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Grace Tame delivers snide dig amid ScoMo’s cabinet drama

<p dir="ltr">Amid the news that Scott Morrison reportedly gave himself powers to run three government portfolios, activist Grace Tame has joined in with a scathing hot-take of her own.</p> <p><span id="docs-internal-guid-3a8e4b21-7fff-e8dc-7a3f-2096b881246e"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">“You see now, we had to stop him from swearing himself in as Australian of the Year 2022,” the 27-year-old tweeted, sharing the infamous photo of herself with the former Prime Minister when she met him at the Lodge at the start of the year.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">you see now, we had to stop him from swearing himself in as Australian of the Year for 2022 <a href="https://t.co/qlWsxyHi4f">pic.twitter.com/qlWsxyHi4f</a></p> <p>— Grace Tame (@TamePunk) <a href="https://twitter.com/TamePunk/status/1559022544518545408?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">Many were quick to praise Tame and jump in on the fun, joking that Mr Morrison made himself the ‘minister for side-eyeing’ and the minister for women.</p> <p dir="ltr">“You had him figured from the start Grace,” New England MP Tony Windsor commented.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Who didn't know that he was a risky choice from day one? He is a friend of Harvey Norman for God’s sake,” another wrote.</p> <p dir="ltr">Tame’s jab comes after the current Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, announced that the government would investigate claims that Mr Morrison secretly appointed himself as the minister for health, finance, and resources during the pandemic.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Albanese said the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet is seeking legal advice from the solicitor-general in the wake of the claims, published by <em><a href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/subscribe/news/1/?sourceCode=TAWEB_WRE170_a_GGL&amp;dest=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.theaustralian.com.au%2Fnation%2Fpolitics%2Fscott-morrison-appointed-by-gg-to-take-control-of-department-of-industry-science-energy-and-resources-11months-before-he-scuttled-offshore-gas-project%2Fnews-story%2F38338e07f09df91fa68409cde43e013c&amp;memtype=anonymous&amp;mode=premium&amp;v21=dynamic-low-test-score&amp;V21spcbehaviour=append" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Australian</a></em> and <a href="https://www.news.com.au/national/politics/scott-morrison-shocked-minister-by-secretly-swearing-himself-into-cabinet-portfolio/news-story/ac7505f1648a335ccd01f88faf881086" target="_blank" rel="noopener">news.com.au</a>’s coverage of <em>Plagued</em>, a new book from political journalists Simon Bensen and Geoff Chambers.</p> <p dir="ltr">Governor-General David Hurley confirmed that he secretly signed instruments to allow Mr Morrison to administer the portfolios, “consistent with section 64 of the constitution”.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Hurley said it wasn’t uncommon for ministers to be appointed to other departments, but that the decision to publicise it “is a matter for the government of the day”.</p> <p dir="ltr">The <em><a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2022-08-15/scott-morrison-secret-ministry-appointments-to-be-investigated/101332916" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ABC</a></em> reported that then-Health Minister Greg Hunt was aware of Mr Morrison’s joint position and agreed to it as a safeguard in case he was struck down by COVID-19, but that Matthias Cormann, the former Finance Minister, wasn’t told the Prime Minister had appointed himself as joint finance minister.</p> <p dir="ltr">Keith Pitt, the former Resources Minister, told the ABC that Mr Morrison used his self-appointment to the resources portfolio to stop a controversial gas drilling project on the NSW south coast.</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Albanese said the revelations were “extraordinary” and “just weird”.</p> <p dir="ltr">“The people of Australia were kept in the dark as to what the ministerial arrangements were, it’s completely unacceptable,” he said on Monday.</p> <p dir="ltr">“This is very contrary to our Westminster system. It was cynical and it was just weird that this has occurred.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Mr Albanese said the allegations were serious, and that they might explain the controversial rollout of COVID-19 vaccines at the height of the pandemic.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Perhaps this explains why we didn’t order enough vaccines. I mean, the Minister for Health might have thought the Prime Minister was ordering them because he was also the Minister for Health, and he thought the Minister for Health was ordering them,” Mr Albanese said.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-08221e9c-7fff-1108-2d88-b20a69ab6b52"></span></p> <p dir="ltr">According to <em>Sky News</em>, Mr Morrison has declined to comment on the accusations, claiming he hasn’t “engaged in any day to day politics” since his election loss in May.</p> <blockquote class="twitter-tweet"> <p dir="ltr" lang="en">.<a href="https://twitter.com/Kieran_Gilbert?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Kieran_Gilbert</a> asked former Prime Minister Scott Morrison whether he wished to respond to today's revelations &amp; PM Albanese.</p> <p>Mr Morrison said -- "No, haven’t seen what he has said. Since leaving the job I haven’t engaged in any day to day politics". <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyNewsAust?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkyNewsAust</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/auspol?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#auspol</a></p> <p>— Cam Reddin (@CamReddin) <a href="https://twitter.com/CamReddin/status/1559032433529393152?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2022</a></p></blockquote> <p dir="ltr">“No, haven’t seen what [Mr Albanese] has said,” Mr Morrison told <em>Sky News</em> reporter Kieran Gilbert.</p> <p dir="ltr">“Since leaving the job I haven’t engaged in any day to day politics.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Meanwhile, <em>AAP </em>New Zealand correspondent Ben McKay confirmed that New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern hasn’t engaged in similar behaviour.</p> <p dir="ltr"><span id="docs-internal-guid-71694b42-7fff-2cab-c1ad-4affe41c2401">“Thought best to double check. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says she has never secretly sworn herself into other ministeries,” he <a href="https://twitter.com/benmackey/status/1559025854914895872" target="_blank" rel="noopener">tweeted</a>.</span></p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Twitter</em></p>

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How to organise kitchen cabinets, according to the pros

