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#44 - Part 1

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 1

>>23877932 Victoria Police launch manhunt for synagogue firebomber who skipped bail - Victoria Police are searching for Angelo Loras, who failed to appear for sentencing after pleading guilty to firebombing the East Melbourne synagogue on July 4, causing $54,000 in damage while 20 worshippers were inside. Loras, who spent 134 days in solitary confinement on remand, was released on bail Monday after a magistrate described his treatment as “nothing short of disgraceful”. The Iranian-born offender, diagnosed with schizophrenia while in custody, was required to stay at an address provided by the Court Integrated Services Program (CISP), avoid the synagogue area and attend a corrections assessment. He did not appear on Wednesday, prompting the court to issue a warrant. Police said inquiries are underway to locate him.

>>23900198 Hate criminal sentenced to house arrest for anti-Semitic attacks motivated by money, not hate – A Sydney man who carried out anti-Semitic arson and graffiti attacks in the eastern suburbs has been sentenced to 11 months of house arrest after a court found his crimes were financially motivated rather than ideologically driven. Thomas Stojanovski, 21, pleaded guilty to multiple offences linked to the firebombing of cars and vandalism in Woollahra but was found not to hold anti-Semitic beliefs. The court accepted he acted for money to fund drug use and had no prior criminal history. He received an intensive corrections order including community service and a fine. Jewish community leaders criticised the outcome, warning the attacks caused widespread fear and trauma despite the ruling on motivation.

>>23921099 Iran condemns Australia's listing of IRGC as sponsor of terrorism – Iran has condemned Australia’s decision to formally list the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a state sponsor of terrorism, calling the move “offensive” and politically motivated. The designation followed intelligence linking Iran to antisemitic attacks in Australia, including arson attacks on Jewish sites in Melbourne and Sydney. Tehran accused Canberra of acting at Israel’s behest and violating international norms, warning the decision damaged bilateral relations. Australia said the listing was necessary to deter foreign-backed extremism and protect community safety, describing the attacks as deliberate efforts to inflame social division. The move marks the first use of new federal powers enabling the designation of state-linked terrorist entities and follows Iran’s ambassador being expelled from Australia earlier this year.

>>23921109 Jewish groups angered by push to remove religion from terror law definition – Jewish organisations and security experts have criticised a proposal to remove religion as a motivating factor in Australia’s terrorism laws, warning it would weaken counterterrorism efforts and obscure real threats. The push, backed by Muslim advocacy groups and the Australian Human Rights Commission, is being considered as part of a review of terrorism legislation. Critics argue most Australian terror plots since 2014 were religiously motivated, predominantly Islamist, and that removing religious motivation would hinder intelligence assessments and prosecutions. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry, supported by security experts and opposition figures, says the change risks diluting protections against extremist violence. The government says it will consider the review’s recommendations next year.

>>23934664 Government’s Islamophobia envoy backs calls to axe religion from terror definition – Australia’s Special Envoy to Combat Islamophobia, Aftab Malik, has backed calls to remove religion from the legal definition of terrorism, telling Senate estimates he supports redefining terrorism as ideological or political rather than religious. His comments follow submissions from Muslim advocacy groups arguing the current wording unfairly targets Muslim communities. The proposal has drawn strong opposition from Jewish organisations, which warn it could weaken protections against antisemitic violence and limit prosecutions. The Albanese government and ASIO have indicated they do not support changing the definition, citing national security risks. The debate unfolded alongside tensions between government envoys addressing Islamophobia and antisemitism, with senators clashing over Israel, online extremism and community safety.

#44 - Part 2

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 2

>>23939105 Stand with us to fight scourge of hate, say Jewish leaders – Jewish community leaders have urged Australians to stand in solidarity following a surge in antisemitic incidents, marking a year since the arson attack on Melbourne’s Adass Israel synagogue. Speaking at the site, Executive Council of Australian Jewry president Daniel Aghion said Australia had experienced an unprecedented rise in antisemitism, with 1653 incidents recorded in the past year, and called for stronger action from government. He criticised delays in implementing recommendations from the Special Envoy on antisemitism, warning the problem was worsening. International Jewish leaders joined commemorations, expressing solidarity and urging governments to act. The federal government has committed $30 million to rebuild the synagogue, which was destroyed in the 2024 attack.

>>23939113 Adass Israel Synagogue alleged arsonists in court days out from anniversary – Court proceedings against two men accused of firebombing Melbourne’s Adass Israel Synagogue have been delayed until 2026 due to the volume of material still being assessed by investigators. Giovanni Laulu, 21, and Younes Ali Younes, 20, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates’ Court as prosecutors said a “significant” amount of evidence, including AFP-held material, CCTV, phone data and interviews with other persons of interest, had yet to be disclosed. The pair are accused of using petrol to set fire to the Ripponlea synagogue in December 2024, causing more than $20 million in damage. The magistrate ordered outstanding material be provided before March, with further hearings scheduled for April.

>>23978158 Bondi Beach Massacre:Two gunmen open fire at Bondi Chanukkah event, 10 confirmed dead in mass shooting- (Video) Two gunmen opened fire at a Chanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, killing 10 people, including children and a police officer, in what authorities believe was a targeted antisemitic attack. One attacker was shot dead at the scene, while a second was wounded and taken into custody following a prolonged confrontation involving multiple firearms. Police and emergency services rushed to the area shortly before 7pm, establishing exclusion zones and searching for possible explosive devices, including reports of a suspected bomb beneath a nearby pedestrian bridge. Witnesses described scenes of panic as crowds fled, with one bystander tackling a gunman and wrestling away a weapon. NSW Police confirmed counter-terrorism units are leading the investigation, with federal agencies assisting. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns condemned the violence, urging the public to avoid the area and follow official advice. The attack occurred during a public Chanukkah gathering near Bondi Pavilion, sending shockwaves through the Jewish community and the nation, and prompting heightened security measures across Sydney and other major cities.

>>23981330 “ACT OF EVIL”:At least 12 dead in terror attack at Bondi Beach after mass shooting- (Video) At least 12 people were killed and 29 injured when two gunmen opened fire on a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, in what authorities have declared a terrorist attack targeting the Jewish community. The shooting began just after 6.40pm, sending hundreds fleeing as gunfire erupted across the foreshore. One attacker was shot dead at the scene, while a second was critically wounded and taken into custody; police are also investigating potential accomplices and explosive devices found nearby. NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon confirmed counter-terrorism powers were activated, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns described the attack as an act of antisemitic hatred and national trauma. Witnesses described chaos, heroism and civilians shielding children under fire. A bystander disarmed one gunman, likely preventing further deaths. Authorities confirmed the attack was planned, with the Jewish community directly targeted during a religious celebration. Security agencies, including ASIO, are now assessing broader threats as Australia mourns one of its deadliest terror attacks.

#44 - Part 3

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 3

>>23981329 Video: Bondi beach shooting: Israel's president sends condolences to victims in Australia - Israeli President Isaac Herzog denounced the attack, labeling the perpetrators as 'vile terrorists'. An event celebrating the Jewish festival of Hanukkah was taking place on Bondi beach at the time of the shooting on Sunday evening. Herzog has called on the Australian government to fight antisemitism after the beach shooting. - Guardian Australia

>>23981335 Video: October 7 survivor wounded in Bondi Beach terror attack at Hanukkah party – A human rights lawyer who survived the October 7 Hamas attacks was among those injured in a mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, where at least 12 people were killed. Arsen Ostrovsky, head of the Australia/Israel & Jewish Affairs Council Sydney office, said he saw children, elderly people and families shot as gunmen opened fire, describing the scene as “a bloodbath”. He was injured but survived, while others nearby were killed. Witnesses described chaos as people fled, shielded children, and tried to help the wounded. One victim, 87-year-old Alex Kleytman, was killed while standing with his wife. NSW Police declared the attack a terrorist incident, confirming multiple fatalities and injuries. Political leaders condemned the attack as antisemitic terrorism, pledging national solidarity with the Jewish community.

>>23981350 Bondi hero Ahmed ‘in good spirits’ after being shot twice saving lives – (Video) Ahmed el Ahmed, the bystander who tackled and disarmed one of the Bondi Beach gunmen, is recovering in hospital after being shot twice while intervening in the Hanukkah terror attack. The 44-year-old father of two, who migrated from Syria in 2006, acted after seeing gunfire erupt, charging toward the attacker and wrestling away a rifle to stop further killings. Family members said he believed he might die but felt compelled to act, crediting his faith for giving him strength. Witnesses described scenes of chaos as Ahmed placed himself between the gunman and fleeing crowds. He remains hospitalised following surgery and is expected to undergo further treatment. Political leaders, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and NSW Premier Chris Minns, praised his courage, describing his actions as selfless and lifesaving. Community members and national figures have hailed him as a hero whose bravery saved countless lives.

>>23981358 Trump praises Bondi hero as massacre darkens Hanukkah ceremonies in US – (Video) US political and Jewish leaders reacted with shock and grief after the Bondi terror attack that killed multiple people during a Hanukkah gathering, casting a shadow over celebrations across the United States. At a National Menorah lighting in Washington, speakers described the attack as a stark reminder of rising global antisemitism. President Donald Trump praised Ahmed el Ahmed, the bystander who disarmed one of the attackers, calling his actions “very brave” and crediting him with saving lives. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, FBI Director Kash Patel and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed solidarity with Australia, while US intelligence agencies offered assistance to Australian authorities. Jewish leaders said the attack reinforced fears felt by communities worldwide, with Rabbi Levi Shemtov urging resilience and pride in Jewish identity. Politicians across parties condemned the violence, warning of escalating antisemitism and urging stronger moral leadership. The Australian embassy in Washington announced a condolence book for mourners.

>>23981378 ‘You let the disease spread’: Netanyahu accuses Albanese of failing to curb antisemitism – (Video) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of failing to act against rising antisemitism following a deadly terror attack at a Hanukkah celebration in Sydney that killed at least 16 people. Netanyahu said Australia’s recognition of a future Palestinian state had “poured fuel on the fire”, arguing it emboldened antisemitism and warning that inaction allows hatred to spread. Albanese rejected the criticism, calling the attack an act of terrorism and antisemitism and urging national unity. Global leaders, including US President Donald Trump, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with Australia’s Jewish community. Israeli officials urged stronger international action against antisemitism, while Australian authorities continued investigations into the attack, which occurred during Hanukkah celebrations at Bondi Beach, and examined potential extremist links and broader security implications.

#44 - Part 4

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 4

>>23981397 Bondi Massacre: One shooter dead, another under hospital guard as police raid home – (Video) Police say a father and son carried out the Bondi Beach terror attack that killed at least 16 people during a Hanukkah gathering, with one gunman dead and the other hospitalised under guard. NSW Police confirmed the deceased was a licensed firearms holder who owned six weapons, while his 24-year-old son remains in critical condition. Officers raided a Bonnyrigg home linked to the suspects, seizing firearms and detaining multiple people. Investigators say the attackers fired dozens of rounds from a footbridge and threw two unexploded pipe bombs. Authorities have declared the incident a terrorist attack, with counter-terrorism command leading the investigation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the violence as “evil antisemitism” and vowed accountability as security agencies examine extremist links.

>>23981415 Video: Albanese confirms ASIO probed Bondi shooter’s IS links – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed Australia’s domestic intelligence agency ASIO examined one of the Bondi attackers in 2019 after concerns about extremist associations, but assessed at the time that he posed no immediate threat. The attacker, Naveed Akram, and his father Sajid Akram carried out the mass shooting that killed at least 15 people at a Hanukkah gathering. Authorities say the father legally owned six firearms. ASIO’s earlier interest related to Naveed Akram’s links to individuals later convicted of Islamic State activity, though investigators found no evidence then of active radicalisation. Following the attack, the federal government and states agreed to tighten gun laws, review licence durations and accelerate a national firearms register. Police and security agencies are reassessing intelligence-sharing and monitoring processes amid scrutiny over whether warning signs were missed.

>>23981466 Video: More Bondi Beach shooting victims named, including 10yo girl and rabbis – More victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack have been identified, including 10-year-old Matilda, several rabbis, a Holocaust survivor, a former police officer and a French national, as communities mourn those killed during the Hanukkah gathering. Matilda, the youngest victim, died after suffering critical injuries; her family described her as joyful, affectionate and inseparable from her younger sister. Among the dead are Rabbi Eli Schlanger, a senior Chabad leader described as devoted to community service, and Holocaust survivor Alexander Kleytman, who had rebuilt his life in Australia after fleeing Europe. Former NSW police officer and rugby volunteer Peter Meagher was also killed, along with French footballer Dan Elkayam. Other victims included Reuven Morrison and Tibor Weitzen, both active members of Australia’s Jewish community. Tributes highlighted lives defined by service, kindness and faith, as Jewish leaders and families called for unity and compassion in the face of hatred.

>>23981482 Port Arthur-era National Firearms Agreement to be renegotiated after Bondi Beach massacre – Australia’s landmark gun laws are set for overhaul after the Bondi Beach terror attack, in which 16 people were killed, prompting leaders to revisit the post-Port Arthur National Firearms Agreement. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese confirmed all states and territories will renegotiate the framework, including limits on the number and type of firearms, mandatory licence reviews, tighter import controls and possible citizenship requirements for gun ownership. NSW Premier Chris Minns said licences “cannot be in perpetuity”, as police revealed the alleged attacker legally owned six firearms despite earlier security concerns. A National Firearms Register will be fast-tracked, and parliament may be recalled before Christmas. Survivors and advocates, including Port Arthur survivor Walter Mikac, called for decisive reform, warning complacency has returned. The attack has reignited debate over gun access, extremism and public safety.

#44 - Part 5

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 5

>>23981518 COMMENTARY: ‘An unprecedented failure of leadership’: Josh Frydenberg - "On Sunday night I was at my nephew’s bar mitzvah, celebrating with family a young man’s coming of age. It was a joyous occasion until the tragic news started filtering through. It was our worst nightmare. A massacre on Bondi Beach of children, rabbis, Holocaust survivors all of whom who were doing nothing more and nothing less than celebrating the Jewish festival of light, Hanukkah. Australia will never be the same. Make no mistake, this evil and hateful act of violence was not a spontaneous, isolated attack nor was it just an attack on Jewish Australians. It was an attack on all Australians, destroying what was left of our frayed social fabric. As more information comes to hand with every passing hour, one thing we can be sure of is that this act of terrorism was all too predictable. So many of us had warned that this day would come. The ­director-general of our national security and intelligence agency ASIO even rang the alarm bell himself, saying earlier this year that the dangerous rise in anti-Semitism was his “No 1 priority” in terms of threats to life. The question must now be asked: Why didn’t our leaders ­listen? And why didn’t they act? The massacre we have seen at one of our nation’s most iconic landmarks is the culmination of an unprecedented failure of leadership to heed the warning signs that were so obvious to every Australian who opened their eyes. From the disgraceful scenes on the steps of the Opera House just hours after Hamas’s attack on Oct­ober 7, 2023, to the firebombing of synagogues and childcare centres, the doxxing of Jewish artists, harassment of Jewish students and daily violent protests on our streets, the past two years have seen a tsunami of hate that has left the local Jewish community feeling abandoned and alone. Everything must now change. Everything must be on the table. Those who spew hate must no longer be tolerated. The law must be enforced and strengthened where necessary. Gun reform is important but it is not nearly enough. We must cure this cancer of hate which has spread way too fast. We need action, not words. The Special Envoy on Anti-Semitism’s report, which was presented to Anthony Albanese and the Home Affairs Minister in July, more than 150 days ago is a start; it must immediately be acted upon. We simply cannot as a country continue as we have done, otherwise it will be only a matter of time before we are grieving another mass casualty event." - Josh Frydenberg, former federal treasurer - The Australian

>>23986486 Video: Bondi shooter’s terror links revealed as police investigate manifesto – Police say Bondi gunman Naveed Akram had past links to extremist networks and was under scrutiny years before the attack that killed 15 people, as investigators probe a possible manifesto and overseas travel. Authorities confirmed Akram and his father Sajid, who died at the scene, had travelled to the Philippines weeks before the massacre and were linked to individuals associated with Islamic State ideology. Two improvised explosive devices and IS flags were found at the scene. Police say the father legally owned the weapons despite the son being known to counter-terrorism agencies since 2019. Investigators are examining connections to street preaching groups and prior extremist figures, though no charges were laid at the time. Authorities say the attack was ideologically motivated and continue to assess failures in monitoring and firearms licensing.

>>23986491 Video: Booing of Victorian premier lays bare a deep political divide – Tensions between Victoria’s Labor government and the Jewish community were laid bare when Premier Jacinta Allan was booed at a Hanukkah service in Melbourne following the Bondi terror attack. The reaction contrasted sharply with applause for Liberal figures and reflected deep anger over perceived government inaction on antisemitism. Jewish leaders said the moment highlighted a widening political divide over Israel, community safety and responses to extremism. While Allan attended alongside senior ministers, she left early as opposition figures remained to speak with community leaders. Speakers warned that Jewish Australians felt increasingly unsafe and unheard, urging stronger leadership and clearer moral resolve. Community figures stressed that the attack represented not only antisemitic violence but a threat to Australian values, with growing expectations that political leaders act decisively rather than symbolically.

#44 - Part 6

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 6

>>23990903 Video: Furious Frydenberg says Labor ‘abandoned’ Jews, PM must ‘accept responsibility’ for Bondi – Former treasurer Josh Frydenberg has accused Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of failing to confront rising antisemitism, saying the government bears responsibility for the Bondi terror attack that killed 15 people. Speaking at the attack site, Frydenberg said Labor had allowed extremism to grow unchecked and demanded bans on hate preachers, tougher immigration and security laws, full implementation of antisemitism inquiries, and a royal commission. He criticised the government’s focus on gun reform, arguing ideology, not firearms, drove the attack. Frydenberg said failures since October 7, 2023 had emboldened extremists and left Jewish Australians unsafe. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the government would consider further measures, including a possible inquiry, while stressing existing actions against antisemitism.

>>23990910 ‘Allowed Australia to be radicalised on his watch’: Frydenberg unleashes on PM – (Video) Former treasurer Josh Frydenberg accused Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of failing to confront rising antisemitism, saying government inaction enabled the Bondi terror attack that killed 15 people. Speaking at Bondi, Frydenberg demanded a royal commission, bans on extremist preachers, tighter immigration controls, tougher action against protest groups and full implementation of antisemitism recommendations. He said the government had “abandoned” Jewish Australians and must accept responsibility. Opposition leader Sussan Ley echoed the criticism, while Labor ministers defended their response, saying further measures were being considered. Albanese acknowledged more needed to be done and pledged stronger action against extremism. The exchange highlighted deep political divisions as national grief and anger intensified following the attack.

>>23986492 Video: Minister Tony Burke heckled with ‘blood on your hands’ at Bondi memorial – Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke was heckled by members of the public while paying his respects at the Bondi Beach memorial for victims of the recent terrorist attack, with onlookers shouting accusations including “blood on your hands”. The confrontation occurred late Monday evening as Burke attended the site alongside Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett. Fifteen people, including a 10-year-old girl, were killed in the attack. Burke later said emotions were raw and grief was driving anger. The incident followed mounting criticism from sections of the Jewish community and political figures who argue the government failed to act on rising antisemitism. Tensions also flared when a pro-Palestinian attendee was escorted away from the memorial by police after confronting mourners, underscoring the charged atmosphere surrounding the vigil.

>>23990943 Video: Alleged Bondi massacre gunman Naveed Akram hit with 59 charges – Naveed Akram, 24, has been charged with 59 offences including committing a terrorist act, 15 counts of murder and 40 counts of causing grievous bodily harm, following the Bondi Beach mass shooting that killed 15 people during a Chanukah event. Police allege Akram and his father, Sajid Akram, opened fire on a large crowd before Sajid was shot dead by officers. Akram, who was critically injured, was charged from his hospital bed after waking from a coma and did not apply for bail. Authorities say the attack was motivated by extremist ideology and involved firearms and explosive devices. Forty-one people were injured, including four children and two police officers. Thirteen victims have been formally identified as investigations continue into planning, radicalisation and possible associates.

>>23990948 Tulsi Gabbard Tweet: The tragic Islamist terror attack against those at a Hanukkah celebration in Australia sadly should not come as a surprise to anyone. This is the direct result of the massive influx of Islamists to Australia. Their goal is not only the Islamization of Australia but the entire world—including the United States. Islamists and Islamism is the greatest threat to the freedom, security, and prosperity of the United States and the entire world. It is probably too late for Europe - and maybe Australia. It is not too late for the United States of America. But it soon will be. Thankfully, President Trump has prioritized securing our borders and deporting known and suspected terrorists, and stopping mass, unvetted migration that puts Americans at risk.

#44 - Part 7

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 7

>>23990927 OPINION: ‘You have failed us’: Josh Frydenberg’s speech at Bondi memorial - After laying flowers at the Bondi Pavilion memorial for Sunday’s shooting, former treasurer Josh Frydenberg, the first Jewish person to hold the position, gave an impassioned speech calling on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to act on antisemitism. Below is a partial transcript of what Frydenberg said:

"Thank you, everyone, for being here. I’m here to pay my respects to the souls of 15 innocent people, who have lost their life in the deadliest terrorist attack in Australia’s history. In the greatest loss of Jewish life since October 7 anywhere around the world outside the state of Israel. Rabbis, Holocaust survivors and the beautiful 10-year-old Matilda. Her parents said they gave her that name because it was the most Australian name they knew. What a tragedy. This massacre at Bondi is the greatest stain on this nation. Has brought the greatest shame to our nation. I’m here to mourn, but I am also here to warn. Unless our governments, federal and state, take urgent, unprecedented and strong action, as night follows day we will be back grieving the loss of innocent life in another terrorist attack in our country."

"This was all too predictable. Ever since those hours after Hamas’ horrific attack on October 7, we saw the heinous scenes on the steps of another national icon, the Sydney Opera House, with people celebrating that death and destruction. Who was apprehended that day? None of those who hate Australia and hate Jewish people, but a simple Jewish man holding in solidarity the Israeli flag. And since that day, we have seen the doxxing of Jewish creatives, the cancelling of Jewish artists, the boycotting of Jewish businesses, the graffiti-ing of our schools, the harassment, the intimidation of Jewish students and staff on our university campuses and of course the firebombing of our synagogues and day care centres and daily, daily protests of hate in this, the lucky country, which is lucky no more."

"Prime Minister, you have supported a royal commission into our banks. You have supported a royal commission into our welfare system. You have supported a royal commission into aged care, and now the deadliest terrorist attack in Australia’s history has occurred on your watch. There is no ifs, there is no buts, there must be a royal commission called immediately. We don’t need pious words of comfort, we need answers. How did people come into this country with these views that are so antithetical to our democratic ideals? How did these people in Australia go unchecked to the Philippines for terrorist training? How did these people acquire licensed firearms that they used on innocent civilians? How were these people radicalised in Islamic ideology? And how with some 1000 people here in a heightened threat environment, did we just have three police, ill-equipped to provide the first and fundamental duty of both the state and the federal government to protect the safety of their citizens?"

"And we need answers, we need solutions, we need action. And Prime Minister, I heard you say yesterday that you are ready for the fight on guns. Well, let me tell you, guns may have stolen the life of 15 innocent civilians, but it was radical Islamist ideology that pulled the trigger. And if you, Prime Minister, can’t say those words, Islamist ideology, if you can’t speak them, you can’t solve them. So, Prime Minister, you have failed us. Your government has failed us. You sit in a chair. It is time you earned that title. If you don’t want to do the job, give it to somebody who will." - Josh Frydenberg - The Age

#44 - Part 8

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 8

>>23990940 COMMENTARY: Josh Frydenberg shows the nation how to defeat anti-Semitism in one of the great Australian speeches - "Josh Frydenberg’s Bondi Beach speech is one of the greatest in the nation’s history and puts every politician and government on ­notice. Through his pain and grief, Frydenberg spoke more clearly, more directly, more factually and more honestly than any Australian politician in attacking the failure of Anthony Albanese’s government to protect citizens from evil Islamic radicalism, extremism, anti-Semitism and terrorism. The impromptu address was delivered after the former Liberal treasurer hugged mourners and wiped away tears at the site of the ISIS-inspired terror attack on Sunday night, where Islamic radicals shot, murdered and critically injured innocent Jewish-Australians and beachgoers celebrating the Chanukah by the Sea event. Frydenberg, Australia’s most senior ranking Jewish federal minister since Federation, is a proud Jew whose own family and friends have lived through the vile rise of anti-Semitism and the targeting of their synagogues, schools, businesses and homes. The former Liberal MP, who is still viewed by many conservatives as the party’s saviour if he returns to politics, articulated what must be done to bring the country together, eradicate Islamic extremists and terrorists, teach stronger Australian values, end discrimin­ation and do what it takes to keep everyone safe. During his first iteration in politics, Frydenberg didn’t always speak his mind. On Wednesday, the 54-year-old showed what he is capable of when he speaks from the heart. Frydenberg didn’t just deliver a rant. He provided Albanese with a long list of specific actions that must be adopted to end the equivocation, weasel words, mealy-mouthed, weak rhetoric that has allowed extremists to flourish. The former treasurer, who is actively considering returning to politics ahead of the 2028 election and beating Climate 200-backed Teal independent Monique Ryan in Kooyong, on Wednesday delivered messages that resonate not just for his Jewish community but for all Australians. Albanese must urgently sit down with Frydenberg and all Jewish leaders - and do what they are telling him to do. The country is screaming out for leadership and Frydenberg has shown the way." - Geoff Chambers - The Australian

>>23996350 Video: PM announces five-point reform plan to combat hate speech, radicalisation – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has unveiled a five-point reform agenda to combat antisemitism and violent extremism following the Bondi terror attack, conceding the government could have acted sooner. The plan includes tougher hate-speech offences, new powers to deny or cancel visas, stronger penalties for online threats, and reforms to prevent extremist preaching. A national education taskforce will also be established to address antisemitism in schools. Albanese said parliament may be recalled to pass urgent legislation, with drafting underway over Christmas. The government will respond to most recommendations from its antisemitism envoy but is still considering limits on funding for institutions linked to hate speech. Opposition leader Sussan Ley criticised the response as overdue, while Jewish leaders welcomed action but said it came too late.

>>23996366 Video: AFP targets hate preachers as Albanese announces crackdown – The Australian Federal Police has begun investigating hate preachers following the Bondi terror attack, as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese unveiled a new crackdown on extremist rhetoric and antisemitism. The package includes tougher hate-speech offences, higher penalties for incitement to violence, and powers to list organisations whose leaders promote racial hatred. AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett said individuals spreading hate were already under active investigation. One alleged Bondi attacker had links to a Sydney-based religious group previously found by the Federal Court to have promoted antisemitic material. Albanese rejected claims intelligence agencies were under-resourced, saying ASIO and the AFP had received record funding. The reforms also allow visa cancellations for individuals promoting hatred. Critics across politics have called for stronger action, while the government says the measures aim to prevent radicalisation without undermining lawful expression.

#44 - Part 9

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 9

>>23996376 ‘If not me, who?’ Frydenberg lashes ABC host’s ‘deeply offensive’ political question – (Video) Former treasurer Josh Frydenberg has condemned ABC journalist Sarah Ferguson for questioning whether his speech condemning the government over the Bondi massacre was politically motivated, calling the suggestion “deeply offensive”. Speaking after his appearance on 7.30, Frydenberg said Jewish Australians were living under armed protection and that silence was no longer an option. He rejected claims he was positioning for a political return, saying the issue was national safety, not ambition. Frydenberg renewed calls for a royal commission into antisemitism, arguing government inaction had allowed hatred to flourish. Labor ministers rejected the proposal, saying a commission would delay urgent action. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke and Treasurer Jim Chalmers said agencies must focus on immediate security. Frydenberg accused the government of weakness, while Labor insisted reforms were already underway.

>>23996403 Video: Trump holds up Bondi massacre as warning: ‘we’re not going to let that happen’ – US President Donald Trump has cited the Bondi Beach mass shooting as a warning of rising global antisemitism, pledging that similar violence would not be allowed in the United States. Speaking at a White House Hanukkah event, Trump described the attack as a “horrific and antisemitic terrorist act” and said it demonstrated the dangers of failing to confront radical extremism. He contrasted his approach with that of the Albanese government, pointing to stronger US measures against hate speech, terrorism and antisemitism, including new executive powers and enforcement actions. Trump said his administration would mobilise federal agencies to protect Jewish communities and counter extremist ideology. The comments come amid mounting international pressure on Australia to strengthen its response to antisemitism following the Bondi attack.

>>23996417 Pro-Palestine activists lash proposed NSW protest crackdown – Pro-Palestine groups including the Palestinian Action Group (PAG) have condemned the NSW government’s proposed restrictions on protests following the Bondi terror attack, warning they threaten democratic rights. Premier Chris Minns said police may be empowered to refuse protest applications during a terrorism designation, effectively halting large demonstrations. PAG, led by organiser Josh Lees, said the move would “hand the state sweeping powers” and silence dissent, arguing fear was being exploited to curb civil liberties. The group accused the government of using the attack to justify suppressing pro-Palestinian activism. Minns said the aim was to prevent unrest and protect public safety, while opposition figures and Jewish leaders backed tighter controls. Critics warned the measures risk deepening division rather than restoring cohesion.

>>24003735 ‘Because we’re Muslims’: Men released after dramatic arrest by armed police – (Video) Seven men detained in a dramatic counter-terrorism operation in Sydney have been released without charge, saying they were targeted because they are Muslim. The men, aged 19–24, were stopped by heavily armed police in Liverpool after intelligence suggested a potential threat linked to extremist ideology. Police said they acted to prevent a possible attack and detained the group “out of an abundance of caution”, but later released them pending further investigation. The men denied any extremist intent, saying they were visiting Sydney for a holiday and had planned to go to the beach. One said police claims were “bullshit” and described the operation as racist. NSW Police said the investigation remains ongoing and the men may continue to be monitored, but there is no immediate risk to the public.

>>24005868 Government announces largest gun buyback scheme since Port Arthur – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has unveiled Australia’s largest gun buyback since 1996, pledging to reduce firearm numbers following the Bondi terror attack in which 15 people were killed. The scheme would cap how many guns an individual can own, with excess firearms surrendered for compensation funded jointly by federal and state governments. Albanese said hundreds of thousands of weapons could be removed, arguing the current licensing system failed after the Bondi shooter legally owned six guns. The Coalition has demanded further detail, with Nationals leader David Littleproud calling the plan a “smokescreen” and Liberals pressing for stronger action against extremism instead. States will negotiate caps, while NSW plans its own limits. The buyback could cost up to $1 billion, with legislation potentially recalled early next year.

#44 - Part 10

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 10

>>24005908 ‘Damn it, wake up!’: Netanyahu says Albanese ignored warnings before Bondi massacre – (Video) Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of ignoring repeated warnings about rising antisemitism, saying the Bondi Beach terror attack could have been prevented. In an interview with Sky News, Netanyahu said he had warned Albanese months earlier that violence against Jews was escalating and urged stronger security measures. He argued that Jewish communities should be allowed armed protection and claimed intelligence failures allowed attackers to exploit vulnerabilities. Netanyahu said the recognition of a Palestinian state and tolerance of pro-Palestinian protests had emboldened extremists, insisting Australia must act decisively against radicalisation, hate speech and extremist networks. He called for tighter immigration scrutiny, stronger intelligence coordination and decisive action against what he described as “radical Islamist cells,” warning that inaction would invite further attacks.

>>24005941 NSW to effectively ban protests for up to three months as premier links Gaza rallies to Bondi terror attack – NSW Premier Chris Minns has announced plans to grant police sweeping powers to ban public protests for up to three months following the Bondi terror attack, arguing large demonstrations risk further violence. Under proposed laws, police would be able to block protests across designated areas during a terrorism declaration, without court oversight. Minns said the measures were necessary to prevent unrest and cited recent pro-Palestine rallies as contributing to heightened tensions. The move has drawn strong criticism from civil liberties groups, pro-Palestine organisers and some Jewish organisations, who argue the reforms undermine democratic rights and wrongly conflate protest with terrorism. The legislation would allow police to issue movement directions and restrict assemblies, excluding industrial action, and could be introduced within days as part of broader counter-terror reforms.

>>24005996 Melbourne activists change plans after being warned not to use Bondi grief for protests – Activist groups in Melbourne have altered or postponed planned rallies following warnings from state leaders not to exploit the Bondi terror attack for political protest. Anti-Zionism Australia cancelled a planned CBD gathering after criticism from Jewish leaders and government figures, instead announcing a smaller “speak-out” at Parliament House opposing the antisemitism envoy’s report. Premier Jacinta Allan warned against protests that could inflame tensions, saying those seeking to “whip up hate” would face police action. Police confirmed a visible presence at any weekend events. Pro-Israel and anti-immigration groups also signalled separate rallies. Jewish leaders condemned attempts to politicise the tragedy, while protest organisers argued their actions were misrepresented. The episode underscores growing tension between public mourning, protest rights and community safety.

>>24006040 ‘Globalise the intifada’ banned after Bondi shooting – NSW will outlaw chants such as “globalise the intifada” and expand police powers to remove face coverings and restrict protests following the Bondi terror attack that killed 15 people. Premier Chris Minns said the phrase now constituted hate speech and risked inciting violence, with offenders facing fines or jail under proposed laws that also criminalise displaying terrorist symbols. The reforms would allow police to suspend protest approvals after a terrorism declaration and broaden stop-and-search powers. Civil liberties groups warned the measures threaten democratic rights, while Jewish organisations welcomed stronger protections. Minns said the laws were necessary to prevent further violence and restore community safety. The changes come amid heightened security concerns, mourning across Sydney, and ongoing debate over balancing free expression with public safety.

#44 - Part 11

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 11

>>24006582 France, Australia, and Germany Have all Canceled New Years Celebrations - We All Know Why, But They’re Not Brave Enough to Tell Us –

"France, Australia and Germany have canceled New Year’s celebrations because of the threat of radical Islam," writes Jim Hoft, citing Newsmax host Rob Schmitt, who claims governments can no longer protect public gatherings from Islamist violence. Schmitt says France has “let in so many Middle Eastern and North African migrants” that mass events are now unsafe, warning that Europe is “committing suicide.” He points to attacks on Christmas markets, claiming “terrorists have struck seven European Christmas markets since 2014,” and argues that migrants are exploiting Western tolerance. He alleges similar dangers in Australia after the Bondi attack, saying Australians feel unsafe as migration increases. Schmitt argues Western leaders respond by restricting citizens rather than confronting extremism, claiming governments “light a candle and move on” instead of addressing what he calls an ideological threat rooted in radical Islam.

- Jim Hoft, The Gateway Pundit

>>24009646 Video: Anti-immigration protesters defy PM to rally in Sydney and Melbourne – Anti-immigration demonstrators gathered in Sydney and Melbourne despite government pleas not to hold rallies following the Bondi massacre, with organisers claiming solidarity with Jewish Australians while critics labelled the events divisive. About 500 people assembled in Sydney and roughly 100 in Melbourne, where speakers criticised Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and called for tougher action on immigration and security. Former deputy prime minister Barnaby Joyce addressed the Sydney crowd, rejecting claims the event was a protest and accusing the government of weakness. In Melbourne, organisers linked to the Put Australia First movement promoted nationalist rhetoric, while tensions flared when a journalist was shoved. Jewish groups criticised the timing, noting the rallies coincided with the National Day of Reflection. Police monitored the gatherings amid concerns over escalation.

>>24009663 ‘Drowned out by boos’: PM’s offer to speak at Bondi vigil not accepted – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was invited to attend, but not speak at, a vigil for victims of the Bondi massacre, with organisers saying he would have been “drowned out by boos” amid anger from parts of the Jewish community. A senior organiser said Albanese was invited only “out of respect for the office”, as frustration grew over his refusal to call a commonwealth royal commission into the attack. Instead, Albanese announced an internal review led by former diplomat Dennis Richardson, a move criticised by opposition figures including Josh Frydenberg, Scott Morrison and Andrew Bragg as inadequate. Independent MP Allegra Spender also backed a royal commission. NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed a state inquiry would proceed but deferred on federal action. Albanese said he respected organisers’ wishes and would attend quietly as tensions over leadership and accountability intensified.

>>24009669 Bondi Beach terror attack: Australia pauses to remember 15 lives lost in horror shooting – (Video) Australians marked a national day of reflection one week after the Bondi terror attack, with thousands gathering across the country to honour the 15 victims. Vigils were held at Bondi Beach, Federation Square and other sites, coinciding with the final night of Hanukkah. Mourners laid flowers, observed moments of silence and reaffirmed resilience in the face of violence. At Bondi, residents said reclaiming public space was an act of defiance against fear. Sporting events paused for tributes, flags flew at half-mast and a banner reading “From Aus for our Jewish community” flew overhead. Police maintained a visible presence as communities gathered peacefully. Tributes included calls to rename a playground after 10-year-old victim Matilda Britvan, with organisers emphasising unity, remembrance and solidarity.

>>24009684 Albanese booed at Bondi massacre vigil – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was booed at the ‘Light over darkness’ vigil for the victims of the Bondi massacre. - Sky News Australia

#44 - Part 12

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 12

>>24013821 Albanese apologises to Jewish community after Bondi vigil booing – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese apologised to Australia’s Jewish community after being booed at a Bondi vigil marking the massacre that killed 15 people, saying he felt “the weight of responsibility” and understood the anger directed at him. Speaking after a cabinet meeting, he said the vigil symbolised unity and “light over darkness”, acknowledging that emotions were raw and that some of the grief had been directed toward his government. Albanese said he was sorry for what the Jewish community and the nation had endured and pledged continued efforts to protect Jewish Australians. He urged unity against extremism and confirmed cabinet discussions on proposed hate-speech and security laws, including measures targeting hate preachers, extremist organisations and visa cancellations. Opposition leaders criticised the response as inadequate, while the government insisted reforms must be carefully drafted before parliamentary action.

