Call for action on plastics in waterways
Volunteers collected more than 250,000 pieces of rubbish from Australia's waterways, with polystyrene and cigarette butts among the most common items found.
Volunteers collected more than 250,000 pieces of rubbish from Australia's waterways, with polystyrene and cigarette butts among the most common items found.
The federal government says its budget spending on regional Australia sets a new record, with funding for roads, rail, energy, health and connectivity.
This summer was Australia's deadliest for drownings in three years, with floods playing a role, leaving 112 people dying between December and March.
Regional communities are weighing the benefits of growth, against the stress placed on infrastructure, caused by city-dwellers seeking a life in the country.
Scientists say a bizarre government pact with no expiry date has robbed the Snowy River of the water it needs to cope with the hydro power scheme.
Tonga could face food and water shortages after this weekend's underwater volcano blast, Australian scientists say.