crikey--2020-06-24--Worm: State of the arts

Worm: State of the arts

Good morning , early birds .
Scott Morrison has outlined a $ 250 million arts package , and a new analysis shows up to 11,000 renewable energy jobs could be lost over the next two years if the Morrison government does not renew the 2020 renewable energy target .
It 's the news you need to know , with Chris Woods .
According to the ABC , Scott Morrison has outlined a $ 250 million arts package set to include $ 75 million in festival and event grants , $ 90 million in production loans , a $ 50 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to secure financing , and $ 35 million in direct financing for “ struggling Commonwealth-funded organisations ” , including theatre , dance , music and circus .
The news comes after the ABC announced 250 jobs will go under the Coalition ’ s $ 84 million cut — which , combined with previous attacks , has cost almost a quarter of the organisation ’ s staff since 2013 — with casualties to include the 7.45am bulletin ; ABC Comedy ; Australian Story and Foreign Correspondent staff ; the Ultimo office ; entertainment , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and that eternal enemy of conservative media , ABC Life , which will lose up to half their staff and be rebranded as “ ABC Local ” .
PS : According to both The Sydney Morning Herald and The Australian ( $ ) , chief economics correspondent Emma Alberici has been named as a potential redundancy in a list sent to staff by news director Gaven Morris .
This comes roughly two years after former ABC chairman Justin Milne pressured former managing director Michelle Guthrie to fire Alberici because the Coalition “ hated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , analysis from the University of Technology Sydney has found up to 11,000 renewable energy jobs — equivalent to Australia ’ s entire coal industry — could be lost over the next two years if the Morrison government does not renew the 2020 renewable energy target .
Thankfully , while the news comes after funding cuts to the CSIRO cost Australia 40 world-class research jobs , an “ exclusive ” at The Australian ( $ ) reports that the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association has , graciously , called on the Coalition @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to commit to gas .
Not sure if they needed to waste the ink , to be honest .
PS : In a reminder that maybe a recession isn ’ t the best time for governments to be cutting jobs , The Guardian reports that the International Monetary Fund has warned against cutting COVID-19 fiscal support ahead of a looming , deeper global downturn .
THE BEST DEFENCE IS A GOOD ADF DEPLOYMENT The Age and the ABC report that up to 1000 Australian Defence Force personnel will be deployed in Melbourne for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ areas , while other states have made health officials available for contact tracing .
The news comes as at least 33 contractors were infected working across hotels such as the Stamford Plaza and Swanston Rydges , while Herald Sun reports that the state government will today outline specific information over hotspot suburbs following complaints about local government classifications .
Over in NSW , The Sydney Morning Herald reports that Lane Cove West Public School in Sydney ’ s lower north shore will close today after a second grade student tested positive .
According @ @ @ @ @ @ @ independent investigation into Dyson Heydon also revealed that two other former High Court judges , Justice Michael McHugh and then-Chief Justice Murray Gleeson , were made aware of the allegations of sexual harassment .
Elsewhere , the AFR ( $ ) reports that the High Court has contacted more than 100 former associates , male and female , as part of a fresh inquiry into the extent of sexual harassment in its ranks .
Both stories come after The Guardian revealed that ACT ’ s director of public prosecutions Shane Drumgold has written @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to determine whether or not criminal charges should result ” from the inquiry ’ s findings .
Finally , even as daily cases in America surge to their highest levels since April , CNN reports that the states of New York , Kentucky and North Carolina have all held primary elections .
Although the reliance on postal votes means that some results will not be finalised for days , progressive incumbent Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has been returned in a blow-out and The Intercept reports that — in something of a repeat of AOC ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and former middle school principal Jamaal Bowman has declared victory against Eliot Engel , a 16-term establishment-backed representative who chairs the America ’ s powerful House Committee on Foreign Affairs .
• Following 39 days without an active case , the Tasmanian government yesterday announced plans to bring forward eased restrictions from midday tomorrow , Friday June 26 , to , amongst other measures , allow crowds “ of 500 ( outdoor ) and 250 ( per undivided indoor space ) ” • Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced an additional $ 5 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Western Queensland , under the state ’ s COVID-19 Unite and Recover plan • In the latest of the federal government ’ s state-by-state “ JobMaker ” announcements , South Australia announced $ 145 million in federal-state infrastructure funds • Finally , the ACT government announced an additional $ 1.07 million for Canberra ’ s arts organisations .
THEY REALLY SAID THAT ?
Following what must have been a thorough inquiry , Crikey understands that “ many Australians ” would like the health minister to present even a shred of evidence that national @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s — and Victoria alone ’ s — collective psyche .
READ ALL ABOUT IT Dutton ’ s bid to ban mobile phones in immigration detention centres could be unconstitutional Vaping fans will need a doctor ’ s prescription to obtain e-cigarettes after July 1 Pilots in Pakistan air crash distracted by coronavirus worry , minister says US President Donald Trump rejoices as case against former national security advisor Michael Flynn is dismissed Why Australia needs to join global condemnation of Israel ’ s annexation plans — Ben Saul ( The Sydney Morning @ @ @ @ @ @ @ next week , Israel proposes to forcibly annex up to a third of the Palestinian West Bank , with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling it ‘ another glorious chapter in the history of Zionism ’ .
Israel ’ s incendiary move , paved by US President Donald Trump ’ s ‘ peace ’ plan , has provoked near-universal condemnation.
” Albanese ’ s offer one Morrison must refuse ( $ ) — Paul Kelly ( The Australian ) : “ As a realist , Albanese knew Morrison was never likely to sit down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ policy framework ’ as his letter requested .
That would reopen too many internal Coalition battle scars from the Abbott-Turnbull era .
More important , Morrison sees no pressing need to negotiate a new policy because he rejects Labor ’ s argument that it is essential.
” Latest $ 84 million cuts rip the heart out of the ABC , and our democracy — Alexandra Wake and Michael Ward ( The Conversation ) : “ ABC Life is a particular loss .
It has built an extremely diverse reporting team , reaching new @ @ @ @ @ @ @ supporters and others who were initially sceptical .
The work they produced certainly wasn ’ t the type commercial operators would create.
” • The federal government will begin industrial reform roundtables with union and business leaders .
• A final report into the CCCs oversight of police misconduct investigations will be tabled in parliament , to include allegations of excessive use of force .
• A panel of Aboriginal health professionals — Lesley Nelson , Francine Eades , Prof Sandra Eades and Dan McAullay — will speak on “ The success of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” for the Australia Institute ’ s latest Economics of a Pandemic webinar .

