Sydney temperatures soar 10C in 90 minutes as wild winds and weather batter Victoria

In a thrilling encounter at the Women's Cricket World Cup, Australia is set to chase down a target of 245 runs against England. Both teams are unbeaten, making this match crucial for their standings in the tournament. The game is taking place in Indore, where early overs have seen some exciting batting from England's openers. This match is significant not only for the teams involved but also for fans who are eager to see which side will maintain their winning streak.

A senior constable in New South Wales has been charged with grievous bodily harm after allegedly assaulting former Greens candidate Hannah Thomas. This serious charge, which can lead to a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison, highlights ongoing concerns about police conduct and accountability in Australia. The case has drawn significant public attention, emphasizing the need for transparency and justice in law enforcement.

Sussan Ley, a prominent Liberal minister, has retracted her earlier call for Kevin Rudd to be dismissed from his role as the US ambassador. This shift comes after fellow minister Jane Hume labeled the calls for Rudd's removal as somewhat petty. The discussion highlights ongoing tensions within Australian politics regarding the effectiveness of Rudd's ambassadorship and the broader implications for diplomatic relations. Ley's change of stance reflects a more measured approach to political discourse, emphasizing the importance of unity within the party.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has successfully navigated his relationship with US President Donald Trump, showcasing his diplomatic skills. The positive reception from Trump is seen as a validation of Albanese's foreign policy approach, particularly his decision to hold off on requesting an earlier meeting. This development is significant as it highlights the importance of strong international relations and the ability to manage differing viewpoints effectively.

A recent annual survey has revealed that Coogee Beach and Shelly Beach in Manly are among the most polluted swimming spots in Sydney, with about 21% of the 249 swimming sites across New South Wales rated as having 'poor' or 'very poor' water quality. This is concerning for both locals and tourists, as it raises health risks associated with swimming in contaminated waters. The findings highlight the need for improved water management and pollution control measures to ensure safe recreational activities.

Ricky Ponting, the former captain of Australia, is optimistic about the future performance of Indian cricket stars Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma following their recent defeat in the ODI series in Perth. He believes that despite their age, both players have the potential to bounce back and regain their form, which is crucial for India's success in upcoming matches. This perspective is significant as it highlights the resilience of experienced players in high-pressure situations.

Tensions between China and Australia have escalated as both nations accuse each other over an incident involving a Chinese jet allegedly releasing flares in the South China Sea. This dispute highlights the ongoing geopolitical friction in the region, which is critical for international shipping and security. Understanding these developments is essential as they could impact diplomatic relations and regional stability.

Mark Nawaqanitawase has made headlines as he becomes a dual international, showcasing his talent in both rugby union and league. This recognition comes after an impressive season with the Roosters in the NRL. He will be joining fellow debutant Reece Walsh as they take on England at Wembley Stadium, promising an exciting match ahead. This is significant not just for Nawaqanitawase's career but also for Australian rugby, as it highlights the depth of talent available to the national team.

Kiev is facing a financial crisis, with projections indicating it could run out of money by April. In response, the European Union is contemplating a substantial €140 billion loan sourced from frozen Russian assets to help stabilize Ukraine's economy. This move is significant as it highlights the ongoing financial challenges Ukraine faces amid the ongoing conflict and the EU's commitment to supporting the country during this critical time.

Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to address Canadians regarding the economy amid growing concerns about the federal budget deficit, which a new report from Desjardins suggests could reach its highest level in 30 years. This speech is significant as it comes at a time when many are anxious about the financial future of the country, highlighting the need for transparency and effective management of public funds.

SpaceX has announced that it has cut Starlink services to scam camps in Myanmar, a move welcomed by campaigners who argue that the technology was being misused by crime syndicates operating along the Thai-Myanmar border. This decision is significant as it highlights the responsibility of tech companies in preventing their services from being exploited for illegal activities, and it reflects a growing awareness of the impact of technology on crime.

In a thrilling encounter at the Women's Cricket World Cup, Australia is set to chase down a target of 245 runs against England. Both teams are unbeaten, making this match crucial for their standings in the tournament. The game is taking place in Indore, where early overs have seen some exciting batting from England's openers. This match is significant not only for the teams involved but also for fans who are eager to see which side will maintain their winning streak.

The grooming inquiry faces a setback as child exploitation expert Jim Gamble withdraws his candidacy to chair the panel, following the resignation of four women who were part of the survivors' group. This development is significant as it raises concerns about the inquiry's credibility and the voices of survivors being heard, highlighting ongoing challenges in addressing child exploitation.

Today's selection of photographs showcases the beauty and vibrancy of Diwali celebrations alongside stunning images of nature, including waves of white foam. These visuals not only capture the essence of cultural festivities but also highlight the artistic talent of photographers around the globe. It's a reminder of how photography can connect us to different cultures and moments in time.