Latest Story
-
UncategorisedEssential statistics invest in information that counts
editor | August 27, 2012
The Australian Bureau of Statistics is calling for feedback on essential statistical assets (ESA) for Australia. The consultation is being undertaken to ensure the government invests in the information most needed for critical decision making in the future.Chairperson of the Australian Statistical Advisory Council (ASAC), Geoff Allen, said high quality official statistics tell us how our society is working and progressing.
-
More engaged than you think? How young people are driving a plan for the future
Lance Emerson | August 24, 2012To older generations the ideas and actions of young people may seem mysterious and unsettling. But Dr Lance Emerson says coments from Australia's youth shows they just want to feel loved and valued.
-
My first Ironman
Katrina Cousins | August 23, 2012After riding 800km in the Smiddy Pyrenees charity bike challenge, with more than 12000m of climbing in five days, most people would consider having a break. A long break. Not so for Katrina Cousins – two weeks after her Pyrenees challenge, she decided she would participate in her first Ironman.
What’s an Ironman?
-
What does plain packaging tobacco mean for the future?
Stafford Sanders | August 22, 2012The packaging of tobacco is a major part of its advertising. Stafford Sanders says this month's ruling by the Australian High Court to allow plain packaging will see a change in tobacco sales around the world.
-
The case for bipartisanship on Kyoto
Will McGoldrick | August 21, 2012The Kyoto Protocol is seen as an important first step towards a truly global emission reduction regime. The first phase of the agreement ends in December after which a new one needs to be negotiated. Will McGoldrick says it is time it received bipartisan support.
Given the bruising carbon price debate, most people would think it mad to suggest that Australia’s next big decision on climate policy can and should receive bipartisan support. But there’s a convincing case for this to happen, as both sides of politics look beyond the rhetoric.
Phase one of the Kyoto Protocol comes to an end in December this year and countries are now being asked to sign on to new targets for a second commitment period which will kick-off in 2013.
-
The wonder of books stays the same
Julie Wells | August 19, 2012Book Week is the longest running children’s festival in Australia, and at 67 years old it still celebrates the wonder of books and Australian authors and illustrators. Julie Wells says in 2012 books may be changing, but stories aren’t.
-
How watching the Olympics and Paralympics can help break down stereotypes
Paul Oliver | August 17, 2012The Olympics Games have had their fair share of racial tension in the past but today’s games are billed as promoting cultural exchange and diversity. Paul Oliver says they have the power to make us reconsider our stereotypes or prejudices.
-
Sport opens communication between cultures
Ali Abbas | August 16, 2012Sydney FC is one of the most successful teams in Australia and home to some high-profile players and supporters. The A-League club’s new recruit, Iraqi midfielder Ali Abbas says his football journey has been full of surprises.
-
UncategorisedPlain packaging laws upheld
editor | August 15, 2012
The High Court has confirmed the Australian Government’s legal right to proceed with the mandatory plain packaging of tobacco.
Tobaco company claims that the legislation is unconstitutional were rejected by the High Court. From December all tobacco products sold in Australia must be in standardised green-brown packs, which will include larger graphic health warnings on the front.
Attorney-General Nicola Roxon said the federal government’s High Court victory on plain packaging is a watershed moment for tobacco control globally.
Tobacco companies argue the move will lead to higher rates of smoking and they’re vowing to continue their fight against the laws.
-
Sudden death in young athletes a heart stopping event
Noby Leong | August 15, 2012We have all heard of seemingly fit and healthy athletes who have suddenly dropped dead. It’s tempting to think drugs or foul play were involved but Noby Leong says there is a genetic cause that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest.
-
London calling: Australia and the 2012 Olympic Games
Daryl Adair | August 14, 2012Did our Olympians let us down in London, as the media seems to be suggesting? Or are we proud of their sporting spirit and whole-hearted participation? Daryl Adair says we need to reflect sensibly on what is realistic and stop obsessing about gold.
-
UncategorisedAsylum seeker policy released
editor | August 13, 2012
The Expert Panel on Asylum Seekers, led by Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, has released its findings on asylum seeker policy.The report recommends offshore processing in both Malaysia and Nauru and the re-opening of the detention centre on Papua New Guinea’s Manus Island. They are among 22 key recommendations delivered to the Federal Government on the policy options available to prevent asylum seekers risking their lives on dangerous boat journeys to Australia.
Mr Houston said the Panel had proposed a way forward that it believed would address the challenges that Australia faced over the short, medium and longer term.