>>24013837 How the Bondi Beach massacre unfolded: police facts released – (Video) Police allege Naveed Akram and his father Sajid planned the Bondi Beach terror attack for months, conducting reconnaissance, weapons training and filming propaganda aligned with Islamic State before killing 15 people. A 22-page police fact sheet says the pair rented an Airbnb, trained with firearms, constructed pipe bombs and filmed videos justifying the attack. CCTV allegedly shows them transporting weapons, displaying ISIS flags and throwing improvised explosive devices at crowds during a Jewish community event before opening fire. Both men were shot by police; Sajid died at the scene while Naveed survived and now faces terrorism and murder charges. Police allege the attack was ideologically motivated, carefully planned and intended to cause mass casualties, with evidence including weapons, explosives, surveillance footage and extremist recordings recovered from the scene.

>>24018706 Video: Canterbury Bankstown council seeks to shut Al Madina Dawah Centre; Wissam Haddad ‘never had approval’ to operate as prayer hall – Canterbury Bankstown Council has ordered the closure of the Al Madina Dawah Centre, linked to alleged Bondi attacker Naveed Akram, after finding it never had approval to operate as a prayer hall. The centre, long associated with extremist preacher Wissam Haddad, was approved only as a medical facility, with council citing recent surveillance showing unlawful religious use. Haddad, previously found to have breached racial hatred laws, has denied operational control, though court documents list him as director. NSW Premier Chris Minns said the closure sends a message that hate will not be tolerated. The council said enforcement will continue, warning the site cannot reopen under another name or guise.

>>24018718 Video: Activist groups flag constitutional challenge to proposed NSW protest restrictions – Activist groups including Palestine Action Group, Jews Against the Occupation and the Blak Caucus have flagged a constitutional challenge to NSW legislation that would restrict protests for up to 90 days after a declared terrorism incident. The Terrorism and Other Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, introduced after the Bondi attack, would allow police to block public assemblies during designated periods. Premier Chris Minns said the measures were “extraordinary” but necessary and constitutionally sound. Critics argue the laws conflate protest with terrorism and threaten democratic freedoms, particularly ahead of events such as Australia Day rallies. The bill has passed the lower house and faces opposition from the Greens, Nationals and Shooters Party, with a legal challenge expected in the NSW Supreme Court.

>>24018738 Video: Jacinta Allan promises new protest laws following Bondi’s terrorist attack – Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has announced new protest restrictions allowing police to block or move on demonstrations following designated terror attacks, mirroring proposals in NSW after the Bondi Beach massacre that killed 15 people. Under the plan, Victoria Police would gain powers to restrict protests for a defined period after an attack, with the solicitor-general to determine scope and duration. Allan said the reforms aim to stop extremists exploiting tragedies, stressing “no one should use a terrorist event as an opportunity to protest”. The government will also review gun laws, implement recommendations from the federal antisemitism envoy, and fast-track civil anti-vilification reforms. Critics warn the measures risk curbing free speech, while the Coalition backs the changes and urges swift parliamentary action.

#44 - Part 13

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 13

>>24018750 ‘I haven’t seen Penny Wong shed a single tear’: Ley takes fierce personal swipe – (Video) Opposition Leader Sussan Ley intensified criticism of Foreign Minister Penny Wong, accusing her of failing to show empathy after the Bondi terror attack and saying she had not attended vigils or funerals for the 15 victims. Ley said Wong had not “shed a single tear” and argued senior ministers should spend time listening to the grieving community. Wong rejected the criticism, saying she had consistently called for de-escalation and unity, and had met victims’ families privately. The exchange deepened political tensions as Labor defended its response, with Finance Minister Katy Gallagher accusing the opposition of exploiting the tragedy. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese acknowledged community anger, apologised for the hurt felt by Jewish Australians and urged unity while promising further action against antisemitism.

>>24018778 Video: Specialist officers carrying semiautomatic firearms to patrol MCG during Boxing Day Test – Specialist Victoria Police officers armed with semi-automatic rifles will patrol the MCG during the Boxing Day Test as part of heightened security following the Bondi terror attack that killed 15 people. The Critical Incident Response Team will be deployed across the precinct for all five days, alongside more than 120 additional officers, mounted units and public order police. Police say the move is a precautionary response to the current threat environment, not intelligence of a specific threat. Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said the visible presence is intended to reassure the public and deter violence, stressing it is “about safety, not alarm”. Extra patrols will also operate at nearby transport hubs, including Richmond and Jolimont stations.

>>24022907 Video: PM announces special honours list for Bondi heroes, Israeli president to visit Australia – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has invited Israeli President Isaac Herzog to visit Australia following the Bondi terror attack that killed 15 people, while announcing a special honours list to recognise acts of bravery during the shooting. The Governor-General will oversee a nomination process, similar to those used after the Bali bombings, with awards to be announced next year. Albanese said the attack revealed both “the worst of humanity” and “extraordinary courage”, and confirmed discussions with NSW Premier Chris Minns about recognising police actions. Herzog expressed solidarity with Australian Jews and urged strong action against extremism. Albanese said he had not spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu since the attack, rejecting politicisation of the tragedy. The government is also preparing new hate-speech and gun-law reforms.

>>24026615 ‘This Christmas is a different one’: PM announces Bondi bravery honours – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a special national honours process to recognise civilians and first responders who acted with courage during the Bondi Beach terror attack that killed 15 people. Speaking on Christmas Day after visiting a charity lunch in Sydney, Albanese said the awards would recognise those who “ran toward danger”, including Ahmed al Ahmed, who disarmed one of the attackers before being wounded. He said the tragedy revealed both “the worst of humanity” and “extraordinary compassion”. The honours will follow existing Australian awards processes, with nominations to open in coming months. Albanese also confirmed $10 million in support for community services and reaffirmed new gun-law reforms and anti-extremism measures. NSW Premier Chris Minns echoed calls for unity, urging Australians to support Jewish communities during a period of grief.

>>24030569 Video: Rabbi’s family evacuated after car firebombed on Christmas morning – A rabbi’s family was forced to flee their St Kilda East home after their car was firebombed in the early hours of Christmas Day, in what police are treating as an antisemitic attack. The silver sedan was torched about 2.50am outside the home, near a Jewish school, prompting the evacuation of the family, including children. No one was injured, but shattered glass and fire damage were left behind. Community leaders said the attack deepened fear following the Bondi terror killings days earlier. Rabbi Effy Block said Jews no longer felt safe “walking the street”, while others described the incident as terrorism. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan condemned the attack and said police were treating it seriously. Investigators have identified a person of interest, as Jewish leaders warned antisemitism is escalating and demanded urgent action to protect the community.

#44 - Part 14

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 14

>>24030641 If you care about us, you must act now: Rabbis call for royal commission – (Video) Australia’s leading rabbis have urged Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to establish a federal royal commission into antisemitism, warning Jewish communities feel unsafe and abandoned after the Bondi terror attack. In a Christmas Day letter, the Rabbinical Association of Australasia said current government responses lacked independence and public confidence, and accused authorities of allowing hatred to spread “like a cancer”. The rabbis called for bans on slogans such as “globalise the intifada” and criticised ongoing pro-Palestinian rallies, saying Jewish Australians were being told to stay home “for their own safety”. They said fear had driven families from public life and schools, and that silence from leadership would amount to moral failure. The letter urged decisive national action, warning antisemitism now crosses borders and requires a federal response.

>>24034825 ‘Detrimental to Islam’: Brisbane Imam urges Muslims to ‘eradicate’ extremism in powerful sermon – (Video) A Brisbane Imam has urged Muslims to confront and reject extremism following the Bondi Beach terror attack that killed 15 people, saying violent ideology must be challenged from within the community. Speaking at Holland Park Mosque, Imam Uzair Akbar described the attackers as “monsters” whose actions harmed Islam and urged worshippers to identify and confront radical views before they escalate. He said silence enables extremism to grow and warned that Australian society would not tolerate further violence. Akbar praised Australians for resisting division after the attack and stressed the importance of Muslim leadership in condemning violence. Authorities say the attackers, father and son Sajid and Naveed Akram, had planned the attack for months. The Imam said early intervention, accountability and community responsibility were essential to prevent further radicalisation.

>>24038407 Video: Sydney revellers to see police with long-arm guns on New Year’s Eve – NSW Police will deploy officers carrying long-arm firearms across Sydney on New Year’s Eve as part of heightened security following the Bondi terror attack that killed 15 people. Premier Chris Minns said the visible show of force was necessary to reassure the public and deter further violence, urging residents to “thumb your nose at terrorists” by continuing normal celebrations. He acknowledged the measures were unprecedented but said community safety was the priority. Police will patrol major sites including Bondi, amid intelligence warnings about elevated risks during the Hanukkah period. Internal briefings cited concerns over lone-actor Islamist extremism and antisemitic threats. Minns confirmed the state is considering deeper security reforms, including expanded powers and armed protection for vulnerable communities, under new protest-restriction laws activated after the attack.

>>24042336 Bondi terror attack: Anthony Albanese rejects families’ pleas for royal commission – (Vieo) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has again refused calls from victims’ families and the opposition for a federal royal commission into the Bondi terror attack, instead backing a government-led review headed by former intelligence chief Dennis Richardson. Albanese said the review would assess intelligence failures, agency coordination and legislative gaps, arguing a royal commission would risk amplifying extremist voices and undermining social cohesion. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley accused him of “thumbing his nose” at grieving families and shielding Labor from scrutiny, saying victims deserved a full, independent inquiry. The review will examine intelligence sharing, agency performance and potential reforms, reporting by April. Albanese insisted the process would deliver faster, more practical outcomes, while critics warned it lacked independence and transparency and failed to meet community expectations for accountability after the attack.

#44 - Part 15

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 15

>>24042392 Video: Bondi Beach massacre victims’ families and Jewish leaders condemn Albanese over royal commission refusal – Families of victims and senior Jewish leaders have condemned Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for rejecting calls for a federal royal commission into the Bondi terror attack, accusing the government of dismissing community trauma. Relatives of victims, including the grandson of Tibor Weitzen, said the proposed internal review lacks independence and fails to address the scale of antisemitism behind the attack. Jewish leaders warned that without a full inquiry, Australia risks repeating the same failures, arguing that confronting extremist ideology is essential to prevention. Albanese and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke maintain a royal commission would amplify extremist voices and harm social cohesion, defending a review led by former intelligence chief Dennis Richardson. Critics say the government is prioritising political control over accountability, while families insist only a royal commission can deliver truth, transparency and justice.

>>24042410 ‘My soul asked me to do that’: Bondi hero breaks silence on tackling gunman - (Video) Ahmed al Ahmed has spoken publicly for the first time about tackling gunman Sajid Akram during the Bondi Beach terror attack, saying instinct and instinct alone drove his actions. The 44-year-old shop owner intervened as Akram fired on Jewish families celebrating Hanukkah, disarming him and preventing further deaths. Al Ahmed, who suffered gunshot wounds to his arm, said he acted without hesitation to stop the killing and protect others. Footage of the confrontation circulated globally, prompting widespread praise and recognition, including from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and international leaders. A Syrian-born Australian, al Ahmed had been nearby when the attack began and acted despite knowing another attacker was present. A fundraising campaign supporting his recovery has raised millions, with his actions widely credited with saving lives during the massacre.

>>24042433 ‘I know I saved lives but I feel sorry for the lost’: Bondi Beach massacre hero Ahmed al-Ahmed gives first interview - (Video) Ahmed al-Ahmed has described how instinct drove him to confront gunman Sajid Akram during the Bondi Beach terror attack, saying his sole focus was stopping the killing. The Sydney shop owner tackled Akram during the Hanukkah gathering, disarming him before being shot multiple times by Akram’s son, Naveed. Fifteen people were killed and dozens wounded in the attack. Al-Ahmed said he acted without fear, driven by an urgent need to protect others. He has since undergone surgery and is recovering from his injuries. Hailed internationally for his courage, he has received widespread public support and donations. Despite this, he said his thoughts remain with the victims and their families, stressing that saving lives cannot ease the pain of those lost.

>>24046402 Video: Bondi Beach gunmen had no Philippines terror training, federal police find - Australian Federal Police say Bondi attackers Sajid and Naveed Akram received no terrorist training in the Philippines and acted alone, despite travelling there for nearly a month before the massacre. Commissioner Krissy Barrett said Philippine authorities and AFP intelligence found no evidence the pair trained or received operational direction overseas, though their travel raised concern. She confirmed they had filmed firearms training in NSW before the attack. The gunmen, inspired by Islamic State propaganda, killed 15 people at a Hanukkah gathering on December 14. ISIS later praised the attack but did not claim responsibility. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said an intelligence review would assess whether warning signs were missed. Authorities said the men were not part of a broader terror cell.

#44 - Part 16

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 16

>>24046410 ‘Line by line’: AFP’s ‘flying squad of hate disruptors’ combing sermons for incitement - (Video) Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett said the Bondi attackers acted alone and were not part of a broader terror network, confirming they received no training while in the Philippines despite travelling there weeks before the attack. Authorities said the men rarely left their hotel and returned to Australia shortly before killing 15 people at a Hanukkah event. Barrett said AFP investigators are now scrutinising sermons and online material “line by line” through specialist teams targeting radicalisation and hate-driven violence. She warned extremists exploit religious narratives to incite harm. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese backed expanded enforcement powers and rejected calls for a royal commission, saying expert advice supported the government’s approach. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley criticised the stance, arguing victims’ families deserved fuller accountability.

>>24051385 Video: Chris Minns won’t push Anthony Albanese for anti-Semitism royal commission — NSW Premier Chris Minns has ruled out lobbying the Prime Minister for a federal royal commission into antisemitism, saying he will focus on the state-led inquiry following the Bondi terror attack. Minns said he would not “yell from the sidelines” after Anthony Albanese rejected calls for a Commonwealth probe, instead committing to a national security review. While backing bipartisan cooperation, Minns confirmed NSW would proceed with its own royal commission and implement new counterterrorism laws, including protest restrictions and gun reforms. He defended the government’s approach despite pressure from the opposition and Jewish leaders. Minns also warned Labor must expel members found guilty of racist conduct and said heavily armed police on New Year’s Eve should reassure, not alarm, the public amid heightened security concerns.

>>24051439 Video: Sydney New Year’s Eve fireworks draw huge crowds after Bondi Beach attack - Thousands gathered across Sydney to welcome 2026 as New Year’s Eve celebrations went ahead under heightened security following the Bondi Beach terror attack that killed 15 people. Crowds filled Circular Quay, Darling Harbour and the Royal Botanic Garden, with police, mounted units and concrete barriers deployed to reassure revellers. NSW Premier Chris Minns urged people to “thumb your nose” at terrorism by returning to public spaces. Many attendees described a mix of grief and resilience, saying the community was determined to come together despite ongoing pain. Bondi locals said the attack remained raw but had strengthened community bonds. Similar scenes unfolded in Melbourne, where large crowds gathered amid visible security. Authorities said the strong police presence aimed to ensure safety while allowing Australians to mark the new year together.

>>24055882 Video: Albanese says security agency chiefs were the experts who advised against a royal commission – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said the heads of Australia’s national security agencies supported his decision not to establish a federal royal commission into antisemitism and the Bondi attack, insisting the government relied on “actual experts”. He said advice came from “the heads of all of the authorities”, including former ASIO director-general Dennis Richardson, who is leading a rapid review into intelligence failures. Albanese and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke argue a royal commission would “showcase hate speech and antisemitism” and be “too divisive and dangerous for national unity”. The stance has drawn criticism from victims’ families, Jewish community leaders and legal figures, while human rights commissioner Lorraine Finlay said existing reviews are “insufficient” to confront the deeper causes of the violence.

>>24060108 Video: Australia’s biggest industry groups demand an antisemitism royal commission – Australia’s largest business and industry groups have backed calls for a federal royal commission into antisemitism following the Bondi terror attack, increasing pressure on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The Business Council of Australia said a royal commission was essential for “safe and cohesive workplaces” and would signal Australia’s commitment to tackling antisemitism. More than 100 business leaders and public figures signed an open letter describing the issue as a “national crisis” requiring a “national response”. Albanese has ruled out a federal inquiry, citing expert advice that it could be divisive and give a platform to “the worst voices”. Human rights commissioner Lorraine Finlay has disagreed, saying existing reviews are “insufficient” and that confronting antisemitism “must be a national priority”.

#44 - Part 17

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 17

>>24065272 Video: NSW Police riot squad to carry long-arm firearms at Sydney Ashes series following Bondi attack – NSW Police will deploy riot squad officers carrying long-arm firearms at the Sydney Ashes Test as part of heightened security measures introduced after the Bondi Beach terror attack. A capacity crowd is expected at the Sydney Cricket Ground, with uniformed, mounted and specialist officers conducting high-visibility patrols. Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said the aim was to help people “feel safe”, acknowledging some spectators may not be used to seeing rifles at sporting events. Assistant Commissioner Leane McCusker stressed the operation was “not in response to any active or imminent threat”, noting all public order officers are rifle trained. Police Minister Yasmin Catley said decisions on the duration of the measures would be made by police, with full government support.

>>24071190 Video: Australia sport legends’ plea to Anthony Albanese: Call a Bondi royal commission – Dozens of Australian sporting figures have urged Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to establish a federal royal commission into antisemitism following the Bondi terror attack, warning Australia risks losing global standing without “decisive national leadership”. More than 70 athletes, coaches and administrators signed an open letter calling the attack an act of terrorism driven by “violent extremist ideology” after “more than two years of escalating extremism”. Former Olympian and Labor senator Nova Peris said national safety was “paramount”, asking, “If we can’t look after our own people on home soil, how do we then guarantee that for international visitors?” Signatories said a royal commission was the “most credible and unifying pathway” to accountability and restoring social cohesion. Albanese has ruled out a federal inquiry, citing advice it could be divisive.

>>24071193 Video: Dawn Fraser attacks ‘spineless’ Albanese over Bondi leadership – Australian swimming great Dawn Fraser has accused the Albanese government of being “spineless” and “too scared to say anything” as antisemitism “festered”, calling on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke to order a federal royal commission. Fraser said leaders had “sat on their hands” and urged them to “do the right thing by this community that has suffered enough”, arguing the Bondi massacre was “not a gun problem” but “an antisemitism problem”. One of more than 70 sports figures backing a royal commission, Fraser said she would always “speak out … to protect my country”, insisting the issue was about leadership, accountability and confronting hatred that had been “building and building”.

>>24071201 Video: Bondi hero Ahmed Al Ahmed hailed with thunderous ovation at Ashes Test – Ahmed Al Ahmed, who tackled one of the gunmen during the Bondi terrorist attack, was given a prolonged standing ovation at the Sydney Ashes Test as the crowd honoured first responders and community heroes. Wearing his arm in a sling, Al Ahmed placed his hand over his heart as 48,000 spectators rose to their feet, joined by a guard of honour from the Australian and England teams. Players including Steve Smith and Usman Khawaja personally greeted him after the national anthem. Heavy security surrounded the ground, with riot squad officers carrying rifles. Al Ahmed subdued one of the attackers at Bondi Beach last month, an act that drew praise as a moment of “spine-tingling” recognition.

>>24075586 Video: Parliament to be recalled soon to debate hate speech laws – Federal parliament is set to be recalled before Australia Day to debate new hate speech and gun laws announced after the Bondi terror attack, as the Coalition says the delay has already gone on “too late”. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said “every day that the parliament has not come back has been a day that it should have come back”, while insisting the Coalition must see draft legislation “well in advance” to ensure it is “fit for purpose”. The government is drafting measures to outlaw extremist groups, create aggravated hate-speech offences, expand visa cancellation powers and strengthen gun controls, including a national firearms register and buyback. Treasurer Jim Chalmers said parliament would be recalled once “very substantive steps” were ready, while independents warned against rushing “knee-jerk” laws.

#44 - Part 18

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 18

>>24080609 Video: PM considering calling a Bondi killings royal commission – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has signalled he may shift toward establishing a federal royal commission into the Bondi shootings, as pressure from senior Labor figures and the community mounts. Sources familiar with government discussions say no decision has been made, but Albanese has privately indicated he understands the need to reconsider his earlier opposition to a national inquiry. Options under consideration include expanding the Dennis Richardson review, closer cooperation with the NSW royal commission, or creating a new federal royal commission, with the latter seen as most likely. Albanese said he was “continuing to examine everything else that is required” and was focused on promoting “unity at this time”. Opposition leader Sussan Ley said “words are no longer enough”, while victims’ families said a royal commission was “the only way to go forward”.

>>24085148 Video: Experts set out case for Bondi royal commission as U-turn looms – Senior legal figures and Jewish leaders say a federal royal commission into the Bondi attack is likely within days, arguing it is the only inquiry with the power to compel ministers to give evidence under oath and produce communications records. Former WA judge Neville Owen said objections to a national inquiry were “unconvincing”, warning state-based processes risked constitutional limits and siloed outcomes. More than 230 former judges and senior barristers wrote to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese saying the Richardson review lacked the “independence, transparency or public authority” of a royal commission. Experts said a federal inquiry could force the production of emails and messages, hear evidence under oath and examine systemic failures. Albanese has signalled a shift, saying the government would do “everything required” to promote unity.

>>24085157 Video: Greens soften on royal commission, co-founder Bob Brown says PM set to cave – Greens co-founder Bob Brown has said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is likely to call a federal royal commission into antisemitism and the Bondi massacre “in the coming days”, describing such an inquiry as “very, very important”. Brown said a royal commission was “popular” and that Albanese still “had a judgment to make”, adding, “I think it’s headed that way to a royal commission being called”. The Greens remain the only parliamentary party yet to formally back a federal inquiry but have signalled openness pending an official government briefing. A party spokesman said the Greens would “work constructively” to uncover what went wrong and prevent a repeat. Senior Greens figures have instead criticised new hate speech and protest laws, without endorsing a royal commission.

>>24085178 Video: Bondi hero Ahmed al Ahmed to be feted at Jewish gala in New York – Bondi attack hero Ahmed al Ahmed has travelled to the United States for medical treatment under escort from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and will attend a Jewish gala dinner in New York. Al Ahmed, a Sydney tobacco shop owner who was shot twice after disarming a gunman during the December 14 Bondi Beach attack, will appear alongside Bondi Rabbi Yehoram Ulman at the Colel Chabad awards gala. He wrote on Instagram he was “on my way to start my treatment journey in the United States” and thanked the FBI for their “warm welcome, outstanding protection and genuine care”. Al Ahmed received a standing ovation at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Sunday and was photographed wearing a yarmulke ahead of the event, with organisers praising his “courage and moral clarity”.

>>24090610 Royal Commission Called:‘I’ve taken the time to reflect’: Anthony Albanese bows to intense pressure, announces antisemitism royal commission- (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced a federal royal commission into antisemitism and the Bondi terror attack after three weeks of intense pressure from victims’ families, Jewish community leaders, business figures and politicians. Former High Court justice Virginia Bell will lead the inquiry, with the government asking her to deliver a final report by the end of the year. Albanese said he had “taken the time to reflect” and met extensively with victims’ families, saying their lives had been “shattered”. The commission will examine the prevalence of antisemitism, the circumstances surrounding the Bondi attack, the adequacy of law enforcement and security agency responses, and ways to strengthen social cohesion and counter ideological and religious extremism. Albanese said antisemitism was not confined to one state and that the inquiry would not be “a drawn-out process”. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said the decision came “three weeks too late”, arguing the government had been forced into acting.

#44 - Part 19

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 19

>>24090619 Video: Former high court judge confirmed as commissioner despite Frydenberg objections – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has appointed former High Court justice Virginia Bell to lead the federal royal commission into the Bondi terror attack and antisemitism, despite objections from prominent Jewish figures including former treasurer Josh Frydenberg. Critics raised concerns about Bell’s role in protest law jurisprudence, citing her involvement in the Brown v Tasmania ruling, which affirmed constitutional protections for peaceful protest. Frydenberg and others argued broad community consensus over the commissioner was a “minimum requirement”, preferring former Federal Court chief justice James Allsop. Supporters defended Bell as an independent and highly respected jurist, warning that allowing interest groups to veto appointments would undermine the credibility and independence of the inquiry.

>>24096759 Video: Donald Trump ‘watching for full transparency’ from Anthony Albanese in Bondi inquiry amid concerns over PM’s pro-Palestine history – Donald Trump’s special envoy to combat antisemitism has warned the United States is closely watching Australia’s Bondi royal commission, citing concerns about Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s impartiality. Rabbi Yehuda Kaploun said the US president was “pleased” a royal commission had been called but expected it to operate with “full transparency”. He questioned whether Albanese’s past participation in pro-Palestinian protests contributed to the government turning a “blind eye” to antisemitism before the attack. “There was a level of apathy and just no interest to deal with it until a tragedy occurred,” Kaploun said. He said Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio were “waiting to see” accountability, adding the inquiry must ensure those responsible “shoulder the blame” and prevent future attacks.

>>24096768 Video: Hero of Bondi Ahmed al-Ahmed meets Kevin Rudd on visit to US – Bondi hero Ahmed al-Ahmed has met Australian ambassador to the United States Kevin Rudd in New York while travelling for further medical treatment after being shot during the December 14 attack. Al-Ahmed, who disarmed one of the gunmen, described Rudd as “my hero” and told him he was “the best prime minister to Australia”, saying he had “put my blood for my country”. Rudd praised Al-Ahmed’s actions as “extraordinary”, noting footage of the disarming “went out across the world”. Al-Ahmed also met US Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer, who thanked him “for his bravery”, and attended a Colel Chabad gala where he was honoured for uniting people “together, not apart”.

>>24105483 Video: Islamic group Hizb ut-Tahrir under renewed scrutiny as shocking speeches reignite debate over Australia’s national security after Bondi attack – The Islamist group Hizb ut-Tahrir has faced renewed calls to be banned in Australia after staging a Sydney rally featuring incendiary speeches weeks before the Bondi terror attack. At the Bankstown event, speakers praised sharia law as “the only solution” and denounced Western society, with one cleric urging followers that “the time to work for Khilafah is now”. Critics said the rhetoric intensified concerns about the group’s ideology and influence. Hizb ut-Tahrir is banned in several countries but has avoided Australia’s legal threshold for proscription. ASIO director-general Mike Burgess has warned the group seeks to “test and stretch the boundaries of legality”, while Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said lowering the threshold would allow groups that “hate Australia and hate Australians” to be banned.

>>24109990 Video: Anthony Albanese’s post-Bondi hate speech and gun reforms spark alarm in Coalition ranks – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged MPs to back an omnibus bill criminalising racial hatred and tightening gun laws after the Bondi terror attack, triggering concern within Coalition ranks. The bill would ban hate groups such as Hizb ut-Tahrir, introduce jail terms of up to 15 years, establish a national gun buyback and tighten import controls. Coalition MPs raised alarm over an exemption allowing quotation of “religious texts”, warning it could permit antisemitic views, while others said it protected faith communities. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley accused Labor of trying to “wedge” the Coalition by linking speech and firearms policy, saying the move fostered “division - not unity”. Albanese said the laws were essential for “national unity”.

#44 - Part 20

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 20

>>24114633 Video: Coalition on track to split over Labor’s post-Bondi Beach massacre hate speech and guns omnibus bill next week – The Coalition is heading towards a split over Labor’s omnibus bill linking hate speech laws and gun reforms after the Bondi Beach massacre, with Liberals and Nationals signalling different positions. Former Nationals leader Michael McCormack said there was “definitely” a prospect the Liberals would support the bill while the Nationals would not, citing opposition to restrictions on firearms. Liberal MP Andrew Hastie said he was “unlikely to support the bill” over concerns it breached religious freedom. While many Coalition MPs accused Anthony Albanese of trying to “wedge” the opposition, some Liberals said backing the legislation was necessary to address antisemitism, even if it divided the partyroom.

>>24119693 ‘Ghoulish reminder’: Premier calls for demolition of Bondi footbridge – (Video) NSW Premier Chris Minns has called for the demolition of the Bondi footbridge used in last month’s terror attack, warning it could become a “ghoulish reminder” or be “exploited” in the future. Minns said victims and their families should have the final say but argued Bondi should not be defined solely by “horrible terrorism”. Waverley Council is set to vote on the site’s future after a confidential report found both pedestrian bridges at the beach are nearing the end of their useful life and will need replacement within several years. The council will consider options including bridge replacement, memorial planning and community consultation, with Mayor Will Nemesh saying the decision should not be rushed and must prioritise the views of grieving families.

>>24119710 ‘Deeply perverse’: US State Department official takes aim at Labor’s hate speech laws – A senior US State Department official has publicly criticised the Albanese government’s proposed hate speech laws, warning a new racial vilification offence could be “clumsy” and even “deeply perverse”. Under secretary for public diplomacy Sarah Rogers said laws that jail people for secular speech while exempting religious quotations risk distorting the public sphere and protecting extremists. Her comments followed concern over a carve-out allowing hate speech if it directly quotes religious texts. The exemption has alarmed Coalition MPs, Jewish leaders and faith groups, who argue it could incentivise antisemitism and leave enforcement to uncertain court interpretation. The government says the defence would not apply to inciting violence, but critics say it mirrors flawed NSW provisions and should be abandoned.

>>24124522 Video: Greens hold the cards to pass hate speech bill as Ley walks away – Labor’s proposed hate speech and anti-vilification laws face an uncertain path after Opposition Leader Sussan Ley rejected the draft legislation, leaving the government reliant on the Greens to secure passage. Ley said the bill was rushed and nearly unsalvageable, ending hopes of bipartisan support despite the Coalition previously backing anti-vilification measures recommended by antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal. Labor plans to recall parliament next week and may negotiate with the Greens, who oppose the current draft and want protections expanded to other minority groups. Jewish leaders warned against the laws collapsing or the Greens becoming kingmakers. Civil liberties groups and legal experts have also raised concerns the bill is too broad and could chill political speech, including protests.

>>24124525 ‘Don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good’: Jewish groups urge Ley to back bill – (Video) Australia’s peak Jewish body has urged the Coalition to support Labor’s post-Bondi antisemitism reforms, warning that rejecting the bill outright would be a “retrograde step” despite its flaws. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry said the legislation represented an important incremental advance against hate speech and hate preachers, even if it was imperfect. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has labelled the package “unsalvageable”, citing concerns over free speech, gun reforms and religious exemptions. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he was “stunned” the Coalition was retreating after weeks of demanding urgent action. Jewish leaders acknowledged the need for careful scrutiny but stressed the urgency of action following the Bondi attack, arguing amendments should be pursued without abandoning the legislation altogether.

#44 - Part 21

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 21

>>24133731 Video: Protesters chant ‘intifada’ at first post-attack rally at Sydney Town Hall – More than 300 pro-Palestine demonstrators gathered at Sydney Town Hall under a heavy police presence for the first major protest since the Bondi Beach terror attack, with chants of “long live the intifada” and “globalise the intifada” drawing scrutiny. More than 100 police officers monitored the rally, detaining and later releasing one man carrying a “Blame Hamas” sign, while several others were spoken to for breach-of-the-peace incidents. Protesters opposed NSW’s temporary protest ban, criticised proposed federal antisemitism laws and condemned Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s planned visit. Organisers rejected any link between the protest movement and the Bondi attack, as debate continues over banning extremist slogans under state and federal law.

>>24133737 Video: Albanese’s big hate speech bill in jeopardy as bishops unite with imams to oppose it – Labor’s post-Bondi hate speech and gun reforms are in serious doubt after senior religious leaders, including Catholic Archbishop of Sydney Anthony Fisher, urged Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to shelve the legislation, warning it could restrict religious expression and damage social cohesion. The intervention strengthens Opposition Leader Sussan Ley’s rejection of the bill as rushed and unsalvageable, easing pressure on the Coalition to compromise. The omnibus package includes a gun buyback, powers to ban extremist groups and new anti-vilification offences that civil liberties groups and legal experts say threaten free speech. Albanese is now weighing whether to narrow the bill to win Coalition support or broaden it to secure Greens backing, with failure leaving the government politically exposed.

>>24134317 Video: Labor backs down on post-Bondi changes as political support collapses – The Albanese government has abandoned its flagship post-Bondi omnibus reforms, splitting the package into separate gun and hate-speech bills after losing Senate support from both the Coalition and the Greens. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese conceded the proposed anti-vilification laws “did not have enough support”, following the Greens’ decision to oppose them alongside the Coalition. Labor will now proceed only with measures that can pass parliament, retaining gun buyback and firearms controls while dropping contentious provisions criminalising the promotion of hatred. The Greens will support gun reforms but not hate-speech laws, citing concerns about free speech and rushed drafting. Albanese accused the opposition of hypocrisy, while Sussan Ley criticised Labor for reversing its insistence the bill was “un-splittable”.

>>24134349 Video: PM dumps hate speech laws, tries to salvage anti-Semitism laws – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has abandoned plans to criminalise racial hate speech after conceding the measures lacked Senate support, splitting Labor’s post-Bondi response into separate bills on guns and extremism. Albanese said he could not “guarantee the eradication of antisemitism” without hate speech laws but blamed the Coalition and Greens for blocking them, adding: “We do not have a majority in the Senate … that is the parliament Australians voted for.” Parliament will still vote on legislation to ban extremist groups such as Hizb ut-Tahrir and neo-Nazis, expand visa refusal powers, and implement a $1 billion gun buyback. The Greens will back gun laws but not hate speech provisions, while the Coalition says the original bill was “unsalvageable,” leaving broader antisemitism reforms stalled.

>>24138367 Video: Status of hate laws remains uncertain as politicians converge on Canberra – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s bid to tighten federal hate laws remains unresolved as parliament prepares for a special sitting responding to the Bondi terror attack. The government has dropped plans to criminalise the promotion of racial hatred, leaving a gun buyback scheme and measures to blacklist hate groups and strengthen deportation powers. The gun bill is expected to pass with Greens support, but any remaining hate law changes will require Coalition backing. Opposition figures say they are reviewing the legislation “in good faith” while flagging concerns about free speech and ministerial powers to designate hate groups. Albanese has urged unity and signalled measures will not proceed without clear parliamentary support, leaving the fate of the hate laws uncertain.

#44 - Part 22

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 22

>>24142629 Video: Trump asks Australia, Albanese to join Gaza “Board of Peace” – Australia has been invited by US President Donald Trump to join a proposed international “Board of Peace” aimed at overseeing the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire, though Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the offer is still under consideration. A draft charter circulated to dozens of leaders would see participating countries represented by their heads of government for up to three years, with an option to remain longer by paying a US$1 billion contribution. The document, revealed by Bloomberg, makes no explicit reference to Gaza and leaves key details unresolved. Albanese said he had received the correspondence overnight but would not respond without proper consideration. The proposal has already drawn criticism from Israel over a lack of consultation and the inclusion of figures from Türkiye and Qatar.

>>24142643 Video: Bondi massacre families react to Albanese in parliament: Enough with all the politics now, time to act – Families of victims and survivors of the Bondi terror attack say Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s condolence motion has not shifted their view of his leadership, with several accusing him of politicising their suffering. Speaking after the parliamentary address, relatives said the speech felt hollow and failed to deliver accountability or concrete action. Some criticised the delay in recalling parliament and establishing a royal commission, saying victims’ families were forced to fight for basic responses. Others described the rush to debate legislation as inadequate and warned against symbolic gestures replacing substantive policy change. While Albanese pledged responsibility and national resolve in parliament, several family members said they remained unconvinced, calling for sustained, practical action rather than further speeches.

>>24147566 Video: Hate speech laws pass House of Representatives after deal struck – Federal hate speech laws introduced after the Bondi Beach terror attack have passed the House of Representatives following a deal between Labor and the Liberals, clearing the way for Senate approval. The legislation was separated from gun control reforms after opposition from the Coalition and Greens to the original omnibus bill. The laws passed the lower house 116–7, with 27 MPs abstaining, including most Nationals members. Key amendments included a requirement that the opposition leader be consulted before extremist organisations are listed. Several independents and crossbench MPs voted against the bill, citing free speech concerns. Racial anti-vilification provisions were dropped to secure sufficient parliamentary support.

>>24156850 Video: Australia holds day of mourning for Bondi Beach shooting victims – Australia is marking a national day of mourning for the 15 people killed in the Bondi Beach mass shooting, with flags at half-mast, candlelight vigils and a minute’s silence observed nationwide. A central memorial event is being held at the Sydney Opera House under the theme “Light Will Win”, bringing together victims’ families, survivors, first responders and political leaders. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Bondi symbolised Australia’s openness and that the attack shattered a place meant to be defined only by “waves”. The government has confirmed a royal commission into the attack and security failures, alongside new federal measures tightening gun laws, strengthening hate crime penalties, expanding visa cancellation powers and formalising mechanisms to ban extremist groups.

