Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast SBS Assyrian

Australia Day, celebrated annually on 26 January, has been a national public holiday since 1994. While some Australians enjoy barbecues and citizenship ceremonies, others—particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities—view it as a day of mourning, referred to as Invasion Day or Survival Day. This reflects ongoing debates about the date's significance, given its historical associations with British colonization.

In 2021, the second line in the Australian anthem was changed from ( For we are young and free) to (for we are one and free) to reflect the tens of thousands of Australia's history. SBS Assyrian carefully translated the lyrics into Assyrian to make them more understood by new Assyrian Australians.

The Houthis released 25 hostages seized from a ship in the Red Sea; Swastikas plastered on a political billboard; and, in sport ... American Emma Navarro calls for more video replays after controversial call at the Australian Open.

SBS Assyrian spoke with several prominent members of the Assyrian community to hear their thoughts on celebrating Australia’s national day as new Australians. They also shared their views on the ongoing calls to change the date from 26 January.

Foreign Minister Penny Wong meets with the Trump administration on their first full day in office; authorities try to assure the public they're doing everything they can over antisemitic attacks; and, in tennis, Novak Djokovic fights off an injury to make the Australian Open quarter-finals and now, it's Aussie Alex De Minaur's turn.

Donald Trump promises a new golden age for the United States, as he takes office as President; police investigating another anti-semitic attack in Sydney; and, in sport, a huge night in Australian sport with Alex De Minaur through to the quarter-finals of the Australian Open, and Australia's women's cricketers retaining the Ashes.

In this episode, Yousip Bet Yousip reflects on his youth and the beginning of his political journey, which started with his involvement in the Assyrian Youth Union in Tehran. Inspired by his father’s poetry, Yousip began reciting his father’s works and eventually started creating his own poems, drawing inspiration from his mother’s storytelling.

Three Israeli hostages freed by Hamas reunited with their mothers; President Donald Trump promises a reprieve as TikTok works to restore service after US ban; and, at the Australian Open, Novak Djokovic beats Jiri Lehecka but snubs Channel Nine over offensive comments.

Israel and Hamas reach a deal on a ceasefire in Gaza; a man killed in wild storms that have hit Australia's south-east; and, in sport, charges withdrawn against a man accused of attacking an A-F-L umpire.

Israel and Hamas reached a deal on a ceasefire in Gaza; a man was killed in wild storms that have hit Australia's south-east; and, in sport, charges were withdrawn against a man accused of attacking an AFL umpire.

Unconfirmed reports an Australian man has been killed by Russian forces in Ukraine; the Prime Minister says he wants to see people held to account for committing acts of antisemitism; and, in sport, Sam Kerr appears in a British court over alleged racially aggravated harassment of a police officer.

SBS Assyrian is featuring a series on the life and accomplishments of renowned Assyrian poet, writer, and tenor Yousip Bet Yousip. In this episode, Bet Yousip reflects on his childhood and shares how his parents played a pivotal role in shaping his love for his nation and character.

STARTTS, in collaboration with the Fairfield City Museum, is hosting a workshop designed for individuals interested in learning the art of creating traditional Assyrian wedding accessories and essentials. Marel Parono, coordinator from STARTTS, shares insights into the aims and objectives of this project, emphasising its role in preserving cultural heritage and fostering community connections.

Opposition leader Peter Dutton has declared that the Liberal party is "back in town" at his unofficial campaign launch in Melbourne's east on 12 January. Dutton says cost of living, nuclear power and migration will be on top of his party's agenda if the Liberals win the election.

Qatar presents Israel and Hamas with a ceasefire draft as negotiations reach a breakthrough; immigration detention facility found to be illegally holding detainees in cells without water; and, in tennis, Nick Kyrgios's grand slam return at the Australian Open ends abruptly.

Sydney synagogue defaced in antisemitic attack; UN finds Australia violated human rights treaty over Nauru detention of asylum seekers; and, in tennis, ATP chief denies special treatment for Sinner as doping cloud hangs over Australian Open.

The UN says Australia has violated humahn rights; wildfires devastate Los Aneles; and, in port, a possible doping ban hangs over Tennis star Jannik Sinner ------

With less than a fortnight before Donald Trump returns to the White House, the president-elect is making his goals of expansionism clear. After comments about annexing Canada in recent weeks, Donald Trump is now outlining his goals of acquiring both Greenland and the Panama Canal.

Two people killed as trio of fast-growing wildfires rage out of control near Los Angeles; missing hiker expected to recount how he survived upon release from hospital; and, in sport, the manager of the French national football team set to step down.

How many items in your house have you used just once or twice? And what if you could borrow those things instead of buy them? That’s the idea behind a Library of Things — you may not find any books, but the libraries are becoming increasingly popular.

Thousands of rival protesters turned out in South Korea’s capital Seoul over the weekend despite heavy snow. They're pushing for the arrest of suspended President Yoon Suk Yeol while his supporters are demanding authorities back off. Complicating matters is the deadline on the arrest warrant for Yoon which expires at midnight local time (2am, AEST).

