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With more lawsuits potentially looming, should politicians be allowed to sue for defamation?

<div class="theconversation-article-body"><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/brendan-clift-715691">Brendan Clift</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a></em></p> <p>Western Australia Senator Linda Reynolds is already <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/law/article/2024/aug/19/linda-reynolds-brittany-higgins-defamation-trial-fiona-brown-ntwnfb">embroiled</a> in a bruising defamation fight against her former staffer Brittany Higgins. Now, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is reportedly <a href="https://www.skynews.com.au/australia-news/politics/peter-dutton-to-seek-legal-advice-after-zali-steggall-called-him-racist/video/9ce7c850f30fb1bd324831f2ec2f21b5">considering suing</a> independent MP Zali Steggall after <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/steggall-brands-dutton-a-bully-amid-spectre-of-legal-action-20240819-p5k3ez.html">she told him</a> to “stop being racist”.</p> <p>It has become impossible to miss the fact that our political class – including some who invoke freedom of speech while disparaging others – is remarkably keen on defamation litigation in response to actual or perceived slights.</p> <p>It’s rarely a good look when the powerful sue the less powerful. It is an especially bad look for a democracy when politicians, who enjoy not just power but privileged access to communication platforms, pursue legal avenues likely to bankrupt all but the best-resourced defendants.</p> <h2>The freedom to speak one’s mind</h2> <p><a href="https://pages.eiu.com/rs/753-RIQ-438/images/Democracy-Index-2023-Final-report.pdf">Flawed democracies</a> such as Singapore are rightly <a href="https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-99-5467-4_4">condemned</a> for leveraging defamation law and compliant courts against political dissent.</p> <p>While Australia’s situation is less problematic, our defamation laws historically favour reputation over freedom of speech.</p> <p>An oft-cited case in contrast is the United States, where politicians and other public figures can succeed in defamation only if they prove the publisher knew they were communicating a falsehood, or were reckless (careless to a very high degree) as to the truth.</p> <p>Statements of opinion – for instance, that Donald Trump is racist – are practically never in violation of the law. In the words of the <a href="https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/314/252/">US Supreme Court</a>:</p> <blockquote> <p>it is a prized American privilege to speak one’s mind, although not always with perfect good taste, on all public institutions.</p> </blockquote> <p>The US approach is based on the <a href="https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/274/357/">classical liberal idea</a> that “the fitting remedy for evil counsels is good ones”: speech should generally be free, and public debate in the marketplace of ideas will sort out right and wrong.</p> <h2>Putting conditions on free speech</h2> <p>The argument for free speech without guardrails may be losing traction in a post-truth world. Many modern audiences, willingly or not, occupy echo chambers and filter bubbles in which biases are reinforced rather than challenged.</p> <p>It is almost as if the High Court of Australia foresaw this in <a href="https://www8.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/cases/cth/HCA/1997/25.html">a 1997 defamation case</a> where it held that Australia’s Constitution did not require total freedom of political communication. Reasonable limits were appropriate because widespread irresponsible political communication could damage the political fabric of the nation.</p> <p>Although the High Court reached its conclusion via <a href="https://www8.austlii.edu.au/cgi-bin/viewdoc/au/journals/SydLawRw/2005/2.html">textual interpretation</a> of the Constitution rather than deeper philosophical musings, the court’s position reflects modern preoccupations with how speech should be regulated in a democracy.</p> <p>But the political appetite for defamation litigation in this country suggests the law has not yet struck the right balance.</p> <h2>The point of defamation law</h2> <p><a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/business-owner-can-t-sue-over-one-star-google-review-judge-rules-20230124-p5cf05.html">Recent reforms</a> to defamation law have tried to eliminate frivolous lawsuits by introducing a threshold requirement of serious harm to reputation. A better approach may have been to presume that <em>all</em> defamation is trivial.</p> <p>Unlike other civil wrongs, which often result in physical injury or property damage, defamation’s effect on a person’s reputation is intangible.</p> <p>Unfairly tarnished reputations can usually be repaired by a public apology and correction, perhaps aided by nominal compensation for hurt feelings and to deter further defamation.</p> <p>It is therefore a mystery why courts and legislatures have allowed defamation proceedings to become some of the most complex and expensive civil claims around, and why damages are <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-48379980">so large</a>.</p> <p>A high-profile case can easily generate <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2024/apr/24/bruce-lehrmann-defamation-trial-legal-costs-channel-10-brittany-higgins-rape-allegation-ntwnfb">millions of dollars</a> in legal costs on both sides, dwarfing the final award which might itself run to hundreds of thousands of dollars.</p> <p>Taiwan offers a useful contrast. There, although politicians can sue for defamation, proceedings are relatively simple and damages are <a href="https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2668444">much smaller</a> – one might say proportionate to the harm done.</p> <p>Under both approaches, the successful litigant, whether it be the publisher or the person whose reputation has suffered, is vindicated. Surely that is the point.</p> <p>Where only the wealthy can afford to assert their rights, and where vindication of reputation takes a back seat to airing grievances, punishing opponents and enriching lawyers, defamation law is in a state of dysfunction.</p> <h2>Should pollies sue?</h2> <p>It’s sometimes said that politicians should not be able to sue for defamation at all because they themselves can say what they like under the protection of <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/about_parliament/house_of_representatives/powers_practice_and_procedure/00_-_infosheets/infosheet_5_-_parliamentary_privilege#:%7E:text=What%20is%20parliamentary%20privilege%3F,the%20law%20of%20the%20Commonwealth.">parliamentary privilege</a>, immune from defamation and other speech laws.</p> <p>Parliamentarians do enjoy that protection, but its personal benefit is secondary. Parliamentary privilege, like courtroom privilege, exists because the nature of democratic (and judicial) deliberation requires that anything can be said.</p> <p>If a politician steps outside parliament and repeats a defamatory statement first made within its walls, they are vulnerable to being sued. <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-03/sarah-hanson-young-david-leyonhjelm-defamation-appeal/13210042">David Leyonhjelm</a> learned this the hard way, and <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/steggall-brands-dutton-a-bully-amid-spectre-of-legal-action-20240819-p5k3ez.html">Steggall</a> may, too.</p> <p>It’s reasonable that politicians should also have rights of action in defamation. But those rights must be constrained according to what is appropriate in a democratic society.</p> <p>A way to better align defamation law with democratic expectations may be to return cases to the state courts and reinstate juries to a prominent role. Currently, the <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/the-death-of-juries-and-the-rise-of-blockbuster-federal-court-defamation-trials-20240125-p5ezyv.html">overwhelming majority</a> of cases are brought in the Federal Court, where they are decided by a judge sitting alone.</p> <p>If a public figure claims their reputation has been tarnished in the eyes of the community, we should test that factual claim with members of that community under the legal guidance of a judge. That might make for a welcome injection of common sense.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/237026/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/brendan-clift-715691">Brendan Clift</a>, Lecturer in Law, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-melbourne-722">The University of Melbourne</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/with-more-lawsuits-potentially-looming-should-politicians-be-allowed-to-sue-for-defamation-237026">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