SUPPORT ARTISTS BUT KILL THE ABC
According to the ABC, Scott Morrison has outlined a $250 million arts package set to include $75 million in festival and event grants, $90 million in production loans, a $50 million fund to help film and television producers to secure financing, and $35 million in direct financing for “struggling Commonwealth-funded organisations”, including theatre, dance, music and circus.
The news comes after the ABC announced 250 jobs will go under the Coalition’s $84 million cut — which, combined with previous attacks, has cost almost a quarter of the organisation’s staff since 2013 — with casualties to include the 7.45am bulletin; ABC Comedy; Australian Story and Foreign Correspondent staff; the Ultimo office; entertainment, factual and children’s programs; and that eternal enemy of conservative media, ABC Life, which will lose up to half their staff and be rebranded as “ABC Local”.
PS: According to both The Sydney Morning Herald and The Australian ($), chief economics correspondent Emma Alberici has been named as a potential redundancy in a list sent to staff by news director Gaven Morris. This comes roughly two years after former ABC chairman Justin Milne pressured former managing director Michelle Guthrie to fire Alberici because the Coalition “hated” her.
THAT’S A COAL LOT OF JOBS
According to The Guardian, analysis from the University of Technology Sydney has found up to 11,000 renewable energy jobs — equivalent to Australia’s entire coal industry — could be lost over the next two years if the Morrison government does not renew the 2020 renewable energy target.
Thankfully, while the news comes after funding cuts to the CSIRO cost Australia 40 world-class research jobs, an “exclusive” at The Australian ($) reports that the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association has, graciously, called on the Coalition’s technology investment road map panel to commit to gas. Not sure if they needed to waste the ink, to be honest.
PS: In a reminder that maybe a recession isn’t the best time for governments to be cutting jobs, The Guardian reports that the International Monetary Fund has warned against cutting COVID-19 fiscal support ahead of a looming, deeper global downturn.
THE BEST DEFENCE IS A GOOD ADF DEPLOYMENT
The Age and the ABC report that up to 1000 Australian Defence Force personnel will be deployed in Melbourne for logistical support across hotel quarantine and hotspot areas, while other states have made health officials available for contact tracing.
The news comes as at least 33 contractors were infected working across hotels such as the Stamford Plaza and Swanston Rydges, while Herald Sun reports that the state government will today outline specific information over hotspot suburbs following complaints about local government classifications.
Over in NSW, The Sydney Morning Herald reports that Lane Cove West Public School in Sydney’s lower north shore will close today after a second grade student tested positive.
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JUDGES KNEW OF HEYDON ALLEGATIONS
According to The Sydney Morning Herald, the independent investigation into Dyson Heydon also revealed that two other former High Court judges, Justice Michael McHugh and then-Chief Justice Murray Gleeson, were made aware of the allegations of sexual harassment.
Elsewhere, the AFR ($) reports that the High Court has contacted more than 100 former associates, male and female, as part of a fresh inquiry into the extent of sexual harassment in its ranks.
Both stories come after The Guardian revealed that ACT’s director of public prosecutions Shane Drumgold has written to the AFP recommending an investigation “to determine whether or not criminal charges should result” from the inquiry’s findings.
SHAKING UP THE DEMOCRAT ESTABLISHMENT
Finally, even as daily cases in America surge to their highest levels since April, CNN reports that the states of New York, Kentucky and North Carolina have all held primary elections.
Although the reliance on postal votes means that some results will not be finalised for days, progressive incumbent Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez has been returned in a blow-out and The Intercept reports that — in something of a repeat of AOC’s 2018 surprise victory — 44-year-old progressive and former middle school principal Jamaal Bowman has declared victory against Eliot Engel, a 16-term establishment-backed representative who chairs the America’s powerful House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
STATE VIRUS WATCH: TAS MOVES FORWARD
Following 39 days without an active case, the Tasmanian government yesterday announced plans to bring forward eased restrictions from midday tomorrow, Friday June 26, to, amongst other measures, allow crowds “of 500 (outdoor) and 250 (per undivided indoor space)”
government yesterday announced plans to bring forward eased restrictions from midday tomorrow, Friday June 26, to, amongst other measures, allow crowds “of 500 (outdoor) and 250 (per undivided indoor space)” Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced an additional $5 million in grants for wild dog fencing in Western Queensland, under the state’s COVID-19 Unite and Recover plan
announced an additional $5 million in grants for wild dog fencing in Western Queensland, under the state’s COVID-19 Unite and Recover plan In the latest of the federal government’s state-by-state “JobMaker” announcements, South Australia announced $145 million in federal-state infrastructure funds
announced $145 million in federal-state infrastructure funds Finally, the ACT government announced an additional $1.07 million for Canberra’s arts organisations.
THEY REALLY SAID THAT?
Particularly since the protests, many Victorians and many Australians have said, ‘if it is OK for 10,000 people to congregate and huddle together, surely it would be OK for 10 and my family’. Greg Hunt
Following what must have been a thorough inquiry, Crikey understands that “many Australians” would like the health minister to present even a shred of evidence that national, overwhelmingly-masked protests somehow broke Victoria’s — and Victoria alone’s — collective psyche.
READ ALL ABOUT IT
Dutton’s bid to ban mobile phones in immigration detention centres could be unconstitutional
Unions vow no horse-trading in industrial negotiations
Vaping fans will need a doctor’s prescription to obtain e-cigarettes after July 1
Injunction again stops VicForests logging
Fees for degrees plan faces uncertain Senate ride ($)
Lawyers hopeful Ben Roberts-Smith will give evidence in open court
Medicare-style levy or tax rise could fund aged care reforms
Novak Djokovic’s parents blame Grigor Dimitrov for spreading coronavirus at Adria Tour event
Pilots in Pakistan air crash distracted by coronavirus worry, minister says
US states impose 14-day quarantine for visitors
US President Donald Trump rejoices as case against former national security advisor Michael Flynn is dismissed
THE COMMENTARIAT
Why Australia needs to join global condemnation of Israel’s annexation plans — Ben Saul (The Sydney Morning Herald): “As early as next week, Israel proposes to forcibly annex up to a third of the Palestinian West Bank, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu calling it ‘another glorious chapter in the history of Zionism’. Israel’s incendiary move, paved by US President Donald Trump’s ‘peace’ plan, has provoked near-universal condemnation.”
Albanese’s offer one Morrison must refuse ($) — Paul Kelly (The Australian): “As a realist, Albanese knew Morrison was never likely to sit down and negotiate a new ‘bipartisan energy policy framework’ as his letter requested. That would reopen too many internal Coalition battle scars from the Abbott-Turnbull era. More important, Morrison sees no pressing need to negotiate a new policy because he rejects Labor’s argument that it is essential.”
Latest $84 million cuts rip the heart out of the ABC, and our democracy — Alexandra Wake and Michael Ward (The Conversation): “ABC Life is a particular loss. It has built an extremely diverse reporting team, reaching new audiences, and winning over many ABC supporters and others who were initially sceptical. The work they produced certainly wasn’t the type commercial operators would create.”
HOLD THE FRONT PAGE
WHAT’S ON TODAY
Canberra
The federal government will begin industrial reform roundtables with union and business leaders.
Perth
A final report into the CCCs oversight of police misconduct investigations will be tabled in parliament, to include allegations of excessive use of force.
Australia


crikey--2020-06-24--Virus Watch: Victorian virus spread worsens, recording a death

A Victorian man has died overnight as that state records a full week of daily double-digit growth in coronavirus numbers @ @ @ @ @ takes the national coronavirus death toll to 103 .
And as the state 's COVID-19 @ @ @ @ @ NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has resisted calls to close the borders .
But she has @ @ @ @ @ customers .
Australians ' trust in the US and China has fallen in the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ Morrison addresses claims of pork barrelling as he flags extra cash for regional electorates .
@ @ @ @ @ and businesses to turn away Melburians travelling from the city ’ s six COVID-19 hotspots @ @ @ @ @

A death in Victoria takes the national coronavirus death toll to 103. And as the state’s COVID-19 cases continue to climb, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian has resisted calls to close the borders. But she has advised businesses to shun Melbourne customers.
Australians’ trust in the US and China has fallen in the pandemic, while Prime Minister Scott Morrison addresses claims of pork barrelling as he flags extra cash for regional electorates.
Neighbourly feud
Berejiklian has told tourism operators and businesses to turn away Melburians travelling from the city’s six COVID-19 hotspots as community transmission increases.


crikey--2020-03-31--Worm: How many cops does it take to patrol a park?

Good morning , early birds .
NSW police officers have been raiding parks and threatening people with fines , and the federal government has announced a $ 1.3 billion partnership with the private health sector .
It 's the news you need to know , with Chris Woods .
Day one of new authoritarian measures saw some examples of police overreach , with The Australian ( $ ) reporting that NSW police officers threatened to fine people in parks who were otherwise obeying social distancing laws and ordered them to return home .
While threatening people obeying those rules , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , pointless , there is hope the social distancing measures themselves have begun ‘ flattening the curve ’ , with the ABC reporting that , according to Health Minister Greg Hunt , new national cases have fallen from 25–30 % over a week ago to just 9 % this week .
VICTORIANS MUST NOT BONK : According to Victorian Police Minister Lisa Neville , people in the state can not visit their partners for social reasons .
For a state-by-state guide , see the ABC ’ s report , alternatively , for a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s FAQ .
According to The Conversation , the federal government has announced a $ 1.3 billion partnership with the private health sector to secure 30,000 hospital beds , 105,000 nursing staff , and essential equipment and supplies , including ventilators and personal protective equipment .
State and territory governments will create their own agreements to integrate Australia ’ s 657 private and not-for-profit hospitals into public systems , while the federal government will pay half the costs .
JUST SHORT OF NATIONALISATION : While agreements will act as a lifeline for private @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , they are also conditional on lost revenue from that measure and , presumably , will end when the ban does .
In state news , 10Daily reports Victoria has banned the sale of firearms and ammunition after applications doubled amid the pandemic — OK , terrifying — while Queensland and WA are introducing similar measures .
And in NSW , AAP reports the government has allowed pharmacies to dispense medicines without prescriptions and operate 24/7 , but will seek to prevent bulk purchases to ensure supply — for example , Ventolin brand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NATION ?
According to The Guardian , gun and ammunition sales have soared in the US , and while some kind of ‘ gun control ’ might be useful in this situation , The New York Times reports they have been listed as essential services in some states .
According to our friends over at Croakey , more than two dozen doctors and medical professionals have written an open letter to Minister for Indigenous Australians Ken Wyatt calling for the following measures to protect Indigenous people and communities .
• The cessation of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The urgent release of all minor offenders from custody and those not deemed a threat to others , particularly young people , women , the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions .
• A government guarantee of essential supplies to remote communities amid reports of shortages including food , toilet paper and hand sanitiser , cleaning supplies and ammunition for hunting .
• The provision of clear , accurate and timely information , in local languages , that also recognises the intersection of culture with public health imperatives .
• Specialist training @ @ @ @ @ @ @ health workers in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and remote communities , as well as a guarantee of other essential health services ( dialysis , mental health and telehealth , for example ) and medicines .
The call came as the government released its Management Plan For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Populations , which , for just one example within operational plans , does consider diversionary programs as a means of reducing overcrowding in prisons .
Finally , because pandemics bring out both the worst and best in people , Amazon workers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ over safety concerns , the company then fired a lead organiser , Chris Smalls , and now Newsweek reports that New York ’ s Attorney-General Letitia James has threatened the company with legal action .
THEY REALLY SAID THAT ?
Our ever humble health minister reflects on the slight inconsistencies between federal , state and territory measures .
READ ALL ABOUT IT Josh Frydenberg tells G20 to put global economy into ‘ hibernation ’ during coronavirus crisis Coronavirus : Queensland public servants get pay rise as other workers do it tough New percentage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cash crisis looms Australian airlines ask government for up to $ 5.6bn to survive the coronavirus crisis People over 65 to be given new flu shot for free Civil liberties concerns over Australian police powers to issue fines for coronavirus rule breaches World Bank warns of ‘ third shock ’ after coronavirus and trade war Lockdowns will kill people too ( $ ) — Parnell Palme McGuinness ( Australian Financial Review ) : “ Six months in which children who have been separated from their friend networks will supposedly be ‘ remote schooled @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not have the time , ability , or inclination to support their learning – or who may be struggling with the effects of the lockdown themselves .
In which dysfunctional families are trapped together with their anxieties , violent abusers with their victims , lonely people with their aloneness.
” It ’ s not too early to start thinking about Australia after the crisis — Jim Chalmers ( The Guardian ) : “ We are all in this together ” is more than a matter of saying we are all at risk from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a responsibility to follow the rules – we are , and we do .
We are all in this together is also about what happens next .
It ’ s about the Australia we want to live in when life is normal again.
” Cities In The Time Of Coronavirus — Claire Collie ( Meanjin ) : “ People think me foolish when I tell them I caught public transport to Melbourne to get a flushot at my central city workplace .
The partial , confusing lockdown had just been instated , whereby @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , leaving only for the essentials.
” • University of Sydney academics will hold a webinar discussion about the ethical issues raised by Australia ’ s response to the coronavirus pandemic , clinical care and public health .

