crikey--2020-05-01--Coronavirus isolation precautions | What you need to know

Here 's what you should do if you have a confirmed case of coronavirus , you have come into contact with someone who has coronavirus , or you need to travel across state borders .
It may be difficult to fully understand the coronavirus isolation precautions that are currently in place , given we are inundated with new information about COVID-19 on a daily basis .
There are are a few instances in which you will need to go into isolation , or “ self-isolation ” .
If you have been advised to do so , or you are concerned @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to remain indoors and avoid contact with other people as much as possible for a minimum of 14 days .
Those who arrived in Australia after March 15 were required to self-isolate .
As Australia has shut down international arrivals , this period has passed for most people , however , those who need to cross state borders will also be required to self-isolate for 14 days in certain states .
• Coronavirus isolation precautions | You have come into contact with someone who has coronavirus • Coronavirus isolation precautions | You have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coronavirus , or you suspect you have coronavirus , but you are well enough to be treated at home , the Department of Health recommends self-isolation in the home , under the circumstances where : • You are well enough to receive care at home • You have appropriate caregivers at home • There is a separate bedroom where they can recover without sharing an immediate space with others • You have access to food and other necessities • You ( and anyone who lives in the same home ) have access to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a minimum , gloves and mask ) • You do not live with household members who may be at increased risk of complications from novel coronavirus infection ( e.g .
people over the age of 65 , young children , pregnant women , people who are immunocompromised or who have chronic heart , lung , or kidney conditions ) .
If you are in isolation but need to use communal spaces such as the bathroom , wear a mask and gloves when you leave the room you are isolating in .
Wipe down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and try to spend minimal time outside of your isolation zone .
If you are in isolation , you can not go to public places , even if it is for essential items .
You can not have visitors over to your house .
If you have a confirmed case of coronavirus and you need to travel to your isolation location , you should not take public transport as this puts the wider public at risk .
If you have no form of private transport and you have no choice but to take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minimum of 1.5 metres away from other passengers , cough/sneeze into your elbow and practice good hand hygiene .
Coronavirus isolation precautions | You have come into contact with someone who has a confirmed case of coronavirus If you are looking after a loved one who has a confirmed case of coronavirus , or you know you have been in close contact with someone who has coronavirus , you will need to self-isolate , and the same guidelines as above will apply to you .
The duration of your isolation will depend on @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be contacted by your public health unit who will confirm how long you will need to spend in isolation .
Coronavirus isolation precautions | You have travelled across state borders Some Australian states and territories have closed their borders , with minimal exceptions allowed for travelling across states , including : Victoria , New South Wales and the Australian Captial Territory do not have border restrictions in place at this time , however , you will be subject to the border rules of other states and territories .
Since April 3 , Queensland @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone , excluding essential workers and residents .
These border restrictions still remain in place ; to cross the border , you will need to hold a border pass or proof you are travelling for the purposes as outlined above .
To enter Western Australia you will need to agree to self-isolate for 14 days with proof you are capable of doing so .
The same guideline applies to South Australia , Tasmania and the Northern Territory .
Read : What are the signs and symptoms of coronavirus ?

It may be difficult to fully understand the coronavirus isolation precautions that are currently in place, given we are inundated with new information about COVID-19 on a daily basis.
There are are a few instances in which you will need to go into isolation, or “self-isolation”. If you have been advised to do so, or you are concerned you have coronavirus, you will need to remain indoors and avoid contact with other people as much as possible for a minimum of 14 days.
Those who arrived in Australia after March 15 were required to self-isolate. As Australia has shut down international arrivals, this period has passed for most people, however, those who need to cross state borders will also be required to self-isolate for 14 days in certain states.


crikey--2020-05-01--Obliging Deloitte delivers big union presence on Virgin creditors committee

Stephen Mayne founded Crikey in February 2000 , and has remained as a contributor since selling it in 2005 .
@ @ @ @ @ political staffer and local government councillor who also pursues shareholder advocacy as a two-time former @ @ @ @ @ ’ Association .
Stephen campaigns broadly for transparency , good governance and accountability across the @ @ @ @ @ sectors .
He also spent two years working for The Alliance for Gambling Reform and @ @ @ @ @ gambling industry .

What do the following 10 institutional members of the 32-strong Virgin Australia creditor’s committee have in common?
Association of Virgin Australia Group Pilots (VIPA)
Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU)
Australian Federation of Air Pilots (AFAP)
Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers (ALAEA)
Australian Manufacturing Workers Union (AMWU)
Australian Services Union (ASU)
Electrical Trades Union (ETU)
Flight Attendants Association of Australia (FAAA)
Skywest Airlines Pilots Association (SALPA)
Transport Workers Unions of Australia (TWU)
They are all registered trade unions or other types of employee representatives.
And how did they get such a big presence on the Virgin creditors committee?


crikey--2020-05-01--Is a new flavour of denialism taking hold at News Corp?

Charlie writes chiefly about industrial relations , politics , culture and social services .
Prior to Crikey he worked in @ @ @ @ @ unions and was a researcher for RN 's the Daily Planet .
He hosted the @ @ @ @ @ radio , and is a regular guest and occasional host on Breakfasters .
He spent @ @ @ @ @ , covering the fight for Tony Abbott '' s seat .

Thursday brought us a sober, thoughtful Greg Sheridan column in The Australian — “We know too little of COVID-19 to relax yet” — in which he observes that “the contradictory claims of commentators and non-government experts are bewildering”.
He does not specify which commentators or commentary he means, but his words are strikingly applicable to many of his colleagues across News Corp’s Australian outlets.
No one does denialism quite like News Corp, and many of the usual suspects have over the past few months taken the moves they learnt opposing action on climate change or attacking trans kids and simply shifted their focus to efforts to contain COVID-19.


crikey--2020-04-30--Clive Palmer can’t stop spending money on losers (and other news you may have missed)

Clive Palmer can ’ t stop spending money on losers ( and other news you may have missed ) Clive @ @ @ @ @ horses ( again ) .
Plus other stories of the week that slipped by .

‘Bad for what ails ya!‘
At the moment Clive Palmer is best known as the nation’s premier old-timey medicine show proprietor, taking out full-page ads trumpeting his purchase of stockpiles of the Trump-approved COVID-19 not-cure hydroxychloroquine, which is currently dazzling researchers with its failure to show any therapeutic benefit beyond hastening the deaths of US veterans suffering from the virus.
But the triumph of having his advertisements cleared by the Therapeutic Goods Administration is a rare win for the man who, it turns out, spent over half a million dollars backing five candidates in the recent Queensland local elections which ended in victory for exactly none of them.
Most notably, Palmer’s attempt to install rugby league legend Greg Dowling as mayor of Townsville cost him an impressive $102,833.33, garnering almost 16,000 votes at around $40 a pop. Which is pretty expensive, especially since Dowling didn’t come close to the 46,691 votes by the actual winner: incumbent mayor and long time Palmer bête noire Jenny Hill.


crikey--2020-04-30--How do you get coronavirus? Plus steps to reduce your risk

How is do you get coronavirus and what steps can you take to reduce your risk ?
How do you get coronavirus ?
Today we want to bring you the facts around how you can contract COVID-19 , as well as the steps you can take to reduce your risk of contracting the virus .
• How do you get coronavirus ?
• Steps to reduce your risk of contracting coronavirus How do you get coronavirus ?
Coronavirus is spread through respiratory droplets .
Coronavirus enters the body through the mucous membranes on your face .
In this instance , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , nose and mouth .
You can contract coronavirus via : • Contact with infected droplets when a person is speaking to you , or heavily exhales near you • Sharing items that come into contact with your eyes , nose or mouth such as eating utensils , cosmetics or a handkerchief with an infected person • Touching a contaminated surface and then touching your eyes , nose or mouth • Being within one metre of someone who is infected with the virus and breathing in the same air .
As the name @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is a virus .
Viruses are the most common and numerous biological entities on earth .
Viruses require a host to live , which means they rely on living organisms to reproduce , grow and survive .
A way to think about the spread of coronavirus since the outbreak in Wuhan , China , last January is to imagine you are playing paintball .
Each day when you leave the house , you are free of any paint traces .
The more time you spend in busy public places , or with people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with , the more paint you will find on your clothes .
This paint is not necessarily infected but each time we come into contact with busy places and people , we are increasing the likelihood of becoming infected with coronavirus , and spreading the virus to other people .
The paintball analogy is not to scare you but it does illustrate how the virus easily spreads quickly across the world , and the steps that need to be taken to slow the spread of the virus .
There are a myriad of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how coronavirus is spread .
The latest myth claims coronavirus can be passed through 5G mobile networks and radio waves .
Steps to reduce your risk of contracting coronavirus • Do not touch your face • Cough and sneeze into your elbow .
I am not sure we , as adults , ever thought we would see a day when we were being targeted with educational videos on how to properly wash our hands .
Viruses can live on the body for hours or days , and soap is the most effective way @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lipid membrane that encompasses the virus .
Soap , hot water and 20 seconds of washing is enough to break down the virus membranes and prevent it from entering the body .
Alcohol-containing soaps , gels , creams and disinfectants are a reasonable option if you are on the go .
With all of this time spent indoors , there is no excuse not to practice good domestic hygiene .
Remember the paintball analogy .
If you are bringing items into the house , especially fresh produce that may have been handled by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that you are thoroughly washing these goods before consuming them .
Consider taking your shoes off and leaving them at the door .
According to the ABC , high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs , kitchen worktops and tables should be disinfected twice a day .
These measures might seem extreme , however , we know that viruses can live on surfaces from a few hours , up to several days .
No exceptions can be made to the current social distancing guidelines that have been set out .
Bear in mind that the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where possible , the faster we will be able to resume life as we once knew it , or something that least resembles life as we knew it .
Every time you do need to leave the home , aim to keep the expedition as brief as possible .
It ’ s the only sure thing that has been working to slow the spread of coronavirus since the outbreak started .
Do not touch your face Remember , coronavirus enters the body through your eyes , nose and mouth .
Whether your studying @ @ @ @ @ @ @ reminding yourself to not touch your face .
Write it on a post-it , put a reminder on your phone , just don ’ t touch your face .
Cough and sneeze into your elbow If you are displaying symptoms of a cold or flu , such as coughing or sneezing , try not the panic ; it may just be a cold or the flu .
( Read : What are the symptoms of coronavirus . )
Make sure you cough and sneeze into your elbow and not your hands .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ feel uncertain about what ’ s coming in the future .
Take solace that we are all in the same boat .
The best way to slow the spread of coronavirus is to act as a community , follow the guidelines set out , and for the love of Crikey , keep washing your hands .
Read : What are the signs and symptoms of coronavirus ?

