SBS Assyrian

In this year-end feature, we look back at major events including the Australian Federal Election, Australia’s bid to host COP30, the tariff imposed on Australia by Donald Trump, the Pacific Nations Conference, the introduction of social media bans for children under 16, and many more significant developments.

Major platforms face millions in fines as Australia enforces social media ban; Israel's parliament takes a step toward ratifying a U-S proposed peace plan for Gaza; and in cricket, Pat Cummins could return to the Ashes for the second test this afternoon...

In this program, Oliver Slewa discusses the International Day of People with Disability, Homer Abramian explains how the Assyrian civilisation was first uncovered in 1842, and experts in Australia talk about how parents should approach the upcoming social media ban for children under 16.

The White House in lockdown after two National Guard soldiers shot dead; Revelations about Russia's input in the U-S brokered plan to end war in Ukraine; and in golf, Min Woo Lee in a strong position to compete at the Australian PGA Championship this weekend.

The death toll from deadly storms in Asia surpass 1,300; Call for answers as investigation announced into the deadly fire in Hong Kong; and in cricket, Usman Khawaja ruled out of the second Ashes Test.

This is part of a lecture presented by historian Homer Abramian explainining on how, for the first time in recorded history, excavators such as Émile Botta and Austen Henry Layard uncovered the ruins of the Assyrian Empire in the mid-1800s. Their discoveries eventually led to the decipherment of cuneiform, opening the door for the world to learn about the ancient Assyrians.

The International Day of People with Disability, observed each year on December 3, is dedicated to raising awareness, promoting inclusion, and celebrating the achievements of people with disabilities. Oliver Slewa explains the significance of this important event.

13 people arrested in Hong Kong over apartment fires; The federal government releases a national AI plan, and in sport, Usman Khawaja's fitness for the second Ashes Test in doubt.

Calls to tackle vaccine hesitancy amid falling immunisation rates in Australia; Australian funding for Pacific countries to tackle rising HIV rates welcomed; and in Formula One, Oscar Piastri's reaction after a costly setback at the Qatar Grand Prix.

Suite of environment reforms to pass through parliament; a woman dead and a man in hospital after a shark attack on a remote New South Wales beach; and in sport, The Olympic torch has been lit in ancient Olympia.