Legal

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Storytelling allows elders to transfer values and meaning to younger generations

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mary-ann-mccoll-704728">Mary Ann McColl</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queens-university-ontario-1154">Queen's University, Ontario</a></em></p> <p>If you spent time over the holidays with elderly relatives or friends, you may have heard many of the same stories repeated — perhaps stories you’d heard over the years, or even over the past few hours.</p> <p>Repeated storytelling can sometimes be unnerving for friends and families, raising concerns about a loved one’s potential cognitive decline, memory loss or perhaps even the onset of dementia.</p> <p><a href="https://tenstories.ca/">Our research</a> at Queen’s University suggests there is another way to think about repeated storytelling that makes it easier to listen and engage with the stories. We interviewed 20 middle-aged adults who felt they had heard the same stories over and over from their aging parent. We asked them to tell us those stories and we recorded and transcribed them.</p> <p>We used a <a href="https://doi.org/10.1108/14439881211248356">narrative inquiry approach</a> to discover that repeated storytelling is a key method for elders to communicate what they believe to be important to their children and loved ones. Narrative inquiry uses the text of stories as research data to explore how people create meaning in their lives.</p> <h2>Transmitting values</h2> <p>Based on nearly 200 collected stories, we found that there are approximately <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/scs.13121">10 stories</a> that older parents repeatedly tell to their adult children.</p> <p>The hypothesis was that repeated storytelling was about inter-generational transmission of values. By exploring the themes of those repeated stories, we could uncover the meaning and messages elders were communicating to their loved ones.</p> <p>The ultimate purpose was to offer a new and more constructive way of thinking about stories that we’ve heard many times before, and that can be otherwise perceived as alarming.</p> <h2>Here’s what we have learned:</h2> <ol> <li> <p>There are typically just 10 stories that people tell repeatedly. While 10 is not a magic number, it does seem to be about the right number to capture the stories that are told over and over. Interviewees felt that a set of approximately 10 allowed them to do justice to their parent’s stories.</p> </li> <li> <p>Among our interviewees, a significant number of their parents’ stories – 87 per cent — took place when they were in their teens or twenties. A person’s second and third decades are a time when they make many of the decisions that shape the rest of their lives; a time when values are consolidated and the <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/09658211.2013.863358">adult identity is formed</a></p> </li> <li> <p>What’s important about the 10 stories is not the factual details, but the lesson that was learned, or the value that was reinforced — values like loyalty toward friends, putting family first, maintaining a sense of humour even in hard times, getting an education, speaking up against injustice, and doing what’s right.</p> </li> <li> <p>Key themes in the stories reflected the significant events and prevailing values of the early to mid-20th century. Many of the stories revolved around the war, and both domestic and overseas experiences that were formative. Many of our interviewees heard stories about immigrating to Canada, starting out with very little, seeking a better life and working hard. Stories often reflected a more formal time when it was important to uphold standards, make a good impression, know one’s place and adhere to the rules.</p> </li> <li> <p>The stories elders tell appear to be curated for the individual receiving them. They would be different if told to another child, a spouse or a friend.</p> </li> </ol> <h2>Tips for listening</h2> <p>Our research offers some tips for listening to stories from elders:</p> <ul> <li> <p>Focus on just 10 stories. It can make the listening seem less overwhelming.</p> </li> <li> <p>Write them down. Writing challenges us to get the story straight.</p> </li> <li> <p>Notice your loved one’s role in the story, as the message is often contained in that role.</p> </li> <li> <p>Be attentive to feelings, sensations, tension and discomfort. These can be signals or clues to the meaning of a story.</p> </li> <li> <p>Finally, remember these stories are for you — selected and told in the context of your relationship with your loved one. As such, they are a gift from a loved one who is running out of time.</p> </li> </ul> <h2>The importance of receiving stories</h2> <p>Storytelling is an <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/cad.20067">essential human process</a> and a universal experience associated with aging. Neuroscientists suggest that storytelling has practical survival value for individuals and communities, <a href="https://www.jonathangottschall.com/storytelling-animal">as well as social and psychological benefits</a>.</p> <p>It may be as powerful as medication or therapy for <a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/gps.1018">overcoming depression among elders</a>. Storytelling becomes especially important <a href="https://doi.org/10.1080/13607863.2017.1396581">when people become aware of their mortality</a> — when they are ill, suffering or facing death.</p> <p>People don’t necessarily tell the same stories over and over again because they’re losing cognitive function, but because the stories are important, and they feel we need to know them. Telling stories repeatedly isn’t about forgetfulness or dementia. It’s an effort to share what’s important.</p> <p>Our hope is that by better understanding elderly storytelling, caregivers may be able to listen in a different way to those repeated stories and understand the messages they contain. Those 10 stories can help us to know our loved one at a deeper level and assist our parent or grandparent with an important developmental task of old age.</p> <p>This research offers a constructive way for caregivers to hear the repeated stories told by their aging parents, and to offer their loved one the gift of knowing they have been seen and heard.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/197766/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/mary-ann-mccoll-704728"><em>Mary Ann McColl</em></a><em>, Professor, School of Rehabilitation Therapy, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queens-university-ontario-1154">Queen's University, Ontario</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/storytelling-allows-elders-to-transfer-values-and-meaning-to-younger-generations-197766">original article</a>.</em></p>

Mind

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Carer allowance and disability pension set to increase