POLICE GO HOG WILD
Day one of new authoritarian measures saw some examples of police overreach, with The Australian ($) reporting that NSW police officers threatened to fine people in parks who were otherwise obeying social distancing laws and ordered them to return home.
While threatening people obeying those rules, is, on the face of it, pointless, there is hope the social distancing measures themselves have begun ‘flattening the curve’, with the ABC reporting that, according to Health Minister Greg Hunt, new national cases have fallen from 25–30% over a week ago to just 9% this week.
VICTORIANS MUST NOT BONK: According to Victorian Police Minister Lisa Neville, people in the state cannot visit their partners for social reasons. For a state-by-state guide, see the ABC’s report, alternatively, for a frankly wild read, try Victoria’s FAQ.
PRIVATE HOSPITALS NO MORE?
According to The Conversation, the federal government has announced a $1.3 billion partnership with the private health sector to secure 30,000 hospital beds, 105,000 nursing staff, and essential equipment and supplies, including ventilators and personal protective equipment.
State and territory governments will create their own agreements to integrate Australia’s 657 private and not-for-profit hospitals into public systems, while the federal government will pay half the costs.
JUST SHORT OF NATIONALISATION: While agreements will act as a lifeline for private health following the ban on non-elective surgeries, they are also conditional on lost revenue from that measure and, presumably, will end when the ban does.
OUT OF STOCK
In state news, 10Daily reports Victoria has banned the sale of firearms and ammunition after applications doubled amid the pandemic — OK, terrifying — while Queensland and WA are introducing similar measures.
And in NSW, AAP reports the government has allowed pharmacies to dispense medicines without prescriptions and operate 24/7, but will seek to prevent bulk purchases to ensure supply — for example, Ventolin brand inhalers for asthma.
WHAT ABOUT GUN NATION? According to The Guardian, gun and ammunition sales have soared in the US, and while some kind of ‘gun control’ might be useful in this situation, The New York Times reports they have been listed as essential services in some states.
Get Crikey FREE to your inbox every weekday morning with the Crikey Worm. Email Sign up By subscribing you are agreeing to our terms and conditions
INDIGENOUS COMMUNITY DEMANDS
According to our friends over at Croakey, more than two dozen doctors and medical professionals have written an open letter to Minister for Indigenous Australians Ken Wyatt calling for the following measures to protect Indigenous people and communities.
The cessation of all non-essential fly-in-fly-out workforce contact.
The urgent release of all minor offenders from custody and those not deemed a threat to others, particularly young people, women, the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.
A government guarantee of essential supplies to remote communities amid reports of shortages including food, toilet paper and hand sanitiser, cleaning supplies and ammunition for hunting.
The provision of clear, accurate and timely information, in local languages, that also recognises the intersection of culture with public health imperatives.
Specialist training, appropriate PPE and testing capability for health workers in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and remote communities, as well as a guarantee of other essential health services (dialysis, mental health and telehealth, for example) and medicines.
The call came as the government released its Management Plan For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Populations, which, for just one example within operational plans, does consider diversionary programs as a means of reducing overcrowding in prisons.
ANGRY AMAZON WORKERS WALK OUT
Finally, because pandemics bring out both the worst and best in people, Amazon workers in America have walked off the job over safety concerns, the company then fired a lead organiser, Chris Smalls, and now Newsweek reports that New York’s Attorney-General Letitia James has threatened the company with legal action.
Swings and roundabouts!
THEY REALLY SAID THAT?
In 50 and 100 years’ time, I suspect people will look back on this national cabinet as being one of the most amazing achievements of the federation in Australia’s first 200 years. That’s my honest view. Greg Hunt
Our ever humble health minister reflects on the slight inconsistencies between federal, state and territory measures.
READ ALL ABOUT IT
Josh Frydenberg tells G20 to put global economy into ‘hibernation’ during coronavirus crisis
Government faces fiscal reckoning as taxes collapse and spending soars
Exclusive: Two Australian Border Force officials contracted coronavirus
Coronavirus: Queensland public servants get pay rise as other workers do it tough
New percentage pay deal on cards for cricketers as cash crisis looms
Australian airlines ask government for up to $5.6bn to survive the coronavirus crisis
Coronavirus: Emerald opens first GP-led rural respiratory clinic
People over 65 to be given new flu shot for free
Civil liberties concerns over Australian police powers to issue fines for coronavirus rule breaches
World Bank warns of ‘third shock’ after coronavirus and trade war
THE COMMENTARIAT
Lockdowns will kill people too ($) — Parnell Palme McGuinness (Australian Financial Review): “Six months in which children who have been separated from their friend networks will supposedly be ‘remote schooled’ by parents who may or may not have the time, ability, or inclination to support their learning – or who may be struggling with the effects of the lockdown themselves. In which dysfunctional families are trapped together with their anxieties, violent abusers with their victims, lonely people with their aloneness.”
It’s not too early to start thinking about Australia after the crisis — Jim Chalmers (The Guardian): “We are all in this together” is more than a matter of saying we are all at risk from coronavirus, or that we all have a responsibility to follow the rules – we are, and we do. We are all in this together is also about what happens next. It’s about the Australia we want to live in when life is normal again.”
Cities In The Time Of Coronavirus — Claire Collie (Meanjin): “People think me foolish when I tell them I caught public transport to Melbourne to get a flushot at my central city workplace. The partial, confusing lockdown had just been instated, whereby everyone was encouraged to stay at home, leaving only for the essentials.”
HOLD THE FRONT PAGE
WHAT’S ON TODAY
Sydney


crikey--2020-03-31--'I could be dead by then': slow NDIS support puts thousands of lives at risk

Advocates say the disability sector has been largely ignored in government plans to combat coronavirus .
The ramifications could be @ @ @ @ @ services have been slashed amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Support workers are pleading for testing @ @ @ @ @ , and warning that slow-moving procedures are risking the lives of thousands .
The disability @ @ @ @ @ in the government 's stimulus package , with carer unions and the opposition calling for @ @ @ @ @ given the same stimulus benefits -- including personal protective gear and retention payments -- as @ @ @ @ @ Romola Hollywood , director of policy and advocacy for People with Disabilities Australia , told @ @ @ @ @ feel forgotten in the government 's messaging .

Crucial disability support services have been slashed amid the coronavirus pandemic. Support workers are pleading for testing kits and personal protective equipment, and warning that slow-moving procedures are risking the lives of thousands.
The disability sector has been largely ignored in the government’s stimulus package, with carer unions and the opposition calling for the disability sector to be given the same stimulus benefits — including personal protective gear and retention payments — as the aged care sector.
Romola Hollywood, director of policy and advocacy for People with Disabilities Australia, told Crikey that people with disabilities feel forgotten in the government’s messaging.


crikey--2020-05-04--Worm: Frydenberg reveals the cost of shutdown

Treasury has estimated the national shutdown is costing Australia $ 4 billion a week .
New Treasury figures put the cost of maintaining national shutdown measures at roughly $ 4 billion a week , the ABC reports .
Treasury estimates the shutdown will plunge gross domestic product by 10 % in the June quarter — the equivalent of $ 50 billion wiped from the economy .
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg will provide details on the report at a National Press Club address today .
This will then be further considered by National Cabinet as states discuss loosening restrictions .
New Zealand @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cabinet today amidst talk of a Tasman travel bubble .
GET BACK IN THE GREEN ?
As The New Daily reports , the analysis coincides with a plan from the Clean Energy Council to bring forward the current pipeline of wind and solar projects .
The CEC says this would create more than 50,000 jobs , and inject $ 50 billion worth of investment into the economy .
According to the ABC , a US Department of Homeland Security intelligence report has suggested China “ intentionally concealed the severity ” of the pandemic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ medical supplies .
However , as the broadcaster notes , there is no public evidence that the early censorship of doctors had anything to do with buying up equipment .
The news comes as both Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo argued that private evidence suggests COVID-19 came from a Wuhan laboratory .
According to Nine papers , Australian intelligence officials have knocked back the claim and said a document shared in Five Eyes political circles was mostly based on news reports .
DAILY DEATH COUNT : As Donald Trump urges @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1.1 million and , according to The New York Times , new government modelling suggests the US will see up to 3000 deaths per day by June 1 .
The Sydney Morning Herald reports that iconic Sydney cultural centre Carriageworks has been forced to call on administrators after the sudden cancellation of six months of activities caused an “ irreparable loss of income ” .
Unlike Victoria last month or South Australia and Tasmania back in March , NSW is yet to announce a targeted arts package .
EMPTY VENUES : Y/N ?
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ as the NSW state government calls for community feedback on the second stage of their liquor law reforms and a plan to “ kickstart Sydney ’ s night-time economy post COVID-19 and beyond ” .
• Victoria has tested more than 55,000 samples in the first week of its testing blitz .
• The Northern Territory government revealed it sent body bags ( among other supplies ) to remote Indigenous communities , after early modelling suggested more than 2000 people would die across the territory if the virus had spread unchecked .
• @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , following advice from SA Health .
• The NSW government has now purchased almost $ 1 billion of personal protective equipment .
THEY REALLY SAID THAT ?
In a post on his personal blog , the now-former senior engineer and vice-president at Amazon hits out at his former employer ’ s “ chickenshit ” decision to fire and disparage workers protesting over unsafe conditions .
READ ALL ABOUT IT Aussies-first rhetoric must stop in immigration debate , says Anne Aly ( $ ) Sports rorts funding could escape constitutional challenge if rebooted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pick up Aussies stranded in India Schools are reopening , so here ’ s a guide to the situation in each state and territory New Australian study to investigate COVID-19 links with heart disease We can and should bring Australians home from Syrian refugee camps — Kamalle Dabboussy and Clarke Jones ( The Sydney Morning Herald ) : “ The Australian government ’ s COVID-19 evacuations of Australian nationals from Peru , Argentina , Lebanon , India , the Philippines , and South Africa required overcoming incredible challenges .
Its swift response , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on movement , should be commended.
” Kristina Keneally is wrong to lecture us about immigration ( $ ) — Troy Bramston ( The Australian ) : “ Keneally ’ s approach is not only wrongheaded policy but also dangerous and divisive politics .
To call it a dog-whistle would ascribe a degree of intelligent strategy to it .
Labor ’ s Home Affairs spokeswoman has used the same degenerate language that Trump does by aping his ‘ America First ’ mantra .
It is demeaning and disrespectful to all migrants.
” Missing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Liddle ( Eureka Street ) : “ I do note that the Victorian government has since committed to a $ 16.8 million package with monies both for arts organisations and individual creatives .
Given , however , that Victoria ’ s creative industries make up about 8 % of the economy here , I wonder if this pledge is even going to touch the sides of the problem , particularly since many in the industry feel the federal government has done almost nothing.
” • The Senate inquiry into COVID-19 will hear from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Department of Agriculture , Water and the Environment .
• Treasurer Josh Frydenberg will present “ Paving a path towards reform and recovery ” at the National Press Club .