Go deeper on the issues that matter.
Become a subscriber to get full access to the website, as well as our premium newsletters.


crikey--2020-04-30--How long does coronavirus last on surfaces?

How long does coronavirus last on surfaces ?
We talk you through the findings of a recent study that uncovers the stability of coronavirus on various materials over different time periods .
Our journalism usually sits behind a paywall , but we believe this is the time to make more of our content freely available to as many readers as possible .
For more free coverage , sign up to COVID-19 Watch Coronavirus can last on surfaces from three hours to seven days , according to a recent study that sought to uncover the stability of the COVID-19 virus .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the length of time the COVID-19 virus will remain on surfaces depends on a number of conditions , such as the texture of the surface , surrounding humidity and temperature .
How long does coronavirus last on surfaces ?
• Coronavirus can remain stable while airborne for three hours • Coronavirus can live on copper surfaces for four hours • Coronavirus can live on cardboard for 24 hours • Coronavirus can live on plastic for two to three days • Coronavirus can live on stainless steel for two to three days .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Stability of SARS-CoV-2 as Compared with SARS-CoV-1 ” , sought to replicate a scenario in which the virus contaminates materials that make up home and hospitals settings .
An infected individual contaminated the surfaces through coughing or touching the materials as mentioned above .
The scientists then measured the length of time the virus was still live and transmissible .
The findings of the study highlight the detrimental effects casual contact with objects can have , especially in areas that have high footfall , such as supermarkets .
In light of the findings @ @ @ @ @ @ @ disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces in the home ; avoiding close contact with people who are sick ; staying home if you are sick , regardless of whether you think it may be coronavirus or not ; and safely disposing of tissues and other items used to wipe the mucous membranes of the face , such as the eyes , nose and mouth .
While more research needs to be carried out to fully understand the nature of coronavirus , the cited study highlights a need to regularly clean your surroundings .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ recommends the following : • Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces on a daily basis .
Examples of high-touch surfaces include doorknobs , kitchen tables , handles , electronic handheld devices , keyboards , light switches and toilets • Launder clothes and bedclothes at a high water temperature where possible • If there is an infected person in the household , ensure they are isolated in one area .
Read : How is coronavirus spread ?
Plus steps to reduce your risk

Coronavirus can last on surfaces from three hours to seven days, according to a recent study that sought to uncover the stability of the COVID-19 virus.
According to the World Health Organization, the length of time the COVID-19 virus will remain on surfaces depends on a number of conditions, such as the texture of the surface, surrounding humidity and temperature.
How long does coronavirus last on surfaces?
Coronavirus can remain stable while airborne for three hours
Coronavirus can live on copper surfaces for four hours
Coronavirus can live on cardboard for 24 hours
Coronavirus can live on plastic for two to three days
Coronavirus can live on stainless steel for two to three days.
The study, titled “Aerosol and Surface Stability of SARS-CoV-2 as Compared with SARS-CoV-1”, sought to replicate a scenario in which the virus contaminates materials that make up home and hospitals settings. An infected individual contaminated the surfaces through coughing or touching the materials as mentioned above. The scientists then measured the length of time the virus was still live and transmissible.


crikey--2020-05-01--How to diagnose coronavirus | Myths and facts

How do you diagnose coronavirus ?
We can confirm that holding your breath is not a credible method .
How do you diagnose coronavirus ?
There are lots of myths in circulation , including one about holding your breath to test lung capacity .
Here are the facts on how to diagnose coronavirus , plus some of the most common myths and corresponding facts around COVID-19 .
The only way to accurately diagnose coronavirus is via a viral or antibody test : • A viral test tells you if you currently have coronavirus • An antibody test tells you if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ majority of people who are recovering or have recovered from coronavirus will display mild symptoms that will go away with rest and adequate recovery .
If you have symptoms , you are worried and you want to get tested , you should seek medical advice .
You can do this by calling the Coronavirus Helpline on 1800 020 080 .
Alternatively , you should call your doctor ahead of time to book an appointment and arrange a test .
Bear in mind that to get tested , you need to meet some of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ been in close contact with someone who has been diagnosed with coronavirus in the last 14 days • You are a health care , aged care or residential care worker • You live in an area that has been classified as “ high risk ” by your local public health unit • You are in hospital .
If you are residing in what is classified as a “ high risk ” setting , and more than two people are displaying symptoms , you will also need to be tested .
Fact : There @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or any other drugs can cure coronavirus at this time .
Myth : Spraying disinfectant or bleach on your body will eradicate the virus .
Fact : Ingesting or spraying household disinfectants or bleach on the skin will not eradicate the virus , and it could be harmful to your health .
Myth : Coronavirus can be transmitted through insects .
Fact : There is no evidence to suggest coronavirus can be transmitted through insects .
Coronavirus is transmitted through respiratory droplets from an infected person , and by touching contaminated services .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : Temperatures higher than 25 degrees can eliminate the virus .
Fact : Higher temperatures do not lower your risk of contracting coronavirus .
Washing your hands and social distancing have been the most effective methods of lowering one ’ s risk to date .
Myth : If you get coronavirus , you will have it for life .
Fact : The majority of people who have contracted coronavirus have eliminated the virus and made a full recovery .
While there is still no cure , most people recover after adequate rest .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ symptoms of coronavirus ?

How do you diagnose coronavirus? There are lots of myths in circulation, including one about holding your breath to test lung capacity.
Here are the facts on how to diagnose coronavirus, plus some of the most common myths and corresponding facts around COVID-19.
How to diagnose coronavirus
The only way to accurately diagnose coronavirus is via a viral or antibody test:


crikey--2020-05-01--The right’s attacks on Victorian health official show their failure and desperation

The right ’ s attacks on Victorian health official show their failure and desperation The attack on Dr van Diemen @ @ @ @ @ destructive character assassination , driven by bitterness at their own irrelevance .
The ideological right @ @ @ @ @ self-defeating attack on , and `` calls '' for the resignation of , Victorian deputy @ @ @ @ @ Diemen , represents a new low for this political formation in the period of COVID-19 @

The ideological right’s absurd, pathetic and self-defeating attack on, and “calls” for the resignation of, Victorian deputy chief medical officer Annaliese van Diemen, represents a new low for this political formation in the period of COVID-19.
Like many I’ve been by turns bewildered and amused by the absolutely tin-eared, cack-handed way the Australian ideological right have played this historical moment.
As the country came together to make the sacrifice of lockdowns, with a widespread understanding of why it had to occur, a strong emphasis on shared burden, and a pride in achieving an exceptionally low death rate — and a lowered risk to health-care workers — the ideological right’s interventions have been a mix of adolescent poseurism, intellectual bad faith, and petulant time wasting.


crikey--2020-05-01--Turnbull offers a story of the glitz, glamour and superficiality of the city that made him

