New South Wales police are investigating two separate violent home invasions that targeted women. According to Detective Superintendent Virginia Gorman, the charges against three men suggest they planned the attacks, citing evidence of premeditation. The incidents are described as "excessively violent," with weapons used and duct tape employed to restrain the victims. Both women received treatment for minor injuries. The police believe the attacks were specifically targeted.
Heavy rainfall has hit Victoria, prompting flood warnings and severe storms. Melbourne experienced one of its wettest October days in years, with up to 25mm of rain falling within an hour. Emergency services received over 200 calls for assistance, with several water rescues reported. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued a flood watch for much of the state, expecting continued rainfall through the weekend. Residents are bracing for more heavy rainfall.
The federal government plans to impose stricter rules for international students to curb the rise of "permanently temporary" migrants. Julian Hill, Assistant Minister for International Education, announced that students will now require a separate visa to transfer courses, making it more difficult to change programs. This move is accompanied by increased scrutiny of migration agents exploiting the system. The new rules aim to regulate international student migration.
A new report from the eSafety Commissioner highlights the risks for children in online gaming platforms. The report found inconsistencies in the quality of safety measures across various platforms, some of which rely solely on self-declaration of age. Commissioner Julie Inman-Grant emphasized the need for robust protections in light of increasing risks associated with online gaming environments. The report calls for improved safety measures.
Atlassian has entered into a decade-long partnership with the Goulburn Community Energy Co-operative, securing renewable energy for its new Sydney headquarters set to open in 2028. This agreement will help fund almost 70% of the solar farm's output, reflecting a growing trend among technology companies to invest in sustainable energy sources amid rising demands for renewable energy. The partnership supports Atlassian's sustainability goals.
Former Wallaby Nathan Charles has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND) at the age of 37. Charles, the first professional rugby player with cystic fibrosis, revealed his diagnosis during an interview, expressing his desire to raise awareness about the disease. He joins others, including South Sydney NRL star Jai Arrow, in facing this condition. Charles aims to increase awareness about MND.
eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman-Grant has announced she is stepping down after 10 years in the role. She suggested it is "time for new leadership" after a decade in the role. Inman-Grant reflected on the progress made but underscored the ongoing challenges in ensuring online safety, particularly for children in digital spaces. Her successor will face continued challenges in online safety.
Key points
- NSW police investigate targeted violent home invasions
- Melbourne experiences wettest day since 2024
- Federal government tightens rules for international students
