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Independent candidate dismisses eligibility concerns – as it happened Independent candidate dismisses eligibility concerns – as it happened
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25 May 2022What happened Wednesday 25 May 202225 May 2022What happened Wednesday 25 May 2022
25 May 2022China to seek regional Pacific security and policing deal – report25 May 2022China to seek regional Pacific security and policing deal – report
25 May 2022SBS cans youth-oriented TV show The Feed25 May 2022SBS cans youth-oriented TV show The Feed
25 May 2022National Covid summary25 May 2022National Covid summary
25 May 2022Doctors welcome expanded Covid booster program25 May 2022Doctors welcome expanded Covid booster program
25 May 2022Dai Le insists she can sit as MP after eligibility questioned25 May 2022Dai Le insists she can sit as MP after eligibility questioned
25 May 2022Eligibility for fourth dose of Covid vaccine expanded25 May 2022Eligibility for fourth dose of Covid vaccine expanded
25 May 2022Jim Chalmers says work is under way to return Murugappan family to Biloela25 May 2022Jim Chalmers says work is under way to return Murugappan family to Biloela
25 May 2022Penny Wong to travel to Fiji on Thursday25 May 2022Penny Wong to travel to Fiji on Thursday
25 May 2022WA records 12,419 new Covid cases and two deaths25 May 2022WA records 12,419 new Covid cases and two deaths
25 May 2022Six electorates still up in the air as Labor sits on 74 seats won25 May 2022Six electorates still up in the air as Labor sits on 74 seats won
25 May 2022ACT reports 934 new Covid cases25 May 2022ACT reports 934 new Covid cases
25 May 2022Queensland reports 10 Covid deaths and 5,584 new cases25 May 2022Queensland reports 10 Covid deaths and 5,584 new cases
25 May 2022Sharma says Liberals don't have a better option than Dutton25 May 2022Sharma says Liberals don't have a better option than Dutton
25 May 2022Jean-Pierre Thébault applauds new climate stance25 May 2022Jean-Pierre Thébault applauds new climate stance
24 May 2022I am not the opposition, Allegra Spender says24 May 2022I am not the opposition, Allegra Spender says
24 May 2022Albanese gives update on Quad meeting24 May 2022Albanese gives update on Quad meeting
24 May 2022Victoria records 13,023 new Covid cases and 17 deaths24 May 2022Victoria records 13,023 new Covid cases and 17 deaths
24 May 2022NSW reports 8,970 new Covid cases, 11 deaths24 May 2022NSW reports 8,970 new Covid cases, 11 deaths
24 May 2022Peter Dutton will stand unopposed for Liberal party leadership, Karen Andrews says24 May 2022Peter Dutton will stand unopposed for Liberal party leadership, Karen Andrews says
24 May 2022Sussan Ley in box seat to become Liberal deputy24 May 2022Sussan Ley in box seat to become Liberal deputy
24 May 2022Dave Sharma says voters didn't think Coalition was 'serious' about climate change24 May 2022Dave Sharma says voters didn't think Coalition was 'serious' about climate change
24 May 2022Good morning24 May 2022Good morning
What happened Wednesday 25 May 2022What happened Wednesday 25 May 2022
With that we will end our live news coverage for the day. Here’s a summary of the main news developments.With that we will end our live news coverage for the day. Here’s a summary of the main news developments.
The interim home affairs minister, Jim Chalmers, has sent a clear signal the Murugappan family will shortly return home to Biloela.The interim home affairs minister, Jim Chalmers, has sent a clear signal the Murugappan family will shortly return home to Biloela.
People with medical conditions or disabilities that increase the risk of severe Covid-19 will be eligible for a fourth vaccine dose after updated advice by Australian health authorities.People with medical conditions or disabilities that increase the risk of severe Covid-19 will be eligible for a fourth vaccine dose after updated advice by Australian health authorities.
