Cricket Ground) the next Test match on a pretty flat wicket as well."

"Not making excuses, but it was tough going back then. India were on top of their game, they deserved to beat us for the first time in their history. But our guys are two years better and a lot of the Indians are the same, more experienced. I can’t wait to see them go. Can’t wait," Langer added.

Earlier, Australia coach Justin Langer had said that it’s tough not to be happy knowing that Kohli will miss three Tests.

"I’ve said this before, he is probably the best player I’ve ever seen in my life for so many reasons," Langer told reporters in a video call.

Langer also lauded Kohli's decision to take paternity leave to be with his wife.&nbsp;

"I’ve also got respect for him in the sense that he’s made this decision (to return for the birth)."

"He’s a human being like all of us... if I was giving advice to any of my players I would always say never, ever miss the birth of your children because it is one of the great things you’ll ever do," the former Australia opener added.

Australian coach Justin Langer revealed what went wrong during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and how Virat Kohli's team deserved to create history after winning the series.

Australian coach Justin Langer revealed what went wrong during the 2018-19 Border-Gavaskar Trophy and how Virat Kohli's team deserved to create history after winning the series. Also read: 'We love to hate him but we also love to..': Australia's Tim Paine on Virat Kohli Indian team, led by Virat Kohli, registered their names in the history books as they beat Australia on their soil to register their first Test series win Down Under in 71 years. Australia, in that series, were playing without Steve Smith and David Warner. However, India managed to beat the Aussies despite their lethal pace attack. "If I go back to that time (2018-19), we lost a toss at the MCG (Melbourne Cricket Ground) after winning the Perth Test match - lost the toss on possibly the flattest wicket I’ve seen in Test cricket... and they (India) bowled for nearly two days," Langer was quoted as saying by The Age newspaper. Also read: 'Best player I’ve ever seen in my life': Aussie coach Justin Langer praises this Indian batsman "And then we had to back it up and play at the SCG (Sydney Cricket Ground) the next Test match on a pretty flat wicket as well." "Not making excuses, but it was tough going back then. India were on top of their game, they deserved to beat us for the first time in their history. But our guys are two years better and a lot of the Indians are the same, more experienced. I can’t wait to see them go. Can’t wait," Langer added. Earlier, Australia coach Justin Langer had said that it’s tough not to be happy knowing that Kohli will miss three Tests. "I’ve said this before, he is probably the best player I’ve ever seen in my life for so many reasons," Langer told reporters in a video call. Langer also lauded Kohli's decision to take paternity leave to be with his wife. "I’ve also got respect for him in the sense that he’s made this decision (to return for the birth)." "He’s a human being like all of us... if I was giving advice to any of my players I would always say never, ever miss the birth of your children because it is one of the great things you’ll ever do," the former Australia opener added.

'India were on top of their game', Aussie coach Justin Langer on 2018-19 Test series defeat

US President-elect <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> dialled US allies, Australia, South Korea and Japan on Thursday as he delivered the message of reassurance to American commitments in the region.&nbsp;

Despite Donald Trump's refusal to accept defeat, the head of states of all the three nations earlier congratulated Biden on his victory.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-makes-first-white-house-appointment-names-klain-as-chief-of-staff-342522">Joe Biden makes first White House appointment, names Klain as Chief of Staff</a>

In his conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, the latter told Biden about the "increasingly severe" security situation in the region, as per various Japanese officials.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-of-america-is-back-in-the-game-joe-biden-tells-world-leaders-342283">United States of America is ‘back in the game’: Joe Biden tells world leaders</a>

Biden, in his response, spoke of America's "deep commitment to the defence of Japan" and to decades-old treaty obligations, as per his transition team.

In a move likely to invite Beijing's wrath, the president-elect reportedly confirmed this defence commitment extended to the Senkakus, an uninhabited island chain claimed by both Japan and China which has been a major conflicting issue for decades.

Biden, in his 14-minute-conversation with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, said to have called the US-South Korea partnership as "the linchpin of security and prosperity" in the region and vowed to work collectively on "shared challenges", including North Korea and climate change.

South Korea's presidential Blue House said both leaders had agreed to meet "as soon as possible" after Biden's swearing-in.&nbsp;

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In his call with Australian PM Scott Morrison, Biden reportedly highlighted the need of "confronting climate change", which the conservative government in Canberra has been criticised for severely in recent times.&nbsp;

However, describing the call as "very warm", Morrison said Biden did not speak on net-zero carbon targets, focussing instead on "emissions reduction technologies".

Biden was also invited to visit Australia next year for the 70th anniversary of a security treaty between both the nations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US President-elect Joe Biden dialled US allies, Australia, South Korea and Japan on Thursday as he delivered the message of reassurance to American commitments in the region.

US President-elect Joe Biden dialled US allies, Australia, South Korea and Japan on Thursday as he delivered the message of reassurance to American commitments in the region. Despite Donald Trump's refusal to accept defeat, the head of states of all the three nations earlier congratulated Biden on his victory. Also read | Joe Biden makes first White House appointment, names Klain as Chief of Staff In his conversation with Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, the latter told Biden about the "increasingly severe" security situation in the region, as per various Japanese officials. Also read | United States of America is ‘back in the game’: Joe Biden tells world leaders Biden, in his response, spoke of America's "deep commitment to the defence of Japan" and to decades-old treaty obligations, as per his transition team. In a move likely to invite Beijing's wrath, the president-elect reportedly confirmed this defence commitment extended to the Senkakus, an uninhabited island chain claimed by both Japan and China which has been a major conflicting issue for decades. Biden, in his 14-minute-conversation with South Korean President Moon Jae-in, said to have called the US-South Korea partnership as "the linchpin of security and prosperity" in the region and vowed to work collectively on "shared challenges", including North Korea and climate change. South Korea's presidential Blue House said both leaders had agreed to meet "as soon as possible" after Biden's swearing-in. × In his call with Australian PM Scott Morrison, Biden reportedly highlighted the need of "confronting climate change", which the conservative government in Canberra has been criticised for severely in recent times. However, describing the call as "very warm", Morrison said Biden did not speak on net-zero carbon targets, focussing instead on "emissions reduction technologies". Biden was also invited to visit Australia next year for the 70th anniversary of a security treaty between both the nations.

Joe Biden dials Asian Pacific allies, reassures American commitments

The Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has extended wishes to Indians across the globe for Diwali saying the festival carries&nbsp;"a special significance" this year as the world has been taken over by the coronavirus pandemic.

