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Ben Roberts-Smith loses defamation appeal over war crimes findings

<p>Decorated war veteran Ben Roberts-Smith has lost a high-profile legal appeal seeking to overturn findings that he likely engaged in war crimes during his service in Afghanistan.</p> <p>The Federal Court dismissed the former soldier’s defamation appeal on Friday, marking a major defeat for Australia's most decorated living soldier and potentially concluding a years-long legal battle that has captivated the nation. Roberts-Smith, who was not present in court, now faces a substantial legal bill estimated to exceed $25 million.</p> <p>Lawyers for Nine newspapers, who published the original reports in 2018, were seen embracing outside the courthouse, visibly jubilant over the outcome. "The smile says it all," one lawyer told reporters. In contrast, Roberts-Smith’s legal team declined to comment as they left the building.</p> <p>Roberts-Smith, a Victoria Cross recipient, sued Nine and investigative journalists Nick McKenzie and Chris Masters over a series of reports alleging he was involved in the unlawful killing of unarmed civilians while deployed with the SAS in Afghanistan. In 2023, Justice Anthony Besanko ruled the allegations were substantially true, including claims that Roberts-Smith was involved in the murder of four unarmed Afghan men.</p> <p>Among the most damning accusations were that Roberts-Smith executed a man with a prosthetic leg and encouraged fellow soldiers to use the leg as a drinking vessel. He was also accused of ordering the killing of an elderly prisoner in 2009 to initiate a junior soldier, and of kicking a bound prisoner off a cliff before having him executed in 2012. Another killing was linked to a weapons cache found in the village of Cinartu.</p> <p>These claims were upheld by Justice Besanko on the balance of probabilities, a standard used in civil cases. Friday's ruling confirmed the original judgment, with the full court dismissing the appeal. The court’s written reasons are expected to be released in the coming days.</p> <p>Nine successfully argued that its reporting was grounded in solid evidence and that Justice Besanko’s findings were appropriately supported.</p> <p>Roberts-Smith, once hailed as a national hero for his bravery under fire and named Australian Father of the Year, now faces the prospect of paying Nine’s legal costs for both the original trial and the failed appeal. His legal team may consider taking the matter to the High Court, but such a move would be his final legal recourse in a saga that has spanned more than seven years.</p> <p>Despite the serious nature of the findings, Roberts-Smith has not been criminally charged in relation to any of the alleged incidents.</p> <p><em>Image: Today show</em></p>

Legal

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Aussie Olympian sentenced over wife's death

<p>Olympic cycling champion Rohan Dennis has received a suspended prison sentence over a road incident that led to the tragic death of his wife, fellow Olympian Melissa Hoskins, in Adelaide late last year.</p> <p>Dennis, 34, appeared before South Australia’s District Court on Wednesday, where he was sentenced to one year, four months and 28 days in prison. However, Judge Ian Press suspended the sentence, citing Dennis’s guilty plea, remorse and his responsibilities as the sole carer for the couple’s two young children.</p> <p>Dennis had earlier pleaded guilty to committing an aggravated act likely to cause harm in relation to the events of 30 December 2023.</p> <p>Judge Press acknowledged the deep impact of the incident, saying that calling it "tragic" did not do justice to the "grief, anguish and turmoil" experienced by those close to Hoskins.</p> <p>Hoskins, 32, died after being struck by Dennis's vehicle outside their home in Medindie, Adelaide. The court heard the couple had been arguing over kitchen renovations before Dennis left the house and got into his car.</p> <p>During the confrontation, Hoskins reportedly jumped onto the car’s bonnet. Judge Press described driving with a person on the bonnet as “an inherently risky and dangerous act”. After she dismounted and attempted to open the car door, Dennis closed it and accelerated without realising she was still holding onto the vehicle. Hoskins then fell and suffered fatal injuries.</p> <p>Judge Press made it clear that Dennis was not charged with causing Hoskins’s death, but rather with a dangerous act that contributed to the chain of events. “I accept you have a sense of responsibility for all that occurred,” he told Dennis. “I accept you have anguished over what could have been different if you had acted in some other way.”</p> <p>Dennis, who remained emotionless throughout the sentencing, was also issued a $100, two-year good behaviour bond, and his driver's licence was suspended for five years. The judge warned that any breach of the driving ban would result in immediate imprisonment.</p> <p>Outside court, Hoskins’s father Peter expressed the family's grief but also their desire to move forward. “We miss Melissa terribly,” he said, his voice breaking. “But it’s time for us to move on, which would be Melissa’s expectation of us.”</p> <p>He added that the family intended to remain closely involved in the lives of the couple’s children and hoped to maintain a respectful relationship with Dennis. “They deserve this. They have done nothing wrong,” he said.</p> <p>Though the family had not yet received an apology from Dennis, Hoskins said he believed it would come in time. He also clarified they had not sought a custodial sentence, saying, “For them to go and lose their dad… albeit a temporary loss… I don’t think that would be ideal at all.”</p> <p>Melissa Hoskins was a celebrated cyclist, having represented Australia in the team pursuit at the 2012 and 2016 Olympics and winning a world championship in 2015. Rohan Dennis is a two-time world champion in the road time trial and a dual Olympic medallist.</p> <p>The case has drawn widespread public attention, not only for the prominence of the individuals involved, but also for the deeply personal and painful circumstances surrounding the incident.</p> <p><em>Image: Fox Sports</em></p>

Legal

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Car thief found guilty after running over young "hero" cop

<p>A man high on methamphetamine who killed a young police officer during a chaotic pursuit in Perth has been found guilty of manslaughter, bringing a painful but long-awaited moment of justice for a grieving family and police force.</p> <p>Reagan Ainslie Chown, 25, was convicted in the Supreme Court on Tuesday for the death of Constable Anthony Woods, 28, who was fatally injured on June 8, 2023, after being dragged under a stolen vehicle in the Perth suburb of Ascot.</p> <p>Constable Woods – described by colleagues and loved ones as a rising star and a true hero – had only just completed his probationary training when he was killed in the line of duty.</p> <p>The courtroom was heavy with emotion as the jury returned its guilty verdict after less than three hours of deliberation. Woods’ family members sobbed openly, clinging to each other as the decision was read.</p> <p>“We’re just overwhelmed. We’re absolutely so happy with the verdict,” said his mother, Natalie Woods, fighting through tears outside the courthouse. “It’s been a huge year-and-a-half and I just want to thank all the police and detectives and everyone that’s been there for us. Now we can let him rest and start just living his memory the best way we can.”</p> <p>Chown had tried to shift the blame, claiming Constable Woods had “put himself in a dangerous position” and that he had lost control of his body during the incident. But police leaders and prosecutors strongly rejected the defence.</p> <p>“Anthony was a hero to all of us,” said WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch. “I reject any notion that Anthony should not have done what he did. He did his job. He never got to go home from his shift that night.”</p> <p>Blanch called the suggestion that Constable Woods was at fault “offensive and disgusting”, adding that the entire police force – often referred to as the "blue family" – had been mourning deeply since the tragedy. “But today is a small piece of justice,” he said.</p> <p>The court heard that Chown and two accomplices were fleeing police in a stolen Holden Cruz when they entered a cul-de-sac. As Constable Woods opened the driver's side door and attempted to arrest Chown, the officer deployed his Taser. In the chaos that followed, Woods fell and was dragged under the vehicle. He died days later from cardiac arrest caused by mechanical compression injuries.</p> <p>Prosecutor Justin Whalley said Chown had meth in his system at the time and was still in possession of the drug. Chown had earlier admitted to stealing the car and reckless driving, but pleaded not guilty to manslaughter.</p> <p>Constable Woods was laid to rest in a funeral attended by more than 2,000 mourners at Optus Stadium, including officers from around the country. The service was a solemn tribute to a man whose bravery and dedication touched the lives of many.</p> <p>“We will never stop missing him,” Constable Woods' mother said. “But today, we found a little bit of peace.”</p> <p>Chown is due to be sentenced on July 3. </p>

