Organisers of a planned anti-Israel rally in Melbourne’s CBD have cancelled the event following intense backlash from political leaders, community representatives and business groups, but are preparing a smaller “speak-out” at Victoria’s Parliament early next week.​ Rally cancelled after backlash A rally planned for Saturday at the State Library by fringe group Anti-Zionism Australia has been scrapped after internal discussions within the organisation. The decision follows strong criticism over the timing of the event, which was scheduled for the same weekend that funerals are being held for victims of the Bondi Beach terrorist attack. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan labelled the planned protest “deeply inappropriate” and warned that anyone seeking to inflame hatred or division would be “dealt with by police”. New “speak-out” planned Despite cancelling the CBD rally, Anti-Zionism Australia has announced it will instead hold a “speak-out” on Monday on the steps of Victoria’s Parliament. The organisers say the event will focus on opposing the federal government’s proposed adoption of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism and the recommendations of Australia’s antisemitism envoy Jillian Segal.​ Segal’s report calls for tougher hate speech and hate crime laws, including measures targeting violent or intimidating protest activity, stricter screening of foreign nationals for antisemitic views, and potential withdrawal of funding from institutions that fail to address antisemitism. Community and business concerns Jewish community leaders have condemned the cancelled rally, arguing that ongoing weekly protests are normalising intimidation and dehumanisation. Melbourne Rabbi Daniel Rabin accused the organisers of being “morally bankrupt” and said the timing of the planned event showed a lack of respect for Jewish victims and their families. The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has also urged the Allan government to consider urgent steps to prevent protests that could inflame tensions, warning of risks to public safety, social cohesion and economic activity during one of the busiest trading periods in the CBD.​ Police powers and public safety Victoria Police have declared Melbourne’s CBD a designated area over the Christmas and New Year period, granting officers expanded powers to stop and search individuals, including protesters. Although Saturday’s rally has been cancelled, police have confirmed they will maintain a visible presence at other demonstrations planned for the weekend and emphasise that public safety remains their top priority.

South-East Queensland residents are being urged to prepare for sizzling conditions this Christmas, with an incoming heatwave expected to send temperatures soaring. While Christmas Eve may bring slightly milder weather, Brisbane is forecast to hit daily highs between 33°C and 35°C throughout the festive week. Further inland, southern Queensland districts will experience even hotter conditions — with maximums ranging from 32°C to 38°C on Monday, 30°C to 35°C on Tuesday, around 30°C on Wednesday, and climbing again to 31°C to 37°C on Thursday. According to the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM), a heatwave is defined as three or more consecutive days when both daytime and overnight temperatures remain well above average compared to the local climate and recent conditions. It’s the high overnight temperatures that make heatwaves especially dangerous, as the body struggles to cool down and recover. Health officials warn that prolonged heat can lead to dehydration and heat-related illnesses. To stay safe and comfortable during the hot spell: Keep cool indoors using fans or air conditioning if possible. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Wear light, loose-fitting clothing when outside. Avoid long periods in direct sunlight. Check in on vulnerable family members, neighbours, and friends. Don’t forget your pets — make sure they have shade, fresh water, and a cool space to rest. With soaring temperatures ahead, taking simple precautions can make all the difference to staying safe this Christmas week.