<p>Over 936,000 Aussies are set to see a cash boost in the new year, as indexation to government payments takes effect from January. </p> <p>Australians receiving youth, student or carer support will receive a 6 per cent boost to their payments, as additional support to help them navigate the rising cost of living. </p> <p>“Australia’s social security system is a safety net that is continually strengthened and improved to support all vulnerable Australians,” Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth said.</p> <p>“Through regular indexation, our payments are adjusted in line with changes in the cost of living to retain their purchasing power.”</p> <p>For over 600,000 carers, the Carer Allowance is set to increase to  $153.50 a fortnight, while the Disability Support Pension for Australians under 21 will increase by $31.10 to $44.90 a fortnight. </p> <p>Youth Allowance payments are also set to increase between $22.40 and $45.60 a fortnight, while Austudy payments will increase by between $36.20 and $45.60. </p> <p>The new year increases are being set into motion after a $40 a fortnight increase to youth and student payment rates, which was effective from September 20. </p> <p>A complete list of the new payment increases can be found on the <a href="https://www.dss.gov.au/about-the-department/benefits-payments/previous-indexation-rates" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Department of Social Services website</a>.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Money & Banking

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“How is this allowed?”: Natalie Barr unleashes on aged care

<p>Natalie Barr has demanded an explanation from care home operators after learning that a number of facilities across Sydney will be shut in a matter of weeks, forcing out hundreds of vulnerable residents. </p> <p>Her concern was for the people living in Wesley Mission’s aged care homes, with their future thrown into jeopardy with the company’s announcements that it would be closing all of its remaining city homes - with other operators expected to follow suit. </p> <p>And the <em>Sunrise</em> host cut right to the chase, asking “how on Earth has this been allowed to happen?” for the Sylvania, Carlingford, and Narrabeen properties. </p> <p>CEO and superintendent Reverend Stu Cameron has claimed that their decision was necessary because of challenges in meeting new national requirements for staffing, stating that it is “a challenging environment to be a smaller provider.</p> <p>“With just three aged care locations, our offering in this area is small compared to the large and diverse range of community services we provide around NSW and across Australia."</p> <p>As <em>Sunrise</em> correspondent Liam Tapper explained, the move was part of “major overhauls” set to happen the following month, and shared a statement from Wesley Mission. </p> <p>“The Aged Care sector is experiencing challenges to workforce and flow-on impacts from the national reforms to Aged Care,” it read. “Wesley Mission supports these once-in-a-generation reforms, improving quality for all care users.” </p> <p>Those “challenges” likely refer to the federal government’s target to have around-the-clock registered nurses in aged care homes by the beginning of July 2023, despite the aged care minister confessing that only one in 20 establishments would be able to satisfy this goal. </p> <p>And while the operator might support the changes, they noted that they remain “in a challenging environment” and intend to do all they can to assist residents in finding new homes. </p> <p>Tapper noted that Wesley Mission had a legal obligation to help, but that the situation remained “destination unknown” for those impacted by the closures. </p> <p>“The families of these people must be in absolute shock,” Natalie declared, upon learning that the Department of Health and Aged Care had not been made aware of the closures. </p> <p>The department did, however, assure residents that they would not be “required to move until suitable accommodation” was found. </p> <p>“If you have any family member, a parent, a grandparent, anyone you know who has tried to get into an aged care facility in this country, it is so hard on a good day,” she went on, before noting that this meant “so many families [were being] left in the lurch.” </p> <p><em>Images: Sunrise / Seven</em></p>

Caring

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Major boost to pension and allowance just days away

<p>The federal government has announced big changes to government allowance, with nearly 5 million Aussies set to benefit from an increase to their pension payments. Read more:</p> <p>Almost 5 million Aussies will receive a major increase to their pension payments as they are indexed to inflation.</p> <p>Recipients of the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension and Carer Payment can expect an increase of $37.50 a fortnight for singles and $56.40 a fortnight for couples combined.</p> <p>The maximum fortnightly rate of the pension is set to increase to $1,064 for singles and $1,604 for couples,  including the pension and energy supplements.</p> <p>Single, childless JobSeeker and ABSTUDY recipients over 22 will receive an extra $24.70 per fortnight.</p> <p>Each half of a couple receiving payments will receive a $22.50 increase per fortnight.</p> <p>Single parents receiving the parenting payment will benefit from an extra $33.90 a fortnight.</p> <p>Single parents on the parenting payment will also receive an additional $33.90 per fortnight, with the rate increasing to $967.90, including the Pension Supplement, Energy Supplement, and Pharmaceutical Allowance.</p> <p>Single, childless recipients of the maximum rate Common Rent Assistance will see an increase of $5.60, receiving $157.20 per fortnight.</p> <p>People who receive the maximum rate and have one or two children will see an increase of $6.58 to $184.94 per fortnight, while those with three or more children will receive an increase of $7.42 to $208.74 per fortnight.</p> <p>According to the federal government, the indexation of social security payments will bring cost-of-living relief for 4.7 million people.</p> <p>Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said the government was supporting Australians most in need.</p> <p>"Australia's social security system exists to support our most vulnerable citizens, and we know they are feeling the pinch," she said.</p> <p>"Indexation is a pillar of our social security system and we want more money in the pockets of everyday Australians so they can better afford essentials.</p> <p>"The increase is an important part of the system and helps those doing it toughest.”</p> <p>The indexation of payments begins on March 20.</p> <p><em>Image credit: Getty</em></p>

Money & Banking

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The 4 beauty rules you’re allowed to break

<p>The world of beauty can be filled with tightly honoured rules and regulations. The problem is, half of these so called “non-negotiables” are actually a little bit of nonsense. Here are four beauty rules you can safely say sayonara to right now.</p> <ol> <li><strong>Avoid applying make-up with your fingers</strong> – While grubby fingers are always going to be a no no, clean fingers can be the perfect tools for applying your makeup. This is especially true for products like tinted moisturiser or cream blush. If you prefer using your fingers, look for products with an air proof  “nozzle” that “squirts” product onto your fingers/face and prevents the need to stick your fingers into a pot or tube. You’ll spread far less bacteria this way.</li> <li><strong>Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks</strong> – While this works for some people, others don’t flush naturally at the apple and hence, look a bit strange. The best place to apply blush is wherever you naturally flush. Try slightly below the apples and around for a light ‘sweep’ of colour.</li> <li><strong>Coloured eye shadowis only for teenagers</strong> – While glittery, fluro shades may be best left to the under 20 crowd, shades like navy, khaki, bronze and even a deep purple look fantastic on women of all ages. It’s all about finding a shade that suits your eye colour and that you feel comfortable in.</li> <li><strong>Always line your lips with lip liner</strong> – Nothing ages a face more than a heavily defined lip line with slightly worn out lip colour beneath. Lip liner, while useful for some occasions, doesn’t need to be an everyday essential. Try applying your chosen lip colour, blotting, then applying another coat for long lasting colour. If you really can’t part with your liner, try finding a shade that matches your natural lip colour. Use it to outline and colour in your lips then apply your lippie over the top.</li> </ol> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