Legal

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Missing mum of two found after 60 years

<p>In a stunning breakthrough to one of America's longest-running cold cases, a woman who disappeared more than 60 years ago has been found alive and well – living in another state and expressing “no regrets” for leaving her past behind.</p> <p>Audrey Backeberg was just 20 years old when she vanished on July 7, 1962, from her home in Reedsburg, Wisconsin, where she lived with her husband, Ronald Backeberg, and their two young children. Her sudden disappearance launched a decades-long search that ultimately went cold – until now.</p> <p>In a press release issued Thursday, the Sauk County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Ms Backeberg had been located alive following a renewed investigation into her case earlier this year.</p> <p>“Through diligent investigative work, which included a thorough re-evaluation of all case files and evidence, combined with reinterviewing witnesses and uncovering new insights, the Sheriff’s Office is now able to report that Audrey Backeberg is alive and well,” the department announced.</p> <p>The cold case was reassigned in March to Detective Isaac Hanson, who led the breakthrough investigation. His review included interviews with old witnesses, analysis of historical evidence, and a key lead involving a relative’s Ancestry.com profile.</p> <p>“That was pretty key,” Hanson told WISN, describing how the online genealogy database helped him trace public records that eventually led to a current address. Once the address was identified, Hanson contacted the local sheriff’s department in the area. “Ten minutes later, she called me,” he said.</p> <p>In a 45-minute phone conversation with Detective Hanson, Ms Backeberg confirmed her identity and shared that she left her family to escape what she described as an abusive and dangerous home environment.</p> <p>“She sounded happy. Confident in her decision. No regrets,” Hanson said.</p> <p>Just days before her disappearance in 1962, Ms Backeberg had filed a criminal complaint alleging that her husband had beaten her severely and threatened her life. Despite this, the couple remained in the home together, with their children.</p> <p>On the day she vanished, Audrey reportedly left to collect a paycheck from her job at a woollen mill – but never returned. Rumours and conflicting accounts emerged over the years, including claims from a 14-year-old babysitter who said she saw Ms Backeberg hitchhike to Madison and take a bus to Indiana. Later, the same individual, when re-interviewed as an adult, claimed Audrey may have ingested pills before departing and might have connected with local construction workers.</p> <p>For decades, her family believed Audrey would never willingly abandon her children. Her husband reportedly spent years chasing leads, but no trace of her was ever found – until now.</p> <p>While authorities have not disclosed the state where Ms Backeberg currently resides, Detective Hanson said she had been living safely and independently all these years.</p> <p>“She just moved on from things and led her life,” he said.</p> <p>Authorities have closed the case with the confirmation that Audrey Backeberg left of her own volition and was not in danger at any point during the six decades she was missing.</p> <p><em>Images: Wisconsin Police</em></p>

Family & Pets

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Q+A descends into acrimony over Welcome to Country debate

<p>The ABC’s flagship program <em>Q+A</em> erupted into heated exchanges on Monday night as panellists clashed over the role and frequency of Welcome to Country ceremonies, amid growing national debate sparked by political and community divisions.</p> <p>The discussion was triggered when audience member Peter asked how tensions over the ceremonies could be resolved "amicably" and "in the interest of all parties", following escalating disagreement between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton during the current federal election campaign.</p> <p>Liberal MP Paul Fletcher argued from the Q+A panel that while it was important to recognise the “distinctive place” of Indigenous Australians, many in the community felt there were now too many ceremonial acknowledgements.</p> <p>The issue has been further inflamed after neo-Nazis booed a Welcome to Country delivered by Bunurong man Uncle Mark Brown during the Anzac Day Dawn Service at Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance – a move that was swiftly condemned by both major political parties.</p> <p>However, Mr Dutton later suggested that Welcome to Country ceremonies were being overused and questioned their appropriateness for solemn occasions like Anzac Day.</p> <p>On <em>Q+A</em>, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek defended the tradition, particularly at Anzac Day events, arguing it was "perfectly appropriate" to acknowledge the service of Indigenous Australians in the military.</p> <p>Fletcher countered that veterans should be consulted on the issue, prompting a sharp exchange when Plibersek retorted that he was speaking as if Indigenous veterans did not exist. Fletcher accused her of using “straw man rhetoric”, insisting, “The role of Indigenous people in defending Australia over many conflicts has been very significant. Nobody is contesting that for a second.”</p> <p>Greens leader Adam Bandt also weighed in, launching a scathing attack on Dutton’s handling of the matter. “It’s gutter politics from an Opposition leader whose campaign is in free fall and he’s starting to punch down,” Bandt said. He accused Dutton of spreading misinformation during the Voice referendum campaign and likened his tactics to those of US President Donald Trump.</p> <p>“He’s playing from the Trump play book as his campaign is in free fall. Punching down. Playing from the Trump play book and we’ll call it out," Bandt said.</p> <p><em>Image: ABC's Q+A</em></p>

TV

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Major breakthrough over mother of three missing for two months