In a video recorded message, he talked about the idea behind the Indian festival and talked about every year the festival is celebrated to signify the spiritual victory of goodness and light over evil and darkness. However, this year the pandemic has taken the celebrations away as majoirty of the countries are struglling to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-sonias-beauty-to-manmohans-integrity-heres-what-barack-obama-wrote-on-congress-leaders-342800" hreflang="en">From Sonia's beauty to Manmohan's 'integrity': Here's what Barack Obama wrote on Congress leaders</a>

"Most years, we often think of this dispelling of darkness as a theoretical concept rather than something that is experienced and overcome. This year, Diwali's message has a special significance," Prime Minister Morrison said in a video message released recently.

"Every nation on earth is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Lives and livelihoods have been lost as we have witnessed the most dramatic shock in generations. Despite this, we have a common hope. Throughout 2020, despite our own fears, we have supported each other, encouraged each other, and stood with each other," he said.

"We have drawn strength and inspiration from our medical professionals, teachers, cleaners, retail staff, police and defence force personnel and so many more who have responded to the crisis with compassion and professionalism," he added.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/australian-prime-minister-scott-morrison-appoints-afghanistan-war-crimes-prosecutor-342532">Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison appoints Afghanistan war crimes prosecutor</a>

Taking the same message further, he also added about how he is proud of all of his countrymen and others around the globe who have come forward to support each other in these tough times. Talking about the multi-culture in Australia, Scott Morrison talked sent across a message of positivity. "I pay tribute to all those who have brought this tradition to our shores," he said.

"Yes, we have seen darkness this year, but the light is overcoming that darkness. There is light ahead, and there is hope. Warmest greetings to everyone celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights. It's a special moment for people of many faiths," he added.

Asutralia has now come out of a second lockdown which was imposed after the Vitoria state and Melbourne failed to contain the spread of coronavirus in the last few months, hinting towards a second wave of the deadly virus.

The Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has extended wishes to Indians across the globe for Diwali saying the festival carries "a special significance" this year as the world has been taken over by the coronavirus pandemic.

The Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has extended wishes to Indians across the globe for Diwali saying the festival carries "a special significance" this year as the world has been taken over by the coronavirus pandemic. In a video recorded message, he talked about the idea behind the Indian festival and talked about every year the festival is celebrated to signify the spiritual victory of goodness and light over evil and darkness. However, this year the pandemic has taken the celebrations away as majoirty of the countries are struglling to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus. Also read| From Sonia's beauty to Manmohan's 'integrity': Here's what Barack Obama wrote on Congress leaders "Most years, we often think of this dispelling of darkness as a theoretical concept rather than something that is experienced and overcome. This year, Diwali's message has a special significance," Prime Minister Morrison said in a video message released recently. "Every nation on earth is responding to the COVID-19 pandemic. Lives and livelihoods have been lost as we have witnessed the most dramatic shock in generations. Despite this, we have a common hope. Throughout 2020, despite our own fears, we have supported each other, encouraged each other, and stood with each other," he said. "We have drawn strength and inspiration from our medical professionals, teachers, cleaners, retail staff, police and defence force personnel and so many more who have responded to the crisis with compassion and professionalism," he added. Also read| Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison appoints Afghanistan war crimes prosecutor Taking the same message further, he also added about how he is proud of all of his countrymen and others around the globe who have come forward to support each other in these tough times. Talking about the multi-culture in Australia, Scott Morrison talked sent across a message of positivity. "I pay tribute to all those who have brought this tradition to our shores," he said. "Yes, we have seen darkness this year, but the light is overcoming that darkness. There is light ahead, and there is hope. Warmest greetings to everyone celebrating Diwali, the festival of lights. It's a special moment for people of many faiths," he added. Asutralia has now come out of a second lockdown which was imposed after the Vitoria state and Melbourne failed to contain the spread of coronavirus in the last few months, hinting towards a second wave of the deadly virus.

Australian PM Scott Morrison sends Diwali message amid COVID-19 pandemic

US President-elect Joe Biden in phone calls with the leaders of Australia, Japan and South Korea emphasised on maintaining a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

Joe Biden's call to Asian leaders amid growing China threat

Australia's New Year fireworks show over Sydney Harbour will go ahead, but the number of people at popular viewing spots will be limited to avoid the spread of COVID-19, the country's most populous state declared on Monday (November 9).

Australia gives go-ahead to scale down New Year's Eve celebrations

Out of New South Wales' quiet country, a larger-than-life mural painted on grain silos has brought an artistic flourish to the once barren landscape.

Australian artist paints larger-than-life silo mural

The Australian government has agreed to purchase two more COVID-19 vaccines in development, beefing up the country`s prospective arsenal against the pandemic to 135 million doses as it aims to complete a mass inoculation programme within months.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Thursday the government will buy 40 million vaccine doses from Novavax, and 10 million from Pfizer and BioNTech.

That adds to the 85 million doses Australia has already committed to buy from AstraZeneca and CSL Ltd should trials prove successful, taking the country`s total anticipated outlay to A$3.2 billion ($2.3 billion).

"We aren`t putting all our eggs in one basket," Morrison told reporters in Sydney.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-hunt-for-virus-source-who-let-china-take-charge-340029">In hunt for virus source, WHO let China take charge</a>

Health Minister Greg Hunt said the Novavax and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines, which will be manufacturd in the United States and Europe, would complement the AstraZeneca and CSL products, which would be manufactured in Australia.

"That means we are now in a very strong position with the portfolio of four different vaccines, two protein, one viral vector and one MRMA, which is the Pfizer vaccine, and that`s innovative - the world hasn`t had an MRMA vaccine before," Hunt told TV broadcaster Nine Network.

The Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca and Novavax vaccines are considered to be among the leading candidates in the global race to receive regulatory approval.

Should trials prove successful, Australia expects to receive the first batches of the AstraZeneca vaccine in early 2021 and begin a mass rollout in March to be completed by the end of the year.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-bars-arrivals-from-uk-belgium-due-to-second-covid-19-waves-340721" hreflang="en">Beijing bars arrivals from UK, Belgium due to second COVID-19 waves</a>

If all four vaccines come to market, Australia and its population of 26 million people will find itself with excess doses, even allowing for the fact that many of the candidates in development require two doses to be effective.

Australia has said it plans to donate any excess doses to Pacific Island countries and has committed to spending around A$525 million to ensure Pacific nations and East Timor achieve full immunisation coverage.

Australia is the largest aid donor to the Pacific islands and has sought in recent months to step up its engagement out of concern it risks being overshadowed by Chinese aid and financial support.

Zero local transmission

The announcement of the new planned vaccine purchases came as Australia recorded no cases of locally transmitted COVID-19 over the past 24 hours for the second time in a week. The country on Sunday recorded the first day without any local cases since early June.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-registers-highest-covid-19-cases-in-24-hours-amid-elections-340645" hreflang="en">US registers highest COVID-19 cases in 24 hours amid elections</a>

Australia has reported just over 27,600 coronavirus cases and 907 deaths, far fewer than most other developed countries thanks to extensive testing, contact tracing and lockdowns.

