MP David Crisafuli has announced the immediate repeal of a controversial regulation, which he terms the “CFMEU Tax,” arguing the action is vital to boost productivity and deliver housing affordability across Queensland. The statement was made from his office and subsequently posted on Facebook. Mr. Crisafuli declared that his government is moving aggressively to address inefficiencies in the building sector. He stated, “We are restoring productivity in Queensland by scrapping Labor’s CFMEU Tax,” and emphasized that this represents “the biggest steps forward for productivity on Queensland construction sites and being able to deliver more houses today.” Allegations of Misogyny and Corruption The regulation being removed is formally known as BPIC, which Mr. Crisafuli explicitly labelled as the “CFMEU Tax,” asserting, “that is the removal of BPIC which we are calling the CFMEU Tax.” He laid the blame for the tax squarely on the previous administration, claiming, “It was put in by the former government.” He then made serious accusations regarding the intent and effect of the clause, stating that “It was all about looking after their mates.” He alleged that the working culture was negatively impacted by the regulation, asserting that “the misogyny the bullying the harassment on construction sites by the CFMEU was not just allowed but it was encouraged through this clause.” He confirmed the immediate removal: “we’re removing it today.” Economic Impact and Housing Affordability The Member of Parliament stressed that the continuation of the tax would have crippled the state’s economy, citing findings from an independent assessment. Mr. Crisafuli noted, “An independent report has found that if BPIC continued by 2030 we’d be paying 25% more on major projects and that would be worth over $20 billion to our state.” He directly linked the repeal of the tax to critical relief in the housing market, warning of severe consequences had the regulation remained. He explained that without the removal of BPIC, “In the house market that means 26,500 less homes built and that would have forced rents up by 8.3%.” Concluding his statement, Mr. Crisafuli affirmed decisive action, stating, “So we’re taking action BPIC is gone.” He ended with a determined commitment to improving the state’s economic landscape: “The days of the CFMEU running riot across Queensland will be a thing of the past and we are determined to make sure that we return productivity and affordability to this great state.”

Australia’s most vital services—including our electricity, water supply, and transport networks—are facing growing threats from highly advanced, state-backed hacking groups based in China. According to warnings from top intelligence officials and cybersecurity experts, these attacks are moving beyond simple data theft and are now focused on “cyber-enabled sabotage,” meaning the hackers are trying to gain access in order to actively disrupt or damage the critical infrastructure millions of Australians rely on every day. Why the Alarm Bells Are Ringing The Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) has reported aggressive cyber activity aimed squarely at sectors like telecommunications, energy grids, and water supplies. These threats are serious because a successful attack could directly endanger public safety. Experts warn that such sabotage could: Cause blackouts during extreme weather events. Disrupt vital emergency services. Potentially contaminate water supplies. The financial toll is already significant. Official intelligence reports suggest that the cost to Australia from espionage and cyberattacks—with critical infrastructure being a prime target—has reached billions of dollars in the past year alone. The Threat Is Evolving Cybersecurity researchers have identified specific Chinese hacking groups, including Salt Typhoon and Volt Typhoon, that are constantly adapting their methods. Their strategy is often patient: they look for hidden weaknesses and maintain quiet access to systems. The goal is to be fully prepared for high-impact disruptions if global geopolitical tensions rise. This pattern is part of a wider global trend where hostile nations blend online warfare with economic and political objectives. What Needs to Be Done In response, ASIO and government cybersecurity agencies are urging immediate action. They are calling on Australian companies and all government bodies to significantly increase their vigilance, immediately strengthen digital defenses, and urgently improve their plans for responding to a security incident. The consensus is clear: close collaboration between the private companies that run these services and the public sector is absolutely critical to preventing major acts of sabotage. While the severity of the threat is high, experts also emphasize a balanced perspective: most attempted attacks are proactively defended against, and Australia’s defense capabilities are strong and constantly improving. Continued investment in cyber resilience, clear public awareness, and transparent information sharing are crucial to keeping vital services secure against these persistent and evolving risks. This report is based on recent public warnings and verified reports from ASIO and reputable cybersecurity studies. The financial loss figures are derived from official intelligence and media assessments for accuracy and credibility. 

