Queensland's new emergency warning system has been accused of creating confusion and fear during its first big test, with authorities admitting it "fell short" as Cyclone Jasper approached the North Queensland coast. Key points: Cyclone Jasper was the first test of the new Australian Warning System Senator Murray Watt says there were shortcomings A Cairns councillor says it was akin …
Footage allegedly showing Australian sheep being sold, handled, and slaughtered in violation of Australian regulations has raised new questions about the effectiveness of the government's live export assurance system. Key points: The Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System requires exporters to ensure animals are handled, sold and slaughtered in approved facilities Evidence has been sent to the Department of Agriculture showing …
The federal government will upgrade emergency warnings and text alerts and improve interstate communication for first responders, with more than $10 million allocated in next week's federal budget. Key points: Emergency communication will undergo a significant upgrade to allow for messages in near real time Messages will be able to be sent to mobiles in multiple languages Emergency services are …
Fruit is rotting at Australian ports as staff and funding shortfalls delay the import of produce and risk the destruction of crucial trade relationships, importers say. Key points: Importers say they're losing money and reputation waiting for quarantine inspections Australia's Agriculture Minister says clearance times can be better Farmers are calling for major change to funding to keep disease and …
The federal government did not fund more than $150 million in flood mitigation projects sought by state and territory governments, including a "priority" upgrade to Queensland's early flood warning infrastructure. Key points: The federal government's first round of funding for the National Flood Mitigation Infrastructure project in 2020 was capped at $50 million Queensland applied for funding for 20 projects, …