>>24156858 Video: Hamas symbol painted across historic Melbourne monuments ahead of Australia Day – Two historic Melbourne monuments have been vandalised ahead of Australia Day, with a Hamas-linked symbol spray-painted across damaged memorials in Flagstaff Gardens. An inverted red triangle, described as a military symbol used by Hamas, was found on the destroyed Pioneer Monument alongside the words “Land Back” and “Death to Australia”. The same markings were used to deface the Separation Memorial. Police said machinery was likely used to pull down the Pioneer Monument before it was vandalised overnight and confirmed an investigation is under way. The incident occurred on a national day of mourning for the 15 victims of the Bondi Beach terror attack. Victorian leaders condemned the vandalism as “abhorrent”, while Jewish community representatives said the act imported symbols of terror and was deeply offensive.

#44 - Part 23

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 23

>>24161252 ‘Deeply sorry’: Albanese’s regret over Bondi terror attack – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has apologised to the Jewish community for failing to prevent the Bondi terror attack, telling a national day of mourning ceremony at the Sydney Opera House he was “deeply and profoundly sorry”. Addressing families, survivors and first responders, Albanese said the victims had come to celebrate “a festival of light and freedom” but were met with “the violence of hatred”, acknowledging that “everything changed – and for that, I am sorry”. He pledged to “drive antisemitism from our shores” and said Jewish Australians were targeted “because they were Jewish”. The ceremony, themed “Light Will Win”, included candle lighting by victims’ families, tributes from survivors and first responders, and remarks emphasising unity, remembrance and action against hatred.

>>24161262 ‘Profoundly sorry’: PM leads tributes to Australian Jews at Bondi memorial – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has apologised to Australia’s Jewish community during a national day of mourning for the 15 people killed in the Bondi terror attack, telling a memorial at the Sydney Opera House he was “deeply and profoundly sorry” the victims could not be protected. Addressing families, survivors and first responders, Albanese said a country meant to be a “safe harbour” had failed on December 14, when people celebrating Hanukkah were met with “the violence of hatred”. He pledged to stand in solidarity with Jewish Australians and to drive antisemitism from Australia. The ceremony, themed “Light will win”, included tributes from political leaders, prayers, a minute’s silence, and candle lighting by victims’ families.

>>24205837 Jacinta Allan moves to fast-track hate speech laws – The Victorian government is moving to fast-track amendments to the state’s anti-vilification framework, potentially allowing Victoria Police to directly lay charges under new hate speech offences within weeks. The changes would remove the requirement for police to obtain approval from the Director of Public Prosecutions before initiating criminal vilification prosecutions, a safeguard introduced last year to secure Greens support. The government says the amendments will streamline enforcement and increase the likelihood of test cases involving contentious slogans such as “globalise the intifada”. Rather than introducing new legislation, Labor plans to amend an existing justice bill already before parliament. The reforms form part of the government’s post-Bondi response to antisemitism and would take effect following royal assent.

>>24205841 NSW Premier Chris Minns’ ban on ‘globalise the intifada’ slogan faces opposition block – NSW Premier Chris Minns’ push to outlaw chanting the slogan “globalise the intifada” in public is at risk of failing, with both the Coalition and the Greens signalling opposition before legislation has even been drafted. An inquiry recommended criminalising the phrase, but critics argue existing laws already cover incitement to violence if thresholds are adjusted. The Coalition says it supports tackling antisemitism but will not automatically back new legislation, while the Greens are also opposed. Minns has challenged opponents to decide whether they support banning what he describes as hate speech on Sydney streets. Without Coalition or Greens support, any bill is unlikely to pass the Upper House.

>>24210131 Video: NSW Police commissioner extends protest restrictions ahead of Israel president visit - NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has extended protest restrictions for 14 days across parts of Sydney’s CBD and the Eastern Suburbs ahead of Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s scheduled February 8 arrival, citing “significant risk to community safety” following December’s Bondi Beach terror attack. Police said the declaration could be rescinded at any time and may be renewed in two-week increments. Authorities flagged “significant animosity” surrounding the visit and confirmed “3,000 police shifts” would be deployed for security. A coalition of pro-Palestinian and First Nations groups has launched a constitutional challenge, arguing the laws infringe political communication freedoms. The Albanese government defended the invitation, while protest organisers said demonstrations would proceed. Jewish community leaders welcomed the visit, describing it as a gesture of solidarity after the attack.

#44 - Part 24

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 24

>>24218882 Video: Wong defends Israeli president visit amid death threats - Foreign Minister Penny Wong has defended the upcoming Australian visit of Israeli President Isaac Herzog, stating the trip is intended to support the Jewish community following the Bondi Beach terror attack, as authorities respond to security concerns and planned protests. The remarks came as Darcy Tinning, 19, faced strict bail conditions after allegedly posting threats on social media targeting both Mr Herzog and US President Donald Trump. A court barred Tinning from approaching or contacting either leader, while prosecutors described the comments as serious and potentially inciting. Debate over the visit has intensified, with critics questioning Mr Herzog’s record and supporters arguing the trip represents solidarity with victims of the attack. Demonstrations are expected nationwide, highlighting broader tensions surrounding the visit and the conflict in Gaza.

>>24223346 Video: NSW Police warn of arrests ahead of banned protest march in Sydney - NSW Police have warned they are prepared to make arrests if pro-Palestinian protesters proceed with a planned CBD march during Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit, citing existing protest restrictions across central Sydney. Police said demonstrators could lawfully gather at Town Hall but moving assemblies within the exclusion zone would not be authorised. Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul Dunstan said more than 3000 additional police shifts were allocated to the visit, with hundreds of officers assigned to Monday’s protest. Authorities urged organisers to adopt an alternative route outside restricted areas, describing suggestions of single-file marching as impractical. Officials said enforcement measures, including move-on directions, could be used if crowds obstructed roads or pedestrian access. Protest organisers criticised the restrictions, while government figures emphasised the need to maintain public safety.

>>24226755 Revealed: Israel bulldozed part of Gaza war cemetery containing allied graves - Satellite imagery and witness accounts indicate sections of the Gaza war cemetery in Gaza City were subjected to extensive earthworks during the conflict, with disturbed ground and missing headstones visible in images captured months apart. Former caretaker Essam Jaradah said “an area … was bulldozed inside the cemetery walls”, describing the works as deliberate and involving heavy machinery. The Israel Defense Forces said the location was “an active combat zone” where “operational measures were taken … to neutralise identified threats”, adding that “underground terrorist infrastructure was identified within the cemetery”. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission previously reported “extensive damage” to cemetery structures and memorials. Historians and veterans’ groups expressed concern over the impact on allied war graves, while debate continued internationally over wartime conduct and the protection of heritage sites.

>>24227867 Jewish leader condemns graffiti attack on Andrew Hastie's office in Mandurah - Jewish community leaders have condemned a graffiti attack targeting federal MP Andrew Hastie’s electorate office in Mandurah, where the words “traitor goy” were spray-painted on the building. Perth Hebrew Congregation chief rabbi Daniel Lieberman said the term “goy” had increasingly been used as a derogatory reference to non-Jewish people viewed as supportive of Jewish communities. The incident follows recent debate over hate speech legislation, which Hastie ultimately supported after amendments. Federal Liberal MP Julian Leeser described the vandalism as “disgusting”, arguing it appeared linked to Hastie’s stance against extremism and hate movements. Rabbi Lieberman said the attack reflected a broader problem of vilification and intolerance toward differing views.

>>24227931 Video: Albanese defends Herzog visit as Minns invokes rare police powers - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has defended the invitation to Israeli President Isaac Herzog, saying the visit follows the “devastating antisemitic terrorist attack that occurred at Bondi” and is intended “to support the Jewish community”. Acknowledging “mixed views”, Albanese said Australians “have the right to express their views” but urged respect for the visit’s purpose. NSW Premier Chris Minns announced the declaration of a major event area under the Major Events Act, stating authorities “cannot allow a situation where mourners and protesters come into close contact”. Police said the measures provide expanded powers to manage crowds, issue directions and conduct searches if necessary. Protest organisers criticised the restrictions and confirmed demonstrations would proceed, while the state government emphasised the arrangements were “not a ban on protests” but designed to reduce confrontation.

#44 - Part 25

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 25

>>24231304 ‘Draconian’: Supreme Court to hear case against restrictions during Herzog visit - (Video) The NSW Supreme Court will hear a legal challenge brought by the Palestine Action Group contesting the state government’s use of major event powers during Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit. The government declared the trip a major event under the Major Events Act, granting police expanded authority to establish exclusion zones, conduct searches and direct people to leave designated areas. Protest organisers argue the laws are “extraordinary” and “draconian”, saying legislation designed for sporting or cultural events is being applied to restrict protest activity. Police maintain demonstrations may proceed if confined to approved locations and have urged organisers to adopt alternative routes outside restricted zones. A significant policing operation, traffic changes and public transport disruptions are planned across Sydney’s CBD and eastern suburbs.

>>24231308 Video: Police ‘well-prepared’ for Herzog protests as Allan expects disruptions - Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has urged demonstrators to act “respectfully” as police prepare for protests linked to Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit, saying the trip was “a significant moment for Australia’s largest Jewish community”. Allan said she expected “some disruption this week” but expressed confidence Melbourne could manage the impact. Victoria Police said they were “well-prepared for protest activity” and would maintain a “highly visible police presence” across the CBD, emphasising the right to protest “lawfully” and “peacefully”. In NSW, authorities have deployed extensive security measures and invoked major event powers, prompting a Supreme Court challenge from protest organisers who criticised the restrictions as “extraordinary” and “draconian”. Protests are planned in multiple cities, reflecting heightened tensions surrounding the visit.

>>24235860 Video: Queensland moves to ban pro-Palestine slogan ‘from the river to the sea’ under sweeping new hate speech laws - Queensland’s government has announced proposed hate speech reforms that would criminalise the public distribution or recitation of certain “proscribed phrases”, including “from the river to the sea” and “globalise the intifada”. Premier David Crisafulli said the measures were a “considered” response to the Bondi terror attack, while Attorney-General Deb Frecklington said the phrases had “no place in Queensland” when used to incite “hatred, offence and menace”. Under the legislation, breaches could attract penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment. The reforms also introduce new offences linked to harassment at religious services and increase penalties for damage to places of worship. Community responses have been divided, with Jewish leaders welcoming the changes and civil liberties advocates likely to scrutinise the implications for political expression.

>>24235918 Video: Court rejects challenge to sweeping police powers for Israeli president visit - The NSW Supreme Court has rejected an urgent legal challenge to major event powers invoked for Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit, allowing expanded police authorities to remain in force across parts of Sydney. Justice Robertson Wright said the decision was not reached “easily or lightly”, with detailed reasons to be delivered later. The declaration, made under legislation typically applied to large public events, grants police powers including search authorities, movement directions and crowd controls within designated areas. Protest organisers argued the laws were being used to suppress demonstrations, while the state maintained the purpose was public safety and separation of groups. Police operations and restrictions will continue during the visit, with demonstrations expected and authorities warning of enforcement measures for non-compliance.

>>24235929 We warned of surging antisemitism before Bondi attack, says Israeli President Isaac Herzog – (Video) Israeli President Isaac Herzog said warnings about a global “surge” in antisemitism preceded the Bondi Beach terror attack, describing the rise in anti-Jewish hatred as a “global emergency”. During a visit to Bondi Pavilion, Herzog laid a wreath and met survivors, stating: “Hatred that starts with the Jews never ends with the Jews,” and urging stronger action against antisemitism. He criticised protests surrounding his visit, arguing many demonstrations sought to “undermine and de-legitimise” Israel’s “mere existence”. The trip has prompted large rallies and an extensive security operation, alongside political debate over its significance. Australian leaders defended the invitation as an expression of solidarity with the Jewish community, while protest organisers and critics maintained opposition to the visit and Israel’s conduct in Gaza.

#44 - Part 26

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 26

>>24235950 Video: ASIO cautions ABC over Bondi Four Corners program - Australia’s domestic intelligence agency has issued a rare public statement ahead of an ABC Four Corners investigation into the Bondi Beach terror attack, disputing suggestions of intelligence failures. ASIO said claims attributed to the program relied on “uncorroborated” assertions from a “single, unreliable and disgruntled source”, and maintained its 2019 assessment that Naveed Akram did not present indicators of violent extremism at that time. The agency rejected allegations it had received specific intelligence about Sajid Akram or that resourcing decisions contributed to the attack, describing such claims as “false” and “irresponsible”. Four Corners said its reporting drew on multiple sources and that ASIO’s response was reflected in the broadcast. Broader questions regarding intelligence and counter-terrorism settings are expected to be examined by the forthcoming royal commission.

>>24240047 Video: Police defend actions after violent clashes with Herzog protesters in Sydney - NSW Police have defended their response after violent clashes erupted during a large protest against Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s Sydney visit, resulting in multiple arrests. Authorities said officers were “threatened, jostled and assaulted” as crowds attempted to move through restricted areas, prompting the use of move-on powers and capsicum spray to disperse demonstrators. Police described the unrest as involving “melees” and alleged assaults on officers, while protest organisers accused police of excessive force and claimed participants were unable to leave after being boxed in. The confrontation followed a Supreme Court decision allowing enhanced policing powers under a major event declaration. Political leaders urged calm as debate intensified over crowd-control tactics and protest restrictions. Further demonstrations and legal challenges are expected as the visit continues.

>>24240141 Former Australian of the Year Grace Tame’s ‘globalise the intifada’ chant ‘distressing’: NSW Premier - (Video) NSW Premier Chris Minns has criticised former Australian of the Year Grace Tame over chants of “globalise the intifada” during protests against Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit, describing the scenes as “distressing”. Minns linked the phrase to concerns about violence and community tensions following the Bondi terror attack, saying the slogan would be deeply painful for affected families. Federal MPs and political figures also condemned the remarks, arguing such language risked inflaming divisions, while some called for Tame’s conduct to be scrutinised. Tame’s comments came amid large demonstrations and clashes between protesters and police in central Sydney. The controversy has intensified debate over protest rhetoric, free expression, and the boundaries of political speech during heightened security operations.

>>24240177 Video: Anthony Albanese’s slapdown for anti-Herzog mob - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has defended Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s Australian visit, condemning violent protest scenes and rejecting calls to withdraw support for the trip. Addressing parliament, Albanese said engagement with both Israelis and Palestinians was essential to advancing a two-state solution, arguing peace would not be served by treating the conflict “like a football team”. Herzog, attending events with Jewish community members in Sydney, thanked Albanese for his response to the Bondi terror attack while stressing that recently enacted measures against antisemitism would be judged by their “full implementation”. The visit has drawn large demonstrations and heightened security operations, alongside political debate over Australia’s Middle East policy settings. Community leaders described the events as significant for Australia’s Jewish population amid ongoing tensions.

>>24240199 Allan rejects protest ban as Victoria Police prepare for Herzog visit - Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has rejected calls for protest bans ahead of Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s Melbourne visit, describing Sydney’s clashes as “distressing and disturbing” while arguing Victoria’s approach had produced a largely peaceful outcome. Allan cited police advice that only one arrest followed Melbourne’s latest demonstration, saying protests must be lawful and peaceful but not prohibited. She confirmed the government was seeking legal advice on potential post-terror event powers for police, yet stressed bans were not recommended by the Chief Commissioner. Allan urged demonstrators not to inflame community tensions, saying Herzog’s visit aimed to support a grieving Jewish community after the Bondi attack. Victoria Police said it was “well prepared”, flagging a highly visible CBD presence and warning officers would respond to any public-order risks.

#44 - Part 27

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 27

>>24242249 Video: ASIO was told about Bondi shooter’s terrorist links years before attack, former spy claims - A former undercover human source, codenamed Marcus, has alleged he provided ASIO with intelligence in 2019 that Naveed Akram and his father Sajid supported Islamic State, claims the agency says were examined and “found to be unsubstantiated”. Four Corners reported Akram associated as a teenager with figures later convicted of terrorism offences, including Isaac El Matari and Youssef Uweinat, and attended a Ramadan itikaf where extremist rhetoric and violent propaganda were allegedly present. ASIO said the source misidentified Akram and stood by its assessment that he did not adhere to or intend to engage in violent extremism at that time. The program highlighted that Sajid Akram later obtained a firearms licence and that the pair travelled overseas before the attack. Authorities declined detailed comment, citing ongoing cases and the royal commission. Former UK counterterrorism commander Richard Walton said intelligence validation and threat assessments would face scrutiny.

>>24243830 Video: Israeli leader hails “new beginning” in Australian ties - Israeli President Isaac Herzog has declared relations with Australia a “new beginning” after talks with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra, amid protests and heightened security. Herzog said the visit was emotional following meetings with Bondi attack survivors, stating: “When one Jew is hurt anywhere around the world, we in Israel ache and our heart misses a beat.” Albanese said the trip offered support to Australia’s Jewish community and reaffirmed Australia’s backing for “Israelis and Palestinians living side by side in peace and security.” The prime minister also raised the killing of Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom, calling it “a tragedy and an outrage” and pressing for “full accountability”. Herzog received a 21-gun salute from Governor-General Sam Mostyn and will conclude the visit in Melbourne.

>>24243835 Video: Israeli president’s visit to firebombed synagogue cancelled over safety fears - Israeli President Isaac Herzog has cancelled a planned visit to Melbourne’s Adass Israel synagogue, the site of a 2024 firebombing, after consultations with Victoria Police. Authorities cited community safety and logistical challenges securing surrounding residential streets, while stressing there was “no intelligence … to suggest that the event is the target of any specific threat.” Police have been granted special counterterrorism powers for the visit, allowing stop-and-search and preventative actions in designated areas. Deputy Commissioner Bob Hill said a significant operation would ensure safety “for him, the protesters, the community and police.” The Adass Israel congregation, whose Ripponlea synagogue was gutted in the December 2024 attack, has vowed to rebuild. The Melbourne program will proceed, culminating in a large Jewish community event at an undisclosed venue, as protests are expected in the CBD.

>>24243880 ‘Baseless assertions’: ASIO boss defends failure to prevent Bondi attack - ASIO director-general Mike Burgess has defended the agency’s handling of gunman Naveed Akram, telling Senate estimates an internal post-attack review supported ASIO’s 2019 assessment that the Akrams did not present a violent extremism threat at that time. Burgess said the December 14 Bondi massacre was a “matter of grave regret” but rejected claims intelligence was ignored or officers erred. He argued the alleged perpetrators had “gone dark” with a high level of security awareness, leaving authorities unaware of any imminent plot. Burgess cautioned against hindsight judgments and described criticisms as “baseless”, saying the highly classified review was conducted with external oversight. He said the royal commission led by Virginia Bell would determine what lessons should be drawn. Burgess also reiterated warnings about rising antisemitism as a priority threat.

#44 - Part 28

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 28

>>24243888 Bondi shooters went “dark to stay off the radar”: ASIO - ASIO director-general Mike Burgess says the agency will “own” any errors uncovered by the royal commission, while maintaining an external post-attack review cleared ASIO’s 2019 investigation into gunman Naveed Akram. Burgess told a parliamentary hearing the Bondi attackers demonstrated “a high level of security awareness”, adding: “In simple terms, they went dark to stay off the radar.” He described the massacre as a “matter of grave regret” but rejected claims intelligence was ignored, stressing that ASIO is “not all-seeing and all-knowing”. The highly classified review, conducted with “unfettered and unfiltered access”, reaffirmed the agency’s assessment that the Akrams “did not adhere to or intend to engage in violent extremism at that time”. Burgess also cautioned against hindsight judgments after allegations aired on Four Corners.

>>24248810 Video: Isaac Herzog urges Melbourne Jews to wear ‘your Jewish hearts on your sleeve’ and says ‘hope is in the air’ - Isaac Herzog told a Melbourne Jewish community event that “hope is in the air”, urging attendees to “wear your Zionism with pride” during the final day of his Australian visit. He framed the trip as one of “solidarity and love” after the Bondi terror attack and said protesters should “go protest outside the Iranian embassy”. Zionist Federation of Australia president Jeremy Leibler said the attack had “forever changed” Australian Jews’ sense of security and relayed Herzog’s message: “Israel is with you.” Heavy police and security surrounded the venue as thousands of demonstrators prepared to rally in the CBD. Victoria Police operated under rarely used special powers tied to designated areas. Graffiti targeting Herzog and Israel was removed at the University of Melbourne.

>>24248834 ‘Intifada’ chants at anti-Israeli protest shutting Melbourne’s Flinders St - (Video) Several thousand demonstrators converged on Flinders Street Station during Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s Melbourne visit, waving Palestinian flags and chanting slogans including “intifada Palestine”. Police deployed in force as the protest blocked key CBD intersections, preventing access to the Swanston Street station entrance and halting multiple tram routes. Marchers later moved towards State Parliament, where chants of “from the river to the sea” were heard. Greens MP Gabrielle de Vietri criticised the invitation extended to Herzog, saying his presence had deepened divisions and urging voters to respond at the ballot box in the state election year. Union groups, including the Australian Services Union, United Workers Union and Maritime Union of Australia, were represented.

>>24264402 Video: Naveed Akram seen for first time since alleged terrorist attack – Naveed Akram has appeared via audio-visual link in Downing Centre Local Court, marking his first public sighting since the December Bondi Beach attack that killed 15 people. Wearing prison greens with a shaved head, Akram briefly responded to Deputy Chief Magistrate Sharon Freund as non-publication orders were extended and the case adjourned. Akram faces 15 murder charges, 40 counts of attempted murder and a terrorism offence. Police allege he and his father Sajid conducted reconnaissance, produced Islamic State-inspired material and transported firearms, flags and improvised explosive devices prior to the attack. Defence lawyer Ben Archbold declined to comment on remorse, emphasising legal process and professional obligations. Sajid Akram was killed during the incident.

>>24264411 Jewish group urges organisers to cancel Grace Tame’s appearance at Bendigo event – The Australian Jewish Association has called on Be.Bendigo to cancel Grace Tame’s scheduled International Women’s Day appearance, arguing recent protest chants referencing “globalise the intifada” risk deepening community tensions and making Jewish Australians feel unwelcome. Chief executive Robert Gregory said the request reflected heightened concerns amid rising antisemitism and sensitivities following the Bondi attack. Tame was criticised by several political figures after speaking at a Sydney rally opposing Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit, but defended her remarks, stating she rejects violence and hatred. The February 27 Bendigo event is sold out and promoted as a rare opportunity for regional audiences. Charity records also indicate the Grace Tame Foundation’s latest reporting filings are overdue.

#44 - Part 29

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 29

>>24289032 Video: Man charged with hate crime after Brisbane Synagogue targeted in alleged ramming incident - A 32-year-old Sunnybank man has been charged with a hate crime after allegedly ramming a Toyota HiLux ute into the gates of the Brisbane Synagogue on Margaret Street shortly after 7pm Friday. Police said the vehicle knocked down the gates before leaving the scene, with CCTV showing a person standing just centimetres behind the gate moments before impact. The man was later arrested and charged with wilful damage, serious vilification or hate crime, dangerous operation of a vehicle, possession of dangerous drugs and possession of drug utensils. Police said it was a “targeted attack against the Jewish synagogue” but not being treated as terrorism. Authorities believe the man acted alone and investigations are continuing.

>>24289106 ‘A culture of tolerance’: Frydenberg’s hope for Bondi royal commission - Former Australian treasurer Josh Frydenberg has urged the Bondi royal commission to focus on religious extremism as the inquiry into the December massacre that killed 15 people begins hearings. Frydenberg said the process could help rebuild “a culture of tolerance” and prevent future attacks by confronting extremists who “want to hurt and do harm to their fellow Australians”. The inquiry, led by former High Court justice Virginia Bell, will examine intelligence warnings, preparedness and the response to the attack. Opposition Leader Angus Taylor said “serious questions” remain about the Albanese government’s handling of the lead-up to the massacre. The probe will also scrutinise antisemitism, security arrangements and whether authorities had prior knowledge of the alleged attackers.

>>24295203 Pro-Palestine group prepares for ‘advocacy fight’ at royal commission - The Australian Palestine Advocacy Network is preparing to mount a coordinated campaign at the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, describing the inquiry as “one of the most important advocacy fights in the country”. The organisation says it will seek to challenge claims that anti-Jewish incidents are linked to pro-Palestinian activism and argues antisemitism has been “weaponised” to suppress criticism of Israel. The commission, led by former High Court justice Virginia Bell, begins hearings this week following the December Bondi massacre. Former treasurer Josh Frydenberg has urged the inquiry to focus on religious extremism, saying Australia must rebuild “a culture of tolerance”. Jewish community organisations are also preparing coordinated legal submissions to the inquiry.

>>24295210 Video: Ahmed Al Ahmed reveals what he said to Bondi gunman when he turned his weapon on him - Bondi terror attack survivor Ahmed Al Ahmed has described tackling gunman Sajid Akram and seizing his weapon during the December 14 massacre that killed 15 people. In an interview with 60 Minutes, the Sydney businessman said he acted after hearing “kids, women, everyone crying” as gunfire erupted at the Chanukah by the Sea gathering at Archer Park. Al Ahmed said he leapt onto the attacker, wrestled him to the ground and shouted “stop what you doing … You motherf*cker, piece of shit” while trying to take control of the gun. He was shot five times during the struggle and still has two bullets lodged in his shoulder. Despite ongoing injuries, Al Ahmed said he would intervene again “to stop him from killing a human being”.

>>24295228 Bondi hero on life after the attack: ‘I’m proud of what I did’ - (Video) Ahmed Al Ahmed, who disarmed one of the gunmen during the December 14 Bondi terror attack, says he remains proud of intervening despite suffering life-altering injuries. The Syrian-born Sydney businessman tackled gunman Sajid Akram during the attack at the Chanukah by the Sea gathering at Bondi Beach, seizing the weapon before being shot five times by the second attacker, Naveed Akram. Fifteen people were killed and more than 40 injured in one of the deadliest attacks in Australia in modern times. Al Ahmed still has two bullets lodged in his shoulder and has lost much movement in his left hand while undergoing rehabilitation months after the shooting. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese praised him for saving “countless lives”, while a public fundraiser raised about $2.5m to assist his recovery and ongoing treatment. Al Ahmed said he would intervene again “to stop innocent people being killed”.

#44 - Part 30

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 30

>>24295246 The five key questions for the Bondi royal commission to answer - The royal commission into the Bondi Beach massacre and antisemitism in Australia begins hearings this week, with commissioner Virginia Bell tasked with examining the December 14 attack that killed 15 people and injured more than 40. The inquiry will investigate the prevalence of antisemitism in Australia, the motivations of gunmen Sajid Akram and Naveed Akram, and whether intelligence or policing failures contributed to the attack. It will also examine whether governments ignored warnings about rising antisemitism following the October 7 attacks in Israel. The commission will assess the role of radicalisation, including links to Islamic State, and consider potential legal reforms and policy changes aimed at countering extremism and strengthening social cohesion in Australia.

>>24300096 Video: Bondi Royal Commission intelligence evidence delayed - Key intelligence and security evidence for the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has been delayed as agencies seek legal advice before providing material to the inquiry. Commissioner Virginia Bell said the delays followed the integration of a national security review led by former senior public servant Dennis Richardson into the royal commission after the December 14 Bondi massacre that killed 15 people. Agencies must consider issues including public interest immunity, statutory non-disclosure rules and legal professional privilege before releasing documents to the inquiry. Bell confirmed the commission would not hear direct evidence about the attack itself to avoid prejudicing the criminal trial of alleged gunman Naveed Akram. The inquiry will instead focus on antisemitism in Australia as a starting point while examining broader issues of discrimination, extremism and social cohesion.

>>24300105 Opening Hearing - Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion - (Video) The Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion is holding its first public hearing, an opening hearing at 10.30am on Tuesday 24 February 2026. At the opening hearing, Commissioner Bell AC SC will reflect on the terms of reference of the Royal Commission and provide a sense of how she will conduct her inquiry. To find out more about the work of the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion, visit - https://asc.royalcommission.gov.au/

>>24309776 Families of Australian diplomats ordered to evacuate Israel, Lebanon - Australia has ordered the families of diplomats in Israel and Lebanon to evacuate and urged other Australians to consider leaving as tensions rise over possible US military action against Iran. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said the security situation in the Middle East was “unpredictable” and warned that escalating conflict could disrupt travel through airspace closures and cancelled flights. Voluntary departures have also been offered to families of Australian officials in Jordan, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. The move comes as the United States assembles a major military presence in the region while negotiating with Iran over its nuclear program. Vice-President JD Vance warned Tehran to take Washington’s threats of military action “seriously” if diplomacy fails.

>>24309781 Royal Commissioner Bell meets survivors, victims’ families at Bondi massacre site - Antisemitism royal commissioner Virginia Bell has met survivors and relatives of the 15 people killed in the Bondi Beach massacre during a private briefing at Bondi Pavilion, explaining why the inquiry cannot directly examine the December 14 attack. Bell told attendees the Antisemitism and Social Cohesion Royal Commission must avoid hearing evidence from witnesses or victims’ families that could prejudice the criminal trial of alleged gunman Naveed Akram. Survivors said the meeting offered a chance to describe experiences of antisemitism leading up to the attack, though some hope the inquiry might later expand once court proceedings conclude. Bell has insisted the commission will focus on antisemitism as its starting point for strengthening social cohesion, while also confirming delays to intelligence evidence due to legal reviews by government agencies.

#44 - Part 31

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 31

>>24309785 Fight antisemitism or lose your university registration: Clare - Universities will be required to take stronger action against antisemitism and racism or risk losing their registration under proposed federal legislation announced by Education Minister Jason Clare. The changes would expand the powers of the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency, requiring universities to demonstrate they are actively addressing racism as part of their regulatory standards. Clare told the Universities Australia conference the reforms were aimed at ensuring campuses respond decisively to antisemitism following the Bondi Beach massacre that killed 15 people at a Hanukkah celebration. The proposal follows recommendations from the government’s antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal, who urged stronger sanctions against institutions failing to act. Clare said racism can “creep into our campuses” and universities must do more to prevent discrimination and hatred.

>>24309793 Julian Leeser accuses university chiefs of failing to stop ‘cascading antisemitism’ - Coalition education spokesman Julian Leeser has accused Australian university leaders of a “leadership failure” in tackling antisemitism, telling vice-chancellors they had lost the confidence of both government and opposition. Speaking at the Universities Australia conference, Leeser said campuses had ignored repeated warnings about rising antisemitism since the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks and tolerated protests and encampments that left Jewish students feeling unsafe. He said Jewish students had reported harassment, intimidation and antisemitic symbols on campuses, arguing universities had failed to confront the problem. Leeser urged the antisemitism royal commission to summon vice-chancellors to give evidence and called on all universities to adopt the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance definition of antisemitism, warning the Bondi massacre was the “tragic and inevitable endpoint of cascading antisemitism”.

>>24309801 Hash Tayeh’s ‘All Zionists are terrorists’ chant ruled racial vilification - A Victorian tribunal has ruled pro-Palestinian activist Hash Tayeh breached racial and religious vilification laws by leading the chant “All Zionists are terrorists” at a Melbourne rally. Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal vice president Judge My Anh Tran found the slogan incited hatred under the Racial and Religious Tolerance Act, determining that while “Zionist does not mean Jew”, many people would strongly associate Zionists with Jewish people. The case was brought by Orthodox Jewish man Menachem Vorchheimer, who said the chant made him feel unsafe and dehumanised. Judge Tran ruled the chant’s “absolute statement” attached the label “terrorist” to an undifferentiated group, encouraging hostility. Tayeh rejected the decision and said he would appeal, arguing his comments targeted political ideology rather than race or religion.

>>24318774 Operation Epic Fury:Anthony Albanese backs in Donald Trump’s mission to destroy Iran’s nuclear ambitions- Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has backed US President Donald Trump’s military campaign to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, describing the Iranian regime as a threat to international peace and security. In a joint statement with Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Minister Penny Wong, the government said Australia supported US action aimed at stopping Tehran’s nuclear program and preventing further regional instability. The government also urged Australians in Israel and Lebanon to leave while commercial travel options remain available as tensions rise across the Middle East and fears grow of a broader regional conflict. Albanese said Iran had long destabilised the region through its ballistic missile program, support for proxy groups including Hezbollah, Hamas and the Houthis, and repression of its own people. The government also highlighted past actions against Tehran, including expelling Iran’s ambassador from Australia over alleged coordination of domestic attacks targeting Jewish Australians. Opposition leader Angus Taylor condemned the Iranian regime and urged stronger international resolve to prevent Iran acquiring nuclear weapons.

>>24318774 Q Post #1558 - Free Iran!!! Fight - Fight - Fight - Regime change. People have the power. We stand with you. Q - https://qalerts.app/?n=1558 - https://qalerts.app/?q=iran

#44 - Part 32

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 32

>>24323740 Australia 'did not participate' in Operation Epic Fury in Iran - Foreign Minister Penny Wong has confirmed Australia did not participate in the US-Israeli military operation against Iran known as Operation Epic Fury and was not informed of the strikes in advance. Wong said the attack was determined by the United States and Israel and declined to comment on whether Australian intelligence contributed to the operation. The Albanese government convened the National Security Committee of Cabinet and is seeking to confirm whether any Australians were affected. Travel advice has been upgraded, with Australians warned not to travel to Israel, Lebanon, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar or the United Arab Emirates. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said officials were registering Australians seeking to leave Israel and Iran but warned assistance inside Iran remained limited.

>>24323748 Video: Ali Khamenei ‘will not be mourned’: Anthony Albanese condemns Iranian regime after Iran strikes - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has backed US and Israeli strikes against Iran, declaring the death of supreme leader Ali Khamenei would not be mourned and describing the Iranian regime as brutal and oppressive. Albanese said Australia did not participate in the attacks but supported efforts to prevent Iran obtaining nuclear weapons and threatening international security. He accused the regime of sponsoring violence and orchestrating attacks against Jewish targets in Australia, including the firebombing of Melbourne’s Adass synagogue. Opposition leader Angus Taylor also welcomed Khamenei’s death, saying it could open a path for democratic change in Iran. However the strikes drew criticism from Greens leader Larissa Waters and former Labor senator Doug Cameron, who warned the attacks risked wider war and accused the government of backing US and Israeli militarism.

>>24323776 Video: Australian government issues ‘do not travel’ warning amid mass flight cancellations - Australia has issued “do not travel” warnings for the United Arab Emirates and Qatar after widespread flight cancellations and airspace closures across the Middle East following military action in the region. Up to 2,000 flights in and out of major hubs including Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha were cancelled and almost 15,000 delayed, leaving tens of thousands of travellers stranded. Airlines including Emirates, Etihad and Qatar Airways suspended flights, while several Virgin Australia services operated by Qatar Airways were turned back after departing Australian cities. Aviation authorities warned the disruptions could affect global flight networks as airlines reroute around restricted airspace. The government urged Australians in affected countries to follow local instructions and shelter in place while monitoring official travel advice as the security situation remains volatile.

>>24323803 ‘Sweet and sour’ moment as Iranian-Australians celebrate amid uncertainty - (Video) Iranian-Australians have expressed mixed emotions after the death of Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei in US and Israeli strikes, with many welcoming the fall of a regime they blame for decades of repression while fearing the consequences of war. Some members of the community gathered in Melbourne and Sydney to celebrate, waving Iranian, Israeli, American and Australian flags, while others warned the situation could bring further instability and civilian suffering. Community figures said many Iranians had long hoped for the end of the regime but remained uneasy that the change had come through foreign military intervention. Iranian-Australian leaders said most people hoped the moment could open a path toward democracy, though the future remained uncertain and there were concerns about who might replace the current leadership.

>>24328508 Australia rules out military role in Iran conflict - Australia has ruled out taking part in military operations against Iran as fighting escalates following Israeli and US strikes and retaliatory missile attacks by Tehran. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Australia did not participate in the initial strikes and would not anticipate any future military involvement, stressing the country was not central to the Middle East conflict. The government is instead focusing on assisting Australians stranded in the region as airspace closures disrupt travel and commercial flights remain suspended. Wong said about 115,000 Australians were in the Middle East and returning home would depend largely on airlines resuming services. Defence Minister Richard Marles said steps had been taken to protect about 100 Australian defence personnel stationed at Al Minhad Air Base near Dubai.

#44 - Part 33

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 33

>>24328519 115,000 stuck in Middle East; Aussie UAE expats recount air strikes - (Video) About 115,000 Australians are stranded across the Middle East as airspace closures and mass flight cancellations follow Iranian retaliatory strikes in the region, Foreign Minister Penny Wong says. The government is urging Australians to register with the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade while awaiting the possible resumption of commercial flights, with evacuation options limited while airspace remains closed. Australian residents and travellers in Gulf cities described taking shelter during missile strikes and drone attacks, as explosions were heard in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Some expats said they spent hours hiding indoors while relying on social media and messaging groups for information. Authorities said the attacks targeted military sites but also struck airports and other infrastructure, disrupting travel across the region.