Like the city he comes from , Malcolm Turnbull 's autobiography offers an exciting and glamorous ride , but reveals little beneath the surface .
Malcolm Turnbull ’ s A Bigger Picture is , perhaps , the great Sydney novel .
Describing the rise to power of an eastern suburbs boy from a broken home , via a who ’ s who of Sydney from the 1960s to now , it ’ s an astonishing tale , characterised by an almost complete lack of insight into its remarkable cast of characters , including the hero .
In a way , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ credentials even greater : as many have said about the city itself over the decades , it ’ s all about surface , with little penetration to what ’ s really going on underneath .
Of all the political figures of recent decades , Turnbull ’ s autobiography is the closest to a must-read , because Turnbull is about so much more than politics .
Forget the political careerism of Rudd and Gillard , or John Howard ’ s decades in public life .
He is a remarkable figure , one of those @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them in a novel , you ’ d be derided for being unrealistic .
His multiple careers , and extraordinary achievements in each of them — Spycatcher ; hundreds of millions from investment banking ; consigliere to the likes of Kerry Packer ; prime minister — could fill a book each , or already have .
And Sydney is central to Turnbull ’ s story .
With family roots back almost to the British invasion , he is educated at Sydney Grammar and Sydney University ( located where an ancestor was bailed up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is littered with names that mark Sydney ’ s history : Jack Lang , Neville Wran , John Singleton , Packer , Warwick Fairfax , Paul Keating , Bob Carr , the Hughes family that he marries into .
The political colleagues that feature most prominently are primarily from Sydney — John Howard , the hapless Brendan Nelson , his nemesis Tony Abbott , Joe Hockey , the ultimately double-dealing policy airhead Scott Morrison .
Indeed , the best part is Turnbull ’ s description of his childhood and youth in the eastern @ @ @ @ @ @ @ beach visits and bus routes .
If you can ’ t quite smell the exhaust from an old Atlantean double decker bus , you can still be transported to mid-century Sydney as Turnbull navigates a lonely childhood with a single father who works hard enough to give him a GPS education .
Indeed , as Nick Whitlam pointed out in his review , we could have done with more from this period of young Turnbull ’ s life .
Whitlam notes , with great perspicacity , that Turnbull ’ s father Bruce “ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , more Bondi or Maroubra than Vaucluse ” .
The difference won ’ t be clear to people from outside the eastern suburbs , but it is vast , and significant .
Turnbull adores his father — he seemed to tear up when talking about him in his 7.30 interview .
Bruce ’ s death in 1982 in an aircraft accident is a colossal blow to his son , at that stage beginning his own family with the love of his life , Lucy .
How his unusual relationship with his single father @ @ @ @ @ @ @ than paternal , shaped him is never explored — especially what role it played in one of Turnbull ’ s most remarkable skills , the ability to cultivate close professional relationships with older , powerful men .
“ Occasionally , a little voice in the back of my brain would ask , ‘ Why are these grown-ups listening to me ? '
” is the closest the hero of the book comes either to imposter syndrome or to discussing why he is able to apparently charm those able to give him a further @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time , other capitals .
Indeed , that ’ s a persistent theme .
Turnbull ’ s remarkable tale is all on the surface .
He is lucky ( as he himself readily admitted in one of the best Question Time answers I ’ ve ever heard ) , he cultivates powerful people , he works hard — his work ethic is remarkable ; his university years are for practising journalism while doing his law degree with John O ’ Sullivan ’ s lecture notes , not drinking at Manning Bar , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ though thwarted by a strike at The Times .
And everything he touches , at least until the republic referendum , turns to gold .
But as plenty of critics have noted , there is much that is missing from Turnbull ’ s account of his various adventures , and not just the famous handing of notes to the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal ’ s Peter Westaway to get Packer thrown out of the Tourang consortium .
And everyone outside Turnbull ’ s family are a poorly drawn ensemble serving as a backdrop to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stunning failures .
There ’ s a recurring theme of key people who , at least according to A Bigger Picture , become disaffected with Turnbull , to the latter ’ s complete surprise and bewilderment .
Whitlam has dealt with his own example expertly .
Another is Andrew Robb , whose rebellion on Turnbull ’ s deal with Kevin Rudd on the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme is portrayed as an act of inexplicable treachery , a “ despicable ambush ” .
“ Many people have subsequently sought to excuse Robb on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ doesn ’ t explain the deliberateness of his actions , ” Turnbull says , rather cruelly .
Except that Robb had by the time of that partyroom meeting long indicated his deep unhappiness with Turnbull ’ s leadership style and tendency to treat those who dared disagree with him with scathing contempt .
And the nearest Turnbull comes to acknowledging that his personal style in his first leadership stint was problematic is in the aftermath of its loss , when he enters a profound , almost suicidal depression ( exacerbated by his self-loathing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) .
He emerges “ less self-absorbed , perhaps less ambitious , certainly more forgiving of others and of myself .
Glad to be alive.
” What role this more Zen-like political persona plays in Turnbull ’ s failings when he returns to the leadership is a question that Turnbull , again , provides little insight on ( Whitlam , fascinatingly , suggests that a calmer , more collaborative Turnbull failed where the more ferocious earlier version of Turnbull would have smashed through on key issues like climate action ) .
We thus @ @ @ @ @ @ @ himself as we get into the supporting cast .
Perhaps this is how he is presenting himself in his autobiography ; perhaps he really did lack insight ; he claims that , until he lost the leadership in 2009 , he never really paid attention to his mental health .
And , yes , it ’ s true that Turnbull ’ s generation of Australian men were raised in , and had modelled for them by their fathers , a “ suck it up ” approach to mental health issues , but it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a man as brilliant and forensic as Turnbull .
A Bigger Picture thus turns out to have a staggering plot , but little insight into the motivations and mental worlds of its characters , including its remarkable hero .
Nor does it examine the power of the individuals concerned too closely .
Turnbull has wielded power and been on the receiving end of others — usually media moguls — wielding it .
He laments the malign influence of fossil fuel donors on the climate debate , and how China ’ s repeated attempts @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life shifted his views toward trying to regulate foreign influence .
But as I ’ ve noted elsewhere , he remains consciously silent on the nature and structure of power in Australia and the economics that underpin it .
Perhaps an autobiography wasn ’ t the place for such an analysis , but Turnbull has personified various forms of power for four decades .
His story is inseparable from it .
Beneath the sun-drenched , hedonistic surface of the harbour city , financial , political , media and criminal power has always swirled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ co-conspirators , business partners , public officials , moguls and factional rivals .
A guide to that world from one who has plumbed many of its murky depths would be an immensely valuable book .
Perhaps in another decade or two , and with time for more reflection , Turnbull will provide it .

Malcolm Turnbull’s A Bigger Picture is, perhaps, the great Sydney novel.
Describing the rise to power of an eastern suburbs boy from a broken home, via a who’s who of Sydney from the 1960s to now, it’s an astonishing tale, characterised by an almost complete lack of insight into its remarkable cast of characters, including the hero.
In a way, though, this only makes its Sydney credentials even greater: as many have said about the city itself over the decades, it’s all about surface, with little penetration to what’s really going on underneath.


crikey--2020-05-04--Minister chafes under the burden of partisan lockdown — and the lack of a parliament to flush out di

Minister chafes under the burden of partisan lockdown — and the lack of a parliament to flush out dispute

After weeks of enforced bipartisanship , politicians are chafing at political lockdown .
And some unions have never bothered with @ @ @ @ @ on Dan Tehan 's Sunday morning attack on Daniel Andrews , and his subsequent humiliating @ @ @ @ @ that the education minister spoke out of turn and was told to pull his head @ @ @ @ @ Morrison .
That story was quickly briefed out to journalists in the wake of Tehan @ @ @ @ @ for a `` failure of leadership '' and taking a sledgehammer to education .

The official line on Dan Tehan’s Sunday morning attack on Daniel Andrews, and his subsequent humiliating withdrawal of it, is that the education minister spoke out of turn and was told to pull his head in by an anguished Scott Morrison. That story was quickly briefed out to journalists in the wake of Tehan using Insiders to attack Andrews for a “failure of leadership” and taking a sledgehammer to education.
The alternative version is that Morrison and his office put Tehan up to it, but the ensuing backlash forced them to throw Tehan under a bus — especially with news of a school infection in Victoria emerging, with immaculate timing, shortly after Tehan delivered his spray.
It’s perfectly possible both versions are correct, though — Tehan was encouraged to give the Victorians a touch-up, but went too far, especially when he got personal and attacked Andrews, who remains popular with Victorians despite his ludicrously draconian lockdown measures.


crikey--2020-05-03--‘Gullible’ pollies being fooled by the Catholic Church? A former PM thinks so

Malcolm Turnbull ’ s talks with church leaders reveal what is wrong with private school funding .
Former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull has detailed private conversations with a Catholic Church leader to substantiate claims that the church has been duplicitous and unaccountable in distributing taxpayer money within its school system .
The vivid revelations in a chapter in Turnbull ’ s memoir A Bigger Picture have reopened the debate about needs-based funding of Australia ’ s schools , in particular , disadvantaged Catholic schools .
Government money is received by the Catholic system in one big cheque but , according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on the basis of educational need , but to keep school fees lower in middle-class schools to enhance enrolments and maintain “ market share ” against public and independent schools .
Former NSW education minister , Adrian Piccoli ( Nationals ) now director of the Gonski Institute for Education , said Turnbull ’ s account of 2017 conversations with the Archbishop of Sydney , Anthony Fisher , vindicated his own public complaints about the use of taxpayer funds within the Catholic schools system .
“ Malcolm is right , they had us all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and unethical , ” Piccoli said .
Archbishop Fisher ’ s office was emailed to check the accuracy of the Turnbull version .
A spokeswoman responded : “ The Archbishop doesn ’ t comment on private conversations ” .
Turnbull persuaded David Gonski , an old school friend and fellow merchant banker , to appear at his press conference with his then-education minister Simon Birmingham to announce his government would follow Gonski ’ s formula for schools funding to be allocated on the basis of need .
Gonski chaired a groundbreaking inquiry into @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and had been anointed a “ secular saint ” by Labor and the education unions to the political disadvantage of his LNP Coalition government , Turnbull wrote .
While not going as far in funding as the Bill Shorten-led Labor Party , the Turnbull government ’ s formula hit a snag with the Catholic Church , which had enjoyed what was called a “ system weighted average ” that reflected the average socio-economic circumstances across the whole school system , as opposed to assessing each school and funding it accordingly .
“ Over @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Pell , had always insisted the virtue of funding the Catholic schools in one lump sum , as a system , was that they could cross-subsidise the poorer schools at the expense of those in the wealthier suburbs , ” Turnbull wrote .
“ And this claim seemed so plausible , given the church ’ s mission , that none of us gullible politicians questioned it.
” Turnbull said he discerned from conversations and correspondence with Archbishop Fisher the “ reverse was the case ” .
“ He [ Fisher ] explained that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ model was that more funding would go to schools in ‘ the poorer outer suburbs of Sydney and country New South Wales ’ .
“ I was astonished .
‘ But don ’ t you do that now ?
’ There was a long pause .
‘ Malcolm if your reforms go through , it would mean the fees of St Francis ’ school in Paddington , would have to go up ’ .
Turnbull writes that parents of St Francis , with excellent education results in his Wentworth electorate , would be @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that .
“ The archbishop sighed .
‘ I am afraid to say , on this occasion , the politician has a more idealised view of human nature than the archbishop ’ .
” Turnbull wrote that he explained that government funding would still come to the church in one cheque but transparency was required .
“ If they wanted to subsidise fees in posh areas at the expense of schools in poor areas , they were free to do that .
‘ Oh , come on , Malcolm , ’ said Fisher @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tell people how the government has assessed need and shown how much each school would get , we could never get away with it .
People would say we were short-changing poor schools to benefit the rich ones ’ .
” Turnbull wrote that at one point Archbishop Fisher argued schools in his Wentworth electorate were needier “ because the parents had bigger mortgages ” .
The exchanges with Archbishop Fisher were some of the most “ unedifying and disappointing ” Turnbull had undertaken with a church leader .
“ This was the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ transparency and accountability and wasn ’ t prepared publicly to defend how they moved government money around their school system.
” Turnbull concluded he could only assume that the objective of the Catholic system was to maintain enrolments in middle-class areas by keeping fees lower .
While not denying Turnbull ’ s version of the conversations , a spokeswoman for Archbishop Fisher said : “ The abiding principle for the mission of Catholic education is that it should be accessible and affordable to all parents , who want their children to receive a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ financial burden many families face and , as such , offer the lowest fees possible .
“ Our schools are currently assisting many families with either a reduction in their fees or cancellation due to the current coronavirus-induced economic downturn as we have with those affected by the bushfires and drought in regional areas.
” Professor Piccoli said unaccountable Catholic schools funding prevailed to this day .
“ While they are fixing it , they are fixing it progressively .
Reducing funding to non-government schools is politically very difficult .
I did it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ my job , ” he said .
“ So the reason the Catholics were giving high SES ( socio-economic status ) schools more money than they were entitled to under needs-based funding had nothing to do with need .
“ It had everything to do with keeping market share in wealthy suburbs .
I thought that was pretty disgusting.
” This article is republished with permission from The New Daily .

