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Australia's government has introduced legislation to ban social media access for children under 16, citing mental health concerns. The bill, announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, holds platforms accountable for enforcing the age limit and is expected to pass by the end of the year. The legislation aims to protect children from harmful online content.
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Rideshare drivers are increasingly offering passengers the option to pay in cash or through apps like Venmo, bypassing Uber and Lyft. This trend arises from declining earnings and dissatisfaction with app-based fare structures. Meanwhile, Uber is petitioning for a reduction in driver pay rates amid falling ridership and rising operational costs.
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A surge in matcha demand, fueled by social media, has led to significant shortages and price hikes for popular brands. Producers in Japan have raised prices by up to 40%, and some suppliers are pausing production. Consumers are feeling the impact, with limited availability expected until the next harvest.
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Hainan Airlines flight HU438 returned to Rome's Fiumicino Airport on November 10 after a bird strike caused an engine fire. Meanwhile, Qantas flight QF520 made an emergency landing in Sydney on November 8 due to a suspected engine failure. No injuries were reported in either incident.
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Recent studies reveal alarming insights into microplastics, highlighting their pervasive presence from ocean depths to urban environments. Research indicates that synthetic textiles and tyre wear are significant contributors, raising concerns about their health impacts, including potential cancer risks and fertility issues. Investigations into mysterious substances in Canadian waters further complicate the pollution narrative.
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Alan Jones, the former Australian rugby coach and radio broadcaster, has been charged with 24 sex crimes involving eight alleged victims from 2001 to 2019. The 83-year-old will appear in court on December 18. Police describe the investigation as complex and protracted, urging other victims to come forward.
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Rail services in Sydney and London are facing significant disruptions due to labor disputes and operational issues. In London, the Elizabeth Line is set for a month of chaos following a software upgrade failure and planned strikes. Meanwhile, Sydney averted a major shutdown but still faces service reductions amid ongoing negotiations over pay and working conditions.
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Jon M. Chu's 'Wicked' opened with $114 million domestically, marking a record for Broadway adaptations. Meanwhile, 'Gladiator II' debuted with $55.5 million. Both films are revitalizing a struggling box office ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday.
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Katy Perry has successfully overturned a trademark ruling that favored Australian designer Katie Taylor, allowing her to sell merchandise under her stage name in Australia. The appeal court found Perry had trademarked her name before Taylor's business began, leading to Taylor's trademark being deregistered.
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Recent art exhibitions in Berlin, Bangkok, and Sydney have ignited discussions on pressing political issues, including Israel's actions in Gaza and climate change. Artists like Nan Goldin and Cao Fei are using their platforms to address these contemporary crises, reflecting a shift in the art world's engagement with societal challenges.
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Senior Constable Kristian James Samuel White was found guilty of manslaughter in the New South Wales Supreme Court for the death of 95-year-old Clare Nowland, who was Tasered while holding a steak knife. The incident occurred in May 2023, leading to a significant debate on police use of Tasers.
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Raj Matharu, 31, was arrested at LAX for attempting to smuggle methamphetamine-soaked clothing in suitcases destined for Sydney. The clothing, including a cow onesie, weighed around 71 pounds and tested positive for meth. He faces serious charges and potential life imprisonment if convicted.
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Katherine Grainger has been elected as the first female chair of the British Olympic Association (BOA), succeeding Hugh Robertson. Grainger, a five-time Olympic medalist, will begin her term in early 2025 after completing her role at UK Sport. Her election marks a significant milestone in British sports administration.