>>24328532 Shiite clerics honour Khamenei, Hezbollah leader in sermons Tony Burke says will be watched - Shiite clerics in Sydney and Melbourne have publicly mourned Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in sermons following their deaths in Israeli and US strikes, prompting warnings from Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke that authorities would monitor the rhetoric. At Sydney’s Al Zahra Mosque, Sheikh Ali Safdari praised Khamenei as a leader who fought imperialism and Zionism, while another cleric urged followers to continue the struggle against “American-Israeli aggression”. Several organisations also advertised memorial gatherings honouring Khamenei. Burke said the Iranian leader had overseen a regime responsible for attacks on Australian soil and questioned how anyone could mourn him. NSW Premier Chris Minns condemned the memorial events as “atrocious”, while Jewish community leaders called for investigations into any links between mosques and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

>>24334177 Sydney mayor backs Shi’ite memorial for ‘martyred’ Ayatollah Khamenei, lashes Chris Minns - Liverpool mayor Ned Mannoun has defended Shi’ite Muslims who held a memorial for Iranian supreme leader Ali Khamenei in a council-owned community centre, accusing NSW Premier Chris Minns of unfairly targeting the Islamic community. The event, organised by a local Shi’ite group at the Frank Oliveri Community Centre, mourned Khamenei after his death in US-Israeli strikes. Mannoun said he had no issue with the gathering as long as laws were not broken, arguing people in a free society should be able to mourn religious leaders. Minns had earlier labelled memorial events for Khamenei “atrocious” and condemned the Iranian regime’s human rights abuses. The dispute follows sermons and events honouring Khamenei across Sydney, prompting calls from federal opposition figures for investigations into possible links with Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

>>24334212 Defence taskforce on standby for Middle East evacuations - The Australian government has placed Defence personnel on standby to assist potential evacuations from the Middle East as conflict involving Iran escalates. Defence Minister Richard Marles said a joint taskforce had been established to prepare for contingencies if Australians in the region require evacuation. Army units at Brisbane’s Enoggera Barracks are among those on alert for possible deployment. About 115,000 Australians are believed to be in the Middle East, many stranded after thousands of flights were cancelled following regional airspace closures. Marles confirmed Australian Defence Force personnel at Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates were safe after a drone attack on the facility. The government says commercial flights remain the most likely way for Australians to return home once travel resumes.

>>24334226 We’re natural allies: new Israeli envoy Hillel Newman’s entreaty to Labor - (Video) Israel’s new ambassador to Australia, Hillel Newman, says he wants to strengthen bilateral relations with Canberra and establish regular strategic dialogue between senior ministers after several years of strained ties. Speaking shortly after presenting his credentials, Newman thanked the Albanese government for supporting the joint US-Israeli operation against Iran and said Israel would continue fighting until threats from Tehran’s nuclear program and ballistic missiles were removed. He described Australia and Israel as “natural allies” and said deeper co-operation could benefit both countries across security and regional diplomacy. Newman also predicted the conflict could reshape the Middle East and expand the Abraham Accords between Israel and Arab states. His appointment comes after tensions in the relationship following Australia’s recognition of Palestinian statehood and rising antisemitism domestically.

#44 - Part 34

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 34

>>24338592 Wong dispatches crisis squads to Middle East to help stranded Australians - but no rescue planes yet - Foreign Minister Penny Wong has dispatched six crisis response teams to the Middle East to assist Australians stranded by widespread airspace closures following the escalating Iran conflict, as the first resumed commercial flight from Dubai is expected to arrive in Sydney. The government says about 115,000 Australians remain in the region, with officials prioritising the restoration of commercial flights as the most practical path for evacuation. Wong described the situation as an “unprecedented” consular crisis as Iranian retaliatory strikes spread across multiple countries, disrupting travel and trapping tens of thousands of travellers and expatriates. Opposition figures criticised the government’s handling of the crisis, arguing warnings to the public came later than those issued to diplomats. The Australian Defence Force has established a taskforce to explore evacuation options if conditions deteriorate further.

>>24343318 Canadian PM Mark Carney and Anthony Albanese brush off calls for Middle East ceasefire - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney have resisted calls for an immediate ceasefire in the expanding Middle East conflict, arguing that de-escalation must first ensure Iran’s nuclear ambitions and support for militant groups are addressed. Speaking in Canberra after Carney’s address to federal parliament, both leaders said the international community wanted tensions reduced but insisted the war must remove the long-standing threat posed by Iran’s nuclear program and regional activities. Carney said a ceasefire could only occur once attacks on civilians and infrastructure ended and hostilities began to subside. The leaders also announced new agreements to deepen Australia-Canada cooperation across clean energy, defence coordination, space technology and critical minerals, while promoting stronger partnerships among “middle powers”.

>>24343325 ‘Military assets’ deployed to Middle East, Anthony Albanese says - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed Australia has deployed “military assets” to the Middle East as part of contingency planning to assist Australians stranded by the escalating regional conflict. Speaking during Question Time, Albanese said the situation remained volatile and dangerous, with more than 115,000 Australians still believed to be in the region. The government has prioritised commercial flights as the fastest way to return large numbers of travellers, with repatriation flights from Dubai already bringing hundreds of Australians home. Defence aircraft, including heavy transport and refuelling planes, are understood to have been positioned in the region to support possible evacuation operations if required. Opposition figures have demanded clarification about the deployment, while the government says it continues to assess options to support Australians seeking to leave the Middle East.

>>24343330 Iran regime removal will cut global antisemitism, Ryvchin says - Executive Council of Australian Jewry co-chief executive Alex Ryvchin says the removal of Iran’s regime would likely reduce antisemitic activity worldwide and improve relations between Israel and Arab states. Speaking in Washington while meeting US officials and lawmakers, Ryvchin said the Iranian government had played a destabilising role internationally and that its fall could make the world safer. He also highlighted the experience of Australian Jews, describing a sharp deterioration in security following rising antisemitism and the December Bondi Beach terror attack that killed 15 people. Ryvchin said extremist rhetoric and social division had created conditions that allowed violence to occur. He expressed support for international action against Iran’s nuclear ambitions and said a future democratic Iran could foster regional engagement and reduce tensions globally.

#44 - Part 35

Australian Politics and Society - Part 1

>>23856806 Video: Trump removes tariffs on beef, fruit, coffee in affordability push - President Donald Trump has scrapped tariffs on hundreds of agricultural imports in an affordability drive, removing the edge that helped Australian beef exports surge into the United States this year. The order, issued late Friday, aims to lower grocery costs as voters demand relief, with Trump saying it was “necessary and appropriate” after assessing demand and domestic capacity. Trade Minister Don Farrell welcomed the move, arguing tariffs “ultimately hurt American consumers”. Australian beef had benefited from a 10 per cent tariff, well below those faced by Brazil and New Zealand. The shift comes as US beef prices rise more than 12 per cent and may anger cattlemen already battling drought and high input costs.

>>23856808 Video: Former US spy boss Mike Rogers takes aim at Julian Assange and Edward Snowden - Retired NSA director Mike Rogers has criticised Julian Assange and Edward Snowden, saying he “would totally disagree with the course of action that they both chose” after their disclosures of classified material. Rogers argues that “theft of classified information is not one of the ways” to raise concerns and says public distrust in institutions has long existed in the United States. He warns misinformation is now one of the biggest threats to democracies such as Australia and the US, highlighting the ease with which distorted images and falsehoods spread online. Rogers says solutions will require policy, platform accountability and citizens becoming “much more sceptical” about what they read or see.

>>23864561 ‘Time to go home’: neo-Nazi who rallied outside NSW Parliament has his visa cancelled - The federal government has cancelled the visa of civil engineer Matthew Gruter after he took part in an antisemitic neo-Nazi rally outside NSW Parliament on November 9. Immigration Minister Tony Burke said visa holders are “guests” and those who “show hatred” can be told “it’s time to go home”. Gruter, identified by The Age and by anti-fascist researchers with the White Rose Society, has been photographed leading National Socialist Network training sessions and wearing a wristband inscribed with the Hitler Youth slogan “blood and honour”. Home Affairs said it will act against individuals who pose “behaviour of concern”. The case has reignited debate over NSW’s racial hatred laws, while police continue considering charges against participants in the protest.

>>23868378 Video: Brad Battin ousted as Victorian opposition leader, Jess Wilson becomes state's first female Liberal leader - Victorian opposition leader Brad Battin has been removed in a party room spill, with former shadow treasurer Jess Wilson elected as the state’s first female Liberal leader. Battin conceded the vote “didn’t go my way”, saying the party must position itself to win the next election. Wilson said the party had “spoken very clearly” and needed a “new direction”, adding her priorities include home ownership, state debt, crime and healthcare. Her elevation marks the third Liberal leadership change in under a year, and if she remains leader through next November, it will be the first Victorian election contested by two female leaders. Battin will remain in the shadow ministry.

>>23868386 Video: Neo-Nazi who rallied outside parliament taken into Villawood detention centre - Neo-Nazi Matthew Gruter has been taken into immigration detention ahead of deportation to South Africa after Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke cancelled his visa on character grounds. Gruter, identified as a senior National Socialist Network member, was among those shouting antisemitic slogans outside NSW Parliament on November 8. In an online statement, he said Australian Border Force officers arrived early Tuesday and took him to Villawood, adding he would “exhaust all legal options” to avoid removal. Burke said neo-Nazis “hate modern Australia” and warned the government was “very confident” in its decision. Australia Post is separately investigating whether one of its regional delivery managers also attended the rally. A fundraising page for Gruter has raised $16,000, with some donors using Nazi-allusion usernames.

#44 - Part 36

Australian Politics and Society - Part 2

>>23873289 NSW government to bring in tougher laws to combat public displays of Nazi ideology - The NSW government will introduce stronger laws targeting public displays of Nazi ideology after a November 8 rally outside state parliament, where about 60 men in black held an “Abolish the Jewish lobby” banner and chanted “blood and honour”. Amendments to the Crimes Act will ban public conduct indicating support for Nazi ideology, including chants or slogans, with penalties of up to one year in jail or an $11,000 fine. Harsher penalties apply near synagogues, Jewish schools or the Sydney Jewish Museum. NSW Jewish Board of Deputies welcomed the changes. Police will gain new powers to order the removal of Nazi symbols and demand identification. Premier Chris Minns said clearer laws would help police navigate free speech and hate speech issues.

>>23873299 Julie Inman Grant hauled before US judiciary committee over Online Safety Act - eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant has been ordered to appear before the US House judiciary committee after chair Jim Jordan accused her of promoting “foreign censorship regimes” and being a “zealot for global takedowns”. Jordan said her enforcement of Australia’s Online Safety Act, including her attempt to block global access to video of the 2024 stabbing of Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel, “directly threatens American speech”. He also linked her to Stanford’s Cyber Policy Centre, alleging “collusion” with bodies involved in extraterritorial censorship. eSafety said it enforces Australian law only and accepts geoblocking as reasonable compliance. Critics such as Matt Canavan said Australia’s approach is angering countries with strong free-speech protections.

>>23887868 Video: Grief-stricken families disappointed by Wieambilla coronial findings - A coroner has ruled the Wieambilla shootings were not terrorism but the actions of psychotic conspiracy theorists “intent on killing”, leaving the families of constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow devastated. Gareth, Stacey and Nathaniel Train ambushed four Queensland officers in December 2022, killing Arnold and McCrow, before murdering neighbour Alan Dare. Coroner Terry Ryan found the trio suffered a shared delusional disorder, believing police were “demons”, and said their high-powered rifles made the officers’ Glock pistols “woefully inadequate”. Families called the findings “disappointing”, insisting the deaths were preventable and pleading for urgent reforms, including nationwide implementation of new safety measures. Police leaders vowed the fallen officers would not be forgotten.

>>23887892 Neo-Nazi figure Joel Davis among three arrested over alleged threats made to politicians, PM - The AFP has arrested three men over alleged threats to federal MPs, including neo-Nazi National Socialist Network member Joel Davis. Police allege Davis used an encrypted app to share a “menacing message” urging group-chat members to “rhetorically rape” Wentworth MP Allegra Spender after she condemned an NSN rally. A 29-year-old Tamworth man was charged over alleged threats to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, while Victoria’s Stefanos Eracleous was arrested for alleged threats to senator Lidia Thorpe. The AFP says threats to parliamentarians have surged 63 per cent in four years, warning extremist groups are actively eroding social cohesion. Davis was refused bail.

>>23887925 Neo-Nazi's bank accounts frozen as private sector moves to cut off group's funding pipeline - Neo-Nazi organiser Jack Eltis has had his bank accounts frozen as private companies move to choke off funding to the National Socialist Network (NSN). ME Bank cancelled his accounts under rules preventing services used to “defame, harass or threaten” or “promote violence”, with Eltis saying it is the third time he has been “debanked”. NSN leader Thomas Sewell has been removed from nine banks. Stripe – a major global payment-processing platform – also withdrew services, blocking online donations and forcing supporters to send cash by post. NSN has been barred from crowdfunding sites and from using Telegram recruitment bots. Despite this, the group is pursuing political registration under the proposed party name “White Australia”.

#44 - Part 37

Australian Politics and Society - Part 3

>>23887991 Streaming platform Twitch to be included in under 16s social media ban - Twitch will be added to Australia’s under-16s social-media ban after eSafety commissioner Julie Inman Grant ruled that its livestreaming functions make it a platform designed for user interaction rather than gaming alone. From December 10, Australians under 16 will be barred from opening accounts, and Twitch says existing under-16 accounts will be deactivated over the following month. Pinterest is excluded, with eSafety deeming it primarily for image curation. The ban covers Facebook, Instagram, Threads, Snapchat, TikTok, X, YouTube, Reddit, Kick and now Twitch, and companies that fail to take “reasonable steps” face fines of up to $50 million. Coalition critics say the late additions reflect “sloppy, last-minute policy work”.

>>23891573 Albanese joins world leaders to defy Trump on climate change, free trade – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined most G20 leaders in backing a declaration supporting the Paris climate agreement, net zero emissions by mid-century and free trade, despite opposition from US President Donald Trump. Albanese said it was “a very positive sign that the world wants to get on with co-operating” and that Australia would act in its “national interest”. The declaration reaffirmed commitments to “intensify efforts” to limit global warming, with leaders endorsing net zero “by or around mid-century”. Trump’s administration labelled the move “shameful”, accusing hosts of breaking consensus. Albanese said Australia would not be deterred, adding: “We have an interest in action on climate change… and in free and fair trade.” The statement highlights growing global alignment despite US resistance.

>>23895370 Video: Hanson suspended from Senate for wearing a burqa in the chamber – Pauline Hanson was suspended from the Senate after wearing a burqa during proceedings, prompting protests from other senators and condemnation from major parties. The One Nation leader donned the garment after being denied leave to introduce a bill banning burqas, a policy she has long promoted. Senate President Sue Lines ruled her conduct disorderly and the chamber voted to suspend her for the day. Labor’s Penny Wong said the act showed “disrespect”, while Greens and crossbench senators said it targeted Muslim women. Australia’s Islamophobia envoy, Aftab Malik, warned the stunt would worsen harassment and threats against Muslim women. Hanson defended her actions as highlighting national security concerns. It was the second time she has worn a burqa in the Senate.

>>23895384 Top cop Krissy Barrett to talk to global police chiefs on tackling tobacco smugglers and neo-Nazis – Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett will seek international cooperation to combat illicit tobacco trafficking and extremist groups, including neo-Nazis, at the Interpol General Assembly in Morocco. Barrett said organised crime linked to illegal tobacco is fuelling violence and social harm, while extremist networks are undermining social cohesion. She will urge global police chiefs to share intelligence, expand asset-tracing efforts such as Interpol “silver notices,” and counter hate-based extremism. The AFP has recently targeted neo-Nazi figures and illicit tobacco networks, including alleged kingpin Kazem Hamad. Barrett said Australia’s demand for illicit goods continues despite cost-of-living pressures, and that cooperation with Pacific and global partners is essential to disrupt criminal supply chains and prevent organised crime from exploiting regional vulnerabilities.

>>23895404 Kevin Rudd cops ‘earful’ from Trump trade tsar over content quotas for streamers – Australia’s ambassador to the United States, Kevin Rudd, has been warned by US trade representative Jamieson Greer that proposed Australian content quotas for streaming platforms could trigger trade tensions. During a closed-door meeting in Washington, Greer criticised plans requiring major streamers to invest in local content, saying the policy could cause “a lot of heartache”. The proposal would compel platforms with more than one million Australian subscribers to spend a share of local revenue on Australian productions. The Albanese government argues the measure supports the domestic screen industry, but US officials view it as discriminatory. The dispute adds to broader US concern over Australia’s regulation of tech companies and media markets.

#44 - Part 38

Australian Politics and Society - Part 4

>>23900187 Video: Pauline Hanson barred from parliament for seven days after latest burqa stunt – Pauline Hanson was suspended from the Senate for seven days after refusing to apologise for wearing a burqa in the chamber following a failed attempt to introduce a ban on face coverings. The Senate formally censured her, with senators condemning the act as “hateful and shallow pageantry” that “mocked and vilified” Muslim Australians. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said the stunt had “cruel consequences”, while Senator Fatima Payman warned it could endanger Muslim women. Hanson claimed the burqa was “not a religious requirement” and said she was defending women’s rights. Coalition and crossbench figures criticised the protest as divisive, with George Brandis calling it “despicable”. Hanson walked out before the suspension vote.

>>23900231 Trump administration orders US embassy to collect data on migrant crime in Australia – The Trump administration has instructed its embassy in Canberra to collect data on crimes and human rights abuses involving migrants, as part of a broader global effort it says is aimed at confronting “mass migration”. A senior US State Department official said the policy was intended to warn allies that large migrant intakes, “particularly of a culture that’s radically different”, could fuel social and economic instability. The move extends to other countries including Canada and New Zealand and forms part of a broader review of migration, diversity and human rights policies. Canberra said the issue had not been raised formally. The US also plans to refocus its annual human rights reporting to scrutinise diversity policies and migration impacts.

>>23904268 Video: Concerns as police granted new weapon search powers in Melbourne CBD – Victorian police will be able to conduct warrantless weapons searches across Melbourne’s CBD and surrounding suburbs for six months from November 30, prompting criticism from civil liberties groups. The expanded powers allow officers and PSOs to search people, vehicles and belongings in designated areas including transport hubs and major streets. Police say the move follows intelligence and previous seizures showing a risk of weapon-related harm, and insist searches will be behaviour-based, not discriminatory. Civil liberties group Liberty Victoria says the measure erodes basic legal protections and risks racial profiling, particularly affecting First Nations people. Police reject this, saying officers are trained to avoid bias and that the powers are necessary to prevent violence.

>>23904295 Social media age ban faces High Court challenge as government vows not to back down – Australia’s under-16 social media ban is being challenged in the High Court, with the Digital Freedom Project arguing it breaches the implied freedom of political communication. The group says the laws are “grossly excessive” and amount to a “direct assault on young people’s right to freedom of political communication”. Two 15-year-olds are named as plaintiffs, saying the ban “silences” young voices and treats teens as incapable of navigating online spaces. Communications Minister Anika Wells said the government would not be “intimidated”, declaring it stood “on the side of parents, not platforms”. She said the laws were about protecting children, not “big tech”. The Coalition, while backing the ban, warned of “unintended consequences”.

>>23908848 Video: Joyce quits Nationals, signals potential One Nation move – Barnaby Joyce has resigned from the Nationals after two decades, saying he was pushed out and is considering running for Pauline Hanson’s One Nation as a Senate candidate. Joyce said he would sit as an independent and described his marginalisation within the party as an “ejection”. He accused party leaders of sidelining him and said the Coalition faced electoral trouble. Nationals figures condemned his decision as a betrayal, with leader David Littleproud and others saying the party had stood by him through controversies. Joyce said he was weighing options including the Senate or leaving politics altogether. His move follows weeks of speculation and marks a dramatic rupture in conservative politics, with One Nation openly courting him.

#44 - Part 39

Australian Politics and Society - Part 5

>>23921036 Mass migration claims debunked as the far right gathers – Anti-immigration protesters gathered in Sydney as experts rejected claims of “out-of-control” migration used by far-right groups to mobilise supporters. About 400 demonstrators marched through the CBD, while researchers said Australian Bureau of Statistics travel data had been misused to inflate migration figures. ANU’s Alan Gamlen said the data “captures all sorts of people who are not in any way, shape or form migrants” and warned that misrepresentation was “divisive and potentially damaging to social cohesion”. Net overseas migration has been falling since late 2023. Police maintained a visible presence as counter-protesters rallied nearby, and authorities warned against hate speech or unlawful conduct. Experts said fear-based narratives were distorting public debate on migration and social cohesion.

>>23921044 Video: Melburnians warned to brace for disruptions as police prepare for protest clash – Melbourne residents are being warned to expect major CBD disruption as police prepare for rival anti-immigration and anti-far-right rallies expected to draw at least 2000 people on Sunday. The protests coincide with the opening of the Metro Tunnel, free public transport across the network, Black Friday shopping and Christmas events. Police fear a repeat of violent clashes seen in October, when officers were injured and charged two men over assaults. Superintendent Troy Papworth said police would not tolerate violence and warned protesters they could be searched, ordered to leave the city or detained. Authorities also cautioned extremists may attempt to hijack the demonstrations.

>>23921057 ‘I wouldn’t move to Victoria’: Pauline Hanson speaks at Melbourne anti-immigration rally – One Nation leader Pauline Hanson addressed a crowd at an anti-immigration rally in Melbourne’s CBD, declaring she would “never move to Victoria” and pledging to run One Nation candidates in the 2026 state election. Speaking at the Put Australia First protest, which also featured a video message from banned UK far-right figure Tommy Robinson, Hanson criticised the Victorian Labor government and accused both major parties of failing voters. Counter-protesters briefly disrupted the rally before police intervened. The event coincided with the introduction of expanded police search powers allowing warrantless searches in designated areas. Authorities warned of disruption following previous violent clashes that left officers injured.

>>23921067 Video: Anthony Albanese marries Jodie Haydon in low-key wedding – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese married partner Jodie Haydon in a private ceremony at The Lodge in Canberra, becoming the first sitting Australian prime minister to wed while in office. The couple, who met in 2020 through a shared love of the South Sydney Rabbitohs, were joined by close family, friends and senior cabinet colleagues. Ms Haydon wore a gown by Romance Was Born, while their dog Toto served as ring bearer. The ceremony featured music by Ben Folds, Stevie Wonder and Frank Sinatra. Mr Albanese described the day as a celebration of their shared life, following years marked by personal challenges and political milestones, including his 2025 election victory. The couple will honeymoon in Australia.

>>23921126 South Australia Liberals vow to call time on state Indigenous voice – South Australia’s Liberal opposition says it would repeal the state’s Indigenous Voice to Parliament if elected in March 2026, replacing it with a smaller advisory body. Opposition Leader Vincent Tarzia argues the current model is costly, ineffective and has failed to influence legislation, citing low voter turnout and limited engagement. The voice, established under Labor, costs $2.5 million over four years and includes six regional bodies and a state council. Premier Peter Malinauskas has defended it as an election commitment and supports progressing to treaty and truth-telling. Liberals say they favour direct consultation but oppose the current structure, which they argue lacks accountability and public support.

#44 - Part 40

Australian Politics and Society - Part 6

>>23930013 Video: Social media ban promoted in $10m ad blitz as children flock to exempt platforms – The Albanese government has launched a $10 million advertising campaign to promote its impending ban on social media use by under-16s, as Communications Minister Anika Wells signalled more platforms could be brought under the regime. Officials told Senate estimates $6.4m will fund advertising, with the remainder for research and creative costs, ahead of the December 10 start date. Platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, X and YouTube will be required to prevent under-16s from holding accounts. As the ban nears, children are reportedly shifting to exempt platforms including Yope, CoverStar and ByteDance-owned Lemon8. Wells said all platforms were “on notice” if harmful behaviour emerged.

>>23934669 ‘Disappointing’: YouTube finally agrees to adhere to new laws ahead of Australia’s social media ban – (Video) YouTube has confirmed it will comply with Australia’s incoming ban on social media access for children under 16, requiring affected users to be signed out from December 10 and preventing them from creating or using accounts until they reach the age threshold. While under-16s will still be able to view content, they will lose the ability to post, comment, like videos or subscribe to channels, and parents will no longer be able to apply platform-based parental controls. Google said it would follow the law but warned the changes could reduce online safety, arguing the restrictions remove protective tools and were developed through a rushed legislative process. The Albanese government maintains the ban is necessary to protect children online.

>>23934739 Trump ‘seriously’ considering version of Australia’s superannuation system – US President Donald Trump has said he is considering adopting a version of Australia’s superannuation system, as part of efforts to boost the country’s declining birthrate and expand long-term household wealth. Speaking at an event announcing a US$6.25 billion philanthropic donation to fund savings accounts for children, Trump said the Australian model was being examined as a potential template for American workers. The proposal would sit alongside new “Trump accounts”, which provide government seed funding for children born during his second term. Australian superannuation has been promoted in Washington by the Albanese government and Ambassador Kevin Rudd as a major source of stable capital. US officials say the model could help broaden investment participation and long-term economic engagement.

>>23939152 ‘More than rhetoric’: $95m boost to support Ukraine – Australia has announced a $95 million support package for Ukraine, joining New Zealand as the first non-NATO countries to contribute funding for military assistance through international mechanisms. The package includes $50 million for the US-led Prioritised Ukraine Requirements List, $43 million in Australian Defence Force equipment such as air-defence radars, munitions and engineering assets, and $2 million for advanced drone technologies. Defence Minister Richard Marles said the funding would make a “tangible difference” to Ukraine’s defence against Russia’s invasion. The commitment lifts Australia’s total support to more than $1.7 billion since 2022. The announcement comes amid continued fighting and uncertainty around peace talks, and alongside new sanctions targeting Russia’s “shadow fleet” used to evade oil restrictions.

>>23939208 Australia’s social media lockout begins as teens face digital exile – (Video) Australia has begun enforcing its under-16 social media ban, with Meta starting to remove teenage users from Facebook and Instagram ahead of the December 10 deadline. About 500,000 accounts are expected to be affected as platforms are required to block new under-16 users and remove existing ones. YouTube has also confirmed compliance, though it criticised the policy as rushed and ineffective. Communications Minister Anika Wells said enforcement would take time, while the eSafety Commissioner warned not all accounts would disappear immediately. Concerns have been raised about impacts on vulnerable young people and migration to alternative platforms. An independent panel will assess outcomes, while companies face fines of up to $49.5 million for non-compliance.

#44 - Part 41

Australian Politics and Society - Part 7

>>23947354 Departing Australian High Commissioner Stephen Smith defends tenure, hits out at ‘irrelevant’ critics – Outgoing Australian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Stephen Smith has defended his tenure, dismissing critics within the expatriate community as out of touch and arguing his reforms were necessary to modernise Australia’s diplomatic presence in Britain. Smith said Australia House had been refocused away from traditional social functions toward advancing strategic, economic and security priorities, including trade, defence cooperation and energy transition. His approach drew criticism from sections of the Australian community in London, who accused him of sidelining long-standing networks and events. Smith rejected those claims, saying his focus was on national interest outcomes, including strengthening ties under the Australia–UK free trade agreement. He said economic and strategic engagement had deepened during his tenure as he prepares to depart the post.

>>23947365 New police search for Dezi Freeman fails to find his body – A renewed police search in Victoria’s Mount Buffalo National Park has failed to locate the body of suspected double police killer Dezi Freeman. Taskforce Summit officers and specialist police, including cadaver dogs, spent five days searching nearly one square kilometre of dense bushland and caves near Porepunkah. Police said the operation focused on identifying evidence or Freeman’s remains, but no trace was found. Freeman has not been seen since allegedly fatally shooting two police officers in August. Investigators have now assessed more than 1,950 pieces of information linked to the case. Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien said police remained committed to locating Freeman and would continue targeted searches based on intelligence while maintaining a strong presence in the community.

>>23947379 Families of officers killed in Wieambilla attack launch court action against Queensland and NSW police – The families of two police officers killed in the 2022 Wieambilla shootings have launched legal action against Queensland and New South Wales police, alleging negligence caused them psychological harm. Constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow were fatally shot while responding to a missing person report, with two colleagues also injured. Court filings argue failures by police agencies contributed to the deaths. The action follows coronial findings that the perpetrators were driven by delusional beliefs and intended to kill officers, though the coroner found police procedures and information-sharing were not deficient. The families of the victims and a neighbour killed in the attack are pursuing separate legal avenues. The case also renewed scrutiny of police preparedness and intelligence sharing across jurisdictions.

>>23951156 PM brands social media ban a success before it starts – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has declared Australia’s world-first social media ban for under-16s a success ahead of its commencement, arguing it has already prompted national conversations between parents and children about online safety. The ban, taking effect this week, requires major platforms including Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat and X to block accounts held by users aged 13 to 15. Albanese acknowledged enforcement would not be perfect but compared it to age limits on alcohol, saying the policy aims to protect childhood development. Communications Minister Anika Wells defended international advocacy for the reforms and warned more platforms could be added. Critics, including the Coalition, questioned enforceability and compliance by tech companies. Platforms face fines of up to $49.5 million for failing to take reasonable preventative steps.

>>23951171 Tech giants forced to blur porn and violence in world-first Australian social media ban – Australia will require major tech companies to blur pornographic and violent images and restrict under-16s from social media under new laws taking effect this week. The eSafety Commissioner’s code compels platforms, app stores and search engines to blur explicit content unless users verify they are adults, and to redirect searches about suicide or self-harm to support services. From December 27, platforms must also prevent children from accessing major social networks or face fines of up to $49.5 million. The reforms aim to limit accidental exposure to harmful material and reduce online addiction, while acknowledging enforcement challenges. Australia is the first country to impose such measures, drawing global attention and potential legal challenges.

#44 - Part 42

Australian Politics and Society - Part 8

>>23954828 Christmas unplugged: Australian teen social media ban brings holiday headspace woes – Australia’s under-16 social media ban will take effect just before the summer school holidays, raising concerns about isolation and mental health impacts for teenagers. More than one million young people will lose access to platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and YouTube from December 10, coinciding with a six-week break from school routines. Mental health experts warn the timing may heighten anxiety, particularly for young people who rely on online spaces for social connection, identity or support. Youth services are preparing for increased demand, with helplines expanding staffing and clinics bracing for higher caseloads. While the government argues the ban will reduce harm from online content, advocates caution that unintended consequences, including loneliness and reduced access to support, must be closely monitored.

>>23954839 Barnaby Joyce defects to One Nation, Nationals criticise ‘disappointing’ move – Former Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce has defected to Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, confirming he will sit as a One Nation MP and lead the party’s NSW Senate ticket at the next federal election. Joyce said his move followed a breakdown in his relationship with Nationals leadership and frustration over energy and immigration policy, arguing Australia’s interests were no longer being prioritised. One Nation leader Pauline Hanson welcomed Joyce, saying his experience strengthened the party’s growing political influence. Nationals leader David Littleproud criticised the decision as “disappointing”, accusing Joyce of abandoning his electorate and joining a “party of protest”. The defection follows polling showing rising support for One Nation and declining Coalition support.

>>23959476 Day of ‘reckoning’ as Jacinta Allan apologises to Aboriginal citizens – Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has delivered a sweeping parliamentary apology to Aboriginal Victorians, acknowledging historic and ongoing injustices committed by the state and its colonial predecessors. Speaking as the Statewide Treaty Bill passed parliament, Allan described the moment as a “reckoning” and apologised for dispossession, child removals, cultural erasure and systemic discrimination, repeating “we say sorry” 14 times. The apology was supported by Labor, the Greens and independent Will Fowles, but opposed by the Liberals and Nationals, who nonetheless issued their own statement acknowledging disadvantage. Opposition Leader Jess Wilson framed the disagreement as one of policy approach, not recognition of harm. The legislation establishes a permanent First Peoples Assembly to advise government as treaty negotiations proceed.

>>23964197 ‘It didn’t work bro I’m still here’: Kids brag as they beat social media ban – Australian teenagers have quickly exposed gaps in the new under-16 social media ban, with many boasting online that they remain active despite platform restrictions. While Communications Minister Anika Wells said more than 200,000 TikTok accounts were deactivated, users reported accessing accounts via backups, alternative platforms or technical workarounds such as VPNs. Some flooded Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s TikTok page to mock the policy. The eSafety Commissioner acknowledged enforcement would take time and that early breaches were expected, stressing responsibility lies with platforms, not families. Meanwhile, alternative apps like Lemon8 and Yope surged in popularity, prompting warnings they may also be targeted if harms emerge.

>>23964240 Australian teens defy world-first social media ban flocking to unregulated apps – Australian teenagers are bypassing the under-16 social media ban by migrating to lesser-known platforms such as Lemon8, Yope and Coverstar, which surged in downloads after restrictions took effect. The ban, introduced by the Albanese government and overseen by Communications Minister Anika Wells and eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman-Grant, targets major platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat and YouTube. Experts warn the shift could expose young users to greater risk, as many alternative apps lack robust moderation. Teenagers report using VPNs, false age declarations and parents’ accounts to evade controls. Researchers, including Curtin University’s Tama Leaver, say young users are rapidly adapting, potentially undermining safety goals. The government maintains platforms - not families - bear responsibility for enforcement, while monitoring migration patterns.

#44 - Part 43

Australian Politics and Society - Part 9

>>23964286 Australia social media watchdog sees common cause with US as age ban begins – Australia’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant says the country’s world-first ban on under-16s using major social media platforms reflects a growing global push to rein in tech companies, rejecting claims it threatens free speech. As the ban takes effect, Inman Grant said many US parents support similar measures and that “technological exceptionalism” should not shield platforms from safety rules applied to other industries. She argued nations are entitled to protect children from harms linked to online content and addictive design. While US lawmakers have criticised the policy, she said cooperation with American agencies is growing, and international interest is rising. The law imposes fines of up to $49.5 million on non-compliant platforms, with enforcement driven partly by reputational pressure.

>>23964328 ‘Parents need help’: US Republicans back Australia’s social media ban as tech groups attack – Australia’s under-16 social media ban is drawing support from senior US politicians even as tech industry groups warn it could harm American companies. Republican Senator Josh Hawley and former Chicago mayor Rahm Emanuel backed the policy, arguing parents need help countering the influence of social media on children. Senator Bernie Sanders also welcomed Australia’s approach, though others cautioned about privacy and enforcement risks. Industry lobbyists warned the ban could set a global precedent that disadvantages US firms and restricts free speech. The policy has triggered debate in Washington, London and Europe, with governments weighing whether Australia’s model should be replicated.

>>23968489 ‘Are we next?’: world reacts to Aussie social media ban – (Video) Australia’s decision to bar under-16s from major social media platforms has drawn intense global attention, with international media, governments and commentators assessing whether the policy could be replicated elsewhere. Major outlets including CNN, The New York Times, The Washington Post, the BBC and Al Jazeera covered the ban, while Malaysia signalled plans to introduce similar laws in 2026. European media and leaders, including EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, are monitoring its impact. The ban, which imposes fines of up to $49.5 million on non-compliant platforms, has also prompted debate in the US and UK over child safety, digital rights and enforcement. Some nations praised the move, while others questioned its feasibility and evidence base.

>>23968505 Video: Reddit prepares challenge to Albanese’s social media age ban in court – Global online platform Reddit is preparing a High Court challenge to Australia’s world-first social media age restrictions, arguing the laws unlawfully burden political communication. The potential case, backed by senior barrister Perry Herzfeld SC and law firm Thomson Geer, would target legislation introduced by the Albanese Labor government and enforced by eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman-Grant. The ban raises the minimum age for social media use to 16 and carries fines of up to $49.5 million for non-compliance. Reddit, which has 3.7 million Australian users, says it does not collect age data and disputes being classified as a social media platform. The challenge would join a separate High Court action launched by the Digital Freedom Project, supported by NSW Liberal Democrats MP John Ruddick.

>>23968527 First climate migrants arrive in Australia from sinking Tuvalu in South Pacific – The first climate migrants from Tuvalu have arrived in Australia under a landmark bilateral agreement offering relocation as rising seas threaten the Pacific nation’s survival. More than a third of Tuvalu’s 11,000 residents applied for the program, which caps annual intake at 280 people to avoid workforce depletion. Among the first arrivals are a pastor, a dentist, and Tuvalu’s first female forklift driver, settling in South Australia, Victoria and Queensland. Australia says the scheme provides “mobility with dignity” while preserving cultural ties. Scientists warn that by 2050, rising seas could submerge much of Tuvalu’s main atoll, making relocation increasingly unavoidable.

#44 - Part 44

Australian Politics and Society - Part 10

>>23968540 Australians to be forced to provide their social media to enter the US – Australians travelling to the United States will be required to disclose their social media accounts under proposed Trump administration rules expanding security checks for the Visa Waiver Program. The US Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection plan to mandate disclosure of five years of social media identifiers, alongside expanded data including phone numbers, emails, biometrics and travel metadata. The move follows an executive order by President Donald Trump to strengthen vetting standards. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia respected the US right to set entry rules. The changes, subject to public consultation and approval by the Office of Management and Budget, could lengthen processing times and increase scrutiny for travellers from Australia and other allied nations.

>>23968569 Australian travellers face huge data demands in proposed US visa changes – Australian travellers face tougher entry requirements under proposed US visa changes that would mandate extensive personal data collection, including five years of social media activity, biometric identifiers and family details. The US Department of Homeland Security and Customs and Border Protection propose expanding the ESTA system, replacing its current limited disclosure with demands for phone numbers, email addresses, IP data, biometric identifiers such as fingerprints, iris scans and potentially DNA. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the United States had the right to set its own entry rules. The proposal follows a Trump administration directive on enhanced vetting and is open for public consultation. Travel industry experts warn the measures could slow approvals and deter travel amid already falling visitor numbers.

>>23990885 X Global Government Affairs Tweet: X welcomes the decision of Australia’s Classification Review Board to unban videos of the attacks on Charlie Kirk and Iryna Zarutska in Australia. At the request of the eSafety Commissioner, the Classification Board classified footage of the attacks as “Refused Classification,” meaning they were banned completely on all platforms and could not be sold, distributed, or shown anywhere in Australia. Following X’s legal challenge, the Classification Review Board lifted the ban and agreed that the videos portray real events with profound social and political significance that adults should be able to see. X fought this case to uphold free speech and the importance of access to information about matters of public significance. We remain committed to protecting these principles.

