H5N1 bird flu confirmed in east coast giant petrel

A giant petrel has tested positive for the deadly H5N1 bird flu strain, marking the first confirmed case on Australia's east coast. The case was reported by the Sydney Morning Herald on July 4.

Coalition position on new coal plants Liberal frontbencher Dan Tehan told ABC's Insiders program that the party would not rule out new coal-fired power plants if private investors sought to build them. Tehan said new technology would drive down emissions compared with existing plants. He also stated that a coalition with One Nation is not under discussion.

Heritage status UNESCO advisors have expressed utmost concern about the Great Barrier Reef and recommended that Australia report back to the World Heritage Committee in two years. The advisors said the government's climate targets still fall short of being aligned with 1.5C of global heating.

Federal environment minister Murray Watt welcomed the recommendations. Queensland environment minister Andrew Powell also welcomed the recommendations. Murray Watt said Australia is doing more than ever to protect the reef and that efforts are making a difference.

Conservationists said water quality and climate targets remain issues the government must address.