Australia news live: Senior gallery worker accused of funnelling $8 million in mobile phone scheme; interest rate hike still likely after jobless rise

20m ago | The Guardian | By Catie McLeod (now) and Nick Visser (earlier)

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More than 600 Qantas ground crew workers have begun a 24-hour strike this morning across the country over an escalating industrial dispute.

Qantas said that it has contingency plans in place and any impacts would be felt primarily by the airline’s freight and regional QantasLink services.

We remain focused on reaching an agreement through the bargaining process and continue to engage constructively with the union.

Australia and the Netherlands remain resolute in their commitment to pursuing truth, justice and accountability on behalf of the victims of the downing of MH17 and their next of kin.