Queensland's parliament has voted to repeal its legislated renewable energy targets, a move criticized as "plain stupidity" by environmental advocates. This decision coincides with alarming reports of a significant rise in Indigenous deaths in custody, reaching a 45-year high. In the backdrop of these events, a new social media ban has been implemented, and students across Victoria have received their ATAR results, marking a pivotal moment in their educational journeys.

Queensland's Renewable Energy Repeal
On Thursday, the Queensland parliament voted to eliminate its renewable energy targets, a decision that has ignited backlash from environmental groups and independent senator Lidia Thorpe. Thorpe emphasized that the federal government must take more responsibility for addressing Indigenous deaths in custody, criticizing the ongoing "handballing" of the issue to state and territory governments. She called for national oversight and the implementation of recommendations from a royal commission dating back to 1991.

Indigenous Deaths in Custody
A recent report revealed that more Indigenous people died in custody last year than in any year since 1980. Thorpe expressed her frustration, stating that there is a lack of political will at the federal level to address these issues, which she believes are often exploited for political gain as elections approach. The widow of a Noongar man who died in a maximum-security prison also lamented that "nothing has changed" for Aboriginal people since her husband's death.

Political Travel Entitlements Under Scrutiny
In other political news, it has been revealed that ministers and senior politicians in Australia have "unlimited" travel entitlements for their spouses, according to parliamentary guidelines. This revelation has sparked outrage among the public, particularly in light of the rising costs of living and economic challenges faced by many Australians. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the travel regulations amid growing scrutiny.

Students Celebrate VCE Results
On a more positive note, students in Victoria celebrated their VCE results on Thursday. Among them was Ethan Bundle-Bell, who became the first in his family to complete Year 12. Just two years ago, he contemplated dropping out, but he has now achieved this significant milestone, expressing his disbelief and pride in his accomplishment.

Interest Rates Cause Market Fluctuations
In financial news, the Reserve Bank of Australia's decision to maintain the cash rate at 3.6% has sent markets into a frenzy. Governor Michele Bullock's recent statements suggested that rate cuts may not be forthcoming, contrary to previous market predictions. This uncertainty has left investors on edge, as they navigate the implications of the bank's monetary policy.

Wrap-up
Queensland's repeal of renewable energy targets, the alarming increase in Indigenous deaths in custody, and the scrutiny of political travel expenses highlight significant issues facing Australia. Meanwhile, students achieving academic milestones and the Reserve Bank's monetary policy decisions reflect ongoing societal shifts and challenges.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team