Former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull has detailed private conversations with a Catholic Church leader to substantiate claims that the church has been duplicitous and unaccountable in distributing taxpayer money within its school system.
The vivid revelations in a chapter in Turnbull’s memoir A Bigger Picture have reopened the debate about needs-based funding of Australia’s schools, in particular, disadvantaged Catholic schools.
Government money is received by the Catholic system in one big cheque but, according to Turnbull, is distributed, not on the basis of educational need, but to keep school fees lower in middle-class schools to enhance enrolments and maintain “market share” against public and independent schools.


crikey--2020-05-03--Exploited, undocumented migrant farm workers fear being caught in next wave

Before joining Crikey in 2018 , Kishor was an editor of the University of Sydney ’ s student paper Honi @ @ @ @ @ The Sydney Morning Herald on the state news beat , a casual legal reporter for @ @ @ @ @ Law and Journalism , and a research assistant at the Australian Human Rights Commission .
@ @ @ @ @ he is completing a law degree at the University of Sydney .
Kishor will be @ @ @ @ @ immigration , race and religion .

What Yaya saw on the farms should make you scared.
“I used to work with a contractor who underpaid me,” she said. “I saw a lot of bad things happen on the farm. No hygiene, no security, no toilet and no place to wash your hands.”
For five months, the migrant worker from Malaysia (who declined to give her full name) picked fruit and vegetables in farms across Victoria. Now she’s worried about the safety of migrant workers during the pandemic. Like in Singapore, they could be hit hard by a second virus wave.


crikey--2020-05-03--Pandemic reveals the costly flaws in our vocational education

Pandemic reveals the costly flaws in our vocational education We all know schools and universities are struggling , but TAFEs @ @ @ @ @ the same problems — with much less money .
Much of the focus on the @ @ @ @ @ is falling on schools and universities , but the vocational education and training ( VET @ @ @ @ @ suffering through many of the same problems .

Much of the focus on the educational impact of the coronavirus is falling on schools and universities, but the vocational education and training (VET) sector is also quietly suffering through many of the same problems.
And just like in universities, the crisis is revealing bigger faults in the system.
VET is ‘not equipped’ for this
“The way we’ve designed the system isn’t equipped for what potentially comes over the next few years,” Peter Hurley, policy fellow at education policy think tank the Mitchell Institute told Crikey. “It just doesn’t take into account the possible permutations of the post-COVID-19 world.”


crikey--2020-05-04--‘Dangerously overlooked’:  disability support workers push for higher pay

Disability support workers working with clients who have , or are being tested for , COVID-19 , should be paid @ @ @ @ @ unions say .
Disability support workers have been `` dangerously overlooked '' in the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ an extra hourly rate for looking after clients infected with , or suspected of having @ @ @ @ @ .

Disability support workers have been “dangerously overlooked” in the pandemic response and should be paid an extra hourly rate for looking after clients infected with, or suspected of having, COVID-19, unions say.
The Fair Work Commission this morning heard an application from the Australian Service Union, Health Services Union and United Workers Union asking for an extra $4.94 an hour for carers with clients who had contracted COVID-19 or were waiting for test results.
The unions cited a commissioned report conducted by the University of NSW (UNSW) which surveyed more than 2300 disability workers. The report found workers were anxious about their safety, facing additional workload caring for vulnerable clients, and losing shifts during the pandemic.


crikey--2020-05-04--Peter Dutton once again proves he’s Australia’s most powerful person

Peter Dutton once again proves he ’ s Australia ’ s most powerful person With his decision to allow the @ @ @ @ @ into Australia , the home affairs minister has once again demonstrated his considerable power .
@ @ @ @ @ to show who is in charge when it comes to deciding who comes and goes @ @ @

Peter Dutton is not afraid to show who is in charge when it comes to deciding who comes and goes in Australia.
In the case of letting the New Zealand Warriors NRL team into the country amid a lockdown, the Home Affairs minister has once again proven he’s the one calling the shots.
On Sunday Dutton’s office confirmed that the Australian Border Force (ABF) had granted the Warriors special permission to come to Australia.


crikey--2020-05-04--Lockdowns eased around the globe as Queensland heads back to school

As Australia sees light at the end of the tunnel, Crikey scans the globe to see where efforts to relax lockdowns are at.
Meanwhile, the US has opened up many states despite reporting a record death toll as recently as last Friday — which raises the question, what’s happening in countries with organised despots, and who are the primary victims?
School’s back in Queensland
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk this morning announced a partial reopening of schools starting from next week. Kindergarten, prep, and Years 1, 11 and 12 will return to school on May 11. Palaszczuk added that if everything goes to plan, all students will return to classrooms from May 25.


crikey--2020-05-04--Temporary migration curb will terrify neoliberals and place new strains on old-school politics

Temporary migration curb will terrify neoliberals and place new strains on old-school politics The coming debate over the resumption of @ @ @ @ @ against each other .
Migration , and particularly temporary migration , is emerging as a @ @ @ @ @ of the post-pandemic Australian economy , and the idea is deeply worrying to business and @ @ @ @

Migration, and particularly temporary migration, is emerging as a key issue in the shape of the post-pandemic Australian economy, and the idea is deeply worrying to business and supporters of neoliberalism.
Kristina Keneally’s weekend suggestion that post-pandemic migration policy should be different to our pre-virus emphasis on high permanent and temporary migration induced an immediate and hysterical reaction today from the Financial Review, which accused her of sounding like Pauline Hanson.
The froth-mouthed reaction from the editor of the AFR is informative, however — it illustrates just how crucial high immigration is for neoliberalism.


crikey--2020-05-05--Taking out the trash: what our leaders are sneaking through while we focus on COVID-19

While most Australians have been watching a movie called Contagion 2, our leaders have been pushing through changes to federal and state laws and regulations which in normal times might have caused them some political trouble.
So, just in case you missed it, here is our second short summary of what’s been going on while you’ve been in glorious isolation.
Pub demerits in NSW
Pubs and clubs in New South Wales may be forced to shut down for up to two week if they repeatedly breach new liquor laws, while “well-managed venues” will be given discounted licensing fees under a new demerit points system for the industry.


crikey--2020-05-05--Closed borders and dwindling migration spell an uncertain future for Australian horticulture

Labor’s immigration spokeswoman Kristina Keneally is calling for restrictions on temporary migration in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic to “put Australians First”. But the horticulture industry is a sign of why it might not be as simple as tightening borders.
Australia’s fruit and vegetable sector is highly dependent on cheap, often underpaid and undocumented migrant labourers. As Crikey reported yesterday, many of these workers are worried unsafe working and living conditions put them at risk of infection.
But with global instability, tightening borders and a lack of movement, Australia’s dependence on these workers could be tested and deepened


crikey--2020-05-04--Don’t fool yourself: normal life isn’t coming back any time soon

Don ’ t fool yourself : normal life isn ’ t coming back any time soon We know it deep @ @ @ @ @ do n't want to admit it : reopening Australia carries with it a terrible risk @ @ @ @ @ the COVID-19 period in Australia has begun -- a stage which largely consists of believing @ @ @ @ @ next stage in the COVID-19 period has begun .

The next stage of the COVID-19 period in Australia has begun — a stage which largely consists of believing, erroneously, that the next stage in the COVID-19 period has begun.
Having locked down nationwide with a great deal of collective commitment and solidarity, no-one really mentioned the prospect of reopening for a few weeks, save for a section of the now discredited ideological right and a few “anti-politics” whackos on Twitter.
But now that the rate of infection, serious symptoms and death has been slowed and is on the way to being flattened — for the moment — the talk of reopening the economy has begun. And once started, in Australia, it has started to take off, and to propagate the illusion that we will soon be stepping back into our old life, wholly unchanged, powering along, going to all the restaurants tralala.


crikey--2020-05-04--It’s the message, stupid: stop the spread of ‘untelligence’ or face dire consequences

People are n't stupid .
It 's more likely they 're victims to this spreading plague of misinformation and confusion .
Issue managers and communication professionals have to deal with them every day : people who seem to genuinely believe ideas about science and technology that are simply wrong .
And social media helps spread this “ untelligence ” at breakneck speed to potentially influence millions .
However , this is not just about a witty neologism .
“ Untelligence ” concerns a much more fundamental problem which inhibits informed discussion and can not be dismissed as simply another manifestation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ concepts or nuanced medical issues is hard enough .
But it is made even harder when millions of people are influenced by false information and anti-science .
And it ’ s certainly not helped when , for example , the president of the United States declares that noise from windfarms causes cancer ( it doesn ’ t ) or suggests injecting disinfectant may be a treatment for coronavirus ( it isn ’ t ) .
So how does this “ untelligence ” spread ?
We know from research at MIT that false news @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stories which are independently verified .
And we know from research at Iowa State that Russian trolls have deliberately planted anti-GMO messages around the world as part of a campaign to inflame divisive issues in the West to promote distrust of government , large corporations and experts .
Indeed , The New York Times says Russia has also been very active in promoting the anti-5G conspiracy .
Yet it ’ s all too easy to blame outsiders .
The news media is also at least partly to blame for the promotion of non-scientific @ @ @ @ @ @ @ they devote space to the efforts by rapper B.o.B .
to prove the Earth is flat .
But it can have real consequences .
Think back to when the Australian media lionised fake wellness blogger Belle Gibson and gave her a national platform to promote the dangerous lie that she used diet to cure her own cancer .
Or when the American media made a business hero of Elizabeth Holmes , CEO of Theranos , which cost investors millions when their claimed revolutionary ’ s new blood-testing technique proved to be a fraud @ @ @ @ @ @ @ know that believers in false cures and false information about the virus crisis are risking their own lives and the lives of others around them .
For issue managers and science communicators , combatting false information is a daily responsibility which can not be addressed by finger-pointing , no matter how satisfying that might be .
It needs planned and persistent challenge and rebuttal .
And never forget : the public are generally not stupid .
More likely , they are just wrong-headed or victims of “ untelligence ” .
This story is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a newsletter for people who work in issue and crisis management .
Tony Jaques is the director of Issue Outcomes .

