Government retreats on contentious budget tax measures

Government retreats on contentious budget tax measures

The Albanese government has reversed several controversial tax measures from the federal budget following voter backlash. Testamentary trusts will now be exempt from a planned 30% tax, small businesses can retain capital gains tax concessions, and exemptions are proposed for innovative start-ups. The changes have received support from affected industries including biotech companies and farmers, though opposition members claim the budget's political damage remains. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

H5 bird flu scare; airfare subsidy row; Modra fighting for life

A suspected case of H5 bird flu has been discovered in a sick seabird near Esperance, Western Australia, potentially marking the first case of this deadly strain on the Australian continent. The virus has already caused mass mortality on Herd Island, killing 13,000 baby seals, and poses a significant threat to wildlife, poultry and dairy industries. The Agriculture Minister is leading a national response as testing is conducted in Melbourne, with results expected within 24 hours. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Perth police trial live facial recognition cameras

Western Australia Police are launching Australia's first trial of live facial recognition technology using mobile cameras at major public events and venues. The system matches faces in real time against police databases to locate wanted individuals and missing persons, with human verification required before any action is taken. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

First suspected H5 bird flu case detected in Australia

A seabird found near Esperance, Western Australia, has tested positive for suspected H5 bird flu, potentially marking the first case of this deadly strain on the Australian continent. The highly contagious virus has already caused mass mortality on Heard Island, located 4,000 kilometres south-west of Perth, killing 13,000 baby seals. Federal Agriculture Minister Julie Collins is leading a national emergency response, with test results expected from Melbourne to confirm if it is the H5N1 strain that has wiped out millions of birds and wildlife globally. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Qantas tests new ways to beat jet lag

Qantas is testing its new A350 aircraft designed for non-stop flights between Sydney and London, with scientists developing specialised light and meal routines to help passengers combat jet lag on the 21-hour journey. The testing process includes sensor-equipped dummy passengers to measure heat, weight, noise and vibrations, while real passengers will also participate in trials. The aircraft features a new flight path over the North Pole to take advantage of westerly winds and reduce travel time on return flights. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.