Australia and New Zealand ease restrictions, people flock to beaches and cafes

The Australian government wants an inquiry into China's response to the Coronavirus outbreak. The Chinese regime has asked Australia to 'drop the probe or pay an economic price'.

Gravitas: Coronavirus: China threatens Australia with economic consequences

Hundreds of surfers are back in the water at Bondi on the first morning since the beach was closed five weeks ago due to COVID-19 restrictions.

This is how Bondi beach looks like today in Australia

<p>By now, people, by and large, know that coronavirus can spread rapidly and social distancing is a key to contain the virus. Once the virus infects any individual, people who have come in contact with this person remain vulnerable and can lead to mass infections.&nbsp;</p>

<p>And in a bid to stop this chain, Australia has launched a smartphone app to track people who come in contact with the COVID-19 patients on Sunday.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasa-designs-special-ventilator-for-coronavirus-patients-294741">NASA designs special ventilator for coronavirus patients</a></strong></p>

<p>The COVIDSafe app through phone's Bluetooth wireless signal stores information about people's interactions, and can be accessed by health personnel if a person contracts coronavirus.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-death-toll-crosses-200000-mark-294801">Global coronavirus death toll crosses 200,000 mark</a></strong></p>

<p>"What this will do is give a list of the mobile phone numbers of those people who have been in contact within that distance for 15 minutes or more," Australia's chief medical officer Brendan Murphy said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>He added that his could lead to contacts traced "a day or two earlier than they otherwise may have been."</p>

<p>Health officials believe that less than half of Australia's population would need to download this app for it to work effectively. They also say that with app's use, strict restrictions on movement and gatherings would be eased.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To assuage privacy concerns, users can register with a fake name, and police cannot use the data to investigate crimes, while all information would be automatically deleted after 21 days.</p>

<p>There were initial suggestions that the app could be made mandatory, but its use is voluntary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just over 6,700 coronavirus cases, including 83 deaths were reported in Australia and the rise of infections dropped significantly in recent weeks. A tad over 16 COVID-19 cases were reported on Sunday.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


By now, people, by and large, know that coronavirus can spread rapidly and social distancing is a key to contain the virus. Once the virus infects any individual, people who have come in contact with this person remain vulnerable and can lead to mass infections.

By now, people, by and large, know that coronavirus can spread rapidly and social distancing is a key to contain the virus. Once the virus infects any individual, people who have come in contact with this person remain vulnerable and can lead to mass infections. And in a bid to stop this chain, Australia has launched a smartphone app to track people who come in contact with the COVID-19 patients on Sunday. Also read | NASA designs special ventilator for coronavirus patients The COVIDSafe app through phone's Bluetooth wireless signal stores information about people's interactions, and can be accessed by health personnel if a person contracts coronavirus. Also read | Global coronavirus death toll crosses 200,000 mark "What this will do is give a list of the mobile phone numbers of those people who have been in contact within that distance for 15 minutes or more," Australia's chief medical officer Brendan Murphy said. He added that his could lead to contacts traced "a day or two earlier than they otherwise may have been." Health officials believe that less than half of Australia's population would need to download this app for it to work effectively. They also say that with app's use, strict restrictions on movement and gatherings would be eased. To assuage privacy concerns, users can register with a fake name, and police cannot use the data to investigate crimes, while all information would be automatically deleted after 21 days. There were initial suggestions that the app could be made mandatory, but its use is voluntary. Just over 6,700 coronavirus cases, including 83 deaths were reported in Australia and the rise of infections dropped significantly in recent weeks. A tad over 16 COVID-19 cases were reported on Sunday.

Coronavirus: Australia launches app to trace patients' contacts

Countries that have criticised China for coronavirus response and demanded investigation

<p>The coronavirus-stricken cruise ship, the Ruby Princess, set off from Australian shores on Thursday after the police ordered it to leave a month ago. This cruise ship&nbsp;has been subjected to a criminal investigation after it became Australia's largest single source of coronavirus infections.</p>

<p>The Ruby Princess has been linked to 19 deaths in Australia and two in the United States. The 19 deaths onboard the Ruby Princess has taken Australia's toll to&nbsp;75&nbsp;deaths.&nbsp;An enquiry is being conducted by the government about why were around 2,700 passengers and crew allowed to disembark without waiting for the swab results.</p>

<p>Many passengers onboard the Ruby Princess flew from Sydney overseas. Two died at home in the United States, including 64-year-old Los Angeles resident Chung Chen. The deceased's&nbsp;family is suing Princess Cruises for more than USD 1 million for failing to alert passengers to the risk.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-seizes-black-box-in-raid-on-coronavirus-hit-ruby-princess-cruise-ship-291439"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Australia seizes black box in raid on coronavirus-hit Ruby Princess cruise ship</strong></a></p>

<p>The departure from Port Kembla, south of Sydney was delayed as a lot of crew members were tested positive, several of whom have died in Sydney hospitals.&nbsp;As the cruise ship left the shores of Australia today,&nbsp;New South Wales state banned further cruise ship arrivals until new health protocols are agreed with the federal government.</p>

<p>It departed from the port with a skeleton crew late in the afternoon nudged by two tug boats. While leaving, there was a large banner hanging across its stern&nbsp;that read, "Thank You Illawarra" .</p>

<p>Princess Cruises did not immediately disclose where the ship was heading. However, local media reported that its next destination is Philippines.&nbsp;On Thursday morning, 300 Filipino crew left the ship and were taken to Sydney to catch a charter flight to Manila. They travelled from Port Kembla in 40 buses that were equipped with social distancing rules.</p>

<p>"We have been given no option to leave we have to stay on board. Myself and my family are worried and scared of what will happen next," the email of one crew member on board the cruise read.</p>

<p>As the police ordered the cruise ship to leave in March, the state police are now investigating whether Ruby Princess' management downplayed potential COVID-19 cases before passengers disembarked. The cruise belongs to the Princess Cruises,&nbsp;a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, which is incorporated in Bermuda and headquartered in California.<br />
<br />
Health authorities said everyone who remained on board had been cleared of the virus. The ship's doctor Ilse Von Watzdorf tsaid&nbsp;that she was surprised health authorities had allowed passengers to leave in Sydney before the test results were known. She also provided evidence to the inquiry by video-link from the ship where she has been in quarantine.</p>


The coronavirus-stricken cruise ship, the Ruby Princess, set off from Australian shores on Thursday after the police ordered it to leave a month ago. This cruise ship has been subjected to a criminal investigation after it became Australia's largest single source of coronavirus infections.

The coronavirus-stricken cruise ship, the Ruby Princess, set off from Australian shores on Thursday after the police ordered it to leave a month ago. This cruise ship has been subjected to a criminal investigation after it became Australia's largest single source of coronavirus infections. The Ruby Princess has been linked to 19 deaths in Australia and two in the United States. The 19 deaths onboard the Ruby Princess has taken Australia's toll to 75 deaths. An enquiry is being conducted by the government about why were around 2,700 passengers and crew allowed to disembark without waiting for the swab results. Many passengers onboard the Ruby Princess flew from Sydney overseas. Two died at home in the United States, including 64-year-old Los Angeles resident Chung Chen. The deceased's family is suing Princess Cruises for more than USD 1 million for failing to alert passengers to the risk. Also read: Australia seizes black box in raid on coronavirus-hit Ruby Princess cruise ship The departure from Port Kembla, south of Sydney was delayed as a lot of crew members were tested positive, several of whom have died in Sydney hospitals. As the cruise ship left the shores of Australia today, New South Wales state banned further cruise ship arrivals until new health protocols are agreed with the federal government. It departed from the port with a skeleton crew late in the afternoon nudged by two tug boats. While leaving, there was a large banner hanging across its stern that read, "Thank You Illawarra" . Princess Cruises did not immediately disclose where the ship was heading. However, local media reported that its next destination is Philippines. On Thursday morning, 300 Filipino crew left the ship and were taken to Sydney to catch a charter flight to Manila. They travelled from Port Kembla in 40 buses that were equipped with social distancing rules. "We have been given no option to leave we have to stay on board. Myself and my family are worried and scared of what will happen next," the email of one crew member on board the cruise read. As the police ordered the cruise ship to leave in March, the state police are now investigating whether Ruby Princess' management downplayed potential COVID-19 cases before passengers disembarked. The cruise belongs to the Princess Cruises, a subsidiary of Carnival Corporation, which is incorporated in Bermuda and headquartered in California. Health authorities said everyone who remained on board had been cleared of the virus. The ship's doctor Ilse Von Watzdorf tsaid that she was surprised health authorities had allowed passengers to leave in Sydney before the test results were known. She also provided evidence to the inquiry by video-link from the ship where she has been in quarantine.

Notorious coronavirus-stricken cruise ship leaves Australian port

After the United States, Australia and Germany have now voiced demand for an international enquiry against China on coronavirus pandemic. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has urged transparency from China over virus.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel urges transparency from China over coronavirus

The Wild Life Sydney Zoo at Darling Harbour may be closed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, but that doesn't mean a slowdown of work for curatorial supervisor and zookeeper, Renee Howell.

Australian zookeeper copes with changes on the job during coronavirus

Tech Giants have always siphoned news content from traditional media. The Australian government has now decided to make them pay for news. Should India follow Australia's lead?