Beauty & Style

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The one person Elon Musk won't allow back on Twitter

<p>Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones will not be making a return to Twitter and will remain banned from the platform, according to new owner Elon Musk.</p> <p>The declaration was made on Friday that Jones’ account will not be restored, regardless of requests. Elon then spent the weekend defending the decision, even after restoring multiple other suspended accounts including former US president Donald Trump.</p> <p>"No," Musk tweeted flatly in response to one user's call for Jones to be reinstated on Twitter.</p> <p>Musk elaborated on his decision, citing Bible scripture and his own personal experience with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome to explain his opposition to Jones.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven</p> <p>— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1594529035622965248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p>Alex Jones was ordered to pay hundreds of millions of dollars in damages for spreading lies and misinformation about the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.</p> <p>"My firstborn child died in my arms. I felt his last heartbeat," Musk tweeted.</p> <p>"I have no mercy for anyone who would use the deaths of children for gain, politics or fame."</p> <p>The announcement prompted a flood of replies. Some Twitter users commended Musk for continuing to deny Jones a platform while others, including some of Jones' own self-professed supporters, said it showed Musk's inconsistent and arbitrary support for free speech.</p> <p>In a response video Jones posted Friday to alternative video site Rumble, he said he didn't care if he was allowed back on Twitter, and listed various other platforms where his content remains accessible.</p> <p>"Don't blame Musk at the end of the day because he didn't bring me back," Jones urged his followers.</p> <p>"I'm the most controversial figure in the world because I'm the most threatening to the new world order.</p> <p>"So don't expect him to bring me back on day one."</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

Technology

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The downside of digital transformation: why organisations must allow for those who can’t or won’t move online

<p>We hear the phrase “digital transformation” a lot these days. It’s often used to describe the process of replacing functions and services that were once done face-to-face by human beings with online interactions that are faster, more convenient and <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/%7E/media/mckinsey/industries/public%20and%20social%20sector/our%20insights/transforming%20government%20through%20digitization/digital-by-default-a-guide-to-transforming-government-final.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">“empower” the user</a>.</p> <p>But does digital transformation really deliver on those promises? Or does the seemingly relentless digitalisation of life actually reinforce existing social divides and inequities?</p> <p>Take banking, for example. Where customers once made transactions with tellers at local branches, now they’re encouraged to do it all online. As branches close it leaves many, <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/business/123302983/asb-set-to-close-another-23-branches-as-customers-move-online" target="_blank" rel="noopener">especially older people</a>, struggling with what was once an easy, everyday task.</p> <p>Or consider the now common call centre experience involving an electronic voice, menu options, <a href="https://theconversation.com/sorry-i-dont-understand-that-the-trouble-with-chatbots-and-how-to-use-them-better-171665" target="_blank" rel="noopener">chatbots</a> and a “user journey” aimed at pushing customers online.</p> <p>As organisations and government agencies in Aotearoa New Zealand and elsewhere grapple with the call to become more “digital”, we have been examining the consequences for those who find the process difficult or marginalising.</p> <p>Since 2021 we’ve been working with the <a href="https://www.cab.org.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Citizens Advice Bureau</a> (CAB) and talking with public and private sector organisations that use digital channels to deliver services. Our findings suggest there is much still to be done to find the right balance between the digital and non-digital.</p> <p><strong>The ‘problematic’ non-user</strong></p> <p>The dominant view now suggests the pursuit of a digitally enabled society will allow everyone to lead a “frictionless” life. As the government’s own policy document, <a href="https://www.digital.govt.nz/dmsdocument/193%7Etowards-a-digital-strategy-for-aotearoa/html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Towards a Digital Strategy for Aotearoa</a>, states:</p> <blockquote> <p>Digital tools and services can enable us to learn new skills, transact with ease, and to receive health and well-being support at a time that suits us and without the need to travel from our homes.</p> </blockquote> <p>Of course, we’re already experiencing this new world. Many public and private services increasingly are available digitally <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/public-leaders-network/2014/jan/07/new-zealand-uk-digital-revolution" target="_blank" rel="noopener">by default</a>. Non-digital alternatives are becoming restricted or even disappearing.</p> <p>There are two underlying assumptions to the view that everyone can or should interact digitally.</p> <p>First, it implies that those who can’t access digital services (or prefer non-digital options) are problematic or deficient in some way – and that this can be overcome simply through greater provision of technology, training or “nudging” non-users to get on board.</p> <p>Second, it assumes digital inclusion – through increasing the provision of digital services – will automatically increase social inclusion.</p> <p>Neither assumption is necessarily true.</p> <p><strong>‘Digital enforcement’</strong></p> <p>The CAB (which has mainly face-to-face branches throughout New Zealand) has documented a significant increase in the number of people who struggle to access government services because the digital channel was the default or only option.</p> <p>The bureau argues that <a href="https://inclusioncampaign.cab.org.nz/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">access to public services is a human right</a> and, by implication, the move to digital public services that aren’t universally accessible deprives some people of that right.</p> <p>In earlier research, we refer to this form of deprivation as “<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/isj.12306" target="_blank" rel="noopener">digital enforcement</a>” – defined as a process of dispossession that reduces choices for individuals.</p> <p>Through our current research we find the reality of a digitally enabled society is, in fact, far from perfect and frictionless. Our preliminary findings point to the need to better understand the outcomes of digital transformation at a more nuanced, individual level.</p> <p>Reasons vary as to why a significant number of people find accessing and navigating online services difficult. And it’s often an intersection of multiple causes related to finance, education, culture, language, trust or well-being.</p> <p>Even when given access to digital technology and skills, the complexity of many online requirements and the chaotic life situations some people experience limit their ability to engage with digital services in a productive and meaningful way.</p> <p><strong>The human factor</strong></p> <p>The resulting sense of disenfranchisement and loss of control is regrettable, but it isn’t inevitable. Some organisations are now looking for alternatives to a single-minded focus on transferring services online.</p> <p>They’re not completely removing call centre or client support staff, but instead using digital technology to improve <a href="https://deloitte.wsj.com/articles/at-contact-energy-digital-powers-human-centric-cx-01643821371" target="_blank" rel="noopener">human-centred service delivery</a>.</p> <p>Other organisations are considering partnerships with intermediaries who can work with individuals who find engaging with digital services difficult. The Ministry of Health, for example, is supporting a community-based Māori health and social services provider to establish a <a href="https://www.health.govt.nz/our-work/digital-health/digital-enablement/digital-enablement-stories/digital-health-hub-supports-taranaki-whanau-access-services-closer-home" target="_blank" rel="noopener">digital health hub</a> to improve local access to health care.</p> <p>Our research is continuing, but we can already see evidence – from the CAB itself and other large organisations – of the benefits of moving away from an uncritical focus on digital transformation.</p> <p>By doing so, the goal is to move beyond a divide between those who are digitally included and excluded, and instead to encourage social inclusion in the digital age. That way, organisations can still move forward technologically – but not at the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jun/23/the-guardian-view-on-digital-exclusion-online-must-not-be-the-only-option">expense of the humans</a> they serve.<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/186905/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/angsana-a-techatassanasoontorn-1292067" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Angsana A. Techatassanasoontorn</a>, Associate Professor of Information Systems, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/auckland-university-of-technology-1137" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Auckland University of Technology</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/antonio-diaz-andrade-1361842" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Antonio Diaz Andrade</a>, Professor of Business Information Systems, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/auckland-university-of-technology-1137" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Auckland University of Technology</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/bill-doolin-1361879" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Bill Doolin</a>, Professor of Technology and Organisation, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/auckland-university-of-technology-1137" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Auckland University of Technology</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/harminder-singh-1361833" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Harminder Singh</a>, Associate Professor of Business Information Systems, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/auckland-university-of-technology-1137" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Auckland University of Technology</a></em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-downside-of-digital-transformation-why-organisations-must-allow-for-those-who-cant-or-wont-move-online-186905" target="_blank" rel="noopener">original article</a>.</em></p> <p><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Technology