THE COST OF SHUTDOWN
New Treasury figures put the cost of maintaining national shutdown measures at roughly $4 billion a week, the ABC reports. Treasury estimates the shutdown will plunge gross domestic product by 10% in the June quarter — the equivalent of $50 billion wiped from the economy.
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg will provide details on the report at a National Press Club address today. This will then be further considered by National Cabinet as states discuss loosening restrictions. New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern will also attend National Cabinet today amidst talk of a Tasman travel bubble.
GET BACK IN THE GREEN? As The New Daily reports, the analysis coincides with a plan from the Clean Energy Council to bring forward the current pipeline of wind and solar projects. The CEC says this would create more than 50,000 jobs, and inject $50 billion worth of investment into the economy.
US POINTS THE FINGER
According to the ABC, a US Department of Homeland Security intelligence report has suggested China “intentionally concealed the severity” of the pandemic in an effort to stock up on medical supplies. However, as the broadcaster notes, there is no public evidence that the early censorship of doctors had anything to do with buying up equipment.
The news comes as both Donald Trump and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo argued that private evidence suggests COVID-19 came from a Wuhan laboratory. According to Nine papers, Australian intelligence officials have knocked back the claim and said a document shared in Five Eyes political circles was mostly based on news reports.
DAILY DEATH COUNT: As Donald Trump urges states to re-open, American cases exceed 1.1 million and, according to The New York Times, new government modelling suggests the US will see up to 3000 deaths per day by June 1.
SYDNEY ARTS IN THE SPOTLIGHT
The Sydney Morning Herald reports that iconic Sydney cultural centre Carriageworks has been forced to call on administrators after the sudden cancellation of six months of activities caused an “irreparable loss of income”. Unlike Victoria last month or South Australia and Tasmania back in March, NSW is yet to announce a targeted arts package.
EMPTY VENUES: Y/N? HAVE YOUR SAY! This news comes as the NSW state government calls for community feedback on the second stage of their liquor law reforms and a plan to “kickstart Sydney’s night-time economy post COVID-19 and beyond”.
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STATE WRAP
Victoria has tested more than 55,000 samples in the first week of its testing blitz.
The Northern Territory government revealed it sent body bags (among other supplies) to remote Indigenous communities, after early modelling suggested more than 2000 people would die across the territory if the virus had spread unchecked.
Adelaide city councils have started reopening playgrounds, following advice from SA Health.
The NSW government has now purchased almost $1 billion of personal protective equipment.
THEY REALLY SAID THAT?
I quit in dismay at Amazon firing whistleblowers who were making noise about warehouse employees frightened of COVID-19. Tim Bray
In a post on his personal blog, the now-former senior engineer and vice-president at Amazon hits out at his former employer’s “chickenshit” decision to fire and disparage workers protesting over unsafe conditions.
READ ALL ABOUT IT
Aussies-first rhetoric must stop in immigration debate, says Anne Aly ($)
Sports rorts funding could escape constitutional challenge if rebooted as coronavirus stimulus
Secrecy shrouds war hero Ben Roberts-Smith court case ($)
Three Qantas flights to pick up Aussies stranded in India
Schools are reopening, so here’s a guide to the situation in each state and territory
Eden-Monaro byelection: Liberals line up Andrew Constance as Labor confirms Kristy McBain
Spies consulted on Andrew Forrest deal ($)
New Australian study to investigate COVID-19 links with heart disease
Stephenie Meyer to publish Twilight prequel The Midnight Sun
THE COMMENTARIAT
We can and should bring Australians home from Syrian refugee camps — Kamalle Dabboussy and Clarke Jones (The Sydney Morning Herald): “The Australian government’s COVID-19 evacuations of Australian nationals from Peru, Argentina, Lebanon, India, the Philippines, and South Africa required overcoming incredible challenges. Its swift response, particularly amid border closures and global restrictions on movement, should be commended.”
Kristina Keneally is wrong to lecture us about immigration ($) — Troy Bramston (The Australian): “Keneally’s approach is not only wrongheaded policy but also dangerous and divisive politics. To call it a dog-whistle would ascribe a degree of intelligent strategy to it. Labor’s Home Affairs spokeswoman has used the same degenerate language that Trump does by aping his ‘America First’ mantra. It is demeaning and disrespectful to all migrants.”
Missing Melbourne’s music scene — Celeste Liddle (Eureka Street): “I do note that the Victorian government has since committed to a $16.8 million package with monies both for arts organisations and individual creatives. Given, however, that Victoria’s creative industries make up about 8% of the economy here, I wonder if this pledge is even going to touch the sides of the problem, particularly since many in the industry feel the federal government has done almost nothing.”
WHAT’S ON TODAY
Canberra
The Senate inquiry into COVID-19 will hear from Border Force, Home Affairs and the Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment.
Treasurer Josh Frydenberg will present “Paving a path towards reform and recovery” at the National Press Club.
HOLD THE FRONT PAGE


crikey--2020-06-22--Victoria: Social distancing rules, work, travel, education, fines

Here is the latest on coronavirus social distancing rules in Victoria .
This article will be updated on a regular basis to keep you informed .
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 : • What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
The state of emergency in Victoria is being extended until July 19 , which means that the Victorian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and isolation requirements , as well as other directions from the Chief Health Officer .
This means that residents of Victoria may only have 5 visitors over to their house at one time and may only meet in groups of 10 outside of the home .
Restaurants and bars will be allowed to serve 20 patrons at one time , adhering to social distancing rules .
In May , Victorian government said Victorians may leave the home for five reasons : • To shop for food and other necessary goods and services • @ @ @ @ @ @ @ – for example , this includes shared parenting obligations or providing care and support to an unwell , disabled , elderly or pregnant friend or relative • To attend work or education where you can ’ t do those things from home • To exercise and participate in some recreational activities adhering to the rules • To visit friends , family and loved ones while adhering to the rules Given the extended state of emergency , the above largely still applies .
In a June 21 release , the Victorian government says : @ @ @ @ @ @ @ safe .
If you do need to see people keep your distance .
No handshakes and no hugs .
Maintain good hygiene .
Don ’ t share food or drinks .
Avoid crowds .
And if you ’ re unwell – stay home.
” Schools in Victoria started reopening on May 26 , with most schools offering face to face learning by June 9 .
There will be no clear indication of when workplaces will reopen .
In the latest announcement , Andrews says that people who can work remotely should continue to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ situation will be re-evaluated at the end of July .
It is likely that there will be more answers on when Victorians can return to work by stage two of Morrison ’ s three-stage plan .
As it stands , non-essential businesses are closed , as are 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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ businesses can remain open and how to keep these workplaces safe .
There are no limits on how far you can travel within Victoria .
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 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ There are no restrictions on crossing Victoria ’ s border , however , the border rules of other states will apply to you if you cross them and you need to have a reasonable reason to travel .
• Cafes and restaurants with contact tracing in place • Universities and TAFEs , although many have resorted to online lectures A number of national and state parks are also in the process of re-opening .
What are the fines if you don ’ t follow the rules ?
Victoria Police has been given the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 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 Chief Health Officer ’ s emergency directions 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--2020-05-04--'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 @ @ @ @ @ .
The Fair Work Commission this morning heard an application from the Australian Service Union @ @ @ @ @ United Workers Union asking for an extra $ 4.94 an hour for carers with clients @ @ @ @ @ were waiting for test results .
The unions cited a commissioned report conducted by the @ @ @ @ @ ) which surveyed more than 2300 disability workers .
The report found workers were anxious @ @ @ @ @ additional workload caring for vulnerable clients , and losing shifts during the pandemic .

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--2020-06-21--Worm: We are not amused