Gravitas: Google & Facebook asked to pay for news

<p>A two-year international investigation into a website where users pay for child abuse material has lead to the arrest of 16 people in Australia.</p>

<p>According to Xinhua news agency, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) were also able to remove four Australian children from further harm.</p>

<p>The investigation was initiated by US Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It had provided information to international police and child protection organisations.</p>

<p>HSI uncovered an illicit marketplace where users paid for access to child abuse material, and were able to provide user data leading to arrests in several countries including the US and Australia.</p>

<p>Australia then executed 18 search warrants, arresting 16 people on 738 charges and removing four children.</p>

<p>Perpetrators continued to act via extensive online networks, regardless of the considerable harm inflicted on victims.</p>

<p>HSI Australia Attache Adam Parks said the current COVID-19 pandemic may place children at even higher risk.</p>


A two-year international investigation into a website where users pay for child abuse material has lead to the arrest of 16 people in Australia. According to Xinhua news agency, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) were also able to remove four Australian children from further harm.

A two-year international investigation into a website where users pay for child abuse material has lead to the arrest of 16 people in Australia. According to Xinhua news agency, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) were also able to remove four Australian children from further harm. The investigation was initiated by US Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It had provided information to international police and child protection organisations. HSI uncovered an illicit marketplace where users paid for access to child abuse material, and were able to provide user data leading to arrests in several countries including the US and Australia. Australia then executed 18 search warrants, arresting 16 people on 738 charges and removing four children. Perpetrators continued to act via extensive online networks, regardless of the considerable harm inflicted on victims. HSI Australia Attache Adam Parks said the current COVID-19 pandemic may place children at even higher risk.

Two-year probe into child abuse website leads to arrest of 16 in Australia

Malie the sea lion and his keeper, Danielle Fox, stand side-by-side in an almost empty Taronga Zoo on Monday (April 20). Being able to venture out of his enclosure, Malie waddles freely down a path without any guests.

No visitors at Australian zoo, but animals train for when lockdown ends

<p>Australia on Sunday called for an independent investigation into the global response to the coronavirus pandemic, including the World Health Organization's handling of the crisis.</p>

<p>Foreign Minister Marise Payne said the country would "insist" on a review that would probe, in part, China's early response to the outbreak in Wuhan, the city where COVID-19 emerged late last year.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-overtakes-iran-with-over-82000-coronavirus-cases-293367">Turkey overtakes Iran with over 82,000 coronavirus cases</a></strong></p>

<p>"We need to know the sorts of details that an independent review would identify for us about the genesis of the virus, about the approaches to dealing with it (and) addressing the openness with which information was shared," she told public broadcaster ABC.</p>

<p>Payne said Australia shared similar concerns to the United States, whose President Donald Trump has accused the WHO of "mismanaging" the crisis and covering up the seriousness of China's outbreak before it spread.</p>

<p>Trump has also announced that Washington will halt payments to the UN body that amounted to $400 million last year.</p>

<p>"I'm not sure that you can have the health organisation which has been responsible for disseminating much of the international communications material, and doing much of the early engagement and investigative work, also as the review mechanism," Payne said.</p>

<p>"That strikes me as a bit poacher-and-gamekeeper."</p>

<p>Payne added she believed the fallout from the pandemic was set to change the relationship between Australia and China "in some ways", with her concern around Beijing's transparency now "at a very high point".</p>

<p>Health Minister Greg Hunt backed the call for an independent review, saying Australia had achieved success in limiting the spread of the virus in part by going against WHO advice.</p>

<p>Australia -- which has recorded 6,600 coronavirus cases and 70 deaths linked to COVID-19 -- was one of the first countries to impose a ban on travel from China.</p>

<p>"Australia has been able to have, by global standards, just a profoundly important and successful human outcome, but we have done that by following the course that our medical experts here in Australia set out," Hunt said.</p>

<p>"We do know there was very considerable criticism when we imposed on the 1 February the China ban from some of the officials and the WHO in Geneva."</p>

<p>Hunt said although the WHO had "done well" in fighting diseases like polio, measles and malaria, its coronavirus response "didn't help the world".</p>

<p>"We have done well because we made our own decisions as a country," he added.</p>

<p>In recent weeks, Australia has seen the rate of new cases slow dramatically, leading health authorities to declare the country has "flattened the curve".</p>

<p>Tough restrictions on movement and gatherings are set to remain in place for at least the next month as officials attempt to keep the virus spread under control.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Australia on Sunday called for an independent investigation into the global response to the coronavirus pandemic, including the World Health Organization's handling of the crisis.

Australia on Sunday called for an independent investigation into the global response to the coronavirus pandemic, including the World Health Organization's handling of the crisis. Foreign Minister Marise Payne said the country would "insist" on a review that would probe, in part, China's early response to the outbreak in Wuhan, the city where COVID-19 emerged late last year. Also read | Turkey overtakes Iran with over 82,000 coronavirus cases "We need to know the sorts of details that an independent review would identify for us about the genesis of the virus, about the approaches to dealing with it (and) addressing the openness with which information was shared," she told public broadcaster ABC. Payne said Australia shared similar concerns to the United States, whose President Donald Trump has accused the WHO of "mismanaging" the crisis and covering up the seriousness of China's outbreak before it spread. Trump has also announced that Washington will halt payments to the UN body that amounted to $400 million last year. "I'm not sure that you can have the health organisation which has been responsible for disseminating much of the international communications material, and doing much of the early engagement and investigative work, also as the review mechanism," Payne said. "That strikes me as a bit poacher-and-gamekeeper." Payne added she believed the fallout from the pandemic was set to change the relationship between Australia and China "in some ways", with her concern around Beijing's transparency now "at a very high point". Health Minister Greg Hunt backed the call for an independent review, saying Australia had achieved success in limiting the spread of the virus in part by going against WHO advice. Australia -- which has recorded 6,600 coronavirus cases and 70 deaths linked to COVID-19 -- was one of the first countries to impose a ban on travel from China. "Australia has been able to have, by global standards, just a profoundly important and successful human outcome, but we have done that by following the course that our medical experts here in Australia set out," Hunt said. "We do know there was very considerable criticism when we imposed on the 1 February the China ban from some of the officials and the WHO in Geneva." Hunt said although the WHO had "done well" in fighting diseases like polio, measles and malaria, its coronavirus response "didn't help the world". "We have done well because we made our own decisions as a country," he added. In recent weeks, Australia has seen the rate of new cases slow dramatically, leading health authorities to declare the country has "flattened the curve". Tough restrictions on movement and gatherings are set to remain in place for at least the next month as officials attempt to keep the virus spread under control.

Australia calls for independent probe into global virus response

<p>Scientists have discovered the world's longest ever recorded animal in the deep-sea of Australia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This massive creature Siphonophore Apolemia's estimated length was 150 feet (46 meters) and was found near the coast of Western Australia. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p>

<p>Siphonophore is&nbsp;made up of individual zooids who cloned themselves to form into one gigantic animal.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>This sea-animal was nearly twice as long as many blue whales, and three times as long as a humpback whale, which usually grow to around 50ft long.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jim-corbett-is-indias-first-quarantine-facility-for-animals-292116">Jim Corbett is India's first quarantine facility for animals</a></strong></p>

<p>"We suspected these deep sea areas would be diverse but we have been blown away by the significance of what we have seen," Chief Scientist Dr. Nerida Wilson at the Schmidt Ocean Institute, said in the news release on the animal's discovery.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/land-animal-species-were-wiped-out-due-to-volcanic-eruption-over-250-million-years-ago-289476">Land, animal species were wiped out due to volcanic eruption over 250 million years ago</a></strong></p>

<p>The scientists are still working to know the exact length of the animal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>With the help of underwater robot “ROV SuBastian”, scientists from the Western Australian Museum, Curtin University, Geoscience Australia and Scripps Institution of Oceanography finished off 181 hours of deep sea exploration at depths of up to 4,500 meters.</p>

<p>The exploration also found several other deep-sea animals that had not yet been documented, which includes an octopus squid, a long-tailed sea cucumber and glass sponges.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With Reuters inputs)</em>&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Scientists have discovered the world's longest ever recorded animal in the deep-sea of Australia. This massive creature Siphonophore Apolemia's estimated length was 150 feet (46 meters) and was found near the coast of Western Australia.

