Australia condemns Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which is a violation of international law and the UN Charter. The Morrison Government has placed financial sanctions on people and entities responsible for the unprovoked and unacceptable aggression and will put restrictions on Australians investing in certain financial institutions. In addition to yesterday’s sanctions, Australia will begin imposing sanctions on oligarchs whose economic weight is of strategic significance to Moscow and over 300 members of the Russian Duma who voted to authorise the use of Russian troops in Ukraine.

We will work with like-minded countries on further consequences for Russia. Australia will continue playing its part to ensure Russia pays the high price this invasion warrants.

Australia Welcomes Back International Tourists
Australia has welcomed back international tourists this week. The return of double vaccinated international visitors will reinvigorate Australia's tourism sector, which supports 660,000 jobs and contributes over $60 billion to the economy. There are more than 1.23 million students, visitor and working holidaymaker visa holders offshore who, if vaccinated, are now able to travel to Australia. The return of international arrivals is an important step in Australia's COVID-19 recovery. 

Landmark PBS listing for Australians with leukaemia
From 1 March 2022, Australians with acute myeloid leukaemia will have access to a new treatment option through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. The Morrison Government's commitment to ensuring Australians can access affordable medicines when they need them remains rock solid.

HEAVY RAINS AND FLOODING
Our already saturated local catchments across many regions in Wright have been hit with further heavy rain over the past week. The Gold Coast, Scenic Rim, Logan and Lockyer Valley have had roads cut, swollen creeks and flooding. 

I have briefed the Federal Minister for Emergency Management on the situation across our regions. As a result, Emergency Management Australia activated COMDISPLAN. Under COMDISPLAN, the Federal Government stands ready to provide ADF support and other non-financial assistance to States and Territories as required to manage the disaster response. 

While the rain continues to fall, I urge everyone to stay aware of their surroundings and heed the advice of emergency management authorities. Please stay away from floodwaters, whether you're on foot or in a vehicle. If it's flooded, forget it.

The Federal Government will continue to monitor the situation through the National Situation Room and implement the appropriate measures to assist.