SBS Assyrian

In this Program: Interview with Oliver Slewa about new refugees pilot program to process refugees' applications quicker if they have certain skills: ALC feature about the killing and starvation in Gaza; and in Australia Explained, the education in first nations

Student debt cut to be first bill introduced in 48th Parliament; Ozzy Osbourne dies aged 76, weeks after final Black Sabbath show; in Rugby Union, Ikitau urges Suaalii to demand ball in must-win Lions Test.

Welcome to Country opens Australia's 48th parliament; the Greens call for stronger action while supporting the government's tougher stance against Israel; in tennis, Nick Kygrios defeated in an ATP doubles match comeback.

The humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza continues to unfold. Gaza health officials say more than 59,000 Palestinians have been killed since October 7 and food scarcity is tipping into famine. As Israeli military forces press further into central Gaza, and aid routes remain blocked or under fire, the international community is again calling for a ceasefire.

Oliver Slewa from Shayna Humanitarian spoke with SBS Assyrian about a new government pilot program aimed at assisting refugees overseas who are interested in resettling in Australia, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria and conditions.

The deadliest day yet for aid-seekers in Gaza in over 21 months of war; a survey of 5,000 Australians reveals the toll of chronic pain; in sports, UK football racism

Israel launches strikes on Syria; Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Chinese Premier Li Qiang sign several agreements in Beijing: and, in sport, the 153rd British Golf tournament tees off today, with potential upsets in the mix.

A search resumes for a missing pilot and plane in the Snow Mountains; the Prime Minister talks-up Australian sport and business in the final leg of his China tour; and in cycling, Pogocar takes a tumble and Australia falls just short of victory at the Tour de France.

In this program, listen to Mr Homer Abramian discussing the role singer Even Aghasi could have played in taking the Assyrian song to an international level. Feature about diabetes implications. New Australian laws to combat hate speech. What is the role of a Justice of the Peace?

Australia and China expand trade ties with fruit deal and fresh agreements.; Childcare centres under review as sex offence charges widen; and, in sport, Adam Cerra fined under new A-F-L umpire contact rules

Anthony Albanese joins Premier Li Qiang at a business roundtable in Beijing; an end to debit and credit card surcharges in Australia is announced; and, in cricket, Australia defeats the West Indies to win the Frank Worrell Trophy.

Health experts are calling for more early action to prevent the seventh most common cause of death in Australia: diabetes. The Royal Australian College of G-Ps are urging Australians to see their doctor and make steps to change their lifestyle now to avoid long-term health struggles in later life.

Australia's economic relationship with China on the Prime Minister's agenda during his visit to Shanghai; blood and plasma donation rules in Australia changed to be more inclusive of LGBTIQ+ individuals; and, in cycling, Belgian Tim Merlier [[Merl-lee-air]] wins stage nine of the Tour de France.

Homer Abramian, a respected writer and intellectual within both the Assyrian and Persian communities, locally and internationally, advocates for greater cultural and literary engagement. He encourages Assyrian poets and readers to explore the literature—and particularly the poetry—of other cultures as a means to broaden their creative horizons and deepen their artistic expression. As an example, Abramian draws a parallel between renowned Assyrian singer Evin Agassi and the legendary French-Armenian artist Charles Aznavour, highlighting the value of cross-cultural influence in artistic development.

Finally, the Assyrian community had the chance to hear Marina Benjamin's poetry live. Marina is admired by Assyrians worldwide for her distinctive voice and powerful messages. Through her poetry, she tells stories of identity, struggle, and strength, helping to empower Assyrian women everywhere. Her boldness, courage, and beauty have made her a symbol of the modern Assyrian woman. She has inspired many by breaking barriers and showing that Assyrian women can lead, create, and express themselves freely. This event was more than just a poetry night—it was a celebration of culture, resilience, and the power of words.

The Reserve Bank widely expected to cut interest rates today; Donald Trump imposes a 25 per cent tariff against Japan and South Korea ; in sport, Alex de Minaur goes down to Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon quarter final.

Ten Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander trailblazers have been celebrated for excellence in their chosen fields at the national NAIDOC Week Awards in Perth. The annual awards ceremony honours Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who make outstanding contributions to improving the lives of people in their communities and beyond.

Victoria's new anti-hate taskforce to stop hate behaviour; Gaza talks as Israel's Prime Minister Netanyahu visits the US; and, in sport, Dutch rider Mathieu van der Poel wins stage two of the Tour de France.

Following the success of his two volumes of The Mighty Assyrians, Tony Shalalo returns with the third instalment in the series, titled The Betrayal. Shalalo says that this edition focuses on the tragic assassination of Assyrian Patriarch Mar Benyamin Shimoun and dozens of his bodyguards by the Kurdish tribal leader Simko on 3 March, 1918. Through powerful storytelling and vivid illustrations, he and his team bring to life one of the darkest chapters in Assyrian history, capturing its historical gravity with both artistic depth and factual detail.

