Australia investigates ‘illegal’ dinner party, PM expects unemployment to double

There has been a 50% spike of virus cases in Tasmania. FMTNews

MELBOURNE: Australian officials are investigating whether an illegal social gathering of health workers is behind a spike in coronavirus cases in the island state of Tasmania, as the government forecast national unemployment to hit 10% by mid-year.

The probe came as Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison confirmed the government expects unemployment to double from the current 5.1% to 10% by the end of June, which would mark the first time it has hit double digits since 1994.However, Morrison rejected suggestions the jobless rate could soar as high as 20%.

“But it is still a big blow. I don’t want to lessen that in terms of how we speak of it. It’s a serious impact on our economy, it’s impacting people’s livelihoods and it’s heartbreaking.”

We have summarized this news so that you can read it quickly. If you are interested in the news, you can read the full text here. Read more:

fmtoday /  🏆 5. in MY

United States Latest News, United States Headlines

Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.

Muhyiddin expected to retain party presidency uncontested at Bersatu’s inaugural election | Malay MailCOMMENTARY, April 12 — Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin is expected to retain his post uncontested in the upcoming Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) election even though no date has been fixed for Bersatu’s inaugural election because of the Covid-19 pandemic. Deputy...
Read more »

Malaysian banks unmoved by global cutting of dividendsAnalysts expect lenders to maintain their policies despite the expected economic downturn. FMTNews Malaysia Bank
Read more »

GOF, marine police intensify land, water patrols at border | The Malaysian InsightAuthorities beef up motorcycle patrols to help deter illegal border crossings.
Read more »

Rising unemployment from virus fight threatens China's poverty targets | Malay MailBEIJING, April 13 ― Although China is claiming success in its battle against the coronavirus, millions have lost their jobs in the economic fallout, throwing into jeopardy an ambitious target to eradicate poverty this year. Beijing has been working to fire up the economy again after bringing it...
Read more »

‘It’s too soon’: NZ, Australia won’t ease restrictions despite virus slowdownAustralia’s health minister says the country must stay the course. FMTNews NewZealand
Read more »