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Furore erupts after RSL member refuses to allow Indigenous flag at ANZAC service

<p dir="ltr">A NSW woman had the police called on her after she attempted to drape an Indigenous flag honouring First Nations diggers at her local war memorial service in Lismore.</p> <p dir="ltr">Cindy Roberts tried to display her flag beneath the Australian flag before the service began, but a local RSL member allegedly stopped her twice and called the police, according to the <em><a href="https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-10753649/Anzac-Day-2022-fury-memorial-service-hit-row-Indigenous-flag.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Daily Mail</a></em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">The incident has sparked outrage among those in attendance and online, with former Lismore mayor Jenny Dowell describing it as a “huge overreaction”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It wasn’t a huge protest in any way and was absolutely done respectfully,” she said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“It was embarrassing and awkward and it should have just been allowed to pass without the fuss from the RSL member.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Roberts, whose daughter, grandparents and uncles have served in Australia’s armed forces, had taken part in the dawn service and the march to Lismore Memorial Baths for the ceremony.</p> <p dir="ltr">When she arrived, the only flag flying was the Australian flag, despite other venues displaying the Aboriginal, Australian, and Torres Strait Islander flags side by side.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I just wanted to remember my ancestors that had fought in every single war, including the frontier war,” she told <em>Daily Mail Australia</em>.</p> <p dir="ltr">“So I stood and I felt a spirit in my heart tell me to just lay the flag out. I didn’t put it on the flagpole, I just placed it on the ground underneath the Australian flag.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Then I was approached by a member from the RSL and asked to remove the flag.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I said, ‘But my grandfathers and my uncles and my ancestors fought in the wars of this country’. He said, ‘This is not the time or the place’.”</p> <p dir="ltr">“I thought, ‘Well, when is the time to bring unity?’”</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Roberts said she then picked the flag up and went to the spot where the wreaths were laid, where she was confronted again.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Then (the RSL member) approached me again and told me to remove the flag again and with the police this time,” she continued.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When this happened, I cried. I broke down and everyone saw me but I still stood there in the crowd behind the children with the Aboriginal flag.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Robert’s daughter Skye, who served as a ship technician in the Australian Navy for five years, was with her mother when the incident occurred.</p> <p dir="ltr">Celebrated Indigenous soldier Clarrie Combo, who fought for Australia in Egypt, Libya, Crete, Syria, Greece, Sri Lanka and New Guinea during WWII, was one of Ms Roberts’ great uncles.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Our people have been through so much and I’m tired of them not being acknowledged,” Ms Roberts said.</p> <p dir="ltr">“First Nations people who fought in these wars deserve more respect because they put their lives on the line.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Ms Dowell said she tried to reason with the RSL member and that she couldn’t understand why they were treating Ms Roberts.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I saw the reaction from a member of the RSL who was saying repeatedly, it’s not appropriate, it’s not appropriate,” she told the publication.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I didn’t quite know what was not appropriate. I thought it was very disappointing - and not one speaker in the whole ceremony even acknowledged country.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I thought that was poor. The situation could have easily have escalated if Cindy had chosen to do so but she didn’t and many there may not have even noticed.</p> <p dir="ltr">“I thought she was very respectful and hopefully we can all learn from this incident - and that it doesn’t happen again.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The incident caused intense debate in the town’s Facebook group, with many supporting Ms Roberts.</p> <p dir="ltr">“To the beautiful Indigenous woman advocating to raise the Indigenous flag today at the service following the march, I am beyond apologetic for the utter disrespect you were shown,” one local wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">Others insisted that the Australian flag should cover everyone since soldiers all fought under it in wartime.</p> <p dir="ltr">“They fought under the Australian flag. We are all Australians,” one person said.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-596180ea-7fff-cebf-ca7d-1e543ffdf614"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Daily Mail</em></p>

Caring

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Djokovic allowed to play Wimbledon despite remaining unvaxxed

<p>Novak Djokovic will be allowed to defend his title at Wimbledon despite not being vaccinated against COVID-19.</p> <p>All England Club chief executive Sally Bolton gave Djokovic the all clear on Tuesday, as vaccinations are not required to enter Britain.</p> <p>World No.1 Djokovic, missed the Australian Open in January after being deported because he was not vaccinated against Covid-19.</p> <p>During the annual spring briefing ahead of Wimbledon, which starts on June the 27th, Bolton said “whilst, of course, it is encouraged [that all players get vaccinated], it will not be a condition of entry to compete” this year.</p> <p>The 34-year-old, in addition to being unable to defend his championship at Melbourne Park after an 11-day legal saga over whether he could remain in Australia, had to sit out tournaments at Indian Wells and Miami because he couldn’t travel to the United States as a foreigner who is unvaccinated.</p> <p>The US Tennis Association has said it will follow whatever governmental rules are in place regarding COVID-19 vaccination status when the US Open is held starting in late August.</p> <p>Djokovic has said he got COVID-19 twice, once in 2020 and again in 2021. The tennis legend is tied at 20 with Roger Federer for the second-most grand slams for a man. They trail Rafael Nadal, who won his 21st at the Australian Open.</p> <p>After what happened in Australia, Djokovic said he would be willing to sit out other grand slam tournaments if getting vaccinated was a requirement to compete.</p> <p><em>Image: Getty</em></p>

News

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Readers respond: What are some things your grandkids aren’t allowed to do?