The Crisafulli Government has unveiled a bold new era for Queensland’s tourism industry, announcing major expansions from four leading international airlines as part of a $75 million Connecting Queensland Fund — a key pillar of the state’s long-term Destination 2045 plan. Under the initiative, Qantas, Fiji Airways, Air New Zealand, and China Southern Airlines will all increase their services to Queensland, delivering what Premier David Crisafulli called “a fresh start for the state’s tourism sector after a decade of decline under Labor.” Environment and Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the new routes signal Queensland’s resurgence as Australia’s “home of the holiday.”“These new flights mean more visitors, more jobs, and more money flowing into local economies. We said we’d boost connectivity — and we’re doing exactly that,” he said. Boost for the Brisbane Gateway The largest expansion comes from China Southern Airlines, which will double its Brisbane–Guangzhou services to twice daily from March 30 next year. The airline’s upgraded schedule will add more than 114,000 seats annually, generating an estimated $498 million in visitor spending and creating around 1,600 new jobs. Brisbane Airport CEO Gert-Jan de Graaff said this marks a milestone moment.“Double-daily flights will supercharge Brisbane’s connectivity to China and give travellers greater choice when flying between the two regions,” he said. Gold Coast Takes Off Qantas will return to the Gold Coast’s international network in June 2026 with a direct Auckland–Gold Coast service, strengthening links with New Zealand and injecting an estimated $85 million into the state economy. The Gold Coast will also welcome a new Fiji Airways route from Nadi, operating three times a week. The connection is expected to contribute more than $50 million in tourism spending while opening new pathways to North America through Fiji’s Pacific hub. Queensland Airports Limited CEO Amelia Evans said the expansion cements the Gold Coast as Australia’s most connected airport to New Zealand.“This partnership with the Queensland Government is about growing regional connectivity, tourism and trade,” she said. More Seats Across the Tasman Air New Zealand will boost services between Brisbane and New Zealand by 35,000 seats for the March–October 2026 season. The airline will increase Brisbane–Auckland services to 26 flights per week and Brisbane–Christchurch to eight. Air New Zealand’s General Manager for Australia, Kathryn O’Brien, said demand for Brisbane travel continues to soar among Kiwi families and visitors.“We’re seeing more New Zealanders choosing Brisbane for its warm climate, outdoor lifestyle, and world-class attractions,” she said. Driving Growth Statewide Queensland Tourism Industry Council CEO Natassia Wheeler said the Connecting Queensland Fund highlights the importance of strategic investment.“Reliable aviation access is essential for our regions and operators. These partnerships show what can be achieved through long-term collaboration,” she said. The government says strengthening connectivity is key to unlocking greater prosperity for local businesses — from café owners and restaurants to tourism operators who rely on visitor numbers. As Queensland prepares to welcome the world in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Crisafulli Government says this investment in air links is just the beginning of its plan to make the Sunshine State more connected than ever.

The Crisafulli Government has announced that Springfield will be the site of Queensland’s newest HOPE Hub — part of a major $7.8 million initiative to strengthen support for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence across the state. The first of three new centres will open at Orion Springfield Central in early 2026, delivering on a key election commitment to expand access to vital recovery and support services. The HOPE Hubs, operated by community organisation Beyond DV, will provide wrap-around assistance for victims of domestic and family violence — from trauma-informed counselling and social services to housing, legal and financial support. The additional two hubs are expected to open during the 2026–27 financial year. Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm said locating the hubs in major shopping centres would make help more accessible to those who need it most. “Shopping centres provide a safe and discreet access point for victim-survivors, helping to reduce the stigma associated with seeking help,” Minister Camm said.“These hubs are not just about providing services – they’re about creating communities where victims feel safe, supported and empowered to rebuild their lives.” The government’s expansion of HOPE Hubs builds on broader reforms aimed at protecting victims and holding perpetrators accountable. Current initiatives include a GPS tracker trial for high-risk offenders in Caboolture and Townsville, new Police Protection Directions allowing officers to protect victims for up to 12 months, and a study by ANROWS into misidentification in domestic violence incidents. Beyond DV Founder and Director, Carolyn Robinson, said the Springfield hub would extend the proven success of the model already operating in Carindale. “Our HOPE Hubs provide a safe, highly accessible space where people can seek information, referrals and long-term recovery support,” Ms Robinson said.“We’re proud to bring this model to Greater Springfield and continue making a positive difference in the lives of families affected by domestic violence.” Elisabeth Rung, Centre Manager at Orion Springfield Central, said hosting the new HOPE Hub reflected the centre’s commitment to community wellbeing. “We are honoured to welcome the HOPE Hub to Orion Springfield,” Ms Rung said.“This partnership represents our dedication to creating safe and inclusive spaces while tackling vital issues like domestic abuse and mental health.” The Beyond DV HOPE Hub at Orion Springfield is expected to open its doors in early 2026, offering seven-day-a-week access to confidential support and recovery pathways for local residents.