Issue managers and communication professionals have to deal with them every day: people who seem to genuinely believe ideas about science and technology that are simply wrong. And social media helps spread this “untelligence” at breakneck speed to potentially influence millions.
However, this is not just about a witty neologism. “Untelligence” concerns a much more fundamental problem which inhibits informed discussion and cannot be dismissed as simply another manifestation of fake news.


crikey--2020-05-04--Social distancing update: Victoria

Social distancing update: Victoria

Here is the latest on coronavirus social distancing rules in Victoria .
This article will be updated on a regular basis to keep you informed .
On April 11 , it was announced the state of emergency in Victoria would be extended by a further four weeks .
Victorians are expecting an update on the state of coronavirus lockdowns next week , on May 11 .
Here is the latest update on : • What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
Unlike New South Wales , social distancing rules in Victoria have remained the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Residents may leave the house for four essential reasons , which include : • Shopping for food and other necessary goods and services • Accessing medical services or provide caregiving .
This includes shared parenting obligations , or providing care and support to an unwell , disabled , elderly or pregnant friend or relative • Attending work or education where you can ’ t do those things from home Exceptions to the above rules include : • Leaving the home as a requirement of the law • Leaving the home because you can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because you are moving to a new premises • Leaving the home because you normally live outside of Victoria • Leaving the home because you are permitted to leave Australia and you are migrating • Leaving the home to attend weddings or funerals with social distancing measures in place .
Term two will see students continuing to learn from home .
At present 97 % of Victorian state schools are closed .
There will be no clear indication of when workplaces will reopen until at least May 11 .
As it stands , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offices in which the work can be performed remotely .
If you are a business owner and unsure about where you stand , you can call the Business Victoria hotline on 13 22 15 .
The Business Victoria team will be able to provide you with the latest information and guidelines on which businesses can remain open and how to keep these workplaces safe .
There are no limits on how far you can travel within Victoria , however , you need to have an essential reason to be travelling , and Victorians @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expeditions outside of the home .
If you are using private modes of transport , social distancing rules apply and you should only travel with members of your household .
Public transport is still active , however , passengers are asked to avoid travelling during peak hours if they need to get to school or work .
While on public transport , passengers are asked to maintain social distancing and wash their hands thoroughly before and after using public transport .
There are no restrictions on crossing Victoria ’ s border , however @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will apply to you if you cross them and you need to have a reasonable reason to travel .
• Cafes and restaurants for takeaway only • Universities and TAFEs , although many have resorted to online lectures What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
Victoria Police has been given the power to issue on the spot fines of up to $ 1,652 for individuals and up to $ 9,913 for businesses who refuse or fail to comply with the Chief Health Officer ’ s and Deputy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or public health risk directions .
On the spot fines are at the discretion of police officers .
Read : What is the unemployment rate in Australia ?

Victoria was supposed to be further reducing coronavirus restrictions today, June 22.
Following the latest outbreak throughout Victoria, the roll-out of fewer social distancing restrictions is being quickly rolled back in.
Here is the latest update on:


crikey--2020-05-05--Download if you will but the COVIDSafe app is not a condom — or even sunscreen

Glib tech solutions to complex problems rarely work as well as their spruikers claim , and bring other problems in their wake .
So it is proving with the government 's contract tracing app .
There are very likely a substantial number of Australians , particularly older , less technologically literate people , who have downloaded the government ’ s surveillance app in the belief that it will actually protect them against COVID-19 infection — that the app itself will somehow deliver prophylactic benefit .
The government has strongly encouraged this misapprehension by constantly linking the app and safety .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ : COVIDSafe .
Downloading the app “ makes the country safe for you ” , chief medical officer Brendan Murphy said .
The app will deliver a “ COVID safe environment ” according to the prime minister .
“ The higher the number of people who have downloaded COVIDSafe app , then the safer you are.
” The PM even compared the app to sunblock .
“ Slip , slop , slap the app.
” This was wilful and cynical deception by the government , encouraging people to download the app in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , acting like a sunblock for the virus — unless , of course , the prime minister and chief medical officer don ’ t understand the most basic science and themselves think the app will prevent infection .
The fact that the app won ’ t even be doing the job it is supposed to be doing for another week , and has a fundamental problem on iPhones anyway , makes the government ’ s deception particularly shameful .
Still , terrifying some elderly people into downloading the app , or terrifying them @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t download it or anything else , is worth it , right , because of what the app will deliver ?
Except , the app won ’ t deliver much .
It will generate large numbers of false positives and false negatives — the person on the other side of a wall from you for 15 minutes who tests positive , the long-gone supermarket shopper whose COVID-19 you acquire .
What it will deliver , primarily , is a false sense of security for people and a sense that something is being @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , is standard for technological solutionism .
That ’ s the belief that a social or economic problem can be solved at a stroke , or maybe a keystroke , with some great new piece of tech , without anyone having to make hard decisions or undergo sacrifices .
It ’ s the inflation of micro-level solutions — a particular tool will help me with a problem or address a need of mine — to complex , macro- , global-level problems .
Worried about climate change ?
Carbon capture and storage will solve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power and not worry .
No actual change needed , no restructuring of carbon-intensive industry or energy networks , no price signal or tax .
Worried about terrorism or crime ?
Facial recognition will address it .
Concerned about resource access ?
The Internet of Things will solve it .
Congestion ?
Pollution ?
Health problems ?
Artificial intelligence will fix them .
Algorithms .
Big data .
There isn ’ t a problem that Big Data hasn ’ t been claimed to offer a solution for .
The current era of tech @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the digital age , when the internet was going to bring down dictatorships , rather than enable them to better surveil their populations ( and I speak as a former internet evangelist myself ) .
As becomes obvious quickly , the spruikers of tech solutions are the ones with the most to gain from unthinking embrace of their creations .
That ’ s why tech solutions is so closely linked to Silicon Valley and tech entrepreneurs .
But they find willing believers among policymakers because they invariably offer shortcuts to problems that otherwise @ @ @ @ @ @ @ harm to vested interests to resolve .
They peddle win-win outcomes in which problems are fixed without anyone having to incur a cost .
That ’ s exactly what the government is offering at the moment : download the app and we can immediately revert to life before the pandemic , without further lockdown , economic cost or inconvenience .
Technological solutionism , though , comes with recurring features , all of which have been demonstrated by the Morrison government ’ s surveillance app .
First , simple solutions rarely work as well @ @ @ @ @ @ @ unlike Morrison and Murphy , they don ’ t misrepresent the tech .
The surveillance app doesn ’ t help protect against the virus , to state the obvious , nor does it provide a good guide to whether someone may have been infected .
It merely provides more information for people tasked with tracing possible contacts of an infected person , but much of that information may be entirely spurious .
Just as getting access to communications metadata has flooded law enforcement with useless data that often complicates investigations , the app @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will likely provides a large volume of useless information , while missing crucial pieces of data .
Second , they cause unintended consequences and downstream effects .
One consequence of the app is that people , believing the app exercises some magical prophylactic effect , will be less inclined to protect themselves through measures we know work — social distancing , regular handwashing , better public hygiene .
Result : a greater chance of infection .
Third , tech discriminates because it is made by humans who discriminate , consciously and unconsciously .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ and AI by Silicon Valley engineers are well known — Google has even devoted extensive resources to trying to address them .
The app discriminates against the technologically illiterate , or those who can ’ t afford a smart phone — or , as it turns out , iPhone users .
And fourth , many tech solutions , offered as positive solutions to real problems , become vehicles for serious problems themselves .
Personal data-based tech contains inherent risks to privacy that mean even the most innocuous applications can , in the wrong @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ends .
Our own government has misused innocuous data collections like personal information of welfare recipients .
The power provided by data proves irresistible to those already in power .
The old saying that if something sounds too good to be true , it almost certainly is , applies more than ever in a world of self-interested tech spruikers and lazy governments .