As national case numbers have slowed slowed to fewer than 10 each day, states and territories have been reopening borders and relaxing differing levels of social distancing restrictions.

Qantas Airways on Thursday said it would boost the number of flights between New South Wales and Victoria states after officials announced on Wednesday that border restrictions would be lifted later this month.

The national carrier will go from the ten return flights it is currently operating each week between Sydney and Melbourne to more than 250 flights between the two states weekly. The Sydney-Melbourne route was one of the busiest in the world before the pandemic.

The Australian government has agreed to purchase two more COVID-19 vaccines in development, beefing up the country`s prospective arsenal against the pandemic to 135 million doses as it aims to complete a mass inoculation programme within months.

The Australian government has agreed to purchase two more COVID-19 vaccines in development, beefing up the country`s prospective arsenal against the pandemic to 135 million doses as it aims to complete a mass inoculation programme within months. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said on Thursday the government will buy 40 million vaccine doses from Novavax, and 10 million from Pfizer and BioNTech. That adds to the 85 million doses Australia has already committed to buy from AstraZeneca and CSL Ltd should trials prove successful, taking the country`s total anticipated outlay to A$3.2 billion ($2.3 billion). "We aren`t putting all our eggs in one basket," Morrison told reporters in Sydney. Also read| In hunt for virus source, WHO let China take charge Health Minister Greg Hunt said the Novavax and Pfizer-BioNTech vaccines, which will be manufacturd in the United States and Europe, would complement the AstraZeneca and CSL products, which would be manufactured in Australia. "That means we are now in a very strong position with the portfolio of four different vaccines, two protein, one viral vector and one MRMA, which is the Pfizer vaccine, and that`s innovative - the world hasn`t had an MRMA vaccine before," Hunt told TV broadcaster Nine Network. The Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca and Novavax vaccines are considered to be among the leading candidates in the global race to receive regulatory approval. Should trials prove successful, Australia expects to receive the first batches of the AstraZeneca vaccine in early 2021 and begin a mass rollout in March to be completed by the end of the year. Also read| Beijing bars arrivals from UK, Belgium due to second COVID-19 waves If all four vaccines come to market, Australia and its population of 26 million people will find itself with excess doses, even allowing for the fact that many of the candidates in development require two doses to be effective. Australia has said it plans to donate any excess doses to Pacific Island countries and has committed to spending around A$525 million to ensure Pacific nations and East Timor achieve full immunisation coverage. Australia is the largest aid donor to the Pacific islands and has sought in recent months to step up its engagement out of concern it risks being overshadowed by Chinese aid and financial support. Zero local transmission The announcement of the new planned vaccine purchases came as Australia recorded no cases of locally transmitted COVID-19 over the past 24 hours for the second time in a week. The country on Sunday recorded the first day without any local cases since early June. Also read| US registers highest COVID-19 cases in 24 hours amid elections Australia has reported just over 27,600 coronavirus cases and 907 deaths, far fewer than most other developed countries thanks to extensive testing, contact tracing and lockdowns. As national case numbers have slowed slowed to fewer than 10 each day, states and territories have been reopening borders and relaxing differing levels of social distancing restrictions. Qantas Airways on Thursday said it would boost the number of flights between New South Wales and Victoria states after officials announced on Wednesday that border restrictions would be lifted later this month. The national carrier will go from the ten return flights it is currently operating each week between Sydney and Melbourne to more than 250 flights between the two states weekly. The Sydney-Melbourne route was one of the busiest in the world before the pandemic.

Australia orders more COVID-19 vaccines for total of 135 million doses

Australia's foreign minister has welcomed Qatar's steps to prosecute those responsible for subjecting female travellers to gynaecological searches at the Gulf state's main airport last month.

Women on 10 flights leaving Doha, including at least 13 Australians, were forced to submit to the examinations as authorities searched for the mother of a newborn child abandoned in an airport bathroom on October 2.

Facing international condemnation led by a furious Australia, Qatar said on Friday those behind the incident had been referred for prosecution.

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said she had spoken to her Qatari counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on Friday, who "conveyed his sincere apology" and "provided a strong assurance that Qatar fully recognises the seriousness of these events and will ensure that they are never repeated".

"We very much welcome the acknowledgement by the government of Qatar in relation to the events that occurred in Hamad airport recently. We welcome the investigative process they have undertaken," she told reporters Saturday.

Payne said Australia has had "very constructive engagement with Qatar" on the issue and hoped the legal process was "transparent and appropriate and proportionate".

The incident only came to light after affected Australian passengers spoke out. It has since emerged that citizens from Britain, New Zealand and France were also subjected to the invasive searches.

Qatar said the abandoned baby girl -- who survived -- was wrapped in plastic and left to die in a bathroom rubbish bin, prompting what sources said was a lockdown of Hamad International Airport.

Women were then led from aircraft to ambulances on the tarmac where they were subject to physical examinations to see if they had recently given birth.

Facing potentially devastating commercial and reputational damage, Qatar has repeatedly vowed to guarantee the future "safety and security" of passengers.

Sex and childbirth outside of marriage are punishable by jail in the ultra-conservative Muslim country, which has struggled to reassure critics that its promises on women's rights, labour relations and democracy are credible ahead of hosting soccer's 2022 World Cup.

Australia's foreign minister has welcomed Qatar's steps to prosecute those responsible for subjecting female travellers to gynaecological searches at the Gulf state's main airport last month.

Australia's foreign minister has welcomed Qatar's steps to prosecute those responsible for subjecting female travellers to gynaecological searches at the Gulf state's main airport last month. Women on 10 flights leaving Doha, including at least 13 Australians, were forced to submit to the examinations as authorities searched for the mother of a newborn child abandoned in an airport bathroom on October 2. Facing international condemnation led by a furious Australia, Qatar said on Friday those behind the incident had been referred for prosecution. Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said she had spoken to her Qatari counterpart Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani on Friday, who "conveyed his sincere apology" and "provided a strong assurance that Qatar fully recognises the seriousness of these events and will ensure that they are never repeated". "We very much welcome the acknowledgement by the government of Qatar in relation to the events that occurred in Hamad airport recently. We welcome the investigative process they have undertaken," she told reporters Saturday. Payne said Australia has had "very constructive engagement with Qatar" on the issue and hoped the legal process was "transparent and appropriate and proportionate". The incident only came to light after affected Australian passengers spoke out. It has since emerged that citizens from Britain, New Zealand and France were also subjected to the invasive searches. Qatar said the abandoned baby girl -- who survived -- was wrapped in plastic and left to die in a bathroom rubbish bin, prompting what sources said was a lockdown of Hamad International Airport. Women were then led from aircraft to ambulances on the tarmac where they were subject to physical examinations to see if they had recently given birth. Facing potentially devastating commercial and reputational damage, Qatar has repeatedly vowed to guarantee the future "safety and security" of passengers. Sex and childbirth outside of marriage are punishable by jail in the ultra-conservative Muslim country, which has struggled to reassure critics that its promises on women's rights, labour relations and democracy are credible ahead of hosting soccer's 2022 World Cup.

