Declan Gooch
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ABC journalist and news producer in Canberra. Formerly reporting from Broken Hill, regional SA and a few other places.
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Articles by Declan Gooch
Hunter Biden enters surprise court plea
The son of US President Joe Biden has pleaded guilty to tax evasion charges, averting a weeks-long trial just before it started. Hunter Biden has admitted to failing to pay more than a million US dollars in taxes while he was spending big on luxuries. He could be facing up to 17 years in jail.
Government proposes "guardrails" for AI
The federal government wants to introduce new guidelines for Australian businesses who use artificial intelligence. Organisations would have to tell customers and staff about how they're using AI, and people affected by decisions driven by the technology would have to be given a way to challenge them. It comes as research suggests many Australian businesses aren't being up-front about how they're using the technology.
German far-right party gains votes
It appears likely a far-right political party could win a German state election for the first time since the Second World War. The Alternative for Deutschland party is projected to win 33 per cent of the vote in the state of Thuringia, ahead of the mainstream conservatives at 24 per cent.
Government agrees on sexuality census question
The Federal Government has backed down on its decision to exclude a new question about sexual orientation in the next census. The Prime Minister says there'll likely be a single question about sexuality, after six Labor MPs called on the government not to walk away from a promise it made following the last census. But advocates say just one question won't be enough to fix a major statistical blind spot.
Threat of summer blackouts eases
There's fresh hope that Australia's main power grid can handle the shift to renewables without the blackouts we've been warned about. In its latest forecast, Australia's electricity authority has scaled back its warnings about the risk of power shortages in coming years. But there's still uncertainty about whether the grid can cope, if there are delays in delivering the major generation and transmission projects expected to do a lot of the heavy lifting.
UN criticises Israeli offensive in West Bank
At least 10 Palestinians have been killed in a major Israeli military offensive in the West Bank. Israel says the operation is targeting terrorism, but the United Nations warns it risks making an already catastrophic situation in the region even worse. Palestinians say Israel is attempting to annex more of the West Bank, while the world's attention is on Gaza.
Prosecutors issue new Donald Trump indictment
Prosecutors seeking to prove that Donald Trump attempted to overturn the results of the 2020 US election have filed a new indictment against the former president. They've had to recalibrate their case because of a Supreme Court decision granting presidents immunity from prosecution for actions taken in an official capacity.
New cap on international student numbers - ABC listen
Nick Grimm: The federal government has today announced a new cap on the number of international students allowed to enrol for courses inside Australia. The limit on numbers will now be set at 270,000, similar to the number of overseas students who were coming to this country prior to COVID. Since the reopening of borders after the pandemic, there's been a boom in students applying to study here. Now the government says it needs to restore integrity to the system.
Call for venues to stock anti-opioid medication
Drug and addiction experts are calling for pubs, clubs and even members of the public to make sure they're carrying a substance that can quickly reverse an opioid overdose. Naloxone is easy to administer, available in pharmacies, and mandatory for venues in some areas to carry in first aid kits. And as synthetic opioids are increasingly found mixed in with other drugs, the chances it'll be needed on a night out or at a music festival are growing.
Right to Disconnect laws kick in
From today, millions of Australian workers have the right to ignore phone calls, texts and emails from their boss outside working hours. Laws creating the so-called right to disconnect have come into effect today for organisations employing more than 15 people. But exactly how and when the new right will apply is unclear, and experts are worried that many businesses are unaware of the change.
No breakthrough yet on Gaza ceasefire
The US Secretary of State has left the Middle East with no firm prospect of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Antony Blinken says negotiations will continue, but warned that time is running out to bring the conflict to an end. Meanwhile, the chief of the Israeli agency that failed to anticipate the October 7 attack by Hamas has stepped down, saying he'll forever be haunted by memories of the day.
Agency to investigate MPs' behaviour
The Federal Government's introducing laws to set up a new agency that would be able to punish MP's and staffers who misbehave in the workplace. The Independent Parliamentary Standards Commission would have the power to fine an MP five per cent of their salary, and remove them from powerful committees. But it'll need cross-party support to pass. Featured: Kylea Tink, independent MP Blair Williams, Monash University Matt Canavan, Nationals Senator Rebekha Sharkie, Centre Alliance MP
Bodies of six hostages recovered in Gaza
Israeli forces have recovered the bodies of six hostages, captured by Hamas during the October 7 attack. The overnight operation has added to pressure from the families of hostages on Israeli authorities to reach a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. Talks are continuing this week, but there's no sign of a breakthrough.
