Readers' Letters: Australia Day Debate, Scams & Local Concerns
Newcastle Herald readers share diverse views on Australia Day's meaning, hate speech laws, local scams, and community safety in a series of passionate letters to the editor.
Newcastle Herald readers share diverse views on Australia Day's meaning, hate speech laws, local scams, and community safety in a series of passionate letters to the editor.
Federal MP Phillip Thompson accuses the Prime Minister of a political stunt by merging gun control with hate speech laws. Read his full critique and the government's response.
A proposed crackdown on hate speech has prompted a neo-Nazi group to disband. The new laws could see jail terms of up to 10 years for hate preachers.
The Albanese government's sweeping anti-terrorism and hate speech legislation, drafted after the Bondi massacre, faces a battle for passage and potential High Court challenges. Read the analysis.
New ACT hate speech laws propose jail for inciting violence, but community leaders fear limited consultation and gaps in protecting other minorities. Read the full debate.
Federal Parliament is being recalled early to debate urgent new hate speech and gun control legislation following the Bondi massacre. Read the details and analysis.
Adelaide Writers' Week descends into chaos as director Louise Adler resigns, protesting the board's decision to cancel Palestinian-Australian author Randa Abdel-Fattah. Over 100 authors have now withdrawn.
A Canberra pro-Palestine rally in Garema Place turned confrontational when a man allegedly tore down a banner. Police issued move-on orders as organisers cite safety concerns. Read the full report.
Federal Parliament is being recalled early to discuss proposed new hate speech laws. Get the latest details on the debate and potential impacts.
Federal Parliament will reconvene on January 19 to debate new hate speech and gun laws. WA Labor Ministers defend the timing of the Bondi attack royal commission announcement.
Victoria Park Council swiftly removed 'hateful' graffiti in Welshpool. Mayor Karen Vernon condemns the act, reaffirming the town's commitment to inclusion and diversity. Report urgent issues directly to council.
Federal MPs will return early to debate Australia's 'toughest ever' hate laws, targeting radicalisation and visa cancellations, following the Bondi terror attack. Read the latest.
ASICS is giving away 250 pairs of its new Gel-Nimbus 28 running shoes for free in Sydney's Centennial Park. Runners can swap their old shoes and test them with elite athletes.
The Adelaide Festival board's decision to cancel a Palestinian writer's event ignites a fierce debate on censorship, free speech, and artistic integrity in Australia's cultural scene. Read the full story.
Townsville's Mark 'Thommo' Thompson, a cancer survivor, has raised over $50,000 for research by completing the epic Mystery Box Rally. His story inspires community support for vital cancer research. Read his incredible journey.
A South Australian tourist park's decision to rebrand as an adults-only 'peaceful sanctuary' has ignited fierce online discussion. Discover why owners made the switch and the growing trend for child-free travel.
Brisbane Lions coach Chris Fagan hopes Lachie Neale stays but will bless a move to WA to be near his kids. The Brownlow medallist stepped down as co-captain in January. Get the latest AFL news.
The cult-favourite Olaplex No. 4 Bond Maintenance Shampoo is now 22% off on Amazon Australia. Discover why this bond-repairing staple is a non-negotiable for Aussie haircare routines. Grab the deal while it lasts!
Celebrate Australia Day 2026 with free family entertainment at Coogee Beach. Enjoy live music, cultural performances, wildlife encounters, and classic Aussie competitions.
As other nations adopt free school lunches to fight food insecurity and boost learning, Australia remains without a national program. Could this change?
Australians now have free, round-the-clock access to trusted health advice via 1800MEDICARE. The service connects callers to a registered nurse for non-emergency support, reducing pressure on hospitals.
WA Police issue a warning ahead of a planned unauthorised protest in Perth against the US military strike in Venezuela. Organisers have not sought a permit for the CBD rally.
Readers blast Coalition MPs for campaigning to weaken hate speech laws while criticising Albanese on anti-Semitism. Plus, Gaza editorial, ACT debt, and fireworks debate.
Pomona, a new South American-inspired restaurant, brings a sophisticated, gluten-free dining option to the Gili Islands. Read our first taste review.
Australians are focusing on hair health in 2026. Discover how Sozo Australia's all-natural, Gold Coast-made haircare bundle tackles damage and promotes growth without harsh chemicals.
Australian basketball legend Patty Mills discusses life as a new dad in Hawaii and reveals he hasn't ruled out a return to the NBA. The five-time Olympian remains a free agent.
Western Australian gold miners and a lithium revival led the ASX in 2025, with some stocks tripling in value. Discover the top performers and what drove the market.
The ASX200 closed 2025 up 6.8% despite a global rollercoaster. Discover how gold miners soared, Trump's tariffs rattled markets, and AI hype fuels the 2026 outlook.
Newcastle police are investigating white nationalist flyers dropped in letterboxes. MP Tim Crakanthorp condemns the act, urging residents to report. Full details.
The premium Roborock Qrevo L robot vacuum and mop has seen a massive 59% price drop on Amazon Australia, now $699. Discover its powerful hands-free cleaning features and smart navigation.