Following the success of the first three volumes of The Mighty Assyrians, Tony Shalalo returns with the fourth instalment in the series, titled The Betrayal. Mr Shalalo says that this edition focuses on the tragic assassination of Assyrian Patriarch Mar Benyamin Shimoun and dozens of his bodyguards by the Kurdish tribal leader Simko on March 3, 1918. Through powerful storytelling and vivid illustrations, Tony and his team bring to life one of the darkest chapters in Assyrian history, capturing its historical gravity with both artistic depth and factual detail.

The Assyrian Australian Association (AAA) extended an invitation to an esteemed Assyrian poet from the United States to lead a special poetry evening, highlighting her literary talents and the inspirational themes conveyed through her work. During the official launch of the Ashurbanipal Library, SBS Assyrian had the opportunity to speak with Marina Benjamin, to explore her artistic journey and the profound influence of poetry in the Assyrian language. Benjamin will appear at a poetry night organised by the AAA on Sunday, 6 July. SBS Assyrian will be there and will bring you the highlights soon.

Calls for a national scheme for working with vulnerable people checks; the jury in Erin Patterson's triple-murder trial will resume deliberations this morning; and, in tennis, Aussie Jordan Thompson is through to the third round at Wimbledon.

Oliver Slewa, founder of Shayna Humanitarian, spoke with SBS Assyrian about a new initiative by the NSW government that offers residents the opportunity to replace their old top-loader washing machines with new 8kg front-loaders at a significantly reduced price. The program aims to promote water conservation throughout the state. Slewa also shared his recent recognition through a Global Peace Award, which he received in honour of his ongoing efforts through Shayna Humanitarian to promote peace worldwide. Click play to listen for more details.

In this program: Highlights from Assyria Day, Yousipos Sargis talks about his latest book, The History of Assyrian Drama, and in Australia Explained: The alcohol culture in Australia.

Qantas warns customers to stay alert after major data breach; World Health Organisation calls for protection of medical evacuations after medical envoys damaged in Gaza; and, in skateboarding, Arisa Trew makes history with more gold at the X Games.

Almost 30,000 people wake up without power as storms batter New South Wales; controversial welfare reforms pass their first hurdle in the UK; and, in tennis, Alex de Minaur starts his Wimbledon campaign with a statement win.

The Assyrian National Council, in partnership with the Assyrian Youth group, organised this year's Assyria Day, an initiative to encourage Assyrians in the diaspora to return to their homeland. The event was attended by representatives from federal, state, and local governments, showing strong support for the community. Speaking to SBS Assyrian, ANC President Hermis Shahen, Assyrian Youth President Breteil David, and special guest Danny Sada from Northern Iraq shared insights on the day's significance, emphasising its role in preserving Assyrian identity and inspiring future generations.

Severe storm conditions hit Australia's east coast; the Prime Minister says all efforts are being made to secure a meeting with US President Donald Trump; and, in tennis, defending Wimbledon champion Carlos Alcaraz survives a first-round scare.

The Prime Minister rules out an increase to defence spending as Penny Wong heads to the US; wildfires break out in France and Turkiye amid a heatwave in Europe; and, in football, the Matildas second game against Slovenia in Perth has resulted in a draw of 1-all.

This softcover book spans 300 pages and showcases an extensive visual archive, featuring over 700 photographs. These images capture a wide array of Assyrian theatrical moments, including stage performances, actors, dramatists, and detailed scenes from various productions. Yousipos Sarkes emphasised that his work draws on years of data collection and thousands of archival images of Assyrian plays. The book will be officially launched during the opening ceremony of the Ashurbanipal Library on Tuesday, 3 July.

The C-I-A says Iran's nuclear facilities were severely damaged in US strikes; the Opposition continues to push for Australia's defence spending to be lifted; and, in sport, the First Nations and Pasifika 15 rugby team announces its first five players

Australians arrive back home after being evacuated from Israel; the US to hold talks with Iran next week as Tehran votes to stop cooperating with the UN, and, in sport, another star out as the Montemurro era begins at the Matildas.

In this program: After the news bulletin, an interview with Marilyn Oshana about the Ashurbanipal Library opening. Dennis Suro from the Assyrian Youth is talking about Assyria Day. ALC feature about the suicide bombing at a Christian church in Damascus.

Donald Trump yet to decide on whether there will be a US strike against Iran; evacuation of Australians from Israel and Iran underway; and, in AFL, Fremantle claim victory, five matches in a row, with a resounding win against Essendon.

The Israel-Iran ceasefire holds; Scores of civilians killed in shooting at aid distribution centre in Gaza; in men's lawn hockey, the Kookaburras had nothing to laugh about in Berlin on Tuesday night as Germany stormed back to a 3-2 win.