Australia welcomes Qatar action on invasive airport searches of women

Australia has just come out of a lockdown and now a warning of flash flood followed by continuous rains and hail storms has forced the residents back in their houses again for the next few days.

The local residents of Queensland heard pitter-patter on Saturday only to step out and realise it was a hailstorm, with the hailstones as big as a tennis ball, quite literally, and&nbsp;the Bureau of Meteorology warned that more of such hailstorms were expected.

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We'll that was a Queensland hail storm <a href="https://t.co/50sTWSS5fC">pic.twitter.com/50sTWSS5fC</a>
— Sonya (@AussieSonya23) <a href="https://twitter.com/AussieSonya23/status/1322400552894951425?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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This was a result of thunderstorms that were formed along the Great Dividing Range from the New South Wales border to Wide Bay, north of the Sunshine Coast before moving towards the coast through the afternoon. The experts have warned that these storms will move and form quicker, and have urged people to stay indoors as much as possible. “The situation is volatile and continuing to change quickly,” a spokesman said. “Some of these storms are fast-moving and fast-forming, so people should consider whether they need to be outside or on the road at the moment.”

“These thunderstorms are a significant threat to property and life,” the bureau tweeted.

The locals took to the social media platforms to share pictures and videos of the hailstones which were as big as a tennis ball.

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That escalated quickly <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/bnestorm?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#bnestorm</a> <a href="https://t.co/KJF9Q31moT">pic.twitter.com/KJF9Q31moT</a>
— Dean S (@DeanS17) <a href="https://twitter.com/DeanS17/status/1322396571976097792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The storm is here most of the chickens are away Sydney retreated to under the house with the turkey who’s been here the last 4 days visiting and here’s a video of the hail coming down <a href="https://t.co/JZdD9OajeT">pic.twitter.com/JZdD9OajeT</a>
— Caleb Olsen (@Nuvaknight3) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nuvaknight3/status/1322363164562878466?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 31, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The biggest hailstone reported was of 14cm and was located in&nbsp;Logan, south of Brisbane, and locations such as&nbsp;Ipswich and the Lockyer Valley, west of the city reported up to 7cm.

“We don’t often see severe storms on this scale,” the meteorologist Lauren Pattie told local reporters. “For us to get a number supercell thunderstorms all with large to giant hail, significant wind gusts, and the damage from that, across that wide area is exceptional.”

As of now, no casualty has been reported.&nbsp;Queensland Fire And Emergency Service reported that more than 1,300 people had called for help and the powerlines had been disrupted in certain areas leading to a temporary suspension of passenger trains in the Nerang and Kuraby on the Gold Coast area.

&nbsp;

Australia has just come out of a lockdown and now a warning of flash flood followed by continuous rains and hail storms has forced the residents back in their houses again for the next few days.

Australia has just come out of a lockdown and now a warning of flash flood followed by continuous rains and hail storms has forced the residents back in their houses again for the next few days. The local residents of Queensland heard pitter-patter on Saturday only to step out and realise it was a hailstorm, with the hailstones as big as a tennis ball, quite literally, and the Bureau of Meteorology warned that more of such hailstorms were expected. We'll that was a Queensland hail storm pic.twitter.com/50sTWSS5fC — Sonya (@AussieSonya23) October 31, 2020 × This was a result of thunderstorms that were formed along the Great Dividing Range from the New South Wales border to Wide Bay, north of the Sunshine Coast before moving towards the coast through the afternoon. The experts have warned that these storms will move and form quicker, and have urged people to stay indoors as much as possible. “The situation is volatile and continuing to change quickly,” a spokesman said. “Some of these storms are fast-moving and fast-forming, so people should consider whether they need to be outside or on the road at the moment.” “These thunderstorms are a significant threat to property and life,” the bureau tweeted. The locals took to the social media platforms to share pictures and videos of the hailstones which were as big as a tennis ball. That escalated quickly #bnestorm pic.twitter.com/KJF9Q31moT — Dean S (@DeanS17) October 31, 2020 × The storm is here most of the chickens are away Sydney retreated to under the house with the turkey who’s been here the last 4 days visiting and here’s a video of the hail coming down pic.twitter.com/JZdD9OajeT — Caleb Olsen (@Nuvaknight3) October 31, 2020 × The biggest hailstone reported was of 14cm and was located in Logan, south of Brisbane, and locations such as Ipswich and the Lockyer Valley, west of the city reported up to 7cm. “We don’t often see severe storms on this scale,” the meteorologist Lauren Pattie told local reporters. “For us to get a number supercell thunderstorms all with large to giant hail, significant wind gusts, and the damage from that, across that wide area is exceptional.” As of now, no casualty has been reported. Queensland Fire And Emergency Service reported that more than 1,300 people had called for help and the powerlines had been disrupted in certain areas leading to a temporary suspension of passenger trains in the Nerang and Kuraby on the Gold Coast area.

In pics: Tennis ball-sized hail hits parts of Queensland ahead of flash-flood warning

They used to call it “the tyranny of distance.” Australia’s remoteness was something to escape, and for generations, the country that hates being referred to as “Down Under” has been rushing toward the world. Trade and immigration made Australians richer than the Swiss, creating a culture where life can be complete only with overseas trips and imported purchases.

Until the pandemic. The virus has turned this outgoing nation into a hermit. Australia’s borders are closed, internationally and between several states. Its economy is smaller, and its population growth has fallen to its lowest rate in more than 100 years.

Rather than chafing against isolation, though, Australians these days are more willing to smile in the mirror. Island living looks like a privilege when the world is pestilent. Those gnawing questions about travel, recession and the loss of global experience are being shoved down, below a more immediate appreciation for home and a search for silver linings.

In dozens of interviews, Australians have said they’re quite happy with their country’s response to the pandemic. Even with travel rules so strict they seem like something out of China or North Korea. Even with a 111-day lockdown in Australia’s second-largest city of Melbourne, which just finally ended. Even when the people kept away are grandparents longing to see new grandchildren.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-against-covid-19-restrictions-clash-with-police-in-spanish-cities-339392" hreflang="en">Protesters against COVID-19 restrictions clash with police in Spanish cities</a>

That’s the case for Jane Harper, a best-selling novelist in Melbourne, who has traded getting to know every building in her neighborhood for seeing her parents in Britain.

