Star News Briefing

WA's plans to reopen next month have been scrapped... Premier Mark McGowan has postponed the state's February 5reopening indefinitely due to the risk of Omicron That date was based on when the state was expected to reach a 90 per cent vaccination target Instead, the list of exemptions to cross the border has been expanded to include new reasons to enter on compassionate grounds. But those who enter the state will still be required to isolate for 14 days.     See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

States And Territories Will Outline Their Own Reopening Plans In Coming Days Rollout Of New Covid Vaccine To Begin Next Month Novak Djokovic Considers Suing Feds Over Visa Bungle And Kanye Takes Swipe At Pete Davidson In Leaked TrackSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The COVID-safe return to the classroom will dominate talks at today's National Cabinet meeting New South Wales and Victoria are expected to present a plan to have students undergo rapid testsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gap Between Second And Third Doses Reduced To 3mths Amid Omicron Outbreak ADF On The Way To Victoria To Drive Ambulances Detectives Look For More Clues After Missing Girl's Body Found In Barrel And Visa Rebates On The Way For International Students And BackpackersSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Federal Government has enacted the private hospitals agreement, as the country's public hospitals continue to feel the strain from COVID 100,000 health staff from private hospitals and up to 57,000 nurses will be deployed to the public system It comes after Australia marked its deadliest day since the pandemic began... with 36 deaths in NSW and 22 in Victoria See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Federal Government Re-activates Private Hospital Agreement Relief On The Way For Tonga The World's Top Billionaires Double Their Wealth Since Start of Pandemic Kylie Jenner Granted Permanent Restraining Order Against Crazed FanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A heroes welcome for Novak Djokovic after touching down in Serbia He was greeted by supporters after arriving back home, in the wake of the visa saga Pressure is now mounting on Tennis Australia's Chief Executive Craig Tiley  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Experts Warn More Tsunamis And Acid Rain Possible In Tonga Fifth Vaccine Approved For International Travellers Novak Djokovic Touches Down In Dubai And.. Kanye Has A Dig At Kardashians For Not Telling Him About Daughter's BirthdaySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Novak Djokovic has jetted out of Australia, after losing his visa appeal. Pictures have emerged of the World Number One flanked by Border Force officials as he waited to board his flight. The decision ends his hopes of of defending his Australian Open title While Serbia's president Alekasandar Vucic has responded angrily to the deportation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tonga has been hit by a tsunami after a huge underwater volcanic eruption triggered warnings across the south-western pacific including Australia. A full bench of the Federal Court will decide if Novak Djokovic will defend his Australian Open title. Pub owners across the country are urging the federal government to cut taxes on beer as hospitality continues to suffer from the pandemic.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Novak Djokovic will remain in Australia while the Federal Court hears an appeal to his second visa cancellation. Public health officials are growing increasingly confident Australia will soon pass the peak of the Omicron wave, with case numbers expected to plateau in coming weeks. Some Aussie retailers are calling for a relaxation of isolation rules to be expanded as staff shortages continue across the sector.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Immigration Minister Alex Hawke has announced he has invoked his discretionary power and has cancelled Novak Djokovic's Visa for a second time. Health advice is being blamed for the lack of rapid antigen tests in Australia. A ten year old girl has managed to escape unharmed after her father allegedly stabbed her mother and younger sister to death at a home in Melbourne. In sport, England has steam-rolled through Australia's top order on day one of the final Ashes test in Hobart, taking four wickets for just 83 runs. And in entertainment,  Kanye West is being investigated by police for allegedly punching a fan who asked for an autograph.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PRINCE ANDREW has been STRIPPED of military titles and royal patronages as a sexual abuse lawsuit moves forward in the US. NOVAK DJOKOVIC could find out this afternoon whether he'll be allowed to stay in the country to defend his Australian Open title. Australia has matched its hottest day on record, with an airport in W-A's Pilbara region hitting 50-point-7 degrees. While in sport, Usman Khawaja has moved to the top of the batting order for the fifth Ashes Test, after Marcus Harris was axed from the home side..which starts in Hobart today.