<p>Learning how to organise kitchen cabinets is an essential kitchen skill, and these organisation tips from the pros ensure you’re getting the most out of your space. When you start practising smart ways to clean and organise your cupboards, you’ll be amazed at how much space is created in the process.</p> <p>From pots and pans organisation to kitchen storage ideas for all home sizes, you’ll wish you knew these priceless organising tricks sooner!</p> <p><strong>How to organise kitchen cabinets</strong></p> <p>“One of the easiest ways to organise kitchen cabinets is to edit them often,” suggests home organiser, Britnee Tanner, who suggests pulling everything out and starting fresh. “Nothing helps eliminate clutter quite like going through every nook and cranny to expose the food, appliances and random kitchen gadgets that you never use or forgot you had.”</p> <p>Tanner also tells her clients to create organisational zones that make finding tools and ingredients quick and easy. It’s one of her favourite pantry organisation ideas too. “It’s ideal to create zones for each kitchen cabinet so you can easily find what you’re looking for when you need it. This means having a cabinet or specific shelf in a cabinet dedicated to one type of category such as snacks, baking supplies and dinnerware.”</p> <p>Julie Harris, organisation expert, emphasises keeping cabinet zones practical. “Use cabinets under the kitchen sink for cleaning products, dishwasher detergent, extra dish towels and sponges. Large, heavy appliances like standing mixers, slow cookers and air fryers belong in a lower cabinet. If it’s only used occasionally, put it in the back of the cabinet.”</p> <p><strong>Cabinet organisation tools</strong></p> <p>These genius kitchen organisers make cabinet organisation easier than ever.</p> <p><strong>Swedish dishcloths:</strong> you’ll want a high-quality, reusable cloth to wipe down your cabinets before putting items back in. These dishcloths can be used, washed and reused hundreds of times.</p> <p><strong>Lazy Susan:</strong> invest in a few affordable turntables to keep spices, condiments and other musts-haves within reach. Lady Susans are easy to clean and keeps food and cleaning supplies within sight. They are inexpensive, so grabbing a few of these turntables won’t break the bank.</p> <p><strong>Under the sink organiser:</strong> keeping cleaning supplies tidy beneath your sink is a must. An expandable organiser fits most lower cabinets, and it even stretches around pesky pipes.</p> <p><strong>Adjustable drawer dividers:</strong> keep cutlery and cooking utensils clutter-free with adjustable dividers. Kitchen drawer organisers are some of the most important clutter-killers out there, and they’re especially important for busy households.</p> <p><strong>Pots and pans organiser:</strong> finding a home for your best cookware is a feat of its own, especially if you’re short on cabinet space or have awkwardly-shaped cabinets. A pots and pan organising rack keeps cookware clutter-free.</p> <p><strong>Take inventory</strong></p> <p>Pull everything out of your cabinets and take inventory of what’s in-stock, expired or broken.</p> <p>Throw out expired and broken goods and consider donating excess items.</p> <p>Wipe down cabinet doors, shelves and back walls. Optional: consider adjusting your shelf heights to accommodate large kitchen appliances.</p> <p><strong>Organise lower cupboards and shelves</strong></p> <p>Arrange cleaning supplies in the cupboard below your sink with an under the sink organiser or turntable.</p> <p>Place cleaning supplies like sponges, dishcloths and extra dish soaps on the turntable or organiser of your choice.</p> <p>Dedicate a second lower cupboard for most-used benchtop appliances. “Air fryers belong in a lower cabinet,” says Harris. She advises that seldom-used appliances should be stored towards the back while frequently-used appliances deserve front row access. Reserve a third lower cupboard for infrequently-used cookware. “Store pots and pans in a cabinet next to the stove,” adds Harris. “Stack pots and pans to save space or lay them on their side using a pots and pans organiser. Store lids together.”</p> <p><strong>Dedicate space for spices</strong></p> <p>Take stock of spices and seasonings and see what blends can be combined. Chances are you have a few garlic powders that could be consolidated in one spice container.</p> <p>Find a spice organiser solution and assemble spices accordingly. We recommend dedicating a drawer or cabinet (doesn’t need to big) for spices and adding a multi-tiered drawer or cabinet insert. If you’re working with less space, a turntable is also a quick (and affordable) fix.</p> <p><strong>Organise drawers</strong></p> <p>Use adjustable drawer dividers to create space for everyday cutlery like forks, knives and spoons.</p> <p>Reserve a separate drawer for serve ware, cooking utensils and handheld kitchen gadgets. These shouldn’t co-mingle with everyday cutlery – it’s clutter waiting to happen.</p> <p>Clean out the junk drawer. (We know you have one.) Organise what’s in the junk drawer into categories and determine if there’s a better place for some of the items. One junk drawer is OK, but it shouldn’t be so cluttered that you can’t find anything in it.</p> <p>Pro tip: if you’re short on drawer space, cooking utensils and serve ware can live on the countertop in a ceramic or metal container.</p> <p><strong>Arrange upper cabinets</strong></p> <p>The upper cabinets are your final frontier. These are the cabinets that are used the most, so it’s important to put extra love and care into them.</p> <p>“Place all coffee items (mugs, coffee containers and pods) in a cabinet near the coffee maker,” adds Harris. “Keeping these items in one location facilitates a smooth morning routine.” If you have extra space in that cabinet, you can add teas, sweeteners and flavoured syrups.</p> <p>Dedicate a cabinet to plates and bowls and a separate cabinet for drinkware. “I recommend nesting plates and bowls to save space wherever possible,” says Tanner. “I also recommend utilising upper cabinet shelves or deep pull-out drawers for items like plates, cups and bowls. If you have tall cabinets with more vertical space, consider adding a compact kitchen organiser that adds shelf space as it maximises the vertical area and creates the perfect spot for storing plates below and things like bowls or cups on top of it.”</p> <p><strong>How do you decide where to put things in kitchen cabinets?</strong></p> <p>Tanner and Harris agree that creating workstations or zones is the best way to organise kitchen cabinets. Coffee products should be in an upper cabinet near the coffee maker; sponges and cleaning supplies belong under the kitchen sink; and your most-used pots and pans deserve a spot near the stove, preferably in a lower cabinet.</p> <p><strong>How do you organise corner cabinets?</strong></p> <p>Corner cabinets are a prime opportunity to use turntables. They’re ideal for storing smaller items like spices, oils and vinegars. Look into kitchen organisation tools that are designed for tricky spaces to make the most of awkward spaces.</p> <p><strong>How do you organise deep kitchen cabinets?</strong></p> <p>Harris suggests placing infrequently-used and large, heavy items toward the back of deep cabinets. For example, if you only use your panini press a few times a year, it should be stored in the back. This system works for even the most unique kitchen cabinets.</p> <p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p> <p>Learning how to organise kitchen cabinets is daunting, but it’s a life-changing task that’s guaranteed to clear clutter and lighten the load. Just remember to edit out expired or unused pantry and kitchen items every few months. You’ll be a kitchen cabinet organising pro in no time!</p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/how-to-organise-kitchen-cabinets-according-to-the-pros?pages=1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Reader's Digest</a>.</em></p>

