Australian politics live: Tony Abbott suggests UK put migrants in English channel ‘mothership’; free summer weekend transport in Victoria

In an exciting twist at the world porridge championship, Melbourne's own Caroline Velik has taken home the trophy for her innovative 'oaty jaffle,' winning the specialty dish category and securing second place overall. This victory not only highlights Velik's creativity in combining traditional porridge with a modern twist but also showcases Australia's culinary talent on a global stage. It's a delightful reminder that sometimes, thinking outside the box can lead to sweet success.

Melbourne's Metro Tunnel project has reached a significant milestone with the completion of the Town Hall and State Library train stations, joining the already finished Anzac, Arden, and Parkville stations. This development is crucial as it marks the city's progress towards launching a long-awaited rail line that promises to enhance public transport and connectivity across Melbourne. The anticipation builds as residents look forward to the official launch date, which will ultimately improve daily commutes and reduce congestion.

Thousands of people have come together for the largest environmental lawsuit in the UK, targeting livestock and water companies accused of causing significant pollution in the Wye, Lugg, and Usk rivers. This collective action highlights the growing concern over environmental issues and the need for accountability in protecting natural resources. It matters because it not only seeks justice for the affected ecosystems but also raises awareness about the importance of clean waterways for communities and wildlife.

Amos Gitai, the renowned Israeli filmmaker, emphasizes the urgent need for peace between Israelis and Palestinians as he reflects on the 30th anniversary of Yitzhak Rabin's assassination. Speaking ahead of the world premiere of his film 'Golem' at the Tokyo Film Festival, Gitai highlights the dire consequences of ongoing conflict, stating that 'peace is obligatory.' His message resonates deeply in a time of turmoil, reminding us that finding a way to coexist is essential for a better future.

In a significant development, prosecutors have revealed that Abu Agila Mas'ud Kheir al-Marimi has confessed to his involvement in the Lockerbie bombing, which tragically claimed the lives of 270 people in 1988. This confession is crucial as it brings a sense of justice to the victims' families and highlights ongoing efforts to hold accountable those responsible for such heinous acts. The acknowledgment of guilt may pave the way for further legal proceedings and closure for those affected by this devastating event.

This week, Kemi Badenoch and the Conservative Party unveiled a series of new proposals that signal a shift in their approach to governance. After previously indicating that no significant policies would emerge until 2027, the announcement marks a notable change in strategy. These proposals, which are described as far-reaching and radical, aim to address pressing issues and could reshape the party's platform ahead of future elections. This matters because it reflects the Tories' responsiveness to current political dynamics and public concerns.

In Australian politics today, Tony Abbott has made headlines by suggesting that the UK could use a 'mothership' in the English Channel to manage migrants. Meanwhile, Victoria's Premier Jacinta Allan is promoting free weekend transport as part of the much-anticipated launch of Melbourne's Metro Tunnel. This initiative is significant as it aims to improve public transport accessibility and ease congestion in the city, making it a hot topic for residents and commuters alike.

The article draws a parallel between Israel's complacency before the recent conflict and the potential risks the U.S. faces regarding Taiwan and China. It emphasizes the importance of not underestimating the threat posed by China, suggesting that just as Israel was caught off guard, the U.S. could be too. This matters because it highlights the need for vigilance and proactive measures in foreign policy to prevent a similar situation from unfolding.