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More workers are now exempt from isolation rules if they are asymptomatic including transport, telecommunications, data, broadcasting and media, childcare and education. Novak Djokovic has been included in the Australian Open draw despite uncertainty surrounding his visa status. An urgent recall has been issued for Huggies Thick Baby Wipes. In sport, Scott Boland will undergo another fitness test tomorrow ahead of the final Ashes test in Hobart. And in entertainment, Jamie Lynn Spears insists she played no part in Britney's 13-year conservatorship.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's growing pressure on the Immigration Minister to make a decision on the Novak Djokovic visa matter today.Prince Andrew's sexual assault case is heading to trial in the US and the Queen's second son may have to testify. Aussies Nicole Kidman - Cate Blanchette and Sarah Snook have scored Screen Actors Guild Award nominations.And Australia's Ashes side has had its first look at the Blundstone Arena pitch in Hobart.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The PM has warned Australia faces a massive challenge in keeping things moving, as Omicron cases continue to surge across the country. Western Australia has taken the extraordinary step of shutting itself off from the rest of the country just weeks before it's borders are due to open. Novak Djokovic is copping a tsunami of backlash after admitting he took part in an in-person interview, despite knowing he was COVID-positive. In sport, Aussie Jordan Thompson bows out of the Sydney Tennis Classic. And in entertainment, British TV star Simon Cowell secretly pops the question to his girlfriend of 13-years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Supermarkets are implementing buying limits to deal with supply chain issues that are now extending to everything from cars to fast food.The SERBIAN Prime Minister has weighed in on NOVAK DJOKOVIC's visa drama.After a three year absence, there'll be a HOST in charge of this year's Academy Awards.While in the Big Bash, wins to the Sydney Sixers over the Melbourne Renegades and the Perth Scorchers over the Melbourne Stars.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia's Immigration Minister Alex Hawke has released a statement saying he is still considering whether to cancel novak Djokovic's visa. Medical experts say it won't be business as usual when schools go back and are warning principals and parents - COVID outbreaks are inevitable. US surgeons have successfully implanted a heart from a genetically modified pig - in a 57-year-old man. In sport, Bernard Tomic has failed to qualify for the Australian Open. And in entertainment, Betty White's death certificate reveals the TV icon's cause of death.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victoria Police were forced to use capsicum spray on supporters of Novak Djokovic who blocked a busy city street last night. Children aged 5 to 11 have been rolling up their sleeves to receive their Covid vaccinations.  Authorities in New York are investigating a possible maintenance issue with a door that failed to close during a fire in a BRONX apartment building.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Novak Djokovic has won his court battle against the Federal government. Kids around the country have rolled up their sleeves to receive their Covid vaccinations as 5 to 11-year-old's become eligible for the jab. Major surpermarkets are considering rationing more products as staff shortages impact operations. In sport, disappointment for Sydney tennis fans - as world number one Ash Barty withdraws from the Sydney Tennis Classic. And in entertainment, three Aussies have won Golden Globe Awards.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Novak Djokovic claims he was told by Australia’s immigration department before he landed in Melbourne that he was eligible for a vaccine exemption, as he'd only just recovered from COVID. From tomorrow, workers who test positive to COVID-19 via a rapid antigen test can apply for a federal pandemic leave disaster payments. Covid continues to spread among the ranks of Australia’s politicians with the South Australian Premier Steven Marshall announcing he’s in isolation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Czech tennis star Renata Voracova has joined Novak Djokovic in hotel detention, after being detained by Border Force officials. Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has been forced to isolate with his family after testing positive for Covid-19. Ash Barty will face Iga Swiatek in the semi finals of the Adelaide International.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Novak Djokovic will remain in Australia until at least Monday - when his Federal court hearing into his Visa cancellation will be held 2021 was the 19th warmest year in Australia  England trail by 403 runs at the Sydney Ashes test Nathan Buckley collapses in the jungle on 'I'm a celebrity, get me out of here'See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A visa mixup at Melbourne Airport has stalled Novak Djokovic's entry to Australia A PCR test no longer needed if you test positive for Covid-19 on a rapid antigen test Rain delays mar the first day of the Sydney Ashes test Archibald-winning Australian artist CRAIG RUDDY has died of Covid complications See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Novak Djokovic will defend his Australian Open title after gaining a medical exemption for the Covid vaccination The PM to propose changes for Rapid Antigen testing kits at National Cabinet The cricket Ashes series continues in Sydney  A judge throws out a lawsuit against rock band NirvanaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A further 3.7 million people are now eligible for the booster shot with the gap between 2nd and 3rd doses reduced Australia suffering a lack of Rapid Antigen Test kits The world's oldest person turns 119 David Bowie's estate sells the late singer's catalogueSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