<p>Authorities have located a ute believed to belong to Tayla Spies, a Queensland mother of three who vanished more than two months ago.</p> <p>Spies, 29, was last seen on CCTV footage at a service station in Condamine on Sunday, February 2. She had spent the weekend with her partner in Dalby but failed to return home to Roma. Since her disappearance, she has not contacted any family or friends, heightening concerns for her safety.</p> <p>Police confirmed on Frida morning that they discovered Spies’ white Toyota Hilux in Noorindoo, approximately 40km north-east of Surat. Officers were alerted to the vehicle’s presence on a property along Yuleba-Sarat Road at about 3pm. A search of the vehicle revealed some of Spies’ belongings inside, though authorities have not disclosed specific details about the items found.</p> <p>Before its recovery, the ute was last seen on CCTV traveling down Surat’s main street at 11:10am on the day she went missing. This sighting remains a crucial piece of evidence in the ongoing investigation. Authorities have since resumed extensive searches in the area in hopes of finding further clues about her whereabouts.</p> <p>Spies is described as Caucasian, approximately 170cm tall, with a slim build, brown shoulder-length hair, and blue eyes. She has the word "KARMA" tattooed across her chest. Her family and friends continue to plead for any information that might help locate her.</p> <p>Police and local search teams have been scouring the surrounding area, using drones, tracking dogs, and ground search crews to cover as much terrain as possible. Despite these efforts, there have been no confirmed sightings of Spies since she was last seen on CCTV in Condamine.</p> <p>Authorities urge anyone with information regarding her disappearance to come forward. Whether it be a small detail or a major lead, investigators are keen to speak with anyone who may have seen Spies or her vehicle. Those with information are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers or their nearest police station immediately.</p> <p><em>Images: Queensland Police</em></p>

Legal

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"No sympathy": 26-year-old roasted over massive tax bill complaint

<p>It’s a classic tale of riches to tax brackets – OnlyFans creator Talia Batiste, 26, has found herself in the fiery depths of an Australian Tax Office reckoning, and the internet has wasted no time serving up a heaping plate of zero sympathy.</p> <p>Batiste, who revealed that she’s been hit with a tax bill totalling $71,008.45 (yes, she included the cents for maximum devastation), took to social media to lament her financial woes.</p> <p>“For everyone that likes to make sure I’m paying my tax. I’m going to go and cry myself to sleep now,” she wrote, presumably while clutching her silk pillow stuffed with $100 bills.</p> <p>The internet’s reaction? Less “thoughts and prayers”, more “play stupid games, win inevitable government-mandated financial responsibilities”.</p> <p>“Absolutely robbery,” one concerned citizen commented, clearly distressed by the idea of anyone having to contribute to society.</p> <p>“To pay that much tax, you earn a sh**load. No sympathy,” another user shot back, presumably while furiously entering their own lacklustre income into a tax return calculator.</p> <p>Some were more pragmatic, offering sage financial wisdom. “I hope you have a good accountant to get you those tax deductions,” someone advised, the unspoken message being: “There’s still hope, young one.”</p> <p>While many scoffed at the idea of crying over a salary that most people only see on TV shows where billionaires buy entire islands for sport, Batiste remained defiant.</p> <p><a href="https://www.news.com.au/finance/economy/cry-myself-to-sleep-26yearold-in-tears-over-giant-tax-bill/news-story/7adfcb10f0ea62a1749f4dc6c1b65934" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Speaking to news.com.au</a>, she admitted that the bill “wasn’t too bad” compared to the tax nightmares of yesteryear. (Yes, it turns out paying taxes gets easier when you know they’re coming. Who knew?)</p> <p>Batiste revealed that an early accounting blunder had initially classified her as a sole trader rather than a business, making her tax situation about as pleasant as a surprise phone call from the ATO.</p> <p>“So when I make $400,000+ a year, it looks like that is my personal income rather than money going back into a business,” she explained, finally unlocking the ancient wisdom of self-employment taxation. Now, with proper financial advice in place, she says she takes a modest salary while the rest of her earnings go into business expenses – like, presumably, funding the tissue budget for her post-tax breakdowns.</p> <p>Despite her newfound tax strategy, Batiste insists that the process “never gets easier”. (Except for last year, when she owed a whopping $136k, making this year’s bill look like pocket change by comparison.)</p> <p>She also had some words about Australia’s taxation system: “Everybody pays too much tax.”</p> <p>Yes, much like death and bad reality TV spin-offs, taxation is inevitable. But Batiste isn’t letting it get her down – at least, not too much. Even though she says she’s “prepared” for these bills now, that doesn’t mean she enjoys sending her hard-earned money into the great abyss of government spending.</p> <p>“Hitting send on that ATO payment hurts every time,” she said.</p> <p>Meanwhile, taxpayers earning a fraction of her income simply sighed, checked their bank balances, and went back to their regularly scheduled programming: budgeting how to afford avocados and rent in the same month.</p> <p><em>Images: TikTok</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Welcome to the "please pull me over" club

<p>If you're like me – and most Aussie drivers – I do my best to avoid being pulled over. I check my mirrors, stick to the speed limit (mostly), and keep my rego up to date. But for some "people" out there, the road rules are more of a vague suggestion than a requirement. Enter the sovereign citizen number plate fiasco – because what better way to invite the attention of the cops than slapping an illegal plate on your car?</p> <p>In Adelaide this week, one particularly bold Toyota driver decided to test the limits of both the law and common sense by cruising around with a number plate that simply read "PRIVATE". If that wasn’t enough to get the attention of South Australia Police, the plate also featured the cryptic phrase "Special Trust Security" below that in tiny letter. Because nothing says "totally legitimate vehicle" like an official-looking but entirely made-up title.</p> <p>A sharp-eyed local spotted this masterpiece of vehicular rebellion and did what any responsible citizen would do: posted it online for all of Australia to mock. "What the F are these? Surely not legal?" they asked, unknowingly triggering a flood of gleeful internet ridicule.</p> <p>"They're plates which will guarantee SAPOL will pull them over at their first opportunity," one commenter noted. Others speculated that the driver might be part of the ever-growing "sovereign citizen" movement – a loose collection of legal theorists whose main belief is that laws are just an optional lifestyle choice.</p> <p>SAPOL wasted no time <a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/drivers-bizarre-number-plate-prompts-933-fine-warning-not-legal-010747837.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">confirming that these plates were, in fact, highly illegal</a>. Not just "a slap on the wrist" illegal – more like "here's a $933 fine before you even get to say 'but my rights!'" illegal. "These plates appear fake and are not plates that have been issued by SA Department for Infrastructure and Transport," a police spokesperson told Yahoo News. Translation: They might as well have written their rego number on a napkin.</p> <p>The online reaction was ruthless. "It’s the best way to show off your dreadful understanding of the law to an already disinterested police officer," one person quipped. Another called it "a sovereign citizen in the wild", while a third dubbed them "please pull me over plates". The internet, as always, did not disappoint.</p> <p>But this isn't a one-off. In 2023, a photo surfaced of a Holden in Queensland sporting an even more outlandish plate. This one featured the text "Private Property Non-Commercial, Living Woman, Terra Australia Incognito", and even claimed that removing the plate would incur a $50,000 fine. Extra points for creativity, but again, zero points for legal accuracy. Even more baffling, the plate included a real registration number – in absurdly tiny print. Presumably for that tiny sliver of plausible deniability.</p> <p>While most of us are content to pay our rego and drive without incident, these rogue motorists seem determined to treat traffic laws like a choose-your-own-adventure book. Unfortunately for them, SAPOL isn't in the habit of playing along. So next time you see someone cruising around with an official-looking but entirely nonsensical number plate, just remember – they’re not just driving, they’re providing free entertainment for the rest of us.</p> <p><em>Images: Reddit</em></p>