Scientists have discovered the world's longest ever recorded animal in the deep-sea of Australia. This massive creature Siphonophore Apolemia's estimated length was 150 feet (46 meters) and was found near the coast of Western Australia. Siphonophore is made up of individual zooids who cloned themselves to form into one gigantic animal. This sea-animal was nearly twice as long as many blue whales, and three times as long as a humpback whale, which usually grow to around 50ft long. Also read | Jim Corbett is India's first quarantine facility for animals "We suspected these deep sea areas would be diverse but we have been blown away by the significance of what we have seen," Chief Scientist Dr. Nerida Wilson at the Schmidt Ocean Institute, said in the news release on the animal's discovery. Also read | Land, animal species were wiped out due to volcanic eruption over 250 million years ago The scientists are still working to know the exact length of the animal. With the help of underwater robot “ROV SuBastian”, scientists from the Western Australian Museum, Curtin University, Geoscience Australia and Scripps Institution of Oceanography finished off 181 hours of deep sea exploration at depths of up to 4,500 meters. The exploration also found several other deep-sea animals that had not yet been documented, which includes an octopus squid, a long-tailed sea cucumber and glass sponges. (With Reuters inputs)

Australia: 'Longest animal ever' found in deep sea

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidkZzJ6y52Vv8Y" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p>Amid all the coronavirus gloom and doom, a diner is delivering pizza and beer to remote ranches of Australia by plane. The country is strict lockdown since coronavirus cases started rising rapidly.</p>

<p>According to the latest figures, more than 4,400 people have infected coronavirus in Australia while 19 others have died.</p>

<p>The Dunmarra Wayside Inn, a usually bustling roadside diner in Australia's Northern Territory, used a small fixed-wing aircraft for a trial run of what it hopes will become a weekly flying takeaway service to far-flung cattle stations.</p>

<p>"The station that we did send them to absolutely loved them, so much that they ate them for breakfast the next morning," Ben Anderson, the inn's manager and pizza cook, told AFP on Friday.</p>

<p>The business had tried to keep the service under wraps until it was certain the plane deliveries would work. "We've put in a massive pizza oven, which we kept extremely secret," Anderson said.</p>

<p>But news of the tasty drop-off proved too hot to handle, and on Friday he was fielding calls from eager reporters -- with one radio station asking if he could deliver to their studio in Perth, over 3,000 kilometres (1,800 miles) away.</p>

<p>"That's probably a bit out of our range," he said. At the moment, Anderson and his team are only planning to fly to properties within 100 kilometres.</p>

<p>The idea to fly pizzas and other supplies to remote properties was more about supporting those in the area than simply a business venture, the inn's owner Gary Frost told national broadcaster ABC.</p>

<p>"We're just doing it as a friendly gesture to try and help people out,” he said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Amid all the coronavirus gloom and doom, a diner is delivering pizza and beer to remote ranches of Australia by plane. The country is strict lockdown since coronavirus cases started rising rapidly.

Amid all the coronavirus gloom and doom, a diner is delivering pizza and beer to remote ranches of Australia by plane. The country is strict lockdown since coronavirus cases started rising rapidly. According to the latest figures, more than 4,400 people have infected coronavirus in Australia while 19 others have died. The Dunmarra Wayside Inn, a usually bustling roadside diner in Australia's Northern Territory, used a small fixed-wing aircraft for a trial run of what it hopes will become a weekly flying takeaway service to far-flung cattle stations. "The station that we did send them to absolutely loved them, so much that they ate them for breakfast the next morning," Ben Anderson, the inn's manager and pizza cook, told AFP on Friday. The business had tried to keep the service under wraps until it was certain the plane deliveries would work. "We've put in a massive pizza oven, which we kept extremely secret," Anderson said. But news of the tasty drop-off proved too hot to handle, and on Friday he was fielding calls from eager reporters -- with one radio station asking if he could deliver to their studio in Perth, over 3,000 kilometres (1,800 miles) away. "That's probably a bit out of our range," he said. At the moment, Anderson and his team are only planning to fly to properties within 100 kilometres. The idea to fly pizzas and other supplies to remote properties was more about supporting those in the area than simply a business venture, the inn's owner Gary Frost told national broadcaster ABC. "We're just doing it as a friendly gesture to try and help people out,” he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid all the gloom and doom, Australia diner delivers pizza and beer by plane

With more Australians staying at home due to stricter confinement rules, some are now turning to adopting and fostering pets as new companions to see out their isolation during the coronavirus pandemic.

"A new best friend": Australians turn to pet adoptions to ward off isolation blues

<p>Officials in Australia will now fine and possibly jail people who venture outside amid the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his recent public address, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced new quarantine measures, and asked people to remain cautious in order to contain the pandemic.</p>

<p>Here on, no public gatherings are allowed in the country. A two-person cap has been imposed on gatherings.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/domestic-violence-cases-in-australia-shoot-up-amid-coronavirus-induced-lockdown-pm-announces-relief-package-289408" hreflang="en">Domestic violence cases in Australia shoot up amid coronavirus-induced lockdown, PM announces relief package</a></p>

<p>People aged 70 and above have been strictly advised to stay at home.</p>

<p>Additionally, anybody returning to the country from overseas will have to undergo a compulsory 12 day quarantine period.</p>

<p>&nbsp;The country is now enforcing stricter isolation measures in order to contain the virus. In the states of New South Wales and Victoria, authorities will fine people going outdoors.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/drink-vodka-attend-saunas-a-world-leaders-advice-on-fighting-covid-19-289446" hreflang="en">'Drink vodka, attend saunas': A world leader's advice on fighting COVID-19</a></p>

<p>The penalty will range between $1000 and $1600. If people break stricter rules in place, a jail term extending up to six months may be enforced.</p>

<p>"The advice now, and I should stress that that 10 person limit that is enforceable now in most states and territories and can carry very significant on the spot fines. That advice has now been strengthened to say that it should now be reduced to two persons in public spaces and other areas of gatherings. States and territories will determine whether they proceed to make this an enforceable limit, in the same way that the ten person limit is already being enforced”, announced the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-employs-technology-to-successfully-track-and-isolate-potential-carriers-of-covid-19-289397" hreflang="en">Russia employs technology to successfully track and isolate potential carriers of COVID-19</a></p>

<p>Due to strict measures, Australia has witnessed a dip in the number of reported cases. A drop of over 25-30 per cent has been recorded.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over 4,100 people have so far tested positive, with 17 deaths recorded in the country so far.</p>

<p>And, the government has announced a stimulus package worth $190 billion Australian dollars to battle the virus outbreak.</p>


Officials in Australia will now fine and possibly jail people who venture outside amid the coronavirus outbreak. During his recent public address, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced new quarantine measures, and asked people to remain cautious in order to contain the pandemic.

Officials in Australia will now fine and possibly jail people who venture outside amid the coronavirus outbreak. During his recent public address, Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced new quarantine measures, and asked people to remain cautious in order to contain the pandemic. Here on, no public gatherings are allowed in the country. A two-person cap has been imposed on gatherings. Also read: Domestic violence cases in Australia shoot up amid coronavirus-induced lockdown, PM announces relief package People aged 70 and above have been strictly advised to stay at home. Additionally, anybody returning to the country from overseas will have to undergo a compulsory 12 day quarantine period. The country is now enforcing stricter isolation measures in order to contain the virus. In the states of New South Wales and Victoria, authorities will fine people going outdoors. Also read: 'Drink vodka, attend saunas': A world leader's advice on fighting COVID-19 The penalty will range between $1000 and $1600. If people break stricter rules in place, a jail term extending up to six months may be enforced. "The advice now, and I should stress that that 10 person limit that is enforceable now in most states and territories and can carry very significant on the spot fines. That advice has now been strengthened to say that it should now be reduced to two persons in public spaces and other areas of gatherings. States and territories will determine whether they proceed to make this an enforceable limit, in the same way that the ten person limit is already being enforced”, announced the Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Also read: Russia employs technology to successfully track and isolate potential carriers of COVID-19 Due to strict measures, Australia has witnessed a dip in the number of reported cases. A drop of over 25-30 per cent has been recorded. Over 4,100 people have so far tested positive, with 17 deaths recorded in the country so far. And, the government has announced a stimulus package worth $190 billion Australian dollars to battle the virus outbreak.

Australia to jail people for breaking lockdown rules as COVID-19 fury rages on

<p>In the time of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-tops-21000-globally-288590">&nbsp;Coronavirus Pandemic</a>, here is something that will bring a smile on your face.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/doctor-who-made-contagion-look-real-now-has-coronavirus-if-it-can-hit-me-it-can-hit-anybody-288593" hreflang="en">Doctor who made 'Contagion' look real now has coronavirus: If it can hit me, it can hit anybody</a></p>

<p>Bindi Irwin,&nbsp;daughter of the late conservationist and television personality Steve Irwin, is married now.&nbsp;21-year-old, got married to her long time boyfriend Chandler Powell in a small ceremony.</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-KCn5SBLmD/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">March 25th 2020 ❤️ We held a small ceremony and I married my best friend. There are no words to describe the amount of love and light in my heart right now. We’ve planned this beautiful day for nearly a year and had to change everything, as we didn’t have guests at our wedding. This was a very difficult decision but important to keep everyone safe. We wish all of our friends and family could have been there with us, however it’s lovely that we will be able to share photos and videos. Right now we’re encouraging the world to hold onto hope and love, which will carry us forward during this profound time in history. Today we celebrated life and revelled in every beautiful moment we shared together in our Australia Zoo gardens. Mum helped me get ready, Robert walked me down the aisle, Chandler became my husband and together we lit a candle in Dad’s memory. We shared tears and smiles and love. Thankfully, since we all live at Australia Zoo as a family, we could be there for each other. To everyone reading this - stay safe, social distance and remember LOVE WINS!</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bindisueirwin/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Bindi Irwin</a> (@bindisueirwin) on <time datetime="2020-03-25T12:38:01+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 25, 2020 at 5:38am PDT</time></p>
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<p>TV personality shared the exciting news on Instagram &nbsp;after tying the knot, ''March 25th 2020 ❤️ We held a small ceremony and I married my best friend. There are no words to describe the amount of love and light in my heart right now. We’ve planned this beautiful day for nearly a year and had to change everything, as we didn’t have guests at our wedding''.<br />
<br />
''This was a very difficult decision but important to keep everyone safe. We wish all of our friends and family could have been there with us, however it’s lovely that we will be able to share photos and videos. Right now we’re encouraging the world to hold onto hope and love, which will carry us forward during this profound time in history. Today we celebrated life and revelled in every beautiful moment we shared together in our Australia Zoo gardens. Mum helped me get ready, Robert walked me down the aisle, Chandler became my husband and together we lit a candle in Dad’s memory. We shared tears and smiles and love. Thankfully, since we all live at Australia Zoo as a family, we could be there for each other. To everyone reading this - stay safe, social distance and remember LOVE WINS!''</p>