>>23996438 Assange files complaint against Nobel winner Machado – WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has lodged a formal legal complaint in Sweden seeking to block the Nobel Foundation from releasing prize money to Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, arguing her political positions violate the principles underpinning the Nobel Peace Prize. Assange claims Machado’s public support for US President Donald Trump’s military and sanctions policies toward Venezuela contradicts Alfred Nobel’s requirement that recipients advance peace, disarmament and international cooperation. The complaint accuses Nobel officials of misappropriation of funds and facilitating war crimes by awarding the prize, and seeks to freeze the payment of about US$1.18 million, demand the return of the medal and open an investigation into the foundation’s leadership. Assange argues Machado has encouraged aggressive foreign intervention and militarisation. Machado, currently in Norway, has defended her stance as supporting democracy and freedom in Venezuela, and has participated in official Nobel-related events despite not attending the ceremony itself.

>>23996448 Daniel Andrews in hospital amid health scare – Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews has been hospitalised in Melbourne and remains in a stable condition, with Labor sources saying he has been unwell for several days but is “up and talking” and in good spirits. The nature of his illness has not been confirmed, though sources have denied speculation he suffered a stroke. Andrews, 53, has been admitted to Monash Clayton Hospital as a precaution, with colleagues saying it was sensible to seek medical checks. He resigned as premier in 2023 after nearly a decade in office and has largely remained out of public view since. The former leader previously endured a serious health episode in 2021 after falling down stairs, suffering broken ribs, spinal injuries and respiratory failure, requiring weeks in intensive care and months of rehabilitation.

#44 - Part 45

Australian Politics and Society - Part 11

>>24006135 Video: Neo-Nazi Jacob Hersant found to have intentionally performed banned salute, loses legal challenge to law – Victorian neo-Nazi Jacob Hersant has lost a constitutional challenge to laws banning Nazi symbols after a judge found he deliberately performed a prohibited salute outside the County Court. Hersant, 26, raised his arm and said “heil Hitler” days after the ban took effect, following his sentencing over a violent 2021 attack involving the National Socialist Network. Judge Simon Moglia ruled the act was intentional and political, but that the law was valid despite limiting implied freedom of political communication. “I’m satisfied beyond reasonable doubt Mr Hersant intentionally performed a Nazi salute,” he said, describing the act as “contemptuous”. Hersant argued through lawyer Tim Smartt that the law was unconstitutional and the act non-violent, but the challenge failed. He remains on bail ahead of sentencing and declared outside court: “I am a Nazi.”

>>24022892 Video: Home affairs minister cancels visa of British national charged with displaying Nazi symbols – Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has cancelled the visa of a 43-year-old British national charged with displaying Nazi symbols and promoting anti-Jewish hatred, saying Australia will not tolerate people who come “for the purposes of hate”. The man was arrested in Queensland earlier this month after allegedly using social media accounts to post Nazi imagery and advocacy of violence, and police seized weapons including swords bearing swastikas from his home. He faces charges including displaying prohibited symbols and using a carriage service to menace or harass. Burke said the case reflected a tougher stance following the Bondi terror attack, with expanded powers to deport visa holders engaged in hate activity. He said inciting hatred alone should justify cancellation, adding the man had “dedicated himself” to antisemitic extremism.

>>24038412 Video: Man charged after Nazi tattoos allegedly displayed at Newcastle beach – A 36-year-old man has been charged after allegedly displaying Nazi tattoos at Bar Beach in Newcastle on Christmas Eve, prompting a police investigation under NSW hate-symbol laws. Andrew Marc Laszlo Lorant was arrested three days later at a home in Urunga and charged with knowingly displaying prohibited Nazi symbols and causing such symbols to be displayed in public. Police allege the tattoos included SS insignia and “white power” imagery. He was granted bail under strict conditions, including not displaying extremist symbols and reporting daily to police. The incident was reported by local resident Ben Parsons, who said the tattoos were openly displayed near families at the beach. The case is being pursued under laws introduced in 2022 criminalising public Nazi symbols. Lorant will appear in Newcastle Local Court on January 22.

>>24051415 Video: US Congress threatens to compel Australia’s eSafety Commissioner to testify amid global censorship claims - The US House Judiciary Committee has warned it may compel Australia’s eSafety Commissioner, Julie Inman Grant, to testify over allegations her office pursued global censorship and harassed American tech firms. In a letter dated December 30, committee chair Jim Jordan accused eSafety of attempting to impose extraterritorial content takedowns under Australia’s Online Safety Act and collaborating with foreign governments and academics to design a “global censorship regime”. The committee cited demands for platforms to commit to content moderation frameworks and concerns about VPN use. Inman Grant has declined to appear, citing inability to attend, prompting lawmakers to question her refusal. As a US citizen, she was told she has an obligation to cooperate. The committee warned it may take further steps if she does not comply.

#44 - Part 46

Australian Politics and Society - Part 12

>>24071212 Albanese calls for ‘peaceful, democratic transition’ of power in Venezuela after US capture of Nicolás Maduro – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called for a “peaceful, democratic transition” in Venezuela following the forcible capture of President Nicolás Maduro by US forces, while urging that international law be respected. Albanese said Australia was “monitoring developments” and called on all parties to pursue “dialogue and diplomacy” to secure regional stability and avoid escalation. He said Canberra had “long held concerns” about Venezuela, including respect for “democratic principles, human rights and fundamental freedoms”. The government reiterated its Smartraveller website advice urging Australians not to travel to Venezuela due to an “unpredictable” security situation and reports of military activity. Opposition leader Sussan Ley welcomed Maduro’s removal, saying the world should ensure “dictators and despots face justice”. Greens defence spokesperson David Shoebridge described the action as a “gross breach of international law” that placed the world on a “dangerous footing”. The United Nations security council is due to meet on the crisis.

>>24071233 ‘This is a triumph’: Australian Venezuelans celebrate downfall of dictator – (Video) Members of Australia’s Venezuelan community have celebrated the capture of Nicolás Maduro by US forces, describing it as a moment of long-awaited hope after years of repression, poverty and displacement. Venezuelans in Sydney and Melbourne said they hoped the development would open a path back to democracy, despite debate over the legality of US action. Sydney-based Jackeline Giovannucci said there had been “enormous human rights violation[s]” in Venezuela and that the community had sought international help “for many years”, calling the events “a triumph”. Others acknowledged claims the intervention was driven by oil interests but said it represented “liberation” and a chance to return home. Celebrations coincided with protests opposing US involvement, with some Venezuelans saying critics were focused on geopolitics while ignoring decades of suffering and the voices of those forced to flee.

>>24080627 Video: Sydney protest ban extended days after three arrested at unauthorised rally – NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has extended Sydney’s 14-day protest ban by another fortnight after an unauthorised Town Hall rally over the US raid on Venezuela led to three arrests. Lanyon said public assemblies posed a risk of “fear and public safety issues”, adding, “the time is not now for any retribution” and that police wanted the community to “move around safely”. The declaration, introduced under laws passed after the Bondi terror attack, restricts street protests but allows stationary gatherings, with police empowered to issue move-on orders. The extension runs until January 20 and could be renewed, potentially affecting the January 26 Invasion Day march. Police Minister Yasmin Catley said she “unequivocally supports” the decision, while activists have flagged a constitutional challenge.

>>24107059 UK seeks to partner with Australia and Canada in censorship plot against Elon Musk’s X: report – The UK government has reportedly discussed a coordinated response with Australia and Canada over Elon Musk’s social media platform X amid concerns about AI-generated sexual images, according to The Telegraph. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said “all options” were on the table, including a ban, under powers in Britain’s Online Safety Act. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the use of X’s Grok tool to generate explicit images was “completely abhorrent” and showed platforms failing to act responsibly. Canada has denied considering a ban. Musk accused Starmer’s government of acting “fascist” and seeking “any excuse for censorship”. The report said coordinated action could risk escalating tensions with the Trump administration, which has opposed censorship measures in Europe.

#44 - Part 47

Australian Politics and Society - Part 13

>>24110014 ‘She had our backs - we got hers’: Hero Bondi Westfield cop diagnosed with cancer - (Video) NSW Police Inspector Amy Scott, who confronted and fatally shot a knife-wielding attacker at Bondi Junction Westfield in April 2024, has been diagnosed with a “rare and aggressive” form of breast cancer. NSW Police Legacy launched an appeal to support Scott and her family, saying she faced a “long, uphill battle”. Scott was alone when she confronted Joel Cauchi, preventing further loss of life, and was later awarded the Commissioner’s Valour Award for “exceptional bravery”. More than $190,000 has been raised, with donations and messages of support flowing from across Australia. Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon said Scott was “surrounded by the unwavering love and support” of the force, while Premier Chris Minns described her as a “genuine, bona fide Australian hero”.

>>24114637 ‘Honour to serve’: Kevin Rudd’s surprise exit sparks search for Donald Trump whisperer – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faces a key diplomatic decision after Kevin Rudd announced he will step down as Australia’s ambassador to the United States a year early, triggering a search for a successor able to manage relations with President Donald Trump. Rudd will leave at the end of March to become global president of the Asia Society. Former Labor ministers Joel Fitzgibbon and Stephen Conroy are seen as leading contenders, alongside possible non-political appointments. Albanese said the move was “entirely Kevin Rudd’s decision” and rejected suggestions of US pressure. Foreign Minister Penny Wong praised Rudd’s role in securing bipartisan backing for AUKUS and advancing critical minerals cooperation, saying he had delivered “very significant” achievements during his term.

>>24119726 Video: AFP chief hails arrest of gangland boss Kazem Hamad in Iraq – Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett has welcomed the arrest in Iraq of alleged gangland boss Kazem Hamad, describing it as a major disruption to an offshore criminal network targeting Australia. Hamad, previously labelled Australia’s most wanted man and a national security threat, was detained by Iraqi authorities following intelligence sharing and an official Australian request. Iraqi officials allege he was involved in large-scale drug trafficking, organised crime and violent offences across Australia and the Middle East. Hamad was deported from Australia in 2023 after serving an eight-year sentence and is suspected of directing illicit tobacco trafficking and associated firebombings from overseas. The AFP said the arrest reflected a shift toward aggressively disrupting offshore crime leaders, even where extradition is uncertain.

>>24119741 Video: Australia’s biggest Nazi group to disband to escape jail ahead of crackdown – Australia’s largest neo-Nazi organisation, the National Socialist Network, has told members it will fully disband by the end of the week to avoid prosecution under the Albanese government’s proposed hate speech and extremist group laws. An internal message from leader Thomas Sewell said all chapters, meetings and online platforms would shut down ahead of legislation that could impose jail terms of up to 15 years for belonging to or supporting outlawed groups. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke has flagged the NSN for listing under the new regime. Extremism experts say the move is a significant setback but warn core members are likely to regroup informally or rebrand. ASIO has cautioned that disbandment does not remove the underlying threat, with individuals expected to remain active and under surveillance.

>>24138373 ‘We’ll be back’: protesters pledge Invasion Day return – (Video) Protesters have vowed to return to Sydney’s streets on January 26 after a rally on First Nations deaths in custody was broken up under NSW’s post-Bondi anti-protest laws. About 200 people gathered at Hyde Park before police issued a move-on order as the crowd attempted to relocate, citing restrictions that ban authorised protests following a declared terrorist attack. Organisers criticised the laws as “authoritarian” but urged compliance to avoid arrests. The protest highlighted concerns that ongoing police declarations, currently extended to January 20, could disrupt Invasion Day rallies. NSW Greens MP Sue Higginson described the turnout as an act of courage, while police said the event dispersed peacefully.

#44 - Part 48

Australian Politics and Society - Part 14

>>24142562 Video: Coalition crisis as One Nation continues popularity surge, eclipses opposition's primary vote in latest Newspoll – One Nation has overtaken the Coalition on primary vote for the first time, as voter dissatisfaction with both major parties deepens. The latest Newspoll shows One Nation at 22 per cent, up seven points in two months, while the Coalition has slumped to a record low 21 per cent, about 10 points below its last election result. The poll reflects ongoing Coalition infighting and weak opposition momentum following the Bondi terror attack, with hopes of a political reset failing to materialise. Labor’s primary vote also fell four points to 32 per cent, though it retains a 55–45 two-party preferred lead. Just 53 per cent of voters now back a major party, the lowest share on record.

>>24147577 Video: Sydney protest ban partially lifted, paving way for January 26 march – NSW Police have partially lifted the month-long ban on protests across Sydney, allowing demonstrations to proceed in parts of the CBD ahead of Australia Day. Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon removed the declaration for central city streets while extending the ban on other Sydney streets, including parts of the eastern suburbs, for a further fortnight. The move enables the annual Invasion Day march to go ahead on January 26, while restrictions remain around areas hosting official Australia Day events and locations linked to the Bondi terror attack. Lanyon said the decision aimed to balance public safety with the right to protest. Police will assess applications for demonstrations over the coming weeks, as legal challenges to the protest laws continue.

>>24152144 Video: Threat of Coalition split as three Nationals quit opposition frontbench – The Coalition has been plunged into fresh turmoil after Opposition Leader Sussan Ley accepted the resignations of three Nationals shadow ministers who defied an agreed Coalition position by voting against Labor’s hate group crackdown. Nationals leader David Littleproud warned that accepting the resignations of Bridget McKenzie, Susan McDonald and Ross Cadell could trigger the resignation of the entire Nationals frontbench, putting the Coalition agreement at risk. Ley said shadow cabinet solidarity was non-negotiable and insisted the Coalition had unanimously agreed to support the amended bill. The dispute has exposed deep divisions between the Liberals and Nationals over party discipline, religious freedom and strategy, as the Coalition struggles with internal instability and mounting pressure from One Nation on its right flank.

>>24156844 Coalition Schism:Nationals leave the Coalition, say Ley put them in untenable position- (Video) The Liberal–National Coalition has formally fractured after Nationals leader David Littleproud withdrew his party from the joint opposition frontbench, declaring it could not serve under Opposition Leader Sussan Ley. The split followed Ley’s decision to accept the resignations of three Nationals shadow ministers who defied an agreed Coalition position on Labor’s hate crimes legislation. Littleproud said Ley’s enforcement of shadow cabinet discipline left the Nationals with no choice but to “sit by ourselves”. Liberals privately accused Littleproud of recklessness, warning the rupture could entrench long-term Labor dominance, while also conceding Ley’s leadership has been severely weakened. Both parties now face destabilising leadership speculation as they scramble to regroup following one of the deepest crises in Coalition history.

>>24165785 ‘Profound insult’: Australian veterans wounded by Trump’s war claims – (Video) Australian politicians and veterans have condemned comments by US President Donald Trump that downplayed the frontline role of allied troops in Afghanistan, calling the remarks “utterly shameful” and a “profound insult”. Trump said NATO partners “stayed back a little” from combat, prompting anger from Australian figures who noted that nearly 40,000 Australians served in Afghanistan between 2001 and 2021, with 47 killed and 263 wounded. Veterans said Australians fought in sustained frontline combat alongside US forces, facing small-arms fire, roadside bombs and rockets. RSL Australia said the comments were “factually wrong” and dismissed the sacrifices of those who served. The remarks were also criticised by leaders in Britain, Poland and NATO.

#44 - Part 49

Australian Politics and Society - Part 15

>>24170674 Greg Moriarty: Defence secretary, former Turnbull aide to become next Australian ambassador to US – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has appointed Defence Department secretary Greg Moriarty as Australia’s next ambassador to the United States, replacing Kevin Rudd, who is stepping down a year early. The choice marks a shift away from recent political appointments, signalling a preference for a senior career official to manage relations with the Trump administration during a volatile period. Moriarty, a former chief of staff to Malcolm Turnbull, has served as ambassador to Iran and Indonesia and overseen the rollout of AUKUS as defence secretary. The appointment has been welcomed by Labor and the Coalition as a “safe pair of hands”, though the Greens criticised his defence procurement record.

>>24175035 Video: PM’s forceful message to new citizens as Australia Day marred by Nazi chants – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has used Australia Day citizenship ceremonies to deliver a blunt message that respect for democracy, shared values and social cohesion is not optional, framing citizenship as both a privilege and a responsibility. His remarks came amid widespread Invasion Day protests and March for Australia rallies that exposed deep divisions over immigration and national identity. Police intervened at several events, including arrests and dispersals, after clashes, brawls and the chanting of extremist slogans. In Sydney, a man was arrested under hate speech laws after making antisemitic remarks and praising neo-Nazi figures, while similar confrontations were reported in Melbourne and Perth. The events unfolded against heightened political tension following the Bondi terror attack and growing debate over migration and extremism.

>>24180069 ‘Brazen and public incitement’: White nationalist refused bail over alleged antisemitic speech – (Video) A 31-year-old man has been refused bail after being charged under newly enacted racial hatred incitement laws over an alleged antisemitic speech delivered at a Sydney Australia Day rally. Police allege Brandan Koschel described Jewish people as the “greatest enemy”, praised neo-Nazi figures and knowingly breached the new laws while addressing a large crowd, with the remarks live-streamed online. Prosecutors argued the conduct amounted to a serious and public risk to the community. The defence said Koschel was not linked to any active extremist group and downplayed the symbolism of his clothing, but the magistrate found there was a real risk of further offending and potential imprisonment. He was remanded in custody to reappear in court on February 3.

>>24180072 Video: Warwick man charged over Perth Invasion Day rally explosive – Police are investigating whether the alleged throwing of a homemade explosive device at an Invasion Day rally in Perth should be treated as terrorism, after a 31-year-old man was charged over an incident that forced the evacuation of about 2000 people from Forrest Place. WA Police say the “rudimentary” device contained ball bearings and screws wrapped around liquid and was a “viable” improvised explosive with the potential to cause mass casualties. Commissioner Col Blanch said terrorism classification depends on whether “political, religious or ideological motivation” is established. The accused has been charged with making or possessing explosives under suspicious circumstances and endangering life, with forensic analysis ongoing and police confident he acted alone.

>>24180073 Crisafulli condemns flag burning, reigniting hate speech debate – Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has condemned the burning of an Australian flag at a Brisbane Invasion Day protest, calling the act “as disgraceful as you get” and urging the federal government to consider outlawing flag burning. He said the act went beyond legitimate protest, describing it as “provocative”, and indicated Queensland would support and police any Commonwealth ban. The incident has revived debate over the scope of hate speech laws, with federal minister Jason Clare warning against turning “yahoos into martyrs” through new offences. While flag burning can already breach public order or property laws, critics cautioned against criminalising political expression, noting longstanding constitutional concerns and past resistance to such bans.

#44 - Part 50

Australian Politics and Society - Part 16

>>24189402 No deal: Angus Taylor and Andrew Hastie at stalemate after summit – Liberal leader Sussan Ley has gained breathing space after conservative rivals Angus Taylor and Andrew Hastie failed to agree on a single leadership challenge following a secret Melbourne meeting with factional powerbrokers. The breakfast talks, involving senior right-wing figures, ended without resolution, leaving Ley’s supporters more confident she can hold on amid a fractured opposition after the Nationals split. MPs expect the deadlock to persist for weeks, with moderates hardening behind Ley and conservatives unable to unify. While some acknowledge either Taylor or Hastie could roll Ley if they aligned, others say the numbers are not yet there and a spill next week is unlikely, prolonging uncertainty inside the Liberal Party.

>>24193580 Hastie pulls out of Liberal leadership race, giving Ley breathing space – Andrew Hastie has withdrawn from a mooted leadership challenge against Sussan Ley, citing a lack of support and a desire to avoid a damaging long-term split within the Liberal Party’s conservative faction. His decision clears the way for Angus Taylor to emerge as the Right’s sole challenger, though any spill is now unlikely in the immediate term. Hastie said he did not have the numbers to lead and chose to step aside after internal deadlock with Taylor threatened to fracture conservatives. The move temporarily strengthens Ley’s position as she manages the fallout from the Nationals split, though internal doubts remain over her tactics and longer-term survival, with a leadership challenge still possible later in the parliamentary sitting.

>>24205831 No proof of life: Police reveal ‘strong belief’ suspected double killer Dezi Freeman is dead – (Video) Victoria Police say they hold a “strong belief” that suspected double police killer Dezi Freeman is deceased, after months without any confirmed sightings or proof of life. More than 100 officers have returned to dense bushland in Mount Buffalo National Park for a targeted five-day search aimed at locating his body. Investigators are acting on corroborated witness evidence of a single gunshot heard about two hours after the fatal ambush in August, with acoustic testing confirming a gunshot echoing through the area at 12.29pm that day. Police believe Freeman likely died in rugged terrain near where he was last known to be staying, but say they remain open to other possibilities as the homicide investigation continues.

>>24210107 Video: Ley left hanging after demands to reform Coalition blindside MPs in both parties - Opposition Leader Sussan Ley’s attempt to avert a prolonged Coalition split has stalled, with Nationals leader David Littleproud declining to immediately engage after Ley proposed suspending three rebel Nationals from the shadow cabinet for six months. Nationals MPs reacted angrily, saying they were “blindsided” after learning details through media reports rather than internal briefings. Littleproud shifted to the backbench as the parties sat separately in parliament, while Labor ministers openly mocked the breakdown. Ley warned that failure to reach agreement could lead to a Liberal-only frontbench, entrenching the divide. Internal frustrations intensified, with critics describing negotiations as a “totally bullshit” process and accusing both parties of hardening positions. Ley remains “very confident” about delivering her May budget reply.

>>24210120 Video: Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews recovering from medical episode - Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews is recovering after what sources describe as a serious “neurological episode” that reportedly affected his movement and speech, with his condition said to be improving through intensive rehabilitation following treatment late last year. Andrews has remained largely out of public view, but recent controversies have kept his name in circulation, including a controversial visit to China that drew sweeping condemnation after he appeared at a Beijing military parade. He also remains entangled in legal disputes stemming from the long-running “bike boy” incident, with defamation and civil proceedings continuing. His absence from public acknowledgement of former adviser Tim Picton’s death further heightened concern among political observers.

#44 - Part 51

Australian Politics and Society - Part 17

>>24210143 Video: Jacob Hersant, Nathan Bull: Neo-Nazis accused of Ku Klux Klan, black face Halloween act - Two Melbourne men linked to the former National Socialist Network, Jacob Hersant and Nathan Bull, face charges of engaging in grossly offensive public conduct and conduct likely to incite serious contempt following an alleged Halloween incident in 2024. Police allege Hersant was filmed dressed as a Ku Klux Klan Klansman while Bull appeared in blackface with a noose, with the pair accused of abusing members of the public. Only Hersant attended the latest Melbourne Magistrates Court hearing, prompting a warrant for Bull’s arrest. The court was told a 570-page brief of evidence had been prepared. Hersant indicated he would plead not guilty. Separate proceedings continue over Hersant’s prior conviction for performing a Nazi salute, with further appeals flagged.

>>24214747 Melbourne neo-Nazi Jacob Hersant jailed over Nazi salute outside court - Victorian extremist figure Jacob Hersant has been sentenced to one month in jail after performing a Nazi salute outside the Melbourne County Court in October 2023, becoming the first person in Australia imprisoned for the banned gesture. The salute, delivered in front of television cameras alongside remarks referencing Adolf Hitler, occurred shortly after Hersant avoided custody in an unrelated violent disorder case. His conviction and sentence were upheld on appeal, with the County Court rejecting arguments that the act was not a Nazi salute and that the laws were unconstitutional. Judge Simon Moglia ruled the legislation imposed a valid burden on political communication. Prosecutors argued the conduct was calculated and contemptuous. Hersant was also fined for breaching a community corrections order and has indicated he will appeal to the High Court.

>>24218887 ‘Motivated by hate’: Perth Invasion Day rally attempted bombing declared an act of terror - (Video) Authorities have formally declared the attempted bombing of a Perth Invasion Day rally a terrorist act, alleging the accused 31-year-old man was driven by “hateful, racist ideology”. Police claim the man threw a homemade explosive device filled with screws and ball bearings into a crowd of about 2500 protesters in Perth’s CBD on January 26, but it failed to detonate. Officials said the device could have caused a “mass casualty event” had it exploded. The charge of engaging in a terrorist act, the first laid in Western Australia, carries a potential life sentence. Investigators allege the man self-radicalised online, accessing “pro-white material”. Leaders condemned the incident as politically motivated violence, while debate continued over the time taken to apply terrorism laws.

>>24223355 Video: Australia and Indonesia sign new security treaty - paving way for joint military training and deeper defence co-operation - Australia and Indonesia have signed a new bilateral security treaty in Jakarta, committing both nations to regular high-level consultations and consideration of joint responses to shared security challenges. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the agreement marked the strongest phase of relations between the neighbours and confirmed Australia would assist in developing a joint military training centre in Indonesia, alongside expanded officer exchanges and defence co-operation. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto described the pact as consistent with Indonesia’s “free and active” foreign policy. Indonesian officials emphasised the treaty does not constitute a collective defence arrangement. Analysts said the consultation framework could elevate Australia’s strategic standing in regional crises, while Indonesia reiterated its non-aligned posture amid ongoing ties with major powers including China and Russia.

>>24227906 US prosecutors seek 46-month sentence for conspiracy theorist linked to Wieambilla killers - United States prosecutors are seeking a 46-month prison sentence for Arizona man Donald Day, a conspiracy theorist who communicated online with the perpetrators of the 2022 Wieambilla shootings. Day pleaded guilty to possessing firearms as a felon under a plea agreement that saw other federal charges dropped. Court filings allege Day exchanged messages of support with the Trains and used rhetoric referencing violence against law enforcement. Authorities said nine firearms and about 10,000 rounds of ammunition were seized at his arrest. Prosecutors cited Day’s criminal history and argued the sentence falls within federal guidelines. The Wieambilla attack killed Queensland police officers Rachel McCrow and Matthew Arnold, along with neighbour Alan Dare, before the offenders were shot dead by police.

#44 - Part 52

Australian Politics and Society - Part 18

>>24231295 ‘It looked ugly’: Coalition reunited after 17-day split - (Video) Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and Nationals leader David Littleproud have reunited the Coalition after a 17-day split triggered by disputes over shadow cabinet solidarity and frontbench resignations. Ley said “we did have differences” but “we’ve resolved those differences” and would move forward as a “united Coalition”. Littleproud acknowledged the breakdown “wasn’t perfect” and “looked ugly”, describing the reconciliation as an act of “leadership” and “courage”. Under the renewed agreement, Nationals shadow ministers will remain off the frontbench for a cumulative six-week period before returning to roles on March 1. Both parties committed to stricter solidarity rules, including a formal decisions register and written undertakings. The reunion followed internal pressure within the Liberals and negotiations over suspensions, with both leaders insisting the partnership was stabilised.

>>24235848 Video: Taylor backs Coalition revamp and explores a spill against Ley this week - Liberal leadership contender Angus Taylor has publicly backed the Coalition’s reunification while allies weigh a potential leadership challenge against Opposition Leader Sussan Ley. The restored Liberal–Nationals agreement follows concessions from Ley and Nationals leader David Littleproud after a 17-day split triggered by internal disputes over shadow cabinet solidarity. Taylor said he was “happy the Coalition is back together” but declined to comment on leadership speculation. Despite Ley expressing confidence of “overwhelming support” in her party room, internal tensions persist, with some Liberal MPs frustrated by the compromise. Party polling and strategic positioning ahead of parliament have intensified manoeuvring, while senior Liberals debate the timing and optics of any leadership move. Observers note the Coalition truce may reshape internal numbers as both camps assess stability and electoral risks.

>>24240263 Video: Wells demands urgent meeting with Roblox over child exploitation reports - Communications Minister Anika Wells has demanded an urgent meeting with Roblox after reports that children were exposed to grooming and sexual exploitation on the gaming platform. Wells said she held “grave concern” about persistent safety failures, despite Roblox avoiding Australia’s under-16 social media ban by being classified primarily as a gaming service. She has sought details on age-assurance measures, controls on “high-impact” content and restrictions on adult-child interactions, while also asking the Classification Board to review the platform’s PG rating. Roblox said it would co-operate, citing “robust safety policies” and new protections, including default chat limits and tighter rules for adult contact with minors. eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant warned compliance would be tested, with potential penalties of up to $49.5m for breaches.

>>24243853 AFP releases images of tobacco kingpin Kazem Hamad in Iraqi custody - The Australian Federal Police has published two images said to show alleged tobacco war figure Kazem “Kaz” Hamad detained at a secret Iraqi location, marking the first official update since Baghdad authorities announced his arrest. Hamad, long linked by investigators to violent offences tied to the illicit tobacco trade, appears in yellow prison clothing holding an Arabic placard listing personal and prosecution details. While media outlets noted anomalies in one image that raised authenticity questions, the AFP said it had not altered the photographs and was unaware of any manipulation. Commissioner Krissy Barrett said Hamad’s detention would not halt Operation Carmen, describing his syndicate as a national threat with a near-nationwide footprint. Authorities allege the network has driven arsons, extortion and shootings, adding the group has begun fracturing amid leadership turmoil following Hamad’s capture.

>>24243862 Video: Iraqi mugshot of Kaz Hamad featured digitally altered background - Iraqi authorities digitally added a height chart to a custody mugshot of alleged tobacco syndicate figure Kazem “Kaz” Hamad before providing it to the Australian Federal Police, prompting scrutiny over measurement inconsistencies. The AFP said it did not alter the image and separately released another photograph showing Hamad in yellow prison clothing without the chart. Commissioner Krissy Barrett said Hamad’s January arrest in Iraq had disrupted his network but stressed Operation Carmen would continue targeting associates. Investigators say the syndicate, linked to violence and arson in the illicit tobacco trade, is showing signs of internal strain following the loss of leadership.

#44 - Part 53

Australian Politics and Society - Part 19

>>24243878 Australia’s online safety commissioner stares down US Congress threats - Australia’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant has engaged private legal counsel as US House Judiciary Committee chair Jim Jordan intensifies efforts to compel her testimony in Washington over Australia’s online safety regime. Appearing at Senate estimates, Inman Grant described the summons as an “unprecedented request” by a foreign legislature and said DFAT and senior officials were coordinating a whole-of-government response. Jordan has criticised her enforcement actions and labelled her approach hostile to American free speech. Inman Grant rejected claims of targeting US firms, stating she implements laws passed by the Australian parliament. Estimates also heard the regulator’s external legal costs have risen sharply this financial year.

>>24248794 Angus Taylor quits frontbench to take on Sussan Ley for the Liberal Party leadership - (Video) Angus Taylor has resigned from the Coalition frontbench, declaring he lacks confidence in Sussan Ley’s capacity to rebuild Liberal support and triggering expectations of a leadership spill by Friday. “We need to urgently restore confidence in the Liberal Party,” Taylor said, arguing Ley was “not in a position to be able to lead the party, as it needs to be led from here.” Ley responded: “He did not challenge for the leadership. He simply tendered his resignation.” Backers claimed Taylor “had the numbers”, while Ley’s allies conceded the contest was close. Labor seized on the turmoil, with Jim Chalmers accusing Taylor of “failing upwards” and quipping he was “born with a silver foot in his mouth.” Moderates urged dissidents to sign a petition to force a spill.

>>24248798 Taylor poised to become Liberal leader as Ley backers lose hope - Momentum has swung decisively towards Angus Taylor ahead of a 9am Liberal Party room meeting, with multiple members of Sussan Ley’s shadow ministry resigning and declaring no confidence in her leadership. Unaligned MPs shifted after concluding Ley failed to outline a credible recovery from dire polling. James Paterson warned that 2.1 million voters had deserted the Coalition in nine months, saying: “This cannot go on.” Ley’s allies privately lamented the rejection of a proposed orderly transition, arguing a coup could have been avoided. Taylor vowed not to trade promotions for support, declaring: “Australia is worth fighting for … we’re running out of time.” Labor ministers targeted Taylor in question time as the effective opposition leader.

>>24253451 Angus Taylor elected new Liberal Party leader, Jane Hume deputy - (Video) Angus Taylor has been elected Liberal leader, defeating Sussan Ley 34–17, declaring a “change or die” moment and vowing to rebuild around home ownership, middle-class wealth and tighter migration. Jane Hume won the deputy ballot 30–20 over Ted O’Brien, becoming the first Senate deputy leader in decades. Ley immediately triggered a by-election by resigning from her NSW seat of Farrer, exiting politics “completely and comprehensively”. Taylor used his first address to criticise “bad migration”, arguing numbers were too high and the “door must be shut” to migrants rejecting Australian values. Anthony Albanese attacked Taylor’s economic record, while One Nation confirmed it would contest Farrer. Malcolm Turnbull criticised Taylor’s elevation, whereas Tony Abbott endorsed him. Taylor also signalled opposition to Labor’s universal childcare expansion as part of a broader policy reset.

>>24260370 Video: Daniel Andrews claims ‘bike boy’ defamation case is politically motivated – Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews and his wife Catherine Andrews contend Federal Court defamation proceedings brought by Ryan Meuleman were launched for "collateral purposes", alleging the action is aimed at attracting media attention and inflicting reputational damage. Meuleman, who was 15 when seriously injured in a 2013 Blairgowrie collision involving the Andrews family vehicle driven by Catherine Andrews, argues a 2024 public statement implied he was dishonest and motivated by financial gain. The Andrews defence says Victoria Police and integrity bodies previously cleared the couple, rejects assertions of a cover-up, and maintains their statement was a proportionate response to conspiracy allegations. The filings also reference contested damages claims and the involvement of Meuleman supporters.

#44 - Part 54

Australian Politics and Society - Part 20

>>24260424 US man jailed over links to Wieambilla police shooting deaths – An Arizona court has sentenced Donald Day to 36 months’ imprisonment following a US federal investigation into his online contact with Gareth, Nathaniel and Stacey Train prior to the 2022 Wieambilla ambush that killed Queensland police constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow, and neighbour Alan Dare. Day, who used the alias “Geronimo’s Bones”, pleaded guilty to possessing firearms as a convicted felon under a plea agreement that saw other charges, including threats and weapons offences, dropped. The court heard Day exchanged conspiratorial and extremist material with the Trains on YouTube and made violent statements referencing confrontation with authorities. Defence lawyers argued the Trains’ shared psychotic disorders – not Day’s communications – drove the attack. Day received credit for time served, was ordered to forfeit firearms and ammunition, and will be subject to supervised release after completing his sentence.

>>24264418 Revealed: Outlawed neo-Nazis urge followers to form secret cells – Extremist groups are seeking to regroup after Australia’s post-Bondi anti-hate reforms, with figures tied to the National Socialist Network urging supporters to “network and build community”, produce propaganda, and “stand back and stand by” while funnelling recruits toward the March for Australia movement. An online forum reportedly canvassed “legally permitted” ways to reorganise and maintain training networks despite the organisation’s claimed disbandment. Hizb ut-Tahrir Australia also resurfaced publicly as a signatory to a joint statement criticising NSW police actions at recent protests, even as the government flagged it as a candidate for prohibition under new hate-group laws. Authorities say the legislation targets leadership, recruitment, funding, and membership of groups promoting hatred, with significant jail terms available. Federal agencies continue monitoring compliance and extremist activity.

>>24269013 Video: Angus Taylor reveals shadow ministry, elevating Andrew Hastie and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price – Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has unveiled a reshaped shadow ministry, promoting prominent right-faction figures and restoring Nationals members following the Coalition’s reunion. Andrew Hastie takes on industry and sovereign capability, while Jacinta Nampijinpa Price assumes skills, training and small business. Tim Wilson has been elevated to shadow treasurer, and Jane Hume will oversee employment, industrial relations, productivity and deregulation. Several Taylor allies secured senior roles, including Claire Chandler in finance and James Paterson in defence. Ted O’Brien shifts to foreign affairs and Michaelia Cash becomes shadow attorney-general. Ley supporters including Alex Hawke and Melissa Price were moved to the backbench, signalling a decisive post-leadership reset. Taylor said the lineup blends experience with “next generation” talent and emphasised unity, productivity and prosecuting Labor’s record.

>>24269031 Video: Perth Invasion Day rally: Man accused of attempted terror bombing named – A court has lifted a suppression order concealing the identity of the man accused of attempting to bomb an Invasion Day rally in Perth, identifying him as Liam Hall, 32. Police allege Hall travelled from Warwick to the CBD on Australia Day and threw a homemade explosive packed with ball bearings and nails into a crowd of protesters; the device failed to detonate due to a faulty fuse. The court heard Hall has previously been diagnosed with autism, though further medical details were not disclosed. Prosecutors and media organisations successfully argued for open justice, rejecting claims that mental health concerns justified anonymity. Authorities also cited risks of online misidentification under continued suppression. Hall was later charged with engaging in a terrorist act, the first such charge in Western Australia. He remains in custody and is due back in court in March.

>>24272844 Premier polishes pitch to lure Trump to Australia – Queensland Premier David Crisafulli has intensified efforts to host a future Quad summit in Brisbane, arguing it could bring US President Donald Trump to Australia and showcase the state ahead of the 2032 Olympics. Addressing the National Press Club, Crisafulli said Queensland was well placed to stage the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue between Australia, the United States, Japan and India, framing it as both a strategic and commercial opportunity. He highlighted Queensland’s critical minerals sector as vital to US defence supply chains, warning America was overly reliant on less stable jurisdictions. India is due to host the next summit, with Australia expected to follow. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has indicated support for Queensland’s bid.