The National Multicultural Festival will return to the heart of Canberra from Friday 7 to Sunday 9 February 2025, transforming the city centre into a vibrant celebration of culture, food, music and community representing more than 170 multicultural groups from across Australia and the world. Festival overview Over three days, the 2025 National Multicultural Festival will feature more than 270 stalls and more than 200 performances across multiple stages and venues, turning Civic into a showcase of global traditions, stories and creative expression. Organisers say the event is designed not only as a party, but as a space for people to explore, learn and connect through cultural exchange in the heart of the nation’s capital. Stages, music and performances The festival will officially open at 5pm on Friday with a ceremony honouring Ngunnawal culture, including a Welcome to Country by Aunty Violet Sheridan, storytelling by Johnny Huckle and a performance by the Ngunnawal Dance Academy. Across the weekend, eight stages and venues will host a packed program spanning everything from reggae and K-pop to traditional dance, Indigenous music and contemporary Australian acts. Headline performers include Zimbabwean-born, Canberra-based soul and R&B artist Thndo on Friday night, and ARIA-winning Gamilaraay singer-songwriter Thelma Plum, whose Sunday afternoon set will bring deeply personal, culture-rich ballads to the main stage. Specialty showcases will range from the Mini Nepal in Australia program with Nepalese popstar Asmita Adhikari, to an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Showcase featuring acclaimed storyteller Frank Yamma, as well as themed events like Cowboys & Cowgirls from Around the World, an Azerbaijan Dance & Music Workshop, Rio Samba, Son de Mexico, Kokoloco dancers, The Seben Brothers, Assyrian dance-rock group Azadoota and more. Global food and markets Food will again be one of the major drawcards, with hundreds of food stalls and food trucks inviting visitors to “eat around the world” in one weekend. The culinary program launches with “Foodie Friday”, promising everything from paella, raclette and Brazilian hot dogs to Japanese rice burgers, smoky slow-cooked meats, sizzling kebabs, delicate baos, tacos and dumplings. Akuna Street will host Food Truck Alley, where the aromas of smoked meats, street-style snacks and specialty drinks will fill the air, alongside a dumpling offering that spans Chinese xiaolongbao through to Tibetan momos. Sweet options will include classic multicultural desserts such as baklava, cannoli and Portuguese tarts, giving festival-goers a chance to finish their food journey with a taste of Europe and the Middle East. Hands-on culture and family activities Beyond the stages and food, the festival will offer a wide range of interactive, family-friendly and educational activities designed to bring culture to life. Visitors will be able to try saree draping, sample Chinese ink painting, feel the beat in African drumming workshops and explore global cinema through the Multicultural Film Festival at Elise’s Film House. Sunday will feature live cooking demonstrations showcasing dishes such as Chinese chive buns and crispy street-style tofu, while embassy villages and Sunday-only market stalls will present jewellery, handicrafts and clothing from around the world. Families can join the colourful Smartraveller Parade at 4pm on Saturday, which will feature participants from more than 50 cultures in national and traditional dress, alongside music and dance as the procession winds through the city. Throughout the weekend, children will be catered for with bilingual story-time sessions and an Instrument Petting Zoo at the Canberra Museum and Gallery in partnership with the Canberra Symphony Orchestra, while parents can make use of a Family Sanctuary with quieter spaces, face painting and craft. Seniors will have access to a dedicated “Chill Zone” hosted by COTA at the Civic Library, offering a calm retreat from the crowds, and all ages are invited to join in a family-friendly silent disco after dark. Getting there and more information The festival will take place in Canberra’s city centre, with organisers promoting the central location as easy to reach by free public transport and shuttle bus services running across the weekend. For interstate visitors and those wanting to stay in the city, a range of discounted accommodation packages will be available through participating hotels partnering with the event. Canberrans and visitors are being encouraged to mark 7–9 February 2025 in their calendars and “come hungry and curious”, ready to immerse themselves in the flavours, sounds and stories of cultures from every corner of the globe. Full program details, maps, accommodation deals and accessibility information are available at the official festival website, multiculturalfestival.com.au.

Australia’s vibrant cultural spirit will take centre stage once again as the 2026 National Multicultural Festival transforms Canberra City into a living celebration of diversity and unity from 6–8 February 2026. Leading the star-studded lineup are two powerhouse performers from distinctly different musical traditions: country music legend Troy Cassar-Daley and Australian hip-hop phenomenon L-FRESH the Lion. Cassar-Daley, one of Australia’s most beloved artists with a career spanning three decades, will perform on Sunday 8 February from 4 pm to 5 pm. A proud Gumbaynggirr and Bundjalung man, the multi-award-winning musician is renowned for his heartfelt storytelling that captures “the everyday triumphs, struggles, and joys of Australians from the city to the outback.” With more than 30 No. 1 singles, gold and platinum albums, and a deep connection to country music traditions, his performance is expected to be a festival highlight. Joining him is L-FRESH the Lion, the Sydney-born artist of Punjabi-Sikh heritage, whose innovative blend of hip-hop and cultural identity has earned him national acclaim and international collaborations with icons such as Nas, Hilltop Hoods, and Talib Kweli. Performing on Friday 6 February from 10 pm to 11 pm, L-FRESH promises a high-energy set that embodies empowerment, identity, and unity themes central to the festival’s spirit. Adding to the excitement, Canberra’s own Tahalianna Soward-Mahanga, a proud Wiradjuri and Tongan vocalist known for her breathtaking performances on The Voice, will support Cassar-Daley during his main stage performance. The three-day festival will also feature hundreds of cultural performances, food stalls, and family-friendly experiences. Highlights include: Fields of Belonging – a sports and multiculturalism panel featuring athletes from the Raiders, Brumbies, and Cricket Australia. Queen of Hearts – an all-female Mariachi band blending modern sounds with traditional Mexican influences. MusicACT Takeover – a showcase of contemporary artists from diverse cultural backgrounds. Family favourites like Glow and Tell by Patch Theatre, the Rice and Peas Jamaican Dancehall Party, and the CMAG Family Sanctuary. ACT Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Michael Pettersson MLA, called the 2026 edition “unmissable,” emphasising that it will combine the best of tradition with fresh experiences: “In its 28th year, the festival is all about discovery, where beloved favourites meet fresh experiences that surprise and delight,” he said. “Even after almost three decades, there’s always something new to experience at the National Multicultural Festival.” The annual event, known as one of Canberra’s most cherished celebrations, continues to unite more than 150 cultures in a joyous display of music, food, dance, and community connection  reflecting the essence of Australia’s multicultural identity. For more information about the program and schedule, visit the ACT Government’s official website.

