SBS Assyrian

National Child Protection Week will be held from September 7 to 13, led by the National Association for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN). Solicitor Oliver Slewa, who has served in various NSW government and legal departments and contributed to numerous child protection seminars, spoke with SBS Assyrian about the importance of this national initiative. Mr Slewa emphasised that the week plays a vital role in raising awareness among parents about effective ways to protect and support the well-being of children.

National Child Protection Week will be held from 7–13 September, led by the National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (NAPCAN). Solicitor Oliver Slewa, who has served in a range of NSW government and legal departments and contributed to numerous child protection seminars, spoke with SBS Assyrian about the importance of this national initiative. He emphasised that the week plays a vital role in raising awareness among parents about effective ways to protect and support the wellbeing of children

A wave of nation-wide anti-immigration rallies have swept Australia's capital cities, with thousands joining marches and clashing with police and counter-protesters across the country. Organisers say the events were calling for an end to what they consider "mass migration" into Australia, while neo-Nazi groups infiltrated a number of the events to stir up chaos.

Politicians unite to denounce anti-immigration rallies; Hamas spokesman Abu Ubayda killed in Israeli strike on Gaza; and, in F-1 Racing, Oscar Piastri takes F1 title lead with a Dutch Grand Prix win.

Whistleblower Richard Boyle spared jail, after exposing unethical debt-collection practices at the A-T-O.; the federal government outlines plan to abolish 500 so-called nuisance tariffs; and, in football, Manchester United sink to a new low, with an embarrassing loss to League Two team Grimsby Town.

In this program: Highlight from the premier of the Assyrian documentary Return to Babylon: ALC feature about Pro-Palestine rallies in Australia; ALC feature about the government's early deposit scheme.

The government has already pledged to pause changes to the National Construction Code to accelerate housing supply - and now they are fast-tracking their expansion of the First Home Buyer Guarantee. While the expansion is being praised for widening access to the property market, critics say it will drive up property prices if not paired with a boost in supply.

20 killed in a strike on a Gaza hospital that Israel claims was a tragic accident; a push for renewed debate of net zero in the federal coalition; and in sport, two-time Wimbledon champ Petra Kvitova's career over, after she's knocked out of the U-S Open.

Penny Wong says the cutting off of relations with Iran serves as reminder to protect Australia's democracy; Police still hunting for a man suspected of fatally shooting two officers in regional Victoria; and, in tennis, Alexi Popyrin [[alexy poppa-rn]] dreaming big after his first round win at the U-S Open

The Assyrian community came together for the Australian premiere of the French-Assyrian documentary Return to Babylon. The film tells the story of an Assyrian-French family visiting their homeland in Hakkari(Turkiya) and to northern Iraq. After the screening, SBS Assyrian spoke with community members, who shared their feelings and how they related to the family's journey shown in the documentary.

People have turned out in huge numbers for nationwide protests against Israel's military actions and restrictions on aid into Gaza. The marches in more than 40 locations nationally were backed over 250 community organisations, including unions and prominent public figures. It comes days after famine was declared in Gaza City, where Israel is poised to intensify its military assault.

Estimates hundreds of thousands of people marched nationwide in support of Palestinians; Labor faces battles on health, housing, wages and foreign policy as parliament returns...and, in Rugby League, Tigers' finals dream shattered by Cowboys' late blitz at Leichhardt Oval.

Benjamin Netanyahu repeatedly attacks Anthony Albanese; N-D-I-S reform on the agenda at the economic roundtable in Canberra: and. in sport, World number one Jannik Sinner with health worries ahead of the U-S Open

Benjamin Netanyahu repeatedly attacks Anthony Albanese; N-D-I-S reform on the agenda at the economic roundtable in Canberra: and. in sport, World number one Jannik Sinner with health worries ahead of the U-S Open

Israeli protesters march along the border, as the Israeli military begins its assault on Gaza City; a search is underway for two men who are missing after a car crashed into a river in northern Sydney overnight; and in rugby, Walleroos players Faitala and Manu'a Moleka lean on their sisterly bond in preparation for the beginning of the Women's Rugby World Cup this weekend.

In this bulletin: After weeks of anticipation, the federal government's three-day economic roundtable kicks off in Canberra; President Donald Trump and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are upbeat following peace talks at the White House; and, in sport, Tennis world number one Jannik Sinner is out of the Cincinnati Open final after just 20 minutes.

In this program, Tania Nissan discusses the French production documentary "Return to Babylon," the third and final episode featuring Homer Abramian, and a feature about the historic meeting between Presidents Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in Alaska.

In this final episode, Mr. Abramian reflects on his efforts over the past ten years to establish Cyrus Online University. He explains that he chose the name in honor of King Cyrus the Great (600–530 BC), renowned for his knowledge and fairness. However, Mr. Abramian expresses deep disappointment that no Assyrian organisation supported his vision to include an Assyrian faculty in this university. His goal was not only to teach the Assyrian language, but also to preserve and promote Assyrian literature, art, history, traditions, and customs.