Legal

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Jeremy Clarkson declares victory over Elon Musk, orders champagne

<p>In news that will surprise absolutely no one, Jeremy Clarkson has once again fired shots at Tesla chief executive Elon Musk, officially declaring himself the winner of a long-running feud that has been about as dramatic as a slow-speed parking lot collision.</p> <p><a href="https://www.thetimes.com/comment/columnists/article/seventeen-years-after-that-nice-mr-musk-sued-me-victory-is-mine-z6m5lq90t" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Writing in <em>The Times</em></a>, Clarkson exulted, "victory is mine", as Tesla’s sales, share price and overall desirability have taken a nosedive faster than a Cybertruck’s resale value.</p> <p>The feud between the two began years ago when Clarkson, in his infinite wisdom and love for combustion engines, gave the original Tesla Roadster a less-than-stellar review on the wildly popular <em>Top Gear</em>. Musk, never one to shy away from a legal skirmish, promptly filed a lawsuit, claiming Clarkson and his team had fabricated breakdowns during filming. The courts, however, disagreed, dismissing Musk’s claims with the legal equivalent of an eye-roll. As Clarkson smugly recalls, "he lost the case, and the appeal, and he’s never really got over it".</p> <p>Now, with Tesla’s fortunes dimming like the headlights of a Model 3 after one too many software updates, Clarkson is relishing the moment. He sarcastically wonders how Musk is handling the turn of events, especially given that "the eco hippies who used to idolise him have turned on his cars". Apparently, those who once saw Tesla as the shining hope of the future are now treating it like an unwanted pair of Crocs – something they were once excited about but now deeply regret.</p> <p>Recent reports show that Tesla vehicles in the US are being vandalised at an alarming rate, possibly by disillusioned former fans or rogue members of Clarkson’s fan club. Meanwhile, sales in major markets like the US and Germany have plummeted by 70 percent. Reuters even reported that Tesla trade-ins have tripled.</p> <p>Of course, Musk, never one to let a good Twitter (or should we say X?) battle pass him by, may eventually respond with his usual blend of memes and cryptic threats to relocate Tesla to Mars. But Clarkson, in his weekend column, seems entirely unbothered. “I should really have sued him back, but I feared he’d call me a paedo, so instead I just waited on the river bank for his body to float past. And now it has.”</p> <p>There’s something almost Shakespearean about the whole affair, except instead of poetic monologues and tragic endings, we get Clarkson smirking and Musk possibly rage-tweeting into the abyss. Meanwhile, Clarkson spares a moment of sympathy for Tesla owners, calling them "deluded fools" who bought into the hype but still work hard to make their monthly payments. "Even though I think it’s nothing more than a wheeled white good, it’s their pride and joy. So it’s not fair for someone with hairy armpits and no job to set fire to it."</p> <p>With a new Amazon motoring show on the horizon, Clarkson will no doubt continue to share his thoughts on Tesla, electric cars and anything else that catches his ire. As for Musk, he’ll likely carry on plotting world domination, launching rockets and possibly developing an AI to create the perfect Twitter comeback.</p> <p>The world keeps turning, and the feud continues. Pass the popcorn.</p> <p><em>Images: Reddit / Wikicommons Gage Skidmore</em></p>

Money & Banking

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“They are treating us like chumps": Karl fires up over supermarket practices

<p>In a heated interview on the <em>Today </em>show, Karl Stefanovic confronted Treasurer Jim Chalmers over the conduct of major supermarket chains, accusing them of treating Australian consumers like "chumps". The exchange followed the release of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission’s (ACCC) final report into supermarket practices, highlighting concerns over price-gouging, misleading discounts and "shrinkflation".</p> <p>The ACCC’s inquiry found that the dominance of Woolworths, which controls 38% of the national grocery market, and Coles, which holds 29%, has resulted in an “oligopolistic” effect. Despite this, the regulator refrained from endorsing Opposition Leader Peter Dutton’s call for greater powers to dismantle the supermarket giants, cautioning that there was no “silver bullet” solution.</p> <p>Treasurer Chalmers acknowledged the ongoing cost-of-living pressures, saying that “Australians are still feeling that pressure at the checkout. And that’s why we’re cracking down on the supermarkets.” He added that the government was working to foster greater competition in the industry to prevent further consumer exploitation.</p> <p>However, Stefanovic challenged Chalmers, arguing that no significant changes had been made to curb supermarket dominance. “They are treating us like chumps and they continue to,” he said. “And I’ve not seen anything that’s going to stop them from doing that.”</p> <p>Chalmers then defended the government’s economic policies, citing key improvements including declining inflation, rising real wages and economic growth. “We know that people are still under pressure,” he admitted but insisted that progress was being made.</p> <p>In response to the ACCC report, Coles issued a statement claiming the company also faces financial pressures, including rising rents and electricity costs. “We do not control these inflationary costs in the economy – but they contribute to higher grocery prices for Australian households,” the statement read.</p> <p>Coles also defended its pricing strategy, stating that grocery inflation (excluding tobacco) remained at just 1% for the first half of the financial year. The company assured that it is reviewing the ACCC’s recommendations and has already implemented changes to improve pricing transparency and customer communication.</p> <p><em>Images: The Today show</em></p>

Money & Banking

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Prince William shares deeply personal message over fallen war hero