Worm: We are not amused

Good morning , early birds .
Following Victoria 's spike in COVID-19 cases , Victorians have been advised against travel to and from six state hotspots until control of community transmission has been confirmed , and last summer 's extreme temperatures and bushfires reportedly pushed Australia 's electricity and gas infrastructure to the brink .
It 's the news you need to know , with Chris Woods .
Following Victoria ’ s fifth consecutive day of double-digit new cases , the ABC reports that the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee has advised against travel to and from six state hotspots @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Moreland , Cardinia and Darebin — until control of community transmission has been confirmed .
The state has today re-entered tighter restrictions — i.e .
five visitors per house , 10 people per public gathering , 20 customers per business — while , according to The Sydney Morning Herald , NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian yesterday sought emergency briefings ahead of the school holidays .
Additionally , The Courier-Mail ( $ ) reports Queensland and South Australia are reviewing potential border “ reopening ” dates of July 10 and 20 respectively .
BAN HUGS @ @ @ @ @ @ @ explains , current outbreak sources include the Stamford Plaza Hotel ( total of 13 associated cases ) , a Keilor Downs family cluster ( 11 over nine households ) and a family in Coburg ( 14 over multiple households ) .
Meanwhile , there is currently no evidence of transmission amongst ( overwhelmingly masked ) crowds at the June 6 Black/Indigenous Lives Matter rally , although two protesters have since tested positive .
According to The Age , The Australian Energy Market Operator ’ s ( AEMO ) latest annual review reports that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bushfires pushed Australia ’ s electricity and gas infrastructure to the brink , with “ environmental limits and temperature tolerances for coal plants … increasingly being approached and exceeded ” .
The energy operator issued 178 directions to deal with supply or system security issues — a figure 10 times higher than the previous three years — while , of eight actual shortfalls , half were in NSW , three in Victoria , and one in South Australia .
WELCOME , COMRADE COAL : After a proud decade of helping gut everything from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , to last year campaigning for the largely fraudulent “ Kyoto credit ” emissions scheme , the Minerals Council of Australia will today endorse the Paris Agreement and , according to The Australian ( $ ) , outline a plan to use electric vehicles and renewable energy across mining operations .
MORE FRESH HORRORS FROM THE US Weeks after the killing of George Floyd , CNN reports that one person has died and 11 have been injured in a Minneapolis shooting , although no arrests have been made and any motive remains unclear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across both America and the world , America has seen another weekend of fresh horrors : • Los Angeles police officers have chased and killed an 18-year-old security guard , Andres Guardado , outside an auto repairs shop ( The Guardian ) .
• A teenager has been shot and killed by an unknown assailant inside a section of Seattle that has been taken over by protesters , known as the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest ( ABC ) .
• After six Americans of colour were found hanging in trees since Floyd ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ originally ruled a suicide despite an ongoing investigation — NYC residents have reported sightings of nooses across the city ( Gothamist ) .
IN HORRORS ACROSS THE POND : According to the BBC , UK police have labelled a park stabbing , that saw three people killed , a terror attack .
At a Tulsa rally allegedly ruined by TikTok users buying free tickets and then not turning up , Donald Trump canvassed making flag burning illegal , spent 14 minutes talking about walking down some stairs , and alleges to have tried @ @ @ @ @ @ @ artificially suppress America ’ s figures — which currently sit at 2.2 million infected and over 120,000 deaths .
ELECTION WATCH : Ahead of more primary elections this week , The Independent reports that the state of Kentucky has cut their number of voting booths by 95 % , fostering concerns over both a Georgia-style outbreak and voter suppression .
• The Queensland government yesterday announced that up to 10,000 spectators will be permitted across football stadiums from Saturday June 27 • As The Age reports , the Victorian government plans to implement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ — a move that will reportedly not affect politicians or frontline workers • Ahead of the Northern Territory ’ s quarantine measures lifting from July 17 , Tourism NT has launched an interstate tourism campaign , The Territory is the answer , to run June through to October • The Western Australian and federal governments announced a joint investment of an additional $ 223 million to deliver shovel-ready infrastructure projects and road safety upgrades • The Tasmanian government will this week introduce the HomeBuilder Grants Bill 2020 , which will provide for the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s $ 20,000 grant along with the federal government ’ s $ 25,000 grant scheme .
THEY REALLY SAID THAT ?
Please , no matter what the former Victorian Opposition Leader , his state colleagues , IPA mates , or anyone tweeting secondary school insults might imply , know that the number of infections attributed directly to the nationwide , heavily-masked Bla ( c ) k Lives Matter protests currently sits at zero .
READ ALL ABOUT IT Think tank calls for youth jobs guarantee as unemployment soars ‘ We ’ re @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rebels hit the streets with an urgent message Retired radio shock-jock Alan Jones to host new show on Sky News Australian beef exports threatened as Chinese buyers look to US ( $ ) Thailand had the world ’ s first coronavirus case outside China .
Here ’ s how it avoided disaster How Indigenous history is taught in NSW schools Why we need humanities graduates in our workforce — Joy Damousi ( The Age ) : “ Education ’ s distinct purpose is to be forward-thinking , but the government ’ s sweeping @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Under the changes , students studying humanities , arts and social science ( HASS ) subjects will face huge fee increases to help fund decreases in costs for students enrolled in other subjects deemed a higher priority for the COVID-19 recovery.
” Labor tribalism defies our spirit of democracy ( $ ) — Jennifer Oriel ( The Australian ) : “ The fatal contradiction at the heart of modern Labor is that its tribal factional system is in permanent conflict with the egalitarian spirit of democracy .
Labor can not stand for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ division .
The party ’ s preference for tribalism is laid bare by the Somyurek scandal engulfing Victorian Labor .
It reveals the naked manipulation of ethnic groups for political power.
” Deflecting from the real issues of Black Lives Matter — Osman Faruqi ( The Saturday Paper ) : “ The morphing of a campaign focused on policing , justice and structural disadvantage into a culture war over statues , movies and TV isn ’ t an accident .
It ’ s a deliberate attempt by conservatives – both in politics and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ debate onto terrain where they are more comfortable fighting.
” • Lord Mayor Sally Capp and Oscar-winning filmmaker Adam Elliot will join director Kitty Green in reopening an iconic movie theatre , Carlton ’ s Cinema Nova , per the state government ’ s new 20-person restrictions .
• A public hearing will be held as part of the inquiry into foreign interference via social media .

VICTORIA RETURNS TO TIGHTER RESTRICTIONS
Following Victoria’s fifth consecutive day of double-digit new cases, the ABC reports that the Australian Health Protection Principal Committee has advised against travel to and from six state hotspots — Hume, Casey, Brimbank, Moreland, Cardinia and Darebin — until control of community transmission has been confirmed.
The state has today re-entered tighter restrictions — i.e. five visitors per house, 10 people per public gathering, 20 customers per business — while, according to The Sydney Morning Herald, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian yesterday sought emergency briefings ahead of the school holidays. Additionally, The Courier-Mail ($) reports Queensland and South Australia are reviewing potential border “reopening” dates of July 10 and 20 respectively.
BAN HUGS, WEAR MASKS? As the ABC explains, current outbreak sources include the Stamford Plaza Hotel (total of 13 associated cases), a Keilor Downs family cluster (11 over nine households) and a family in Coburg (14 over multiple households). Meanwhile, there is currently no evidence of transmission amongst (overwhelmingly masked) crowds at the June 6 Black/Indigenous Lives Matter rally, although two protesters have since tested positive.
GRID STRAINING FOLLOWING APOCALYPTIC SUMMER
According to The Age, The Australian Energy Market Operator’s (AEMO) latest annual review reports that last summer’s extreme temperatures and bushfires pushed Australia’s electricity and gas infrastructure to the brink, with “environmental limits and temperature tolerances for coal plants … increasingly being approached and exceeded”.
The energy operator issued 178 directions to deal with supply or system security issues — a figure 10 times higher than the previous three years — while, of eight actual shortfalls, half were in NSW, three in Victoria, and one in South Australia.
WELCOME, COMRADE COAL: After a proud decade of helping gut everything from the mining tax and emissions trading scheme, to last year campaigning for the largely fraudulent “Kyoto credit” emissions scheme, the Minerals Council of Australia will today endorse the Paris Agreement and, according to The Australian ($), outline a plan to use electric vehicles and renewable energy across mining operations.
MORE FRESH HORRORS FROM THE US
Weeks after the killing of George Floyd, CNN reports that one person has died and 11 have been injured in a Minneapolis shooting, although no arrests have been made and any motive remains unclear.
With Black Lives Matter protests continuing across both America and the world, America has seen another weekend of fresh horrors:
Los Angeles police officers have chased and killed an 18-year-old security guard, Andres Guardado, outside an auto repairs shop (The Guardian).
outside an auto repairs shop (The Guardian). A teenager has been shot and killed by an unknown assailant inside a section of Seattle that has been taken over by protesters, known as the Capitol Hill Occupied Protest (ABC).
After six Americans of colour were found hanging in trees since Floyd’s killing — one of whom was originally ruled a suicide despite an ongoing investigation — NYC residents have reported sightings of nooses across the city (Gothamist).
IN HORRORS ACROSS THE POND: According to the BBC, UK police have labelled a park stabbing, that saw three people killed, a terror attack.
Lifeline: 13 11 14; Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
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TIKTOK, MR TRUMP. TIKTOK.
At a Tulsa rally allegedly ruined by TikTok users buying free tickets and then not turning up, Donald Trump canvassed making flag burning illegal, spent 14 minutes talking about walking down some stairs, and alleges to have tried slowing down testing rates in order to artificially suppress America’s figures — which currently sit at 2.2 million infected and over 120,000 deaths.
ELECTION WATCH: Ahead of more primary elections this week, The Independent reports that the state of Kentucky has cut their number of voting booths by 95%, fostering concerns over both a Georgia-style outbreak and voter suppression.
STATE WRAP: 10,000 QUEENSLANDERS PER STADIUM
The Queensland government yesterday announced that up to 10,000 spectators will be permitted across football stadiums from Saturday June 27
government yesterday announced that up to 10,000 spectators will be permitted across football stadiums from Saturday June 27 As The Age reports, the Victorian government plans to implement a wage freeze for senior public servants — a move that will reportedly not affect politicians or frontline workers
government plans to implement a wage freeze for senior public servants — a move that will reportedly not affect politicians or frontline workers Ahead of the Northern Territory’s quarantine measures lifting from July 17, Tourism NT has launched an interstate tourism campaign, The Territory is the answer, to run June through to October
quarantine measures lifting from July 17, Tourism NT has launched an interstate tourism campaign, The Territory is the answer, to run June through to October The Western Australian and federal governments announced a joint investment of an additional $223 million to deliver shovel-ready infrastructure projects and road safety upgrades
and federal governments announced a joint investment of an additional $223 million to deliver shovel-ready infrastructure projects and road safety upgrades The Tasmanian government will this week introduce the HomeBuilder Grants Bill 2020, which will provide for the implementation and administration of the state government’s $20,000 grant along with the federal government’s $25,000 grant scheme.
THEY REALLY SAID THAT?
Too little early testing. Too many excuses for left-wing protesters. All Chairman Dan’s work. Matthew Guy
Please, no matter what the former Victorian Opposition Leader, his state colleagues, IPA mates, or anyone tweeting secondary school insults might imply, know that the number of infections attributed directly to the nationwide, heavily-masked Bla(c)k Lives Matter protests currently sits at zero.
READ ALL ABOUT IT
Foreign actors targeted Facebook users during Australian 2019 election, thinktank finds
Vehicle emission gains stall even as electric car sales leap ahead
Unis short-changed on job-creating courses ($)
Think tank calls for youth jobs guarantee as unemployment soars
Report backs Queensland and Western Australia keeping borders closed amid coronavirus pandemic
Andrews to meet state union leaders over preselection takeover
Tough cyber security rules loom for business as attacks surge ($)
‘We’re going to lose everything’: XR rebels hit the streets with an urgent message
Retired radio shock-jock Alan Jones to host new show on Sky News
Australian beef exports threatened as Chinese buyers look to US ($)
Authorities transferred hundreds of people between shadowy immigration prisons, ignoring coronavirus threat
Thailand had the world’s first coronavirus case outside China. Here’s how it avoided disaster
How Indigenous history is taught in NSW schools
THE COMMENTARIAT
Why we need humanities graduates in our workforce — Joy Damousi (The Age): “Education’s distinct purpose is to be forward-thinking, but the government’s sweeping changes to university fee structures are short-sighted. Under the changes, students studying humanities, arts and social science (HASS) subjects will face huge fee increases to help fund decreases in costs for students enrolled in other subjects deemed a higher priority for the COVID-19 recovery.”
Labor tribalism defies our spirit of democracy ($) — Jennifer Oriel (The Australian): “The fatal contradiction at the heart of modern Labor is that its tribal factional system is in permanent conflict with the egalitarian spirit of democracy. Labor cannot stand for universal equality when factions depend on ethnic division. The party’s preference for tribalism is laid bare by the Somyurek scandal engulfing Victorian Labor. It reveals the naked manipulation of ethnic groups for political power.”
Deflecting from the real issues of Black Lives Matter — Osman Faruqi (The Saturday Paper): “The morphing of a campaign focused on policing, justice and structural disadvantage into a culture war over statues, movies and TV isn’t an accident. It’s a deliberate attempt by conservatives – both in politics and in the media — to shift this debate onto terrain where they are more comfortable fighting.”
HOLD THE FRONT PAGE
WHAT’S ON TODAY
Melbourne
Lord Mayor Sally Capp and Oscar-winning filmmaker Adam Elliot will join director Kitty Green in reopening an iconic movie theatre, Carlton’s Cinema Nova, per the state government’s new 20-person restrictions.
Canberra