Australia’s new foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, will travel to Fiji on Thursday in an early sign of her determination to deepen the relationship with Pacific countries. Meanwhile, there is a report that China will seek a region-wide deal with almost a dozen Pacific islands covering policing, security and data communications cooperation when its foreign minister, Wang Yi, hosts a meeting in Fiji next week.Australia’s new foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, will travel to Fiji on Thursday in an early sign of her determination to deepen the relationship with Pacific countries. Meanwhile, there is a report that China will seek a region-wide deal with almost a dozen Pacific islands covering policing, security and data communications cooperation when its foreign minister, Wang Yi, hosts a meeting in Fiji next week.
A teenage gunman has killed at least 19 children and two adults after storming into an elementary school in Texas, officials have said, the latest bout of gun-fueled mass killings in the United States and the nation’s worst school shooting since Sandy Hook a decade ago.A teenage gunman has killed at least 19 children and two adults after storming into an elementary school in Texas, officials have said, the latest bout of gun-fueled mass killings in the United States and the nation’s worst school shooting since Sandy Hook a decade ago.
An employee at the now-collapsed Aboriginal Community Benefits Fund (ACBF) allegedly described its Aboriginal clients using a derogatory and racist term, and directed another sales representative going door-to-door to sign people up even if they were drinking alcohol, according to internal emails seen by Guardian Australia.An employee at the now-collapsed Aboriginal Community Benefits Fund (ACBF) allegedly described its Aboriginal clients using a derogatory and racist term, and directed another sales representative going door-to-door to sign people up even if they were drinking alcohol, according to internal emails seen by Guardian Australia.
Relentless rainfall has sparked a leech invasion in New South Wales, with no reprieve in sight for already damp dwellings.Relentless rainfall has sparked a leech invasion in New South Wales, with no reprieve in sight for already damp dwellings.
A woman found guilty of murder has wiped away tears as she continued to deny strangling and stabbing her mother to death two decades ago.A woman found guilty of murder has wiped away tears as she continued to deny strangling and stabbing her mother to death two decades ago.
Thanks for following along, we’ll be back to do it all again tomorrow.Thanks for following along, we’ll be back to do it all again tomorrow.
Following on from that report about China seeking a region-wide deal with Pacific islands as China’s foreign minister travels to eight countries in the region: Australia’s new foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, will travel to Fiji tomorrow, amid a growing competition for influence in the Pacific.Following on from that report about China seeking a region-wide deal with Pacific islands as China’s foreign minister travels to eight countries in the region: Australia’s new foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, will travel to Fiji tomorrow, amid a growing competition for influence in the Pacific.
Guardian Australia’s chief political correspondent, Sarah Martin, who is on her way back from Tokyo where new prime minister Anthony Albanese and Wong travelled for a Quad leaders summit, reports that Wong has broadly addressed the topic of Australia’s role in the pacific.Guardian Australia’s chief political correspondent, Sarah Martin, who is on her way back from Tokyo where new prime minister Anthony Albanese and Wong travelled for a Quad leaders summit, reports that Wong has broadly addressed the topic of Australia’s role in the pacific.
“Look, after a lost decade we’ve got a lot of work to do to regain Australia’s position as the partner of choice in the Pacific, in a region that’s less secure and more contested, but that work starts now,” Wong told reporters.“Look, after a lost decade we’ve got a lot of work to do to regain Australia’s position as the partner of choice in the Pacific, in a region that’s less secure and more contested, but that work starts now,” Wong told reporters.
Wong added:Wong added:
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}China has made its intentions clear.So too are the intentions of the new Australian government. We want to help build a stronger Pacific family. We want to bring new energy and more resources to the Pacific. And we want to make a uniquely Australian contribution including through our Pacific labour programs and new permanent migration opportunities. I will be a frequent visitor to the Pacific, starting this week with a visit to Fiji as we lead up to the Pacific Islands Forum.” .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}China has made its intentions clear.So too are the intentions of the new Australian government. We want to help build a stronger Pacific family. We want to bring new energy and more resources to the Pacific. And we want to make a uniquely Australian contribution including through our Pacific labour programs and new permanent migration opportunities. I will be a frequent visitor to the Pacific, starting this week with a visit to Fiji as we lead up to the Pacific Islands Forum.”