PM Scott Morrison is monitoring for Covid symptoms after a positive case attended Kirribilli house in Sydney Queenslanders must now wear masks in most indoor settings Australians accrue millions of days of annual leave Adele snaps up Rambo's mansion  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Subdued New Years Eve celebrations across Australia Price rises kick in from today for services such as toll roads and passports Legendary actress Betty White has passed away aged 99 The ATP cup begins in SydneySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's been an alarming spike in covid case numbers across New South Wales -Despite high case numbers, New Year's eve preparations are in full swing.Parts of southeast Australia are expected to swelter, as people prepare to ring in the New Year.French oyster farmers have been emptying shells and placing notes inside, in a bid to catch thieves.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sweeping new rules will change the way we respond to positive covid cases.A one-year-old South Australian baby girl has died after contracting Covid-19.A step towards justice - that’s how one of Ghislaine Maxwell’s victims has described her guilty verdict.New South Wales and Queensland are forging ahead with New Year's Eve celebrations, despite soaring Covid infections.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Prime Minister says Australia will move to a single definition of what defines a Covid-19 close contact.states are desperately trying to secure more rapid antigen tests to help ease pressure on P-C-R testing capabilities.Police have taken a man into custody in relation to the sexual assault of a child in Perth's East.A new study has found children are being bombarded by ads for alcohol, junk food and energy drinks on popular gaming platforms.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Black Jack has taken out the line honours in this year's Sydney to Hobart yacht race.Hospitality sector representatives in New South Wales and Queensland are calling for close contact rules to be relaxed.WA Police are hunting for the person who sexually assaulted a young girl in her home in Perth's north-east.A 33 year old woman has been arrested over an alcohol fuelled crash in Vicotira's Mornington peninsula- which that left a 16 year old boy in hospital. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victoria's testing crisis could be alleviated with a shift to rapid antigen testing. NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard has slammed Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk’s decision to hold off on removing “tourism testing” requirements. An explosion at a suburban shopping strip in Canberra on Monday night has destroyed several stores and sent a man to hospital. A man has been arrested after a 10-hour seige in Brisbane overnightSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Officials are warning of the dangers of waterways after two tragic drownings - including a 3 year old boy in NSW  A whopping 21 billion dollars is tipped to be spent on post Christmas sales in Australia Covid infections continue to surge around the country The Boxing Day test and the Sydney to Hobart yacht raceSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The wait between a third covid shot and the booster will be reduced from 5 to 3 months early next year Christmas travel plans in disarray after a Covid staff shortage at Melbourne and Sydney airports England flag changes to its side for the Boxing Day test  A fourth woman comes forward accusing Chris Noth of sexual assaultSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia reintroduce mask mandates. Rapid Antigen Tests go on sale in South Australia. The first batch of Pfizer's vaccines for kids has touched down in Sydney. In sport, former World number 1 and five-time Australian Open runner-up Andy Murray will return to Melbourne Park next month. And in entertainment, Ed Sheeran's "Shape of You" has become the first song to reach three-billion Spotify streams.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Covid infections surge both New South Wales and Victoria have re-introduced compulsory mask wearing Two million Australians have received the Covid booster shot The first of the six children killed in Tasmania's jumping castle tragedy has been laid to rest The N-B-L game between the Illawarra Hawks and South East Melbourne Phoenix has been postponed - due to a Covid scare  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At-home COVID-19 tests could soon be delivered to NSW homes free of charge. The police investigation into a COVID-positive teenager who partied at an Adelaide nightclub instead of isolating at home has intensified. The Victorian government is expected to confirm today if there will be any changes to mask-wearing. In sport, a crowd of 70-thousand is expected at the MCG for day one of the Boxing Day test. And in entertainment, Rebel Wilson sparks romance rumours with Aussie tennis star.