<p><strong>In pics:</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/8-new-web-shows-films-to-watch-as-you-quarantine-at-home-287555">&nbsp;8 new web shows, films to watch as you quarantine at home</a><br />
<br />
In this critical situation, when more than half world is under lockdown, Bindi’s mother,Terri Irwin, and younger brother, Robert Irwin, attended the wedding.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
The couple got married in the gardens of Australia Zoo in Queensland, which was opened by her grandparents in the 1970s and is still run by the Irwin family.&nbsp;</p>

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<p style=" margin:8px 0 0 0; padding:0 4px;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/B-Hg_mWB94v/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#000; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none; word-wrap:break-word;" target="_blank">Thank you for being my guiding light. You’re always with me.</a></p>

<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;">A post shared by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bindisueirwin/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px;" target="_blank"> Bindi Irwin</a> (@bindisueirwin) on <time datetime="2020-03-24T13:05:40+00:00" style=" font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px;">Mar 24, 2020 at 6:05am PDT</time></p>
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<p>Steve Irwin a.k.a 'the Crocodile Hunter,'&nbsp;died in 2006 at the age of 44, when a eight-foot-wide stingray went through his chest during filming a documentary.</p>


In the time of Coronavirus Pandemic, here is something that will bring a smile on your face. Also read: Doctor who made 'Contagion' look real now has coronavirus: If it can hit me, it can hit anybody Bindi Irwin, daughter of the late conservationist and television personality Steve Irwin, is married now.

In the time of Coronavirus Pandemic, here is something that will bring a smile on your face. Also read: Doctor who made 'Contagion' look real now has coronavirus: If it can hit me, it can hit anybody Bindi Irwin, daughter of the late conservationist and television personality Steve Irwin, is married now. 21-year-old, got married to her long time boyfriend Chandler Powell in a small ceremony. View this post on Instagram March 25th 2020 ❤️ We held a small ceremony and I married my best friend. There are no words to describe the amount of love and light in my heart right now. We’ve planned this beautiful day for nearly a year and had to change everything, as we didn’t have guests at our wedding. This was a very difficult decision but important to keep everyone safe. We wish all of our friends and family could have been there with us, however it’s lovely that we will be able to share photos and videos. Right now we’re encouraging the world to hold onto hope and love, which will carry us forward during this profound time in history. Today we celebrated life and revelled in every beautiful moment we shared together in our Australia Zoo gardens. Mum helped me get ready, Robert walked me down the aisle, Chandler became my husband and together we lit a candle in Dad’s memory. We shared tears and smiles and love. Thankfully, since we all live at Australia Zoo as a family, we could be there for each other. To everyone reading this - stay safe, social distance and remember LOVE WINS! A post shared by Bindi Irwin (@bindisueirwin) on Mar 25, 2020 at 5:38am PDT × TV personality shared the exciting news on Instagram after tying the knot, ''March 25th 2020 ❤️ We held a small ceremony and I married my best friend. There are no words to describe the amount of love and light in my heart right now. We’ve planned this beautiful day for nearly a year and had to change everything, as we didn’t have guests at our wedding''. ''This was a very difficult decision but important to keep everyone safe. We wish all of our friends and family could have been there with us, however it’s lovely that we will be able to share photos and videos. Right now we’re encouraging the world to hold onto hope and love, which will carry us forward during this profound time in history. Today we celebrated life and revelled in every beautiful moment we shared together in our Australia Zoo gardens. Mum helped me get ready, Robert walked me down the aisle, Chandler became my husband and together we lit a candle in Dad’s memory. We shared tears and smiles and love. Thankfully, since we all live at Australia Zoo as a family, we could be there for each other. To everyone reading this - stay safe, social distance and remember LOVE WINS!'' In pics: 8 new web shows, films to watch as you quarantine at home In this critical situation, when more than half world is under lockdown, Bindi’s mother,Terri Irwin, and younger brother, Robert Irwin, attended the wedding. The couple got married in the gardens of Australia Zoo in Queensland, which was opened by her grandparents in the 1970s and is still run by the Irwin family. View this post on Instagram Thank you for being my guiding light. You’re always with me. A post shared by Bindi Irwin (@bindisueirwin) on Mar 24, 2020 at 6:05am PDT × Steve Irwin a.k.a 'the Crocodile Hunter,' died in 2006 at the age of 44, when a eight-foot-wide stingray went through his chest during filming a documentary.

Bindi Irwin gets married in a small ceremony at Australian Zoo

<p>Jobless Australians flooded unemployment offices around the country Monday as Prime Minister Scott Morrison warned the coronavirus pandemic would cause an economic crisis akin to the Great Depression.'</p>

<p><strong>Also read&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-australian-beaches-locked-down-as-virus-cases-pass-1000-287779">COVID-19: Australian beaches locked down as virus cases pass 1,000</a></strong></p>

<p>After a record 29 years of economic growth, Australia is poised to spiral into recession as the global coronavirus outbreak wreaks havoc on the country's economy despite a Aus$189 billion ($109 billion) government relief package.</p>

<p>In scenes not seen in Australia for decades, queues stretched around the block at unemployment offices around the country as the forced closure of pubs, casinos, churches and gyms began at midday on Monday.</p>

<p>An online portal for government services also crashed as jobseekers rushed to register for income support payments, which have been temporarily doubled by Aus$550 a fortnight to help people cope with the coronavirus crisis.</p>

<p>With hundreds of thousands of jobs on the line, Morrison told his compatriots they faced an economic crisis "the likes of which we have not seen since the Great Depression", referring to the global financial meltdown in the late 1920s and 1930s.</p>

<p>"They are lining up at Centrelink offices as we speak -- something unimaginable at this scale, only weeks ago," he told Parliament.</p>

<p>"They have lost their jobs, many, and we know many more will. This is the biggest economic shock our nation has faced in generations."</p>

<p>Services Australia, which operates the social welfares offices known as Centrelink, urged people not to visit physical locations unless there was a "critical need" to do so.</p>

<p>After a key government website crashed, minister Stuart Robert initially claimed a demand surge had been worsened by hackers attempting a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack.</p>

<p>He later told Parliament the DDoS alarm had in fact been set off by almost 100,000 people trying to access the site at once.</p>

<p>Ahead of closing non-essential services, Australia had already shut its borders to international arrivals, while some interstate borders have been effectively shuttered and all non-essential travel is banned.</p>

<p>Morrison has warned the measures would remain in place across the country for up to six months, with stricter rules looming in an effort to contain the spread of coronavirus.</p>

<p>He said the once in a 100 years event meant that 2020 would be "the toughest year of our lives".</p>

<p>Australia's benchmark ASX 200 has lost 38 per cent on coronavirus fears since its peak in mid-February, falling on Monday to lows not seen since November 2012.</p>

<p>Seven people have died from the disease in Australia, which has a death rate of just 0.44 per cent compared to over four percent in countries like the United States, Britain and France.</p>

<p>The nation has recorded more than 1,600 cases of COVID-19, with infection rates accelerating in the most populous states.</p>


Jobless Australians flooded unemployment offices around the country Monday as Prime Minister Scott Morrison warned the coronavirus pandemic would cause an economic crisis akin to the Great Depression.

Jobless Australians flooded unemployment offices around the country Monday as Prime Minister Scott Morrison warned the coronavirus pandemic would cause an economic crisis akin to the Great Depression.' Also read | COVID-19: Australian beaches locked down as virus cases pass 1,000 After a record 29 years of economic growth, Australia is poised to spiral into recession as the global coronavirus outbreak wreaks havoc on the country's economy despite a Aus$189 billion ($109 billion) government relief package. In scenes not seen in Australia for decades, queues stretched around the block at unemployment offices around the country as the forced closure of pubs, casinos, churches and gyms began at midday on Monday. An online portal for government services also crashed as jobseekers rushed to register for income support payments, which have been temporarily doubled by Aus$550 a fortnight to help people cope with the coronavirus crisis. With hundreds of thousands of jobs on the line, Morrison told his compatriots they faced an economic crisis "the likes of which we have not seen since the Great Depression", referring to the global financial meltdown in the late 1920s and 1930s. "They are lining up at Centrelink offices as we speak -- something unimaginable at this scale, only weeks ago," he told Parliament. "They have lost their jobs, many, and we know many more will. This is the biggest economic shock our nation has faced in generations." Services Australia, which operates the social welfares offices known as Centrelink, urged people not to visit physical locations unless there was a "critical need" to do so. After a key government website crashed, minister Stuart Robert initially claimed a demand surge had been worsened by hackers attempting a distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack. He later told Parliament the DDoS alarm had in fact been set off by almost 100,000 people trying to access the site at once. Ahead of closing non-essential services, Australia had already shut its borders to international arrivals, while some interstate borders have been effectively shuttered and all non-essential travel is banned. Morrison has warned the measures would remain in place across the country for up to six months, with stricter rules looming in an effort to contain the spread of coronavirus. He said the once in a 100 years event meant that 2020 would be "the toughest year of our lives". Australia's benchmark ASX 200 has lost 38 per cent on coronavirus fears since its peak in mid-February, falling on Monday to lows not seen since November 2012. Seven people have died from the disease in Australia, which has a death rate of just 0.44 per cent compared to over four percent in countries like the United States, Britain and France. The nation has recorded more than 1,600 cases of COVID-19, with infection rates accelerating in the most populous states.