Daniel Hurst, Guardian Australia’s foreign affairs and defence correspondent, filed this report about Wong’s Fiji trip:Daniel Hurst, Guardian Australia’s foreign affairs and defence correspondent, filed this report about Wong’s Fiji trip:
China to seek regional Pacific security and policing deal – reportChina to seek regional Pacific security and policing deal – report
Reuters is reporting that China will seek a region-wide deal with almost a dozen Pacific islands covering policing, security and data communications cooperation when its foreign minister, Wang Yi, hosts a meeting in Fiji next week.Reuters is reporting that China will seek a region-wide deal with almost a dozen Pacific islands covering policing, security and data communications cooperation when its foreign minister, Wang Yi, hosts a meeting in Fiji next week.
A draft communique and five-year action plan sent by Beijing to 10 Pacific islands ahead of a foreign ministers meeting on 30 May has prompted pushback from at least one of the invited nations, which says it showed China’s intent to control the region and “threatens regional stability”.A draft communique and five-year action plan sent by Beijing to 10 Pacific islands ahead of a foreign ministers meeting on 30 May has prompted pushback from at least one of the invited nations, which says it showed China’s intent to control the region and “threatens regional stability”.
In a letter to 21 Pacific leaders seen by Reuters, the Federated States of Micronesia president, David Panuelo, said his nation would argue the “pre-determined joint communique” should be rejected, because he fears it could spark a new “cold war” between China and the West.In a letter to 21 Pacific leaders seen by Reuters, the Federated States of Micronesia president, David Panuelo, said his nation would argue the “pre-determined joint communique” should be rejected, because he fears it could spark a new “cold war” between China and the West.
Wang will visit eight Pacific island nations that China holds diplomatic ties with between 26 May and 4 June.Wang will visit eight Pacific island nations that China holds diplomatic ties with between 26 May and 4 June.
He arrives on Thursday in the Solomon Islands, which recently signed a security pact with China despite objections from Australia, the United States, Japan and New Zealand, which fear it could upset regional security arrangements and give China a military foothold in the Pacific.He arrives on Thursday in the Solomon Islands, which recently signed a security pact with China despite objections from Australia, the United States, Japan and New Zealand, which fear it could upset regional security arrangements and give China a military foothold in the Pacific.
You can read the Reuters report here:You can read the Reuters report here:
Wet weather brings leech invasion to NSW suburbsWet weather brings leech invasion to NSW suburbs
Relentless rainfall has sparked a leech invasion in New South Wales, with no reprieve in sight for already damp dwellings.Relentless rainfall has sparked a leech invasion in New South Wales, with no reprieve in sight for already damp dwellings.
The blood-sucking creatures have been attracted into suburban areas, where higher than normal rainfall and humidity are providing suitable conditions to feed.The blood-sucking creatures have been attracted into suburban areas, where higher than normal rainfall and humidity are providing suitable conditions to feed.
Linda Campbell has been batting off leeches in her Winmalee home in the Blue Mountains for months.Linda Campbell has been batting off leeches in her Winmalee home in the Blue Mountains for months.
She said:She said:
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}I’ve lived in this house for seven years [and] I have never found leeches inside before now. I don’t have a dog. My two cats aren’t allowed outside, so they haven’t hitched a ride on a pet. .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}I’ve lived in this house for seven years [and] I have never found leeches inside before now. I don’t have a dog. My two cats aren’t allowed outside, so they haven’t hitched a ride on a pet.
Read more:Read more:
Chalmers flags ‘substantial progress’ on returning Murugappan family to BiloelaChalmers flags ‘substantial progress’ on returning Murugappan family to Biloela
The interim home affairs minister, Jim Chalmers, has sent a clear signal the Murugappan family will shortly return home to Biloela.The interim home affairs minister, Jim Chalmers, has sent a clear signal the Murugappan family will shortly return home to Biloela.