crikey--2020-03-18--Worm: Will the NT close its borders?

Worm: Will the NT close its borders?

Good morning , early birds .
Indigenous health groups want Defence to contain the Northern Territory and Central Australia , and the big banks and the government are negotiating a multi-billion-dollar business rescue package .
It 's the news you need to know , with Chris Woods .
IS HE GUNNER DO IT ?
The ABC reports that Indigenous health groups , specifically the National Community Controlled Health Organisations , have called for Defence to contain the Northern Territory and Central Australia as special control areas .
With cases in Australia rising exponentially , NT News ( $ ) reports @ @ @ @ @ @ @ closing its borders .
Australia has gone from about 19 cases this time in February to over 500 now , The Australian ( $ ) reports , and going off a new Science report on undetected cases , we could be about to see something akin to Europe .
PS : Overnight , NT News ( $ ) reported that territory hospitals are postponing elective surgeries and restricting visitors in an attempt to prevent infection .
The major banks are negotiating a multi-billion-dollar business rescue package with the Morrison government — to potentially @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( to prevent staff lay-offs ) for small and medium businesses — which could bring the government ’ s total spend to more than $ 40 billion , according to The Australian ( $ ) .
The news comes as the government readies an industry package aimed at the airline , tourism and hospitality sectors — and as unions and employers of the latter call for bailouts , The Guardian reports .
WHAT OF THE ARTS ?
According to The Age , federal arts bodies will meet with Arts Minister Paul Fletcher today @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Meanwhile , the National Gallery of Victoria has announced a virtual art workaround .
TechDirt has unpacked two frankly gobsmacking legal threats over pandemic-related medical equipment .
First , how “ patent troll ” Fortress used patents it bought from failed medical testing firm Theranos to sue a company making COVID-19 tests , and even demanding the court block the firm from manufacturing them .
Second , an Italian technician who 3D-printed breathing equipment to save the lives of local coronavirus patients was apparently not only refused the relevant file by the valve @ @ @ @ @ @ @ make it up himself — but apparently threatened with legal action over intellectual property theft .
IN MUCH LESS DEPRESSING SCIENCE NEWS : The Guardian reports China has declared favipiravir , a Japanese antiviral drug developed for new influenza strains , appears to be effective in treating coronavirus patients .
Although retail and agriculture experts told the ABC our food supply is basically fine , Woolworths chief executive Brad Banducci has told The Age supermarkets are now effectively serving “ 50 million Australians , not 24 million ” and , while agreeing with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , the balance is getting trickier .
Also , according to The Daily Telegraph ( $ ) , panic-buying-induced violence means cops will now patrol supermarkets , which is just great .
( SUPER ) MARKET REFORM : Queensland has announced emergency laws allowing supermarkets to stay open 24/7 when necessary , while South Australia will implement similar deregulated trading for 30 days from Saturday , according to The Brisbane Times and The Advertiser ( $ ) respectively .
According to The Australian ( $ ) , the ABC has delayed announcing its @ @ @ @ @ @ @ funding cuts , as the national broadcaster focuses on staff welfare and news reporting amid the coronavirus pandemic .
Relatedly , Australia ’ s Media , Entertainment and Arts Alliance has written to AAP shareholders asking them to keep the newswire going throughout the crisis .
PS : Yesterday , for the first time in its 189-year history , The Sydney Morning Herald published its edition remotely .
THEY REALLY SAID THAT ?
The Joker star and aspiring guru comes back to reality .
READ ALL ABOUT IT ‘ I just want to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stranded overseas amid coronavirus chaos Scott Morrison to take part in ‘ extraordinary ’ G20 summit next week ‘ I ’ m outraged ’ : Secrecy over plan to dig up Sydney Harbour ’ s toxic sludge Coronavirus deaths in NSW rise to five as City of Sydney closes gyms , pools It ’ s a tumbleweed town , with data showing CBD getting emptier each day Coronavirus update : More than 200,000 cases worldwide , Putin protected at all costs Navigate the swirling currents with grace ( $ ) — Scott Morrison @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is changing in Australia , as it is changing all around the world .
Life is going to continue to change as we deal with the global coronavirus .
This is a once-in-100-years event , we haven ’ t seen this sort of thing since the end of World War I.
” How are countries ‘ flattening the curve ’ of coronavirus ?
— Sherryn Groch ( The Age ) : “ You can ’ t see the virus behind the world ’ s latest pandemic with the naked eye but , plotted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one side of a mountain , climbing skyward as case numbers soar past 197,000 people in little more than three months .
Eventually , epidemiologists say , that trajectory will start to fall.
” Australia ’ s economic victims of coronavirus , just like the health victims , need help now — Richard Denniss ( The Guardian ) : “ The median full-time wage in Australia is $ 68,000 a year .
A person who is laid off from their job will land in a Newstart safety net of almost $ 14,500 a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pay for food , rent , mortgage or car payments on $ 280 a week ?
” • The joint select committee will hold a video conference hearing about the implementation of the national redress scheme .
• The TWU and Australian Transport Industrial Organisation will hold a roundtable with workers , transport operators , industry associates , retailers , politicians and economists to come up with solutions to the impact of the coronavirus on the industry .
• Members of the Opera Australia orchestra will perform outside the offices of Opera Australia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ its decision to stand down musicians without pay .
• A total fire ban has been declared for central and northern parts of Victoria for the first time in months , with authorities warning fire danger still remains .

IS HE GUNNER DO IT?
The ABC reports that Indigenous health groups, specifically the National Community Controlled Health Organisations, have called for Defence to contain the Northern Territory and Central Australia as special control areas.
With cases in Australia rising exponentially, NT News ($) reports the Gunner government has not ruled out closing its borders. Australia has gone from about 19 cases this time in February to over 500 now, The Australian ($) reports, and going off a new Science report on undetected cases, we could be about to see something akin to Europe.
PS: Overnight, NT News ($) reported that territory hospitals are postponing elective surgeries and restricting visitors in an attempt to prevent infection.
MORE STIMULUS A-BREWING
The major banks are negotiating a multi-billion-dollar business rescue package with the Morrison government — to potentially include a loan guarantee or cash payments (to prevent staff lay-offs) for small and medium businesses — which could bring the government’s total spend to more than $40 billion, according to The Australian ($).
The news comes as the government readies an industry package aimed at the airline, tourism and hospitality sectors — and as unions and employers of the latter call for bailouts, The Guardian reports.
WHAT OF THE ARTS? According to The Age, federal arts bodies will meet with Arts Minister Paul Fletcher today to discuss their own support package. Meanwhile, the National Gallery of Victoria has announced a virtual art workaround.
PANDEMIC NO MATCH FOR HUMAN GREED
TechDirt has unpacked two frankly gobsmacking legal threats over pandemic-related medical equipment. First, how “patent troll” Fortress used patents it bought from failed medical testing firm Theranos to sue a company making COVID-19 tests, and even demanding the court block the firm from manufacturing them.
Second, an Italian technician who 3D-printed breathing equipment to save the lives of local coronavirus patients was apparently not only refused the relevant file by the valve manufacturer — meaning he effectively had to make it up himself — but apparently threatened with legal action over intellectual property theft.
IN MUCH LESS DEPRESSING SCIENCE NEWS: The Guardian reports China has declared favipiravir, a Japanese antiviral drug developed for new influenza strains, appears to be effective in treating coronavirus patients.
Get Crikey FREE to your inbox every weekday morning with the Crikey Worm. Email Sign up By subscribing you are agreeing to our terms and conditions
AMID PANIC-BUYING
Although retail and agriculture experts told the ABC our food supply is basically fine, Woolworths chief executive Brad Banducci has told> The Age supermarkets are now effectively serving “50 million Australians, not 24 million” and, while agreeing with the government to not undertake war-like rationing, the balance is getting trickier.
Also, according to The Daily Telegraph ($), panic-buying-induced violence means cops will now patrol supermarkets, which is just great.
(SUPER)MARKET REFORM: Queensland has announced emergency laws allowing supermarkets to stay open 24/7 when necessary,> while South Australia> will implement similar deregulated trading for 30 days from Saturday, according to The Brisbane Times and The Advertiser ($) respectively.>
ABC, AAP WORKING ROUND THE BLOODY CLOCK
According to The Australian ($), the ABC has delayed announcing its five-year plan and jobs response to federal funding cuts, as the national broadcaster focuses on staff welfare and news reporting amid the coronavirus pandemic.>
Relatedly, Australia’s> Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance> has written to AAP shareholders asking them to keep the newswire going throughout the crisis.>
PS: Yesterday, for the first time in its 189-year history, >The Sydney Morning Herald> published its edition remotely.>
THEY REALLY SAID THAT?
Wow. 12 days ago I began a silent meditation in the desert. We were totally isolated. No phone, no communication etc. We had no idea what was happening outside the facility. Jared Leto
The Joker star and aspiring cult leader guru comes back to reality.
READ ALL ABOUT IT
Stolen Generations redress scheme announced in Victoria
Catholic system scraps shutdowns after PM’s call ($)
Barrister calls for elderly prisoner release to limit coronavirus risk
‘I just want to go home’: thousands of Australians stranded overseas amid coronavirus chaos
Scott Morrison to take part in ‘extraordinary’ G20 summit next week
‘I’m outraged’: Secrecy over plan to dig up Sydney Harbour’s toxic sludge
Coronavirus deaths in NSW rise to five as City of Sydney closes gyms, pools
It’s a tumbleweed town, with data showing CBD getting emptier each day
Donald Trump wages Twitter fights in midst of virus crisis
Coronavirus update: More than 200,000 cases worldwide, Putin protected at all costs
THE COMMENTARIAT
Navigate the swirling currents with grace ($) — Scott Morrison (The Australian): “Life is changing in Australia, as it is changing all around the world. Life is going to continue to change as we deal with the global coronavirus. This is a once-in-100-years event, we haven’t seen this sort of thing since the end of World War I.”
How are countries ‘flattening the curve’ of coronavirus? — Sherryn Groch (The Age): “You can’t see the virus behind the world’s latest pandemic with the naked eye but, plotted on a graph, it looks like one side of a mountain, climbing skyward as case numbers soar past 197,000 people in little more than three months. Eventually, epidemiologists say, that trajectory will start to fall.”
Australia’s economic victims of coronavirus, just like the health victims, need help now — Richard Denniss (The Guardian): “The median full-time wage in Australia is $68,000 a year. A person who is laid off from their job will land in a Newstart safety net of almost $14,500 a year. How many weeks could you pay for food, rent, mortgage or car payments on $280 a week?”
HOLD THE FRONT PAGE
WHAT’S ON TODAY
Canberra
The joint select committee will hold a video conference hearing about the implementation of the national redress scheme.
Sydney
The TWU and Australian Transport Industrial Organisation will hold a roundtable with workers, transport operators, industry associates, retailers, politicians and economists to come up with solutions to the impact of the coronavirus on the industry.
Members of the Opera Australia orchestra will perform outside the offices of Opera Australia to call on the company to reconsider its decision to stand down musicians without pay.
Victoria


