Menulog has announced it will cease its Australian operations in two weeks, impacting approximately 120 employees who will receive redundancy packages. This decision comes as the company faces significant challenges in the local market. In a separate development, Russia's high court bid to build a new embassy in Canberra was rejected, but the Australian government will compensate Russia for the lease cancellation. Additionally, a Qantas flight carrying Liberal MPs was forced to return to Adelaide due to smoke in the cabin, while Australia’s intelligence agency warned of cyber threats from Chinese hackers targeting critical infrastructure. Finally, a proposal to lower speed limits on regional roads has sparked controversy among lawmakers.

Menulog Closure Announcement

Menulog has confirmed it will shut down its operations in Australia within two weeks, affecting about 120 employees. The company stated that the decision was made due to "challenging circumstances" in the local market. Employees will be offered redundancy packages as the company winds down its services. This closure reflects broader trends in the food delivery industry, where many businesses are struggling to maintain profitability.

Russian Embassy Lease Dispute

In a significant legal ruling, Australia's high court determined that the cancellation of a $2.75 million 99-year lease for a Russian embassy in Canberra was lawful. Despite the ruling, the Australian government is obligated to compensate Russia for the cancellation and cover the costs associated with the court case. This decision underscores the complexities of international relations and property rights, particularly in the context of diplomatic facilities.

Qantas Flight Incident

A group of Liberal MPs traveling to Canberra for a net zero emissions policy meeting were forced to return to Adelaide after smoke was detected in the cabin of their QantasLink flight. Senators Leah Blyth and Andrew McLachlan, along with MP Tony Pasin, were on board flight 1972 when the crew made the decision to turn back and requested assistance upon landing. No injuries were reported, but the incident caused a delay in their travel plans.

Cybersecurity Threats from Chinese Hackers

Australia's intelligence agency, ASIO, has raised alarms about cyber threats posed by Chinese hackers targeting the country's critical infrastructure. In a speech delivered in Melbourne, ASIO Director General Mike Burgess highlighted recent successful infiltrations in the United States, attributing them to hacker units known as Salt Typhoon and Volt Typhoon, which are allegedly working on behalf of the Chinese government. This revelation has heightened concerns about national security and the potential for high-impact sabotage.

Controversy Over Speed Limit Proposal

A proposal from the federal infrastructure department to lower default speed limits on regional roads from 100 km/h to between 70 and 90 km/h has met with backlash from various political factions. Some Labor MPs have joined Nationals in criticizing the policy, arguing that it could hinder travel and economic activity in rural areas. The regulatory impact analysis, part of the National Road Safety Action Plan, was open for public submissions until November 10, with individual states and territories responsible for implementing any changes.

Wrap-up

The closure of Menulog's Australian operations, the high court ruling on the Russian embassy lease, the Qantas flight incident, ASIO's warnings about cybersecurity threats, and the controversial speed limit proposal highlight a range of pressing issues facing Australia today. Each of these stories reflects the complexities of the current socio-economic landscape, impacting both local communities and international relations.

Sources: theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team