Queensland health authorities are stepping up contact tracing efforts after five new measles cases were confirmed across the state’s south-east. Officials are warning the public to expect more infections as measles cases surge nationwide. The jump in local cases has prompted Queensland Health to coordinate with health officials in New South Wales amid a wider national uptick. Across Australia, 153 cases have been recorded so far this year — nearly triple last year’s total and the highest number since 2019. Western Australia has also reported its largest measles outbreak since 1997. Health officials confirmed that one of Queensland’s latest infections was linked to a traveller who had recently returned from Indonesia. Three other cases are associated with last month’s Jelly Roll concert at the Brisbane Entertainment Centre. Authorities are notifying attendees from the October 24 event as part of the ongoing contact tracing process. Public Urged to Check Vaccination Status All five recent patients are aged between 30 and 49. Health authorities say only one had received a full vaccination overseas, while the others were partially vaccinated or not immunised at all. So far this year, Queensland has recorded 30 cases in total — 12 of which were imported from overseas travel, while another 12 were close contacts of returned travellers. Chief Health Officer Dr Catherine McDougall is urging Queenslanders, especially those planning overseas trips, to check their vaccination records. “We’re seeing a significant number of cases linked to travel from Indonesia, particularly Bali, as well as Cambodia and Vietnam,” she said. “With Schoolies coming up, we want young people to make sure they’re fully vaccinated before heading overseas.” Health Minister Tim Nicholls emphasised the importance of seeking medical advice early for anyone showing symptoms such as fever, cough, or runny nose. “Please don’t go straight to the emergency department, as this increases the risk of spreading the virus,” he said. “Contact your doctor first for advice on the safest way to get treatment.” He added that anyone born after 1966 who has only received one dose of the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine should get a booster shot, which is available free through the National Immunisation Program and offers around 97 percent lifelong protection. Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that typically begins with cold-like symptoms before developing into a distinctive red rash. An infected person can spread the virus from one day before symptoms appear until about four days after the rash emerges.

Ensuring safety and support for women* experiencing Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) starts with culturally responsive care. For many culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) and immigrant and refugee women, accessing help can mean facing unique barriers and challenges. The urgent call: Help ensure any door a woman experiencing DFV walks through opens into a culturally safe space. Understanding the Need: We know that “the contexts, nature and dynamics of domestic and family violence differ for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) groups, and immigrant and refugee women. These groups face additional barriers when accessing support services” (ANROWS, 2019). Upcoming Training Sessions: Build Your Cultural Responsiveness Community members and sector professionals are invited to join a 3-hour interactive training session in late October and early November. The sessions are designed to help participants build their capacity to provide culturally safe responses to Domestic and Family Violence. What You’ll Learn: Through this session, you’ll build your awareness of: The diversity and impact of prearrival journeys and settlement experiences, values, attitudes, and beliefs amongst CALD communities. Intersectional challenges and barriers to accessing services and supports. Practical strategies to engage and support refugee and CALD women who may be experiencing DFV. Session Details: Tuesday 18 November, 1:00pm to 4:00pm Online Register Your Interest: We are currently gathering Expressions of Interest for these free sessions via these online forms: https://forms.office.com/r/TmvGf5TjvtExpressions EOI – Cultural capability workshop: Building our cultural responsiveness together Collaborative Community Action: Together with community leaders from diverse cultural communities, representatives from the DFV sector have been meeting to explore what cultural responsiveness in DFV response looks like. This training offers a unique opportunity for participants to be part of this vital conversation—bringing experiences, stories, and ideas. Event Hosts and Support: This workshop is hosted by the Family Peace Building Program and Multicultural Australia, and supported by the Queensland Government. Find Out More: For further information, please contact Nehal El-Tahir, Project Coordinator: Phone: 0461 412 267 Email: nehalE@mcaus.org.au Call to Action: Step up to ensure that every door opens into a culturally safe space for women* experiencing Domestic and Family Violence. Add your voice, enhance your skills, and become a champion of cultural safety.

