![ABC](https://web.archive.org/web/20070128171547im_/http://www.abc.net.au/pm/img/worm.gif) Latest Program:Thursday, 25 January, 2007. PM covers a broad spectrum of issues relevant to all sections of Australia's geographically and culturally diverse community. It looks behind political, economic, industrial, business, social, cultural, rural, regional and arts stories. Below is the latest program summary and transcripts are published as soon as they become available. You can listen to today's full program or individual reports in Real Media, Microsoft Windows Media or MP3.
Howard unveils national water action plan
It's a watershed moment for federalism: the Prime Minister's bold 10-year $10 billion plan to find a solution for Australia's water crisis. Labelling himself a climate change realist, John Howard this afternoon outlined a 10-point plan to the National Press Club. Central to it is an attempt to address water over-allocation in the Murray Darling Basin, which will require the States to hand their control over water to Canberra. The Prime Minister calls it one of our greatest national challenges. |
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States not impressed by PM's water plan timing
Premiers in the four States affected by John Howard's plans for the Murray Darling River system have been trying to put on a brave face, showing support for a national approach to water. But they're not impressed by the Prime Minister's handling of the announcement, saying Mr Howard has broken a promise to consult with the States rather than launch a hostile takeover. |
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Green groups, farmers give water plan the thumbs up
Environmentalists and farming groups have given the bulk of the Prime Minister's water package a tick of approval. They're describing the initiative as bold and visionary, and they're urging the States to work with the Federal Government to see the plan through. |
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Heffernan to lead north farming taskforce
One of the more controversial suggestions in John Howard's 10-point plan is to shift agricultural pursuits to wetter climates in the north of the country. The Prime Minister has appointed his close Liberal ally, Senator Bill Heffernan, to lead a taskforce that will consider ways to encourage farmers to move north. |
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Crowds take flags to Big Day Out
Thousands of music fans today ignored pleas that they not bring the Australian flag to today's Big Day Out festival in Sydney. Last year's event was marred when some fans wrapped in Australian flags taunted and intimidated people in the wake of the Cronulla race riots. Today, the stars of the Southern Cross easily outnumbered the stars on the stage. |
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