Chalmers told reporters on Wednesday he had made “substantial progress on this in the last day or two” and hoped to discuss arrangements for the return once Anthony Albanese returned from Tokyo.Chalmers told reporters on Wednesday he had made “substantial progress on this in the last day or two” and hoped to discuss arrangements for the return once Anthony Albanese returned from Tokyo.
Chalmers said:Chalmers said:
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}I have received advice that I sought almost immediately, having been appointed the interim minister for home affairs. I hope to be able to announce progress on this case very, very soon. .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}I have received advice that I sought almost immediately, having been appointed the interim minister for home affairs. I hope to be able to announce progress on this case very, very soon.
The Morrison government refused to allow the family permanent residency because Tamil asylum seekers Nades and Priya Murugappan arrived in Australia by boat.The Morrison government refused to allow the family permanent residency because Tamil asylum seekers Nades and Priya Murugappan arrived in Australia by boat.
Read more:Read more:
Tomorrow I am traveling to Fiji to strengthen our countries' partnership.Australia will listen and work together to face our shared challenges and achieve our shared aspirations.Nothing is more important in that work than action on climate change.https://t.co/0vOMMovdeHTomorrow I am traveling to Fiji to strengthen our countries' partnership.Australia will listen and work together to face our shared challenges and achieve our shared aspirations.Nothing is more important in that work than action on climate change.https://t.co/0vOMMovdeH
Woman guilty of murdering mother in 2001Woman guilty of murdering mother in 2001
A woman found guilty of murder has wiped away tears as she continued to deny strangling and stabbing her mother to death two decades ago.A woman found guilty of murder has wiped away tears as she continued to deny strangling and stabbing her mother to death two decades ago.
“I don’t understand, I didn’t do it,” Isabela Carolina Camelo-Gomez said to her legal counsel in the New South Wales supreme court on Wednesday.“I don’t understand, I didn’t do it,” Isabela Carolina Camelo-Gomez said to her legal counsel in the New South Wales supreme court on Wednesday.
As the 47-year-old was taken into custody, she continued to express disbelief at the jury’s verdict, saying:As the 47-year-old was taken into custody, she continued to express disbelief at the jury’s verdict, saying:
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}The justice system gets everything wrong. .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}The justice system gets everything wrong.
Camelo-Gomez, now 47, had pleaded not guilty to murdering Irene Jones in her Sydney home in 2001.Camelo-Gomez, now 47, had pleaded not guilty to murdering Irene Jones in her Sydney home in 2001.
But after a week of deliberation, the jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict.But after a week of deliberation, the jury returned a unanimous guilty verdict.
Read more:Read more:
SBS cans youth-oriented TV show The FeedSBS cans youth-oriented TV show The Feed
SBS has axed its local television program aimed at young audiences, The Feed, after almost 10 years.SBS has axed its local television program aimed at young audiences, The Feed, after almost 10 years.
The program, hosted by Marc Fennell, will end next month, although the brand will continue to exist through digital-only stories, explainers and comedy for digital platforms.The program, hosted by Marc Fennell, will end next month, although the brand will continue to exist through digital-only stories, explainers and comedy for digital platforms.
A little thread about @TheFeedSBS pic.twitter.com/j211zrgiWlA little thread about @TheFeedSBS pic.twitter.com/j211zrgiWl
SBS director of news and current affairs Mandi Wicks said:SBS director of news and current affairs Mandi Wicks said:
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}The Feed has also been an amazing place to discover and develop young and diverse Australian journalists, producers and editors, and we believe the new direction will play to the strengths of the current talented and creative team and continue to serve as a talent incubator for SBS. .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}The Feed has also been an amazing place to discover and develop young and diverse Australian journalists, producers and editors, and we believe the new direction will play to the strengths of the current talented and creative team and continue to serve as a talent incubator for SBS.
Fennell would front two new documentaries as part of a newly created specialist documentary unit, SBS said.The final episode of The Feed on TV is to air on SBS on 28 June.Fennell would front two new documentaries as part of a newly created specialist documentary unit, SBS said.The final episode of The Feed on TV is to air on SBS on 28 June.