#44 - Part 55

Australian Politics and Society - Part 21

>>24276492 Brandan Koschel jailed over antisemitic speech at Sydney Australia Day protest – A Sydney court has sentenced Brandan Koschel to 12 months’ imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to publicly inciting racial hatred during an Australia Day protest at Moore Park. The 31-year-old delivered a 40-second speech during an open mic session that the court found was clearly antisemitic and directed at the Jewish community. Deputy Chief Magistrate Sharon Freund said the offending was motivated by hate, occurred before several hundred people and risked republication, warranting a custodial sentence to deter others. She noted the vulnerability of the Jewish community following the Bondi terrorist attack and said Koschel had shown no remorse. The sentence was reduced by 25 per cent for his guilty plea and backdated to time served. He is eligible for parole in October.

>>24276522 Video: Man charged with terrorism offences after routine Sydney traffic stop – A 31-year-old Sydney man, Abdallah El Chami, has been charged with terrorism-related offences after police allegedly found violent extremist material on a mobile phone seized during a traffic stop in Yagoona on December 31. Officers initially charged him with drug supply, dealing with proceeds of crime and vehicle offences before granting conditional bail on January 1. Subsequent forensic examination of the phones, assisted by the Counter Terrorism & Special Tactics Command, allegedly uncovered extremist material. Police executed a search warrant at a Bass Hill home, seizing additional devices and a knife. El Chami was charged with using a carriage service to possess violent extremist material and a weapons offence. He was granted strict bail, including house arrest, reporting obligations and internet restrictions.

>>24290728 Oscar winner Tom Hanks spotted taking selfies with fans while riding Sydney’s Metro - Hollywood actor Tom Hanks has been spotted riding Sydney’s Metro and posing for selfies with fellow passengers while visiting Australia to film a sequel to the 2020 naval drama Greyhound. The 69-year-old actor was seen standing on the train wearing dark sunglasses and a bucket hat as fans recognised him and took photos. Hanks appeared relaxed and “welcomed the attention”, stopping to pose for selfies before reaching his stop. The Oscar winner has been seen frequently around Sydney in recent weeks, including visiting a cricket store in North Sydney with his son Truman. Hanks is in Australia filming the Apple TV sequel to Greyhound, which became one of the platform’s most successful films. - https://qresear.ch/?q=Tom+Hanks

>>24295317 Video: New $1.5 billion, six-star Trump hotel confirmed for Gold Coast will be Australia's tallest building - Developers have confirmed plans for a $1.5 billion Trump International Hotel & Tower at Surfers Paradise on Queensland’s Gold Coast, a project expected to become Australia’s tallest building. Altus Property Group says the 91-storey tower will rise 340 metres on vacant land at Rickett Street and include a six-star hotel, 272 luxury residences, retail outlets and a private beach club. Chief executive David Young said the project would be funded by private investors from Singapore, Hong Kong, the United Arab Emirates and the United States. If completed as planned, the tower would exceed the Gold Coast’s Q1 building at 322 metres, currently the tallest structure in Australia.

>>24300059 Australian ‘alpha male’ Nick Adams dumped as Trump’s ambassador to Malaysia - United States President Donald Trump has withdrawn the nomination of Australian-American commentator Nick Adams as ambassador to Malaysia after the appointment failed to secure Senate confirmation. Adams, a former Ashfield councillor and prominent supporter of Trump, said he had instead been “promoted” to another role that would be announced soon, though the White House has not confirmed this. His nomination had attracted criticism in Malaysia due to past comments about Islam and the Palestinian cause. Adams moved to the United States after his time in local politics and became a naturalised citizen and conservative commentator. Trump has also yet to nominate a new United States ambassador to Australia more than a year into his presidency.

#44 - Part 56

Australian Politics and Society - Part 22

>>24300076 Ukraine offers ‘modern warfare’ training to ADF - Ukraine has offered to train Australian Defence Force personnel in “modern warfare”, citing its battlefield experience against Russia and advances in drone and electronic warfare. Ukraine’s ambassador to Australia, Vasyl Myroshnychenko, said Ukrainian forces could help teach Australian troops how to operate in conflicts shaped by drones and rapid technological adaptation. He said Ukraine had become “the most powerful army in Europe” through its combat experience and was already training troops from Germany and Poland. Analysts say the ADF could learn from Ukraine’s tactics in drone production, counter-drone operations and battlefield innovation. The offer comes as Ukraine seeks continued Australian military support, including more Bushmaster armoured vehicles and regular financial contributions to Kyiv’s war effort.

>>24305703 eSafety Commissioner faces review after court rules takedown notices were unlawful - The federal opposition has called for a review of eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant’s use of social media takedown notices after the Full Court of the Federal Court ruled the regulator acted outside its powers in seeking removal of a post on X. The case involved criticism by children’s rights activist Celine Baumgarten of gender ideology being taught to primary school students. The court upheld findings that the commissioner’s “complaint alert” to the platform, which resembled a formal legal order, was a reviewable action despite being issued informally. Coalition communications spokeswoman Sarah Henderson said the government should investigate how many removal notices may have been issued beyond the regulator’s legal authority and whether free speech had been improperly restricted.

>>24305708 Australian man Peter Williams given 7 years' jail for selling US trade secrets to Russian broker - A United States court has sentenced former Australian intelligence official Peter Williams to 87 months in prison for selling sensitive cyber tools developed by a US defence contractor to a Russian broker. Williams, 39, previously worked for the Australian Signals Directorate before becoming a general manager at L3Harris subsidiary Trenchant in Washington DC. Prosecutors said he sold eight trade secrets involving powerful hacking and surveillance capabilities that could have allowed access to millions of digital devices. US authorities said Williams received cryptocurrency payments and was ordered to forfeit $US1.3 million along with property and luxury items. Officials said the exploits were sold to Operation Zero, a broker whose clients include the Russian government.

>>24314252 ‘I hope I have paved the way’: Dumped Liberal leader Sussan Ley resigns, triggering critical byelection - (Video) Former Liberal leader Sussan Ley has resigned from parliament, triggering a high-stakes byelection in the regional NSW seat of Farrer and an early political test for new opposition leader Angus Taylor. Ley stepped down two weeks after being removed from the Liberal leadership, reflecting on her tenure as the first woman to lead the federal Liberal Party and expressing hope she had “paved the way” for others. The contest is expected to draw candidates from the Liberals, Nationals and One Nation, with two prominent independents also considering runs. One Nation, backed by mining billionaire Gina Rinehart, plans a major campaign, while the Nationals are pursuing a grassroots strategy. Farrer has been held by Coalition parties since its creation in 1949.

>>24334245 Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to push his middle power strategy during Australia visit - Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has arrived in Sydney as part of an Indo-Pacific tour aimed at strengthening trade, investment and strategic partnerships with fellow “middle powers”. During his visit he will meet Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, address the Australian parliament - the first Canadian leader to do so in nearly two decades - and speak at the Lowy Institute about shifts in the global order. Talks are expected to focus on defence and maritime security, critical minerals, artificial intelligence and expanded trade. The visit follows Carney’s trip to India, where he secured major investment agreements. Both leaders are expected to discuss growing geopolitical tensions, including the fallout from US strikes on Iran, while exploring closer economic and security cooperation between the two Commonwealth partners.

#44 - Part 57

Australian Politics and Society - Part 23

>>24338605 Ukraine MPs urge Australian help for rebuilding efforts - Ukrainian MPs visiting Canberra have urged Australia to increase involvement in rebuilding Ukraine and to deepen defence and technology cooperation as the war with Russia enters its fifth year. A delegation met Australian ministers, politicians and business leaders to discuss reconstruction opportunities and investment in sectors including defence technology. Ukrainian ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko said Australian companies could participate in rebuilding efforts while benefiting commercially, and suggested Canberra appoint a special envoy to coordinate reconstruction engagement. He said Ukraine’s wartime technological developments could also help Australia strengthen its sovereign defence capabilities through local production partnerships. Ukrainian MPs described the human toll of the conflict, noting most families had suffered losses, while also highlighting declining Australian military assistance despite the earlier supply of Bushmaster vehicles and broader support.

>>24343279 Middle powers must unite or be ‘on the menu’, Canada’s leader tells Australia - (Video) Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged Australia to join Canada in building stronger partnerships among “middle powers” to avoid being dominated by great powers, warning the international system has undergone a decisive “rupture”. Speaking in Sydney ahead of a historic address to the Australian parliament, Carney said countries like Canada and Australia should cooperate more closely on artificial intelligence, critical minerals, space communications and semiconductors to protect economic and strategic sovereignty. He warned that negotiating individually with powerful states such as the United States risked leaving middle powers vulnerable to coercion through tariffs, financial systems and supply chains. Carney said deeper cooperation with trusted partners offered opportunities to build resilience and prosperity, with agreements on defence, investment and critical minerals expected during his visit.

>>24343285 ‘The world needs us’: Carney pushes Australia and Canada to deepen trade, defence ties - (Video) Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged Australia to significantly deepen defence and economic cooperation, arguing that “middle powers” must work together to avoid domination by larger global powers. Speaking in Sydney ahead of a rare joint address to the Australian parliament, Carney proposed stronger military integration including a visiting forces agreement that would allow Australian and Canadian troops to operate more freely from each other’s bases. Canadian ministers also called for closer cooperation on intelligence sharing, joint military exercises and defence technology. Carney said countries like Canada and Australia should form a “dense web of connections” to strengthen sovereignty and economic resilience. Talks are also expected to focus on critical minerals processing and supply chains as both nations seek to reduce dependence on dominant global powers.

>>24343296 Canadian PM Mark Carney urges new ‘trusted coalitions’ across critical minerals, defence, AI - (Video) Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has urged Australia and Canada to build deeper “trusted coalitions” across defence, critical minerals and emerging technologies to strengthen strategic autonomy amid a fractured global order. Addressing a rare joint sitting of the Australian parliament, Carney described the two nations as “strategic cousins” and called for middle powers to collaborate more closely rather than compete. He proposed expanded cooperation on critical minerals processing, space communications, artificial intelligence and defence technology, building on recent agreements such as Canada’s purchase of Australian over-the-horizon radar systems. Carney argued trusted partnerships between middle powers could provide resilience against pressure from dominant global powers, while Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed closer ties and highlighted the longstanding friendship and shared democratic values between the two countries.

#44 - Part 58

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 1

>>23860375 US justice department investigates Epstein's alleged ties to Clinton and banks after Trump request - The US Department of Justice will investigate Jeffrey Epstein’s alleged links to major banks and senior Democrats after President Donald Trump said he asked Attorney General Pam Bondi and the FBI to review Epstein’s “involvement and relationship” with Bill Clinton and others. The move followed the release of thousands of Epstein emails, many mentioning Trump, prompting Democrats to accuse him of trying to “deflect” from scrutiny of his own ties. A House vote on releasing Department of Justice files has been triggered by a discharge petition signed by Democrat Adelita Grijalva and four Republicans. Epstein survivors and the family of Virginia Giuffre urged lawmakers to back disclosure, telling Congress to “imagine if they had been preyed upon” and warning they would “remember your decision at the ballot box.”

>>23860385 ‘Be brave’: Victims urge lawmakers to support release of Epstein files - The family of Virginia Giuffre has joined more than a dozen survivors in urging lawmakers to vote for the release of all unclassified Epstein files, ahead of a House vote on a bill requiring the Department of Justice to publish records tied to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell. Giuffre’s family says disclosure is essential for “identifying everyone involved” and ending what they describe as a “double standard of justice” that has allowed powerful figures to avoid consequences. The letter calls on Congress to “embody Virginia’s courage” and “be brave” when voting. The vote was triggered by a discharge petition signed by Democrats and several Republicans, despite President Donald Trump warning his party the bill is a “trap.”

>>23864532 ‘We have nothing to hide’: Trump says Epstein files should be released - (Video) US President Donald Trump has reversed course and urged Republicans to vote for releasing the Epstein files, saying he has “nothing to hide” and complaining the issue is distracting from his accomplishments. Trump said Congress should receive whatever material it is “legally entitled to”, but some lawmakers warn that new investigations he has ordered into Jeffrey Epstein’s links with prominent Democrats, including Bill Clinton, could restrict what can be disclosed. Representative Thomas Massie said ongoing probes could create a “smokescreen” limiting release, though he expects a “deluge” of Republican support for the bill. Epstein survivors and accusers, including Annie Farmer, say secrecy has protected powerful figures for decades and releasing the remaining documents would help “correct that imbalance.”

>>23873264 Video: US Senate passes bill to release Epstein files in win for defiant Republicans - The US Congress has overwhelmingly passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, requiring the release of all unclassified documents from the Epstein-Maxwell investigation. Clay Higgins, a Republican from Louisiana, was the only House member to vote against the bill. The vote marks a major victory for victims and for the small group of Republicans - Marjorie Taylor Greene, Lauren Boebert, Nancy Mace and Thomas Massie - who defied the Trump White House and forced the vote through a discharge petition. Greene said the issue had "ripped MAGA apart". Victims urged Congress to reject politicisation, with Jena-Lisa Jones calling Trump's earlier stance a "national embarrassment". Sky Roberts said his sister, Virginia Roberts Giuffre, would be "incredibly proud" of the result. The bill now goes to Trump for signing.

>>23873275 Kevin Rudd calls in the lawyers over mention in email to Jeffrey Epstein released by the US Congress - opening up his diary to prove 'cocktail party' never happened - Kevin Rudd has engaged a defamation lawyer after an unpublished draft of a Michael Wolff magazine article, emailed by Wolff to Jeffrey Epstein in 2015, claimed Rudd attended a cocktail party at Epstein’s home. Rudd’s spokesperson called the account “utterly false”, saying his diary shows three documented events on 22 September 2014 and no record or invitation for any Epstein gathering. Photos from those events were provided. Wolff dismissed the draft as never intended for publication. Additional documents show journalists later contacted Epstein to fact-check the draft’s claims. Rudd says he has “no recollection whatsoever” of meeting Epstein, though he was once involved in a conference call attended by Epstein in 2014, and attended another event Epstein was invited to in 2013.

#44 - Part 59

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 2

>>23877951 Trump signs bill authorising release of Epstein files - (Video) Donald Trump has signed the Epstein Files Transparency Act, giving Attorney-General Pam Bondi 30 days to release all Department of Justice files on Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell in publicly accessible, downloadable form. Trump announced the move on Truth Social, claiming the release would “backfire on the Democrats” and accusing them of using Epstein to distract from his achievements. After months opposing disclosure, he abruptly reversed course, helping drive the bill’s overwhelming passage, 427-1. Trump said Epstein was a “lifelong Democrat” and asserted that Democrats, not Republicans, had the most to fear from the files. Senate Democrat Chuck Schumer demanded “full unredacted files” and vowed continued pressure. Bondi said the administration would comply with the law while protecting victims. Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna, whose discharge petition forced the vote, said survivors had “won”.

>>23877973 Jeffrey Epstein asked for Katherine Keating’s number in newly released emails - Newly released 2011 emails show Jeffrey Epstein asked Katherine Keating for her phone number and location months after requesting that former prince Andrew arrange a dinner with her. Emails from the House Oversight Committee show Ms Keating shared the foreword to Paul Keating’s book 'After Words' with Epstein and others, signing off “Katherine X”. Epstein replied, “Are you here?”, later adding, “Send me your phone number.” Separate messages show Epstein asking Andrew to invite Ms Keating to dinner with Woody Allen, with Andrew later saying he was “on the Keating case”. Ms Keating said the dinner was a large social event with prominent media figures. There is no suggestion she was involved in or aware of any criminal conduct.

>>23895400 UK police investigate Andrew’s ex-close protection officers over Virginia Giuffre – British police are examining whether former close protection officers for Prince Andrew improperly sought personal information about Virginia Giuffre, following emails suggesting the Duke asked for checks on her background. The Metropolitan Police are seeking emails, phone records and notebooks from officers assigned to Andrew to determine whether misconduct occurred. The inquiry relates to a 2011 email in which Andrew referred to providing Giuffre’s details to a protection officer. Giuffre’s family says she had no criminal record. The investigation comes amid renewed scrutiny of Andrew’s links to Jeffrey Epstein and follows Giuffre’s death earlier this year. Police say they are assessing whether further review or action is required.

>>23904324 Virginia Giuffre’s family at war over who gets Andrew’s multimillion-dollar payout – The family of Virginia Giuffre is preparing for a Supreme Court battle in Western Australia over her multimillion-dollar estate after she died intestate in April. Giuffre, 41, accumulated wealth through victim compensation funds and civil settlements, including an estimated $12 million payout from Prince Andrew, who denies wrongdoing. Her estranged husband, Robert Giuffre, may be legally entitled to a share, despite claims she wanted him excluded. Her half-brothers, Sky Roberts and Danny Wilson, are also seeking a portion and control of her unfinished charity, Speak Out, Act, Reclaim. Her two eldest children, Christian and Noah, have been appointed estate administrators. Disputes also extend to conflicting accounts of her death and family tensions over public statements.

>>23921130 Video: Legal battle begins over Virginia Giuffre’s multi-million-dollar estate – A legal dispute has begun in Western Australia over the estate of Virginia Giuffre, who died in April without a will. Her sons, Christian and Noah Giuffre, have applied to administer the estate, while her lawyer Karrie Loudon and former carer Cheryl Myers have lodged a counterclaim arguing Giuffre left an informal handwritten will appointing them as executors. The court raised concerns that Giuffre’s estranged husband, Robert Giuffre, should also be involved, given his potential entitlement. The estate includes assets in Western Australia and funds linked to settlements with Jeffrey Epstein and Prince Andrew. An interim administrator has been appointed as proceedings continue.

#44 - Part 60

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 3

>>23930028 ‘His name shall be erased’: Andrew stripped of last remaining royal titles – King Charles has formally stripped Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor of his final royal honours, cancelling his membership of the Order of the Garter and annulling his status as a Knight Grand Cross of the Royal Victorian Order. The decision, published in The Gazette, states his appointment “shall be cancelled and annulled” and his name “erased” from the register. Andrew had already lost his HRH style and ducal titles following scrutiny over his association with Jeffrey Epstein. The move follows renewed political pressure and comes as British police review aspects of his conduct. The King’s decision removes Andrew from all royal orders, further severing his formal ties to the monarchy.

>>23939229 Ghislaine Maxwell to ask court to free her from prison – Ghislaine Maxwell has signalled she will seek her release from prison, with court filings showing she plans to file a habeas petition challenging her detention. Lawyers for the former associate of Jeffrey Epstein said she does not oppose the government’s bid to unseal grand jury records under new legislation, but warned that releasing the material could prejudice any potential retrial. Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence for helping Epstein sexually abuse underage girls. The filing follows passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, which directs the Justice Department to release case materials. Prosecutors are seeking court approval to do so, while Maxwell’s legal team argues disclosure could undermine due process if her challenge succeeds.

>>23951100 Virginia Giuffre’s estate is ‘worth $311,000’. Where are Andrew’s millions? – Court filings in Western Australia show the estate of Virginia Giuffre is valued at about $312,000, despite her receiving multimillion-dollar settlements linked to Jeffrey Epstein and Prince Andrew. Giuffre, who died in April, had received at least $12 million from Andrew and further compensation through Epstein-related settlements. Her sons have lodged court documents stating the estate includes limited assets, while lawyers for other parties dispute that claim, pointing to property holdings, trusts and potential royalties from her memoir. The case centres on whether settlement funds were transferred, spent or held in trust, and whether an informal will reflects Giuffre’s intentions. Competing claims from family members and associates are before the court, with further hearings scheduled for February.

>>23951125 Virginia Giuffre’s family ask: “Where are her missing millions?” – The family of Virginia Giuffre has raised questions over the whereabouts of millions of dollars she received in compensation linked to Jeffrey Epstein, after court filings in Western Australia valued her estate at about $472,000. Giuffre, who died in April, had received multiple settlements, including an estimated $12 million from Prince Andrew, as well as payments from Epstein and from a civil settlement involving Ghislaine Maxwell. Her sons, Christian and Noah Giuffre, are seeking control of the estate, while competing claims have been lodged by her estranged husband, Robert Giuffre, and by her lawyer Karrie Louden and carer Cheryl Myers. Disputed assets include properties, trust funds, and potential royalties from her memoir. The case centres on an alleged informal will, trust arrangements and whether funds were spent or transferred. Further hearings are scheduled.

>>23964405 Justice department can release Ghislaine Maxwell court materials, judge says – A US federal judge has cleared the Justice Department to release extensive investigative records from the sex-trafficking cases of Ghislaine Maxwell and Jeffrey Epstein, following passage of the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Judge Paul A. Engelmayer ruled that grand jury transcripts, search warrants, financial records and investigative materials may be made public within 10 days, subject to redactions protecting victims. The ruling follows similar approval by a Florida judge and expands disclosure tied to Epstein’s network. The Justice Department said the law, signed by President Donald Trump, requires transparency. Maxwell, convicted in 2021 and serving a 20-year sentence, was a longtime associate of Epstein, who died in custody in 2019.

#44 - Part 61

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 4

>>23996442 Video: Imprisoned Jeffrey Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell seeks release, citing ‘new evidence’ – Ghislaine Maxwell has asked a US federal court to overturn her 2021 sex-trafficking conviction and release her from a 20-year prison sentence, arguing that newly uncovered evidence shows her trial was fundamentally unfair. In a habeas corpus petition filed in New York, Maxwell claims constitutional violations occurred, including the withholding of exculpatory evidence and the presentation of false testimony, which she says resulted in a “complete miscarriage of justice”. The filing comes days before the release of extensive Epstein-related records under the Epstein Files Transparency Act, signed by President Donald Trump, which mandates public disclosure of investigative materials. Maxwell’s lawyers argue that releasing those records could prejudice any retrial if her conviction is overturned. Prosecutors say the materials do not identify anyone other than Epstein and Maxwell as having had sexual contact with minors. Maxwell was convicted in 2021 for recruiting and grooming girls for Epstein and has been imprisoned since 2022.

>>24201399 Trump’s Justice Department releases final cache of Epstein files - (Video) The US Justice Department has released a final tranche of Epstein-related records, publishing more than three million pages, 2000 videos and 180,000 images under a law mandating disclosure of all such material. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said the release marked the end of planned disclosures, with “extensive” redactions applied to protect victims, legal privilege and ongoing investigations. President Trump, who had resisted the releases despite campaign promises, has denied any wrongdoing and said allegations against him are “unfounded and false”. Some lawmakers remain sceptical the disclosures fully comply with the law, with Senate Democrats questioning withheld material, while the department said it would provide Congress a report detailing all redactions and exclusions.

>>24201416 Video: Former PM Kevin Rudd says he declined Epstein invitation after latest document dump – Newly released US Justice Department documents show convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein sought to cultivate political and financial contacts, including attempts by third parties to introduce him to former Australian prime minister Kevin Rudd. Rudd’s office said he never met Epstein and had no direct contact with him, describing most references as “in passing” or reflecting unsuccessful attempts by others to arrange introductions. Emails from 2013–2016 refer to possible invitations, phone calls or events, but the documents do not show any meeting or correspondence involving Rudd himself. His office said diary records confirm invitations were declined and stressed that being named in the files does not imply wrongdoing.

>>24201428 Katherine Keating speaks out on ‘unfortunate’ Epstein ties after emails exposed – Newly released US Justice Department files show Katherine Keating, daughter of former prime minister Paul Keating, maintained a social and professional relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in the early 2010s, including regular email contact and visits to his New York home. Keating said she was drawn to Epstein’s business connections while trying to build a career in US television but later cut off contact, describing follow-up messages from Epstein and his staff as persistent. She said she had no knowledge of his criminal conduct, never visited his private island or travelled on his plane, and had no inappropriate interactions. The documents show Epstein offered career advice and facilitated introductions, but there is no suggestion of wrongdoing by Keating.

>>24202018 ‘I had Clive Palmer do the … ads’: Trump lieutenant’s Australian election claim revealed in Epstein files – Newly released US Justice Department documents show former Trump strategist Steve Bannon privately claimed he urged Clive Palmer to bankroll tens of millions of dollars in political advertising during Australia’s 2019 federal election. In messages sent to Jeffrey Epstein days after Labor’s election loss, Bannon asserted Palmer funded a $60 million anti-China and anti–climate policy campaign, later disclosed as an $83.6 million spend by the United Australia Party. The exchange situates the Australian election within a broader transnational populist strategy discussed by Bannon and Epstein, focused on disrupting mainstream politics. Labor later said Palmer’s spending crowded out its advertising and represented an unprecedented and destabilising intervention in the campaign.

#44 - Part 62

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 5

>>24205958 How Epstein used a private detective to dig dirt on Australian victim Virginia Giuffre - Newly released US Justice Department documents show Jeffrey Epstein’s long-time private investigator proposed using Epstein’s links to Prince Andrew and British intelligence networks to gather damaging information on Australian survivor Virginia Giuffre. In a 2015 email, the investigator suggested exploiting intelligence connections to access phone records, associates and personal background, then hiring someone in Australia to discreetly probe her reputation to undermine her credibility. The files indicate Epstein routinely used investigators and lawyers to intimidate victims and scrutinise their private lives to deter them from speaking publicly. While there is no evidence the specific proposal was acted upon, the material illustrates a broader pattern of efforts to discredit and pressure Giuffre after she accused Epstein and powerful associates of sexual abuse.

>>24205961 Q Post #4923 - https://twitter.com/VRSVirginia/status/1319071346282778624 - Dearest Virginia - We stand with you. Now and always. Find peace through prayer. Never give up the good fight. God bless you. Q - https://qanon.pub/#4923 - https://qanon.pub/#4568

>>24205961 Q Post #1001 - Where do roads lead? Each prince is associated with a cardinal direction: north, south, east and west. Sacrifice. Collect. [Classified]-1 - [Classified]-2 - Tunnels. Table 29. - D-Room H - D-Room R - D-Room C - Pure EVIL. - 'Conspiracy' - Q - https://qanon.pub/#1001

>>24214739 Palmer admits he spoke to Trump strategist Bannon about 2019 campaign - Clive Palmer has acknowledged receiving a brief late-night phone call from former Trump strategist Steve Bannon during the 2019 federal election period, reversing earlier denials while rejecting suggestions of coordination on his United Australia Party’s $80 million advertising campaign. The disclosure follows US Department of Justice material revealing text messages in which Bannon told convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein he “had Clive Palmer do the … ads”, a claim Palmer dismissed as false. Palmer described his only contact with Bannon as a short, unsolicited conversation offering general encouragement, insisting it had no influence on campaign strategy. The episode has reignited debate over Palmer’s high-profile “Shifty Shorten” advertisements and the implications of contact between Australian political actors and prominent overseas campaign strategists.

>>24218894 EXCLUSIVE: That photo of Andrew with his arm around Virginia Giuffre IS REAL and I introduced them, admits Ghislaine Maxwell in damning emails that blow Pizza Express alibi apart - (Video) Newly released US Justice Department documents include emails attributed to Ghislaine Maxwell stating she was “stating for the record as fact” that she introduced Virginia Giuffre to Prince Andrew and that a widely disputed 2001 photograph of the pair was genuine. The correspondence, dating from 2015, reportedly references Andrew visiting Maxwell’s London home, contradicting long-standing claims questioning the image’s authenticity. Giuffre’s family said the material reinforced her account, while Andrew has historically denied the allegations despite settling a civil lawsuit in 2022 without admission of liability. The disclosures have revived scrutiny of Andrew’s past public explanations regarding his whereabouts. Maxwell, currently imprisoned in the United States, previously rejected Giuffre’s claims.

#44 - Part 63

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 6

>>24240246 Video: Ghislaine Maxwell will only talk if Donald Trump grants clemency, lawyer says - Ghislaine Maxwell has refused to answer questions before a US congressional committee investigating the government’s handling of Jeffrey Epstein’s case, invoking her Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination. Her lawyer, David Oscar Markus, said Maxwell was willing to testify “fully and honestly” if granted clemency by US President Donald Trump, citing a pending habeas petition challenging her conviction. Committee members criticised the move, with Democrats characterising it as an attempt to secure a pardon, while Republican chair James Comer called her silence “very disappointing”. Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence for grooming and trafficking underage girls for Epstein. Renewed scrutiny follows the recent release of millions of Epstein-related documents, which has intensified political and public interest in Maxwell’s potential testimony.

>>24253522 Violent incident between Virginia Giuffre and husband revealed as legal fight over her fortune rages on - Newly unsealed court documents have detailed a 2015 domestic violence incident involving Virginia Giuffre and her estranged husband Robert Giuffre, disclosed as litigation over her estate resumes in the Supreme Court of Western Australia. The Colorado police report, released within the Epstein files, recorded allegations that Robert struck Giuffre and brandished a firearm; he later pleaded guilty to a domestic violence charge but has denied abuse allegations. The estate dispute centres on whether Giuffre died intestate, potentially entitling Robert to a share, or under an implied will excluding him. Her children, lawyer Karrie Louden and carer Cheryl Myers contest distribution of assets linked to civil settlements and memoir royalties.

>>24260342 Virginia Giuffre law could bring flood of sex abuse claims – Democrats in Congress have introduced draft legislation dubbed the Virginia Giuffre’s Survivors’ Act, which would remove statutes of limitations for federal sex-abuse and sex-trafficking claims. The proposal states there would be “no time limit” for filing qualifying actions, reshaping how survivors pursue justice. The bill, backed by Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer and Giuffre’s lawyer Sigrid McCawley, is modelled on New York’s Adult Survivors Act, which triggered thousands of retrospective civil cases. Advocates argue the reform prevents legal deadlines from blocking victims, while critics warn of expanded litigation risks. If passed by both chambers, the law could enable additional claims linked to Jeffrey Epstein’s trafficking network, though many recipients of compensation funds previously waived legal rights. Giuffre’s family and supporters say the measure would mark a structural shift in survivor protections.

>>24281824 Royal reckoning:Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor released 11 hours after arrest as Keir Starmer declares: ‘Nobody is above the law’- (Video) Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was arrested at his Norfolk residence on suspicion of misconduct in public office before being released 11 hours later without charge. Investigations are continuing into alleged correspondence with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during Mountbatten-Windsor’s tenure as Britain’s trade envoy from 2001 to 2011. Thames Valley Police confirmed a man in his sixties had been detained and later released under investigation, with searches conducted at properties in Norfolk and Berkshire. Authorities are assessing emails reportedly showing Mountbatten-Windsor sent confidential trade-related material concerning international investment opportunities to Epstein in 2010. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said “nobody is above the law”, stressing that legal principles must apply equally. King Charles said the matter would proceed through a “full, fair and proper process” and pledged cooperation with authorities. Mountbatten-Windsor has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein.

#44 - Part 64

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 7

>>24281833 King Charles releases statement as Andrew arrested - (Video) King Charles has said “the law must take its course” after expressing his “deepest concern” over the arrest of his brother, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, on suspicion of misconduct in public office. Police confirmed a man in his sixties from Norfolk had been arrested and that searches were being carried out at addresses in Norfolk and Berkshire. Andrew was detained at Sandringham Estate, where he has been living, amid renewed scrutiny following the release in the United States of correspondence linked to Jeffrey Epstein. In a written statement, the King said the issue must proceed through a “full, fair and proper process” handled by the “appropriate authorities”, and pledged “full and wholehearted support and co-operation”. Police said they would not name the arrested man in line with national guidance and reminded media the case was active. Andrew has previously denied wrongdoing in relation to Epstein.

>>24281859 Video: Government records to be searched after Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor arrested in Jeffrey Epstein leak probe – British officials are preparing to search government archives as part of the police investigation into Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor over alleged leaks of confidential information during his tenure as UK trade envoy from 2001 to 2011. Thames Valley Police arrested him at Sandringham before releasing him under investigation, with detectives reportedly seeking to question him about emails disclosed by the US Department of Justice. The material suggests he forwarded official reports from overseas trade visits to Jeffrey Epstein. Whitehall sources said departments would “fully co-operate”, with the Cabinet Office expected to co-ordinate a trawl of records from the Department for Business, the Foreign Office and Downing Street. The Home Secretary was informed of the arrest, and Buckingham Palace was notified after it occurred. Mountbatten-Windsor has denied wrongdoing.

>>24281890 Video: Andrew’s long detention signals gravity of investigation as King Charles keeps calm and carries on – Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was held for almost 12 hours after being arrested on suspicion of misconduct in public office, in a move signalling the seriousness of the investigation into his time as Britain’s trade envoy and alleged links to Jeffrey Epstein. Thames Valley Police detained him at Sandringham before releasing him under investigation, with searches continuing at properties in Norfolk and Berkshire. The probe centres on claims he forwarded confidential trade documents to Epstein while serving between 2001 and 2011. King Charles said he learned of the arrest with “the deepest concern” and stressed “the law must take its course”, while continuing official duties including London Fashion Week engagements. Police confirmed a national co-ordination group has been established to assess material emerging from the US Justice Department’s Epstein files.

>>24281915 The secret operation to arrest Andrew – The arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office followed a carefully planned police operation conducted by Thames Valley Police with support from Norfolk Constabulary. Investigators are believed to have first secured a search warrant after presenting evidence to a magistrate or district judge, enabling raids at Mountbatten-Windsor’s residence on the Sandringham Estate and his former home in Windsor. Around 20 officers travelled more than 200 kilometres from police headquarters in Oxfordshire to the village of Wolferton, arriving shortly after 8am. Former officers say such “confidential operations” typically involve limited briefing to maintain secrecy. After the arrest, Mountbatten-Windsor would have been transported to a police station, processed through a custody suite and formally interviewed with legal representation. The investigation centres on allegations he leaked confidential information during his time as Britain’s trade envoy.

>>24281946 Video: What we know about ex-prince Andrew's arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office - Former prince Andrew Mountbatten Windsor has been released after UK police arrested him on suspicion of misconduct in public office linked to the Epstein files. Thames Valley Police detained Mr Mountbatten Windsor at his Sandringham Estate home at 8am Thursday - his 66th birthday - and searched properties in Norfolk and Berkshire including his former Windsor residence. Police said the investigation relates to allegations he misused information obtained while serving as United Kingdom trade envoy between 2001 and 2011. Recently released United States Department of Justice documents include emails suggesting he shared official information with Jeffrey Epstein. He was questioned for 10 hours before release.

#44 - Part 65

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 8

>>24281975 ‘Now he’s sweating’: British papers savage Andrew after shock arrest - British newspapers have led with scathing front pages after the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor on suspicion of misconduct in public office linked to the Epstein files. Images of him leaving custody after about 11 hours of police questioning on his 66th birthday dominated coverage across the UK press. The Sun said he looked “stunned and wild-eyed”, reviving his 2019 BBC interview claim that he could not sweat. The Daily Mail ran the single-word headline “Downfall”, saying the scandal had plunged the monarchy into its “gravest peril”. Other outlets highlighted King Charles’ statement that “the law must take its course”, while The Guardian described “an extraordinary day” that could have “profound effects” for the royal family and the future of the monarchy.

>>24289211 How I took the shot of Andrew that flashed across the world - (Video) Reuters photographer Phil Noble has described capturing the first image of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor after his arrest on suspicion of misconduct in public office linked to the Epstein files. Noble had waited outside a Norfolk police station for hours after driving six hours from Manchester following a tip about the former prince’s detention. When two Range Rovers left the station after about 11 hours of questioning, Noble fired six frames at the second vehicle, capturing a shot of Andrew “slumped in the back seat” looking shaken. Noble said “everything needs to align” when photographing moving cars and the result can be “more luck than judgment”. The photograph quickly appeared on front pages around the world.

>>24282003 Virginia Giuffre: The lonely courage of a woman who brought down the Establishment - "Virginia Giuffre was tortured and distressed by the end of her life - and no wonder. There’s a narrative out there that this woman - whom we can now thank for the downfall of one of the most odious Establishment figures ever to pull on a morning coat – was crazy. Yeah, she was crazy. Crazy brave, for a start, to speak up against the most powerful people in the world. And driven mad, in the end, by who knows what? The abuse she’d suffered since childhood; the grooming and cruelty inflicted by two apex predators; the wobble-jowled fake outrage of a man who knew perfectly well what he’d done. All of the above. “I have no recollection of ever meeting this lady,” said Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor in 2019. “For the record, she is an absolute total liar,” said Ghislaine Maxwell in a 2016 deposition. But now we know who the liars really are. Ghislaine Maxwell said she’d never seen Epstein do anything untoward. Now she says she’ll tell everything in exchange for immunity. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s arrest on Thursday night was not about Giuffre’s allegations. They went away when he paid her millions of pounds in an out-of-court settlement. He’s always denied any wrongdoing - about everything - and now police will decide whether to charge him for misconduct in public office, over allegedly sharing documents with Epstein. Virginia Giuffre is more than just a terribly sad individual story. She’s emblematic of a change in our society. “Ah, she was just a prostitute,” said an older woman I know recently. “An attention-seeker. Why didn’t she just walk out?” We could spend three years of PhD study answering that question. Why wouldn’t a young woman, allegedly abused as a child and plucked from adolescence by a practised predator in Ghislaine Maxwell, walk out on a prince of the blood royal and the most powerful man in high finance? Maybe she believed them when they told her that’s all she was worth. And now Epstein is dead, Maxwell is in prison and Mountbatten-Windsor is contemplating what life at His Majesty’s Pleasure might actually mean. Doesn’t sound so crazy any more, does it?" - Claire Harvey, The Australian

>>24289252 Whitehall to search envoy records in Andrew investigation - United Kingdom officials are preparing to search government records from Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s tenure as a trade envoy as police investigate allegations he shared confidential information with Jeffrey Epstein. Whitehall sources said departments would “fully co-operate” with detectives examining emails released by the United States Department of Justice suggesting Andrew forwarded official reports of visits to Singapore, Hong Kong and Vietnam in 2010 and 2011. The Cabinet Office is expected to co-ordinate a trawl through archived correspondence across multiple departments to determine what sensitive information he had access to while serving as envoy between 2001 and 2011. Andrew, who was arrested and questioned by Thames Valley Police before being released under investigation, denies wrongdoing.

