The Australian Parliament is expected to pass laws allowing same-sex marriage within three weeks following a majority 'yes' vote in a national survey. Debate on the bill, introduced by Liberal Senator Dean Smith, has begun, with Attorney-General George Brandis proposing amendments to address religious freedoms and civil celebrants' rights. The bill is anticipated to pass the lower house by December 7, with the first legal same-sex weddings expected early next year. The legislation is seen as a significant step towards equality, with bipartisan support and advocacy from key political figures, including Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull and Labor leader Bill Shorten.

Plans to evacuate up to 800 Palestinians with foreign passports from Gaza began amid intensified Israeli airstrikes, with the American Consulate in Israel assisting 150 dual US citizens. The death toll in Gaza has risen to 171, with over 1,000 injured. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu indicated the operation might continue for an extended period. Evacuation efforts are coordinated with the Israeli government, and the first group of evacuees has been transported to Jordan. The conflict has led to significant casualties and destruction, with international calls for a ceasefire being ignored. Hamas has set conditions for a ceasefire, including the release of prisoners and financial support, while Israel demands an end to rocket fire and lasting security.

Palestinians in Gaza celebrated a new reconciliation deal between Fatah and Hamas, marking the third such agreement in recent years. The deal includes forming a unity government within six weeks and holding elections within six months. While many Gazans expressed joy and hope for a better future, some remained skeptical about the agreement's ability to address long-standing issues such as economic hardship and freedom of movement. The reconciliation drew criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who argued it undermines the peace process. However, many Palestinians believe that internal unity is a crucial step towards achieving lasting peace.

A broken drone, along with two packets of tobacco and a mobile phone, was discovered on the roof of a prefabricated building at Goulburn Correctional Centre in NSW. The items have been handed over to NSW police for further investigation. Corrective Services is exploring new technologies to mitigate security risks in state jails.

Adelaide, Australia, often overlooked for being quiet and small, is praised for its beautiful beaches, excellent food, and wine. The city's grid-like streets are reminiscent of Christchurch, its sister city. Highlights include Fino Vino, an urban wine bar, the Adelaide Central Market for local produce, and the German heritage-listed town of Hahndorf for authentic German cuisine. The Adelaide Hills offer hiking opportunities, while local beaches like Henley Beach provide stunning sunsets. Air New Zealand offers direct flights to Adelaide from Auckland.

With the trans-Tasman bubble open, New Zealand offers a variety of travel experiences reminiscent of global destinations. Highlights include whale watching in Kaikoura, urban exploration in Wellington's Te Aro neighborhood, alpine adventures at Tongariro, and geothermal relaxation in Rotorua. The article emphasizes the unique cultural and natural attractions of New Zealand, showcasing its diverse offerings from Maori culture to modern hospitality.

New Zealand offers a variety of destinations that can evoke the experience of international travel, from whale watching in Kaikoura to urban exploration in Wellington's Te Aro neighborhood. The article highlights the Whale Watch company, owned by the Ngati Kuri people, and the Intrepid Hotel, which features local artwork. It also describes the Chateau Tongariro Hotel's historic charm and the geothermal attractions of Rotorua, including the Hell's Gate spa and the opportunity to immerse in Maori culture. The piece suggests that New Zealand's diverse landscapes and cultural offerings provide a world tour experience without leaving the country.

A new wave of coronavirus infections has led to a six-week lockdown for 5 million people in Melbourne, Australia, as authorities attempt to control the surge in cases. The lockdown includes restrictions on movement and the closure of certain businesses. The resurgence is partly attributed to complacency and failures in infection control, particularly in hotel quarantine. Experts highlight the virus's explosive potential and the challenges in managing contact tracing and protecting vulnerable populations. The lockdown raises concerns about Australia's economic recovery, with Prime Minister Scott Morrison expressing hopes for easing restrictions.

Paul Parker, a volunteer firefighter from Nelligen, New South Wales, became the face of Australia's summer of bushfire discontent after his televised expletive-laden criticism of Prime Minister Scott Morrison went viral. Parker accused Morrison of inadequate support for volunteer brigades and faced repercussions from the Rural Fire Service (RFS), which he claims led to his dismissal, a claim the RFS disputes. The incident highlighted the strain on Australia's volunteer firefighting force and sparked debate over the country's climate policies and the sustainability of the volunteer system amid worsening fire seasons.

Three Americans died when their aerial water tanker, operated by Coulson Aviation, crashed while battling bush fires in New South Wales, Australia. The Lockheed C-130 Hercules was carrying fire retardant when it went down near Cooma. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash. The incident adds to the toll of firefighters killed during Australia's unprecedented bush fire season, which has claimed over 30 lives and destroyed more than 2,500 homes. Coulson Aviation grounded its fleet to reassess safety conditions. The U.S. and Australia have a long-standing agreement to assist each other in firefighting efforts.