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Instantly organise your medicine cabinet in a few simple steps

<p><strong>Bathroom organisation hacks</strong></p> <p>Closets, drawers, kitchen cabinets: your home organisation project might focus on these big basics – but, especially considering the times we’re in, your medicine cabinet is a smaller nook-and-cranny that deserves to be meticulously on-point these days.</p> <p>With advice from an infectious disease doctor and a professional organiser, we’ve got your step-by-step medicine cabinet makeover. This organisation process will empower you with streamlined mornings, immune support, and Covid-preventive essentials – and for those unpleasant occasions that creep up, like the common sniffles or sleepless nights.</p> <p>Reset your bathroom game by following this plan that’s loaded with pro tips.</p> <p><strong>Clean and sanitise</strong></p> <p>A good wipedown with warm water and a rag will get off visible goo… but it’s important to follow it up by sanitising every surface, inside and out, advises Dr Margaret Khoury, an infectious disease specialist. Keep in mind that the warm, moist environment of the bathroom is germ heaven, and pathogens can even grow on soap and other hygiene products. Yeah, ew.</p> <p>Pick a product that kills viruses, bacteria and fungi, and follow the directions on the label. Antibacterial products don’t work against viruses, and even cleaners that claim to kill most germs can miss COVID-19. So when choosing cleaning products, like wipes or sprays, go with a<span> </span><a href="https://www.tga.gov.au/disinfectants-use-against-covid-19-artg-legal-supply-australia">TGA-registered disinfectant</a>.</p> <p>Be sure to take out everything (yes, every single thing – bottles, makeup containers and the shelves they sat on) and wipe all of it down. Don’t forget to clean the knob or handle! Think of every surface fingers touch, and go there with that cleaner.</p> <p><strong>Toss like a boss</strong></p> <p>An easy next step is to throw away any expired over-the-counter meds and dried-out makeup. (That beloved eye shadow compact you’ve used since university? Zero judgment – but it’s time to throw it out, stat.)</p> <p>Toss used-up, broken, or non-functional items. It’s OK to purge ruthlessly – you have limited space there, so only necessary items can stay. “If you don’t love it or use it, lose it,” says Rachel Rosenthal, a professional organiser.</p> <p><strong>Supplies to fight COVID-19</strong></p> <p>Got a supply of at-home rapid Covid test kits? Bonus points for being proactive! Don’t store them in your medicine cabinet, nor in your bathroom at all. The CDC recommends storing self-administered Covid tests in their unopened box in a cool, dry place. Improper storage or exposure to heat or moisture can make the test malfunction.</p> <p>Help prevent Covid-19 by stocking up on alcohol prep pads or a fresh bottle of rubbing alcohol and cotton pads. Then, keep the whole house healthier by using these regularly to clean high-touch surfaces like kitchen cabinet knobs, your microwave’s buttons, door knobs around the house, your phone and keyboard, keys and more.</p> <p><strong>Prioritise your shelves</strong></p> <p>Ready to sort out what goes where? Rosenthal says you should start by assigning each category its own shelf and try to keep all the items in that group together within that designated space. You may want to label each shelf with a piece of tape or a sticky note to help you and your family put things away properly going forward.</p> <p>Keep the items you use every day in easy reach on one of the lowermost shelves. If you’re not using an item at least once a week, move it to a longer-term storage space.</p> <p>Have kiddos? Rosenthal suggests: “If you have little ones, dedicate the bottom shelf to keep their items where they can easily reach them and grab what they need.”</p> <p><strong>Safety first</strong></p> <p>The medicine cabinet is a common place to put medications, sharp objects like razors and needles and toxic cleaners, so safety should be a top consideration in your organisation, says Dr Khoury. If you have children that use the medicine cabinet, this is the perfect time to take inventory and remove all unsafe items and put them well out of their reach. (Don’t forget: Kids will climb onto benchtops!)</p> <p>Put sharp objects in closed containers so you don’t accidentally hurt yourself. Toxic cleaners should be stored in tightly sealed unbreakable containers, so even if they fall, they won’t break open and spill.</p> <p><strong>Move your meds to a smarter spot</strong></p> <p>Oh, the irony: Turns out, the medicine cabinet is actually one of the worst places to store prescription and over-the-counter drugs, says Gina Harper, PharmD, BCPS. “Moisture, temperature, oxygen and light – all things found in bathrooms – can degrade medications faster than normal,” this pharmacist explains.</p> <p>Unless the packaging indicates otherwise, most medicine should be stored at cool room temperature, in a dry, dark place, and in the original package… so, not in your bathroom. This is true for many skin care products, vitamins and supplements as well.</p> <p>Note: If you really want to keep your meds in your bathroom, consider buying a small medicine fridge for your counter. This allows you to control the temperature, humidity and exposure to light and air.