Sunday, 02 February 2025 07:06
GOVT'S INCENTIVE GOOD BUT NOT GREAT
THE Australian Government's $10,000 incentive for apprentices in residential construction and clean energy is welcomed by the Independent Tertiary Education Council of Australia (TECA) but criticised for overlooking widespread skills shortages across industries like agriculture, healthcare, tourism, and ICT. While the $627M initiative supports recruitment and retention in targeted sectors, it fails to address systemic gaps in small business support and broader workforce needs. ITECA urges inclusive policies to strengthen Australia's apprenticeship system across all industries.
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Sunday, 02 February 2025 07:03
HCF SUPPORTS SMITH FAMILY PROGRAM
HCF, Australia’s largest not-for-profit health fund, has partnered with The Smith Family to support 1,500 disadvantaged students through the Learning for Life program. This three-year partnership provides financial, personal, and educational resources to help break the cycle of poverty and improve health outcomes. HCF employees will also volunteer in program activities. With 63,000 students already benefiting, the initiative highlights education’s vital role in building healthier, more equitable communities across Australia.
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Sunday, 02 February 2025 07:01
STUDY SHOWS CONSTIPATION - HEART LINK
A MONASH University-led study links constipation to a higher risk of major adverse cardiac events (MACE), including heart attacks and strokes. Analysing data from over 400,000 participants, researchers found constipated individuals were twice as likely to experience MACE. Constipation also increased risks in hypertensive patients by 34%. Genetic correlations suggest shared factors between gut and heart health. With 14% of the global population affected, the study highlights gut health's role in cardiovascular disease prevention.
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