Democratic National Convention kicks off in Chicago
Kamala Harris has made an early appearance at the Democratic National Convention, rallying the crowd and paying tribute to president Joe Biden. Tens of thousands of Democrats have gathered in Chicago for the event... showing their support for Ms Harris and vice-presidential nominee Tim Walz. The buoyant mood might have been difficult to imagine just four weeks ago... before Joe Biden gave up the nomination... but polls suggest the tide for the Democrats is starting to turn.
Prime Minister dismisses internal criticism over gambling policy
A Labor MP has hit out at the government's proposed partial ban on gambling advertising, saying it's being "pummelled" by lobbyists. Mike Freelander is one of several Labor dissenters who believe the government should instead be opting for a total ban on gambling ads. One political analyst says pressure from the gambling industry may explain why the government's opted for a softer approach.
Liberal Party sacks NSW state director over council bungle
The New South Wales Liberal Party has sacked its state director Richard Shields over a paperwork error that could cost the party dozens of seats in local government. The party missed the deadline to nominate well over a hundred of its candidates including more than 40 sitting councillors.
Peter Dutton doubles down on call for ban on Gaza refugees in Australia
Opposition leader Peter Dutton has doubled down on his calls for a ban on accepting Palestinian refugees fleeing the conflict in Gaza. Peter Dutton says visa applicants aren't being vetted thoroughly enough to catch supporters of Hamas. It's a position that has outraged advocates, and appears not to've been put to shadow cabinet first.
Bluesfest to end for good after 35 years
The organisers of one of Australia's most long-running music festivals are calling it quits, warning the live music sector needs more government support. For 35 years, Bluesfest has drawn some of the world's biggest performers to the Byron Bay region in northern New South Wales. But next year's event will be the last.
Battle over health insurance premiums
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The private health insurance industry has hit back at doctors groups and hospitals - accusing them of dishonesty. The Australian Medical Association and Catholic Health Australia say private health insurers charge patients unfairly high premiums while starving hospitals of funds. They've called for an independent body to set premiums, while insurers argue the current process is already rigorous.
By Declan Gooch Verified, Annie Guest Verified
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Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)
Verified
Federal Government looking into digital ID system
The Federal Government's poised to announce a new system it says will make verifying your identity as easy as tapping your phone, or scanning a Q-R code. It's promising its new digital I-D service will be simple to use - and feature world-leading security. But cybersecurity experts - and some business owners - say those claims can't be tested without more transparency.
Helicopter that hit Queensland hotel was on 'unauthorised' flight
The owner of a helicopter that flew into a Far North Queensland hotel this morning... says the flight was "unauthorised". The crash, into the roof of the Hilton Doubletree hotel in Cairns, killed the pilot and forced the evacuation of hundreds of guests. The aircraft is owned by charter company Nautilus Aviation, which says it's co-operating with investigators.
Chaos as helicopter crashes on hotel roof
Police in Queensland have declared an emergency after a helicopter crashed into the roof of a hotel at Cairns, in the state's far north. Hundreds of people have been evacuated from the building and emergency services say the aircraft was severely damaged. While there were no serious injuries on the ground, the fate of the pilot and anyone else on board remains unknown. Sabra Lane: Queensland police say the pilot of a helicopter that crashed into a hotel in Cairns in northern Queensland has died.
AUKUS treaty-Government dismisses nuclear concerns
Australia, the UK and the US have struck a new agreement as part of the AUKUS pact. It allows the transfer of naval nuclear technology to Australia so nuclear submarines can eventually be developed and built here. But some vague language about the agreement has AUKUS critics suggesting it will also allow the dumping of radioactive waste here.
Government defends strengthening US partnership
The Federal Government has defended tightening its security partnership with the United States, during talks about the AUKUS military alliance. Plans are progressing for the domestic manufacture of guided missile systems, and a deal has been reached to expand the US military presence in Australia's Top End. But the government has hit at back at concerns Australia could become a dumping ground for nuclear waste as part of the deal.
Local councils struggling for staff and funds
Local councils across the country have warned they're dealing with significant staff shortages... and worsening financial challenges. Analysts say local government is facing a funding shortfall worth hundreds of millions of dollars... and it's affecting the viability of the sector. Dozens of councils have written to a parliamentary inquiry calling for more support.
Putin slams Ukrainian raid as "large-scale provocation"
The Russian President Vladimir Putin has accused Ukraine of a large-scale provocation, following reports Ukrainian troops have made their biggest advance into Russian territory since the war began. The Russian military says it's stopped Ukraine's incursion into the south-western Kursk region. But heavy fighting appears to be continuing.