Queenslanders are being urged to help shape a new long-term plan to protect one of the state’s most beloved native animals, with the Crisafulli Government opening public consultation on the next South East Queensland Koala Strategy and committing fresh funding to frontline conservation work. Fresh strategy for SEQ koalas The new SEQ Koala Strategy aims to secure the future of koalas in one of Australia’s fastest-growing regions by focusing on habitat protection and restoration, disease management, better monitoring and mapping, and stronger partnerships with local communities. Queenslanders can now have their say on the draft directions, with public consultation open until 15 March 2026 via an online discussion paper and survey. Koala council to drive action A new Koala Ministerial Advisory Council (KMAC) has been established to keep koala conservation “front and centre” of government decision-making. Chaired by Environment Minister Andrew Powell, the council will bring together experts from industry, science, local government, property and conservation groups to advise on the strategy and oversee its rollout from early 2026.​ Funding lifeline for Coomera/Pimpama koalas As part of its plan, the government has committed $950,000 to save the Coomera/Pimpama Koala Population Stewardship Partnership, plugging a funding gap and allowing Endeavour Veterinary Ecology to continue life-saving work. The funding will support critical programs such as chlamydia treatment, health monitoring, and tracking of rehabilitated and released koalas in a key habitat corridor under pressure from urban growth.​ “Part of who we are” Environment Minister Andrew Powell said the strategy was central to protecting Queensland’s identity as well as its biodiversity. “Koalas are part of who we are as Queenslanders, and we’re determined to protect them for generations to come,” he said, pointing to an existing $80 million commitment to expand protected areas and wildlife hospitals as a foundation for the new plan.​ Koala Haven’s national significance Endeavour Veterinary Ecology CEO Michael Hornby OAM described the Koala Haven project within the Coomera/Pimpama partnership as a “conservation milestone” for South East Queensland. He said the hub would deliver ongoing disease management, health monitoring and habitat protection, with lessons expected to benefit koala conservation efforts across Queensland and nationally by connecting multiple habitats into a broader, sustainable network. How Queenslanders can get involved Residents are encouraged to contribute local knowledge and ideas by completing the online survey or making a submission on the SEQ Koala Strategy discussion paper by 15 March 2026. Consultation materials and the survey link are available at the Queensland Government website: qld.gov.au/environment/plants-animals/animals/living-with/koalas/seq-discussion-paper.

