By Hope NewsroomWednesday 24 Nov 2021NewsReading Time: 2 minutes
Today’s headlines from the Hope News team. You can listen to hourly bulletin updates at hopenews.com.au.
The Australian Christian Lobby has concerns that the Religious Discrimination Bill won’t “see the light of day”.
The protections in the proposed legislation have been welcomed, but says coming so close to the next Federal election, they’re concerned it won’t be passed.
The bill, which was released publicly yesterday afternoon, aims to shield people who make a statement of religious belief, as long as it’s made in good faith and is not malicious.
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Swollen rivers continue to surge into towns across the state, as the Bureau of Meteorology announces the soggy weather is likely to linger for the rest of the year.
Flooding is occurring in various parts along the Namoi, Gwydir and Macintyre Rivers.
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Masks will remain mandatory in shops and other indoor settings over Christmas, under a push from state health officials.
Cabinet’s COVID-19 subcommittee will discuss the issue tomorrow.
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The federal government will invest $22.4 million over five years to set up a Domestic, Family and Sexual Violence Commission as part of its next national plan to end violence against women and children.
Meanwhile, Labor is promising to add 500 community sector works and a new commissioner for domestic violence if they win government.
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When the Queensland borders re-open next month, travellers will not be $150 out of pocket for a mandatory COVID swab .
The Federal Health Minister says the tests have always been free under Commonwealth and state programs.
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At least 46 people have been killed after a tourist bus crashed and burst into flames in western Bulgaria.
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The UN Children’s agency says more children are being recruited into armed conflict in West and Central Africa than anywhere else in the world.
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The United States’ President has ordered the release of 15 million barrels of oil from the country’s strategic reserve, in a bid to lower energy costs.