<p>Prince William has shared a deeply personal message in remembrance of John 'Paddy' Hemingway, the last surviving pilot from the Battle of Britain, who passed away on St Patrick's Day at the age of 105.</p> <p>The Prince of Wales, a former Royal Air Force (RAF) pilot himself, took to social media on Tuesday to express his condolences and gratitude for Hemingway’s service.</p> <p>"I was sad to hear about the passing of John 'Paddy' Hemingway this morning, the last of 'The Few'," the 42-year-old royal wrote on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter. "We owe so much to Paddy and his generation for our freedoms today. Their bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered. We shall never forget them."</p> <p>Hemingway, born in Dublin, Ireland, in 1919, joined the RAF as a teenager and became one of the young airmen who defended Britain during the pivotal 1940 Battle of Britain. These pilots, immortalised as "The Few" following a famous speech by then-Prime Minister Winston Churchill, played a crucial role in thwarting the German air offensive during World War II.</p> <p>Churchill’s words – "Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few" – have since become a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of Hemingway and his fellow pilots.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">I was sad to hear about the passing of John ‘Paddy’ Hemingway this morning, the last of “The Few”. We owe so much to Paddy and his generation for our freedoms today. Their bravery and sacrifice will always be remembered. We shall never forget them. W</p> <p>— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KensingtonRoyal/status/1901914010863202506?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2025</a></p></blockquote> <p>Current Prime Minister Keir Starmer also paid tribute to Hemingway, acknowledging his extraordinary courage and contribution to securing the nation's freedom.</p> <p>"Very sad to hear of the passing of Group Captain John 'Paddy' Hemingway, the last known Battle of Britain pilot," Starmer wrote on X. "His courage, and that of all RAF pilots, helped end WWII and secure our freedom. We will never forget their bravery and service. Thank you, John 'Paddy' Hemingway."</p> <p>King Charles has yet to make a public statement, but RAF Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton honoured Hemingway’s remarkable legacy, remembering him as "an amazing character" who carried the spirit of camaraderie and bravery throughout his life.</p> <p>"Paddy always had a twinkle in his eyes as he recalled the fun times with colleagues in France and London," the RAF said in a statement announcing his passing.</p> <p>Hemingway’s passing marks the end of an era, but his service and sacrifice will live on in history. As the last of 'The Few', he leaves behind a legacy of courage that will continue to inspire generations to come.</p> <p><em>Images: Instagram \ Royal Airforce</em></p>

Caring

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NSW Health worker charged over anti-semitic remarks

<p>A NSW Health worker who went viral over his <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/legal/nsw-health-workers-stood-down-over-anti-semitic-remarks" target="_blank" rel="noopener">anti-semitic remarks</a> during a video call at Bankstown-Lidcombe hospital in Sydney's west has been charged. </p> <p>Ahmed Rashid Nadir, 27, and female co-worker Sarah Abu Lebdeh, 26, were recorded in a video call with Israeli influencer Max Veifer, where they said they would refuse to treat Israeli patients and allegedly threatened to kill them. </p> <p>The video has since gone viral and both nurses were stood down from their positions. </p> <p>After being stood down from the hospital, Nadir issued an apology through his lawyer, and told reporters the incident was a misunderstanding and a mistake. </p> <p>Nadir was arrested on Tuesday evening, and charged with threatening to menace, harass, or offend, as well as possessing a prohibited drug.</p> <p>He has been granted conditional bail and is scheduled to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday, March 19, 2025.</p> <p>Lebdeh, was charged last Tuesday, and faces charges of threatening violence to a group, using a carriage service to threaten to kill, and using a carriage service to menace, harass, or offend, according to NSW Police.</p> <p>She is also scheduled to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on March 19. </p> <p>At the time of her arrest, Nadir was taken to hospital for assessment after paramedics were called to his home. He has reportedly been receiving ongoing medical treatment since then. </p> <p>The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency previously confirmed the pair’s credentials were no longer valid and they “cannot practise in Australia”.</p> <p><em>Image: TikTok</em></p> <p> </p>

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Over 350k Aussies to be forced back into the office

<p>Opposition leader Peter Dutton has vowed to end working from home arrangements for public servants, forcing them back into an office five days a week. </p> <p>The leader of the Coalition will end flexible work arrangements for federal government employees, which currently allows them to work from home for two days a week.</p> <p>According to a report in the <a href="https://www.afr.com/policy/economy/coalition-to-force-public-servants-to-return-to-the-office-20250303-p5lge3" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-link-type="article-inline"><em>Australian Financial Review</em>,</a> the Coalition will also make massive job cuts, slashing about 36,000 jobs, which will save about $6 billion per year, if elected in the upcoming federal election.</p> <p>Prime Minister Anthony Albanese warned that the drastic move would impact frontline workers, meaning slower delivery times for Aussies on benefits, including veterans.</p> <p>Opposition spokeswoman Jane Hume said the government has offered a “blank cheque to work from home” to employees, saying it was “unsustainable” and “not an arrangement that works for everyone”.</p> <p>On Tuesday, <em>7News</em> reporter Nick McCallum and Founding Director of Western Sydney Women, Amanda Rose, spoke with Nat Barr about the policy on <em>Sunrise</em>.</p> <p>“Nick, would there be a revolt if public servants are ordered back to the office?” Barr asked.</p> <p>“I have no doubt there would be. I actually like the policy. I think it is ridiculous that, what is it now, more than 60 per cent of federal public servants have ability to work at home,” McCallum said.</p> <p>“There is a big ‘but’ to all of this: Peter Dutton, it’s a perfect policy for him to sound tough, sound Donald Trump-like, bang his chest and say ‘I am going to demand they come back’ but they’ve recently signed a workplace agreement and under that there is a presumption that they can work at home."</p> <p>“All people in the public service can at least request it. There is a presumption they can do it and there is no limit on the number of days they can actually work from home."</p> <p>“So, he can’t really change that until 2027 anyway. So, call me cynical but it’s a perfect policy for him but at the moment he can’t do a lot about it.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: STEVEN MARKHAM/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock Editorial </em></p>

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Man who saved the lives of over 2 million babies dies aged 88

<p>James Harrison OAM, the famous Australian blood donor who saved the lives of 2.4 million babies by donating his rare plasma, has died aged 88. </p> <p>Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has confirmed that Harrison died "peacefully" on February 17 at Peninsula Village Nursing Home on the NSW Central Coast. </p> <p>Harrison, also known as the Man with the Golden Arm, began donating in the 1950s became the world's most prolific blood and plasma donor thanks to his rare antibody, Anti-D, which helps mothers who are at risk of passing on deadly antibodies to their babies. </p> <p>Since he started donating at the age of 18, Harrison has donated 1173 times, continuing his kind act up until his retirement in 2018 aged 81. </p> <p>His family have since paid tribute to him, with his daughter Tracey Mellowship, remembering him as a generous soul. </p> <p>"James was a humanitarian at heart, but also very funny," she said. </p> <p>"In his last years, he was immensely proud to become a great grandfather to two beautiful grandchildren, Trey and Addison.</p> <p>"As an Anti-D recipient myself, he has left behind a family that may not have existed without his precious donations."</p> <p>Lifeblood Chief Executive Officer Stephen Cornelissen added that Harrison's impact has made a difference all around the world. </p> <p>"James was a remarkable, stoically kind, and generous person who was committed to a lifetime of giving and he captured the hearts of many people around the world," Cornelissen said.</p> <p>"It was James' belief that his donations were no more important than any other donors', and that everyone can be special in the same way that he was.</p> <p>"James extended his arm to help others and babies he would never know a remarkable 1173 times and expected nothing in return."</p> <p>"He leaves behind an incredible legacy, and it was his hope that one day, someone in Australia would beat his donation record," he added. </p> <p>"On behalf of Lifeblood, and the entire Australian community, we thank James for the incredible life- saving contribution he made and the millions of lives he saved."</p> <p>Harrison's rare blood and plasma may continue to save lives even after his death, with researches hoping they would be able to use his blood to develop lab-grown Anti-D. </p> <p><em>Image: Nine News</em></p>