Israel's prime minister accuses his Australian counterpart of betraying Jews; Spain is facing one of its worst wildfire seasons in decades; And in the AFL, Adelaide's Izak Rankine awaits ban decision today over homophobic slur.

Tania Nissan is the coordinator and facilitator for the French-Assyrian documentary Return to Babylon, which will be screened at Hoyts Cinema in Wetherill Park. She spoke to SBS Assyrian about the film's story and what audiences can expect. Tania believes the documentary will leave lasting emotional memories, as it reflects on the experiences of an Assyrian-French family revisiting their homeland through powerful storytelling.

European leaders say security guarantees will be top priority at a White House meeting aimed at ending the war in Ukraine; the loss of a star known for Superman and Priscilla, Queen of the Desert; and, and, in sport, the Tigers keep their N-R-L finals dreams alive.

In the early hours of tomorrow morning ((SATURDAY MORNING AUSTRALIAN TIME)), Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin will sit down for a one-on-one meeting in Alaska, talks the US President hopes will lead to a ceasefire in Ukraine. The Russian leader has praised what he called ‘sincere efforts' by the US to end the war… and floated the prospect of a nuclear arms deal. Kyiv and its European allies have urged Trump not to make any deals that carve up Ukrainian territory and put the continent's long-term security at risk.

Protests over the targeted killing of journalists by Israel in Gaza; a Business Council plan to cut $1 billion worth of red tape in Australia; and, in tennis, Jordan Thompson to lead Australia's Davis Cup qualifier against Belgium next month...

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley [[lee]] has renewed calls by her party for the Prime Minister to meet with Donald Trump face to face; today's job figures show Australian women's participation in the workforce has hit a record high; and, in pro-surfing, Australian surfers dominate at Teahupo'o reef to take out Tahiti Pro titles.

In this program: Interview with Homer Abramian about IRAN and the latest developements; Interview with migration agent Valentine Aghajani about changes in immigration rules and in Australia Explained, we will be talking about owning a pet in Australia

Police operation underway at Sydney Airport after gun fired amid arrest; Australia and 23 other countries call for Israel to urgently boost aid access to Gaza amid starvation crisis; and in sport; P-S-G coach Luis Enrique says dropping Gianluigi Donnarumma from European Super Cup squad a difficult decision.

Migration agent Valentine Aghajani spoke with SBS Assyrian about the latest updates from the Department of Immigration regarding refugee and migrant visas. She emphasised the importance of using ImmiAccount — the department's online visa application system — rather than sending paper applications by mail. Ms Aghajani says, according to immigration instructions, applicants must wait at least 6-7 weeks to get a confirmation from the immigration department that their application has been received.

In this episode, Mr. Homer Abramian explained that “Iran,” pronounced (Eye-Ran), has been used for thousands of years, and that “Persia” is derived from the Iranian language (Parsi). He believes It is an inaccurate name and has no relation to race. Mr Abramian believes fears of regime collapse leading to civil war or separatism are hard to happen, noting that Iran's diverse nationalities are bound by intermarriages, shared identity and a common commitment to national unity despite dissatisfaction with the ruling regime.

Critics of Australia's planned recognition of Palestine say the government should address the safety of the Jewish community; protests in the West Bank after the targeting and killing of a journalist and colleagues in Gaza; and in AFL, highly awarded Fremantle midfielder Nat Fyfe announces his retirement..

Israel's Prime Minister confirms phone call with Donald Trump over new military plans in Gaza; The Albanese Government marks 100 days of its second term; and in football, Crystal Palace takes the Community Shield, after a tight match against Liverpool...

In this program: Interview with Oliver Slewa about the homelessness awareness week: repeats SBS Assyrian 50 years with first program presenter Nille Davoodi: in Australia Explained. Is Australia's tap water safe to drink?

The New South Wales Parliament to vote on expelling disgraced MP Gareth Ward; Supporters of Kathleen Folbigg savage a two million dollar compensation payout; and in sport, mounting speculation that a South Sydney winger could be the new PNG franchise's first signing.

Australian Diplomats say a failure to recognise a Palestinian state would be rewarding Israel; Donald Trump announces 100 per cent tariffs on semiconductor chips; in sport, former Palestinian football captain Suleiman Obeid reportedly killed by Israeli forces while waiting for aid

Uncertainty over trade as US tariffs come into effect;The shooting death of a former police officer sparks fears of a gang war in Melbourne; in golf, Grace Kim tees up for the Women's British Open, with nine other Australians.

The Prime Minister has a call with the President of the Palestinian Authority; further arrests possible, after a Chinese national in Canberra is charged with foreign interference; in the N-R-L, Melbourne Storm apologises to members of the Wurundjeri community, after cancelling a Welcome to Country ceremony earlier this year.

