Today’s guest on FTD was Federal Member for Wentworth, Dave Sharma. As well as a local update, Mr Sharma also shared his perspective as a former diplomat including the role of the United Nations and World Health Organisation.
In Federal news, the Government is exploring the potential for smartphones to assist in the relaxing of social distancing regulations by tracking citizens. The ABC reports an app based on similar models in the UK and Singapore is currently being developed. The voluntary app would allow authorities to trace contact between those infected with COVID-19 and the community.
In NSW, Premier Berejiklian announced today that a special commission of inquiry would be launched into the Ruby Princess debacle headed by barrister Bret Walker SC. Mr Walker is due to report back to the Premier by Mid-August. All 19 deaths associated with the Ruby Princess cruise ship have been reported to the NSW coroner with the potential for a coronial inquest.
The Berejiklian Government also announced a $440 million rent rescue package, which is says will force landlords and tenants to negotiate preventing rent strikes and evictions. The six month package includes a moratorium on evictions due to rental arrears. There is also a new obligation that both parties must negotiate before a landlord can seek forced end to tenancy.
As always, please get in contact with any questions, queries or comments via fortheduration@eastsidefm.org.