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Albo quizzed over luxury home purchase

<p>Anthony Albanese has been grilled by Karl Stefanovic over the recent purchase of a multi-million dollar home, that was widely slammed by the public as being "out of touch". </p> <p>As part of his pre-election campaign, the Prime Minister and his fiancé Jodie Haydon sat down with <em>60 Minutes</em> where they discussed the controversial real estate move. </p> <p>Karl Stefanovic described as the $4.1 million purchase of the Copacabana holiday home as “harebrained", as Albo defended his decision to buy the home. </p> <p>“Whose harebrained idea was Copacabana?” Stefanovic asked as the program began.</p> <p>Mr Albanese, who is notoriously sensitive about the purchase amid claims it was tone-deaf during a cost-of-living crisis, laughed at the question as he responded, “Look, Jodie and I are getting married.”</p> <p>“What you don’t do is move into the family home where Carmel and I raised Nathan together as a family. And guess what, Karl? At some stage … I won’t be Prime Minister into my 80s and therefore we have bought a place close to where Jodie grew up … where her family are all based.”</p> <p>In the program, Stefanovic observed that, “I’ve spent some time with her these last couple of days and I get the feeling the girl from the Central Coast would sooner rather than later have her feet up at Copacabana, whether you are there or not!”</p> <p>“No — well, she’s a Coastie and a proud one,” Mr Albanese replied. “And it was very much a personal decision, not a political one. And I think Australians get that.”</p> <p>Karl then asked about the controversy around the home, asking the PM, “Did it sting you at all the criticism around that, the perception being during a cost-of-living crisis, the PM shouldn’t be seen as being, you know, so lavish?” </p> <p>Albanese responded, “I’m pretty resilient, Karl, and if you’re worried about every bit of criticism that was out there, then life would be much more difficult than it is."</p> <p><em>Image credits: 60 Minutes </em></p> <p style="box-sizing: inherit; border: 0px; font-stretch: inherit; line-height: inherit; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', HelveticaNeue, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size-adjust: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-variant-alternates: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-variant-numeric: inherit; font-variant-east-asian: inherit; font-variant-position: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-size: 18px; margin: 0px 0px 24px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </p>

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"Disgusting": Radio host slammed over women's sports comments

<p>Triple M host Marty Sheargold has been slammed online for comments he made on-air about the Matildas and women's sport, with many calling him "disgusting" and "a f**king joke". </p> <p>When the Triple M program and podcast, <em>The Marty Sheargold Show</em>, began discussing the Matildas performance in the annual SheBelieves Cup along in the US along with Japan, Colombia and the host nation.</p> <p>During their discussion of the competition, Sheargold used the opportunity to rip into the world of women's sport, leaving the radio station flooded with complaints. </p> <p>The conversation between Sheargold and co-hosts Troy Ellis and Will Ralson began with Ralston mentioning the tournament to date, as he said, “In football or soccer it’s been a nightmare tournament for the Matildas over the last three or four days over in the US,” referencing the Tillies' defeat to Japan. </p> <p>Sheargold immediately jumped in with the following rant, including downplaying the Matildas’ semi-final appearance at the 2023 FIFA World Cup on home soil.</p> <p>“There’s something wrong with the Matildas,” Sheargold began. “They had that wonderful tournament out here where we all fell in love with them, even though they didn’t make the quarters."</p> <p>“You know what they remind me of? Year 10 girls,” Sheargold continued, as laughter rang out in the background.</p> <p>“All the infighting and all the friendship issues, ‘the coach hates me and I hate bloody training and Michelle’s being a b***h’. Now I’m sorry to undermine the whole sport, but that’s what I think of it so you can stick it up your arse.”</p> <p>Ralston then tried to continue with the sports news bulletin, stating: “So we’re playing in the SheBelieves Cup.”</p> <p>Sheargold jumped in, screaming “Oh, she believes in what? It better be men” as more laughter rang out in the studio. </p> <p>“We’re 12 months out from Australia hosting the Women’s Asian Cup, so hopefully we have a better runway to improve before that comes around,” Ralston said as he tried to continue the sports report. </p> <p>Sheargold responded: “Oh god. The Asian Cup. I’d rather hammer a nail through the head of my penis than watch that,” as a sound affect and more laughs were heard, before he added, “Got any men’s sport?”</p> <p>Ralston replied: “Yeah I do, baseball, the New York Yankees have dropped their 49-year ban on beards, on facial hair,” as Sheargold was quick to comment, “Now this is a good story.”</p> <p>The sexist exchange came to light after Olympic hockey player Ambrosia Malone posted part of the on-air clip on TikTok with the caption: “I honestly don’t know what is wrong with the world."</p> <p>“I heard this on the radio yesterday in prime time (5.30pm) on the way to training and all I could think about was the young girls sitting in the car with their parents, maybe on the way to or from their own training sessions hearing this."</p> <p>“I’m sure many of them would have been hurt and confused … I was in disbelief. This is apparently acceptable on mainstream afternoon radio??? HOW??”</p> <p>Many were quick to share their outrage in the comments section, with one person writing, “Is this a f**king joke?!? I feel like I’m living in a simulation. That cannot be a real recording.”</p> <p>Another added, “Disgusting. Can’t believe they think this is OK to air,” while someone else simply called Sheargold an "awful human."</p> <p>In response to the backlash, an SCA spokesperson said, “Marty Sheargold’s comments regarding the Matildas - made during Triple M Drive on Monday, 24 February - do not align with Triple M's views and values, and Triple M remains steadfast in its strong support of all women's and men's sports. We are sorry for any offence caused.”</p> <p>Marty Sheargold also responded to the controversy, saying in a statement, "Any comedy, including mine, can miss the mark sometimes, and I can see why people may have taken offence to my comments regarding the Matildas. I sincerely apologise.”</p> <p><em>Image credits: Triple M / Getty Images </em></p>

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"Absolutely cooked": Old Sydney home sold for over $4.1 million