Democratic VP pick Tim Walz holds first rally
With just under 90 days to go until the U-S presidential election, the Democratic party has finally locked in its ticket. Its presidential nominee Kamala Harris has selected Minnesota governor Tim Walz as her running mate. The pair have made their first joint appearance at a rally in Philadelphia.
Adelaide pop singer Lizzie Hosking uses her disability as a superpower
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Australian pop singer Lizzie Hosking is searching for her big break, and she's about to play a gig that might get her one. The Adelaide musician is one of just ten hand-picked to play for a panel of music industry professionals. And she says her secret weapon is her disability. Featured: Lizzie Hosking, singer Christine Schloithe, MusicSA CEO Sally Sara: Australian pop singer Lizzie Hosking is searching for her big break. And the gig she plays tomorrow afternoon could just get her there.
By Declan Gooch Verified, Matthew Smith Verified
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Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)
Verified
Why La Nina and El Nino events don't always pan out as expected
When farmers hear predictions of an El Nino weather event, they get prepared for a warm, dry summer, and if that forecast is wrong, it can prove costly. But new research from the CSIRO has found there are underlying factors that may determine whether those conditions actually arrive. Scientists say the findings emphasise the unpredictability of Australia's key climate drivers. Featured: Tim Burvill, South Australian farmer Carly Tozer, CSIRO researcher Joe Keynes, Livestock SA
Reshuffled Labor ministry sworn in
Labor's new-look ministry has been sworn in today, after the Prime Minister announced his first portfolio reshuffle since the election. After the Opposition's fierce criticism of the government's handling of immigration detention matters, seasoned minister Tony Burke adds Immigration and Home Affairs to his long list of responsibilities. Meanwhile, Victorian MP Clare O'Neil takes over the housing portfolio.
Australian firefighters helping in Canada, as fires grip Jasper
Program: Australian firefighters helping in Canada, as fires grip Jasper Broadcast 1h ago1 hours agoThu 25 Jul 2024 at 10:00pm Space to play or pause, M to mute, left and right arrows to seek, up and down arrows for volume.
'Dark oxygen' produced without sunlight on sea floor
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Scientists studying the deep ocean have made a discovery that could upend our understanding of how and where life on earth began. They've found a previously-unknown supply of oxygen under the sea floor... where there's no sunlight for photosynthesis by plants. The oxygen is coming from metallic deposits... that environmentalists say are threatened by deep sea mining.
By Declan Gooch Verified, Katherine Gregory Verified
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Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)
Verified
Families of MH17 passengers mark tenth anniversary of crash
The families of those killed in the MH17 disaster have gathered in Canberra to mark a decade since the passenger jet was shot down over eastern Ukraine. Almost 300 people were killed when the Malaysia Airlines flight was hit by a missile fired by Russian separatists, who remain at large, despite a criminal trial. Those who knew the 38 Australians on board say the memory is still fresh.
Cave on the moon could host lunar base, researchers say
Scientists say a newly-discovered underground tunnel on the moon could provide the ideal spot for a future lunar base. The researchers were able to map part of the cave using ground-penetrating radar, and say the next step should be a robotic mission to look inside. Australian experts say the idea of humans living in a lunar cave is no longer in the realms of science fiction.
Australian leaders fear for democracy in wake of shooting
Political leaders in Australia say the attempt on Donald Trump's life has left them worried about the health of global democracy. The Prime Minister has also urged Australians to bring down the temperature of the political discourse here at home. The treasurer, Jim Chalmers, says there's no doubt politics is getting uglier, thanks to a rise in extremist views.
'Right to disconnect' laws to come in next month
The workplace regulator has provided the clearest picture yet of how new 'right to disconnect' rules will apply to employers. The changes, which give many workers the right to ignore their bosses' calls and emails after hours, are coming into effect at the end of next month. But industry groups and experts warn there may be confusion when they do.
NT police end Alice Springs curfew
The Northern Territory's police commissioner has decided not to extend the curfew in Alice Springs. The snap three-day restriction was introduced on Monday after a weekend of violence in the town. The police maintain it was successful as no arrests were made in the curfew zone and dozens of people were moved on. Many frustrated locals though say a curfew isn't a long term solution to the town's problems and that better ways to bring down the crime rate are obvious.
Dead whales should be towed to sea, study suggests
Program: Dead whales should be towed to sea, study suggests Broadcast 2h ago2 hours agoWed 10 Jul 2024 at 8:15am Space to play or pause, M to mute, left and right arrows to seek, up and down arrows for volume.
