Perth morning briefing

New US ambassador confirmed after nearly two years vacant

Morning, Perth. Cold and drizzly out there, but there's plenty to catch up on.

Weather

13C, Heavy drizzle

New US ambassador to Australia finally gets the nod to head to Canberra
The US Senate has confirmed former Republican congressman Dave Brat to become ambassador to Australia, filling a diplomatic post that has been empty for nearly two years.
watoday.com.au
‘Never seen so many grown men cry’: The everyday Aussies who can’t afford another disaster
Many Australians are struggling to afford recovery from climate-linked disasters, with experts arguing that adaptation and preparation must become central to climate change discussions, not simply reactive responses.
watoday.com.au
What happens when crime is no longer paying for our real estate?
New money laundering restrictions in the property sector have finally arrived and may be contributing to the ongoing real estate slump.
watoday.com.au
Money, drugs and affection used to lure children into crime
Residential care facilities in Victoria are being used by adult offenders as recruiting grounds to target young people and condition them for crime using money, drugs and affection.
watoday.com.au