Marilyn Oshana, team leader of the Ashurbanipal Library Project under the Assyrian Australian Association, told SBS that after years of dedicated effort, the new online Ashurbanipal Library will officially launch on 3 July 2025. According to Ms Oshana, the library now holds over 5,000 items, including books, journals, documents, and audiovisual materials. A significant portion of the printed collection has already been digitised. She also announced that two new books will be officially launched on the same day.

The Assyrian National Council is celebrating Assyria Day 2025 with a renewed spirit. The Young Assyrians, a dynamic youth-led initiative, are organising this year's celebration. Mr. Dennis Suro, the group's Vice President, spoke with SBS Assyrian to share insights into the goals and vision behind the event. He also outlined the program for this year's theme: “Return to Ashor”, highlighting its political and cultural significance and the broader message of unity and heritage.

Frensh President Macron says bombs will not create regime chamnge in Iran; New statistics reveal one in eight Australian adults, and one in six children, are now living below the poverty line; and, in sport, Mixed news for Aussie women in the lead-up to Wimbledon

A suicide bombing at a Greek Orthodox church in Damascus has killed at least 20 people and wounded more than 50, shattering Sunday Mass and reigniting fears over Syria's fragile post-Assad security. The attack, reportedly carried out by an I-S militant, struck a congregation of 350 worshippers, leaving scenes of devastation and raising questions about the new government's ability to protect religious minorities. And a warning – some listeners may find this content distressing. Click on play to listen to the interview. Click on play to listen to the report.

The full extent of damage from US strikes on Iran's nuclear sites still being assessed; safe and open airspace still a challenge in evacuating Australians from the Middle East; and, in sports, Mary Fowler nominated for two categories in the Professional Footballers' Association Awards.

Danny Sada was born and raised in the United States, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering in California. Driven by a deep connection to his heritage, he made the life-changing decision to return permanently to his ancestral homeland of Bet-Nahrain. Now residing in Duhok, Danny works with a non-governmental organization called Return Org, which focuses on supporting Assyrian communities and facilitating their sustainable return and development in their native regions. Danny has been invited as the keynote speaker for the upcoming Assyria Day event, organized by the Assyrian National Council of Australia. At the event, he will share his personal journey back to Bet-Nahrain and highlight the mission and impact of Return Org.

Foreign ministers from across Europe set for talks with their Iranian counterpart; a meeting of minds to kickstart Labor's second attempt at environmental law reform, and, in Formula One, McLaren principal flags some tough talk after the teammates' collision in Canada.

In this program: News bulletin, Interview with Oliver Slewa about Privacy awareness week, SBS Examines : Labor's new super laws, Australia Explained; Australian building and insurance.

The United States military is reportedly sending additional fighter jets to the Middle East ; Anthony Albanese meets United States officials at the G-7 after President Trump cancelled ; and in Rugby League, Laurie Daley eyes redemption as New South Wales chase back-to-back Origin titles.

Anthony Albanese's meeting with Donald Trump has been cancelled; foreign nationals have been evacuated from Tehran as aerial attacks continue for a fourth day.; and, in Tennis, early exit for Australians Alex Bolt and Chris O'Connell at the Queen's tournament in London.

16-22 June 2025 is the Privacy Awareness Week. Oliver Slewa, a lawyer and a contributor for SBS Assyrian, discusses in this podcast the significance of Privacy Awareness Week and emphasises the importance of remaining cautious and safeguarding our privacy at all times.

World leaders urge diplomatic talks to reduce tensions between Israel and Iran; a new report details the rising cost of seeing a specialist doctor ;and, in cycling, Tadej Pogacar* wins his first Critérium du Dauphiné title.

All but one passenger confirmed dead from onboard an Air India flight to London that crashed shortly after take off ; the United States reviews the AUKUS security pact with Australia and the UK; and, in football, Tottenham names to new coach to replace Australian Ange Postecoglou.

The Socceroos have qualified for the World Cup again with their victory over Saudi Arabia. Feelings are mixed between celebrating what's been achieved, and wondering how to take the next step. World Cup qualification has been achieved by the Socceroos for a sixth consecutive time .

In this program: News bulletin, interview with Counter-Tenor Robert Adam about his concert, Suzy David talking bout her journey with SBS Assyrian, SBS 50 explainer about the achievements of some in language programs

Countertenor Robert Adam has been selected as one of ten distinguished classical singers from across Australia by the Italian Opera Foundation–Australia to perform in a prestigious concert at the City Recital Hall in Sydney on 29 June 2025. Expressing his excitement and gratitude, Mr. Adam said he is honoured to be part of this special event, which he sees as a valuable opportunity for greater exposure and an important step forward in his classical music career.