What we learned; Thursday 16 January
That’s where we’ll leave the blog for today, but first let’s recap the main events:
NSW commuters have again been hit with significant delays and cancellations on the rail network due to ongoing industrial disputes.
The federal government and opposition have welcomed a ceasefire deal for Gaza, with hopes it will lead to longer term peace in the region.
The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, announced a small reshuffle, to replace Bill Shorten, with four women being promoted.
Wild weather has been lashing parts of the country, including warnings from the BoM for the Gold Coast area, which is facing damaging winds, hail and heavy rainfall.
The unemployment rate rose slightly to 4% in December, but the ABS figures also showed there was strong job creation.
Updated
Australian shares rally on renewed hopes for interest rate cuts
The Australian share market has rallied after US government data showed inflation cooled more than expected in December, raising hopes the Federal Reserve will continue cutting interest rates, AAP reports.
The benchmark S&P/ASX200 index today gained 113.7 points, or 1.38%, to 8,327.0, while the broader All Ordinaries climbed 112.3 points, or 1.33%, to 8,569.1.
The Australian dollar meanwhile, approached a one-week high against the greenback, buying 62.01 US cents, from 61.88 US cents at the close of business on Wednesday.
Updated
