Australia, New Zealand weigh trans-Tasman virus 'bubble'

14 Sept 04:08 Key points summarised by AI

Australian and New Zealand leaders are discussing a 'trans-Tasman bubble' to lift bilateral coronavirus travel bans between the two nations.
The initiative is driven by both countries' success in significantly reducing new COVID-19 infections, enabling them to plan for economic recovery.
The proposed travel bubble would involve mutually waiving the two-week quarantine periods currently imposed on international arrivals.
New Zealand's Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern cautioned that implementation won't be immediate, prioritizing robust health precautions and locking in current gains.
Discussions also include shared approaches to battling the virus, such as contact tracing, though some internal Australian state borders still need to reopen for full free movement.

Six injured after car smashes into On Nut shopping mall

Today 22:44 Key points summarised by AI

A 67-year-old woman drove her car through the glass frontage of a Bangkok shopping mall, injuring six people, including a six-year-old girl.
The driver claimed she accidentally pressed the accelerator instead of the brake after being startled, causing the vehicle to surge forward.
She apologized to the victims, promising insurance coverage and additional financial aid, while police continue to gather statements before filing charges.