Here’s everything you need to know about the expansion of eligibility for a fourth Covid-19 vaccine dose, from Paul Karp:Here’s everything you need to know about the expansion of eligibility for a fourth Covid-19 vaccine dose, from Paul Karp:
Penny Wong set to travel to Fiji, coinciding with Chinese minister’s Pacific tourPenny Wong set to travel to Fiji, coinciding with Chinese minister’s Pacific tour
Australia’s new foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, will travel to Fiji on Thursday in an early sign of her determination to deepen the relationship with Pacific countries.Australia’s new foreign affairs minister, Penny Wong, will travel to Fiji on Thursday in an early sign of her determination to deepen the relationship with Pacific countries.
Wong’s travel coincides with an eight-country trip to the region by China’s foreign minister amid a growing competition for influence in the Pacific.Wong’s travel coincides with an eight-country trip to the region by China’s foreign minister amid a growing competition for influence in the Pacific.
The Albanese government has signalled that a more ambitious climate policy will be a key plank in its strategy to ensure Australia is seen as “a generous, respectful and reliable” partner to Pacific countries.The Albanese government has signalled that a more ambitious climate policy will be a key plank in its strategy to ensure Australia is seen as “a generous, respectful and reliable” partner to Pacific countries.
Wong, who joined Anthony Albanese at the Quad summit in Tokyo on Tuesday, was flying back to Australia on Wednesday but is scheduled to travel to Fiji on Thursday.Wong, who joined Anthony Albanese at the Quad summit in Tokyo on Tuesday, was flying back to Australia on Wednesday but is scheduled to travel to Fiji on Thursday.
Wong said the early visit, during her first week in office, demonstrated “the importance we place on our relationship with Fiji and on our Pacific engagement”.Wong said the early visit, during her first week in office, demonstrated “the importance we place on our relationship with Fiji and on our Pacific engagement”.
She said in a statement:She said in a statement:
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}I will travel to Fiji to strengthen our vuvale [family] partnership and to discuss how we can best secure our region and help build a stronger Pacific family. .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}I will travel to Fiji to strengthen our vuvale [family] partnership and to discuss how we can best secure our region and help build a stronger Pacific family.
Read more:Read more:
An employee at the now-collapsed Aboriginal Community Benefits Fund allegedly described its Aboriginal clients as “black cunts” and directed another sales representative going door-to-door to sign people up even if they were drinking alcohol, according to internal emails seen by Guardian Australia.An employee at the now-collapsed Aboriginal Community Benefits Fund allegedly described its Aboriginal clients as “black cunts” and directed another sales representative going door-to-door to sign people up even if they were drinking alcohol, according to internal emails seen by Guardian Australia.
You can read the latest on the Youpla funeral fund from Lorena Allam and Ben Butler here:You can read the latest on the Youpla funeral fund from Lorena Allam and Ben Butler here:
National Covid summaryNational Covid summary
Here are the latest coronavirus numbers from around Australia today, as the country records at least 41 deaths from Covid-19:Here are the latest coronavirus numbers from around Australia today, as the country records at least 41 deaths from Covid-19:
ACTACT
Deaths: 0Deaths: 0
Cases: 934Cases: 934
In hospital: 88 (with 1 people in ICU)In hospital: 88 (with 1 people in ICU)
NSWNSW
Deaths: 11Deaths: 11
Cases: 8,970Cases: 8,970
In hospital: 1,209 (with 35 people in ICU)In hospital: 1,209 (with 35 people in ICU)
Northern TerritoryNorthern Territory
Deaths: 0Deaths: 0
Cases: 289Cases: 289
In hospital: 11 (with 1 person in ICU)In hospital: 11 (with 1 person in ICU)
QueenslandQueensland
Deaths: 10Deaths: 10
Cases: 5,584Cases: 5,584
In hospital: 426 (with 15 people in ICU)In hospital: 426 (with 15 people in ICU)
South AustraliaSouth Australia
Deaths: 1Deaths: 1
Cases: 3,975Cases: 3,975
In hospital: 236 (with 10 people in ICU)In hospital: 236 (with 10 people in ICU)
TasmaniaTasmania
Deaths: 0Deaths: 0
Cases: 899Cases: 899
In hospital: 51 (with 2 people in ICU)In hospital: 51 (with 2 people in ICU)
VictoriaVictoria