</p> <p><strong>Do not toss expired prescription drugs</strong></p> <p>Throwing prescribed medications in the garbage can help someone searching for narcotics get their hands on them. Flushing them down the toilet? Also not a wise option – this can pollute the water supply. Your best bet is to take them to your local community pharmacy participating in the Return Unwanted Medicines (RUM) scheme.</p> <p>If for any reason you have to throw medicine away, it’s suggested you should “ruin” the drugs by mixing them with coffee grounds or kitty litter in a sealed plastic bag.</p> <p><strong>Store big items first</strong></p> <p>Ideally, your cabinet has adjustable shelves to allow your tallest or bulkiest essentials to fit within easy reach, like toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, or large ointment bottles. Then you can see just how much space you have to work with for the rest of your stuff.</p> <p>If something takes up too much room and it’s not an item you access daily, it might be better stored in a cupboard elsewhere.</p> <p><strong>Next, insert your lesser-used items</strong></p> <p>Prioritise by setting the things you use the most toward the front of your medicine cabinet, on the shelves that are the easiest to see and access, says Rosenthal.</p> <p>Place lesser-used items in the back or corners. If you’re not using an item at least once a week, move it to a longer-term storage space, like a cupboard or a box under your sink.</p> <p>Employ this system for the remainder of your items, discerning how prominently and accessibly each one should be placed based on how often you use it. Rosenthal says just remember: Your goal is to keep it safe, clean, and functional.</p> <p><strong>Don't lose loose items</strong></p> <p><span>Stray cotton buds or lip balm tubes adding to the clutter? Put them in a clear glass container. They’ll fit the vertical space better, and you’ll be able to see exactly what’s inside.</span></p> <p><strong>Try magnetic strips for metal trinkets</strong></p> <p><span>What do nail clippers, tweezers and hair clips have in common? They all stick to magnets! Put a magnetic strip on the back of the cabinet door or behind the shelves, and never think twice about where those small tools might be hiding.</span></p> <p><strong>Don't ignore the door</strong></p> <p><span>Your cabinet door is prime storage real estate that often goes untouched, but there are a number of ways you can customise it for your storage needs. Stick on hooks to hold small scissors or plastic pockets to hold makeup supplies, for example. There also are a number of DIY storage solutions that help you use hidden nooks around your shower, sink, and cabinets too.</span></p> <p><strong>Watch what rolls</strong></p> <p><span>Nothing sticks a landing squarely on the foot like a runaway rolling object the second the cabinet door opens. Invest in some mini shelves (also called vertical risers) to keep objects in place and maximise your storage space.</span></p> <p><strong>Label, label, label</strong></p> <p>Small bins are perfect for makeup and toiletries, but not all of them are see-through. Create your own colourful labels to stay organised in style. These easy tricks will also instantly organise other small areas of your home.</p> <p>One tip? Forget Instagram – make a real-life plan. “Getting organised does not mean that you have to invent a complex colour-coded system or invest in a million matching bins,” Rosenthal says. “The goal is to create a place for everything in a way that complements how your life operates.”</p> <p>For instance, if you normally toss your toothbrush in the bottom of the medicine cabinet, add a small open box there to keep it contained with the toothpaste and floss. You’re not going to magically transform your movements throughout the day – so plan for what you actually do, not what you wish you’d do (or what someone on social media claims to do), she says.</p> <p>Gotta love real talk.</p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Written by Claire Nowak and Charlotte Hilton Anderson. This article first appeared in </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.readersdigest.com.au/food-home-garden/home-tips/instantly-organise-your-medicine-cabinet-in-a-few-simple-steps" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Reader’s Digest</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">. For more of what you love from the world’s best-loved magazine, </span><a rel="noopener" href="http://readersdigest.innovations.com.au/c/readersdigestemailsubscribe?utm_source=over60&amp;utm_medium=articles&amp;utm_campaign=RDSUB&amp;keycode=WRA87V" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">here’s our best subscription offer.</span></a></em></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Getty Images</span></em></p> <p><img style="width: 100px !important; height: 100px !important;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7820640/1.png" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/f30947086c8e47b89cb076eb5bb9b3e2" /></p>

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"Stay calm, get your booster": PM delivers results of emergency cabinet meeting