“I had my second child in November, and they would have come out at least once and possibly twice by now,” she said. “Not knowing when that will lift — I guess it gives us more appreciation for how lucky we are to be able to visit in normal times, and it makes you realize how far away Australia really is.”

Not that she would have it any other way. After so much isolation, she added, “there is a real sense among Australians that we can dig deep and help each other deal with whatever is facing us.”

Many other countries have also cut themselves off from their neighbors, and other island nations (Singapore, Japan, New Zealand) have also kept the virus in check. But in Australia, the ever-smaller circle is more intertwined with the pursuit of safety.

Coronavirus deaths remain under 1,000. Schools and restaurants are open, sports are being played, and friends are gathering for dinner parties. But people stick to where they can drive and what they know, and a lot of work still occurs from home.

If many of its citizens are still stranded abroad by border restrictions, Australians argue, so be it; if states like Western Australia seem determined to keep out everyone from Sydney and Melbourne for as long as possible, well, at least the virus has been brought into submission.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/portugal-reimposes-partial-lockdown-in-most-of-the-country-339375" hreflang="en">Portugal reimposes partial lockdown in most of the country</a>

Forced into a bell jar existence, many Australians are focusing on what they love about their country. The collectivist spirit. The fresh food. The beaches and small towns that equal or supersede the beauty of anywhere else in the world.

“It’s been kind of fun to see domestic travel go crazy again,” said Fred Siggins, 39, the brand manager for Sullivans Cove, a whiskey distillery in Tasmania. “That’s how it was in the ’90s before everyone started hiking off to Bali or whatever.”

Australia’s mood also seems to be benefiting from another reversal — many of those who had taken their ambitions to New York, London or Los Angeles have returned.

Edwina Throsby, head of Talks and Ideas for the Sydney Opera House, said she knew several academics and creative types who had come home and now intended to stay. Like many others, she wondered if an Australian cultural renaissance might follow.

At the very least, self-reflection seems to be blooming.

In one small sign among many, Australia’s most prestigious portrait prize in contemporary art was awarded this year, for the first time, to an Aboriginal artist, Vincent Namatjira.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-election-2020-joe-biden-leads-in-michigan-and-wisconsin-donald-trump-struggling-survey-339408">Joe Biden leads in Michigan and Wisconsin, Donald Trump struggling: Survey</a>

On a recent morning at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, his large-scale self-portrait with a well-known Indigenous Australian football player drew a cluster of avid fans, young and old.

The gallery featuring Asian art was far less crowded.

Each exhibit hall had a plaque outside showing the maximum number of people allowed in because of coronavirus restrictions. Masks were not required (Sydney is mostly virus free), and visitors respected the rules. They booked a time in advance and stayed socially distanced.

Michael Brand, the museum’s director, who previously ran the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, said it pointed to how the pandemic was making people more thoughtful users of time and space.

Maybe fewer options and more planning will “liberate our minds,” he said.

Technology, he added, will save Australia from fully retreating into itself. He said he had been frequenting museum collections online, while also using the time gained from a lack of travel to explore new realms — such as Nordic crime dramas.

Harper, who published a new novel, “The Survivors,” in September, said she had also been encouraged by larger-than-usual audiences for her readings online.

“There are so many people there who would never come to an in-person book event,” she said.

Some surprising businesses are adapting, too. Frank Theodore, a fishmonger at the Sydney Fish Market, upgraded his Get Fish website after a bleak April and said total sales were up this October compared with last October.

And yet the virtual has its limits. Harper’s parents can’t hug their grandchildren over Zoom. Brand has started posting photos to Instagram of past trips with the phrase “museums I’m missing during the pandemic.”

Hermetically sealed safety seems likely to exact a toll for as long as it lingers. Silver linings hide on dark clouds. Australians are only just starting to wonder about long-term costs and what to do with their isolation.

“We’ve all worked so hard to keep our cases down, and that’s such a fragile, precious thing that I can completely understand the strong urge to protect it,” Harper said. “My desire to see my parents, does that outweigh my desire to never go into lockdown again?”

“It’s not my decision to make,” she said. “But nationally that’s the question we are all asking ourselves

They used to call it “the tyranny of distance.” Australia’s remoteness was something to escape, and for generations, the country that hates being referred to as “Down Under” has been rushing toward the world.