<p>A one-storey red brick home in Lane Cove, Sydney has sold for a whopping $4,165,000 at an auction on Saturday. </p> <p>The home, which boasts two bathrooms, a backyard, four bedrooms and a “traditional kitchen” has sold for more than $600,000 over reserve, despite being built between the 1920s-1950s and needing renovation. </p> <p>The home was snapped up by a British family after a fierce bidding war with six other registered buyers. </p> <p>“The people who purchased it were the opening bid. (The bidders) were actively bidding into the high threes, and two of them pushed it above the four mark,” said Sam Lloyd from McGrath Estate Agents.</p> <p>“As far as we know, they will definitely do some work to it to make it their family home.”</p> <p>Lloyd added that there was was “plenty of interest” in the 695 sqm property, with its prime location near the suburb's retail and restaurant precinct. </p> <p>The selling agent said that both himself and the owner were “surprised” by the high price of the property – which had a reserve of $3.5 million.</p> <p>“It was definitely above our expectations” he said.</p> <p>According to Domain, the median house price for a four bedroom home in Lane Cove is $3.505 million. </p> <p>Many expressed their outrage over the "crazy" price online, with freelancer chief executive Matt Barrie saying: “Sydney house prices rapidly approaching $5m. Absolutely cooked."</p> <p>“$4 million for the house, plus another $2-3 million to demolish and rebuild. The reality of living in Australia where even the top one per cent income earners face significant costs for home ownership,” another added. </p> <p>“Our economy is out of control, what a ridiculous price for an average house,” a third wrote.</p> <p>“That’s some crazy pricing! I hear Adelaide is lovely this time of year …” a fourth commented. </p> <p><em>Image: Domain</em></p>

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Locals fuming over "doomsday clock" installation

<p>Residents of Fitzroy have been left divided after the local council erected an $18,000 art installation with a poignant message.</p> <p>The controversial installation, erected in Fitzroy’s Edinburgh Gardens, features a countdown clock tracking the days, hours, and minutes until 2030 — a pivotal year for climate action in Australia, marked by key national and international targets.</p> <p>The piece was created by local artist Yandell Walton and is dubbed "Zone Red", with Walton saying it's the first time she's "created anything to this scale", intended to emphasise the urgency of reducing carbon emissions in order to mitigate global warming.</p> <p>According to Walton, Zone Red confronts the urgent reality of climate change by "visually embodying the countdown to a critical moment in our planet’s future."</p> <p>"The clock, powered by the sun and harnessing renewable energy, becomes a symbol of both our resilience and our vulnerability," the City of Yarra said in a statement.</p> <p>"As each second passes, the installation is a stark reminder of the approaching deadline, creating a powerful juxtaposition between the impending sense of alarm and the hope for change."</p> <p>With many dubbing the work as the "doomsday clock", many have been left divided over the piece, with some people calling it a waste of taxpayer money, while others praising the urgency of its message. </p> <p>One local praised the artist, telling <em>7News</em>, "It's kind of cool ... it makes you think."</p> <p>When asked about the price coughed up by taxpayers, the woman said "I don't know if it's a lot of money in the scheme of art installations", while another said "it's just another reminder that the world's going to be on fire".</p> <p>On the other end of the scale, one local man hit out at what he described as "bulls**t in my face".</p> <p>"Truthfully, it's just crap," he said. "I'd like to just keep living peacefully and happily and enjoy this park."</p> <p>The sentiment was echoed online, with one local woman writing, "No more money wasted on taxpayers funds. It’s a disgrace what all the councils are doing without community involvement."</p> <p>"Something has to be done about this. Imagine knowing your money is being wasted like that," another man commented.</p> <p>The original plinth once features a statue of Queen Victoria until it vanished mysteriously more than 120 years ago. In April next year, the artwork will again be replaced under the City's Edinburgh Gardens Plinth Program.</p> <p><em>Image credits: 7News</em></p>

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Grieving parents blame hospital over two-year-old's death

<p>Two grieving parents are calling for an independent investigation into a Sydney hospital after the death of their two-year-old son. </p> <p>Elouise and Danny Massa took their son Joe to the emergency department at Northern Beaches Hospital on the morning of September 14th after he had spent the night vomiting.</p> <p>The toddler had hypovolemia, a condition that occurs when the body loses too much fluid, and later tragically died.</p> <p>Joe's parents claim the hospital failed their son "at every level" and he would still be alive if he had received the proper care. </p> <p>In a statement provided to <a href="https://www.9news.com.au/national/grieving-parents-demand-urgent-investigation-into-sydney-hospital-after-death-of-twoyearold-son/a0de6011-adf3-49d2-8206-73ed21331c30" target="_blank" rel="noopener"><em>9News</em></a>, the parents said Joe's heart rate was at 183 beats per minute when they arrived at the emergency department, yet he was misclassified as a low priority, category three patient, instead of red zone, category two.</p> <p>The parents went on to allege that the Northern Beaches hospital missed critical warning signs, including when Joe lost consciousness, and his mother's requests for an IV drip were denied.</p> <p>"I can't tell you what it's like to hold your son in your arms … to be told to sit in your chair while your child is agitated, going in and out of consciousness, lips are turning blue," Mrs Massa told 2GB on Thursday morning.</p> <p>"To be told to wait and have your baby literally dying in your arms is unfathomable and should not be happening at any hospital."</p> <p>For almost three hours, Joe was not hooked up to monitoring equipment while sitting in an emergency department chair. </p> <p>A serious adverse event review conducted by the hospital after Joe's death identified multiple failures, with the report claiming there was a "delay and failure to recognise deterioration" in Joe's condition.</p> <p>Healthscope, which operates the hospital, said in a statement: "Northern Beaches Hospital offers its deepest condolences to the Massa family for the loss of their son, Joe. We recognise Joe's death has caused unimaginable heartache and grief for the family."</p> <p>"We have met with the family to apologise and hear directly about their tragic experience and to discuss the findings of the Serious Adverse Event Review."</p> <p>"We will continue to support the family in any way that we can as we implement the improvements identified in the review, including improvements around triaging processes and internal escalation processes." </p> <div>Joe's mother said no parents should have to go through the pain their family has endured since Joe's untimely death.</p> <p>"Joe was the most beautiful boy, loved by his sister and brother," she said.</p> <p>"He loved dinosaurs. He had the most infectious smile. He was just two months off turning two years old. He was, and is still, the light of our world. The system at Northern Beaches Hospital, the emergency department, entirely failed us at every possible level."</p> <p><em>Image credits: 9News</em></p> </div>

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Protein and healthy ageing: What you need to know if you're over 50