There are very likely a substantial number of Australians, particularly older, less technologically literate people, who have downloaded the government’s surveillance app in the belief that it will actually protect them against COVID-19 infection — that the app itself will somehow deliver prophylactic benefit.
The government has strongly encouraged this misapprehension by constantly linking the app and safety. It’s in the very name: COVIDSafe.
Downloading the app “makes the country safe for you”, chief medical officer Brendan Murphy said. The app will deliver a “COVID safe environment” according to the prime minister. “The higher the number of people who have downloaded COVIDSafe app, then the safer you are.” The PM even compared the app to sunblock. “Slip, slop, slap the app.”


crikey--2020-05-06--News Corp missing in action as pokies shutdown saves gamblers more than $1.5bn

Stephen Mayne founded Crikey in February 2000 , and has remained as a contributor since selling it in 2005 .
@ @ @ @ @ political staffer and local government councillor who also pursues shareholder advocacy as a two-time former @ @ @ @ @ ’ Association .
Stephen campaigns broadly for transparency , good governance and accountability across the @ @ @ @ @ sectors .
He also spent two years working for The Alliance for Gambling Reform and @ @ @ @ @ gambling industry .

As the Alliance for Gambling Reform noted yesterday, gamblers have now saved an estimated $1.5 billion since Australia’s nearly 200,000 poker machines were shut down on March 23.
The earliest reopening for the industry, which extracts a staggering $14 billion a year from gamblers, is likely to be in Northern Territory pubs on May 15.
The politically powerful industry is pushing for an early return in other states too in what will be an interesting test of the lobbying ability of pubs, clubs and casinos.


crikey--2020-05-05--A doctor’s note: don’t dream it’s over — the crisis may only be beginning

A doctor ’ s note : don ’ t dream it ’ s over — the crisis may only be @ @ @ @ @ an end to lockdowns , it 's wise to remember that Australia has been the @ @ @ @ @ luck may run out .
“ I dream of eggs , ” said one caller @ @ @ @ @ just being able to sit in a café and order eggs .
”

“I dream of eggs,” said one caller. “Nothing fancy, just being able to sit in a café and order eggs.”
I’ve heard others bemoan the absence of football, or their golf game, or the simple act of hugging their grandkids.
Rugby League is, of course, way ahead, dreaming of restarting the season before you can say kebab-on-a-park-bench.


crikey--2020-05-06--Coronavirus statistics | When will the lockdown end?

How long will the coronavirus lockdown last ?
It ’ s the question at the back of all our minds .
Today , Crikey presents the coronavirus statistics that may be help predict when lockdowns will be a thing of the past .
Brendan Murphy has expressed optimism that Australians will continue to flatten the curve if social distancing rules are observed , particularly this Easter weekend .
The latest coronavirus statistics may help us to answer two popular questions that we find ourselves asking this week .
• Are we actually flattening the curve ?
Are we flattening the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of COVID-19 continues to grow across Australia , the rate of growth has slowed .
Here are the coronavirus statistics you need to know right now .
( These statistics will be updated on a daily basis to keep you informed . )
• There are 6,849 confirmed coronavirus cases across Australia • 5,889 people have recovered from the virus to date • The current death toll of coronavirus is 96 When will the coronavirus lockdown end ?
How long will the coronavirus lockdown last in Australia ?
It ’ s the question @ @ @ @ @ @ @ minds .
Here ’ s what we know : • The coronavirus lockdown may last for an average of 10 weeks , based on the only real example we have : Wuhan , China • To date , China is the only country that has taken hold of the rapidly rising number of COVID-19 cases in its population , with lockdown restrictions now being lifted and life reportedly returning to normal • Thirty-one provinces across China have been affected by coronavirus , with lockdowns ranging from four to 10 weeks .
According to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two-part formula for predicting a potential reduction in COVID-19 cases : • On average , it takes approximately seven days to see a change in the daily number of coronavirus cases .
The seven-day period starts from day one of each individual correctly self-isolating • Those who are carrying the virus but are nonsymptomatic require an extended period of time between recognising their symptoms , to getting tested and receiving their results .
For individuals who are critically unwell , it takes approximately 11 days between diagnosis and treatment to see a potential @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spread of the coronavirus is slowing across Australia , and this is largely due to the travel restrictions and closure of non-essential business implemented by the federal and state governments .
An end to the lockdowns will largely depend on Australians following guidelines as put forward by medical professionals and governments .
While cases of COVID-19 may be slowing right now , there is concern around the possibility of local transmission , and public non-adherence to social distancing rules .
The latest coronavirus statistics as cited above will determine when lockdown will end @ @ @ @ @ @ @ life may slowly return to normal and lockdown restrictions may loosen .
New South Wales Police Commissioner Mick Fuller says current enforcement laws are set to expire this coming June , and as it stands , he will not seek to expand them .
Health Minister Greg Hunt has reportedly said the lockdown , or some restrictions that are currently in place , could stand for at least six months .
With the majority of Australian states now in stage three lockdowns this week , it is only natural we are asking ourselves @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will I be able to return to work ?
• When will restaurants , bars and hairdressers open once again ?
• When can I go to the supermarket without worry ?
When will Australia ’ s coronavirus lockdown end ?
At this point , the answer is not clear .
It took 10 weeks for the epicentre of the virus to reportedly recover , and that may be the number we need to use to manage our expectations .
Read : What are the symptoms of coronavirus ?

Brendan Murphy has expressed optimism that Australians will continue to flatten the curve if social distancing rules are observed, particularly this Easter weekend. The latest coronavirus statistics may help us to answer two popular questions that we find ourselves asking this week.
Are we actually flattening the curve? When will coronavirus lockdown end?
Are we flattening the curve?
While the number of cases of COVID-19 continues to grow across Australia, the rate of growth has slowed.
Here are the coronavirus statistics you need to know right now. (These statistics will be updated on a daily basis to keep you informed.)


crikey--2020-05-06--Just what the hell is going on in Eden-Monaro?

Eden-Monaro in southern NSW has always been a funny electorate.
For years it was the perennial bellwether seat, before Labor’s Mike Kelly reclaimed it in 2016, having first held it from 2007 to 2013. Since Kelly announced his retirement last week it’s provided a return to pre-COVID political drama as the Coalition tries to work out who to run in the seat.
Just days ago two prominent state politicians — NSW deputy premier John Barilaro and Transport Minister Andrew Constance — were both being talked about as potential candidates. Now they’re both out of the race.


crikey--2020-05-06--Social distancing update: Tasmania

Social distancing update: Tasmania

Here is the latest on coronavirus social distancing rules in Tasmania .
This article will be updated regularly to keep you informed .
Social distancing rules in Tasmania — as laid out by the Tasmanian government on April 14 — are still in place following a coronavirus outbreak in north-west Tasmania .
Here is the latest update on : • What businesses are closed in Tasmania ?
• What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
Currently , Tasmanians can leave their homes for the following reasons : • Facilitating shared parenting arrangements , guardianship @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Attending work , volunteering , school and study , where it can not be done remotely • Taking a pet to a veterinarian or providing reasonable measures to ensure the welfare of an animal • Performing essential maintenance on another premises owned by them • Launching a boat in the same municipal area as their primary residence .
Social distancing rules in Tasmania are similar to New South Wales and Victoria , although the state ’ s rules have been more lenient throughout lockdown .
For instance , Tasmanians are still allowed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree , provided they follow responsible social distancing guidelines , such as good personal hygiene and a physical distance of 1.5 metres from other people .
Tasmanians are also allowed to exercise horses , go boating , hunting , fishing and surfing , as long as the two-person rule is adhered to .
Exceptions to the above “ essential ” reasons to leave the home include : • Leaving the house due to fear of harm or risk of injury • Leaving the home due to an emergency • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friend or relative • Leaving the home on compassionate grounds , such as providing care to a loved one • Leaving the home to visit a cemetery if it is open • Leaving the home to attend a funeral , where up to 10 people are present , or a wedding , where up to five people are present • Leaving the home to stay with a partner • Leaving the home to help a friend move house The Tasmanian government is urging students to continue learning from home unless they need to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s north-west reopened on May 4 , following a three-week lockdown that came in the wake of a coronavirus outbreak at the North West Regional Hospital .
According to the Tasmanian government , “ keeping children at home and supporting their learning where possible is the best thing we can do to support Tasmania ’ s response to COVID-19 ” .
Educational arrangements in Tasmania will be reviewed on a regular basis and parents will be updated on any changes .
Currently , there are no updates on businesses reopening and work @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the north-west of Tasmania may lead to further delays in restrictions being lifted in Tasmania .
Tasmania , like Victoria , New South Wales and Australian Capital Territory , does not have border restrictions in place , however , those who cross the Tasmanian border will be subject to the restrictions of surrounding states .
If you are entering Tasmania from another state , you will need to self-isolate for 14 days .
Buses and coaches in Tasmania are still operating and are currently free of charge to limit physical contact between @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is required for those who need to use public transport , which includes staying 1.5 metres away from fellow passengers and washing your hands before and after your journey .
Greencards for the metro have been free of charge since March 26 , and will continue to be so until May 31 , to encourage cashless transactions .
School buses are also still in action while the number of students taking them is low .
What businesses are closed in Tasmania ?
The following businesses and facilities have been instructed to close by @ @ @ @ @ @ @ where alcohol is sold for consumption on the premises • Community facilities , such as halls , clubs and RSLs • Food courts , except for delivery and takeaway • Local government non-essential facilities and services , such as libraries and pools What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
The Tasmanian state emergency service , Australian defence members and fire service volunteers are currently carrying out spot checks across Tasmania .
On-the-spot penalties could be fines of up to $ 16,800 , or six months in jail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will the lockdown end ?