crikey--2020-06-01--Virus Watch: restrictions ease further, while anti-5G protesters are still at it

It 's the day restrictions are easing across the country .
But that did n't stop anti-5G conspiracy theorists gathering @ @ @ @ @ .
Today is the day COVID-19 restrictions start properly easing , with pubs allowing more @ @ @ @ @ inside across the country .
Prime Minister Scott Morrison may announce extra cash this week @ @ @ @ @ it tough , but for those renovating their kitchen , while News Corp keeps peddling @ @ @ @ @ Queensland government has unveiled its plan to ease restrictions in the state , though aims @ @ @ @ @ intact .
From today , locals can travel freely across the state ( well , @ @ @ @ @ zones for Indigenous communities ) .

Today is the day COVID-19 restrictions start properly easing, with pubs allowing more than a handful of people inside across the country.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison may announce extra cash this week, not for those doing it tough, but for those renovating their kitchen, while News Corp keeps peddling Wuhan conspiracy theories.
Restrictions ease
The Queensland government has unveiled its plan to ease restrictions in the state, though aims to keep the Queensland bubble intact. From today, locals can travel freely across the state (well, everywhere but biosecurity or restricted zones for Indigenous communities).


crikey--2020-03-04--Coronavirus Watch: toiet paper battles and miracle recoveries

Panic buyers have toilet-roll companies working overtime , and is n't it time you took a relaxing cruise ?
Here @ @ @ @ @ need to know .
With coronavirus continuing to dominate the news cycle , it 's @ @ @ @ @ the hundreds of stories coming out daily .
Crikey takes a look at the tidbits @ @ @ @ @ -- the good , the bad and the bizarre .

With coronavirus continuing to dominate the news cycle, it’s hard to keep track of the hundreds of stories coming out daily.
Crikey takes a look at the tidbits that you may have missed — the good, the bad and the bizarre.
Some feel-good news, finally
Let’s start with some positives.


crikey--2020-03-04--Is racism spreading faster than the coronavirus?

From sensational and bigoted newspaper headlines to racist taunts in the street , the coronavirus panic has brought out the @ @ @ @ @ of racism have been coming in thick and fast from around the world , fuelled @ @ @ @ @ What 's the nature of the complaints -- and where are they coming from ?
@ @ @ @ @ Rights Council don ’ t generally release information on the specifics of complaints lodged , @ @ @ @ @ a spike in coronavirus-related complaints .

Reports of racism have been coming in thick and fast from around the world, fuelled by the coronavirus panic.
What’s the nature of the complaints — and where are they coming from?
Discrimination lodged with the Human Rights Commission
While representatives from the Human Rights Council don’t generally release information on the specifics of complaints lodged, Crikey understands there has been a spike in coronavirus-related complaints.


crikey--2020-06-15--Worm: The Labors of Albanese

Worm: The Labors of Albanese

Good morning , early birds .
In the wake of the Victorian branch stacking scandal , Labor 's national executive is reportedly considering an audit of the entire state membership , and The Australian reports that multiple background Liberal National Party figures are on the payroll of Clive Palmer .
It 's the news you need to know , with Chris Woods .
According to The Age , Anthony Albanese is pushing for former Victorian premier Steve Bracks and ex-deputy federal leader Jenny Macklin to lead Labor ’ s review into the Victorian branch stacking scandal , while The Guardian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ audit of the entire state membership .
The news comes after Albanese — fresh from delivering a now-overshadowed CEDA speech — was forced to shoot down questions on 7.30 over now-former powerbroker Adem Somyurek ’ s alleged federal influence .
As the ABC reports , Victoria ’ s Assistant Treasurer Robin Scott also resigned last night so as not to be a “ distraction ” , while maintaining that subsequent investigations will clear his name .
BUT IS # PALMSPILL ANY BETTER ?
On the other side of politics , The Australian ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Queensland Opposition Leader Deb Frecklington and LNP headquarters continues to crumble , after Frecklington received unanimous support last night from party MPs .
The paper also explores how multiple background figures are on the payroll of one Clive Palmer — not just president David Hutchinson , but ally and former president Bruce McIver and members of the state executive Malcolm Cole and Larry Anthony .
PS : In just the latest federal expense scandal , The Guardian reports that Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack and his wife billed taxpayers for return flights to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ trip by re-announcing a three-year-old funding pledge to a bunch of pissed off councillors .
GOOD NEWS ?
FROM THE US ?
In a decision that ’ s surprising for a number of reasons , NBC News reports that the conservative-controlled US Supreme Court has ruled in a 6-3 decision to uphold anti-discrimination protections for LGBTIQ workers .
Written by Donald Trump ’ s first Supreme Court appointee , Neil Gorsuch , the court ruled that provisions under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that protect against employee discrimination on the basis of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
DON ’ T WORRY , THERE ’ S ALSO BAD NEWS : Despite pleas from health experts and local newspaper the Tulsa World , Donald Trump plans to speak at a 19,000-strong arena this Saturday in Tulsa , Oklahoma amidst high transmission rates .
However , in a sign the campaign understands the health risk on some level , they have asked attendees to sign a likely-unenforceable waiver .
One week after the country hit level one restrictions , the New Zealand government announced 11 projects , including housing , rail and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be introduced this week — the strangely familiar-sounding COVID-19 Recovery ( Fast-track ) Bill .
As Scott Morrison ’ s announced a plan to streamline federal-state regulations and fast-track 15 infrastructure projects , RNZ reports that New Zealand ’ s bill will do something similar with council/public reviews while maintaining environmental and cultural protections ; for example , and unlike Australia , projects can not involve land returned under a Treaty settlement unless there is agreement from the relevant iwi authority .
PS : In domestic news , The Australian ( $ ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have rejected a move by the Coalition to impose mandatory sentencing — a system that basically overrides discretion for mitigating and aggravating circumstances — for child sex offenders , after the Law Council warned it would do nothing to reduce crime while creating a blanket , five year sentence on even a theoretical “ 18-15 year-old ” relationship .
Late last night , organisers of Victoria ’ s Blak/Black Lives matter event , Warriors of the Aboriginal Resistance , shared footage that appears to show a South Australian police officer repeatedly punching a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ filmed the original videos says the man had been pulled over for not wearing a helmet and having no light on his bike .
RIO TINTO JUST KEEPS DIGGING : After AFR ( $ ) reported on leaked footage that shows Rio Tinto iron ore boss Chris Salisbury telling employees the company was actually not sorry for blowing up the 46,000-year-old Juukan Gorge caves , just the pain that had been created , the company has taken another crack at saying sorry , not sorry , no now we really are sorry ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first slow day for historic , multi-billion-dollar state announcements in recent history , yesterday only saw : • the Victorian government officially opened a $ 250 million investment program , the Victorian Business Growth Fund , that will operate in partnership with First State Super and , rather than provide grants , invest in small-to-medium enterprises on commercial terms and take an equity stake ; additionally , all investment decisions will be made by independent fund manager Roc Partners .
• the Queensland government will now allow up to 100 people to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Because politics is literally just a game for some people , the LNP senator co-opts the words of dying , black victims of police violence in order to criticise Queensland Labor ’ s COVID-19 policies .
READ ALL ABOUT IT NSW economy set to contract by 10 per cent due to coronavirus , Treasurer Dominic Perrottet to reveal Yarra Council to consider consulting with the Aboriginal community on Captain Cook statue US revokes emergency use of malaria drugs to treat coronavirus Vietnamese headed to Australia by boat intercepted in Timor-Leste Scientists fear @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to extinction crisis Florida protester Oluwatoyin Salau , 19 , found dead in Tallahassee after going missing China ’ s new coronavirus outbreak sees Beijing adopt ‘ wartime ’ measures as capital races to contain spread Adem Somyurek branch stacking sacking scandal : Drive-by political hit a whodunit ( $ ) — John Ferguson ( The Australian ) : “ But the deeper question for a party that majors in sexism and foul language is who killed Somyurek and why ?
His defrocking was months in the making , carefully choreographed to derail @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power away from the right-dominated political alliance Somyurek had formed in Victoria.
” View from The Hill : ‘ Can do ’ Scott Morrison needs to take care in deregulating — Michelle Grattan ( The Conversation ) : “ Morrison ’ s drive for deregulation is much more ambitious than just accelerating approval processes for infrastructure and other major projects .
Crucially , it is aimed at a general change in attitudes.
” You don ’ t have to publish both sides when one side is fascism — Eric Alterman ( The Nation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s elite media institutions have no experience with a situation like this and still can not figure out how to handle it .
Historically , media machers have seen themselves as collaborators with government officials to ensure that things run smoothly for whoever is in power.
” • The second day of CEDA ’ s virtual State of the Nation forum will include panel events featuring Attorney-General Christian Porter and ACTU Secretary Sally McManus .
• The News and Media Research Centre at the University of Canberra will release The Digital News @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Minister Marise Payne will outline Australia ’ s post-COVID-19 agenda and speak in conversation with Professor Rory Medcalf , Head of the ANU ’ s National Security College .
• After NSW ’ s 60 day eviction moratorium ended yesterday , the Rent Relief Now Campaign and Housing Defence Coalition will protest at NSW Parliament to demand direct financial relief and an end to all evictions during the pandemic ’ s aftermath .

