Media bosses say they are encouraged by their latest negotiations with the government over press freedom, expressing optimism they will secure support for reforms to restrict secrecy and protect journalists and whistle-blowers. 

The “Australia’s Right to Know” coalition of media organisations is pushing 6 recommendations, including public interest exemptions from a series of national security laws, protections for whistle-blowers, freedom of information reform and the right to contest search warrant,  

The firefighters in Queensland will focus on strengthening containment lines and extinguishing the existing 75 bushfires before the weather gets worse over the weekend. 

The Bureau of Meteorology’s senior forecaster Michael Kneep says today’s cooler temperatures and easing winds could minimise fire danger.

Mr Kneep also warned the severe fire danger is likely to return again on Friday as temperatures will rise about eight degrees above average.

Investigations are underway into whether a fire that broke out during a military training exercise is connected with damaging three houses in the Gold Coast hinterland.

On October 24th, a fire was sparked during an exercise at Kokoda Barracks field training area, and again two days later.

A spokesperson from the Department of Defence said Defence has not confirmed if these fires are connected with the military training exercise of October 24th.

New Zealand MPs have approved an ‘End of Life Choice’ bill, paving the way for a referendum on euthanasia to take place next year. 

The bill passed 69 to 51 last night and was met with protest both inside and outside of Wellington’s Parliament. 

A number of MPs expressed personal experiences in favour of the bill, including Labour MP Willie Jackson, who says many high profile Maori leaders support the decision. 

The mayor of Venice is blaming climate change for the island’s historic flooding this week. 

The Italian canal city experienced the second-highest levels ever recorded, with financial costs expected to be in the millions of euros. 

Venice’s mayor Luigi Brugnaro says the flood was 'a wound that will leave a permanent mark', which he blamed on climate change.

The world’s longest research flight from London to Sydney will depart tomorrow morning, traveling 17,800km on a Qantas Boeing 787-9. 

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce says he is excited, rather than nervous about the record-breaking voyage. 

 “It's a very historic moment. It is last-frontier aviation. We believe there is a big demand for it,” Mr Joyce said. 

Researchers will test the impact of the ultra-long-haul flight on people in the cockpit and cabin and a decision will be made on whether it’s financially viable by the end of the year. 

A suspected arsonist has been arrested as a result of being caught acting suspiciously by the crew on an army Black Hawk helicopter in Sydney’s Royal National Park, late yesterday. 

The crew followed the man from in the air and alerted the police.

Police have yet to confirm the report. 

A water-bombing helicopter crashed at Pechey north of Toowoomba in a firefighting operation when the pilot attempted to perform an emergency landing in strong winds. 

Queensland Police’s Acting Inspector Regan Draheim said water-bombing pilots put themselves in treacherous situations to benefit others. 

“He’s obviously done what he’s seen best to try and recover the aircraft and to obviously save his own life,” Mr Drageim said. 

The experienced pilot was injured but survived the crash. 

A fire broke out in bushland behind the Helensvale Aquatic Centre at around 3:30 yesterday afternoon. 

Queensland Fires and Emergency Services says people in the area will be affected by the smoke, which will reduce visibility and air quality, however, properties are not under threat. 

Forecasters indicated it is unlikely there would be any rainfall to help ease the fires.