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Third Booster Shot To Stay At 5-Months After The 2nd Despite Case Surge Just One Omicron Patient In ICU Aussies Urged To Brush Up On Their Consumer Rights Ahead Of Xmas And.. Novak Djokovic Still Yet To Reveal His Vaccination Status Ahead Of  Aus OpenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pressure is mounting on state and territory governments to bring back COVID restrictions, to control the spread of the OMICRON variant. Health authorities in South Australia have confirmed the Adelaide Oval is a casual exposure site following the second Ashes test. Millionaire Andrew 'Twiggy' Forrest is taking legal action against Facebook. In sport, Australia could be without Josh Hazelwood for the Boxing Day test. And in entertainment, a New York jury has resumed deliberations in the trial of Ghislaine Maxwell.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some States Ramp Up Calls For Boosters To Be Shortened To Four Months Consumer Confidence High Despite Omicron Outbreak Harmful Apps To Be Removed From Aussie Search Engines Police Investigating Theft Of One-Million Dollars Worth Of SilverSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorian health officials are pushing for tougher COVID restrictions to return while South Australia plans to make rapid antigen tests available to the general public. Rex Airlines has entered the domestic market with flights connecting Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. New research has found environmental factors play a larger role than genetics when it comes to Alzheimer's Disease. In sport, Australia has won the second Ashes test against England. And in entertainment, George and Amal Clooney spotted dining in Brisbane with Julia Roberts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three new COVID testing sites have been set up across Melbourne and another 20 will open an hour earlier as people race in to get tested before Christmas. A popular Adelaide nightclub says it will be seeking justice after a teenager continued partying at the venue for hours, despite being told he had COVID. Two adults and two children have died when a light plane crashed into waters near Brisbane. In sport, Australia heads into the final day of the second Ashes test needing just six wickets to win. And in entertainment, Kim Kardashian has reunited with Pete Davidson for a date night in New York.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Health experts are urging the New South Wales Government to reintroduce a mask mandate The mayor of London has declared a major incident, as Covid cases surge across the U-K Football legend Ron Barassi has successfully fought off Covid19  Australia remains in the box seat in the second Ashes testSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than 1 million dollars has been raised from a GoFundme page in the wake of the Jumping Castle tragedy  Mass vaccination hubs across the country will remain open into the new year to help deliver boosters England makes a shaky start to its first innings at the Adelaide Ashes test Brynne Edelsten reveals she's pregnantSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New South Wales and Victoria To Scrap 72hr Iso For International Arrivals Australia's Covid Booster Roll-Out To Stay The Same Major Investigation Into Tasmania's Jumping Castle Tragedy And Snake And Spider Numbers Soaring Thanks To Hot And Wet WeatherSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A  fifth child has died after a jumping castle tragedy at a primary school in Tasmania. More than 600 people have been forced into isolation after attending an event at Sydney's Metro Theatre last week. Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews is isolating after a Covid scare.  Melbourne United has taken out its first win of the season, beating the Sydney Kings  89 to 47. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Four Children Killed In Freak Jumping Castle Accident In Tasmania Newcastle's Covid "Patient Zero" Fined $10k For Allegedly Breaching Iso Orders Australian Economy Bouncing Back  Aussie Skipper Pat Cummins Ruled Out Of Second Ashes TestSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorians are waking to new freedoms, with restrictions easing overnight Unvaccinated customers are allowed back into non-essential retail settings.Vaccine certificates are no longer needed for real estate inspections, auctions, weddings and funerals. The mask mandate has been scrapped for weddings and funerals, they still need to worn in retail settings. The new pandemic orders came into effect at midnight when the state of emergency endedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NSW Cases Doubling Every TWO Days -- But Hospitalisations Remain Steady A Fourth Covid Booster Likely To Fend Off Omicron Former Aussie Cricketer Michael Slater Back In Court And Aussie Customers Spent 90 Million Hours On Hold To Call Centres in 18 MonthsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.