Echoes of Great Depression as jobless Australians queue for help

<p>Plans for Australia's Super Rugby clubs to play a domestic competition were put on hold Monday and training halted after tough new government measures to contain the coronavirus.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-and-canada-pull-out-from-tokyo-olympics-amid-global-pandemic-scare-287978" hreflang="en">Australia and Canada pull out from Tokyo Olympics amid global pandemic scare</a></p>

<p>The four teams, plus the axed Western Force, were due to kick off a round robin tournament on April 3 after the southern hemisphere club championship, which features 15 teams from five countries, was suspended.</p>

<p>But that has now been delayed until at least May 1 following government recommendations against non-essential domestic travel and the shutdown of a range of businesses countrywide.</p>

<p>Western Australia, where Western Force are based, will also close its borders on Tuesday, effectively preventing movement in or out of the state without observing two-week quarantine periods.</p>

<p>Rugby Australia chief Raelene Castle said the game's stakeholders were united behind the move.</p>

<p>"The decision to postpone the restart of the competition until May 1 is in line with the suspension of all community rugby in Australia and will give us the opportunity to review our position across the whole rugby landscape in a month's time," she said.</p>

<p>"While this is having an unprecedented impact on our&nbsp;sport&nbsp;and many other&nbsp;sports, this is bigger than&nbsp;sport&nbsp;and that is why we will continue to put the health and welfare of our people above anything else."</p>

<p>Western Force, Queensland Reds, NSW Waratahs, Melbourne Rebels and ACT Brumbies have all stopped training for an initial two weeks, with modified programmes resuming after that.</p>

<p>A halt was called to the broader Super Rugby competition after seven rounds this month when New Zealand and Australia said all inbound travellers must self-isolate for 14 days.</p>

<p>Australia has recorded more than 1,600 cases and seven deaths from COVID-19.</p>

<p>Most sporting codes in Australia, including cricket, basketball, and Aussie Rules, have cancelled or suspended their seasons, although rugby league and football continue to press ahead without spectators.</p>


Plans for Australia's Super Rugby clubs to play a domestic competition were put on hold Monday and training halted after tough new government measures to contain the coronavirus.

Plans for Australia's Super Rugby clubs to play a domestic competition were put on hold Monday and training halted after tough new government measures to contain the coronavirus. Also read: Australia and Canada pull out from Tokyo Olympics amid global pandemic scare The four teams, plus the axed Western Force, were due to kick off a round robin tournament on April 3 after the southern hemisphere club championship, which features 15 teams from five countries, was suspended. But that has now been delayed until at least May 1 following government recommendations against non-essential domestic travel and the shutdown of a range of businesses countrywide. Western Australia, where Western Force are based, will also close its borders on Tuesday, effectively preventing movement in or out of the state without observing two-week quarantine periods. Rugby Australia chief Raelene Castle said the game's stakeholders were united behind the move. "The decision to postpone the restart of the competition until May 1 is in line with the suspension of all community rugby in Australia and will give us the opportunity to review our position across the whole rugby landscape in a month's time," she said. "While this is having an unprecedented impact on our sport and many other sports, this is bigger than sport and that is why we will continue to put the health and welfare of our people above anything else." Western Force, Queensland Reds, NSW Waratahs, Melbourne Rebels and ACT Brumbies have all stopped training for an initial two weeks, with modified programmes resuming after that. A halt was called to the broader Super Rugby competition after seven rounds this month when New Zealand and Australia said all inbound travellers must self-isolate for 14 days. Australia has recorded more than 1,600 cases and seven deaths from COVID-19. Most sporting codes in Australia, including cricket, basketball, and Aussie Rules, have cancelled or suspended their seasons, although rugby league and football continue to press ahead without spectators.

Australian Super Rugby competition put on hold due to virus

<p>Two prominent sporting nations have announced that they will not be sending contingents to the Olympic Games in Tokyo, the first time a sort of sporting boycott has been summoned since the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/canada-athletes-will-not-compete-at-tokyo-2020-games-due-to-risks-of-covid-19-287963">Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19</a></p>

<p>The Canadian Olympic Committee has made it clear that it would not be sending its team for both the Olympics and the Paralympics.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">RELEASE: The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee have made the difficult decision to not send Canadian teams to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the summer of 2020: <a href="https://t.co/HyOBA5wwp4">https://t.co/HyOBA5wwp4</a> <a href="https://t.co/x9OWABVxMA">pic.twitter.com/x9OWABVxMA</a></p>
— Team Canada PR (@TeamCanadaPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamCanadaPR/status/1241900193395740674?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>They want the games to be postponed by a year to the summer of 2021.</p>

<p>Canadian officials have made it clear that this is not just about athlete health but public health and that it was not safe for their team and support staff to continue training in the current circumstances.</p>

<p>Canada won a total of 22 medals at the 2016 Olympics and finished 20th on the medal table.</p>

<p>That announcement was followed by a bigger one from the Australia Olympic committee which asked its team to prepare for an Olympics in the summer of 2021.</p>

<p>Australia has made it clear that a team cannot be assembled at the moment due to the lockdowns in place globally due to the coronavirus pandemic.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">AOC CEO Matt Carroll to address the media this afternoon on today’s advice that the AOC cannot assemble a Team for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tokyo2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tokyo2020</a><br />
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When: 3.30pm Monday 23rd March, 2020<br />
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Where: Grassed area in front of Museum of Contemporary Art<br />
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Who: Matt Carroll, AOC CEO<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TokyoTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TokyoTogether</a> <a href="https://t.co/eee5vza3aG">pic.twitter.com/eee5vza3aG</a></p>
— AUS Olympic Team (@AUSOlympicTeam) <a href="https://twitter.com/AUSOlympicTeam/status/1241933521867788288?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>Australia is one of the most successful nations at the summer Olympics with 497 medals.</p>

<p>Australia's chef-de-mission Ian Chesterman said: "The Games can't be held in July, our athletes have been magnificent in their positive attitude to training and preparing, but the stress and uncertainty have been extremely challenging for them."</p>

<p>Chesterman appended that deferring the Games until next year "will allow athletes from around the world to properly prepare with the hope the coronavirus crisis will be under control".</p>

<p>Therefore, the Aussie board have decided to plan for the Summer Olympics next year.&nbsp;</p>


Two prominent sporting nations have announced that they will not be sending contingents to the Olympic Games in Tokyo, the first time a sort of sporting boycott has been summoned since the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics.

Two prominent sporting nations have announced that they will not be sending contingents to the Olympic Games in Tokyo, the first time a sort of sporting boycott has been summoned since the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics. Also read: Canada: Athletes will not compete at Tokyo 2020 Games due to risks of COVID-19 The Canadian Olympic Committee has made it clear that it would not be sending its team for both the Olympics and the Paralympics. RELEASE: The Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee have made the difficult decision to not send Canadian teams to the Olympic and Paralympic Games in the summer of 2020: https://t.co/HyOBA5wwp4 pic.twitter.com/x9OWABVxMA — Team Canada PR (@TeamCanadaPR) March 23, 2020 × They want the games to be postponed by a year to the summer of 2021. Canadian officials have made it clear that this is not just about athlete health but public health and that it was not safe for their team and support staff to continue training in the current circumstances. Canada won a total of 22 medals at the 2016 Olympics and finished 20th on the medal table. That announcement was followed by a bigger one from the Australia Olympic committee which asked its team to prepare for an Olympics in the summer of 2021. Australia has made it clear that a team cannot be assembled at the moment due to the lockdowns in place globally due to the coronavirus pandemic. AOC CEO Matt Carroll to address the media this afternoon on today’s advice that the AOC cannot assemble a Team for #Tokyo2020 When: 3.30pm Monday 23rd March, 2020 Where: Grassed area in front of Museum of Contemporary Art Who: Matt Carroll, AOC CEO#TokyoTogether pic.twitter.com/eee5vza3aG — AUS Olympic Team (@AUSOlympicTeam) March 23, 2020 × Australia is one of the most successful nations at the summer Olympics with 497 medals. Australia's chef-de-mission Ian Chesterman said: "The Games can't be held in July, our athletes have been magnificent in their positive attitude to training and preparing, but the stress and uncertainty have been extremely challenging for them." Chesterman appended that deferring the Games until next year "will allow athletes from around the world to properly prepare with the hope the coronavirus crisis will be under control". Therefore, the Aussie board have decided to plan for the Summer Olympics next year.