The sentencing of a teenager to 16 years behind bars for the fatal stabbing of grandmother Vyleen White at an Ipswich shopping center has brought into sharp relief the painful intersection of community devastation and the rigid limitations of youth justice legislation. The now 17-year-old offender, who cannot be named for legal reasons, pleaded guilty to the murder of 70-year-old Ms. White, who was attacked and stabbed in the chest shortly after arriving at a Redbank Plains shopping center in February 2024. The teenager stole Ms. White’s car and fled after the attack, which was witnessed by Ms. White’s young granddaughter. While the sentence places the offender’s potential release in 2033, the case highlights significant social ramifications and fuels a charged public debate over the appropriateness of sentencing laws for heinous crimes committed by juveniles. The Catastrophic Social Impact on a Community and Family The court proceedings underscored the immense, catastrophic pain and suffering inflicted upon Ms. White’s family and the broader community. Chief Justice Helen Bowskill emphasized that Ms. White was a “defenceless” and “innocent older woman” who had the fundamental right to feel and be safe in public. The Chief Justice condemned the act as “senseless and selfish violence,” stressing that all human lives are valuable and precious. For Ms. White’s family, the trauma extends beyond grief. Ms. White’s daughter, Cindy Micallef, described her mother as the family’s “foundation” and spoke outside court about the family being “shattered and fractured”. Ms. Micallef highlighted the lasting psychological harm, noting the family is “haunted by her last thoughts, her last moments”. Crucially, the impact on Ms. White’s young granddaughter, who witnessed the stabbing, is a major concern, with Ms. Micallef noting the “deep sadness behind her eyes”. While acknowledging the Chief Justice was restricted by existing laws, Ms. Micallef stated that the family was “gutted” by the sentence. This reaction reflects a broader societal tension where the need for justice and retribution clashes with legal constraints applied to youth offenders. Navigating the Legal Framework of Youth Sentencing The 16-year sentence delivered in the Supreme Court in Brisbane was determined under Queensland’s youth justice legislation that was in place at the time of the 2024 offense. The prosecution and defense agreed that the killing should be found to be “particularly heinous”. This crucial finding allowed the Chief Justice to impose a sentence higher than the previous maximum of 10 years for a juvenile offender convicted of murder. Chief Justice Bowskill described the offending as “callous and cowardly” and determined that the act was “conscious, deliberate and determined,” rejecting the offender’s claim that he had “blacked out” due to intoxication. However, the legal framework also mandated consideration of mitigating factors, or “special circumstances,” for a juvenile. These factors included the teenager’s youth, his early guilty plea, and his prospects of rehabilitation. Because of these circumstances, the Chief Justice reduced the time he must serve in custody from 70 per cent of the sentence to 60 per cent. The court also heard details regarding the offender’s background, noting that he was “socially excluded and isolated” after his family moved to Queensland. He became associated with people affiliated with a criminal gang, using drugs and alcohol to fit in, which led to him becoming “desensitised to crime” and seeking a “thrill” from committing offenses. The Chief Justice acknowledged his “malleability” but insisted that he “chose to act as he did” Legislative Pressure and the Demand for “Adult Crime, Adult Time” The outcome of the sentencing immediately generated political and social pressure for stricter penalties. Ms. White’s family has been actively advocating for the roll-out of the state’s “adult crime, adult time laws,” and Ms. Micallef expressed a desire to see similar legislation imposed across other Australian jurisdictions. Premier David Crisafulli stated outside court that no sentence would ever be enough for the family, emphasizing that the result was “not acceptable”. He confirmed that subsequent to Ms. White’s death, the state had introduced new legislation mandating a life sentence for juvenile offenders convicted of murder. This shift demonstrates the legislative response to the deep-seated public feeling that, for crimes of such severity, the age of the offender should not supersede the requirement for severe punitive justice, thus moving the legal framework toward prioritizing retribution and deterrence over typical youth rehabilitation goals. The case of Vyleen White serves as a profound example of the tension between a legal system designed to consider the youth and rehabilitation potential of an offender, and the overwhelming societal demand for punishment commensurate with the crime’s horrific impact. The 16-year term represents a middle ground dictated by prior law, but the resulting public outcry and subsequent legislative change highlight the increasing pressure on the justice system to align penalties for juvenile murderers with adult standards. Source: abc.net Note: The provided source material is an excerpt from a news article. While the article references the case and the legal sentence, it does not include information or content derived from a video.

The Victorian Multicultural Commission (VMC) marked the close of 2025 with a vibrant celebration at Broadmeadows Town Hall on 10 November. More than 500 community leaders, partners and multicultural Victorians came together for an evening of reflection, culture and connection. The program spotlighted Victoria’s rich cultural diversity through dynamic performances and discussion. Highlights included a graceful Sri Lankan dance by the Shashila Dance Troupe and lively Italian tunes by Segmento, who invited guests to join in the traditional tarantella. Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt MP delivered the keynote speech, reaffirming the Victorian Government’s ongoing support for multicultural communities and social cohesion across the state. VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen AM reflected on the resilience and achievements of Victoria’s communities over the past year, while VMC Director Kashif Bouns presented key outcomes from the 2024–25 work program, outlining the Commission’s priorities and partnerships that continue to strengthen multiculturalism in Victoria. The evening’s proceedings were guided by MC and former Hume City Council Mayor Joseph Haweil. Dr Chris Mallika Bhadra, a member of the VMC Regional Advisory Council, facilitated a panel featuring community leaders Dorcas Maphakela, Dalal Samaan and Dr Bruce Wong. Together, they explored how organisations like the VMC can elevate multicultural voices and shared practical ideas for building a more inclusive Victoria. Guests also enjoyed connecting over locally sourced food, reflecting the VMC’s commitment to inclusion, belonging and community-led engagement. VMC Chairperson Vivienne Nguyen AM said the event captured the enduring spirit of Victoria’s multicultural people. “The VMC End of Year event showcased the strength, resilience and spirit of Victoria’s multicultural communities and recognised the Commission’s 42-year history of supporting Victorians from all backgrounds. It was a special opportunity to celebrate major achievements and renew our shared commitment to an inclusive future.” 