They used to call it “the tyranny of distance.” Australia’s remoteness was something to escape, and for generations, the country that hates being referred to as “Down Under” has been rushing toward the world. Trade and immigration made Australians richer than the Swiss, creating a culture where life can be complete only with overseas trips and imported purchases. Until the pandemic. The virus has turned this outgoing nation into a hermit. Australia’s borders are closed, internationally and between several states. Its economy is smaller, and its population growth has fallen to its lowest rate in more than 100 years. Rather than chafing against isolation, though, Australians these days are more willing to smile in the mirror. Island living looks like a privilege when the world is pestilent. Those gnawing questions about travel, recession and the loss of global experience are being shoved down, below a more immediate appreciation for home and a search for silver linings. In dozens of interviews, Australians have said they’re quite happy with their country’s response to the pandemic. Even with travel rules so strict they seem like something out of China or North Korea. Even with a 111-day lockdown in Australia’s second-largest city of Melbourne, which just finally ended. Even when the people kept away are grandparents longing to see new grandchildren. Also read| Protesters against COVID-19 restrictions clash with police in Spanish cities That’s the case for Jane Harper, a best-selling novelist in Melbourne, who has traded getting to know every building in her neighborhood for seeing her parents in Britain. “I had my second child in November, and they would have come out at least once and possibly twice by now,” she said. “Not knowing when that will lift — I guess it gives us more appreciation for how lucky we are to be able to visit in normal times, and it makes you realize how far away Australia really is.” Not that she would have it any other way. After so much isolation, she added, “there is a real sense among Australians that we can dig deep and help each other deal with whatever is facing us.” Many other countries have also cut themselves off from their neighbors, and other island nations (Singapore, Japan, New Zealand) have also kept the virus in check. But in Australia, the ever-smaller circle is more intertwined with the pursuit of safety. Coronavirus deaths remain under 1,000. Schools and restaurants are open, sports are being played, and friends are gathering for dinner parties. But people stick to where they can drive and what they know, and a lot of work still occurs from home. If many of its citizens are still stranded abroad by border restrictions, Australians argue, so be it; if states like Western Australia seem determined to keep out everyone from Sydney and Melbourne for as long as possible, well, at least the virus has been brought into submission. Also read| Portugal reimposes partial lockdown in most of the country Forced into a bell jar existence, many Australians are focusing on what they love about their country. The collectivist spirit. The fresh food. The beaches and small towns that equal or supersede the beauty of anywhere else in the world. “It’s been kind of fun to see domestic travel go crazy again,” said Fred Siggins, 39, the brand manager for Sullivans Cove, a whiskey distillery in Tasmania. “That’s how it was in the ’90s before everyone started hiking off to Bali or whatever.” Australia’s mood also seems to be benefiting from another reversal — many of those who had taken their ambitions to New York, London or Los Angeles have returned. Edwina Throsby, head of Talks and Ideas for the Sydney Opera House, said she knew several academics and creative types who had come home and now intended to stay. Like many others, she wondered if an Australian cultural renaissance might follow. At the very least, self-reflection seems to be blooming. In one small sign among many, Australia’s most prestigious portrait prize in contemporary art was awarded this year, for the first time, to an Aboriginal artist, Vincent Namatjira. Also read| Joe Biden leads in Michigan and Wisconsin, Donald Trump struggling: Survey On a recent morning at the Art Gallery of New South Wales, his large-scale self-portrait with a well-known Indigenous Australian football player drew a cluster of avid fans, young and old. The gallery featuring Asian art was far less crowded. Each exhibit hall had a plaque outside showing the maximum number of people allowed in because of coronavirus restrictions. Masks were not required (Sydney is mostly virus free), and visitors respected the rules. They booked a time in advance and stayed socially distanced. Michael Brand, the museum’s director, who previously ran the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles, said it pointed to how the pandemic was making people more thoughtful users of time and space. Maybe fewer options and more planning will “liberate our minds,” he said. Technology, he added, will save Australia from fully retreating into itself. He said he had been frequenting museum collections online, while also using the time gained from a lack of travel to explore new realms — such as Nordic crime dramas. Harper, who published a new novel, “The Survivors,” in September, said she had also been encouraged by larger-than-usual audiences for her readings online. “There are so many people there who would never come to an in-person book event,” she said. Some surprising businesses are adapting, too. Frank Theodore, a fishmonger at the Sydney Fish Market, upgraded his Get Fish website after a bleak April and said total sales were up this October compared with last October. And yet the virtual has its limits. Harper’s parents can’t hug their grandchildren over Zoom. Brand has started posting photos to Instagram of past trips with the phrase “museums I’m missing during the pandemic.” Hermetically sealed safety seems likely to exact a toll for as long as it lingers. Silver linings hide on dark clouds. Australians are only just starting to wonder about long-term costs and what to do with their isolation. “We’ve all worked so hard to keep our cases down, and that’s such a fragile, precious thing that I can completely understand the strong urge to protect it,” Harper said. “My desire to see my parents, does that outweigh my desire to never go into lockdown again?” “It’s not my decision to make,” she said. “But nationally that’s the question we are all asking ourselves

Cut off from the world again, Australia now finds silver linings

Voters in Australia`s Queensland state went to the polls on Saturday in an election overshadowed by COVID-19, with the Labor government expected to retain power for taking strict measures that have put it at odds with the national government.

"Today`s a really important day and it`s about Queenslanders making a choice," Annastacia Palaszczuk, premier of the country`s third-most populous state, told local media after casting her vote.

"It`s about who they want to be the premier to actually lead the state."

Palaszczuk has adopted stringent anti-virus controls, including the closure of state borders, causing friction with Prime Minister Scott Morrison who wants internal borders open to boost economic recovery.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/anthony-fauci-lauds-australias-covid-19-response-says-people-ridiculed-in-us-for-wearing-masks-338731">Anthony Fauci lauds Australia's Covid-19 response, says people 'ridiculed' in US for wearing masks</a>

Morrison, leader of the centre-right Liberal Party, on Saturday backed Palaszczuk`s opponent Deb Frecklington, leader of the Liberal National Party of Queensland. 
"Australia needs Queensland to return to the powerhouse state it once was," Morrison said in a video message on Facebook.

Results are expected late on Saturday.

At the same time, residents in Australia`s second-largest city, Melbourne, on Saturday enjoyed their first weekend of relative freedom after an almost four-month lockdown, as coronavirus case numbers continued to dwindle.

As Melburnians have flocked to parks, tennis courts, restaurants and shops, officials reported no new COVID-19 cases in Victoria state and no deaths, saying that further tests on an earlier reported case confirmed it was not an infection.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-will-not-be-available-before-2021-fauci-declares-week-before-us-election-337855">COVID-19 vaccine will not be available before 2021, Fauci declares week before US election&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

That compares to average daily new cases of around 700 in July and early August, which made it Australia`s pandemic hotspot. "We need to enjoy our lives after three months of really constrained activity," Victoria Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton told a news conference on Sunday.

Some travel restrictions, however, remain and venues including libraries and cinemas remain closed in Melbourne, the state capital. Officials are expected to announce a further easing of restrictions from November 09.

Australia has fared much better than many countries in managing the pandemic, recording just over 27,500 cases and 907 deaths since the start of the year. As of Friday, there were just under 200 active cases.

The government announced on Saturday it would spend A$500 million ($350 million) over the next three years to help Pacific and Southeast Asian countries roll out vaccination programs to against COVID-19.

The government has agreements with Britain`s AstraZeneca Plc and the Australia`s University of Queensland for potential vaccines and has pledged free immunisation to all Australians and donations to regional partners.

Voters in Australia`s Queensland state went to the polls on Saturday in an election overshadowed by COVID-19, with the Labor government expected to retain power for taking strict measures that have put it at odds with the national government.

Voters in Australia`s Queensland state went to the polls on Saturday in an election overshadowed by COVID-19, with the Labor government expected to retain power for taking strict measures that have put it at odds with the national government. "Today`s a really important day and it`s about Queenslanders making a choice," Annastacia Palaszczuk, premier of the country`s third-most populous state, told local media after casting her vote. "It`s about who they want to be the premier to actually lead the state." Palaszczuk has adopted stringent anti-virus controls, including the closure of state borders, causing friction with Prime Minister Scott Morrison who wants internal borders open to boost economic recovery. Also read| Anthony Fauci lauds Australia's Covid-19 response, says people 'ridiculed' in US for wearing masks Morrison, leader of the centre-right Liberal Party, on Saturday backed Palaszczuk`s opponent Deb Frecklington, leader of the Liberal National Party of Queensland. "Australia needs Queensland to return to the powerhouse state it once was," Morrison said in a video message on Facebook. Results are expected late on Saturday. At the same time, residents in Australia`s second-largest city, Melbourne, on Saturday enjoyed their first weekend of relative freedom after an almost four-month lockdown, as coronavirus case numbers continued to dwindle. As Melburnians have flocked to parks, tennis courts, restaurants and shops, officials reported no new COVID-19 cases in Victoria state and no deaths, saying that further tests on an earlier reported case confirmed it was not an infection. Also read | COVID-19 vaccine will not be available before 2021, Fauci declares week before US election That compares to average daily new cases of around 700 in July and early August, which made it Australia`s pandemic hotspot. "We need to enjoy our lives after three months of really constrained activity," Victoria Chief Health Officer Brett Sutton told a news conference on Sunday. Some travel restrictions, however, remain and venues including libraries and cinemas remain closed in Melbourne, the state capital. Officials are expected to announce a further easing of restrictions from November 09. Australia has fared much better than many countries in managing the pandemic, recording just over 27,500 cases and 907 deaths since the start of the year. As of Friday, there were just under 200 active cases. The government announced on Saturday it would spend A$500 million ($350 million) over the next three years to help Pacific and Southeast Asian countries roll out vaccination programs to against COVID-19. The government has agreements with Britain`s AstraZeneca Plc and the Australia`s University of Queensland for potential vaccines and has pledged free immunisation to all Australians and donations to regional partners.