<p dir="ltr">Having the grandkids come round to visit can be such a joy and the perfect way to create some sweet memories with them. </p> <p dir="ltr">As much as it’s a chance to spoil them, there are some things grandkids can’t get away with.</p> <p dir="ltr">From trampolining off the furniture to improper manners, when we asked our readers what they wouldn’t allow their grandkids to do, this is what you had to say.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Shena Wood</strong> - All my grandkids are so good when they come. Only one real rule and that is we eat at the table.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Shirley Gaye Howearth</strong> - Nothing, they are allowed to do whatever pleases them.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Jill Edwards</strong> - No tech while eating! This is for all meals, (whether) at the table or on the couch.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Joy Scott</strong> - Sit at table to eat and little ones wipe hands before leaving. Saves a lot of work.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Dalena Lee</strong> - Jump on the couch. I tell them that when they see me jump on the couch, then they can.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Jan Bradley</strong> - Table manners, respect, no jumping or climbing on furniture! Aside from that I don’t have any rules, just love spending time with them.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Helen Vella</strong> - My kids weren’t allowed to do anything, my grandkids can do whatever they want.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Jennifer Slack-Smith</strong> - I say ‘Whatever happens at Nanny’s stays at Nanny’s.’</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Heather Cassey</strong> - Torment the cat, disrespect me, or anything that will hurt them. Other than that they pretty much have me twisted around their little fingers.</p> <p dir="ltr"><strong>Douglas Jones</strong> - I always send my grandchildren home with a tube of glitter.</p> <p dir="ltr">To read what else you said, head <a href="https://www.facebook.com/oversixtys/posts/3315334072030189" target="_blank" rel="noopener">here</a>.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-d7830072-7fff-1194-1c28-11449432a806"></span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Getty Images</em></p>

Caring

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Prince Harry will not be allowed to wear his military uniform at armed forces gala

<p dir="ltr">Prince Harry will not wear his military uniform when he appears at the Salute to Freedom gala on Wednesday, despite serving in the military for 10 years.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Duke of Sussex, whose service included two tours in Afghanistan in 2008 and 2012, is set to appear at the gala in New York to award five war heroes with medals. However, he will not be allowed to wear his military uniform, because he has been stripped of his honorary titles.</p> <p dir="ltr">Harry lost his titles after he and wife Meghan Markle resigned as senior royals in March 2020. It is understood that Harry wanted to retain his honorary positions, including the title of Captain General of the Royal Marines, but was not able to do so. It is thought that Princess Anne will be the next royal to hold that title, making her the first woman to do so.</p> <p dir="ltr">The 37-year-old second son of Princess Diana was appointed to the position of Captain General of the Royal Marines in 2017. Prior to his appointment, the position had been held by his grandfather, Prince Phiilip, for 64 years.</p> <p dir="ltr">As a result of losing his titles, Harry will wear plain clothes when he presents awards at the gala, which is to be held aboard a warship in New York on Wednesday November 10. Despite this, he will be allowed to pin his four medals to his suit for the occasion.</p> <p dir="ltr">The Salute to Freedom gala is being held to honour "those who have served in the US forces, defending America." Award recipients are those who have "demonstrated courage and perseverance in the face of great danger or personal struggle."</p> <p dir="ltr">The event will be held at the Intrepid Sea, Air &amp; Space Museum, and other attendees include Jon Bon Jovi, who will be receiving the 2021 Intrepid Lifetime Achievement Award for his work with the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation. The Foundation works to break the cycle of poverty and homelessness through affordable shelter and housing, including providing permanent supportive housing for veterans.</p> <p dir="ltr">Bon Jovi and Harry have crossed paths before, when Bon Jovi recorded ‘Unbroken’ as a single for Harry’s Invictus Games Foundation last year.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Geoff Pugh - WPA Pool/Getty Images</em></p>

News

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"He's not allowed": Why Kyle has banned Perrottet from coming on the show

<p>Just hours after Dominic Perrottet landed the top job of NSW premier, radio host Kyle Sandilands banned him from the KIIS FM show. </p> <p>While Kyle and co-host Jackie O were speaking with a celebrity psychic live on air, Kyle made the bold claims about the new premier. </p> <p>The trio were discussing widespread concerns about the premier's conservative views, with psychic Georgina Walker calling him a "strong leader", before predicting it is unlikely he will be popular within the state. </p> <p>During the segment, Kyle announced he didn't like Perrottet's "vibe".</p> <p><span>“Oh this guy’s gotta go, he’s never allowed on the show guys, just so you know,” he told listeners.</span></p> <p>“He’s not allowed, I don’t want that rubbish.”</p> <p>Ms Walker said the new Premier would “reform quite hard”.</p> <p>“I do tend to think his own personal ideology could see some significant changes in the laws to come,” she told the radio hosts.</p> <p>“I think he will be a really good leader, but I think he will ruffle a lot of feathers in regard to his strong religious belief centres."</p> <p>“He’s not into gay marriage (and) he doesn’t believe in abortion.”</p> <p>“What do you get when you look at that man’s photo?” Sandilands asked Ms Walker.</p> <p>Georgina said he would be a strong leader and would not be “soft” or as “supportive” as Gladys Berejiklian when it came to certain social issues.</p> <p>“If you look at things that Gladys was soft on or was supportive (of), you’re not going to get that from him,” Ms Walker said.</p> <p>“It’s going to be tough when he’s made up his mind. But I do tend to think there’s no other person who can do what he needs to do, but he won’t be that popular.”</p> <p>Georgina Walker also made some surprising predictions about the future of Gladys Berejiklian. </p> <p><span>“I think she’ll get out of it (ICAC investigation) and I think she will go into federal politics.”</span></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p>

News

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The great car parking debate: is this allowed?

