Over 6,500 workers dead over FIFA World Cup infrastructure construction scheme
New estimates from The Guardian suggest over 6,500 migrant workers have died in Qatar over the past 10 years, after relocating to the country to work on infrastructure for the FIFA World Cup next year.
While many of the deaths are reportedly “natural”, research shows many of these are recorded without an autopsy, and fail to explain the underlying causes of death.
Calls for vaccination passport in Europe
Greece and Austria are encouraging the European Union to implement vaccination ‘passports’ to support the struggling tourist industry.
Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz tweeted out "we're advocating a digital Green Pass, like Israel's".
"That should allow you to prove, on your mobile phone, that you've been tested, inoculated or have recovered. Our goal: to avoid a lengthy lockdown and finally enable freedom to travel again in the EU, and freedom to enjoy events and cuisine."
LGBT centre in Accra shut down following protests and police raids
An LGBT community centre in Accra, the capital of Ghana, has been shut down following protests and police raids.
Government ministers appealing to a largely homophobic population, and religious figures, have successfully called for the closure of the centre.
Same sex relations are criminalised in Ghana, though Human Rights Watch has found that this is rarely enforced.
Queensland affirms refusal to pay New South Wales 'hotel quarantine bill'
Deputy Premier Steven Miles has doubled down on Queensland’s refusal to pay the hotel quarantine bill demanded by New South Wales.
New South Wales Premier Gladys Berejiklian is demanding $30 million compensation for processing Queensland residents in its quarantine centres.
Queensland is still holding out, refusing to pay up until the federal government approves a quarantine centre near Toowoomba. Steven Miles refers to the healthcare bill, which ratifies an agreement that the state is to fund the service itself.
New CEO of Legal Aid Queensland appointed
Nicky Davies has been appointed as the new CEO of Legal Aid Queensland, and is set to commence the position on the first of March.
Legal Aid provides financial support to disadvantaged Queenslanders in legal matters.
Her accomplishments in the organisation include setting up state-wide domestic and family violence duty lawyer service, as well as responding to natural disasters including the flood, cyclone and bushfire legal help programs.
School uniform design key in sport participation
A study by the University of Melbourne has found uniform design is a key barrier in sport participation.
The study conducted by the institute for health and sport surveyed girls between the ages of twelve to eighteen years in rural, regional and metropolitan areas across Australia.
Respondents wanted function over fashion, and a priority on feeling comfortable and confident with a preference for non-unisex uniforms.
Facebook bans Myanmar military from platform
Facebook has banned the Myanmar military from Facebook and Instagram, following its coup earlier this month.
The tech company says the risks of human rights abuses and the Myanmar military violating Facebook’s rules once again are too great..
Facebook has previously come under fire for platforming fake accounts spreading pro-military propaganda in 2018.
UQ publishes review of gene editing technologies
A review of gene-editing technologies published by UQ biotechnologist Dr Karen Massel could be vital in ensuring food security in the oncoming climate crisis.
Conventional plant cultivation methods take around 15 years to produce the genetic diversity required for climate resilience, which modern technologies hope to cut down by drawing on genetic reservoirs from wild varieties of crops.
Isaac Regional Council condemns management of Carmichael mine
Isaac Regional Council has unanimously passed a motion condemning the handling of the Carmichael mine by owners, Bravus, formerly known as Adani.
The motion cites Bravus’ non-compliance with agreement obligations, and mistreatment of local land-owners.
Wangan and Jagalingou spokesperson Adrian Burragubba released a statement commending the Council for standing up for its constituents, but requested that it show equal support for the traditional owners and custodians of the land.
Ipswich solar farm to begin construction
Construction of a solar farm in Ipswich is set to start by the end of the year with an estimated 100 jobs to be created.
The $80million facility was approved by the Ipswich city council last year
Division 4 Councillor Kate Kunzelmann says the project will provide more opportunities for the region.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to help grow Ipswich’s renewable energy sector and drive a more sustainable future for our community,” Cr Kunzelmann said.