<p><em>Image: 9 News</em></p><p>Prime Minister Scott Morrison has strongly urged Australians to wear masks in indoor public settings as part of a suite of new measures to tackle rising COVID cases across the nation.</p><p><br />Mr Morrison gathered with state and territory leaders from noon on Wednesday as part of an emergency national cabinet meeting to discuss the growing Omicron threat.</p><p>Previously, national cabinet was not scheduled to meet until February 2022, but rising Covid-19 cases, particularly in NSW, prompted the Prime Minister to call a snap meeting.</p><p>The meeting was held virtually, with booster vaccinations and the reintroduction of key restrictions, such as masks, the main topics of discussion.<br />Following the meeting, Morrison said they “had a positive meeting” and that they are taking Omicron very seriously.</p><p>Mr Morrison also said that mask wearing in indoor spaces was highly recommended.</p><p>"Whether it's mandated or not, that's what we should be doing," he said.</p><p>He further encouraged Australians to move gatherings outdoors where possible.</p><p>"People following common sense behaviours is very important."</p><p>Mr Morrison said classification of COVID-19 contacts would be standardised between the states and territories.</p><p>"We must have a common definition, right across the country, of what is a casual contact, and what are the implications of being a casual contact," he said.</p><p>"We cannot have different rules in different places."</p><p>He said experts would make a recommendation on the definition of "close contacts" and "casual contacts" in the next fortnight.</p><p>The Prime Minister said it was not realistic to use QR codes to completely track COVID-19 outbreaks in areas with high case numbers.</p><p>Chief Medical Officer Professor Paul Kelly then said that Australia had not seen a rise in hospitalisations due to Omicron, despite the large increase in case numbers occurring around the country.<br />He went on to say that there is no doubt that Omicron is replacing Delta in NSW.</p><p>The Prime Minister also announced a major change to the booster program as the health system struggles to rollout Australians third doses.</p><p>Mr Morrison on Wednesday declared that General Practitioners and Pharmacists would receive $10 extra from the federal government for administering the booster shot.</p><p>“I can announce that I have advised the premiers and chief ministers today that we will be increasing the payments to GPs and pharmacists,” he said.</p><p>“We'll be increasing them up by $10 a jab.”</p><p>Pharmacists are now expected be reimbursed around $26-29 per jab while GPs will received $27-$50.</p><p>On the issue of wait times at testing sites, Mr Morrison said it was being considered whether PCR tests would be needed for interstate travellers who had no symptoms, or if rapid tests could be adequate.<br />Mr Morrison also said the Doherty Institute would be doing further research, while the National Cabinet would reconvene in a fortnight.</p><p><br />"My main message is to stay calm, get your booster, follow the common-sense behavioural measures."<br />He said it had been agreed Australia was not going back to lockdowns and that Australia was arguably one of the best placed countries in the world to deal with Omicron.</p>

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Emergency National Cabinet Meeting called

<p dir="ltr">Scott Morrison will meet with state and territory leaders this week for an emergency National Cabinet meeting amid rising COVID-19 cases across the country.</p> <p dir="ltr">National Cabinet was not scheduled to reconvene until early next year, but increasing COVID-19 cases and the risk posed by the Omicron variant have necessitated a meeting just days before Christmas.</p> <p dir="ltr">Morrison said that state leaders needed to fine tune their approaches to Omicron as more information comes to light about the variant, but he urged them not to reintroduce travel restrictions ahead of Christmas.</p> <p dir="ltr">Speaking to reporters in Brisbane on Monday, Morrison said,</p> <p dir="ltr">“We would urge (state and territory leaders) be calm, and consistent messages be given about travel arrangements and the requirements.</p> <p dir="ltr">“When we last met, we made some decisions, and it’s a good opportunity to update on all of that before Christmas.”</p> <p dir="ltr">Experts are warning of a surge in cases during the holiday period due to interstate travel and large gatherings. On Monday, NSW recorded 2501 new cases, and Victoria 1302. South Australia recorded 105, Queensland 59, the ACT 13, Tasmania three, and the Northern Territory also recorded three new infections.</p> <p dir="ltr">Deputy Labor leader Richard Marles accused the Morrison government of letting Australia lag behind other countries when it came to booster shots, saying, Scott Morrison has stuffed up the rollout of the vaccine initially this year, now we’re seeing it happen again with the booster.”</p> <p dir="ltr">The Prime Minister assured the public that there were enough boosters to meet demand, with up to four million people becoming eligible for a booster before the end of the year as a result of the reduction in the length of time between second and third doses of the vaccine. Morrison said, “There was some pressure, but that’s been overcome now and people will be able to get on and [get their booster] over the course of the summer break.”</p> <p dir="ltr">At the cabinet meeting, NSW and Victoria will push for the interval to be reduced even further, to four months instead of five. NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard and his Victorian counterpart Martin Foley have written to federal Health Minister Greg Hunt ahead of the meeting to request that the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation make “specific determinations” for both states to have a fast-tracked booster program ahead of the holiday period. In addition, ATAGI will consider whether Australians will need to have received the booster in order to be considered fully vaccinated.</p> <p dir="ltr">While states like Tasmania are making masks in indoor spaces mandatory from Tuesday, NSW is resisting calls to reintroduce such laws, with Premier Dominic Perrottet calling the matter one of “personal responsibility”.</p> <p dir="ltr"><em>Image: Mark Evans/Getty Images</em></p>

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Health update from Cabinet Minister diagnosed with Bell’s palsy

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">NSW Customer Services Minister Victor Dominello has shared a health update, following his shock diagnosis with Bell’s palsy.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">After </span><a rel="noopener" href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/health/caring/alert-viewers-spot-cabinet-minister-s-serious-health-condition-on-live-tv" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: 400;">eagle-eyed viewers</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> noticed Mr Dominello’s “droopy eye” at a NSW press conference, the minister sought medical attention and was quickly diagnosed with the condition.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On Monday, Mr Dominello thanked well-wishers and those who reached out to share their own experience with the condition, as well as an update on his treatment.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I am on medication and feeling very fortunate that the community brought the seriousness of the situation to my attention,” he wrote on LinkedIn.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Also given the feedback received from many people with lived experience - I am also having acupuncture.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I am hoping to make a quick recovery.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The minister shared a photo of himself with an eyepatch on, despite his right eye appearing to droop during the press conference, with a note explaining why.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 0px; height:0px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843363/1629668721269.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/a29ab3a03f7f4d3abc3b69618ded966e" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Victor Dominello / LinkedIn</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“PPS: the patch is on my right eye - as that is the side of my face that has been frozen,” he explained.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“The patch stops the eye from getting infected until I can start blinking with it again.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The update comes after he announced his hospital visit and diagnosis with Bell’s Palsy following the press conference.</span></p> <p><img style="width: 500px; height:281.18908382066274px;" src="https://oversixtydev.blob.core.windows.net/media/7843362/nsw-cab-minister-um.jpg" alt="" data-udi="umb://media/ea13d50cca224094bb9077c985761897" /></p> <p><em><span style="font-weight: 400;">Image: Facebook</span></em></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Some people thought I was winking at the cameraman. Some thought I had a stroke,” he said at the time.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“I have actually been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy.”</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Bell’s palsy is a condition caused by damage to the facial nerve, resulting in sudden facial muscle weakness or paralysis that worsens over 48 hours.</span></p>

