Record Electric Vehicle Sales Amid Fuel Crisis
In the midst of a fuel crisis driven by global conflicts, Australians are increasingly turning to electric vehicles (EVs), setting a new national record for sales. According to the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, over 15,800 new electric cars were purchased in March. This surge marks a significant increase, with pure electric vehicles now representing 14.6% of all new car sales, up from 7.5% in March 2025.
The rise in EV sales comes as petrol and diesel vehicle sales stagnate, highlighting a shift in consumer preferences. The record number of EVs sold in a single month reflects the growing interest in sustainable transportation solutions amid concerns over fuel availability and prices.
Ben Roberts-Smith Faces War Crime Charges
Ben Roberts-Smith, Australia’s most decorated living soldier, has been formally charged with war crimes. The former SAS officer faces five counts of murder related to alleged offenses in Afghanistan between April 2009 and October 2012. These charges include three counts of aiding, abetting, counseling, or procuring an offense, one count of joint commission of an offense, and one count of an actual offense. He was arrested at Sydney airport and is expected to appear in court tomorrow.
Australian War Memorial to Review Roberts-Smith Exhibit
The Australian War Memorial will continue to display Ben Roberts-Smith’s uniform, equipment, and medals despite the arrest. However, the memorial acknowledged the media reports of his arrest and stated it would review the wording of the interpretive panel associated with his display. The memorial emphasized its commitment to monitoring developments and making updates as necessary.
NSW Government Offers Free Nasal Spray Flu Vaccine for Children
In an effort to increase vaccination rates among children, New South Wales is now offering a free nasal spray flu vaccine for kids aged two to four. This initiative follows similar efforts in Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia. The needle-free vaccine is expected to reduce barriers to vaccination, particularly for children and adults with a fear of needles.
Dr. Rebekah Hoffman, the NSW/ACT chair for the Royal Australian College of GPs, stated, “Having needle-free vaccines for children aged two to four, at no cost to parents, is a game-changing policy.”
Fuel Crisis and Government Measures
Following a significant drop in fuel shortages due to a cut in the federal excise, the NSW government reports that the number of petrol stations without fuel has almost halved. The government has employed emergency powers to gather information from fuel companies to ensure supply continuity, particularly in regional areas.
Adriana Rivas Extradition to Chile
Adriana Elcira Rivas, a former Sydney nanny accused of being involved in disappearances during Chile’s Pinochet regime, will be extradited to Chile after losing her legal battle to remain in Australia. Rivas, who emigrated to Australia in 1978, denies the allegations of participating in the disappearances of seven people in 1976.
Read more about Rivas’s extradition here.
Original Story at www.theguardian.com