An Australian gold mining company will donate $300,000 towards the development of a rapid cancer test at The University of Queensland.

The funding from Evolution Mining will help researchers optimise a new gold nanoparticle blood test which could give oncologists an early and more accurate diagnosis.

Professor of Nanoscience Matt Trau who leads the project said it is visionary for a mining company to support cutting-edge medical research.

The Summer Foundation has launched a new high tech housing unit scheme in Melbourne to keep young disabled people out of aged care facilities. 

Acting CEO Carolyn Finis said young people tend to lose confidence in their quality of life after being admitted to aged care facilities.

The new units will feature voice activated appliances and height adjustable benches and sinks drafted in collaboration with disability advisors and tech experts.

Researchers are using robotic skeletons designed to help people with spinal cord injuries stand up and walk in a world-first trial in Sydney.

Jess Collins, who was the first person to participate in trial, says doctors told her she would never walk again after her near-fatal surfing accident last year.

Physiotherapist Jodie Marquez from the University of Newcastle says their exoskeleton device can help build muscle strength and improve quality of life.

At least eight people have died after a 5.4 and 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck islands in the northern Philippines just a few hours apart on Saturday morning.

 Head of the provincial disaster-response office Roldan Esdicul said some people were crushed by rubble as they slept in their beds. 

Local mayor Raul de Sagon said local doctors were being inundated with people injured by the quake as rescue efforts continue.

The US Intelligence Chief has become the latest senior figure to leave the Trump administration following an announcement from President Donald Trump on Twitter.

Director Dan Coats had clashed with the President over different approaches to the Russian and North Korean negotiations, with Mr Coats taking a hard line.

President Trump has nominated Congressman John Ratcliffe and said he would “inspire greatness for the country”.