Deaths: 17Deaths: 17
Cases: 13,023Cases: 13,023
In hospital: 567 (with 37 people in ICU)In hospital: 567 (with 37 people in ICU)
Western AustraliaWestern Australia
Deaths: 2Deaths: 2
Cases: 12,419Cases: 12,419
In hospital: 301 (with 7 people in ICU)In hospital: 301 (with 7 people in ICU)
Doctors welcome expanded Covid booster programDoctors welcome expanded Covid booster program
The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has welcomed the expansion of the Covid-19 fourth dose program, after the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation earlier recommended that all people aged 16 to 64 with certain risks factors be eligible to receive a second booster dose.The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has welcomed the expansion of the Covid-19 fourth dose program, after the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation earlier recommended that all people aged 16 to 64 with certain risks factors be eligible to receive a second booster dose.
People who are now recommended to receive a second booster dose include those with immuno-compromising conditions, cancers, specific chronic inflammatory conditions, chronic liver disease, chronic lung disease and severe chronic kidney disease.People who are now recommended to receive a second booster dose include those with immuno-compromising conditions, cancers, specific chronic inflammatory conditions, chronic liver disease, chronic lung disease and severe chronic kidney disease.
Karen Price, the RACGP president, said that “the pandemic is far from over and this winter booster expansion is a positive step forward” given current high levels of community transmission.Karen Price, the RACGP president, said that “the pandemic is far from over and this winter booster expansion is a positive step forward” given current high levels of community transmission.
She said:She said:
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}Now, people with certain risk factors that would make them more susceptible to severe effects from Covid-19 have the opportunity to receive a second booster dose, which will further enhance their immune response to the virus. .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}Now, people with certain risk factors that would make them more susceptible to severe effects from Covid-19 have the opportunity to receive a second booster dose, which will further enhance their immune response to the virus.
Price encouraged “anyone who falls in this cohort to step forward and receive their second booster jab with their usual GP”.Price encouraged “anyone who falls in this cohort to step forward and receive their second booster jab with their usual GP”.
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}Keep in mind that our healthcare system is under enormous pressure at the moment. Covid-19 and influenza cases are climbing, and many hospitals are over-stretched, so by expanding the booster dose program we can help keep more people out of hospitals beds which is a win-win for all concerned. .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}Keep in mind that our healthcare system is under enormous pressure at the moment. Covid-19 and influenza cases are climbing, and many hospitals are over-stretched, so by expanding the booster dose program we can help keep more people out of hospitals beds which is a win-win for all concerned.
Price added that some GPs are already under strain as they are “still very much struggling to absorb the cost of taking part in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout”.Price added that some GPs are already under strain as they are “still very much struggling to absorb the cost of taking part in the Covid-19 vaccine rollout”.
If you’re wanting more information about the mass shooting at a Texas school, the Guardian’s live blog on the tragedy has all the latest.If you’re wanting more information about the mass shooting at a Texas school, the Guardian’s live blog on the tragedy has all the latest.
Win for Mike Cannon-Brookes in swaying AGL investorsWin for Mike Cannon-Brookes in swaying AGL investors
There’s a bit going on in energy markets. AGL stock raider billionaire Mike Cannon-Brookes has had a win in his effort to woo more shareholders for his bid to block the plan to split the country’s biggest electricity provider into two.There’s a bit going on in energy markets. AGL stock raider billionaire Mike Cannon-Brookes has had a win in his effort to woo more shareholders for his bid to block the plan to split the country’s biggest electricity provider into two.