#44 - Part 66

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 9

>>24289478 New Andrew bombshell as former prince accused of watching young girl being tortured - Newly released Epstein files contain allegations that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was present while a young girl was subjected to electric shocks by Ghislaine Maxwell in the mid-1990s. The claim appears in an FBI report from July 2020 referencing an anonymous tip alleging the incident occurred at Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, Berkshire, and that other men were also present. Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has always denied any wrongdoing and appearing in the Epstein files does not indicate guilt. Surrey Police said it had reviewed its systems but found no record of the allegations being previously reported. The force urged anyone with information about non-recent sexual abuse or trafficking claims connected to the period to contact police.

>>24300121 Anthony Albanese moves to help keep disgraced Andrew away from the throne in pledge to Keir Starmer - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has told British Prime Minister Keir Starmer that Australia would support removing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of royal succession following his arrest over alleged misconduct in public office. In a letter to Starmer, Albanese said his government would agree to any proposal to strip Andrew of succession rights under laws governing Commonwealth realms that recognise the British monarch as head of state. Changes to the line of succession require approval from all relevant parliaments. Governor-General Sam Mostyn said the case showed “no one is above the law”, adding status or power should not shield anyone from investigation. Andrew, who was previously stripped of royal titles, remains in the line of succession despite the allegations and ongoing police investigations.

>>24282029 Q Post #4923 - https://twitter.com/VRSVirginia/status/1319071346282778624 - Dearest Virginia - We stand with you. Now and always. Find peace through prayer. Never give up the good fight. God bless you. Q - https://qanon.pub/#4923 - https://qanon.pub/#4568

#44 - Part 67

The Transgender Agenda - Australia and Worldwide

>>24006107 Queensland government to continue pause on puberty blockers for new adolescent trans patients – The Queensland government will extend its pause on prescribing puberty blockers and cross-sex hormones to new adolescent patients in the public system until at least 2031, citing limited evidence of benefit and potential risks. Health Minister Tim Nicholls said a 530-page independent review by former Victorian chief psychiatrist Professor Ruth Vine found the evidence base “extremely limited” and raised concerns about bone density and fertility impacts. “We believe it is in the best interests of children that these drugs not be made available until better evidence exists,” Nicholls said. Public hospitals will continue to provide psychosocial support. Opposition Treasurer Shannon Fentiman called the decision “gut-wrenching”, saying the government was “playing politics” and ignoring expert advice. Advocacy group Parents of Trans Kids Speak Out said families were “heartbroken”, warning the pause would cause harm. The review noted alternative models, including tighter oversight or reintroduction, but the government opted to maintain the ban pending results of a UK trial.

>>24289977 Staff ‘feared reprisal’, concerned parents ‘alienated’ at ‘unsafe’ Cairns gender clinic - A Queensland Health review has found children as young as 12 were prescribed puberty blockers at the Cairns paediatric gender health service without adequate assessment, documentation or monitoring, while staff feared reprisal for raising safety concerns. The 213-page report said the clinical environment was “not reliably safe for pediatric clients” and identified deficiencies including incomplete notes, missing baseline tests and lack of consent documentation. Investigators found “little evidence” Gillick competency, the legal test of whether a child under 18 has sufficient maturity and understanding to consent to medical treatment, was properly assessed in many cases and some patients moved from psychological care to hormone treatment within weeks. Parents who questioned treatment were reportedly “alienated”, while the report cited a culture discouraging scrutiny. Queensland Health accepted the review’s 21 recommendations “in principle”.

#44 - Part 68

AUKUS Security Pact and Nuclear Submarine Program - Part 1

>>23864543 AUKUS rejects suspicious applicants to protect nuclear secrets - One in 10 applicants for AUKUS nuclear-submarine roles is being rejected on security grounds as Australia tightens protections around top secret technology shared with the US and UK. Authorities have raised concerns about applicants with “dubious connections” to foreign governments, including some Chinese Australian and Indian Australian candidates whose ties extend beyond family and friends. ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess has warned that foreign agencies show an “unhealthy interest” in AUKUS, prompting strict clearance and “nuclear suitability” testing. Applicants have also been rejected over concerning social media activity. The project will ultimately require about 20,000 workers, from welders to nuclear specialists, supported by expanded STEM courses and thousands of new scholarships. Officials say security must be rigorous without excluding viable candidates as Australia prepares to acquire Virginia-class submarines from 2032.

>>23925320 Video: Richard Marles overhauls Defence as department is stripped of procurement – The Albanese government will remove responsibility for major weapons procurement from Defence, creating a new Defence Delivery Agency to oversee around 40 per cent of defence spending. The reform, billed as the biggest overhaul in 50 years, follows repeated cost blowouts and delays on major projects. A national armaments director, drawn from the private sector, will lead the agency and report directly to ministers. The move consolidates three major Defence groups and aims to improve accountability, delivery and value for money. Critics warn details remain unclear, including impacts on capability, staffing and budgets, as Defence faces rising costs linked to AUKUS and broader modernisation pressures.

>>23939138 Australia says it has received AUKUS submarine review from US – Australia has received the United States’ review of the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine partnership and is assessing its findings, Defence Minister Richard Marles said. The review, launched by the Trump administration earlier this year, examined the trilateral pact between Australia, the US and Britain, which will see Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarines under a program costing up to A$368 billion. Concerns were raised in Canberra after the review began, but President Donald Trump later signalled continued support for AUKUS during talks with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The review was led by US under-secretary Elbridge Colby, who has warned of constraints in American submarine production capacity. Australia is also restructuring its defence bureaucracy to accelerate delivery of major projects.

>>23947408 Pentagon’s AUKUS review finds areas to put nuclear submarine pact on “strongest possible footing” – The Pentagon has completed its review of the AUKUS submarine partnership, saying it identified ways to strengthen the pact while reaffirming US support for the Australia–UK–US agreement. Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed Australia had received the review, which a senior US lawmaker said fully endorses AUKUS but highlights critical timelines that must be met. The review was launched to ensure alignment with President Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda and follows concerns over US submarine production capacity. Officials said the agreement remains intact, including plans for Australia to acquire Virginia-class submarines and build its own fleet. Questions remain over industrial capacity, timelines and defence spending as the program advances.

>>23947426 Initial AUKUS review ‘rewritten to reflect Trump’s support’ – The Pentagon’s review of the AUKUS submarine pact was rewritten to align with President Donald Trump’s support for the agreement, despite initial scepticism within the US Defence Department, according to sources familiar with the process. The review, led by undersecretary Elbridge Colby, ultimately endorsed AUKUS while recommending changes to strengthen delivery and meet critical timelines. US lawmakers said it confirmed plans to sell Australia three Virginia-class submarines from 2032, but warned production capacity remains a challenge. Australian and US officials say the pact remains intact, with further discussions expected during upcoming AUSMIN talks. The review underscores ongoing concerns about submarine production rates, workforce capacity and long-term industrial readiness across all three AUKUS partners.

#44 - Part 69

AUKUS Security Pact and Nuclear Submarine Program - Part 2

>>23947465 Defence ministers to meet after US review of AUKUS pact – Defence ministers from Australia, the United States and Britain will meet in Washington next week following the completion of a US review of the AUKUS submarine pact, which found the agreement aligned with American interests but highlighted critical delivery deadlines. The Pentagon said the review confirmed President Donald Trump’s “full-steam ahead” support for AUKUS while identifying areas to strengthen the partnership. The review comes amid concerns about US submarine production capacity and timelines for supplying Australia with Virginia-class boats. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said the review affirmed the pact’s direction, while US lawmakers stressed the need to meet industrial and workforce targets. Talks will also cover advanced technology cooperation under AUKUS Pillar Two.

>>23951246 US allies that don’t step up ‘will face consequences’, Hegseth warns on eve of AUSMIN – US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth warned allies that those failing to lift defence spending would face consequences, as Washington pushes partners to contribute more to collective security. Speaking ahead of AUSMIN talks, Hegseth said the US sought balance in the Indo-Pacific, not confrontation, but insisted allies must meet new expectations, including spending around 3.5 per cent of GDP. He praised “model allies” that invest more and cautioned others they would lose favour. The comments come as Australia prepares for talks amid US pressure to accelerate defence spending, including under AUKUS. While President Trump has backed the submarine pact, US officials acknowledged major production delays and capacity constraints in American shipyards.

>>23954857 US piles fresh pressure on Australia over military spending – The United States has warned Australia it must lift defence spending as Washington sharpens expectations of allies ahead of AUSMIN talks in Washington. The Trump administration says it will no longer tolerate “free-riding”, urging partners to move toward spending 3–5 per cent of GDP on defence. Defence Minister Richard Marles and Foreign Minister Penny Wong will face pressure from US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio amid heightened concern over China’s military activity and regional stability. While President Trump previously gave Canberra leeway, US strategy now emphasises burden-sharing, AUKUS delivery and Indo-Pacific deterrence. Australia maintains it will determine its own defence spending but acknowledges the strategic pressure is intensifying.

>>23954869 Beijing plays victim after harassing Japanese planes – China has accused Japan of “misleading the international community” after Tokyo condemned dangerous encounters in which Chinese J-15 fighter jets twice locked fire-control radar onto Japanese aircraft near Okinawa. Beijing claimed Japanese jets were interfering with “normal” Chinese military activity, rejecting diplomatic protests and accusing Tokyo of escalating tensions. Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the actions were “extremely unfortunate” and demanded safeguards to prevent recurrence. Australia backed Japan, with Defence Minister Richard Marles saying Canberra would “stand with Japan” to uphold a rules-based order. The incident comes amid heightened pressure from Beijing over Japan’s stance on Taiwan and renewed regional tensions involving China, Japan and Australia.

>>23959445 AUKUS to go ‘full steam ahead’ Washington vows - (Video) The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to the AUKUS security pact, with senior officials saying the agreement will advance “full steam ahead” following high-level talks in Washington. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the Pentagon’s review aimed to strengthen, not dilute, the partnership, and confirmed President Donald Trump’s backing. The talks, involving Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Defence Minister Richard Marles, focused on submarine cooperation, defence industrial expansion and critical minerals supply chains. The US confirmed increased investment in submarine production, expanded force posture initiatives in Australia, and deeper collaboration on advanced weapons systems. Both sides emphasised alliance unity, deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, and accelerating AUKUS implementation ahead of planned submarine rotations from 2027.

#44 - Part 70

AUKUS Security Pact and Nuclear Submarine Program - Part 3

>>23968588 Video: Changes to Pillar 2 key part of AUKUS talks says Marles – Australia’s Defence Minister Richard Marles says refining AUKUS Pillar 2 was a central focus of high-level talks in Washington with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and UK Defence Secretary John Healey, following completion of a classified US review led by Pentagon policy chief Elbridge Colby. While details remain restricted, Marles said discussions aimed to sharpen delivery of advanced capabilities under Pillar 2, including hypersonics, AI and quantum technologies, alongside the submarine program under Pillar 1. US, UK and Australian leaders reaffirmed commitment to AUKUS as a long-term deterrent, with Hegseth stressing “peace through strength”. The talks confirmed political backing from President Donald Trump and shifted focus toward implementation, industrial capacity and accelerating capability delivery.

>>24264442 Video: Workforce shortages to bite AUKUS projects amid $55bn spend – The federal government has committed tens of billions to AUKUS-linked infrastructure, including a $3.9bn down payment toward a $30bn nuclear submarine construction yard at Osborne in Adelaide and a previously announced $12bn for upgrades at Henderson in Western Australia. The spending surge comes as industry warns severe labour and skills shortages could disrupt delivery, with Infrastructure Partnerships Australia forecasting a 300,000-worker shortfall and Infrastructure Australia projecting major deficits across engineers, trades and project managers. IPA chief Adrian Dwyer cautioned Adelaide would face “extreme” pressure competing for talent amid concurrent megaprojects. Anthony Albanese said funding and jobs would flow continuously, citing long-term employment and a large training pipeline. US production constraints on Virginia-class submarines continue to shadow the program.

>>24269048 ‘No other choice’: Top senator says ‘100 per cent’ chance US will deliver on AUKUS – US Democratic Senator Tim Kaine says Washington will meet its AUKUS pledge to supply Australia with Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines, arguing the strategic stakes leave America with “no other choice”. During a visit to defence sites in Adelaide, Perth and Darwin, Kaine warned China would exploit any failure of the pact and said bipartisan backing in Congress remained strong. He conceded US production rates must increase and described workforce capacity as the key constraint. Kaine supported proposals for a dedicated AUKUS visa to help address skills shortages. He also referenced a Pentagon review pointing to implementation pressures, including Australia’s requirement to expand infrastructure ahead of regular US submarine rotations planned from 2027.

>>24295254 British submarine arrives for ‘extraordinary’ AUKUS visit - A British nuclear-powered submarine has arrived in Western Australia for a month-long visit described by Australian officials as a “historic step” in preparations for AUKUS submarine operations. HMS Anson, an Astute-class submarine commissioned in 2022, docked at HMAS Stirling in Perth for maintenance and training activities with the Royal Australian Navy. Defence Minister Richard Marles said the visit would help build Australia’s capacity to operate conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines under the AUKUS partnership. Two Australian naval officers are embedded on the vessel during the deployment. Analysts note the timing is “extraordinary” because HMS Anson is reportedly the only operational Astute-class submarine currently available in the Royal Navy’s fleet.

>>24300087 Australia seals UK defence deal with $300m for AUKUS sub reactors - Australia will spend about $310 million on components for nuclear reactors for the AUKUS submarine program as part of a defence agreement reached with the United Kingdom in London. Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said the funding would purchase the first Rolls-Royce reactor modules to be installed in submarines to be built at the Osborne shipyard in South Australia. The deal also expands cooperation on radar systems, drones, laser weapons and missile testing that could support Ukraine. Australia has already committed $5 billion to the nuclear propulsion program and plans to acquire at least three United States Virginia-class submarines before building new SSN-AUKUS vessels with the United Kingdom from the early 2040s.

#44 - Part 71

Australia / China Tensions - Part 1

>>23868369 Penny Wong backs China ties amid disinformation, ‘collapse of truth’ - Foreign Minister Penny Wong says Australia must work closely with China to safeguard the economy while strengthening defences against disinformation, foreign interference and cyber attacks that intelligence chiefs warn Beijing is deploying at scale. She said technologically enabled threats had created a “collapse of truth” and rejected the “false binary” that sovereignty and productive economic ties with Beijing are incompatible. Wong argued the government had stabilised relations “without compromising our interests”, even as officials warn of Chinese cyber intrusions, growing military pressure and efforts to influence the region. She also pointed to trade diversification, recent regional agreements and Australia’s middle-power diplomacy amid continued tensions, including PLA flares fired near an Australian aircraft.

>>23868376 Analysis: Only one China, but two ways to talk about it – "To hear Penny Wong talk about China and then hear our intelligence chiefs talk about China, you might wonder whether they were speaking about the same country. When it comes to relations with Beijing, the Foreign Minister places herself firmly in the camp of the pragmatic doves… Wong is safe, cautious and measured in her criticisms of Beijing… By contrast, ASIO chief Mike Burgess and the outgoing Office of National Intelligence director-general Andrew Shearer have adopted the role of Canberra’s honest hawks… Burgess said he was aware of ‘one nation state - no prizes for guessing which one – conducting multiple attempts to scan and penetrate critical infrastructure’… Shearer said Xi Jinping’s dictatorship was waging a concerted campaign of military intimidation and state-sponsored hacking… Ever since China progressively removed the $20bn in unwarranted trade sanctions it slapped on Australia from 2020 to 2023, the Albanese government has pulled its punches rhetorically about the dark side of China’s behaviour in the region. This is what China wanted, of course, when it chose to remove its own sanctions. Wong wants this stabilised relationship to continue, and this is overwhelmingly in Australia’s interests. But we should also welcome the fact that our intelligence chiefs are willing to remind us no amount of polite diplomatic language can hide the reality that China’s relentless cyber war is a daily and ongoing threat to national security." – Cameron Stewart, The Australian

>>23890083 At Manila Dialogue, Contemplating UNCLOS Rights and China’s Might – The Manila Dialogue underscored broad international support for the Philippines as it confronts persistent Chinese harassment in the South China Sea, while revealing the limits of transparency as a strategy. Manila’s public exposure of Chinese actions has drawn backing from Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and several European partners, which have expanded security cooperation. The forum centred on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which strengthens Southeast Asian maritime claims but suffers from weak enforcement. Vietnam and the Philippines have recently amended national laws to align with UNCLOS, bolstering the rules-based order. Despite mounting evidence of its behaviour, China continues to press its claims, raising doubts about law alone restraining coercive power.

>>23895425 Taiwan asks to join AUKUS, warns on China coercion – Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to Australia, Douglas Hsu, has urged Canberra to consider including Taiwan in AUKUS’s second pillar, warning that China’s military activity and economic coercion pose growing regional risks. Hsu said Beijing’s naval operations, cyber activity and pressure tactics showed the need for stronger cooperation among like-minded partners. He argued Taiwan could contribute advanced capabilities in areas such as artificial intelligence and quantum technologies. While acknowledging Australia’s “One China” policy, he said collaboration short of formal membership was possible. Experts cautioned AUKUS is not designed for expansion, but said practical cooperation with Taiwan could still deepen. Hsu warned that appeasement only emboldens Beijing and urged stronger collective deterrence.

#44 - Part 72

Australia / China Tensions - Part 2

>>23895442 MPs told switch off phones amid China delegation security threat – Australian MPs and staff were warned to power down phones and connected devices during the visit of China’s third-ranking leader Zhao Leji, amid fears of state-sponsored cyber espionage. An internal parliamentary alert warned that “internet-connected devices including phones, tablets and laptops should be powered down,” citing risks that visiting officials could include cyber operatives. Officials said phones could be exploited because “a single compromised device can give continuous insight into movements, contacts and authentication data”. Opposition figures said the advice was “a stark reminder” of the cyber threat posed by Beijing. Security agencies also prepared for protests outside Parliament, while experts warned such measures were necessary because “phones are now part of the battlespace”.

>>23900213 ‘Factional warrior’ meeting with PM shows easing ties – A visit to Canberra by China’s third-most senior leader, Zhao Leji, has been interpreted as a sign of improving relations between Australia and its largest trading partner. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met Zhao on Tuesday, marking another high-level exchange following Premier Li Qiang’s visit earlier this year. Experts say Zhao’s presence signals stabilisation after years of diplomatic strain. Australian National University’s Graeme Smith described Zhao as a “factional warrior” with deep influence inside the Chinese Communist Party, noting his past leadership of the powerful Organisation Department. The visit followed the lifting of major Chinese trade restrictions on Australian exports and came amid heightened security, with MPs warned to take precautions during Zhao’s time in Parliament House.

>>23904277 Anthony Albanese has a secret China chat, as Xi Jinping’s Donald Trump call sparks Taiwan fears – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held undisclosed talks in Canberra with China’s third-ranking official Zhao Leji as Beijing signalled Taiwan would be central to its dealings with US President Donald Trump. The meeting, described by the government as a “private conversation”, came as Xi told Trump that Taiwan’s “return to China” was central to Beijing’s post-war vision. Chinese media said Trump acknowledged the issue’s importance, while the White House did not mention Taiwan. Opposition figures accused Albanese of secrecy, while officials reiterated Australia’s position against unilateral change to the status quo. Analysts warned the exchange could unsettle regional allies and embolden Beijing, amid heightened security concerns during Zhao’s visit.

>>23904289 OPINION: Asking to join AUKUS an opportunist move by the island of Taiwan – "According to a report by the Australian Financial Review on Monday, Douglas Hsu, the chief representative of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Australia, is urging the Albanese government to include the island of Taiwan in the AUKUS security pact between the US, Britain and Australia. He claimed that the Taiwan authorities had expressed interest in joining Pillar II of AUKUS. It is worth noting that Taiwan's demand came against the backdrop of the ongoing spat between China and Japan triggered by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent erroneous remarks regarding the Taiwan question. Takaichi claimed that a "Taiwan contingency" could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan, sending wrong signals to Taiwan independence separatists. By seeking to join AUKUS and warning against "coercive behavior" from the mainland, Taiwan is embarking on an opportunistic path to stage a political stunt, according to Chinese experts the Global Times interviewed. Taiwan's petty calculations regarding joining AUKUS reflect its malicious intention of seeking more room and external support for "independence" on the international stage. However, "Taiwan independence" separatists should recognize that there is no room for reckless actions. The notion of "Taiwan independence" is not a viable political option, it is something that must be decisively opposed. Attempting to rely on joining AUKUS for external support will prove futile, as it will not provide the security guarantees that "Taiwan independence" forces desire. Furthermore, the future of AUKUS itself is uncertain, with an ongoing US review of the pact casting doubt on its stability. Engaging in political stunts is merely self-deception that will lead to embarrassment for "Taiwan independence" secessionists. They should abandon any illusions of relying on external powers and recognize the reality that there is only one China in the world, and Taiwan is an integral part of it." – The Global Times

#44 - Part 73

Australia / China Tensions - Part 3

>>23908867 China releases details of PM talks as its No. 3 official warns Australia to respect Taiwan ‘core interests’ – China’s third-ranking leader Zhao Leji told Prime Minister Anthony Albanese that Australia should “understand and respect” Beijing’s positions on Taiwan, the South China Sea, Xinjiang and Hong Kong, after Canberra declined to release details of their meeting. In a Chinese government readout, Zhao said there was “no conflict of fundamental interests” between the two countries and called for stable relations and expanded cooperation. The statement confirmed discussions on trade, climate change, women’s rights and parliamentary exchanges, and said Australia “is willing to maintain regular communication” with China. Zhao also conveyed President Xi Jinping’s view that Taiwan’s status is a “core interest”. The disclosure followed concerns in Canberra over secrecy surrounding the talks and came amid heightened tensions over Taiwan and regional security.

>>23930005 Interpol for the islands: AFP chief Krissy Barrett’s Pacific push to counter China – Australia will push for a Pacific regional policing bloc when it hosts the United Nations Chiefs of Police summit, with Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett seeking to counter China’s expanding security footprint and lift Pacific participation in UN peacekeeping. Barrett said the Pacific’s “policing perspectives” must be reflected in UN policy as China deepens engagement through training and security deals, including in Solomon Islands. The initiative follows the Albanese government’s $400 million Pacific Policing Initiative and aims to strengthen regional capacity, combat transnational crime and expand peacekeeping roles. Barrett said Pacific police should have a stronger global voice and access to deployments that “protect our region from complex criminal networks”.

>>23934631 Former Japan envoy slams Labor’s silence on China bullying – Japan’s former ambassador to Australia, Shingo Yamagami, has accused the Albanese government of failing to publicly support Tokyo amid escalating Chinese pressure, arguing Canberra has not reciprocated Japan’s backing during Australia’s own disputes with Beijing. Writing in The Australian, Yamagami criticised Labor’s restraint as China reacted angrily to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks warning that an attack on Taiwan could trigger Japanese military action. Beijing responded with diplomatic threats and trade pressure. The comments come as Australia monitors Chinese naval activity and seeks to stabilise ties with Beijing. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said Australia consistently opposes economic coercion and remains committed to strengthening security cooperation with Japan through regional partnerships and the Quad.

>>23934651 Where is Australia in Japan’s moment of need? - "What if a Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman demanded that the Prime Minister of Australia retract his remarks made in the Parliament House while the consul-general of China in Sydney posted his willingness to decapitate the PM on his X account? You’d be hard-pressed to imagine such a scenario. Yet that is precisely what is happening between Japan and China. So, consider for a moment whether newly elected Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said something insane or at odds with reality. If China were to impose a blockade around Taiwan and the US tried to extricate Taiwan from such a predicament, the dispatch of Chinese warships into the Taiwan Strait under such circumstances could constitute an “existence-threatening situation” under Japan’s national security legislation. Such a scenario would allow the Japanese government to dispatch the SDF on a military mission to defend a core strategic interest and act in support of Japan’s principal ally … Nevertheless, China reacted vehemently, labelling Takaichi’s remarks as running counter to the “one China” policy and an “unacceptable intervention in China’s domestic affairs”. This is, it must be said, another typical example of the Middle Kingdom rewriting history. Any student of Chinese history remembers that when Japan and other major liberal democracies normalised their diplomatic relations with China in the mid-1970s, they didn’t accept or agree with China’s position that Taiwan was an inalienable part of China. In light of these developments, Japan’s friends in the US and Taiwan have been quick to make public expressions of heartwarming support … When Australia came under tremendous pressure from China and was subject to similar economic coercion, Japan stated out loud that Australia was not walking alone. Is it too much to expect the same from our Aussie mates in times of need?" – Shingo Yamagami, Japan’s ambassador plenipotentiary to Australia from 2021 to 2023, The Australian

#44 - Part 74

Australia / China Tensions - Part 4

>>23951083 China and Russia ‘not 10-feet tall’, says spy boss Andrew Shearer – Outgoing Office of National Intelligence director-general Andrew Shearer has warned that while China and Russia are “ruthless” and well-resourced, they are not invincible and face deep structural weaknesses. Speaking at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute’s Sydney Dialogue, Shearer said authoritarian systems benefit from centralised power but are undermined by corruption, economic strain and internal instability. He pointed to corruption within China’s leadership, pressures on Russia’s economy and military, and long-term demographic and governance challenges. Shearer argued Western democracies retain fundamental strengths, including alliances, innovation and social cohesion, and urged against fatalism. He said Australia’s partnerships, particularly with the United States and Japan, were critical as global strategic competition intensifies.

>>23959526 Chinese envoy Xiao Qian blasts Japanese PM Sanae Takaichi over Taiwan call – China’s ambassador to Australia, Xiao Qian, has accused Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi of reviving militarism after she warned a Chinese invasion of Taiwan could trigger a Japanese military response. Writing in The Australian, Xiao said Japan was distorting history and using Taiwan to justify rearmament, claims rejected by analysts who described his arguments as historically inaccurate and politically motivated. The comments follow rising tensions after Chinese jets targeted Japanese aircraft and amid growing Australia–Japan security alignment. Canberra reiterated support for Japan and criticised unsafe Chinese military behaviour. Analysts said Beijing’s rhetoric aims to intimidate Tokyo and fracture regional alliances as strategic competition intensifies.

>>23959554 COMMENTARY: A warning on the rise of Japanese aggression - "Recently, someone published misinformation in Australia, in the aim of whitewashing Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s remarks of military threat against China by invoking a “survival-threatening situation”. To advance this narrative, they openly distorted history, misled public opinion, and sought to disrupt the relationship between China and Australia … To justify the truth, I would like to make the following clarifications. First, a “survival-threatening situation” has historically been a prelude to Japan’s foreign aggression. In history, Japan repeatedly invoked the so-called “survival-threatening situation” to push public opinion into supporting wars of foreign aggression, including the First Sino-Japanese War in 1894, the invasion of China’s northeast on September 18, 1931, and the North China Incident that marked Japan’s expanded aggression in 1935 … Creating crises, mobilising public opinion and engaging in military adventurism have long been a go-to tactic for Japan to launch aggression. Takaichi’s remarks blatantly break Japan’s fundamental commitment to a path of peace and seek to exploit populism to revive militarism. The Taiwan question is merely the lever that has been chosen to advance this dangerous agenda … Taiwan has been part of China since ancient times and is an inalienable part of Chinese territory. Japan’s colonial rule is a painful, traumatic chapter in the collective memory of the people of Taiwan. Japan has never genuinely reflected on its history of aggression and has yet to offer sincere apologies to countries in the region, including China and Australia. Once Japanese militarism revives, it would seek ruthless revenge, and the peoples of the Asia-Pacific would be the first to suffer … Only by working together can we safeguard regional peace and stability, uphold the post-war international order, and prevent humanity from once again being devastated by the horrors of war." - Xiao Qian, China’s ambassador to Australia - The Australian

>>23959606 NRL sets itself as unity force against China in PNG – Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has framed the country’s incoming NRL expansion team as a national unifier, likening its potential impact to South Africa’s post-apartheid rugby success. Speaking in Sydney, Marape said the PNG Chiefs could lift school attendance, social cohesion and economic confidence. Australian officials see broader strategic value, with ARL Commission chair Peter V’landys arguing rugby league can counter China’s influence by embedding Australian soft power at a grassroots level. While Marape publicly thanked China for its investment, Australia is backing the project with about $600 million and tying it to deeper defence and development cooperation. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the team could boost education outcomes and strengthen Australia’s strategic partnership with PNG.

#44 - Part 75

Australia / China Tensions - Part 5

>>23988007 Google to build subsea cables in Papua New Guinea - Google will build three new subsea internet cables across Papua New Guinea under a project funded by Australia through the Pukpuk Treaty, strengthening digital infrastructure and regional security. The US$120 million project will link northern and southern PNG and the autonomous Bougainville region, improving connectivity, lowering internet costs and supporting economic development. PNG’s acting ICT minister Peter Tsiamalili said the cables would enhance digital resilience and attract global investment. Australia and the United States view PNG as strategically vital amid growing Chinese influence in the Pacific, and the project aligns with broader efforts to counter Beijing’s role in regional telecommunications. Australia has committed more than A$450 million to undersea cables across the Pacific, while the US has expanded defence ties with PNG.

>>24046421 Video: China launches drills to simulate blockade of Taiwan, warns off ‘external forces’ - China has launched large-scale live-fire military exercises around Taiwan, simulating a blockade of key ports and warning “external forces” against backing the island. Beijing said the drills, involving naval, air and rocket forces, were aimed at testing joint combat readiness and deterring pro-independence activity. The exercises follow recent US arms sales to Taiwan and include operations near major ports such as Keelung and Kaohsiung. China’s foreign ministry said any attempt to block reunification was “doomed to fail”, while Taiwan condemned the manoeuvres as intimidation and activated response measures, including deploying coastguard vessels and placing its military on alert. Taipei said the drills confirmed Beijing’s role as a regional aggressor and a threat to stability.

>>24060100 Video: Australian beef at risk of $1bn hit as China serves up strict new import quotas – Australia’s beef industry has warned exports to China could fall by up to $1bn a year after Beijing imposed strict new import quotas and a 55 per cent tariff on shipments above set limits. China’s commerce ministry said safeguards were needed after an investigation found surging imports had harmed domestic producers. Australia’s 2026 quota of 205,000 tonnes is below recent export levels. Trade Minister Don Farrell said he was “deeply disappointed”, insisting Australian beef was “not a risk” and that free-trade commitments should be respected. Agriculture Minister Julie Collins said the government held “serious concerns”. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia had not been “singled out”, describing the move as “across the board”. Industry groups said the decision would have a “severe impact” on trade flows.

>>24184927 ‘We will see’: Beijing hints at retaliation over Port of Darwin lease – China’s ambassador to Australia has warned Beijing may retaliate if the Albanese government forces the sale of the Chinese-owned Port of Darwin, saying China has an obligation to protect the “legitimate interests” of its companies overseas. The comments revive tensions despite improved trade ties, with the ambassador insisting any move to reclaim the port by “forceful measures” would prompt a response. He also dismissed concerns about Chinese naval exercises near Australia as routine, warned there was “no room for compromise” on Taiwan, and ruled out any prospect of a deal to return jailed Australian writer Yang Hengjun. The remarks underscore unresolved strategic frictions beneath the stabilised bilateral relationship.

>>24243846 Two Chinese nationals charged with foreign interference over alleged Buddhist group spying - (Video) Two Chinese nationals have been charged with reckless foreign interference offences over allegations they collected information on a Canberra Buddhist organisation for Beijing’s Public Security Bureau. The pair, aged 25 and 31, were scheduled to appear before the Canberra Magistrates Court, joining a third Chinese national charged last year under Operation Autumn-Shield, a joint Australian Federal Police and ASIO investigation. Authorities allege the activity targeted the Guan Yin Citta Buddhist association, a movement banned in China. Officials emphasised foreign interference as a priority security threat, warning diaspora communities are frequent targets of monitoring and intimidation by foreign regimes. ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess described such conduct as unacceptable, while the AFP said further interference attempts should be expected despite the arrests. The offences carry potential penalties of up to 15 years’ imprisonment.

#44 - Part 76

Australia / China Tensions - Part 6

>>24248847 Canberra bakery assistant faces court charged as an alleged Chinese spy - Zheng Siru, a 31-year-old Canberra bakery assistant, has faced the ACT Magistrates Court accused of collecting information on the Guan Yin Citta Buddhist Association on behalf of China’s Public Security Bureau. Zheng was charged alongside a 25-year-old Chinese national, whose identity was suppressed, with reckless foreign interference, an offence carrying a maximum penalty of 15 years’ imprisonment. Authorities allege the pair acted with a third Chinese woman previously charged in August as part of a wider investigation into alleged monitoring of the Buddhist group, which Beijing has labelled an “evil cult”. Key allegations and evidence were not aired after prosecutors secured national security protection orders over documents. Defence lawyers indicated bail applications would be pursued. The arrests form part of the joint AFP-ASIO Operation Autumn-Shield.

>>24260475 Bailed Chinese ‘spies’ are a flight risk, says AFP – Two Chinese nationals charged with reckless foreign interference have been released on strict bail conditions after the Australian Federal Police argued they could abscond with assistance from the People’s Republic of China. Zheng Siru, 31, and a 25-year-old man known by the pseudonym Joseph Vance pleaded not guilty in the ACT Magistrates Court to allegations they collected information on the Canberra branch of the Guan Yin Citta Buddhist Association, a movement Beijing labels an “evil cult”. Prosecutors cited concerns that Chinese authorities could supply false travel documents and stressed extradition would be unlikely if the pair left Australia. Magistrate Glenn Theakston questioned whether the alleged conduct extended beyond gathering open-source information but accepted investigations were ongoing. Bail requires frequent police reporting, passport surrender and restrictions on contact with Chinese officials.

>>24276590 Chinese spy told to crack enemy’s inner circle and be rewarded, police allege – Court documents allege a Canberra-based trio charged with reckless foreign interference were directed by a People’s Republic of China Public Security Bureau official to infiltrate the Guan Yin Citta Buddhist Association and penetrate the “enemy’s inner circle”. Zheng Siru, 31, a 25-year-old man known as “Joseph Vance” and a woman referred to as “Thomas Tyler” have pleaded not guilty to collecting information on the group, which Beijing labels an “evil cult”. Police claim encrypted WeChat exchanges show the official urged Tyler to obtain a senior position within the association and promised recognition from leaders in Beijing if she succeeded. Investigators allege the trio conducted company searches, monitored members, attempted phone contact under false pretences and compiled extensive data, including a 99-gigabyte file shared online. Search warrants seized devices and luxury goods. All three were granted bail and will return to court in April.

#44 - Part 77

Australia / China Tensions - Part 7

>>24305674 Video: Anthony Albanese evacuated from The Lodge after bomb threat - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was evacuated from The Lodge in Canberra after a bomb threat prompted Australian Federal Police to search the official residence. Albanese was taken to a secure location about 6pm while officers conducted a “thorough search of a protection establishment”, with police later confirming nothing suspicious was found and there was no ongoing threat. The incident comes amid rising threats against federal politicians. AFP figures show 951 threats or referrals involving parliamentarians in the last financial year. AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett has warned of increasing risks from individuals motivated by grievance or online radicalisation, while Australian Security Intelligence Organisation Director-General Mike Burgess says the threat of politically motivated violence is “already flashing red”.

>>24305682 Chinese dance troupe Falun Gong claim threat against PM and the Lodge was made to stop them - (Video) A bomb threat that forced Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to evacuate The Lodge warned explosives would be detonated if a performance by the Shen Yun dance troupe went ahead in Australia. The Chinese-language email claimed “large quantities of nitroglycerine explosives” had been placed around the Canberra residence and warned “blood will flow like a river” if the show proceeded. Police searched the grounds and later confirmed the threat was false. Shen Yun, founded by adherents of the Falun Gong spiritual movement, had performances scheduled across Australia beginning on the Gold Coast. Falun Gong representatives said the threat was an attempt to intimidate the group and accused the Chinese Communist Party of foreign interference. Authorities have not publicly identified the sender of the message.

>>24305695 Australian Prime Minister evacuated from residence after Chinese bomb threat over Shen Yun performance - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was evacuated from The Lodge in Canberra after a Chinese-language bomb threat warned explosives would be detonated if performances by Shen Yun Performing Arts went ahead in Australia. Emails sent to local presenters claimed explosives had been placed around the prime minister’s residence and warned it would be “blown into ruins” if the shows proceeded. Australian Federal Police searched the property and later confirmed the threat was false and there was no danger to the community. Shen Yun, a New York-based dance troupe founded by practitioners of the Falun Gong spiritual movement, has long faced opposition from the Chinese Communist Party. Organisers said the threats were part of a broader campaign of intimidation targeting the group’s international performances.