Several schools in Canberra and Brisbane, including Mancel College, have announced temporary closures following the discovery of asbestos in brightly coloured sand products recently recalled nationwide. The snap closures are a precautionary step to safeguard the health of students and staff. Authorities confirmed that laboratory testing detected traces of tremolite asbestos in children’s sand products. In response, affected schools immediately closed their campuses for thorough inspections and removal of contaminated materials. Education and health departments are coordinating with specialist contractors to safely dispose of any potentially hazardous sand. Schools have communicated with families to alert them to the situation and assure that student safety is the highest priority. The recall of the coloured sand was issued earlier this week after tests revealed asbestos contamination. Officials are reviewing the supply chain to prevent future incidents and to ensure all affected products are removed from schools and other facilities. Government guidelines for asbestos management are being strictly followed. This includes detailed site inspections, adherence to safe removal processes, and ongoing consultation with health and safety experts. Schools plan to reopen once they are deemed safe. No long-term closures have been announced at this stage, with schools aiming to resume normal operations as soon as all safety concerns are addressed. For updates and more information, parents and guardians are advised to monitor official school communications and follow guidance from state health departments

Australia is rolling out the welcome mat for its multicultural future at the Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort, where the nation’s most influential settlement and migrant advocates will gather for the 2025 National Settlement Conference, hosted by the Settlement Council of Australia (SCOA). Under the banner “We Share a Dream,” hundreds of leaders, policymakers, service providers, and community changemakers will shape next steps for a country built on migration, ambition, and belonging. What’s on the Program? Wednesday, Nov. 19: Pre-conference Symposium (11:30am – 5:00pm) kicks off with expert panels, data-driven discussions, and bold new ideas powering Australia’s settlement sector. Welcome Reception (5:00pm – 7:00pm) promises hot topics and fresh connections as delegates network over fabulous fare. Thursday, Nov. 20: Conference Day 1 & Exhibition (8:00am – 5:00pm) opens the doors to interactive sessions, real-world strategies, and the latest migrant-focused innovations, all in one place. Conference Dinner (7:00pm – 11:00pm) shines a spotlight on those leading Australia’s migrant inclusion revolution. Friday, Nov. 21: Conference Day 2 & Exhibition (8:30am – 3:30pm) wraps up the event with actionable plans, sector partnerships, and success stories from every corner of the country. In the Spotlight: Poster Presentations From rural support programs to urban welcome hubs, the Poster Session will showcase Australia’s top initiatives and creative solutions for helping migrants and refugees build successful lives Down Under. Partners and Behind-the-Scenes SCOA is teaming up with the Australian Government to power this event. Sector organisations can still apply to partner, exhibit, and sponsor—full details in the official prospectus. Where and How to Register? The Novotel Sunshine Coast Resort provides everything you need: modern facilities, ample accommodation, and easy access for attendees nationwide. Register now to reserve your seat at the conference steering Australia into a multicultural future. Contact the Organisers: Phone: (02) 6282 8515 Email: info@scoa.org.au Conference queries: scoa2025nsc@bkaevents.com.au This event honours the traditional custodians of the Ngunnawal people and all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, respecting Elders past, present, and future.

