Telstra network recovers & Microsoft jobs cut
Australia is recovering from a major telecommunications outage that disrupted emergency services and transport, while local tech workers face global job cuts. The government is also moving to formally enshrine "Welcome to Country" ceremonies as regional security concerns rise following a Chinese missile test.
Check your mobile connection as Telstra reports 90% of its network is back online following a major outage that disrupted essential services across the country. The failure halted some train lines, blocked Eftpos (electronic payment) transactions at retailers, and prevented many users from reaching triple-zero (000) emergency services. While most services are restored, some users may still experience intermittent connectivity as the final 10% of the network comes back online. If you still cannot reach the police via mobile, authorities advise using a landline to call 131 444 for assistance.
Australian employees at Microsoft are being caught up in a new round of 4,800 global job cuts, adding to the growing number of redundancies in the local technology sector. This comes as analysts warn that Australia’s economy is running out of positive momentum, citing a series of bleak developments that may lead to a more challenging financial environment for households. Experts suggest the lack of positive economic news marks a significant challenge for the national outlook in the near term.
The federal government is formally enshrining "Welcome to Country" ceremonies into law, a move that solidifies the practice of acknowledging traditional Indigenous owners at official events. This decision comes as a response to recent political shifts and aims to protect the cultural protocol in public life. Meanwhile, regional security concerns have increased after China conducted a rare intercontinental missile test in the Pacific, a move seen as a strategic warning to nations in the region regarding Beijing's military reach.
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