A moment in history

Today is Yom Haazmaut, the Independence Day of the State of Israel. Peter Fritz shares an anecdote of how the Decleration of Independence was arrived at.

Why is learning difficult for children with autism?

There is still a lot of research to be done around the impact of early learning programs on the development of young children with autism. Dr Giacomo Vivanti shares some first results.

Have fun and raise funds this Mother’s Day

This Sunday the Mother’s Day Classic fun run and walk will support research into breast cancer treatment and prevention. Michelle McLean is leading the Boardroom Challenge as top fundraiser nationally and has a very personal reason to do so.

The power of mindfulness to transform your world

Mindful in May is a one month campaign that teaches meditation and at the same time helps bring clean water to those in developing countries. Elise Bialylew explains why everyone should meditate regularly.

Many cultures within but not integrated

Australia prides itself as being a multicultural society. Bronte Jackson says there is still a barrier of ‘us and them’ that prevents us from being truly inclusive.

It’s thinking season

The Sydney Writers’ Festival 2014 takes places from 19 to 25 May. It is an annual literary festival that includes author talks, conversations, film screenings, panels, readings, workshops and various events for children. This year more than 400 authors are participating.

The importance of growing in Asia

The signing of a deal between the ABC and the SMG (Shanghai Media Group) to broadcast content in China has been postponed. Laurence Strano from the Australia Vietnam Business Council stresses the important role of the Australia Network in strengthening our contact with Asia.

Sydney’s urban development signals something great

Sydney is already famous for innovative architecture. Lord Mayor Clover Moore describes an area that is going through an exciting urban development transformation.

Sleepout this winter

Mission Australia invites you to sign up to host a Winter Sleepout this Saturday, 31 May, or another night that suits you this winter (before 31 August 2014).

Raising the pension age will hit most vulnerable

The federal government is considering to raise the retirement age incrementally. Robin Harvey, Charles Sturt University lecturer in Gerontology, believes any move to increase the pension age would hit the most vulnerable older Australians hardest.

Boost adoption rate through national target

Tony Abbott has ordered a committee to report on adoption in Australia in May. Jeremy Sammut urges the government to take action and boost the number of local adoptions from care.

Youth unemployment and ways forward

Young people are finding it ever more difficult to find jobs that match their skills and education. Simon Kwan is part of a group of business leaders who offer professional support to young people in their work and career development.