Friday's headlines

22 Mar 2013

A non-existent leadership spill, tornadoes in Victoria and an end to a Gold Coast siege. Meanwhile, in international news, India is in the midst of passing new sexual violence laws.

Non-existent spill

Yesterday’s failed attempt to force Julia Gillard out of the top job has seen a number of top Labor figures call for the PM to clean out her front bench. Yesterday’s events resulted in two Labor frontbenchers and three whips leaving their posts. ABC News has a run-down of the events that unfolded and for a good analysis of the situation, see The Conversation.

Victorians experience tornadoes

Two tornadoes ripped through Victoria’s north east last night, leaving at least 19 people injured with two in a serious condition. Authorities are expecting more people to come forward with injuries as the day breaks. Read more.

Gold Coast siege ends

A tense 30-hour siege on the Gold Coast has ended after the man involved turned himself into police. The man was threatening to detonate explosives in his home in Upper Coomera. Courier Mail has more.

Staff tried to save helicopter victims

Staff at Panorama House Function Centre tried to save four people who died in a helicopter crash to no avail. The helicopter is believed to have clipped a tree before bursting into flames at Bulli Tops. The Sydney Morning Herald has the details.

India passes laws against sexual violence

India has passed a new law to protect women against sexual violence in response to the gang rape and subsequent death of a young woman in New Delhi. The new law still requires the President’s signature before it becomes official. News.com.au has the full story.

Cyprus given four-day deadline

Cyprus has been given four days to settle on a new plan to avoid bankruptcy. The European Central Bank has warned it will pull the plug on the country’s banks at the start of next week unless action is taken. Read more.