News Briefs.

Centrelink is pursuing debts dating back over 40 years, despite previously agreeing to waive old arrears. The Australian government agency is seeking repayment from individuals who allegedly owe money from decades ago. Advocates and legal bodies are calling for these…

The hospitality recruitment app Supp has been classifying its gig-workers as contractors, requiring them to have Australian Business Numbers (ABNs). This classification has raised concerns among workers' rights experts, who argue that many jobs offered through the app do not…

Australia has the highest per-capita gambling losses in the world, with an estimated $25 billion spent annually. This staggering figure has devastating consequences for many families. Problem gambling affects not only individuals but also their loved ones, causing financial and…

Climate scientists are warning of a potential "Super El Niño" event that could bring heavy rainfall and flooding to the western United States this winter. El Niño is a periodic weather phenomenon characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the…

The US Senate has confirmed Jonathan Blanche, a former defense lawyer for Donald Trump, to a key position by a narrow margin of 50-49. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer strongly condemned the confirmation, stating it allows Trump to continue "pervasive,…

A significant fossil collection, considered one of the UK's best, has been sold to an institution in Abu Dhabi. The collection, which includes numerous important specimens, was sold due to the lack of funds available to British museums to purchase…

A total solar eclipse will be visible across the UK on October 28, 2023, marking the first such event this century. The path of totality, where the eclipse will be most visible, spans the western coast of Scotland and parts…

The UK's private pension system is criticised for disproportionately benefiting the wealthy. Tax breaks on pension savings cost the government £38 billion annually. Currently, higher-rate taxpayers receive more generous tax relief than basic-rate taxpayers. Shadow minister John Healey argues that…

New York authorities have issued a warning about a gold bar scam that has targeted seniors, resulting in losses of over $100m in the past two years. The scam involves selling fake or overvalued gold bars to unsuspecting victims. State…

Dr Mark Fowler, a physician, has been identified as assisting in the failed execution of a Tennessee prisoner. This revelation raises questions about the role of medical professionals in capital punishment. The American Medical Association and other medical organizations have…

Drought and record heat have taken a toll on football pitches in Norfolk and Suffolk, prompting the local league to postpone the start of the season. The unusually dry conditions have left pitches "rock hard", making them too dangerous for…

England's housing market is experiencing a significant slowdown in the sale of leasehold flats. Recent figures indicate that most of these properties are not selling within six months, even after substantial price reductions. This trend is particularly pronounced in the…

London Mayor Sadiq Khan has urged Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham to commit to climate action, citing the "terrifying scenes" of extreme weather this summer. Khan's call comes as pressure mounts on Burnham over his potential support for new North…

The UK is hosting a decades-old event that brings together teenagers from around the world to discuss peace and conflict resolution. This year's event, held in Devon, marks the first time the UK has hosted the gathering. Participants include young…