Hesta Super said in a statement today that it would swing its $21m holding – or about 0.36% of AGL – behind MCB’s bid. Cannon-Brookes is AGL’s biggest shareholder with about 11.3% and needs support from 25% of the holdings to foil the demerger.Hesta Super said in a statement today that it would swing its $21m holding – or about 0.36% of AGL – behind MCB’s bid. Cannon-Brookes is AGL’s biggest shareholder with about 11.3% and needs support from 25% of the holdings to foil the demerger.
Debby Blakey, chief executive of Hesta, said:Debby Blakey, chief executive of Hesta, said:
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}The events at AGL represent a watershed in active ownership in this country. Shareholders are pushing for greater action on climate change and a more rapid transition that aims to enhance the company’s ability to create long-term, sustainable value. .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}The events at AGL represent a watershed in active ownership in this country. Shareholders are pushing for greater action on climate change and a more rapid transition that aims to enhance the company’s ability to create long-term, sustainable value.
We cannot simply divest away from the risk of Australia being slow to transition to a low-carbon future. Responsible investors have a responsibility to their members to go to where the biggest emissions are and as owners try and first change the behaviour of these companies.We cannot simply divest away from the risk of Australia being slow to transition to a low-carbon future. Responsible investors have a responsibility to their members to go to where the biggest emissions are and as owners try and first change the behaviour of these companies.
The vote will be on 15 June. Should MCB succeed, he would seek to accelerate AGL’s exit from coal-fired power. Its Liddell plant in the Hunter is already down to three units and will close them by next April (handily after the NSW state election, next March).The vote will be on 15 June. Should MCB succeed, he would seek to accelerate AGL’s exit from coal-fired power. Its Liddell plant in the Hunter is already down to three units and will close them by next April (handily after the NSW state election, next March).
The remaining plants are Bayswater, near Liddell, and Loy Yang A in Victoria’s Latrobe Valley.The remaining plants are Bayswater, near Liddell, and Loy Yang A in Victoria’s Latrobe Valley.
A lot is happening in the energy sector, as it happens. As we reported here, the Australian Electricity Regulator will tomorrow release the default market offer for 2022-23 – after the Morrison government delayed it from 1 May, when it is usually published.A lot is happening in the energy sector, as it happens. As we reported here, the Australian Electricity Regulator will tomorrow release the default market offer for 2022-23 – after the Morrison government delayed it from 1 May, when it is usually published.
With wholesale prices soaring, the offer is likely to be lifted, perhaps by 10% or more. Those same market forces have claimed one corporate victim, with more to come.With wholesale prices soaring, the offer is likely to be lifted, perhaps by 10% or more. Those same market forces have claimed one corporate victim, with more to come.
Yesterday, the Essential Services Commission in Victoria initiated a “retailer of last resort” for customers of failed gas retailer Weston Energy Pty Ltd to other retailers in the state to ensure continued supply of essential gas services.Yesterday, the Essential Services Commission in Victoria initiated a “retailer of last resort” for customers of failed gas retailer Weston Energy Pty Ltd to other retailers in the state to ensure continued supply of essential gas services.
The commission said:The commission said:
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}Weston Energy was suspended from the Declared Wholesale Gas Market by the Australian Energy Market Operator for failing to comply with AEMO requirements under the National Gas Rules. .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}Weston Energy was suspended from the Declared Wholesale Gas Market by the Australian Energy Market Operator for failing to comply with AEMO requirements under the National Gas Rules.
The market suspension affects 184 large and medium-sized customers with 1140 sites in Victoria. Customers will be contacted directly with information about the new arrangements, including options for ongoing supply, and whom to contact for more information or in the event of any disputes, the commission says.The market suspension affects 184 large and medium-sized customers with 1140 sites in Victoria. Customers will be contacted directly with information about the new arrangements, including options for ongoing supply, and whom to contact for more information or in the event of any disputes, the commission says.