Australia's Queensland votes in COVID-dominated race, Melbourne eases lockdown

Qatar said on Friday that those responsible for invasive gynecological searches of passengers at Doha airport had been referred for prosecution over the "violations" following widespread outrage.

Women on 10 Qatar Airways flights out of Doha were subject to the examinations as authorities searched for the mother of a newborn baby found abandoned in an airport bathroom on October 2.

The statement comes as the Australian government expressed outrage and union workers threatened not to service Qatar Airways aircraft in Sydney over the&nbsp;incident.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/several-women-strip-searched-by-qatar-airways-authorities-after-infant-found-dead-337845">Several women strip-searched by Qatar Airways authorities after infant found dead</a>

'Appalling'

Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said 13 of its citizens had to endure the "appalling" examinations.

Earlier, Frances Adamson, head of&nbsp;Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, said there was "distress, abhorrence and deep questioning of how this can have happened".

Australia also represents a crucial route for Qatar Airways, the state-owned long-haul carrier based at Hamad International Airport in Doha.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-aviation-industry-hammered-qatar-airways-at-risk-of-bankruptcy-290029/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In a statement, Qatar's Government Communication Office described the abandoning of the baby as the ''attempted murder''&nbsp;of the child.

''The subsequent procedures were taken by the authorities at the airport, including examining a number of female passengers, revealed that standard procedures were violated," the statement said. "Those responsible for these violations and illegal actions have been referred to the Public Prosecution Office.''

"The Prime Minister and Minister of Interior expressed the Government of the State of Qatar's sincerest apology for what some female travelers went through as a result of the measures."

The incident has caused diplomatic tensions with three friendly nations,&nbsp;Australia, Britain, and New Zealand, which intensified when authorities initially declined to apologise, leading to an online backlash against the airline, one of the wealthy Gulf nation's&nbsp;prestige projects.

New Zealand was the latest to raise concerns, saying late Thursday that one of its citizens was among the women subjected to the invasive&nbsp;examinations.

"We were extremely concerned to learn... that a New&nbsp;Zealand national was involved in the appalling incident involving female passengers on several Qatar Airways flights," its foreign ministry said in a statement.

It labelled the action "completely unacceptable".

The incident only came to light this week after affected Australian passengers spoke out.

Qatar is an ultra-conservative Muslim monarchy, where sex and childbirth outside of marriage are punishable by jail.

Ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, it has struggled to reassure critics that its promises on women's rights, labour relations and democracy are credible.

Facing potentially devastating commercial and reputational damage, Qatar has repeatedly vowed to guarantee the future "safety and security" of passengers.

Australia's criticism of Qatar had grown increasingly strident in the absence of an unequivocal apology from Doha in the days after the scandal emerged.

Qatar said on Friday that taskforces were looking at "potential gaps in the procedures and protocols" at the airport.

"This incident is the first of its kind at Hamad International Airport, which has served tens of millions of passengers without any issues like this before," the Qatari statement said.

"What took place is wholly inconsistent with Qatar's culture and values."

Qatar's assistant foreign minister Lolwah al-Khater, one of the few female ministers in the Gulf region, tweeted Qatar's apologies "for the disturbing experience".

Qatar said on Friday that those responsible for invasive gynecological searches of passengers at Doha airport had been referred for prosecution over the "violations" following widespread outrage.

Qatar said on Friday that those responsible for invasive gynecological searches of passengers at Doha airport had been referred for prosecution over the "violations" following widespread outrage. Women on 10 Qatar Airways flights out of Doha were subject to the examinations as authorities searched for the mother of a newborn baby found abandoned in an airport bathroom on October 2. The statement comes as the Australian government expressed outrage and union workers threatened not to service Qatar Airways aircraft in Sydney over the incident. Also read: Several women strip-searched by Qatar Airways authorities after infant found dead 'Appalling' Australian Foreign Minister Marise Payne said 13 of its citizens had to endure the "appalling" examinations. Earlier, Frances Adamson, head of Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, said there was "distress, abhorrence and deep questioning of how this can have happened". Australia also represents a crucial route for Qatar Airways, the state-owned long-haul carrier based at Hamad International Airport in Doha. In a statement, Qatar's Government Communication Office described the abandoning of the baby as the ''attempted murder'' of the child. ''The subsequent procedures were taken by the authorities at the airport, including examining a number of female passengers, revealed that standard procedures were violated," the statement said. "Those responsible for these violations and illegal actions have been referred to the Public Prosecution Office.'' "The Prime Minister and Minister of Interior expressed the Government of the State of Qatar's sincerest apology for what some female travelers went through as a result of the measures." The incident has caused diplomatic tensions with three friendly nations, Australia, Britain, and New Zealand, which intensified when authorities initially declined to apologise, leading to an online backlash against the airline, one of the wealthy Gulf nation's prestige projects. New Zealand was the latest to raise concerns, saying late Thursday that one of its citizens was among the women subjected to the invasive examinations. "We were extremely concerned to learn... that a New Zealand national was involved in the appalling incident involving female passengers on several Qatar Airways flights," its foreign ministry said in a statement. It labelled the action "completely unacceptable". The incident only came to light this week after affected Australian passengers spoke out. Qatar is an ultra-conservative Muslim monarchy, where sex and childbirth outside of marriage are punishable by jail. Ahead of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, it has struggled to reassure critics that its promises on women's rights, labour relations and democracy are credible. Facing potentially devastating commercial and reputational damage, Qatar has repeatedly vowed to guarantee the future "safety and security" of passengers. Australia's criticism of Qatar had grown increasingly strident in the absence of an unequivocal apology from Doha in the days after the scandal emerged. Qatar said on Friday that taskforces were looking at "potential gaps in the procedures and protocols" at the airport. "This incident is the first of its kind at Hamad International Airport, which has served tens of millions of passengers without any issues like this before," the Qatari statement said. "What took place is wholly inconsistent with Qatar's culture and values." Qatar's assistant foreign minister Lolwah al-Khater, one of the few female ministers in the Gulf region, tweeted Qatar's apologies "for the disturbing experience".

