Australian news and politics live: Albanese and Macron phone call on Gaza crisis, EU trade progress, climate

West Australian

7 hours ago

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More than 50,000 state school teachers across Queensland will strike on Wednesday over serious issues in state schools that the union says has led to a chronic teacher shortage and pay dispute.
It will be the first time in 16 years Queensland Teachers Union members stop work in response to claims the Crisafulli government has failed to acknowledge the 'urgency of serious issues' affecting schools across the state.
The government says schools will remain open and students would be supervised.
QTU president Cresta Richardson said chronic teacher shortages had led to increased workloads and other serious issues, such as violence in schools, that required statewide attention.
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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has held a significant phone conversation with French President Emmanuel Macron overnight, underscoring the strong bilateral relationship between Australia and France amid pressing global challenges.
'The leaders spoke about the crisis in Gaza and their ongoing commitment to getting aid to civilians. Both leaders discussed their longstanding support for a two state solution,' a statement from the Prime Minister's office said.
'Further, the leaders discussed action on climate and France's support for Australia's joint bid to host COP31 in partnership with the Pacific.
'The leaders agreed on the importance of finalising the Australia-EU Free Trade Agreement.
'The leaders agreed to stay in close touch and meet again at the United Nations General Assembly in September.'