Female politicians in New South Wales are facing threats after condemning a neo-Nazi rally, while climate activists are calling for a tax on fossil fuel profits. Severe storms have also hit Queensland, causing widespread damage, and a grandmother from Gaza has been reunited with her family in Sydney after years apart. These events highlight the current social and political climate in Australia.

Political Threats Following Neo-Nazi Rally
Allegra Spender and Kellie Sloane, two female MPs from New South Wales, reported receiving death and rape threats to police after they condemned a neo-Nazi rally outside the NSW parliament. The rally, which took place last Saturday, involved approximately 60 men who were promoting antisemitic views. The New South Wales Premier stated that the government is investigating the possibility of expanding the ban on Nazi symbols. He also addressed concerns about perceived double standards in the treatment of far-right groups versus pro-Palestine activists.

Severe Weather Wreaks Havoc in Queensland
Queensland is currently experiencing severe weather, with large hailstones and thunderstorms reported across the region. The Bureau of Meteorology has issued warnings for flash floods, destructive winds, and possible tornadoes. In Esk, hailstones measuring up to 8 cm in diameter have been documented, and thousands of residents are without power. The storms have also affected parts of New South Wales, with Victoria experiencing strong winds following a particularly wet day.

Gaza Grandmother Reunited with Family
Fatma Badra, a 79-year-old grandmother from Gaza, has been reunited with her family at Sydney airport after an 11-year separation. She is among the first group of Palestinians to arrive in Australia since a ceasefire plan was initiated three weeks ago. Her son, Shamikh, an Australian citizen, had been trying to bring her to safety since late 2023. During her wait for evacuation, she lost significant weight and faced the loss of her husband, who died in November 2023.

Climate Activists Demand Fossil Fuel Tax
In Newcastle, climate activists from the group Rising Tide painted the words "Tax Me" on a coal ship as a protest against the federal government's fossil fuel policies. The activists are advocating for a 78% tax on profits from fossil fuel exports, arguing that the revenue should be used to support community and industrial transitions away from coal and other fossil fuels. This action comes amid ongoing discussions in Australian politics regarding environmental legislation.

Wrap-up
The current situation in Australia reflects a complex interplay of political unrest, severe weather challenges, personal reunions, and environmental activism. As the nation grapples with these issues, the responses from both government and community groups will be critical in shaping the future landscape.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team