Australia news live: Adelaide festival apologises ‘unreservedly’ to Randa Abdel-Fattah and invites her to speak in 2027

Festival issues an unreserved apology amid the firestorm over the decision to remove her from its program. Follow updates liveGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastIranian Australians left distraught with no confirmation their family is safeAlmost a week into Iran’s communication blackout, Iranian Australian activist Mohammad Hashemi received a call from his home country.When I heard the stories, what happened to people, I was crying about the situation and what’s going on in our country.We continue to advise do not travel to Iran. If you choose to remain in Iran, you’re responsible for your own safety. Be prepared to shelter in place for an extended period. Make sure you have supplies of water, food and medication. Continue reading...