<p>A woman dubbed "Parking Karen" prevented a teenage driver in Queensland from parking by standing in an empty spot with a dog because she was holding the space for her husband.</p> <p>Taking to TikTok to post footage of the incident, Marli McLaren from Mooloolaba wrote: “Anyone else dealt with a Karen before? (She) tried to reserve a park by standing in it HAHA.”</p> <p>The video, which was posted on Wednesday, shows the woman in standing with her dog on a leash in the middle of a parking spot.</p> <p>“Please move,” the teenager can be heard saying to the woman, who initially ignores her and waves her husband’s car over.</p> <p>“I’m not moving, I’m sorry, you can’t do that,” the teenager says.</p> <p>Instead, the woman walks over and says, “is there any reason why you’re filming me?”</p> <p>“Because you can’t do that,” the teenager responds.</p> <p>The woman then says she is going to call the police.</p> <p>The video went viral, accumulating over 1000 comments and 60,000 views.</p> <p>“The dog would be so embarrassed,” one person wrote.</p> <p>“Nothing says ‘I lost the battle’ quite like calling the police over nothing,” another said.</p> <p>“OMG even at Mooloolaba! There’s so many Karens on the coast, it’s deadly,” a third joked.</p> <p>But some didn't have an issue with the woman claiming the space.</p> <p>“I would have just let her have it, some battles aren’t worth fighting,” one person wrote.</p> <p>Others branded the teenager as a "Karen" for not allowing the woman to take the spot.</p> <p>But some users couldn't believe people were defending "Parking Karen" and attacking the teenager.</p> <p>“It’s called a car park, meaning u get your car and park there - not a human park,” one observed.</p> <p>McLaren posted a follow-up video to explain what happened afterward.</p> <p>The woman didn't end up calling the police and ended up moving because her husband found another parking spot - but not before calling the teenager "immature" for recording her.</p> <p>“You handled it very well! That woman made my blood boil,” one person wrote.</p> <p>“Awesome work for holding your ground, these people are annoying,” another said.</p> <p>“How are you so much more mature than that lady holding the spot?” a third person asked.</p> <p>“Our future has a chance!”</p>

Legal

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Dying dad allowed to see children across Qld border – but at a hefty cost

<p>A dying dad will be able to say his last goodbye to four young children after Aussies rallied together to fund their huge mandatory quarantine bill.</p> <p>The NSW-based family of Queensland father Mark Keans was granted permission to cross the border to visit him on Thursday, but told they must fork out $16,000 for transport and quarantine.</p> <p>Mr Keans is suffering from cancer and doctors are saying it is unlikely he’ll live beyond Christmas.</p> <p>The Queensland government has agreed to allow all the children to cross the border is a case that caused national outrage.</p> <p>But this was only allowed on one condition - that they spend two weeks in hotel quarantine at their own expense.</p> <p>They would also need to wear full personal protective equipment when visiting Mark.</p> <p>A GoFundMe page was set up in the hopes it would raise $30,000, but it was paused after surpassing $200,000.</p> <p>Prime Minister Scott Morrison also chipped in, donating $1,000.</p> <p>“Honestly cannot thank everyone enough for all the generous donations,” the organiser of the fundraiser wrote.</p> <p>“Mark’s family are so very appreciative and this will take the financial burden off of their shoulders so now they focus solely on Mark.</p> <p>“Thank you again everyone.”</p> <p>Queensland Health has defended its controversial decision.</p> <p>“We are in the midst of a global pandemic and we need to protect our communities, especially the most vulnerable members,” it said in a statement.</p> <p>“We understand the health directions in place are strict, but they are designed to protect Queenslanders.”</p> <p>Mr Keans father Bruce Langborne told Sunrise the family was incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support.</p> <p>“I can’t believe what’s happened, it’s unbelievable,” he said.</p>

News

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COVID travel: Why some people are allowed to leave the country

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> <p>Thousands of Aussies are seeking travel exemptions to travel overseas. Under the current federal government travel ban, Australian citizens and permanent residents are able to leave the country for six reasons.</p> <p>The six reasons that Australians and permanent residents are able to leave the country are:</p> <ul> <li>Travel is part of the response to the COVID-19 outbreak</li> <li>Travel is essential for the conduct of critical industries and business</li> <li>To receive urgent medical treatment not available in Australia</li> <li>Urgent and unavoidable personal business</li> <li>Compassionate or humanitarian grounds</li> <li>Travel in the national interest</li> </ul> <p>One Australian couple flew back to the UK as they have work visas until January.</p> <p>They're among the 6,451 people who have been granted travel exemptions by Border Force officials in the last two weeks, with a total of 40,830 exemptions given since the beginning of March.</p> <p>The Ratu couple first moved to London in January 2019 and had a plan to fly back to the UK in April this year, which was hindered due to COVID-19.</p> <p>"We are excited," Mr Ratu said. "It seems that most of Europe is open for business and the UK is starting to get back to normal."</p> <p>Their Border Force exemption was granted in just two hours.</p> <p>"We found the approval process pretty straightforward and easy to navigate. As long as you have the correct documentation and evidence of moving overseas for an extended period of time, you get the exemption," Mr Ratu said.</p> <p>"Our families are supportive and excited for our move overseas but also a little anxious about the current situation overseas with the pandemic and Brexit," he said.</p> <p>A Border Force spokesperson said the top three categories with the most applications are: compassionate or humanitarian grounds; urgent and unavoidable personal business; and conduct of critical industries and business, including exports and imports.</p> </div> </div> </div>

International Travel

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"Absolutely livid": Mayor furious as 400 allowed to gather at Sydney mosque