Australia and Canada pull out from Tokyo Olympics amid global pandemic scare

<p>New Zealand abandoned their one-day&nbsp;cricket&nbsp;tour of Australia on Saturday after Wellington tightened border restrictions to combat the spread of coronavirus.</p>

<p>The Blacks Caps lost the opening game of the three-match series by 71 runs and were due to play the second in Sydney on Sunday.</p>

<p>But they will fly home immediately after New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced everyone entering the country from midnight Sunday would have to self-isolate for 14 days.</p>

<p>"In response to the New Zealand government's latest travel restrictions,&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Australia has been advised the New Zealand team will be returning home immediately,"&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;Australia said.</p>

<p>The two remaining matches, along with three upcoming Twenty20 clashes between the two countries in New Zealand, were postponed.</p>

<p>"Cricket&nbsp;Australia and New Zealand&nbsp;Cricket&nbsp;will work together to identify a future opportunity to play both series," it added.</p>

<p>Ardern said the self-quarantine order would be reviewed after 16 days.</p>

<p>New Zealand so far only has six confirmed cases of the virus and has recorded no fatalities.</p>

<p>The series in Australia was already being played without fans to curb the spread of coronavirus, which has forced a swathe of sporting events behind closed doors.</p>

<p>After the opening match on Friday, New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson was tested for the virus and placed in isolation after complaining of a sore throat.</p>

<p>The scare followed Australian paceman Kane Richardson being isolated and tested for COVID-19 after suffering a sore throat on Thursday. He missed the opening ODI, but was cleared of the virus late Friday.</p>


New Zealand abandoned their one-day cricket tour of Australia on Saturday after Wellington tightened border restrictions to combat the spread of coronavirus. The Blacks Caps lost the opening game of the three-match series by 71 runs and were due to play the second in Sydney on Sunday.

New Zealand abandoned their one-day cricket tour of Australia on Saturday after Wellington tightened border restrictions to combat the spread of coronavirus. The Blacks Caps lost the opening game of the three-match series by 71 runs and were due to play the second in Sydney on Sunday. But they will fly home immediately after New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern announced everyone entering the country from midnight Sunday would have to self-isolate for 14 days. "In response to the New Zealand government's latest travel restrictions, Cricket Australia has been advised the New Zealand team will be returning home immediately," Cricket Australia said. The two remaining matches, along with three upcoming Twenty20 clashes between the two countries in New Zealand, were postponed. "Cricket Australia and New Zealand Cricket will work together to identify a future opportunity to play both series," it added. Ardern said the self-quarantine order would be reviewed after 16 days. New Zealand so far only has six confirmed cases of the virus and has recorded no fatalities. The series in Australia was already being played without fans to curb the spread of coronavirus, which has forced a swathe of sporting events behind closed doors. After the opening match on Friday, New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson was tested for the virus and placed in isolation after complaining of a sore throat. The scare followed Australian paceman Kane Richardson being isolated and tested for COVID-19 after suffering a sore throat on Thursday. He missed the opening ODI, but was cleared of the virus late Friday.

New Zealand abandon Australia cricket tour after new travel measures

<p>Australia&nbsp;moved to lock down isolated indigenous areas on Friday, in a bid to protect Aboriginal communities already burdened with chronic illness and poverty from the fast-spreading coronavirus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced travel restrictions "into remote&nbsp;indigenous communities" were being introduced as the number of COVID-19 cases in the country neared 900.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-human-biosecurity-emergency-australia-bans-non-residents-from-arrival-287291">After human biosecurity emergency, Australia bans non-residents from arrival</a></strong></p>

<p>Most infections have so far been detected in urban areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move to protect indigenous populations could pave the way for the vast Northern Territory and other areas to be cut off from the rest of the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Australia cuts rates to record low amid coronavirus concerns</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-cuts-rates-to-record-low-amid-coronavirus-concerns-covid-19-284191/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Health experts have warned that high rates of chronic illness, overcrowded housing and poor access to medical facilities in remote indigenous communities could exacerbate the impact of the virus.</p>

<p>"Just an extraordinarily high number of people have diabetes and have had a heart attack or stroke, things like that," Jason Agostino, a medical adviser for the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, told AFP.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australian-pacer-kane-richardson-cleared-of-coronavirus-286219">Australian pacer Kane Richardson cleared of coronavirus</a></strong></p>

<p>"We know that particularly people that have had a heart attack and stroke,&nbsp;from the data from China&nbsp;suggests that, they're at the highest risk."</p>

<p>Earlier this week a South Australian indigenous council announced they were&nbsp;restricting&nbsp;access&nbsp;for outside visitors in a bid to protect the community from the virus.</p>

<p>The council also encouraged locals to remain home, a move mirrored in indigenous centres around the country.</p>

<p>Research suggests the outbreak of Swine Flu in 2009 impacted indigenous Australians much harder than the rest of the country, with three times more Aboriginal people hospitalised with the disease.</p>

<p>Life expectancy for&nbsp;Aboriginal&nbsp;Australians is about eight years lower than the national average.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Indigenous children are twice as likely to die before their fifth birthday, according to official statistics.</p>

<p>The government's announcement stopped short of calling in army medical teams, a move urged by some Aboriginal health groups.</p>

<p>The extreme isolation of some communities made it particularly hard to combat the disease, Agostino said.</p>

<p>"We're talking hundreds of kilometres from the nearest hospital and days until we even get the results of the COVID tests, with some people we're talking about more than a week to get a result," he said.</p>

<p>Many indigenous Australians also live in overcrowded housing where self-isolation was not possible, he added.&nbsp;</p>


Australia moved to lock down isolated indigenous areas on Friday, in a bid to protect Aboriginal communities already burdened with chronic illness and poverty from the fast-spreading coronavirus.

Australia moved to lock down isolated indigenous areas on Friday, in a bid to protect Aboriginal communities already burdened with chronic illness and poverty from the fast-spreading coronavirus. Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced travel restrictions "into remote indigenous communities" were being introduced as the number of COVID-19 cases in the country neared 900. Also read: After human biosecurity emergency, Australia bans non-residents from arrival Most infections have so far been detected in urban areas. The move to protect indigenous populations could pave the way for the vast Northern Territory and other areas to be cut off from the rest of the country. Watch: Australia cuts rates to record low amid coronavirus concerns Health experts have warned that high rates of chronic illness, overcrowded housing and poor access to medical facilities in remote indigenous communities could exacerbate the impact of the virus. "Just an extraordinarily high number of people have diabetes and have had a heart attack or stroke, things like that," Jason Agostino, a medical adviser for the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, told AFP. Also read: Australian pacer Kane Richardson cleared of coronavirus "We know that particularly people that have had a heart attack and stroke, from the data from China suggests that, they're at the highest risk." Earlier this week a South Australian indigenous council announced they were restricting access for outside visitors in a bid to protect the community from the virus. The council also encouraged locals to remain home, a move mirrored in indigenous centres around the country. Research suggests the outbreak of Swine Flu in 2009 impacted indigenous Australians much harder than the rest of the country, with three times more Aboriginal people hospitalised with the disease. Life expectancy for Aboriginal Australians is about eight years lower than the national average. Indigenous children are twice as likely to die before their fifth birthday, according to official statistics. The government's announcement stopped short of calling in army medical teams, a move urged by some Aboriginal health groups. The extreme isolation of some communities made it particularly hard to combat the disease, Agostino said. "We're talking hundreds of kilometres from the nearest hospital and days until we even get the results of the COVID tests, with some people we're talking about more than a week to get a result," he said. Many indigenous Australians also live in overcrowded housing where self-isolation was not possible, he added.

Australia restricts travel over virus fears to protect indigenous tribes

<p>Cricket Australia is looking forward to holding the ICC men's T20 World Cup as per the schedule despite coronavirus fears. Although they have admitted that the situation is still fluid.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/my-focus-is-on-ab-de-villiers-breaks-his-silence-on-south-africa-comeback-287230" hreflang="en">'My focus is on...' - AB de Villiers breaks his silence on South Africa comeback</a></p>

<p>The world cup is set to begin on October later this year, the tournament will be played across seven venues in Australia. Team Australia will play the tournament despite their rest of the season got cancelled due to the global pandemic. India and Afghanistan are due to visit Australia for the Test series which is yet to be called off.</p>

<p>Cricket Australia chairman Kevin Roberts was hopeful that things will get back to normal in few weeks, he said: "We're really hoping that all forms of sport can be played again in a few weeks' or a few months' time."</p>

<p>"None of us are experts in this situation obviously, so our hope is that we're back in very much normal circumstances come October and November when the men's T20 World Cup is to be played.</p>

<p>"And at this stage we're planning on November 15, to have a full house at the MCG (for the final) to inspire the world through men's cricket as the women's cricketers did here just last week," he added.</p>

<p>Australia has more than 500 cases of coronavirus and there is an acceleration in the infection. Six deaths were reported in the country due to the novel virus.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier this year, Australia's women's team lifted their fifth T20 world cup after an emphatic victory over the 'Women in Blue'.</p>


Cricket Australia is looking forward to holding the ICC men's T20 World Cup as per the schedule despite coronavirus fears. Although they have admitted that the situation is still fluid.

Cricket Australia is looking forward to holding the ICC men's T20 World Cup as per the schedule despite coronavirus fears. Although they have admitted that the situation is still fluid. Also read: 'My focus is on...' - AB de Villiers breaks his silence on South Africa comeback The world cup is set to begin on October later this year, the tournament will be played across seven venues in Australia. Team Australia will play the tournament despite their rest of the season got cancelled due to the global pandemic. India and Afghanistan are due to visit Australia for the Test series which is yet to be called off. Cricket Australia chairman Kevin Roberts was hopeful that things will get back to normal in few weeks, he said: "We're really hoping that all forms of sport can be played again in a few weeks' or a few months' time." "None of us are experts in this situation obviously, so our hope is that we're back in very much normal circumstances come October and November when the men's T20 World Cup is to be played. "And at this stage we're planning on November 15, to have a full house at the MCG (for the final) to inspire the world through men's cricket as the women's cricketers did here just last week," he added. Australia has more than 500 cases of coronavirus and there is an acceleration in the infection. Six deaths were reported in the country due to the novel virus. Earlier this year, Australia's women's team lifted their fifth T20 world cup after an emphatic victory over the 'Women in Blue'.