Sydney, 7 November 2025 – Marking a transformative era in Australian disability advocacy, the Multicultural Disability Advocacy Association of NSW (MDAA) has officially become Multicultural Disability Advocacy Australia (MDAA), unveiling its new name and expanded vision at a public announcement this week. Guided by a comprehensive consultation with its members, the organization has rebranded to reflect its growing national scope while retaining its strong community roots in New South Wales. The refreshed identity keeps the established MDAA acronym, a symbol synonymous for 30 years with meaningful advocacy for people with disabilities, their families, and carers from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds. “MDAA’s transition from ‘Association’ to ‘Australia’ is more than a change of name; it’s a powerful recognition of our expanding vision,” said an MDAA spokesperson. “We remain firmly anchored in our values, committed to fostering inclusion and empowering multicultural communities across the country.” Over its three decades, MDAA has become the peak body for multicultural disability advocacy in NSW, championing equitable access, systemic change, and amplifying the voices of communities who have historically faced barriers to inclusion. The association continues to deliver state-wide and national projects, from policy advocacy and regional outreach campaigns to capacity-building and digital skills programs. The organization’s new name aligns with its recently launched Strategic Plan 2026–2029, which focuses on “permanently anchoring inclusion and nurturing strength in diversity.” MDAA’s leadership promises that the rebrand will facilitate even greater partnerships, policy reform, and support for culturally diverse people with disability in every corner of Australia. Community members and stakeholders have welcomed the rebrand, seeing it as an affirmation of MDAA’s enduring legacy and future relevance. The association invites all supporters to connect, participate in its programs, and help shape a more inclusive nation. For more information, or to reach MDAA: Address: 10-12 Hutchinson St, Granville NSW 2142 Email: mdaa@mdaa.org.au Website: www.mdaa.org.au Phone: (02) 9891 6400 / 1800 629 072 Sources: MDAA official announcements, member consultations, public statements.

Today marks World Diabetes Day, where the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO) and the Bupa Foundation are highlighting the critical role of community-led action in addressing diabetes within Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The focus of this year’s commemoration is “Building the Workforce, Strengthening Community, and Closing the Gap”. The Ongoing Challenge of Diabetes While there has been tangible progress in recent years, diabetes remains a severe health challenge. The rate of diabetes-related deaths among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people has decreased from 100 per 100,000 in 2008 to 70 per 100,000 in 2019. Nevertheless, diabetes still accounts for 7.3 percent of all deaths and continues to impact families across multiple generations. In certain regions, the rates of Type 2 diabetes are considered to be among the highest globally. Dr. Jason Agostino, NACCHO Medical Advisor, acknowledged that although management is improving and more people with diabetes are achieving healthy blood sugar levels due to community-controlled care, the complex nature of the disease requires greater attention. Diabetes rarely occurs in isolation; most people starting dialysis in these communities have diabetes, and many also experience heart disease. Dr. Agostino emphasized the necessity of long-term investment and a tailored approach to address these complex needs, along with greater investment in prevention efforts to break the intergenerational cycles of diabetes. Community-Led Solutions: Health Strong, Diabetes Gone NACCHO and the Bupa Foundation are addressing these complex needs through the NACCHO | Bupa Foundation Health Strong, Diabetes Gone partnership. This collaboration aims to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to strengthen their workforce, improve early detection and prevention, and ensure that care is culturally informed and locally led. Central to the success of this initiative is the philosophy of community control, reflecting trust, respect, and community leadership. NACCHO Chair Donnella Mills stated that every improvement and life change stems from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people leading the solutions for their families and the next generation. She noted that the partnership is about trust, empowerment, and pride, emphasizing, “When we build our workforce, we build the strength of our communities”. The Health Strong, Diabetes Gone program is built on long-term vision, investing in people, training, and the future of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, rather than short-term fixes or symbolic gestures. NACCHO CEO Pat Turner AM asserted that this approach proves that community control delivers better outcomes. Training and Technology: Empowering the Workforce Key components of the partnership focus on building local capability and providing essential educational resources. 1. Train the Trainer Program: This initiative builds local confidence, capability, and leadership across various regions through a community-led methodology. Since its launch, 16 trainers and assessors have successfully completed the Diabetes Train the Trainer workshop. These individuals are now equipped to lead specialized diabetes skillset training for Aboriginal Health Workers and Practitioners, including those participating in the Aboriginal Health Worker Traineeship Program. 2. NACCHO Diabetes Learning Hub (LMS): NACCHO designed this digital education platform specifically to deliver culturally safe, evidence-based diabetes training and support for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workforce employed in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs). The LMS offers flexible, on-demand learning intended to strengthen care coordination, improve early intervention strategies, and enhance outcomes for families managing diabetes. A Call for Sustained Action This World Diabetes Day, NACCHO and the Bupa Foundation issued a unified call to action, reminding all stakeholders that progress requires communities to lead the way. The organizations are demanding: Long-term, sustained investment in community-led diabetes prevention, screening, and care. • Dedicated support for mothers, children, and families to actively break the cycle of intergenerational diabetes. Greater access to continuous glucose monitoring, advanced therapies, and emerging technology. The strengthening of the ACCHO workforce to ensure culturally safe care is available where it is most needed. The future of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health, and truly closing the gap, hinges on listening to, investing in, and backing solutions that are driven by the community.