<p>A decision made by NSW Health has been slammed by local officials who claim that they weren't told about the latest exemptions as 400 worshippers gathered at a mosque to celebrate EID.</p> <p>Current COVID-19 social distancing restrictions in NSW prevent more than 100 people from gathering in places of worship, but NSW Health gave permission for four times that number to attend the Auburn Gallipoli Mosque in western Sydney on Friday for Eid al-Adha prayers, which is a major religious event.</p> <p>The worshippers that attended wore masks but Cumberland City Council Mayor Steve Christou said that he was "absolutely livid" about the government's decision to allow the event.</p> <p>"This kind of behaviour from the state is inexcusable and I am absolutely livid that they would potentially jeopardise the health and wellbeing of our residents and the health of greater Sydney residents," he told<a rel="noopener" href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/parramatta/coronavirus-nsw-auburn-mosque-cumberland-mayor-slams-decision-to-allow-400-worshippers/news-story/611f46da61d8f68c51138cb71d11fbe5" target="_blank" class="_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtflink"> The Daily Telegraph</a>.</p> <p>"We either have a pandemic, which we acknowledge and adhere to the relevant health directives for one and all, or we don’t."</p> <p>Attendees had to sign in and were split into four zones, which included two levels of the mosque, a function hall and a car park.</p> <p>Up to 100 people were allowed inside and attendees also wore stickers to designate the zone to which they'd been assigned. </p> <p>Mayor Christou claimed he found out about the decision through media and said that he would have opposed the exemption had he known about it.</p> <p>"I don’t understand how NSW Health can pick and choose who is at risk and who warrants an exemption," he said.</p> <p>NSW Health said in a statement that the mosque developed a "comprehensive safety plan" and that the government body was on site on the day to ensure procedures were being followed.</p> <p>The mosque's president Abdurrahman Asaroglu had said previously the venue had implemented appropriate measures to reduce the risk of a coronavirus outbreak.</p> <p>"Our community is really understanding and they are OK to follow these measures — no shaking hands, no hugging — making sure that they just pray," Dr Asaroglu told <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-07-31/auburn-mosque-granted-coronavirus-exemption-for-eid-al-adha/12508358" target="_blank" class="_e75a791d-denali-editor-page-rtflink">ABC</a>.</p> <p>"If everyone does the right thing I don't think there will be any issues."</p>

News

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Dannii Minogue allowed to skip hotel quarantine

<p><span>Danny Minogue has returned to Australia after travelling from the United States, however she will not be placed under the government’s strict mandatory 14-day hotel stay.</span><br /><br /><span>The pop star and her son have been granted an exemption by the Queensland government on medical grounds.</span><br /><br /><span>Instead of being forced to remain in the confines of a hotel, the two will spend 14 days at their Gold Coast private residence.</span><br /><br /><span>Minogue returned from the COVID-19 hotspot the United States over the weekend and headed straight to her Gold Coast property.</span><br /><br /><span>Minogue is still under the same strict hotel quarantine measures in her home, as no one is allowed to come and go from the property.</span><br /><br /><span>Unlike many other Australians who are returning from overseas, Minogue will not foot the mandatory $2800 bill for hotel accommodation each returning adult has to pay under current Queensland quarantine laws.</span><br /><br /><span>Millions of dollars has gone towards paying for thousands of travellers who have returned to Australia to quarantine in hotels since March.</span><br /><br /><span>On Monday night; the Queensland government said they could not comment on Minogue’s case.</span><br /><br /><span>“While we cannot comment on individuals, Queensland Health has strong arrangements in place whether people are quarantining inside or outside hotels,’’ a spokesperson told 7NEWS.</span></p>

Domestic Travel

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NSW to allow regional holidays starting from next month

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text "> <p>New South Wales residents are excitedly planning their next regional trip after NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian confirmed that residents are able to travel regionally for holidays.</p> <p>She also confirmed that pubs, clubs, restaurants and cafes are going to be set up to host up to 20 people.</p> <p>“Absolutely,” the Premier said when asked if the number would double within a month.</p> <p>“That’s definitely on the cards. We’re looking forward to continuing to have those conversations with industry and the health experts but we’re also really pleased, can I say, the way in which the community has respected the restrictions.”</p> <p>However, she’s urging residents to take caution.</p> <p>“But please know it won’t be a holiday like before,” Ms Berejiklian said.</p> <p>“We still have to exercise social distancing. We have to book ahead. Please make sure you plan ahead.</p> <p>“Book as many things as possible online and call ahead to the place you’re visiting to see what’s available and what options you have.</p> <p>“Even though restrictions are being eased, the message is that the virus isn’t any less deadly or contagious, it just means we have to live with it.”</p> <p>Not every state is on board with the move, including Tasmania.</p> <p>Tasmania Premier Peter Gutwein has said it’s too early to set a date for when their borders will come down.</p> <p>“If we can continue to follow those rules … I expect that in July we will be able to set a date for when our borders will come down. To set a date now … would not be common sense,” Mr Gutwein said on Tuesday.</p> <p>Federal Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham, despite Tasmania’s concerns, is urging state and territory governments to reopen their borders to domestic holiday takers when it’s safe.</p> <p>“Those states who’ve got border controls in place, assuming we’ve continued to see very low rates of transmission of COVID-19, ought to be looking at opening up their borders,” he told <em>Nine</em> on Tuesday.</p> </div> </div> </div>

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Coronavirus: Larger gatherings could be allowed from Friday

<p>The government’s coronavirus restrictions could be eased as early as this week, as Prime Minister Scott Morrison is reportedly set to greenlight gatherings of up to 10 people in a home.</p> <p>Morrison is expected to announce changes to restrictions following a scheduled meeting with national cabinet on Friday, <em><a href="https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/health-wellbeing/coronavirus-australia-gatherings-of-larger-people-could-be-allowed-as-restrictions-are-set-to-ease-c-1021249">7News</a> </em>reported.</p> <p>While individual states and territories will decide when they each ease restrictions, the PM reportedly wanted to fast-track the process.</p> <p>Morrison said the restrictions cost the Australian economy <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/finance/money-banking/here-s-how-much-the-lockdown-is-costing-the-australian-economy-every-week">$4 billion a week</a>.</p> <p>“That cost will continue so long as we have Australians in a position where they are unable to open their businesses and go back to the offices, children unable to go back to school, and the many restrictions in place,” he told reporters on Tuesday.</p> <p>“That is why the national cabinet has been working very effectively … as we move towards the decisions we need to take on Friday that will impact on these restrictions in weeks and months that are ahead.”</p> <p>Deputy chief medical officer Paul Kelly said Australia is meeting the <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/news/news/coronavirus-scott-morrison-reveals-three-things-needed-to-ease-nationwide-restrictions">three key criteria</a> for easing restrictions: extensive testing regime, contact tracing and local-level response.</p> <p>But he said the rules will be eased “gradually”.</p> <p>“Some things will open – others will not,” he told reporters on Wednesday.</p> <p>“It will be scaled so that risk of increasing the number of cases is minimised while giving the maximum benefit to the economy and to normalisation of society.”</p>

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