Trigger warning: this article deals with the topic of domestic violence and may be distressing for some readers.
Getting your daily dose of the news from a bunch of random Facebook posts is a bold choice. A bold, foolish choice. After all, can your neighbour Dazza really be trusted when he shares a story from The Moon Is Flat Times? Fortunately though, The Latch has got your back. Here are today’s biggest stories that are actually legit:
Scotland Is Bringing in a Rent Freeze
In Australia, your landlord can increase your rent once per year by $1,000. That’s not a joke, they could legally do that if they gave you enough notice. Meanwhile, across the globe, the BBC has reported that Scotland is planning on preventing winter evictions and freezing rental increases until early next year.
“This Programme for Government is published in the context of the most severe cost crisis in many of our lifetimes,” stated Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon. “It is a crisis pushing millions into poverty and poses a genuine danger, not just to livelihoods, but to lives.”
Australia Is Flooding Again
Unfortunately, the terrible wet catastrophes are continuing. As per The InDaily, Port Augusta in South Australia has been slammed with around 40mm of rain since 9:00 AM yesterday. This has resulted in a whack of flash flooding and property damage taking place.
An SES spokesperson told Adelaide Now that this town is experiencing a “one in 10-year weather event.” They also said the calls they received were “dominantly about water coming in through the ceiling or minor flooding in through doors and low-lying areas.”
Related: The Soulbreaking Pakistan Floods of 2022
Related: How to Help People Who Have Been Affected by the Floods
More Domestic Violence Resources Are Coming to NSW
A defunct aged care facility in NSW is being transformed into a haven for older women that need to escape domestic and family violence. The ABC has reported that Women’s Community Shelter, Pacific Link, and the NSW Government to make this happen.
“Domestic violence is prevalent and particularly women over 55 are at risk of domestic violence and homelessness,” noted the Minister for Women’s Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Sexual Violence, Natalie Ward. She additionally explained, “This collaboration has seen a building that would otherwise be sitting empty coming to life and providing that healing space for women.”
It’s National Bilby Day
“It’s National Bilby Day today!” exclaimed WIRES on Facebook. “To celebrate, here are some fun facts about this little marsupial you may not have known previously.” WIRES then went on to outline that bilbies are incredible burrowers, have backward pouches to protect their young from flinging dirt, and their name is a Yuwaalaraay word meaning “long-nosed rat.”
The Latch encourages anyone who is struggling and needs support to call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. Both of these services provide trained counsellors you can talk with 24/7. You can also talk to someone from 1800RESPECT via online chat. If you are in immediate danger, call 000.
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