Page 2 - Sandra Fulloon News Today

Diwali is being celebrated across the world, often to the beat of a traditional drum called a dhol. And one female dhol player is working to break down traditional barriers for other women. This story from Sandra Fulloon is a collaboration with SBS Malayalam and SBS Hindi.

Aid agencies are calling for more international aid to support more than 110,000 people affected by Afghanistan’s recent earthquakes. However, support for the ongoing humanitarian crisis is being overshadowed by conflict in the Middle East, according to an Australian charity that is providing emergency relief.

Social enterprises provide work for many disadvantaged groups, including refugees and asylum seekers. With more displaced people arriving this year, Australia’s 12,000 social enterprises will play a vital role.

In Australia, around 1.5 million people care for someone living with dementia – and there is no cure. Dementia affects thousands of children, also impacting the parents who support them. While experimental treatments offer some hope, a new report calls for an urgent increase in funding for research and support.

The death of 22-year-old Mahsa 'Jina' Amini while in the custody of Iran's morality police sparked a wave of anti-government protests a year ago. For Marta, who migrated to Australia after being detained by the same police force, the memories remain vivid.

Australia’s rental crisis is forcing some people to surrender their pets, while other animals are being abandoned to die a "terrible death", according to animal welfare advocates. One woman is trying to change that.

An Australian woman who learned to dance flamenco in Spain is sharing her skills with the world in a major feature film. Marina Tamayo's performance draws on ancient traditions to tell a modern story about displacement and homelessness.

Australia's $27 billion fashion industry sends more than 200,000 tonnes of textile waste to landfill each year. Some young fashion designers are working to change that, among them Sofia Abel, who migrated from Bolivia and is now making a name worldwide.

Students and business owners have expressed concern about changes to working hours that come into force on 1 July.

Australian restaurant owner Shaun Christie-David has made it his business to feed as many refugees as possible, and it's a winning recipe for success.