New facilities provide hope for competitive skateboarders
Skateboarders in Australia's capital are hoping a new half-pipe will help return the scene to its glory days. Perhaps surprisingly, Canberra was once at the forefront of Australian skateboarding, even attracting the likes of superstar skater Tony Hawk. And the city has no shortage of potential skateboarding talent, including at least one Olympic hopeful, who'll now have a better shot at global success.
Electric vehicles provide power during blackout in world first
A fleet of electric cars in Canberra has achieved what researchers say is a world-first. The vehicles responded to a blackout caused by extreme weather, by sending power from their batteries into the national grid. Advocates say vehicle-to-grid technology could provide a system powered increasingly by renewables, with crucial stability.
Climate change threatening Australian live music
When thousands of festivalgoers left the Big Red Bash at Birdsville in outback Queensland last week, they narrowly missed getting stranded by the town's heaviest July rainfall in 25 years. The outback festival is one of dozens of live music events that've had to deal with extreme weather in recent years. And researchers and musicians are warning the viability of the sector is being threatened by climate change.
Big Red Bash festival goers escape outback downpour
It's the music festival that turns one of Queensland's most isolated towns into a city for three days, but Big Red Bash attendees almost found themselves stuck in Birdsville for much longer than that. Up to 50mm of rain fell across the region over the weekend, breaking some July records and sending festival-goers scrambling to leave town.
New report forecasts enough gas supply for three years
The competition regulator has predicted there'll be enough gas to meet demand on Australia's east coast for the next three years, despite warnings from the market operator about imminent shortfalls. The ACCC's report also says gas prices have continued to decline from record highs in 20-22. But analysts warn the supply of gas is still extremely tight and recent weeks have tested its limits.
Khan Younis evacuation order leaves Gazans with "nowhere to go"
Israel has ordered more than a quarter of a million people to leave Khan Younis, Gaza's second largest city. Many of those Palestinians have already been displaced several times and now say there's nowhere left for them to go. Israel had said it cleared the city of Hamas militants earlier in the year, but observers believe this latest evacuation order suggests another military operation is imminent.
Government urged to overhaul secrecy laws
Laws that make it illegal for journalists and others to merely receive classified or secret information should be repealed, according to a report quietly tabled in Parliament last week. The Independent National Security Legislation Monitor has made 15 recommendations for the reform of Australia's secrecy laws. Whistleblower advocates and journalists say change is urgently needed.
Tech giants told to stop kids accessing pornography
Social media and tech giants have been given six months to show how they'll stop Australian children from being exposed to pornography and other graphic material online. The E-Safety Commissioner is requiring the industry to develop enforceable codes preventing young children from coming across content they're not ready to see. But the commissioner acknowledges that getting the industry to agree on an approach could be tough.
ACT property developers personally liable for defects under new law
The directors of property development companies that build defective homes in one Australian jurisdiction might find their own homes at risk. Shoddy construction work leaving homes unfinished or uninhabitable costs billions of dollars each year to repair. The ACT has just passed legislation making company directors personally liable for defects that go un-repaired, and requiring developers to apply for a licence.
Sports integrity body clears AFL of doping breach
The sports integrity watchdog has cleared the Australian Football League of the allegation it's breaching anti-doping rules by running a secret drug testing regime. The Independent federal MP Andrew Wilkie made the sensational claim under parliamentary privilege in March, triggering the investigation by Sport Integrity Australia. While it found the AFL hasn't broken any rules, it's made recommendations to improve the league's drug testing regime.
Pop-up vet clinics providing a lifeline for vulnerable Australians
Pet ownership is a source of joy and comfort for many Australians experiencing homelessness. But as anyone who's owned an animal can attest, vet bills can be eye-wateringly expensive. A team of volunteer vets is helping vulnerable people around the country look after their animals... and amid a worsening housing crisis, they're taking on a stream of new clients. Featured: Matthew Rivers, Pets in the Park client Fiona Russell, Pets in the Park organiser Kate Toyer, veterinarian
Coalition faces challenges in selling nuclear plan
Coalition MPs have been promoting their nuclear plan today, arguing seven nuclear reactors will drive down power prices, secure the electricity supply and reduce carbon emissions. It's one of the biggest overhauls of Australia's energy system ever proposed, but the Opposition is yet to reveal its estimated cost. State Premiers are not keen on the plan and even if they can be convinced to back it, there's no guarantee a Coalition government could acquire the sites it's targeting.
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