Looking for a brighter future

The pandemic is spreading at an alarming rate in developing countries, its leaders facing the now familiar juggling act of public health and the economy. But with many governments unable or unwilling to boost health services or tackle poverty, a real crisis is starting to form. Where to for the poverty stricken?

Averting the megafires

VM Bushfires Photo by Shirley Wang on Unsplash

Whatever 2020 will throw our way next, it won’t be another extreme bushfire season. That doesn’t mean there won’t be any bushfires at all, but they’re not likely to be as extensive and severe – and won’t be for the next three to five years. It’s great and very welcome news.

Tackling the elephant in the room

George Floyd’s terrible death has turned the spotlight on the treatment of our own indigenous people and on the entrenched racism that exists in Australia. We don’t want to whitesplain, nor do we want to create division or fan hatred. But we can’t stay silent either because Aboriginal Lives Matter.

Casualties of the COVID crisis

Charities are facing a fundraising crisis as the economic fallout of COVID-19 continues. A new report warns that more than 200,000 charity workers could lose their jobs and force most of Australia’s 16,000 charities into deficit if COVID-19 financial supports are not extended.

Curious case of Celeste Barber’s bushfire money

The fate of Celeste Barber’s fundraiser has been decided. The supreme court ruled the entire sum – all $51.3 million of it – is to be spent by the NSW Rural Fire Service. What does this mean for charities and could it have been handled differently?

Marking Reconciliation Week during a pandemic

Following National Sorry Day, Reconciliation Week represents a time to learn about our shared histories, cultures and achievements. It is hugely significant because it marks a time to think about relationships between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians. We have rounded up some of the best reports for you.

Late-night message from an old flatmate

Years of domestic violence inaction could not have prepared us for the dumbfounding reports that came out this week. The Senate inquiry into Hannah Clarke’s murder returned empty handed while the NSW government proposed reforms that will force DV victims to gather their own evidence. Yes, seriously.

Happy at home

You’d think that if anyone loved the lockdown, it would have been our pets. Lots of walks, cuddles and praise – not to mention the under-the-table sneaky treats since we have been cooking 21 meals a week. Well… yes and no. Read the full story here.

Moving forward from this state of affairs

There is a lot going on in the world at the moment. But among the chaos and uncertainty, a theme is emerging. Opportunities are shaping up and showing us the way forward for the planet and humanity. We wanted to share our take with you.