STACKS ON
According to The Age, Anthony Albanese is pushing for former Victorian premier Steve Bracks and ex-deputy federal leader Jenny Macklin to lead Labor’s review into the Victorian branch stacking scandal, while The Guardian reports the federal party is considering an audit of the entire state membership.
The news comes after Albanese — fresh from delivering a now-overshadowed CEDA speech — was forced to shoot down questions on 7.30 over now-former powerbroker Adem Somyurek’s alleged federal influence. As the ABC reports, Victoria’s Assistant Treasurer Robin Scott also resigned last night so as not to be a “distraction”, while maintaining that subsequent investigations will clear his name.
BUT IS #PALMSPILL ANY BETTER?
On the other side of politics, The Australian ($) reports that the relationship between Queensland Opposition Leader Deb Frecklington and LNP headquarters continues to crumble, after Frecklington received unanimous support last night from party MPs.
The paper also explores how multiple background figures are on the payroll of one Clive Palmer — not just president David Hutchinson, but ally and former president Bruce McIver and members of the state executive Malcolm Cole and Larry Anthony.
PS: In just the latest federal expense scandal, The Guardian reports that Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack and his wife billed taxpayers for return flights to the Melbourne Cup, then justified the trip by re-announcing a three-year-old funding pledge to a bunch of pissed off councillors.
GOOD NEWS? FROM THE US?
In a decision that’s surprising for a number of reasons, NBC News reports that the conservative-controlled US Supreme Court has ruled in a 6-3 decision to uphold anti-discrimination protections for LGBTIQ workers.
Written by Donald Trump’s first Supreme Court appointee, Neil Gorsuch, the court ruled that provisions under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 that protect against employee discrimination on the basis of sex applies to sexual orientation and gender.
DON’T WORRY, THERE’S ALSO BAD NEWS: Despite pleas from health experts and local newspaper the Tulsa World, Donald Trump plans to speak at a 19,000-strong arena this Saturday in Tulsa, Oklahoma amidst high transmission rates. However, in a sign the campaign understands the health risk on some level, they have asked attendees to sign a likely-unenforceable waiver.
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NZ TO PASS ODDLY-FAMILIAR INFRASTRUCTURE BILL
One week after the country hit level one restrictions, the New Zealand government announced 11 projects, including housing, rail and cycleways, will fall under legislation to be introduced this week — the strangely familiar-sounding COVID-19 Recovery (Fast-track) Bill.
As Scott Morrison’s announced a plan to streamline federal-state regulations and fast-track 15 infrastructure projects, RNZ reports that New Zealand’s bill will do something similar with council/public reviews while maintaining environmental and cultural protections; for example, and unlike Australia, projects cannot involve land returned under a Treaty settlement unless there is agreement from the relevant iwi authority.
PS: In domestic news, The Australian ($) reports that Labor and the senate crossbench have rejected a move by the Coalition to impose mandatory sentencing — a system that basically overrides discretion for mitigating and aggravating circumstances — for child sex offenders, after the Law Council warned it would do nothing to reduce crime while creating a blanket, five year sentence on even a theoretical “18-15 year-old” relationship.
HORROR FOOTAGE FROM ADELAIDE
Late last night, organisers of Victoria’s Blak/Black Lives matter event, Warriors of the Aboriginal Resistance, shared footage that appears to show a South Australian police officer repeatedly punching a detained Indigenous man. A woman who filmed the original videos says the man had been pulled over for not wearing a helmet and having no light on his bike.
RIO TINTO JUST KEEPS DIGGING: After AFR ($) reported on leaked footage that shows Rio Tinto iron ore boss Chris Salisbury telling employees the company was actually not sorry for blowing up the 46,000-year-old Juukan Gorge caves, just the pain that had been created, the company has taken another crack at saying sorry, not sorry, no now we really are sorry ($).
STATE VIRUS WATCH: THINGS START TO SLOW DOWN
In what feels like the first slow day for historic, multi-billion-dollar state announcements in recent history, yesterday only saw:
the Victorian government officially opened a $250 million investment program, the Victorian Business Growth Fund, that will operate in partnership with First State Super and, rather than provide grants, invest in small-to-medium enterprises on commercial terms and take an equity stake; additionally, all investment decisions will be made by independent fund manager Roc Partners.
government officially opened a $250 million investment program, the Victorian Business Growth Fund, that will operate in partnership with First State Super and, rather than provide grants, invest in small-to-medium enterprises on commercial terms and take an equity stake; additionally, all investment decisions will be made by independent fund manager Roc Partners. the Queensland government will now allow up to 100 people to attend funerals.
THEY REALLY SAID THAT?
What worries me most is Premier Palaszczuk knows that she is absolutely choking our economy by having these borders shut. She is the knee on the throat of the businesses of Queensland stopping them breathing. Right? Amanda Stoker
Because politics is literally just a game for some people, the LNP senator co-opts the words of dying, black victims of police violence in order to criticise Queensland Labor’s COVID-19 policies.
READ ALL ABOUT IT
Investors face pressure over miner set to destroy Aboriginal artefacts
NSW economy set to contract by 10 per cent due to coronavirus, Treasurer Dominic Perrottet to reveal
CBA board clash over Hayne evidence ($)
NSW police disproportionately target Indigenous people in strip searches
Yarra Council to consider consulting with the Aboriginal community on Captain Cook statue
US revokes emergency use of malaria drugs to treat coronavirus
John Howard, mining chief Elizabeth Gaines called in to win Rugby World Cup ($)
Vietnamese headed to Australia by boat intercepted in Timor-Leste
Facebook won’t share ad revenue ($)
Scientists fear push to deregulate environmental approvals will lead to extinction crisis
Florida protester Oluwatoyin Salau, 19, found dead in Tallahassee after going missing
China’s new coronavirus outbreak sees Beijing adopt ‘wartime’ measures as capital races to contain spread
THE COMMENTARIAT
Adem Somyurek branch stacking sacking scandal: Drive-by political hit a whodunit ($) — John Ferguson (The Australian): “But the deeper question for a party that majors in sexism and foul language is who killed Somyurek and why? His defrocking was months in the making, carefully choreographed to derail his career and suck some of the power away from the right-dominated political alliance Somyurek had formed in Victoria.”
View from The Hill: ‘Can do’ Scott Morrison needs to take care in deregulating — Michelle Grattan (The Conversation): “Morrison’s drive for deregulation is much more ambitious than just accelerating approval processes for infrastructure and other major projects. Crucially, it is aimed at a general change in attitudes.”
You don’t have to publish both sides when one side is fascism — Eric Alterman (The Nation): “Those running the country’s elite media institutions have no experience with a situation like this and still cannot figure out how to handle it. Historically, media machers have seen themselves as collaborators with government officials to ensure that things run smoothly for whoever is in power.”
HOLD THE FRONT PAGE
WHAT’S ON TODAY
Canberra
The second day of CEDA’s virtual State of the Nation forum will include panel events featuring Attorney-General Christian Porter and ACTU Secretary Sally McManus.
The News and Media Research Centre at the University of Canberra will release The Digital News Report: Australia 2020.
Foreign Minister Marise Payne will outline Australia’s post-COVID-19 agenda and speak in conversation with Professor Rory Medcalf, Head of the ANU’s National Security College.
Sydney


crikey--2020-06-15--Health officials' protest advice puts public trust at risk

Warnings from health officials against protesting , while pubs and restaurants are allowed to open , are inconsistent .
Australians @ @ @ @ @ far , to accept that measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are based on @ @ @ @ @ has led to a remarkable degree of compliance with lockdown and isolation and reduced the @ @ @ @ @ There is clear evidence that distancing has been effective in reducing COVID-19 infections .
There @ @ @ @ @ ’ s lockdown was harsher than needed , but by and large the public has @ @ @ @ @ medical advice .
That trust may not last if medical advisers display inconsistency in their @ @ @ @ @ .

Australians have been prepared, so far, to accept that
measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 are based on sound medical advice. This
has led to a remarkable degree of compliance with lockdown and isolation and
reduced the spread of the virus.
There is clear evidence that distancing has been effective
in reducing COVID-19 infections. There is an argument that Australia’s lockdown
was harsher than needed, but by and large the public has been prepared to trust
the medical advice.
That trust may not last if medical advisers display
inconsistency in their advice about risks of infection.