Qatar to charge those behind invasive airport searches of women

With exports to China under investigation, lacklustre sales in the US and COVID-19 shutdowns denting restaurant sales everywhere, Australia's winemakers are turning to a traditional revenue source to turn a dollar: the cellar door.

Australian winemakers look past China, US woes and toast the home market

Lauding Australia's response to handling the coronavirus pandemic, US's top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci said he "wished" America also adopted a similar approach.&nbsp;

Fauci said Australia was "one of the countries that has done actually quite well" in an interview to the University of Melbourne and the Melbourne's Doherty Institute, as quoted by The Guardian.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-vaccine-will-not-be-available-before-2021-fauci-declares-week-before-us-election-337855">COVID-19 vaccine will not be available before 2021, Fauci declares week before US election&nbsp;</a>&nbsp; &nbsp;

"I really wish that we could transplant that kind of mentality here," Fauci said, adding masks in the US have become "a political statement".

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-coronavirus-expert-anthony-fauci-a-disaster-336526">Trump calls coronavirus expert Anthony Fauci a 'disaster'</a>

He said he would get into "serious trouble" if he walked into a meeting in the White House and used the word "shutdown" or "lockdown", referring to Melbourne striking up the right balance between opening the economy, wearing masks and the lockdown.&nbsp;

"If you walk on the streets of Melbourne, 99.9% of people are wearing masks," Fauci said saying he wished America also went with the same approach.

However, people were "ridiculed" for wearing masks in the US, Fauci said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"In fact, people were ridiculed for wearing masks. It depended upon what side of a particular political spectrum you were at, which is so painful to me as a physician and a scientist and a public health person," the infectious expert said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Lauding Australia's response to handling the coronavirus pandemic, US's top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci said he "wished" America also adopted a similar approach.

Lauding Australia's response to handling the coronavirus pandemic, US's top infectious disease expert Anthony Fauci said he "wished" America also adopted a similar approach. Fauci said Australia was "one of the countries that has done actually quite well" in an interview to the University of Melbourne and the Melbourne's Doherty Institute, as quoted by The Guardian. Also read | COVID-19 vaccine will not be available before 2021, Fauci declares week before US election "I really wish that we could transplant that kind of mentality here," Fauci said, adding masks in the US have become "a political statement". Also read | Trump calls coronavirus expert Anthony Fauci a 'disaster' He said he would get into "serious trouble" if he walked into a meeting in the White House and used the word "shutdown" or "lockdown", referring to Melbourne striking up the right balance between opening the economy, wearing masks and the lockdown. "If you walk on the streets of Melbourne, 99.9% of people are wearing masks," Fauci said saying he wished America also went with the same approach. However, people were "ridiculed" for wearing masks in the US, Fauci said. "In fact, people were ridiculed for wearing masks. It depended upon what side of a particular political spectrum you were at, which is so painful to me as a physician and a scientist and a public health person," the infectious expert said.

Anthony Fauci lauds Australia's Covid-19 response, says people 'ridiculed' in US for wearing masks

Australian Scientists have found a detached reef, more than 500 metres high – taller than the Empire State Building – at the northern end of the Great Barrier Reef.

Measuring more than 500 meters high -- taller than the Empire State Building, the Sydney Tower and the Petronas Twin Towers -- the reef was discovered by Australian scientists aboard Schmidt Ocean Institute's research vessel Falkor, currently on a 12-month exploration of the ocean surrounding Australia.

A coral reef is an underwater ecosystem characterized by reef-building corals. Reefs are formed of colonies of coral polyps held together by calcium carbonate.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the mass death of young and old corals in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is threatening the recovery of the largest living structure on Earth. The bleaching of corals off Australia’s northeastern coast due to ocean warming and acidification is happening across all species and to specimens of all ages, according to a new study that analyzed coral demographics.

Half of the Great Barrier Reef's corals have died over the past 25 years, scientists said Wednesday, warning that climate change is irreversibly destroying the underwater ecosystem.

A study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society Journal found an alarming rate of decline across all sizes of corals since the mid-1990s on the vast World Heritage-listed reef off Australia's northeastern coast.

Larger species, such as branching and table-shaped corals, have been affected hardest -- almost disappearing from the far northern reaches of the reef.

(With inputs from agencies)

Australian Scientists have found a detached reef, more than 500 metres high – taller than the Empire State Building – at the northern end of the Great Barrier Reef.

Australian Scientists have found a detached reef, more than 500 metres high – taller than the Empire State Building – at the northern end of the Great Barrier Reef. Measuring more than 500 meters high -- taller than the Empire State Building, the Sydney Tower and the Petronas Twin Towers -- the reef was discovered by Australian scientists aboard Schmidt Ocean Institute's research vessel Falkor, currently on a 12-month exploration of the ocean surrounding Australia. A coral reef is an underwater ecosystem characterized by reef-building corals. Reefs are formed of colonies of coral polyps held together by calcium carbonate. Meanwhile, the mass death of young and old corals in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef is threatening the recovery of the largest living structure on Earth. The bleaching of corals off Australia’s northeastern coast due to ocean warming and acidification is happening across all species and to specimens of all ages, according to a new study that analyzed coral demographics. Half of the Great Barrier Reef's corals have died over the past 25 years, scientists said Wednesday, warning that climate change is irreversibly destroying the underwater ecosystem. A study published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society Journal found an alarming rate of decline across all sizes of corals since the mid-1990s on the vast World Heritage-listed reef off Australia's northeastern coast. Larger species, such as branching and table-shaped corals, have been affected hardest -- almost disappearing from the far northern reaches of the reef. (With inputs from agencies)

Coral reef taller than the Empire State Building discovered in Australia

Japan is holding a drill with American soldiers. The US is supplying Taiwan with advanced weapons. Australia will join India, Japan and the US for the Malabar Exercise next month. WION's Palki Sharma tells you how US & its allies are building an Asian NATO.

Gravitas: How the United States is building the Asian NATO

The government of Qatar on Wednesday expressed “regrets” over a decision to pull more than a dozen women from a Qatar Airways flight in Doha and subject them to invasive medical exams after an abandoned newborn was found in an airport bathroom.

Your Story: Qatar regrets strip-searches over abandoned body

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