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Alert viewers spot Cabinet Minister's serious health condition on live TV

<p>NSW Cabinet Minister Victor Dominello made an urgent discovery about his own health after a number of concerned viewers alerted him to a major issue.</p> <p>The viewers noticed his "droopy eye" during the NSW State COVID-19 press conference on Wednesday so the Customer Service Minister sought medical advice and was diagnosed with Bell's palsy on Wednesday afternoon.</p> <p>The minister later posted on his Facebook account, saying he’d received this diagnosis at the Royal North Shore Hospital. Bell's palsy is a condition which causes a sudden weakness or paralysis in one side of the face.</p> <p>“At this morning’s press conference, a number of people commented on my droopy eye,” he wrote in his post.</p> <p>“Some people thought I was winking at the cameraman. Some thought I had a stroke.</p> <p><strong>“I have actually been diagnosed with Bell’s palsy.”</strong></p> <p>Minister Dominello continued in his post: “About 48 hours ago - I felt a pain in my skull behind my right ear. This morning I woke up with pins and needles on the right side of my tongue. But I did not notice any droopiness around my eye.</p> <p>I only took it more seriously this afternoon - after a number of people sent me a screenshot of the press conference and others contacted my office prompting me to seek urgent medical advice.</p> <p>Thanks to everyone who reached out .</p> <p>The reason I am posting is because hopefully it will remind people to look after their health.</p> <p>We are focussed on Covid but there are plenty of other health problems going on.</p> <p>If you have any health concerns - please get them looked after.</p> <p>Ps - thanks to staff at Royal North Shore - we are blessed to live in a country with this health system ”</p> <p>Bell’s Palsy is caused by inflammation or damage to the facial nerve which are thought to be linked to viral infections. It can be treated with oral steroids or antiviral medicine with complete recovery usually taking several months.</p> <p>Other symptoms include difficulty making facial expressions, drooping of one side of the mouth, difficulty eating, drooling, pain or sensitivity on the affected side of the body. Patients can also experience headaches and loss of taste.</p> <p>Anyone who develops these symptoms should seek medical treatment immediately.</p> <p><em>Photo: Facebook</em></p>

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"I'm very pleased": Scomo announces highly anticipated cabinet changes

<div class="post_body_wrapper"> <div class="post_body"> <div class="body_text redactor-styles redactor-in"> <p>Prime Minister Scott Morrison has declared his new cabinet and ministry will have the "strongest" female representation an Australian government cabinet has ever had.</p> <p>Senator Michaelia Cash has been appointed Australia's new Attorney-General, replacing Christian Porter.</p> <p>Foreign Minister Marise Payne will also be leading the new taskforce of ministerial roles, including Women's Safety and Women's Economic Security.</p> <p>Morrison is very pleased with his latest cabinet, saying that Payne's role is the "Prime Minister for Women".</p> <p>"Getting these results for Australian women will be achieved through collaboration, it will be achieved through listening, they will be achieved by acting together," Mr Morrison said.</p> <p>"They won't be achieved by dividing Australians."</p> <p>Karen Andrews is the Minister for Home Affairs and Anne Ruston has taken on the new portfolio of Minister for Women's Safety.</p> <p>Linda Reynolds, who was slammed by the public for calling Brittany Higgins "a lying cow", has been demoted from her position as the Minister for Defence, with her role being taken over by Peter Dutton.</p> <p>She will remain in Cabinet, but will transition in a role in NDIS and government services.</p> <p>Morrison said that he spoke to Reynolds before the cabinet shuffle.</p> <p>"She has recovered extremely well," he said.</p> <p>"She is in good health and I know she will do an outstanding job in this area."</p> <p>Despite Christian Porter being replaced in his role as Attorney-General, he's moving into Industry, Science and Technology and will continue to serve in the cabinet despite his demotion.</p> <p>"I certainly expect him to continue to serve in my cabinet - both now and after the next election," he said.</p> <p>"He's been an outstanding minister and a person of great capability."</p> <p>Morrison said that the re-shuffle was about "getting the right perspective" in wake of the political scandals that have engulfed Parliament House.</p> <p>"It sets a new benchmark, a new ambition for our government," Mr Morrison said.</p> <p>"I am very pleased about that."</p> </div> </div> </div>

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Coronavirus: Jacinda Ardern to join national cabinet meeting

<p>Travellers could soon <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/trans-tasman-flights-on-the-agenda-when-jacinda-ardern-joins-national-cabinet-20200504-p54pnn.html">fly between Australia and New Zealand without undergoing 14 days of quarantine</a> at either ends of the trip as New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and Australia’s National Cabinet are set to discuss the potential of the ‘trans-Tasman bubble’ on Tuesday.</p> <p>Prime Minister Scott Morrison invited Ardern to the meeting with all state and territory premiers and chief ministers to discuss resuming flights between the two countries.</p> <p>“If there is any country in the world with whom we can reconnect with first, undoubtedly that’s New Zealand,” Morrison said last week.</p> <p>Ardern said the easing of travel restrictions is on the agenda, but the process would take time.</p> <p>“Don’t expect this to happen in a couple of weeks’ time,” she said on Monday.</p> <p>“As you can imagine, we need to make sure that we’re locking in the gains that all New Zealanders have helped us achieve, and make sure that we have health precautions in place to make sure we do this safely and well.”</p> <p>New Zealand’s Foreign Minister Winston Peters previously said he had been in constant contact with his Australian counterparts.</p> <p>“We are part of the wider Pacific where we don’t seem to have the kind of chaos that you’re getting in other parts of the world because of Australia’s and New Zealand’s influence in this part of the world at the same time,” he said in April.</p> <p>“So thinking out loud, if we can get this system going with equivalence and where we represent a safeguard for both countries then it is something that we can in the long term be working on.”</p> <p>Australia has 966 active coronavirus cases and New Zealand has 211 at the time of writing.</p> <p>On Monday, New Zealand celebrated its first day without new COVID-19 cases since the peak of the pandemic on March 16.</p>

