Melbourne’s airport rail link a ‘done deal’. Here’s why

President Trump has signed an executive order to dismantle the federal Education Department, criticizing it as wasteful and liberal. While Congress would need to approve the complete dismantling, Republicans plan to introduce a bill for this purpose. The department will retain essential functions like Title I funding, Pell grants, and management of federal student loans, despite ongoing cuts to its workforce and programs. Full Article

Sebastian Coe, a top contender in the IOC presidential race, suffered a major defeat as Kirsty Coventry of Zimbabwe won in the first round with 49 votes, while Coe only received eight votes. Coe graciously congratulated Coventry and expressed support for her as the newly elected IOC president, emphasizing the importance of having an athlete in the leadership role. Despite his loss, Coe vowed to assist Coventry and acknowledged the historic moment of her becoming...

In the Socceroos vs Indonesia match, Australia scored their fourth goal through Lewis Miller's header off a Craig Goodwin corner, despite Indonesia dominating possession. Indonesia's Hilgers suffered an injury, leading to a break in play, as Australia struggled with wasteful possession and Indonesian pressure. Despite Indonesia's strong fan support and near misses, Australia maintained a 3-0 lead at half-time after a penalty miss from Indonesia and goals from Martin Boyle and Nishan Velupillay. Full Article

Australia has dropped to 11th place in the global happiness ranking, with Finland retaining the top spot for the eighth year. Factors like trust, kindness, and social connection are highlighted as key predictors of wellbeing. Israel and Mexico rise in rankings, while the US and UK drop, with the US hitting its lowest-ever position at 24. Full Article

Former senior constable Beaumont Lamarre-Condon has been in custody on remand for over a year after allegedly murdering Luke Davies and Jesse Baird in Sydney. He is accused of using a NSW Police service weapon to shoot the men during a break-in at Mr Baird’s home, then hiding their bodies in surfboard bags and dumping them at a rural property. Mr Lamarre-Condon, facing charges of domestic violence-related murder and break and enter, will have a...

Ah, Tasmania unveils its new football club mascot, Rum'un, causing shock and bemusement among mainland fans. The 2-metre-tall beast, made partially from discarded school uniforms, embodies the Tasmanian spirit of cheekiness and mischievousness. Designed by school kids, Rum'un is a unique, gritty, and slightly grotesque character that will represent the Tasmania Devils AFL team in the future. Full Article