Social distancing in Tasmania began to ease on May 18, on commencement of stage one of the recovery plan.
Since May 18, up to 5 people can visit a household and 10 people can meet in public indoor and outdoor settings.
Here is the latest update on:


crikey--2020-05-06--A guide to just what the hell is going on with the Nats

Smack in the middle of COVID-19 smashing its way through the country , the Coalition 's junior partner decides to smash its way through itself .
It ’ s almost impressive .
We are in the middle of the worst global pandemic for 100 years and at the same time Mike Kelly ’ s retirement means there is a real chance of the Coalition snatching the seat of Eden-Monaro back from Labor .
And yet the Nationals is are still managing some Olympic level infighting .
After what he saw as Michael McCormack ’ s “ lack of public enthusiasm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the New South Wales Deputy Premier , John Barilaro , sent the federal Nationals leader a scathing text : How does this happen ?
Crikey runs an eye over the network of national party alliances and infighting seemingly endemic in the party .
It ’ s understood that McCormack was not keen on having a figure as volatile as Barilaro in his federal party room .
And honestly , who can blame him ?
His leadership is already groaning under the weight of party infighting .
So many of the Nationals ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , intra-party fights with the Liberals , and insensible horniness — emanate from what we at Crikey like to call “ the Barnaby Joyce of it all ” .
The consistency of National Party infighting is no different .
The last leadership spill happened only in early February .
In 2020 time , three months ago really is another era , huh ?
The failure to knock off McCormack revealed ( or is that re-revealed ) several ruptures inside the party .
Although it wouldn ’ t reveal the numbers — so we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ came — the former Nationals leader clearly thought he was a contender .
Joyce was supported by … Matt Canavan : the two are close allies .
( They even have a podcast together where they forecast the end of their own political party !
Classic ! )
Canavan quit his position in cabinet to support Joyce ’ s coup attempt .
Afterwards he pledged his commitment to McCormack .
The leadership spill came about after the resignation of … Queensland Senator Llew O ’ Brien , a long time Barnaby supporter who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the LNP but vacated the Nationals ’ party room ) and called the spill .
He was praised at the time by … Ken O ’ Dowd , who said he was impressed O ’ Brien “ had the balls to do it ” .
When the Labor Party pulled a decent bit of skulduggery to vote O ’ Brien up as deputy speaker , O ’ Dowd then went ahead and voted against the party line — despite being deputy whip , meaning his job was to keep everyone toeing the party @ @ @ @ @ @ @ endeared him to … Damian Drum , the man he was supposed to vote for .
Drum has been a public backer of McCormack — and slammed Barilaro this morning in the Oz .
This is much quieter .
McCormack ’ s key backers include NSW MP Mark Coulton , who became Minister for Regional Health , Regional Communications and Local Government in the post-spill reshuffle .
Another , Andrew Gee , got promoted to the outer ministry with responsibilities for regional education and decentralisation .
One of the few high-profile Nats to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ McCormack has been David Littleproud .
He rebuffed Joyce ’ s offer to be on his ticket , won the ballot to become deputy leader , and took back the agriculture portfolio after Bridget McKenzie ’ s sports rorts forced her resignation .
But as the AFR wrote in a fairly positive profile , if questions remain over McCormack ’ s leadership ( narrator : they absolutely will ) , Littleproud will “ inevitably have to make the call between being loyal deputy or challenger ” .
If you come for the king @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
However , if you come for McCormack and miss , everyone just assumes you ’ ll try again .
As for Eden-Monaro , who knows ?
Andrew Constance , the Liberal who had benefited from McCormack ’ s unwillingness to push for Barilaro , shocked everyone by pulling out less than 24 hours after accepting the nomination .
This would appear to leave a clear run for another Coalition troublemaker , Liberal Senator Jim Molan .
As for the Nats ’ next move , only a fool would dare attempt a prediction @

It’s almost impressive. We are in the middle of the worst global pandemic for 100 years and at the same time Mike Kelly’s retirement means there is a real chance of the Coalition snatching the seat of Eden-Monaro back from Labor.
And yet the Nationals is are still managing some Olympic level infighting.
After what he saw as Michael McCormack’s “lack of public enthusiasm” for his bid for the seat, the New South Wales Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, sent the federal Nationals leader a scathing text:


crikey--2020-05-06--Social distancing update: Queensland

Social distancing update: Queensland

Here is the latest on coronavirus social distancing rules in Queensland .
This article will be updated regularly to keep you informed .
Social distancing rules in Queensland were altered on May 2 to allow for shopping for non-essential items and recreational activities .
Here is the latest update on : • What businesses are allowed to reopen in Queensland ?
• What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
From May 2 , those living in Queensland can now : • Have two visitors over to their homes at a time • Participate in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homes , such as going for a picnic , visiting a national park , and driving a privately owned car , motorcycle , jet ski or other vehicle for the purpose of enjoyment • Visit the doctor , health care services or hospitals for purposes other than coronavirus .
In public places , the two-person rule is still in effect , which means you can not have group gatherings in public places , but you can meet one other person when you leave home .
As it stands , Queenslanders can now leave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ • Engaging in recreational activities within 50km of home • Attaining essential goods or services , such as grocery shopping or picking up a medical prescription • Taking your children to their place of education or childcare From May 11 , Queensland state school students in kindergarten , prep , Year 1 , Year 11 and Year 12 , will be able to return to school and community kindergartens .
Students in years two through to 10 will continue learning from home unless their circumstances mean that they can not .
These students @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on May 25 if transmission rates remain low .
Social distancing will continue as restrictions and school closures begin to be eased back .
Schools will : • Use larger , alternative locations or classrooms within the school • Stagger lunch breaks , start and finish times , and other activities to reduce the volume of movement .
The easing of restrictions in state schools will be closely assessed and changes will be implemented should there be any negative fallout from schools reopening .
While a number of non-essential businesses may begin to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a definitive answer on when most Queenslanders will return to work .
It has been hypothesised that workplaces will not all be open and fully functional before all schools are open .
The success of all schools reopening rests on low , or no , coronavirus transmission rates , so getting back to work will depend on how schools fare .
From March 25 , Queensland closed its borders and only Queensland residents , residents of border communities undertaking essential activities , and those considered an ‘ exempt person ’ , are allowed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , rail or road from another state or territory .
These restrictions are still in place , however , Queensland residents can now travel 50 kilometres from their homes for enjoyment , as opposed to necessity .
What businesses are allowed to reopen in Queensland ?
• Spa and massage parlours ( provided by health practitioners registered under the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law ) What will stay the same ?
All businesses that remained open during the coronavirus lockdown , such as those that were deemed as essential services , will continue @ @ @ @ @ @ @ distancing rules are still in place .
Weddings may still only be attended by five people and funerals may be attended by 10 people .
Those in attendance of both will need to adhere to the one-person-per-four-square-metres rule .
What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
Despite restrictions being eased in Queensland , police officers still have the power to issue on-the-spot-fines for a breach of the rules that are still in place .
Fines for individuals are $ 1,334.50 and fines for corporations are $ 6,672.50 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are ten times the fines cited .
Read : When will offices reopen ?
The end of WFH

Social distancing in Queensland began to ease on May 15 with stage one of the recovery roadmap.
Here is the latest update on:
Social distancing in Queensland
Education
Work
Travel
What businesses are allowed to reopen in Queensland?
What are the fines if you don’t follow the rules?
Social distancing in Queensland
As of May 15, the following is allowed:


crikey--2020-05-06--Some may call it hypocrisy but Turnbull can turn on a dime

In his post-prime ministerial activist mode , Malcolm Turnbull is striking positions somewhat at odds with his time in politics @ @ @ @ @ , and clichéd , criticism to make of Malcolm Turnbull that would n't it be @ @ @ @ @ been in a position to actually implement so many of his wonderful progressive ideas like @ @ @

It’s an easy, and clichéd, criticism to make of Malcolm Turnbull that wouldn’t it be wonderful if he’d ever been in a position to actually implement so many of his wonderful progressive ideas like climate action.
But while the leather jacket has yet to make a reappearance, the post-prime ministerial “activist” Turnbull is providing plenty of fodder for harsh contrasts between his views now and his actions while in power.
At the weekend Turnbull was moved to castigate conservatives baying for the blood of Victoria’s Deputy Chief Health Officer, Annaliese van Diemen, over her comparison of the pandemic with the diseases brought by white invaders.


crikey--2020-05-06--The Queen sends royal wishes… though she called New Zealand first

Amber has been a reporter for The Age , writer for ABC Comedy ’ s Tonightly , and creator of @ @ @ @ @ .
She was awarded the Jacoby-Walkley scholarship in 2018 , and was an Associate Producer @ @ @ @

The Queen has called Prime Minister Scott Morrison to send good wishes, and a poll shows Australians support strict aged-care visitor restrictions as the death toll in Newmarch aged-care home rises to 16.
Royal wishes
Last night the Queen called Morrison to wish Australia well in dealing not only with coronavirus and the bushfires but also drought recovery.
She was pleased to hear the horse races were still on — albeit with strict social distancing protocols for jockeys and trainers, and with no spectators.


crikey--2020-05-06--Elderly in lockdown denied key services: meals, haircuts,  therapists

Inq has heard cases of meal services being cancelled , limited grooming and a denial of visitations from health specialists @ @ @ @ @ elderly die of COVID-19 in aged-care homes each day , many residences have gone into @ @ @ @ @ stop the virus 's spread among Australia 's most vulnerable .

As more of our elderly die of COVID-19 in aged-care homes each day, many residences have gone into strict lockdown to try to stop the virus’s spread among Australia’s most vulnerable.
At Newmarch House in Kingswood, in Sydney’s west, for example, another person died on Tuesday morning, taking the total deaths there to 16.
So lockdowns are a vital weapon in the fight against coronavirus. But in some homes they have also meant crucial services have been slashed.


crikey--2020-05-07--Un-appy, Scott: flaws and inconsistencies start to mount for troubled surveillance app

Un-appy , Scott : flaws and inconsistencies start to mount for troubled surveillance app The haste with which the government @ @ @ @ @ app means flaws are now emerging that could be exploited by stalkers and domestic abusers @ @ @ @ @ to download the Morrison government 's surveillance app for it to be effective in helping @ @ @ @ @ people who have tested positive for COVID-19 ?