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All the big changes from the latest National Cabinet Meeting

<p><span>The National Cabinet has held a meeting and decided the temporary coronavirus measures placed on elective surgeries will be lifted after the Anzac Day long weekend, following long discussions on Tuesday.</span><br /><br /><span>Procedures for children under 18 - as well as joint replacements and all cataract and eye procedures for all Australians - will resume after April 27, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said.</span><br /><br /><span>Basic dental procedures including fitting dentures, braces and drilling, IVF, and post-cancer surgery such as breast reconstruction, will also be able to go ahead as of Monday April 27.</span><br /><br /><span>Along with this, diagnostic screenings such as endoscopy and colonoscopy have been given the green light.</span><br /><br /><span>However Morrison affirms that elective surgeries occurring after May 11 will be re-examined, in accordance with the coalition's four-week “road out” which was announced last week.</span><br /><br /><span>The PM says the government’s plan is “to save lives” and in order to do this, they must “stick to the plan.”</span><br /><br /><span>His speech comes while the coronavirus curve is flattening slowly and surely, as they are recording fewer than 2,500 active cases.</span><br /><br /><span>He says in accordance with their plan, they will be scaling up asymptomatic testing for COVID -19, more detailed tracing, and targeted response capability on the ground.</span><br /><br /><span>“Our plan is working. Our planning is - our plan is saving lives. And it is saving livelihoods. We need to stick to that plan,” he said.</span><br /><br /><span>The prime minister also went on to address aged care facilities and urged them to not continue keeping their elderly members who are unwell in perpetual isolation.</span><br /><br /><span>The PM says homes that have banned visitors from seeing their loved ones or patients had gone a step too far.</span><br /><br /><span>“This is important for the mental health and well-being of elderly residents in our community,” he said.</span><br /><br /><span>“The National Cabinet decision was to not shut people off or to lock them away in their rooms.</span><br /><br /><span>“That was never the recommendation nor the advice.”</span><br /><br /><span>Australia’s chief medical officer Brendan Murphy went on to say the PM’s statements obviously did not apply to anyone who did not feel well visiting the elderly.</span><br /><br /><span>“But it’s not reasonable or fair to people who may have been used to getting their family coming every day, who may even have dementia in some cases, to be denied access to their families,” he said.</span></p>

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Kochie takes aim at Scott Morrison's new cabinet: "Has the coalition fixed its women problem?"

<p>Scott Morrison just announced his new-look cabinet with a record number of seven women being appointed to the ministry, but<span> </span><em>Sunrise</em>host David Koch has taken aim at the re-elected PM’s announcement.</p> <p>The morning show host asked Trade Minister Simon Birmingham a few questions regarding the Coalition’s progressive new picks after criticism over the lack of female representation throughout the Liberal Party campaign.</p> <p>“Seven females are said to be sworn into senior roles on Wednesday, has the Coalition fixed its women problem, do you think?” he asked the politician on Monday.</p> <p>The subtle dig from Kochie was ignored by Mr Birmingham who pointed out the appointments, particularly Australia’s first Aboriginal Indigenous Affairs Minister, is a “historic moment” in politics.</p> <p>“It's a great moment ... to see such a strong line up of highly capable women who've got there on their own merits,” he said.</p> <p>“We want to make sure we continue to drive and encourage a representation that reflects the diversity of Australia, and this line up does that.”</p> <p>Mr Morrison’s government has struggled to shake off its “anti-woman” reputations following reports of bullying and sexism within the party arose last year.</p> <p>The allegations resulted in the dramatic exit from former Liberal MP Julia Banks who claimed “gender bias” within the government before moving to become an independent.</p> <p>The ministry’s new additions include Victorian Liberal Senator Jane Hume, Farrer MP Sussan Ley, Forrest MP Nola Marino and South Australian Senator Anne Ruston.</p> <p>Marise Payne will continue to be Foreign Affairs as well as Minister for Women.</p> <p>The announcement was followed by Ms Hume saying the senior roles given to women were based on ability and talent.</p> <p>“The calibre of women in Scott Morrison's cabinet defies aesthetics,” Ms Hume said to <a rel="noopener" href="https://www.theaustralian.com.au/nation/politics/not-here-for-my-skirt-says-promoted-senator/news-story/9b1d3fada57b00b4243139e326a4a31f" target="_blank"><em>The Australian</em>.</a></p> <p>“Make no mistake. I'm not here for my skirt. I'm here for my experience, and the contribution I can make to a sector that is critical to the Australian economy.”</p>

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Women double in new ministry as Turnbull reveals new cabinet