Cricket Australia looking forward to hold this year's ICC T20 World Cup as per schedule

Humanity is in a race against time to find a cure for the coronavirus, the virus has killed over 7,300 people and has infected more than 185,000 globally.

Humanity in a race against time for a cure

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has proposed a joint G20 strategy to fight Coronavirus after finalizing time-schedule for SAARC nations video conference. This was confirmed by Australian PM Scott Morrison at a press conference.

World leaders laud PM Modi's initiative, Australia welcomes PM Modi's calls for G20 linkup as well

<p>One of Australia's highest-profile ministers, Peter Dutton, who is in charge of home affairs, said he had tested positive for coronavirus on Friday and was admitted to hospital in the northeastern state of Queensland.</p>

<p>Australia has recorded 156 infections and three deaths from the flu-like disease, but authorities expect a rapid increase in coming weeks, with the arrival of the southern hemisphere winter.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-markets-plunge-deepens-as-coronavirus-panic-worsens-286011">&nbsp;World markets plunge deepens as coronavirus panic worsens</a></strong></p>

<p>Dutton, a former health minister, attended a meeting in Sydney on Tuesday at which he met Prime Minister Scott Morrison and other cabinet members for a few hours, a spokeswoman said.</p>

<p>"This morning, I woke up with a temperature and sore throat," Dutton said in a statement issued by his office, adding that Queensland health authorities told him on Friday afternoon that his test had proved positive.</p>

<p><strong>Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-australia-tells-citizens-to-reconsider-all-foreign-travel-286079">COVID-19: Australia tells citizens to reconsider all foreign travel</a></strong></p>

<p>"I feel fine and will provide an update in due course."</p>

<p>Morrison has advised against gatherings of more than 500 people but said he would still go to a weekend rugby game, as health officials warned that millions of Australians could get infected within months.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canadian-pm-justin-trudeau-to-be-in-quarantine-after-wife-tests-covid-19-positive-286076">Canadian PM Justin Trudeau to be in quarantine after wife tests COVID-19 positive</a></strong></p>

<p>A media representative for Morrison did not immediately return an email seeking comment.</p>


One of Australia's highest-profile ministers, Peter Dutton, who is in charge of home affairs, said he had tested positive for coronavirus on Friday and was admitted to hospital in the northeastern state of Queensland.

One of Australia's highest-profile ministers, Peter Dutton, who is in charge of home affairs, said he had tested positive for coronavirus on Friday and was admitted to hospital in the northeastern state of Queensland. Australia has recorded 156 infections and three deaths from the flu-like disease, but authorities expect a rapid increase in coming weeks, with the arrival of the southern hemisphere winter. Also read: World markets plunge deepens as coronavirus panic worsens Dutton, a former health minister, attended a meeting in Sydney on Tuesday at which he met Prime Minister Scott Morrison and other cabinet members for a few hours, a spokeswoman said. "This morning, I woke up with a temperature and sore throat," Dutton said in a statement issued by his office, adding that Queensland health authorities told him on Friday afternoon that his test had proved positive. Also see: COVID-19: Australia tells citizens to reconsider all foreign travel "I feel fine and will provide an update in due course." Morrison has advised against gatherings of more than 500 people but said he would still go to a weekend rugby game, as health officials warned that millions of Australians could get infected within months. Also read: Canadian PM Justin Trudeau to be in quarantine after wife tests COVID-19 positive A media representative for Morrison did not immediately return an email seeking comment.

Australian Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton tested positive for coronavirus

Oscar-winning actor Tom Hanks and his wife, actress Rita Wilson, have both tested positive for coronavirus in Australia, the actor said on Twitter. The actor, 63, said that he and Wilson, also 63, were tested in Australia, where he is working on a film after they felt tired with slight fevers. "To play things right, as is needed in the world right now, we were tested for the coronavirus and were found to be positive," Hanks said in the tweet.

Tom Hanks and wife Rita Wilson test positive for coronavirus

<p>Lawyers for disgraced ex-Vatican treasurer and Cardinal George Pell claimed that he remains behind bars for child sex abuse based on "wrong" and "egregious" legal decisions, as they concluded a last-ditch appeal in Australia's top court.</p>

<p>The 78-year-old former Vatican treasurer is trying to overturn a six-year sentence for sexually assaulting two choirboys in the 1990s.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australias-cardinal-george-pell-remanded-into-custody-for-child-sex-offences-199969">Australia's Cardinal George Pell remanded into custody for child sex offences</a></strong></p>

<p>He began serving a six-year prison sentence a year ago, becoming the highest-ranking Catholic clergyman worldwide to be jailed for child sex offences.</p>

<p>Pell's barrister Bret Walker told the High Court there were "compounding improbabilities" in the case that had pitted the powerful clergyman against a former choirboy victim.</p>

<p>Walker said the "shocking allegations" of sexual abuse were said to have taken place in a crowded cathedral and another public space, which he argued was "quite different" from typical sexual offending that tended to occur in "covert" settings.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australian-court-to-consider-cardinal-george-pells-appeal-hearing-in-june-201572">Australian court to consider Cardinal George Pell's appeal&nbsp;</a></strong></p>

<p>In written submissions the prosecution&nbsp;called the appeal "problematic", saying the defence argument "glosses over evidence" that supports the victim's account.</p>

<p>The High Court of Australia began a two-day hearing on Wednesday that marks Pell's last avenue of appeal.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court's seven judges could decide to reject the appeal, leaving Pell to serve the remainder of his sentence, or allow it, giving him the prospect of walking free. They could also send the case back to a lower court to reconsider.</p>

<p>A jury found him guilty in December 2018 on five counts of abusing the 13-year-old choirboys at a Melbourne cathedral when he was archbishop of the city.</p>

<p>That verdict was upheld in August 2019 by a three-judge panel in a 2-1 decision, finding that it was open to the trial jury to find Pell guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.</p>


Lawyers for disgraced ex-Vatican treasurer and Cardinal George Pell claimed that he remains behind bars for child sex abuse based on "wrong" and "egregious" legal decisions, as they concluded a last-ditch appeal in Australia's top court.

Lawyers for disgraced ex-Vatican treasurer and Cardinal George Pell claimed that he remains behind bars for child sex abuse based on "wrong" and "egregious" legal decisions, as they concluded a last-ditch appeal in Australia's top court. The 78-year-old former Vatican treasurer is trying to overturn a six-year sentence for sexually assaulting two choirboys in the 1990s. Also read: Australia's Cardinal George Pell remanded into custody for child sex offences He began serving a six-year prison sentence a year ago, becoming the highest-ranking Catholic clergyman worldwide to be jailed for child sex offences. Pell's barrister Bret Walker told the High Court there were "compounding improbabilities" in the case that had pitted the powerful clergyman against a former choirboy victim. Walker said the "shocking allegations" of sexual abuse were said to have taken place in a crowded cathedral and another public space, which he argued was "quite different" from typical sexual offending that tended to occur in "covert" settings. Also read: Australian court to consider Cardinal George Pell's appeal In written submissions the prosecution called the appeal "problematic", saying the defence argument "glosses over evidence" that supports the victim's account. The High Court of Australia began a two-day hearing on Wednesday that marks Pell's last avenue of appeal. The court's seven judges could decide to reject the appeal, leaving Pell to serve the remainder of his sentence, or allow it, giving him the prospect of walking free. They could also send the case back to a lower court to reconsider. A jury found him guilty in December 2018 on five counts of abusing the 13-year-old choirboys at a Melbourne cathedral when he was archbishop of the city. That verdict was upheld in August 2019 by a three-judge panel in a 2-1 decision, finding that it was open to the trial jury to find Pell guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Child sex conviction 'wrong', says lawyers of ex- Vatican treasurer Pell

<p>Lewis Hamilton described a visit Tuesday to parts of Australia ravaged by months-long bushfires as heartbreaking, saying it was "one of those days that really put things into perspective".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/formula-one-ferrari-wants-to-put-smiles-on-faces-as-italy-locks-down-285366" hreflang="en">Formula One: Ferrari wants to put 'smiles on faces' as Italy locks down</a></p>

<p>The six-time Formula One world champion, who starts his title defence at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne this weekend, is a passionate supporter of environmental and animal welfare issues.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I had the incredible opportunity to visit NSW, Australia to see the admirable work <a href="https://twitter.com/WIRES_NSW?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WIRES_NSW</a> is doing to care, rehabilitate and preserve the country’s native wildlife following the recent, devastating fires. It was one of those days that really put things into perspective. 🐨 <a href="https://t.co/a1wX1QYuQU">pic.twitter.com/a1wX1QYuQU</a></p>
— Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) <a href="https://twitter.com/LewisHamilton/status/1237142522637496322?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<p>At the height of the bushfires, which have now been extinguished, he donated US$500,000 to "support the animals, wildlife volunteers and rural fire services" affected by the crisis.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/f1-bahrain-grand-prix-will-be-held-with-no-spectators-due-to-coronavirus-fears-285163" hreflang="en">F1: Bahrain Grand Prix will be held with no spectators due to coronavirus fears</a></p>

<p>After arriving from London, he headed straight from Sydney airport to the New South Wales countryside to see the devastation wrought by the fires, which experts warned may have killed up to one billion creatures.</p>

<p>"When you read about it or when you watch it on TV it looks horrifying but when you see the real devastation up close, and how vast the land is, it's even more heartbreaking," he said in a video posted on his social media channels.</p>

<p>"Knowing over, I think, 1.5 billion animals perished during that time as well, it was really important for me to try and support some of the people out there who are trying to look after them and rescue the animals.</p>

<p>"I wanted to come out here and see it. It's been a really amazing experience."</p>

<p>He added to his 14.6 million Instagram followers that "it was one of those days that really put things into perspective" after being shown recovering koalas, baby kangaroos and wombats.</p>

<p>The fires, which killed more than 30 people and destroyed thousands of homes, began in September and were only put out in February.</p>

<p>Scientists say they were fuelled by drought and unfavourable weather conditions that were exacerbated by climate change.</p>


Lewis Hamilton described a visit Tuesday to parts of Australia ravaged by months-long bushfires as heartbreaking, saying it was "one of those days that really put things into perspective".