How many Australians have to download the Morrison government’s surveillance app for it to be effective in helping health authorities trace contacts of people who have tested positive for COVID-19?
At least 40% of the population, says Scott Morrison.
Not 40%, say bureaucrats from the Department of Health. In fact, they hadn’t suggested a target at all, they told a Senate committee hearing yesterday. The 40% figure seems to be an invention with no public health basis, despite the prime minister’s certainty. On current download rates, the app is unlikely to reach Morrison’s benchmark any time soon.


crikey--2020-05-06--What would cause a second wave of COVID-19 in Australia — and how do we avoid it?

This morning the head of the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned that countries relaxing their coronavirus restrictions too quickly could cause a surge in cases and a return to lockdown.
In Italy, modelling suggests that even a small “return to normal” with just a 20% increase in mobility could trigger a second wave which might claim more lives than the first.
There are three factors that could cause a second wave of COVID-19 in Australia. Here’s what they are.


crikey--2020-05-07--Social distancing update: Western Australia

Here is the latest on coronavirus social distancing rules in Western Australia .
This article will be updated on a regular basis to keep you informed .
Western Australia has seen the most significant easing of coronavirus social distancing rules across Australia .
Since April 27 , the number of people allowed to attend indoor and outdoor gatherings has increased to 10 people from the previous two-person rule .
Here is the latest update on : • What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
Up to 10 people can now convene in indoor and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ long as responsible social distancing is maintained .
Residents of Western Australia are allowed to leave the home for recreational activities such as picnics , camping , fishing and boating .
The number of people who can attend weddings and funerals has increased from five to 10 people .
At present , all other restrictions are still in place .
This means all public playgrounds , skateparks and outdoor gyms will remain closed .
Restaurants , cafes , food courts and food vans are still restricted , with takeaway and delivery services the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ deliveries will need to maintain the four-square-metre rule .
The Western Australian government says the public should continue to practice social distancing responsibly .
Reasons Western Australians are permitted to leave their homes include : • Exercising , including outdoor personal training ( up to 10 people ) without shared equipment • Working , training or university studies , where remote learning is unavailable • Non-contact recreational activities , such as private picnics in the park , fishing , boating , hiking and camping — all in compliance with travel restrictions and the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ village openings , with appropriate record-keeping and hygiene practices in place , and in compliance with the 10-person rule .
Public schools in Western Australia have been open since April 29 , with Years 11 and 12 strongly recommended to attend classes , although the decision for students to return to school is at the discretion of parents and carers at this point .
Distance education packages and resources are being made available for students who are continuing to learn from home .
The re-opening of schools , as well as distance education @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next three weeks , with necessary changes to be made depending on the outcome of sending students back to school .
To ensure safe social distancing is maintained , parents will be required to drop children at the school gate and not enter school grounds .
School canteens will only be providing takeaway services and school swimming pools will be closed .
Large gatherings such as school assemblies , camps , excursions and inter-school activities will not be permitted .
The unemployment rate is now over 10 % in Western Australia .
That @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their jobs since the pandemic began .
There are currently no definitive answers on when most workers will return to working from their offices .
From March 31 , Western Australians have not been allowed to travel outside of their region .
Western Australian intrastate travel is defined as movement through the boundaries of the regions of Western Australia .
• Perth and Peel ( due to their proximity , the Perth and Peel regions form one region ) • Pilbara ( stronger restrictions apply to parts of the Shire of East Pilbara @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in place for those who are travelling for work , seeking medical care , or returning to their place of residence .
There are also exceptions for people who need to travel on compassionate grounds , or who don ’ t have access to essential goods or services in their regions , as well as for those who need to attend educational facilities outside of their region or who are transporting freight .
Currently , you can not enter Western Australia unless an exemption has been granted .
From April 29 , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ operating as before .
From May 4 , public transport will be operating at 70 % of the normal weekday timetable .
Restrictions are still in place for the following businesses , premises and places : What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
Police officers can issue fines of $ 1,000 to individuals and $ 5,000 for businesses that disobey the rules .
To date , drones have also been used to break up public social gatherings and social distancing messages have been played through speakers in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to the rules .
Read : Coronavirus statistics | When will the lockdown end ?

Social distancing in Western Australia began to ease from April 27, when the number of people allowed to attend indoor and outdoor gatherings has increased to 10 people from the previous two-person rule.
Western Australia is now in Phase 2 of the state’s roadmap to recovery.
(Image: WA.gov.au)
Here is the latest update on:


crikey--2020-05-07--Social distancing update: South Australia

Here is the latest on coronavirus social distancing rules in South Australia .
This article will be updated on a regular basis to keep you informed .
South Australia has now passed the two-week mark with no new reported cases of coronavirus .
South Australia has not relaxed any social distancing rules , as other states have in the last few weeks , however , the majority of rules regarding social distancing were not enforceable .
Here is the latest update on : • What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
South Australia has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rules , although technically speaking , there were no restrictions on leaving the home .
The two-person rule was not enforceable and fines would only be issued to persons gathering in groups of 10 or more .
However , it is compulsory to maintain a distance of 1.5 metres from those around you , and people aged over 70 were told to isolate wherever possible .
People aged over 60 with pre-existing health conditions and Indigenous people over 50 have also been urged to stay at home .
Due to the state ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ at zero , there are reports that some restrictions could be lifted as early as May 11 .
Currently , there are only five active cases in South Australia .
Premier Steven Marshall says the goal is to get people back to work as quickly and safely as possible .
As it stands , there are reports that restrictions on funerals and regional travel will be the first to be modified early next week .
While there were no strict or law-binding restrictions on individuals leaving the home , South Australians were urged @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and not to gather in groups of more than 10 people .
South Australian schools returned to face-to-face teaching at the beginning of term two .
Attendance in South Australian schools has now reached 70 % and it is expected “ business will be back to usual ” in the next three weeks .
The government has committed $ 10 million to extra school cleaning protocols .
In South Australia , the workforce is urged to continue working from home , where remote work is possible .
Where remote work is not possible @ @ @ @ @ @ @ offices , factories or construction sites , even if there are more than 10 people present in these workspaces .
Read : When will offices reopen ?
The end of WFH There are no travel restrictions within South Australia , however , non-essential travel is discouraged .
If you are travelling interstate , there are border control checkpoints operating throughout South Australia .
Travellers will be questioned on their travel plans , and police officers are patrolling both main roads and quieter roads .
Non-essential travellers will still be able to enter South @ @ @ @ @ @ @ self-quarantine at that location for 14 days .
South Australian police have the right to carry out periodic spot checks on those who have travelled interstate to ensure they are self-isolating .
What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
Police officers can issue fines of $ 1,000 to those who are gathering in groups of more than 10 people .
Read : Coronavirus statistics | When will the lockdown end ?

Social distancing in South Australia began to ease on May 11 with indoor and outdoor dining being reintroduced for up to 10 patrons. From May 22, the further easing of these restrictions has meant that 20 patrons will be allowed to attend cafes and restaurants, 10 patrons indoors and 10 patrons outdoors.
Here is the latest update on:
Social distancing in South Australia
Education
Work
Travel
What’s open?
What are the fines if you don’t follow the rules?
(This article will be updated as new changes are implemented to keep you informed.)


crikey--2020-05-07--Capitalism v life takes off again as Qantas comes on cheap

Guy Rundle is correspondent-at-large for Crikey .
He 's a former editor of Arena Magazine and contributes to a variety @ @ @ @ @ the United Kingdom .

Keep reading about the plight or reopening flights...
Become a subscriber to get full access to the website, as well as our premium newsletters.


crikey--2020-05-07--Why do the Nats behave so badly? Because they can

Why should Nationals MPs act with discipline and stability when their electorates reward destabilisation and scandal ?
The condemnation of @ @ @ @ @ , and NSW Nationals Deputy Premier John Barilaro , over the Eden-Monaro debacle is universal @ @ @ @ @ of Barilaro 's furious texts to the permanently acting federal Nationals leader Michael McCormack , @ @ @ @ @ across the full spectrum of media outlets condemning the rural party 's self-obsession and juvenile @ @ @ @ @ in the midst of a health and economic crisis .

The condemnation of NSW Liberals minister Andrew Constance, and NSW Nationals Deputy Premier John Barilaro, over the Eden-Monaro debacle is universal. The deliberately destabilising leaking of Barilaro’s furious texts to the permanently acting federal Nationals leader Michael McCormack, in particular, has columnists across the full spectrum of media outlets condemning the rural party’s self-obsession and juvenile mentality, given we’re in the midst of a health and economic crisis.
There hasn’t been this much fury at the Nationals since, well, February, when parliament reconvened while the east coast still smouldered from a bushfire catastrophe and Barnaby Joyce, as if to draw attention to the Nationals’ single-minded focus on disaster recovery for their constituents, bunged on an unsuccessful coup.
All those critical column inches, however, won’t change the mindset of the Nationals, and certainly won’t deter its parliamentary members from continuing to obsess over partyroom games and the leadership, or improve the behaviour or discipline of prominent backbenchers.


crikey--2020-05-07--Neoliberals urge policymakers to take the road to Beijing — putting profits first and national secur

Neoliberals urge policymakers to take the road to Beijing — putting profits first and national security aside For neoliberals and @ @ @ @ @ be a distant second to maximising economic growth .
That 's why they 're backing @ @ @ @ @ The pandemic continues to serve up illuminating examples of the mindset of worried neoliberals , @ @ @ @ @ the gains of the last 30 years crumbling before their eyes .

The pandemic continues to serve up illuminating examples of the mindset of worried neoliberals, who fear they are watching the gains of the last 30 years crumbling before their eyes.
Not merely have governments of all stripes been forced to embrace truly historic deficit spending to prop up their economies and hand-hold entire industries, but borders have been shut the world over, temporarily closing down the immigration that is fundamental to neoliberal economics and raising the possibility that the temporary migrants on whom so many industries rely to keep wage costs down will vanish.
Now Australia’s increasingly testy relationship with China is alarming neoliberals and big business figures who worry that national security might be elevated above corporate profits in the minds of policymakers.