Queensland has surged ahead of the rest of Australia in 2025 for new power generation and storage connections, with the Crisafulli Government claiming the top spot for adding large-scale projects to the grid as part of its push for affordable, reliable and sustainable energy. Queensland leads on new projects In 2025, transmission operator Powerlink connected 11 new generation and storage projects to Queensland’s power system, delivering almost 3 gigawatts (GW) of additional capacity. The projects include the Broadsound Solar Farm, Swanbank Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), Tarong BESS, and the Clarke Creek Wind Farm, underscoring a mix of solar, wind and battery investments across the state. Energy Roadmap and “market-led” approach Treasurer and Minister for Energy David Janetzki said the volume and diversity of new connections showed the government’s commitment to a market-led approach under its Queensland Energy Roadmap. He argued the roadmap is “grounded in economics and engineering,” aiming to upgrade existing assets while building new capacity to put downward pressure on prices and attract more private investment into generation and firming technologies.​ Big build-out forecast to 2030 and 2035 Looking ahead, the Energy Roadmap forecasts up to 6.8GW of additional wind and large-scale solar, around 600MW of new gas-fired generation and as much as 3.8GW of extra storage by 2030. By 2035, Queensland is expected to host at least 3.1GW of short-duration batteries—about 2.4GW more than today—plus up to 3.4GW of medium-duration storage to back up the grid as the generation mix evolves. Batteries key to firming the grid Powerlink Interim Chief Executive Darryl Rowell said four new connection agreements signed in 2025 will add another 850MW of capacity, all of it from battery projects now moving into delivery. He said these batteries will be vital for grid strength and stability, storing Queensland’s abundant daytime solar generation for use during evening demand peaks and supporting a more complex energy mix.​ Massive pipeline and future-ready network Powerlink is currently processing connection applications representing more than 43GW of new generation and storage, highlighting the size of the investment pipeline waiting to connect in Queensland. Rowell said the focus heading into 2026 is on building a “resilient, future-ready transmission network” that can support the state’s energy needs while delivering long-term value for customers, communities and the broader economy.

A US-born Greek restaurant chain, The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill, is set to make its Australian debut in Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley, bringing its fast-casual Mediterranean offering to one of the city’s busiest dining precincts. The first local outlet will open by mid to late February in the historic TC Beirne building on Brunswick Mall, with space for around 100 diners indoors and outdoors. Founded in Las Vegas in 2011, The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill has grown to almost 100 locations across the United States, built on family recipes passed down through generations in Greece and adapted for modern service. The Australian expansion is being led by Brisbane-based operators Surjit Salwan and business partner Chirayush Patel, who have secured an international area developer agreement with parent company United Franchise Group to roll out the concept locally. The Fortitude Valley restaurant will follow the brand’s established fast-casual model, with food prepared fresh on site daily and positioned to appeal to health-conscious diners seeking Mediterranean-style meals served quickly but with an elevated feel. Signature dishes are based on original Greek Armenian family recipes from the first Las Vegas venue, with the operators emphasising authentic, third-generation flavours and generous portions.​ Salwan and Patel plan a cautious rollout once the flagship opens, signalling two or three additional restaurants in 2026 before a larger push across South-East Queensland and along the coast. Leasing agents describe securing the TC Beirne tenancy as a significant boost for the building after a period of higher vacancy, with the new restaurant expected to activate the Brunswick Mall frontage and surrounding laneways. For Brisbane’s multicultural food scene, the arrival of The Great Greek Mediterranean Grill adds another international name to Fortitude Valley’s growing mix of global cuisines, reflecting the city’s appetite for diverse, community-focused dining options.

Italy’s expanding space program is offering a powerful new way to see the country from orbit, with satellites now central to how Italians monitor climate change, manage emergencies and build international partnerships that reach all the way to Australia. Italy’s National Space Day Italy now marks a National Space Day each December to commemorate the launch of its first San Marco 1 satellite and to highlight how space technology shapes daily life on the ground.​ Events led by the Italian Space Agency (ASI), research centres and embassies focus on public outreach, STEM education and the message that space is no longer niche science but critical national infrastructure. Satellites watching a changing planet Earth-observation satellites give Italian authorities a continuous view of coastlines, cities and farmland, helping them track erosion, urban growth and environmental stress that are difficult to see from the ground alone. These images feed into disaster planning and climate adaptation strategies, supporting civil protection during floods, storms and heatwaves as Italy confronts more frequent extreme weather.​ Space, security and the new economy Italian leaders now describe space as a strategic domain, arguing that communications, navigation and data from orbit are as vital as roads and power grids for economic resilience and security.​Investment is flowing into satellite constellations, secure telecommunications and space-enabled services, with the emerging “space economy” expected to generate new high-skill jobs and export opportunities.​ Italy–Australia partnership above the clouds One of the most visible links between Italy and Australia is SpIRIT, a nanosatellite in orbit that carries an Italian-built HERMES X-ray detector to hunt for powerful cosmic explosions called gamma-ray bursts.​ Australian and Italian agencies describe the mission as proof that combining Australian engineering with Italian instruments can deliver cutting-edge science and deepen long-term strategic cooperation in space. Why it matters for multicultural audiences For Italian and broader multicultural communities in Australia, Italy’s space ambitions and joint missions like SpIRIT show that ties with the “old country” now extend beyond culture, food and sport into advanced science and technology.​By unpacking these developments in accessible language, platforms such as MAN TV can connect viewers to complex debates about security, climate and innovation, and show how decisions taken in orbit are already reshaping life on Earth.