<p>Healthy ageing is the new middle-aged mantra, but where do you start? If you’re over 50, one of the quickest wins in the battle to feeling great and ageing well is to increase your protein intake.</p> <p>Protein is an essential pro-ageing nutrient; it’s not just for gym junkies. It is vital to combat the serious impacts of ageing.</p> <p>Protein helps to stop age-related muscle loss and keep bones strong, when combined with exercise. It supports immune function and plays an essential role in maintaining and repairing body tissues and wound healing.</p> <p>Nutrition scientist Louise Fisher specialises in healthy ageing. She helped <a href="https://www.boldhealth.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bold Health</a> develop its +50 pro-ageing protein powder and she has recently reviewed the past five years of published scientific research on protein and ageing to determine how much protein you really need to age well.</p> <p>The science on protein is moving fast. So, we asked Louise Fisher to share the latest insights on the eight most common questions about protein and healthy ageing. Here are her answers:</p> <p><strong>Does protein help with healthy ageing?</strong></p> <p>Protein is essential for healthy ageing. It helps keep your bones healthy and most importantly, it helps preserve muscle mass to stay strong.</p> <p>From as young as 30, you start to lose muscle mass and strength. This decline is barely noticeable at first, but it can accelerate to become a major problem as you get older impacting strength and mobility, increasing the likelihood of falls and even reducing your lifespan.</p> <p>The good news is you can slow down muscle loss, and even build muscle well into your 90s. Many studies have shown that a higher protein diet, combined with resistance training, is the best way to combat age-related muscle loss and preserve mobility.</p> <p>If you think of your muscles as a brick wall, the protein makes up the bricks and the resistance exercise is the work to build the wall. You need both to build that muscle.</p> <p>That’s not the only way protein helps you age well. Every cell in your body contains protein and your body is constantly using protein. Apart from building and maintaining muscles, protein helps repair tissues, forms the antibodies for your immunity system and the blood cells of our circulatory system, makes up many hormones, such as insulin, builds body structures of bones and collagen, and forms the enzymes we need to absorb nutrients from food and use energy.</p> <p><strong>Why do you need more protein once you turn 50?</strong></p> <p>The 50s are a good time to reassess your diet because simple changes now can have a big effect on your quality of life. Generally, as you age, you need fewer carbohydrates, because insulin resistance and higher blood glucose levels can become a common problem, while more protein becomes essential for muscle health, bone health and general wellbeing.Protein is made up of amino acids. As you get older, your body needs more amino acids to maintain, repair and build muscle. It also becomes less effective at using the amino acids. This is called anabolic resistance.</p> <p>As an example, one study revealed men in their 20s could build muscle with 20g of protein, while men in their 70s needed 40g of protein.</p> <p>Women, especially, need to prioritise protein for optimal bone health, because the drop in oestrogen with menopause increases the risk of developing osteoporosis. As you build and move your muscles, muscle contractions stimulate bone rebuilding. This helps maintain your bone density and reduce the risk of fractures. Stronger muscles help build stronger bones. Higher protein intakes are associated with a lower risk of hip fractures in older adults. </p> <p><strong>How much protein do you need for healthy ageing?</strong></p> <p>The latest science, combined with newer methods of assessing protein needs, show most healthy adults over 50 should consume at least 1g-1.2g of protein for each kilo they weigh, to help maintain muscle mass and age well.</p> <p>The formula is the same, whether you’re male or female. So, as an example a 70kg woman should aim for at least 70-84g of protein a day, and at least 90-108g of protein a day for a 90kg man. If you are doing strength training, as recommended, or other strenuous physical activity, you’ll need even more protein. I recommend at least an extra 20-30g of protein to help with muscle recovery on training days. </p> <p>The other group that needs higher protein intakes are people who might have a poor diet or those recovering from surgery or illness.</p> <p><strong>What are the signs that you’re not getting enough protein?</strong></p> <p>The early warning signs that you are not getting enough protein can be hard to spot. It could be that you are picking up more colds and viruses than normal, or that scratches do not heal as quickly.</p> <p>Sometimes that muscle weakness can show up in little things, for example it’s harder to open jars because of a small drop in grip strength. If you’re not getting enough protein, your body prioritises protein use for functions that keep you alive, such as repairing tissues, maintaining immunity, making new blood cells, hormones and enzymes.</p> <p>Building and maintaining muscle becomes a lower priority. On average most Australians do eat enough protein, but for some groups that’s not the case. People over 50 are at real risk of not getting enough protein to thrive.</p> <p><strong>When is the best time to consume protein for healthy ageing?</strong></p> <p>It may be best to spread your protein intake across the day, getting at least 20-30 g at main meals. Some studies indicate you absorb protein better this way, rather than relying on one high protein meal. In practice, it makes reaching your protein targets much more achievable.</p> <p>In my experience, people often miss protein at breakfast, especially if they just have a coffee or tea and toast or a piece of fruit to start the day. For something quick and easy, I’d suggest Greek yoghurt topped with nuts and fruit or high protein cereal with high protein milk.</p> <p>If you find it hard to eat first thing in the morning, or need something on the go, a protein shake is a great option.If you have been exercising, aim to get that extra 20-30g of protein soon afterwards. Again, a protein shake is often the easiest way to do this.</p> <p><strong>What are the best sources of protein for people over 50?</strong></p> <p>To age well, you need to choose the right sources of protein. It’s not just a matter of eating more sausages, bacon or a bigger steak. To help manage risk factors for heart disease such as cholesterol, it is important to have most of your protein from foods that are low in saturated fats.</p> <p>This means focusing on plant protein and lean animal sources, including lean meat, chicken, fish, legumes (dried and tinned beans, lentils), plant protein powders, tofu, nuts and seeds, reduced fat dairy, and eggs.</p> <p><strong>What’s the best protein powder for people over 50?</strong></p> <p>Look for a protein powder that is low in sugar and has added vitamins and minerals, because, as you get older, you need to make every mouthful count. It’s also a better bang for your buck.</p> <p>On my checklist are vitamin B12, vitamin D, calcium, folate and magnesium. These essential nutrients also support healthy ageing by helping to maintain muscle, bone, and heart health, as well as fight fatigue.</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><em>Tip:</em></span> To avoid that bloated feeling you can sometimes get after drinking a protein shake, choose a protein powder that is lactose-free. Some people find blends with prebiotic fibres and digestive enzymes also help.</p> <p><strong>Why is eating more protein important if you’re dieting?</strong></p> <p>When you lose weight, you also generally lose some muscle mass as well. And the greater the rate of weight loss, the greater the loss of lean muscle.</p> <p>Maintaining protein intakes and resistance training, while trying to lose weight, is important to keep your strength, but not all weight loss methods make it easy to get enough protein.</p> <p>Intermittent fasting often involves people regularly skipping a meal. If poorly planned, this can lead to a shortfall in protein intake. With the increase in use of GLP-1 agonist drugs, such as Ozempic or Wegovy, for weight loss, we’re also starting to see nutritionists suggest that people prioritise protein intake to reduce the risk of sarcopenia, severe muscle and strength loss.</p> <p>Using a protein shake that is low in sugar and contains additional vitamins and minerals is a convenient way to get the nutrients you need and minimise muscle loss.</p> <p><em><strong>Louise Fisher is a highly qualified nutrition scientist with more than 10 years of experience as a clinical dietitian. Her key areas of expertise are healthy aging, diet, and exercise.</strong></em></p> <p><em><strong>Image credits: Supplied</strong></em></p>

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