Lewis Hamilton described a visit Tuesday to parts of Australia ravaged by months-long bushfires as heartbreaking, saying it was "one of those days that really put things into perspective". Also read: Formula One: Ferrari wants to put 'smiles on faces' as Italy locks down The six-time Formula One world champion, who starts his title defence at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne this weekend, is a passionate supporter of environmental and animal welfare issues. I had the incredible opportunity to visit NSW, Australia to see the admirable work @WIRES_NSW is doing to care, rehabilitate and preserve the country’s native wildlife following the recent, devastating fires. It was one of those days that really put things into perspective. 🐨 pic.twitter.com/a1wX1QYuQU — Lewis Hamilton (@LewisHamilton) March 9, 2020 × At the height of the bushfires, which have now been extinguished, he donated US$500,000 to "support the animals, wildlife volunteers and rural fire services" affected by the crisis. Also read: F1: Bahrain Grand Prix will be held with no spectators due to coronavirus fears After arriving from London, he headed straight from Sydney airport to the New South Wales countryside to see the devastation wrought by the fires, which experts warned may have killed up to one billion creatures. "When you read about it or when you watch it on TV it looks horrifying but when you see the real devastation up close, and how vast the land is, it's even more heartbreaking," he said in a video posted on his social media channels. "Knowing over, I think, 1.5 billion animals perished during that time as well, it was really important for me to try and support some of the people out there who are trying to look after them and rescue the animals. "I wanted to come out here and see it. It's been a really amazing experience." He added to his 14.6 million Instagram followers that "it was one of those days that really put things into perspective" after being shown recovering koalas, baby kangaroos and wombats. The fires, which killed more than 30 people and destroyed thousands of homes, began in September and were only put out in February. Scientists say they were fuelled by drought and unfavourable weather conditions that were exacerbated by climate change.

'Heartbreaking' - Lewis Hamilton visits fire-ravaged Australia

<p>Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format.</p>

<p>Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13.</p>

<p>The series provides an opportunity to the Aussies to look for a batsman who could play the role of a `finisher`.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/ipl/ipl-2020-dhoni-receives-grand-welcome-at-chennai-ahead-of-practice-session-283661">IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session</a></p>

<p>"We have been fortunate in the past with a Mike Hussey or a Michael Bevan who are masters at it. MS Dhoni is a master of it, Jos Buttler has been brilliant at it for England," ICC quoted langer as saying.</p>

<p>"What I`ve learned is everyone in the world is looking for it," he added.</p>

<p>South Africa thrashed Australia 3-0 in the recently concluded ODI series. In the series, Mitchell Marsh played at number 6 in the second and third games and scored 32 and 36 runs respectively.</p>

<p>Langer feels that the South African series provides a good opportunity for the batsman."So it`s a role that`s there for someone to grab hold of," said Langer.</p>

<p>"No one at this stage has absolutely secured it, have they? But there are good opportunities there for someone to do that," he added.</p>

<p>Australia and New Zealand will face each other in the first ODI on Friday, March 13.</p>

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Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format. Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13.

Former cricketer and Australia's head coach Justin Langer said that the team is looking for a finisher like Mahendra Singh Dhoni in the limited-overs format. Australia will take on New Zealand in a three-match ODI series from March 13. The series provides an opportunity to the Aussies to look for a batsman who could play the role of a `finisher`. Also Read: IPL 2020: Dhoni receives grand welcome at Chennai ahead of practice session "We have been fortunate in the past with a Mike Hussey or a Michael Bevan who are masters at it. MS Dhoni is a master of it, Jos Buttler has been brilliant at it for England," ICC quoted langer as saying. "What I`ve learned is everyone in the world is looking for it," he added. South Africa thrashed Australia 3-0 in the recently concluded ODI series. In the series, Mitchell Marsh played at number 6 in the second and third games and scored 32 and 36 runs respectively. Langer feels that the South African series provides a good opportunity for the batsman."So it`s a role that`s there for someone to grab hold of," said Langer. "No one at this stage has absolutely secured it, have they? But there are good opportunities there for someone to do that," he added. Australia and New Zealand will face each other in the first ODI on Friday, March 13.

'Dhoni is a master of white-ball finisher': Justin Langer

<p>South Korea's total number of novel coronavirus cases -- the largest outside China, where the disease first emerged approached 6,000 on Thursday as authorities announced a ban on face mask exports.</p>

<p>Total infections stood at 5,766, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said, up 145, with 35 deaths.</p>

<p>Australia announced Thursday it would impose an entry ban on foreigners who have recently been in South Korea, joining 36 countries and regions that have taken similar measures so far according to the foreign ministry in Seoul.</p>

<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/290-million-students-out-of-school-as-global-virus-battle-intensifies-284361">290 million students out of school as global virus battle intensifies</a></strong></p>

<p>Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said face mask exports would be banned from Friday.</p>

<p>Masks have become standard wear throughout South Korea and demand has surged, with long queues forming as authorities struggle to ensure a sufficient supply.</p>

<p>"Most people are spending hours queueing," Chung told a meeting in Daegu, the centre of the epidemic in South Korea, where he is leading the government response.</p>

<p><strong>Also see: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-coronavirus-deaths-in-us-as-lawmakers-reach-83-billion-funding-deal-284353"><strong>New coronavirus deaths in US as lawmakers reach $8.3 billion funding deal</strong></a></p>

<p>"I feel heavy responsibility for people's suffering from the shortage," he said, adding distribution would prioritise medical and disinfection workers.</p>

<p>Manufacturers were last month limited to exporting 10 percent of their production.</p>

<p>Nearly 90 percent of South Korea's cases are in Daegu with more than 4,300 cases confirmed there and the neighbouring North Gyeongsang province.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: </strong></p>

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<p>Most of the country's infections are linked to the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, a religious sect often condemned as a cult.</p>
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<p>A 61-year-old woman member in Daegu developed symptoms on February 10 and attended at least four services before being diagnosed.</p>

<p>President Moon Jae-in announced a 30-trillion-won ($25-billion) package earlier this week to address the "grave" situation brought on by the outbreak in the world's 12th-largest economy.</p>

<p>Scores of events from K-pop concerts to sports seasons have been cancelled or postponed over the contagion, with school and kindergarten breaks extended by three weeks nationwide.</p>

<p>The government on Thursday lengthened a nationwide daycare centre closure for a further two weeks.</p>


South Korea's total number of novel coronavirus cases -- the largest outside China, where the disease first emerged approached 6,000 on Thursday as authorities announced a ban on face mask exports.

South Korea's total number of novel coronavirus cases -- the largest outside China, where the disease first emerged approached 6,000 on Thursday as authorities announced a ban on face mask exports. Total infections stood at 5,766, the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said, up 145, with 35 deaths. Australia announced Thursday it would impose an entry ban on foreigners who have recently been in South Korea, joining 36 countries and regions that have taken similar measures so far according to the foreign ministry in Seoul. Also read: 290 million students out of school as global virus battle intensifies Prime Minister Chung Sye-kyun said face mask exports would be banned from Friday. Masks have become standard wear throughout South Korea and demand has surged, with long queues forming as authorities struggle to ensure a sufficient supply. "Most people are spending hours queueing," Chung told a meeting in Daegu, the centre of the epidemic in South Korea, where he is leading the government response. Also see: New coronavirus deaths in US as lawmakers reach $8.3 billion funding deal "I feel heavy responsibility for people's suffering from the shortage," he said, adding distribution would prioritise medical and disinfection workers. Manufacturers were last month limited to exporting 10 percent of their production. Nearly 90 percent of South Korea's cases are in Daegu with more than 4,300 cases confirmed there and the neighbouring North Gyeongsang province. Watch: × Most of the country's infections are linked to the Shincheonji Church of Jesus, a religious sect often condemned as a cult. A 61-year-old woman member in Daegu developed symptoms on February 10 and attended at least four services before being diagnosed. President Moon Jae-in announced a 30-trillion-won ($25-billion) package earlier this week to address the "grave" situation brought on by the outbreak in the world's 12th-largest economy. Scores of events from K-pop concerts to sports seasons have been cancelled or postponed over the contagion, with school and kindergarten breaks extended by three weeks nationwide. The government on Thursday lengthened a nationwide daycare centre closure for a further two weeks.

South Korea's total number of coronavirus jumps to over 5,700

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