>>24305699 Video: Shen Yun 2026 Official Trailer - The wait is over! The trailer for our brand-new 2026 performances is here. Mark your calendars and book your tickets now - https://sypa.us/tickets - Shen Yun Performing Arts presents colorful and exhilarating performances of classical Chinese dance and music. A performance by Shen Yun is a presentation of traditional Chinese culture as it once was: a study in grace, wisdom, and the virtues distilled from the five millennia of Chinese civilization. Experience China Before Communism. Visit our website - https://www.shenyun.org

>>24309823 China hits back at dance troupe linked to PM bomb scare - China’s embassy in Canberra has criticised Shen Yun after a bomb threat sent to the dance troupe prompted the evacuation of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese from The Lodge. Emails in Mandarin warned explosives had been placed around the prime minister’s residence and would be detonated if the troupe’s Australian performances went ahead. Albanese was taken to a secure location for several hours while Australian Federal Police searched the property and found no threat. The embassy said it had “no knowledge” of the incident but condemned violence while accusing Shen Yun and its affiliated Falun Gong movement of promoting “anti-China narratives” and “cult ideology”. Shen Yun organisers said the threats reflected escalating intimidation linked to the Chinese Communist Party and raised national security concerns.

#44 - Part 78

Australia / China Tensions - Part 8

>>24276632 Kevin Rudd ‘did not engage’ with man alleged to have sold information to China – Former prime minister Kevin Rudd will give evidence in the trial of Alexander Csergo, a Bondi businessman accused of reckless foreign interference, with the court told Dr Rudd “did not engage” with him despite Csergo claiming in reports he had spoken to the then US ambassador about AUKUS and the Quad. Prosecutors allege Csergo accepted cash from two alleged Chinese intelligence operatives in Shanghai in exchange for reports on defence, national security and economic matters. The Crown says he maintained contact with the pair despite suspecting links to China’s Ministry of State Security. The defence argues the material was open-source and commercially available, describing it as “complete gibberish”. Prosecutors contend motive is irrelevant, focusing on whether Csergo intentionally provided information he believed was relevant to foreign agents.

>>24295251 Accused China asset 'fabricated' Kevin Rudd reports for cash - An Australian businessman accused of foreign interference allegedly fabricated reports claiming to contain advice from former prime minister Kevin Rudd and supplied them to individuals he believed were Chinese intelligence agents, a court has heard. Alexander Csergo, 59, has pleaded not guilty to reckless foreign interference after allegedly providing reports on topics including AUKUS, the Quad diplomatic partnership and critical minerals to two contacts he believed worked for China’s Ministry of State Security. Prosecutors say the reports relied on open-source information but included quotes from “fake interviews”, including material attributed to Rudd. The former prime minister is expected to testify he never spoke to Csergo about Australian defence, AUKUS or Quad matters.

>>24305717 ‘Never’: Rudd denies talking to accused Chinese asset - Former prime minister Kevin Rudd has denied any contact with Australian businessman Alexander Csergo, who is accused of working with individuals he believed were Chinese intelligence agents. Csergo, 59, has pleaded not guilty to reckless foreign interference after allegedly providing reports to two contacts he thought worked for China’s Ministry of State Security. Prosecutors say the reports contained fabricated statements attributed to several figures including Rudd. In a statement read to the jury, Rudd said: “I do not personally know this person or business” and confirmed he never responded to an email Csergo sent seeking defence and security advice in 2022. Police allege Csergo passed reports compiled from open-source information to the contacts in exchange for money.

#44 - Part 79

Child Sexual Abuse, Pedophilia, Human Trafficking and Satanism Investigations - Part 1

>>23860360 Child sex doll heads sold as model mannequins to harness loophole - Child-protection advocates say Temu and Shein are offering child-sex-abuse doll parts, including torsos and disembodied heads, despite Australian laws banning the possession, advertising and importation of any doll depicting someone under 18 for sexual use. Collective Shout - an Australian campaigning organisation that targets the sexualisation of women and girls in media, advertising and popular culture - has repeatedly uncovered listings and reported that sellers avoid detection by offering “heads separately” or relabelling them as mannequins. Although some items were removed after earlier exposure, the group says new versions continue to appear. The Australian Border Force has noted a “disturbing rise” in attempted imports, while experts warn there is “no evidence” such dolls prevent offending and instead reflect entrenched harmful behaviour.

>>23860368 Video: Sydney man charged for child sex doll, AI-generated abuse material - Federal authorities have charged a Sydney man after allegedly importing a child-like sex doll and generating “significant” AI-created abuse material. Australian Border Force officers investigated a shipment from Asia in August and seized a doll “in the likeness of a child”, triggering a search of a Lalor Park home where investigators allegedly found importation documents, children’s clothing and extensive digital material. Neil Gardoll, 59, was arrested and charged with importing “tier 2 goods” and producing and possessing child abuse material, with each offence carrying a maximum 15-year penalty. ABF officials said such dolls “normalise child exploitation”, while the AFP warned offenders “will be found, charged and prosecuted”. Authorities say intelligence tools are increasingly identifying attempted imports and detecting emerging AI-generated abuse material.

>>23888045 Government steps in to close loophole that allowed churches to avoid liability for paedophile priests - Western Australia has introduced retrospective legislation to close a loophole that enabled churches to avoid responsibility for abusive clergy after a High Court ruling found the Catholic Church in Ballarat was not vicariously liable because the priest was a “volunteer employed by God”. Attorney-General Tony Buti said the bill “rectifies an unacceptable situation” and allows any survivor, regardless of when the abuse occurred, to bring an action based on vicarious liability. Lawyers say it will fast-track justice, add pressure on churches to settle, and prevent drawn-out trauma. But critics argue the Cook Government is undermining its own stance by appealing a $2.8m payout to survivor Dion Barber, who called the appeal “disgraceful”. Advocates warn the move sends a damaging message to victim-survivors, urging consistency, compassion and proper funding for peer support as broader reforms continue.

>>23908859 ‘Nudify’ services used by Australian school students blocked after eSafety compliance action – Australia has blocked access to three “nudify” websites after they were linked to AI-generated child sexual exploitation, including students creating fake nude images of classmates. The UK-based operator withdrew Australian access following enforcement action by the eSafety Commissioner, which found the services breached mandatory online safety codes. The platforms attracted about 100,000 Australian visits a month and were marketed with features such as “undressing ‘any girl’” and “schoolgirl” modes. eSafety commissioner Julie Inman Grant said the tools had been used “to devastating effect” in schools and that reports of deepfake abuse had doubled in 18 months. She warned such behaviour causes “long-term harm” and requires stronger safeguards, education and cultural change. The commission is also targeting hosting platforms that enable AI misuse.

#44 - Part 80

Child Sexual Abuse, Pedophilia, Human Trafficking and Satanism Investigations - Part 2

>>23925350 Sydney men charged over alleged international satanic paedophile network – (Video) Four men have been charged over their alleged involvement in an international child sexual abuse network that investigators say circulated extreme and ritualistic material online. Police allege 26-year-old Landon Ashton Versace Germanotta-Mills played a central role in the network, which allegedly distributed child abuse and bestiality material through encrypted online platforms. Three others – Benjamin Raymond Drysdale, Mark Andrew Sendecky and Stuart Woods Riches – were arrested in Sydney and charged with offences including possessing and accessing child abuse material, breaching reporting obligations and drug offences. Investigators say thousands of files depicting the abuse of children, including infants, were uncovered during searches, though no victims have yet been identified. Police described the material as “particularly devastating” and said the group used ritualistic imagery and symbols. All four men have been refused bail or did not apply and will reappear in court in January.

>>23925388 Journalist, former swim coach charged in ‘abhorrent’ alleged satanic paedophile ring – (Video) Four men, including an independent journalist and a former swimming coach, have been charged following a New South Wales Police investigation into an alleged international child abuse network involving “satanic” imagery and rituals. Police allege the group possessed and distributed child abuse material, with “thousands of videos” depicting abuse of children aged from infancy to 12, and some involving animals. Investigators say the material included “symbols and rituals” linked to occult themes and was shared through online conversations. One man, Landon Germanotta-Mills, identified as the founder of the Underground Media Network - which describes itself as an independent investigative journalism platform - was accused of leading the group. Police said the men had no confirmed access to children but posed a community risk. All were refused bail and will reappear in court in January.

>>23939181 Alleged childcare paedophile Joshua Dale Brown hit with more than 80 additional charges – Victorian police have laid more than 80 new charges against alleged childcare offender Joshua Dale Brown, bringing the total to 156 offences. The additional charges relate to four newly identified alleged victims and include sexual assault, producing and transmitting child abuse material, bestiality offences and reckless conduct. Police said some charges relate to earlier alleged victims and confirmed the new allegations are not linked to additional childcare centres. Health authorities said no further child testing is required. Brown, 27, previously worked at multiple childcare centres across Melbourne and remains in custody. Authorities said the investigation is ongoing, with large volumes of material still under review. Brown is due to return to court in February.

>>23939195 Childcare worker, former Knox student David William James charged with producing child abuse material – A former childcare worker and ex-Knox Grammar School student, David William James, has been charged with a series of additional child abuse offences, bringing the total to 31 charges. Police allege the 26-year-old used children aged five and six to produce child abuse material across six out-of-school-hours care centres between 2021 and 2024. New charges include aggravated use of a child to make abuse material, sexual acts involving children, and producing child abuse material. Some charges relate to alleged filming of children at childcare centres. James appeared in Downing Centre Local Court, where his case was adjourned until December 22. Authorities said some charges may be withdrawn as proceedings continue.

>>23947528 Video: Son of Chabad rabbi in Australia convicted of child sex abuse in long-running scandal – Velvel Serebryanski, the son of a prominent Chabad rabbi, has been convicted in Victoria of multiple child sexual abuse offences following a jury trial in the County Court. The 61-year-old was found guilty of three counts of indecent assault and one count of sexual penetration of a child, relating to abuse of Manny Waks while he was a student at Melbourne’s Chabad-Lubavitch institutions. Serebryanski, who denied the charges, was extradited from the United States in 2023 after years of legal proceedings. The case forms part of a broader scandal involving historical abuse within the community. Waks, now an advocate for survivors, said the verdict marked the end of a long and painful chapter. Sentencing is scheduled for December 12.

#44 - Part 81

Child Sexual Abuse, Pedophilia, Human Trafficking and Satanism Investigations - Part 3

>>23947563 Child sex survivor's message after abuser found guilty – Child sexual abuse survivor Manny Waks has urged others to come forward after a Victorian jury found Zev “Velvel” Serebryanski guilty of sexually assaulting him almost four decades ago. The County Court convicted Serebryanski of three counts of indecent assault and one count of sexual penetration of a child aged between 10 and 16, relating to offences committed in the late 1980s at Melbourne’s Yeshivah Centre. Waks, now a prominent advocate for abuse survivors, said the verdict marked accountability after years of emotional, personal and financial cost. Prosecutors said the abuse occurred during a religious gathering, while Serebryanski denied the allegations. He will return to court for sentencing next week and remains on bail.

>>23954894 Ashley Paul Griffith: Queensland’s worst childcare paedophile could have been caught five times, report finds – A damning review has found serial child sex offender Ashley Paul Griffith could have been stopped on at least five occasions before his eventual arrest, exposing systemic failures across Queensland’s childcare and policing systems. The Child Death Review Board found repeated warning signs were missed, including parental complaints, inappropriate behaviour reports, and dismissals from multiple childcare centres that were never properly escalated or recorded. Police and regulators failed to investigate adequately, with information siloed and risk assessments focused on criminal thresholds rather than child safety. Griffith ultimately pleaded guilty to 307 offences involving nearly 70 victims, some as young as one. The review found 18 missed intervention points and concluded he was only caught after uploading abuse material overseas. It recommended urgent reform, including a mandatory reportable conduct scheme and tighter integration of child safety oversight, warning the system “failed these children at every level.”

>>23954929 Ashley Paul Griffith: The 13 defining moments that could have stopped Queensland’s worst paedophile – A 516-page review has identified 13 critical failures that allowed childcare worker Ashley Paul Griffith to sexually abuse dozens of children over more than two decades. The Child Death Review Board found repeated warnings from parents, educators and staff were ignored or mishandled by police, regulators and childcare providers. Complaints dating back to 2009 described inappropriate touching, distressing behaviour and grooming, yet reports were misrecorded, dismissed or never escalated. Griffith was repeatedly dismissed from centres without explanations being shared, allowing him to move between workplaces undetected. Authorities also failed to act on evidence linking him to child abuse material, including bedding traced to abuse images years before his arrest. The review found at least 18 missed intervention points, concluding systemic failures prioritised administrative processes over child safety, enabling prolonged abuse of children aged one to nine.

>>24101293 ‘Abhorrent’: PM slams Elon Musk’s X over sexually explicit images – (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has condemned Elon Musk’s social media platform X, saying its AI chatbot Grok enabled the creation of sexually explicit images without consent, calling the practice “completely abhorrent”. Albanese said it was another example of social media platforms failing to show “social responsibility”, adding Australians and “global citizens deserve better”. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley backed action against AI-generated sexual images, saying the issue required the “strongest possible response”. The comments came as Australia’s eSafety Commissioner launched an investigation into nudify services and as international regulators moved to crack down on similar platforms. X has limited Grok’s image-generation tools to paying users, while regulators in Europe warned AI companies to stop producing sexualised images without consent.

#44 - Part 82

Child Sexual Abuse, Pedophilia, Human Trafficking and Satanism Investigations - Part 4

>>24119716 Video: Author Craig Silvey’s books pulled from stores after child exploitation charges – Australian booksellers, education departments and arts organisations have withdrawn works by author Craig Silvey following his arrest on child exploitation charges. Silvey, whose novels include Jasper Jones, Honeybee and Runt, remains in custody after failing to meet bail conditions totalling $200,000. Major retailers including Dymocks and Readings have removed his titles from sale, while other sellers have listed them as unavailable. State education authorities across New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia and Tasmania have instructed schools to stop using his books during court proceedings. A planned stage adaptation of Runt has been indefinitely paused, promotional activity has been cancelled by his publisher, and a Western Australian student writing competition has dropped his name. Officials stressed the allegations must be tested in court as legal processes continue.

>>24202030 ‘Good bloke’ defence scrapped for all NSW criminals in major move – New South Wales will become the first Australian state to abolish the use of “good character” references in sentencing for all convicted offenders, ending the long-standing practice of offenders seeking reduced penalties by pointing to prior behaviour. The reform goes beyond recent changes in the ACT and Queensland, which were limited to sexual offence cases. NSW Attorney-General Michael Daley said no offender should be able to “rely on being of ‘good character’ to mitigate the consequences of their criminal behaviour”, arguing survivors should not have to hear offenders praised in court. Victim advocates welcomed the move as a major step to reduce re-traumatisation and shift sentencing away from character testimony toward the harm caused by the crime itself.

>>24202126 Video: Former police officer charged over alleged role in satanic child abuse ring suspended from NSW Government job – A former NSW police sergeant has been suspended from his NSW Government role after being charged over alleged involvement in an international child abuse material network described by police as “devastating”. The former officer was arrested following a search at Sydney Olympic Park, where investigators allegedly seized electronic devices and small quantities of illicit drugs. He faces multiple charges relating to accessing, possessing and distributing child abuse material, as well as drug offences, and remains in custody after being denied bail. Police allege the offences occurred after he left the NSW Police Force and while employed at the NSW Telco Authority, which has confirmed his suspension. The investigation follows earlier arrests linked to the same alleged satanic child abuse network.

>>24214753 Video: Property manager Colin Milne charged with participating in satanic child abuse ring - Sydney property manager Colin Milne has been charged with 18 Commonwealth offences following a State Crime Command investigation into online networks allegedly distributing satanic ritualistic child abuse material. Prosecutors told the court the files were “extremely graphic, violent and depraved”, allegedly depicting infants, babies and children, and argued the offending involved “sophisticated” concealment techniques, including encrypted applications and virtual private networks. Authorities opposed bail, citing risks associated with cloud-stored material that could be remotely accessed or destroyed. Bail was refused, with the magistrate describing the content as “concerning and horrific” and indicating imprisonment was likely if the allegations were proven. Milne’s lawyer argued the volume did not represent the most serious category of offending and raised concerns about his client’s health and safety in custody. Police said Milne was the sixth NSW arrest, with 145 alleged overseas offenders identified.

#44 - Part 83

Child Sexual Abuse, Pedophilia, Human Trafficking and Satanism Investigations - Part 5

>>24231315 ‘Depraved’ Sydney satanic child abuse ring ‘the most extreme’ police have seen - (Video) NSW Police say a wide-ranging child exploitation investigation has revealed what detectives described as some of the “most extreme” and “depraved” abuse material encountered by specialist investigators, alleging a Sydney-based online network distributed child abuse content incorporating ritualistic or satanic themes. Strike Force Constantine, led by the State Crime Command’s Child Exploitation Internet Unit, has resulted in six arrests, with those charged facing multiple Commonwealth offences relating to the possession and transmission of child abuse material. Police allege the group employed encrypted applications, virtual private networks and cloud storage to conceal activity and avoid detection. Authorities said the investigation identified a significant international footprint, referring intelligence on 145 alleged overseas offenders to foreign law enforcement partners. Court proceedings underscored judicial concern about the “horrific” nature of the material, while inquiries remain ongoing in Australia and abroad.

>>24260283 Landmark high court ruling finds Catholic church had duty to protect NSW child from paedophile priest - The High Court has handed down a landmark decision in favour of a survivor known as AA, ruling that the Catholic Church’s Newcastle-Maitland diocese owed a non-delegable duty of care to protect him from abuse by priest Father Ron Pickin in 1969, when AA was 13. The judgment overturns earlier findings by the NSW Court of Appeal and establishes that institutions responsible for children cannot avoid liability by arguing they lacked specific knowledge of risk at the time. The court held the diocese was required to take reasonable care to prevent foreseeable harm, even where the abuse constituted intentional criminal conduct. Legal advocates say the ruling marks a significant shift in institutional liability for historical clergy abuse and is expected to influence future civil litigation by victim-survivors across Australia.

>>24260305 High Court finds Catholic Church liable for priest's sexual abuse but halves compensation – The High Court has ruled that the Catholic Church’s Maitland-Newcastle diocese is liable for the abuse of a 13-year-old boy by Father Ronald Pickin in the late 1960s, delivering a significant precedent for survivors pursuing compensation. The court accepted the priest committed the assaults in a Wallsend presbytery after supplying alcohol and cigarettes, and found the diocese owed a non-delegable duty of care to protect children under a priest’s supervision. The decision overcomes earlier legal barriers that prevented churches being held vicariously liable for clergy, who were deemed not to be formal employees. While the High Court awarded costs against the church, it reduced the man’s damages by half, lowering the payout to $335,920. The ruling is expected to influence legislative reforms and future civil claims involving institutions responsible for children.

>>24272797 NSW government employee charged over ‘violent’ child abuse posts – A senior NSW Premier’s Department employee, Cameron Spring, 43, has been refused bail after being charged with multiple child abuse material offences following an Australian Federal Police investigation triggered by a US child protection agency referral. Police allege Spring uploaded and shared violent child abuse imagery via online platforms over at least two years. He faces 30 charges, including using a carriage service to transmit and access child abuse material, grooming a person under 16, and larceny by a public servant. Authorities seized electronic devices during a 2025 search warrant for forensic analysis. A NSW government spokesperson confirmed Spring was suspended without pay the day charges were laid. The matter will return to Burwood Local Court in April.

>>24272801 University of Queensland economics head viewed child exploitation images on campus, charges allege – Daniel John Zizzo, 54, head of the School of Economics at the University of Queensland, has been remanded in custody after Queensland Police charged him with knowingly possessing child exploitation material, with the alleged offending said to have occurred on UQ’s St Lucia campus. UQ vice-chancellor Deborah Terry described the charge as very serious, confirmed the university was co-operating with investigators, and said the staff member was absent from campus, adding there was no indication any community member had been directly impacted. Zizzo, an Italian-American citizen and Australian permanent resident, has represented UQ at international academic events and exchanges, including engagements in China, India and Sri Lanka. Police said investigations remain ongoing.

#44 - Part 84

Child Sexual Abuse, Pedophilia, Human Trafficking and Satanism Investigations - Part 6

>>24272810 Queensland man accused of offering $730 to adopt and abuse overseas children – A 49-year-old Queensland man has been refused bail after being charged with multiple child exploitation offences following his arrest at Sydney Airport. Australian Federal Police allege child abuse material was found on his electronic devices after his luggage was searched on arrival. Investigators claim he offered 30,000 Philippine pesos, about $730, to third parties in the Philippines to arrange adoption of children for sexual purposes. He faces charges including possessing child abuse material outside Australia, using a carriage service to plan sexual activity with a person under 16, and procuring a child for sexual activity overseas. Police said forensic examinations and international inquiries are continuing. The matter is due back before Downing Centre Local Court in April.

>>24272813 Victoria passes landmark laws to close loophole blocking child abuse victims from suing – Victoria has passed retrospective legislation expanding vicarious liability laws, restoring the ability of child abuse survivors to sue institutions after a 2024 High Court ruling limited claims. The Bird v DP decision found institutions were not liable where perpetrators were not formal employees, effectively blocking actions against bodies linked to volunteers, clergy and others in non-employment roles. The new laws extend liability to relationships “akin to employment”, including volunteers and religious figures, and passed parliament unopposed. Advocates say the reform reopens claims left stalled by the ruling and prevents survivors being disadvantaged by narrow legal interpretations. Victoria joins the Australian Capital Territory in adopting similar measures, with campaigners urging other states to follow.

>>24289596 Video: ADF member who trained with neo-Nazis allegedly caught with child abuse and extremist material - An Australian Defence Force member has been refused bail after investigators allegedly discovered child abuse and neo-Nazi extremist material on devices seized from his Holsworthy Barracks accommodation. Jonathan Salter, 25, faces 13 charges including possession and distribution of child abuse material and possessing extremist content. Prosecutors allege his devices contained “extensive messages and files” supporting “white supremacy, Nazi ideology and violent extremism”, including material linked to the Christchurch massacre and Norwegian terrorist Anders Breivik. Police first identified Salter after he attended training gatherings with the National Socialist Network in 2024. Prosecutors told the NSW Supreme Court the material included “exceptionally serious examples” of child abuse involving very young children.

>>24289840 Paedophile principal preyed on children for years after complaints ignored - Victoria’s Department of Education faces potential further legal claims after revelations that Braybrook Primary School principal Richard George Ross continued abusing children for years after early complaints were not properly investigated. Four former students recently received $5 million in settlements after being sexually assaulted or photographed by Ross, who served as principal from 1969. Court documents allege Ross groomed and abused multiple boys, including assaults in the school darkroom, his office and at his home. Police discovered more than 3000 explicit images of children in Ross’ office in 1989, prompting his resignation. The department issued an apology for the abuse while lawyers warn more former students may pursue compensation claims.

>>24355021

Albanese confirms three Australians on US sub that sank Iranian ship

Matthew Knott and Nick Newling - March 6, 2026

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Anthony Albanese has been accused of misleading Australians about the nation’s involvement in the war between the United States and Iran after the prime minister confirmed that three Australians were aboard a nuclear-powered US submarine that sunk an Iranian frigate in the Indian Ocean near Sri Lanka.

The Australian submariners’ presence on the vessel has also sparked renewed debate about whether the nation is losing sovereignty by become so enmeshed with the US military through the AUKUS pact.

“We wouldn’t normally confirm such an issue, but given our NSC [National Security Committee of Cabinet] meetings and the public interest, I can confirm that there were three Australian persons on board that vessel. I can confirm also, though, that no Australian personnel have participated in any offensive action against Iran,” Albanese told Sky News on Friday.

Albanese insisted that the three Australian crew members played no active role in the sinking of the frigate IRIS Dena on Wednesday off India’s eastern coast.

The Australian Defence Force initially refused to confirm the presence of Australians on the submarine, saying only that for operational security reasons they did not disclose “specific details regarding third-country deployments, including the number of personnel or their location”.

Australia has been embedding crews on US nuclear submarines since 2023 as part of the AUKUS pact, hoping to send as many as 440 Australians below with US crews before it takes command of its own nuclear-powered vessels.

Albanese said the three Australians were gaining experience with allied militaries as part of the AUKUS pact.

“One of the big pluses behind the AUKUS arrangements is Australian personnel getting experience across a range of assets, including being onboard nuclear-powered submarines, but also the exchange that’s occurring across the board,” Albanese said.

“So it’s not just personnel, it’s engineers, it’s technicians, it’s people learning those skills, whether they be in the United States or the United Kingdom,” the prime minister said.

The Greens’ defence spokesman, David Shoebridge, said it was now obviously “a lie” that Australia is not involved in the attacks on Iran.

“It’s extraordinary that it has taken this long for the Australian government to admit at least some of the truth about Australia’s involvement in this illegal war by the United States in Israel on Iran,” Shoebridge said in a news conference.

“However, it is extraordinary that the prime minister, literally in the same sentence, said that Australian personnel were on a US nuclear attack-class submarine that struck and sunk an Iranian frigate but Australia is not directly involved in the war in Iran. These two facts cannot sit together in the same sentence. And what is becoming increasingly clear is that Labor’s statement since this war began, that Australia is not directly involved in the war, has been a lie.”

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>>24355021

‘Aussie, Aussie, Aussie’: Cheers after five Iranian players granted asylum after escape

Matthew Knott - March 10, 2026

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Five Iranian soccer players, including team captain Zahra Ghanbari, have been granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia after a daring escape from their minders at a Gold Coast hotel on Monday night.

“Once everything had been signed off last night, there were lots of photos, lots of celebrating, and then a spontaneous outbreak of Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, oi, oi oi,” a smiling Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke announced at a press conference at Brisbane Airport on Tuesday morning.

“These women are great athletes, great people, and they’re going to feel very much at home in Australia.”

Revealing that the government had been in secret talks with the players for days, Burke acknowledged that fleeing was a “difficult decision” and assured the remaining 15 or so members of the team that they would be welcome if they wished to stay.

“Even though the offer continues to be there for other members of the team, it is quite possible and indeed likely that not every woman in the team will make a decision to take up the opportunity that Australia would offer to them,” Burke said.

“What matters here is that they have the best agency they can over those decisions, and so we’re making sure that the opportunity to seek assistance is there. But I don’t want to begin to imagine how difficult that decision is for each of the individual women, but certainly last night, it was joy, it was relief, and people were very excited about embarking on a life in Australia.”

The five players – captain Zahra Ghanbari and teammates Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramezanizadeh, and Mona Hamoudi – are now under the protection of the Australian Federal Police and have given permission for their names and faces to be published.

They were condemned in Iran as traitors after they failed to sing the Iranian national anthem before their opening match of the Asian Cup, escalating moves to provide assistance because of the risk they would face serious punishment and possible executions once they returned.

Exiled crown prince Reza Palavi named the women as he paid tribute to them last night.

News of the matter prompted US President Donald Trump to intervene overnight, first by demanding on social media that Australia give the women asylum, and then by speaking with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

“He’s on it!” Trump posted after their conversation. “Five have already been taken care of, and the rest are on their way. Some, however, feel they must go back because they are worried about the safety of their families, including threats to those family members if they don’t return.

“In any event, the prime minister is doing a very good job having to do with this rather delicate situation.”

Less than two hours earlier, Trump had warned Albanese he would be making a “terrible humanitarian mistake” if he allowed the team to be forced back to Iran, and offered to give the women asylum in the US if Australia would not.

“Everyone is so happy for the girls. They would not have been safe if they went home,” said Shahzad Shirkhanzadeh, an active member of the Iranian-Australian community.

She praised the government for moving swiftly to ensure the players had the option to seek asylum in Australia before being forced to return to Iran.

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>>24355021

>>24363854

Tony Burke grants five Iranian footballers asylum as two players stay behind at team’s hotel

AMANDA HODGE - March 10, 2026

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Anthony Albanese has declared five defectors from the Iranian women’s football team are safe in their new home of Australia, and assured the other team members that help is here if they want it as a further two players split off from the rest of the squad.

A pair of suitcases were removed from the team’s bus shortly before the Iranians departed the Royal Pines Resort on the Gold Coast around 1pm. The Australian understands they belong to two players who have stayed behind at the hotel. Home Affairs minister Tony Burke’s office did not return calls from The Australian.

On Monday night, five women - including the squad’s captain Zahra Ghanbari and teammates Fatemeh Pasandideh, Zahra Sarbali, Atefeh Ramezanizadeh, and Mona Hamoudi - escaped the hotel with the help of Australian Federal Police, and broke out into chants of “Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, Oi, Oi, Oi” when they were told they could stay. The five players granted humanitarian visas are being held in a safe house in Brisbane.

On Tuesday afternoon, the Iranian team left the Gold Coast resort where they have been on lockdown for the past fortnight for the Asian Cup.

Around 11am local time, almost a dozen police officers gathered outside the doors of the Royal Pines Resort as staff and security watched on from inside the lobby.

Over the next hour, players, their coaches and team officials brought down their luggage to the drop off point. Some returned their room keys, while one handed a mobile phone back to the concierge.

One sportswoman could be heard wailing as she said goodbye to a supporter, who was then confronted by a team official. Police were called over to intervene.

“Shame on you,” the female supporter shouted at a suspected IRGC-aligned team member. Players were ushered back upstairs.

As this occurred, hotel staff loaded their bags into the awaiting bus.

The team, known as the Lionesses, had been staying at the resort throughout the football tournament, playing their opening match just days after the USA and Israel started a war with Iran.

During their stay, there were subjected to regime rule, under constant surveillance from its aligned officials and hired security.

Mr Burke, who was earlier in Brisbane to lead the assistance effort, said other members of the team are being offered the same chance to apply for asylum.

In Canberra, Mr Albanese said his government had been preparing for some time for the defections. “Australians have been moved by the plight of these safe women,” he said. “They are safe here and they are at home here. We are willing to provide assistance to other women in the team … we say to them: ‘If you want our help, help is here.’”

Mr Albanese had an early morning call with Donald Trump on Tuesday regarding the asylum issue. The call came amid the US President’s declaration that the Albanese government would be making a “terrible humanitarian mistake” if it let the soccer players leave with their Iranian regime handlers.

Mr Burke said conversations began in the “very early hours of yesterday morning”, and that a number of players were moved to a safe location by the AFP.

“Last night I met with them at that location. I signed off last night for their applications to go onto humanitarian visas. And a little bit after, the processing was completed by the Department of Home Affairs,” Mr Burke said on Tuesday morning.

“I say to the other members of the team, the same opportunity is there. Australia has taken the Iranian women’s soccer team into our hearts. These women are tremendously popular in Australia, but we realise they are in a terribly difficult situation with the decisions that they’re making.”

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>>24231295 (pb)

>>24253442 (pb)

‘I’m buggered and I’ve had enough’: David Littleproud quits as federal Nationals leader

GREG BROWN and ROSIE LEWIS - 10 March 2026

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Matt Canavan, Kevin Hogan and Bridget McKenzie will run to be the next Nationals leader, after David Littleproud stunned the party by revealing he would step aside because he was “buggered”.

Nationals sources on Tuesday evening said Senator Canavan, Mr Hogan and Senator McKenzie had declared their intention to run for the leadership at a special Nationals party room meeting to be held at 10am on Wednesday.

Former deputy prime minister Michael McCormack was also considering running according to sources.

Mr Hogan, the deputy ­Nationals leader, is expected to be supported by Mr Littleproud and was told of the pending ­resignation ahead of most ­Nationals MPs just before parliament’s question time on Tuesday afternoon.

Other Nationals MPs said they found out about the resignation when a statement was released to the party room just after question time. The move surprised most MPs given Mr Littleproud’s leadership was not under any immediate threat.

Mr Littleproud is leaving open the option of staying on the Coalition frontbench, with some Nationals sources suspecting he would push to retain the agriculture portfolio.

Mr Hogan revealed he would run for leader. “While still feeling David’s resignation as leader, after being approached by a number of my colleagues, I have formally put my hand up for the leadership position,” he said.

Senator Canavan, who will consider running for the lower-house seat of Capricornia at the next election if it is vacated by sitting member Michelle Landry, also said he planned to run.

The north Queenslander, who ran for the leadership against Mr Littleproud after the last election and was a key figure in the Coalition dumping net zero, said he would “put my case to my Nationals colleagues in the coming days”.

“I have consistently been against the excessive government spending and crazy net-zero policies that have left Australia with the highest inflation and interest rates in the developed world,” Senator Canavan said in a statement on social media platform X.

“I believe I have the best chance to help win the battle for an Australia first plan that can deliver a better life for all Australians.

Moderate Liberal MPs were petrified of the party’s chances in city seats if Senator Canavan prevailed, with one declaring it would be akin to being in Coalition with One Nation.

After a controversial tenure as leader that included two damaging splits with the Liberals and the resignations of high-profile MPs Barnaby Joyce and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, a teary Mr Littleproud claimed to be the most consequential Nationals leader since John McEwen. He said he shaped policy within the Coalition by opposing the voice and net zero.

Mr Littleproud pointed to intense criticism he received after the second Coalition split as a reason he had lost the energy to lead.

Nationals MPs believe contributing factors to him quitting would also include his unpopularity among Liberal MPs, the rise of One Nation, bad polling ahead of the Farrer by-election, residual pressure from the resignations of Nationals MPs and internal criticism.

Mr Littleproud said: “It’s not probably since John McEwen has a National Party leader had to stand up and show the courage of their character and their party room and stand for what their party room wants them to stand for. So I’m proud but I’m tired. I don’t intend to retire from parliament; I love the people of Maranoa. I’ve been a human punching bag for the last couple of months. At some point you have got to look after yourself.”

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>>24355021

>>24363854

>>24363902

>>24367769

Home Affairs Minister to halt entry of temporary visa holders who may seek asylum to Australia

SARAH ISON - March 10, 2026

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Labor will introduce new powers for the Home Affairs Minister to halt some temporary visa holders due to come to Australia and prevent a flood of people claiming asylum once they arrive, in a change that the government says is “vital” at a time of global upheaval.

As the government granted five Iranian football players asylum on Tuesday, it revealed just hours later that it was pursuing law changes that would “close loopholes” in the migration system.

Pointing to the prospect of non-citizens from countries like Iran coming to Australia on tourist visas and other temporary visa classes and then claiming asylum, Assistant Multicultural Affairs Minister Julian Hill said the new bill would ensure Australia could respond to “rapid international developments”.

“There are many temporary visa holders outside Australia holding a temporary right of entry to Australia, granted to support travel for a genuinely temporary purpose, like a holiday or attending a conference,” Mr Hill told parliament as he introduced the legislation to the lower house on Tuesday afternoon.

“The current situation in the Middle East demonstrates how quickly circumstances can change. That may impact whether those temporary visa holders fulfil that temporary purpose in Australia, including whether they would leave Australia should they travel here.

“In these circumstances, it is vital that the government can respond appropriately, including by placing temporary limitations on the ability of certain cohorts of non-citizens from travelling to Australia.”

Without the proposed legislative change, the only way the government can currently prevent travel to Australia by valid visa holders is to individually assess whether there are grounds to cancel each visa.

Mr Hill said this process was “not suited to responding efficiently to international conflict or other rapid international developments where thousands of visas may be affected simultaneously”.

“If a non-citizen’s temporary visa expires during the period of the determination, they are eligible to apply for a further visa,” Mr Hill said.

“The determination suspends travel to Australia while it is in force. It is not a bar on visa applications. Any new visa application would be appropriately considered having regard to the applicant’s circumstances and other relevant matters at that time.”

It follows a wave of Palestinians entering Australia on tourist visas after the escalation of the Middle East conflict in 2023, which was met with concerns from conservative political parties over the future of such cohorts.

To exercise the new powers, the Home Affairs Minister must be satisfied that it is in the national interest to do so.

The bill will not cancel anyone’s visa or refuse the grant of a visa application, instead only enforcing a temporary stay on individuals from some visa classes travelling to Australia.

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>>24363939

Matthew Canavan elected new Nationals leader after David Littleproud’s resignation

ROSIE LEWIS - 11 March 2026

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New Nationals leader Matt Canavan has put new coal-fired power stations and industry protection on his agenda, threatening a stoush with moderate Liberal MPs who are worried his elevation will further alienate the Coalition’s brand in cities.

Speaking in Canberra about a bill the Nationals are pushing in the Senate, Senator Canavan said coal-fired power was the cheapest form of baseload energy and that it was crucial those projects were eligible for government underwriting after the capacity investment scheme.

He said he would re-engage with the proponents of a junked proposal for a coal-fired power station in the north Queensland town of Collinsville, with that project put on ice in 2022 over Labor’s refusal to subsidise it.

“We need baseload power and we need to have a scheme that all power systems can compete,” Senator Canavan said.

“All the evidence, including the CSIRO evidence, is that coal-fired power remains the cheapest form of baseload power.”

Senator Canavan also suggested tariffs should be considered to protect Australian industry from cheaper Chinese imports.

“I’m very concerned about our steel fabrication industry. I’ve been to many businesses through regional Queensland, in particular, who are seeing their market share be completely undermined by Chinese imports,” Senator Canavan said.

“Clearly something needs to be done.

“Those steel industries have applications in right now with the Anti-Dumping Commission. I do think they need to be looked at very, very closely. But I also do think we need to rethink our approach here.

“Is the ad hoc, regular reviews of the Anti-Dumping Commission the right way to protect steel production and other types of manufacturing in our country for the long term?

“That has to be at the centre of us bringing self-sufficiency back to this country.”

When asked if protecting Australian industry should include tariffs, Senator Canavan said this was what the steel industry applications to the Anti-Dumping Commission were proposing.

“So we do have these ad hoc tariffs that come on from time to time,” he said.

“The problem we’ve got is we’re always slapping a Band-Aid on here, sometimes after the patient’s already died.

“We want Australian-made goods. There’s no reason we shouldn’t be able to compete. It’s clearly because China continues to massively subsidise its industry, and we shouldn’t let that expose Australian jobs to those sort of trade practices.”

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