<p>Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull’s new ministry has been announced, and there have been significant changes to his predecessor Tony Abbott’s line-up. Five senior cabinet minister have been stripped of their frontbench job, including Joe Hockey and Kevin Andrews, with Turnbull instead promoting women and young MPs to the nation’s top jobs.</p> <p>When announcing his ministry Mr Turnbull said the changes reflected a modernising of the government.</p> <p>“Today I’m announcing a 21st-century government and a ministry for the future,” he said.</p> <p>In the Turnbull reshuffle, Australia has five female ministers in the expanded federal cabinet of 21, more than double Abbott’s two.</p> <p>Replacing Kevin Andrews, NSW Senator Marise Payne has been appointed as Australia’s first female defence minister.</p> <p>Senator Michaelia Cash will become the new Minister for Employment, Minister for Women, and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Public Service.</p> <p>Kelly O’Dwyer has been appointed Minister for Small Business and Assistant Treasurer.</p> <p>Julie Bishop will remain as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Deputy Leader of the Liberal Party, and Sussan Ley will continue as Minister for Health and Minister for Sport.</p> <p>Of his appointments Mr Turnbull noted that the little-known Marise Payne would make history as “the first woman to be Minister for Defence in our nation’s history.”</p> <p>“Marise is one of our most experienced and capable Senators; she has spent two years in the Human Services portfolio and has done an outstanding job in modernising government service delivery,” he said.</p> <p>“She’ll release the defence White Paper later this year, defining our key national security priorities.”</p> <p>The Minister of Women role returns to a woman, with Mr Turnbull praising Ms Cash’s experience.</p> <p>“She has led the government’s policy development on women’s issues, especially in regards to our response to the scourge of domestic violence,” he said.</p> <p>Mr Turnbull also said Ms O’Dwyer’s economic experience made her ideal for the roles of Minister for Small Business and Assistant Treasurer.</p> <p>“Assistant Treasurer is in effect the ‘minister for revenue’ and is responsible for the tax system,” he explained.</p> <p>Ms Payne and Ms Cash were both promoted from the outer ministry, from Human Services Minister and Assistant Immigration Minister respectively, and Ms O’Dwyer was promoted from her role as parliamentary secretary.</p> <p><em>Here is the full list of the MPs and Senators appointed to Malcolm Turnbull's new ministry:</em></p> <p><strong>Prime Minister:</strong> Malcolm Turnbull</p> <p><strong>Deputy Prime Minister Infrastructure and Regional Development Minister: </strong>Warren Truss</p> <p><strong>Foreign Minister: </strong>Julie Bishop</p> <p><strong>Trade and Investment Minister:</strong> Andrew Robb</p> <p><strong>Attorney General (Leader of the Government in the Senate):</strong> George Brandis</p> <p><strong>Treasurer: </strong>Scott Morrison</p> <p><strong>Assistant Treasurer, Small Business Minister: </strong>Kelly O'Dwyer</p> <p><strong>​Industry, Innovation and Science Minister (Leader of the House): </strong>Christopher Pyne</p> <p><strong>Finance Minister (Deputy Leader of Government in the Senate):</strong> Mathias Cormann</p> <p><strong>​Defence Minister: </strong>Marise Payne</p> <p><strong>​Cabinet Secretary: </strong>Arthur Sinodinos</p> <p><strong>Agriculture and Water Minister: </strong>Barnaby Joyce</p> <p><strong>Indigenous Affairs Minister: </strong>Nigel Scullion</p> <p><strong>Resources, Energy and Northern Australia Minister:</strong> Josh Frydenberg</p> <p><strong>Immigration and Border Protection Minister:</strong> Peter Dutton</p> <p><strong>Environment Minister:</strong> Greg Hunt</p> <p><strong>Health and Sport Minister:</strong> Sussan Ley</p> <p><strong>Communications Minister, Arts Minister and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Digital Government (Manager of Government Business in the Senate): </strong>Mitch Fifield</p> <p><strong>Employment Minister, Minister for Women and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for the Public Service:</strong> Michaelia Cash</p> <p><strong>Social Services Minister:</strong> Christian Porter</p> <p><strong>Education and Training Minister:</strong> Simon Birmingham</p> <p><strong>Territories, Local Government and Major Projects Minister:</strong> Paul Fletcher</p> <p><strong>International Development and Pacific Minister: </strong>Steven Ciobo</p> <p><strong>Tourism and International Education Minister and Minister Assting the Minister for Trade and Investment:</strong> Richard Colbeck</p> <p><strong>Justice Minister and Minister Assisting the Prime Minister for Counter Terrorism: </strong>Michael Keenan</p> <p><strong>Special Minister of State, Defence Materiel and Science Minister: </strong>Mal Brough</p> <p><strong>Cities and Built Environment Minister:</strong> Jamie Briggs</p> <p><strong>Rural Health Minister: </strong>Fiona Nash</p> <p><strong>Veterans' Affairs Minister, Human Services Minister:</strong> Stuart Robert</p> <p><strong>Vocational Education and Skills Minister (Deputy Leader of the House):</strong> Luke Hartsuyker</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister: </strong>Alan Tudge and James McGrath</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister for Productivity:</strong> Peter Hendy</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister for Cabinet Secretary:</strong> Scott Ryan</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister:</strong> Michael McCormack</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister for Multicultural Affairs:</strong> Concetta Fierravanti-Wells</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister to the Treasurer: </strong>Alex Hawke</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources: </strong>Anne Ruston</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister for Science: </strong>Karen Andrews</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister for Innovation: </strong>Wyatt Roy</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister for Health:</strong> Ken Wyatt</p> <p><strong>Assistant Minister for Defence: </strong>Darren Chester</p> <p><strong>Related links: </strong></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/news/news/2015/09/facts-about-malcolm-turnbull/">7 things you should know about our new PM, Malcolm Turnbull</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/news/news/2015/09/reactions-to-malcolm-turnbull-pm/">9 hilarious reactions to the news of Australia's new PM</a></em></strong></span></p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong><em><a href="/news/news/2015/09/julie-bishop-the-project-interview/">Video: Julie Bishop drilled in TV interview on The Project</a></em></strong></span></p>

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