A new coral reef monitoring system will identify coral bleaching events, via satellite.

The Allen Coral Atlas uses detailed maps of every major coral reef in the world to detect bleaching in real time. 

UQ researcher Dr Chris Rolfsema says the system will inform scientists and policymakers to make rapid conservation decisions.

Deputy Premier Steven Miles has reiterated his interest in growing the space industry in Queensland.

Interest has been expressed by space technology companies for a rocket launch site near Mackay.

Mr Miles said our easterly-facing position and our proximity to the equator make Queensland the perfect place to invest in space.

The US state of Texas has passed a law banning abortions from as early as six weeks. 

The new law grants citizens the right to sue doctors who perform abortions past six weeks, with the only exception being medical emergencies. 

Centre for Reproductive Rights spokesperson said this bill allows anyone who is hostile towards abortion to sue doctors and clinics.

Anti-government protests have stretched into their fourth week in Colombia, as groups demand social change from the government. 

The protests began last month after Colombia’s right-wing government proposed a tax bill, which critics said would harm the working- and middle-classes. 

Political analyst Elizabeth Dickinson said the protests indicate a widespread distrust of government.

A Greens senator has questioned whether Centrelink’s increasingly digitised systems are letting urgent Disability Support Pension cases slip through the cracks. 

Senator Rachel Siewert put forward new data which said 130 people with a terminal illness died before Centrelink granted them a Disability Support Pension last year.

Ms Siewert says the government needs to review its processes so people do not die waiting for support.

Mining company Bravus, formerly known as Adani, has been found to have adequate measures in place to minimise erosion issues near a major rail project despite having potentially polluted a waterway.

A recent report investigated allegations that Bravus failed to properly manage erosion at a rail project in Central Queensland.

The Office of the Coordinator-General will continue to monitor Bravus to ensure full compliance.

The Brisbane Art Design program enters its third weekend of showcasing Queensland artists and designers. 

Held over 60 venues, the month-long program is showcasing Brisbane’s cultural identity in collective places, from galleries to churches to laneways.

More information about this weekend’s events can be found on the Brisbane Art Design website.

The Brisbane city council and CBD managers have teamed up to launch a six week “Friday’s in the city” campaign. 

Brisbane city has been sitting at an occupancy rate of 60 to 65 per cent for the past five months following increased work from home flexibility. 

Property Council Queensland Deputy Executive Director Jen Williams said working from home has had a significant impact on retail.