In this program: Interview with Emmanuel Sada from Assyrian Democratic Movement about Assyrian Martyrs Day commemoration; Homer Abramian talks about his lecture about the Mistakes made by Assyrian leaders before and after WWI, and, from ALC features, a report about the Pro Palestine Harbour Bridge rally

Homelessness Week 2025, runs from 4–10 August. SBS Assyrian contributor Oliver Slewa sheds light on this critical issue, discussing the underlying causes of homelessness and exploring the actions that can be taken to support those affected.

Thousands of Queensland teachers strike over pay and conditions; US House committee subpoenas Clintons as Epstein investigation continues; in sport, North Melbourne embrace pressure of being reigning AFLW premiers.

A historic march across the Sydney Harbour Bridge has become a powerful image of a nationwide protest movement in support of Palestinians in Gaza. More than 90,000 people braved rainstorm conditions to walk the bridge and call for the Australian government to sanction Israel for their military actions in Gaza and the restriction of aid to the territory.

The Assyrian Democratic Movement, in collaboration with the Assyrian Organisations Alliance, will commemorate Assyrian Martyrs Day on Thursday, 7 August, at the Assyrian Cultural and Sports Club. This solemn occasion honors the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the Assyrian cause. Invitations have been extended to representatives across all levels of government, including local, state, and federal Members of Parliament. Mr. Emmanuel Sada, representing the Assyrian Democratic Movement, spoke to the program and emphasized the enduring significance of this day for the Assyrian community—both as a tribute to the fallen and a reminder of the resilience of a people striving to preserve their identity and rights.

The Assyrian Charity and Educational Committee is proud to host a special presentation by esteemed scholar Mr. Homer Abramian—a distinguished Assyrian intellectual renowned for his deep knowledge of Assyrian history and expertise in Iranian literature and historical studies. The event will take place on Sunday, 17 August 2025, at the Ur-Ashur Club. In his address, Mr. Abramian will explore the critical missteps made by early Assyrian leadership and reflect on the valuable lessons they offer. His presentation aims to inspire the younger generation to understand the past in order to build a more informed and resilient future—one that does not repeat the errors of history.

The PM seeks a phone call with Benjamin Netanyahu, as Australia increases its aid funding for Gaza; the size of the Australian defence force grows for the first time in almost four years; in cycling, Australian Sarah Gigante reflects on missing out on a podium place at the end of the Tour de France Femmes

Canada, the United Kingdom and France have all now announced plans to recognise Palestine as a state at the United Nations General Assembly in September, moves they frame as moral imperatives and strategic necessities. The announcements have sparked sharp debate at home and abroad amid growing desperation in Gaza as famine looms.

Millions of students will have their debts reduced, after a HECS debt bill passed through parliament; Israel under increasing pressure over Gaza, ahead of U-S talks in coming hours; in swimming, Harrison Turner claims Australia's first-ever world championship medal for 200 metre butterfly ...

In this program: Interview with Simon Shahen about joining the airforce; Interview with Hermiz Shahen about Assyrian Martyrs Day at the NSW Parliament, and Australia Explained about DIY.

Israel condemns the UK's ultimatum to support Palestinian statehood; economists say today's consumer price index announcement could prompt an interest rate cut; in cycling, Dutch rider Lorena Wiebes stormed to her second consecutive stage victory at the Tour de France Femmes.

Five people killed in Bangkok market shooting; manhunt underway after anti-Israel activists vandalise Melbourne freight offices; in swimming, Kaylee McKeown to face Regan Smith in backstroke final at World Championships.

Simon Shahin spoke with SBS Assyrian about his journey to joining the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). He shared that his motivation stemmed from a desire to serve and give back to Australia — a country that welcomed him and his family after they fled the war and devastation in Syria. Arriving with his Assyrian family a decade ago, Mr. Shahin faced many challenges, including trauma, a language barrier, and adjusting to a new homeland. Despite these obstacles, he persevered, studied diligently, earned a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, and ultimately fulfilled his goal of joining the RAAF.

This year's commemoration of the 7th of August Assyrian Martyrs Day will take place at the New South Wales Parliament House. Mr. Hermiz Shahen, President of the Assyrian National Council, informed SBS Assyrian that invitations have been extended to most members of the NSW Parliament, and a number of representatives are expected to attend the memorial event. Dr. Anahit Khosroeva, a distinguished guest from the United States, will deliver the keynote address. The event is scheduled for Wednesday, August 6, 2025.

The UN's food agency repeats the call for a broader ceasefire in Gaza; Federal MPs to debate net zero targets ; in Formula One, Englnad retains its title as Women's European Championship

Australia lifts its ban on U-S beef imports, as it negotiates tariff exemptions; student debt cut to be first bill introduced in 48th Parliament; Jess Skinner confirmed as Australia's full-time women's rugby league coach ahead of the 2026 World Cup.