Tuesday's headlines

21 Jan 2014

Government announces welfare crackdown, saying current levels are unsustainable. In sports news, Mitchell Johnson has taken home the Allan Border Medal.

Government announces welfare crackdown

Claiming the current levels of welfare are unsustainable, the Federal Government has announced a crackdown on eligibility for the dole and disability pension. A recent report says the number of Australians receiving Newstart and the disability or aged pension reached more than five million in 2012, equating to one in five Australians receiving an income support payment. ABC News has the details.

West Gate Bridge repaired overnight

Melbourne’s West Gate Bridge has been reopened after crews worked through the night to repair a large crack. Emergency works were carried out yesterday afternoon, and a full repair was conducted overnight. VicRoads believes the record heatwave that hit Melbourne last week caused the damage. Read more.

New passport for Corby

Schapelle Corby has been issued a new passport by the Australian Government, edging one step closer to being released. The convicted drug smuggler only needs to pass two more bureaucratic hurdles before she is eligible for parole. Nine News has the full story.

Earthquake hits New Zealand

A strong earthquake has hit New Zealand’s north island, hitting about 40km north of Masterton, near the southern tip of the island. The earthquake measured 6.2 magnitude. There were no reports of injuries. Read more on News.com.au

New terror threat for Sochi Winter Olympics

Two men donning explosive belts have appeared in a video warning Russian president Vladimir Putin to expect a ‘present’ at the Sochi Winter Olympics. The video was posted after the men are believed to have carried out suicide attacks in south Russia. The group identifies itself as Vilayat Dagestan. Read more.

Johnson wins Allan Border Medal

Bowler Mitchell Johnson won the Allan Border Medal in Sydney last night, narrowly beating Australia captain Michael Clarke by 12 votes. Clarke was not left out however, being named the Australian Test Player of the year for the fourth time, taking the title for the third consecutive year. ABC News has the story.