In short, Weston was paying too much for the higher energy prices than it could pass on (presumably it hadn’t hedged enough). This provision has not been used since 2016, one insider says. With the energy squeeze likely to get worse, it’s a fair bet that it won’t be the last Retailer of Last Resort order.In short, Weston was paying too much for the higher energy prices than it could pass on (presumably it hadn’t hedged enough). This provision has not been used since 2016, one insider says. With the energy squeeze likely to get worse, it’s a fair bet that it won’t be the last Retailer of Last Resort order.
Dai Le insists she can sit as MP after eligibility questionedDai Le insists she can sit as MP after eligibility questioned
Dai Le, the independent leading the count in the New South Wales seat of Fowler, has insisted she is eligible to sit in parliament, after a news report and social media users questioned her citizenship.Dai Le, the independent leading the count in the New South Wales seat of Fowler, has insisted she is eligible to sit in parliament, after a news report and social media users questioned her citizenship.
Le disclosed to the Australian Electoral Commission that her mother was born in Vietnam, but indicated she didn’t know the citizenship of her father.Le disclosed to the Australian Electoral Commission that her mother was born in Vietnam, but indicated she didn’t know the citizenship of her father.
She declared she had never been a citizen of a foreign country, despite coming to Australia as a refugee from Vietnam at age 11.She declared she had never been a citizen of a foreign country, despite coming to Australia as a refugee from Vietnam at age 11.
Le posted on Facebook:Le posted on Facebook:
.css-knbk2a{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}This morning there have been extensive media enquiries in relation to my eligibility to satisfy Section 44 of the Australian Constitution to stand for election. .css-cumn2r{height:1em;width:1.5em;margin-right:3px;vertical-align:baseline;fill:#C70000;}This morning there have been extensive media enquiries in relation to my eligibility to satisfy Section 44 of the Australian Constitution to stand for election.
I can confirm that the AEC accepted my application to stand for the federal election and that I’m not a subject or a citizen of another country, and was not when I lodged my nomination form with the AEC prior to the close of the nomination.I can confirm that the AEC accepted my application to stand for the federal election and that I’m not a subject or a citizen of another country, and was not when I lodged my nomination form with the AEC prior to the close of the nomination.
It’s important to note that the AEC does not conduct inquiries into candidates’ eligibility, so the AEC accepting a nomination in itself doesn’t say anything about eligibility, as the many MPs disqualified in the 45th parliament can testify.It’s important to note that the AEC does not conduct inquiries into candidates’ eligibility, so the AEC accepting a nomination in itself doesn’t say anything about eligibility, as the many MPs disqualified in the 45th parliament can testify.
Anyone who wants to dispute an election result or a candidate’s eligibility has 40 days from the return of the writ to do so.Anyone who wants to dispute an election result or a candidate’s eligibility has 40 days from the return of the writ to do so.
Guardian Australia contacted Le for comment.Guardian Australia contacted Le for comment.
Eligibility for fourth dose of Covid vaccine expandedEligibility for fourth dose of Covid vaccine expanded
The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (Atagi) has expanded the recommendations on the use of the fourth dose of a Covid-19 vaccine.The Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (Atagi) has expanded the recommendations on the use of the fourth dose of a Covid-19 vaccine.
The new advice recommends a winter Covid booster for people aged 16 to 64 who have a medical condition that increases the risk of severe Covid illness, and people with a disability with significant or complex health needs or multiple comorbidities.The new advice recommends a winter Covid booster for people aged 16 to 64 who have a medical condition that increases the risk of severe Covid illness, and people with a disability with significant or complex health needs or multiple comorbidities.
Atagi said healthy people aged 16 to 64 who do not have risk factors for severe Covid are not recommended to receive an additional winter dose at this time.Atagi said healthy people aged 16 to 64 who do not have risk factors for severe Covid are not recommended to receive an additional winter dose at this time.
In March, Atagi recommended the fourth Covid dose for people aged over 65, residents of aged care or disability care facilities, immunocompromised people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years or above.In March, Atagi recommended the fourth Covid dose for people aged over 65, residents of aged care or disability care facilities, immunocompromised people and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 50 years or above.
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