Justin Zaia, a student from St Narsai Assyrian Christian College, achieved an exceptional ATAR score of 99.2, placing him among the top-performing students in the country. Along with him, seven other students from the college scored over 90 in their ATAR, showcasing the high standard of education and dedication at the school. Justin has been unconditionally accepted into the University of New South Wales (UNSW), where he plans to pursue a double degree in mathematics and computer science, reflecting his passion and excellence in academics. This achievement is a testament to the hard work of the students, the dedication of the teachers, and the supportive environment provided by the college. Congratulations once again to Justin and all the high-achieving students from St Narsai College

Anthony Albanese begins campaign tour targeting key marginal seats; Donald Trump says he won't rule out using the military to acquire Greenland and Panama; and in boxing, Opetaia and Nyika face off ahead of their world title clash.

Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau resigns; Trump's election victory is formally certified by Kamala Harris; and, in tennis, Nick Kyrgios is in line to make a return at the Davis Cup.

Only one runway open at Melbourne Airport after a plane was forced to abort takeoff; Ukraine launches a new attack in Russia's Kursk region; and, in tennis, world number one, Aryna Sabalenka, says her Australian Open preparation is going to plan, after winning the Brisbane International.

Australians among the first in the world to welcome the start of 2025; new laws criminalising wage theft in Australia to come into effect; and, in tennis, Australia eliminated from the United Cup.

The world has faced a number of challenges when it comes to health this year. How did the international community has responded over the last 12 months. In January, the World Health Organisation launched an appeal for $2.5 billion dollars, to shore up its emergency fund.

An election is on its way in Australia — but just when is unclear. Your summer holiday probably won't be interrupted, but you'll need to be ready to vote by May. Unlike countries like the United States, there are no fixed dates for Australian federal elections.

A truck has crashed into crowds in New Orleans killing at least 10; new laws against wage theft come into effect; and, in tennis, Australia has been eliminated from the United Cup.

New South Wales Premier Chris Minns praises Sydney fireworks display; pay rises to come into effect for aged care workers from today; and, in football, Central Coast held to a one-all draw by Melbourne City in final game of 2024.

The Assyrian National Council — Australia (ANC) has taken on ownership and management of the Assyrian Business Awards (ABA). Their first award night will be held on 30 January 2025. Peter Esho is the vice president of the ANC and a member of the organising committee for the event. He told SBS that at this year's awards, the ANC will present a new category award for Assyrian Business man/woman of the Year to be given to an individual business that contributed to Asssyrian aid to meet different needs of the community.

Tears of joy as families welcome home those released in a prisoner swap between Russia and Ukraine; the changes in payments and laws that take effect from 1 January; and, in sport, on his comeback, Nick Kyrgios celebrates a doubles win with Novak Djokovic at the Brisbane International.

The war in Gaza has dominated international headlines this year. In August, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk drew attention to a grim milestone for the world: the deaths of 40,000 Palestinians over a 10-month period since the events of October 7 last year. It's also been a year full of twists and turns in US politics.

The Assyrian Student Association — Australia and Assyrian Cultural Youth Association hosted over a dozen Assyrian youth from Germany’s AJM for a cultural exchange. Delegates expressed gratitude for connecting with Australian Assyrian youth, exploring Sydney, and engaging with the community. SBS Assyrian interviewed AJM President Ilona Gabriel and Helena Bandar along with Edessa Shmoel, President of the Assyrian Student Association — Australia.

Former US President Jimmy Carter dies at the age of 100; investigators seek to determine the cause of South Korea's worst plane crash in 27 years; and, in tennis, Novak Djokovic calls for more transparency on doping suspensions in the sport.

Russia and Australia are investigating reports an Australian citizen has been captured fighting for Ukraine; fire danger and damaging wind warnings for Victoria, South Australia, and New South Wales; and, in cricket, Melbourne heatwave leaves Australian captain uncertain ahead of Boxing Day Test.

South Australia authorities issue fire ban for parts of the state; the United Nations warns of a famine situation in Sudan, and, in cricket, Australia could be without their most important player for the Boxing Day Test.

Travellers warned to be alert to the fire danger across Australia over the next 48 hours; Cyclone Tracy's impact on Darwin remembered 50 years on; and in, sailing, strong winds forecast for the start of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race.

It was a big year for news around the world, but there are some stories that Australians in particular won't forget. Some will forever be etched in our memories as horrific tragedies, and others were celebrated by the nation.

Türkiye calls for an end to sanctions on Syria after a meeting with rebel leaders ; Victorian bushfires continue to burn out of control ; and in football, Real Madrid claims a comfortable win against Sevilla.

Over a hundred students from St. Mary's Church Assyrian Language School celebrated their graduation this year in a joyful ceremony. The event was graced by the presence of His Beatitude Mar Melis Zaia Metropolitan, church clergymen, and proud parents. The children delighted the audience with various song performances, adding to the festive atmosphere. Outstanding students were also recognized and awarded for their achievements.

Australians return home from Vanuatu following a deadly 7.3-magnitude earthquake; a ban on protests outside places of worship, under proposed laws in Victoria; and, in sports, Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior named FIFA Player of the Year.

Australians face higher taxes and service cuts unless the government addresses debt problem; US and Arab mediators work to finalise Israel-Hamas agreement to end Gaza conflict; and, in cricket, Heat begin title defence with dominant win over Stars at the MCG.

A rise in the death toll from an earthquake in Vanautu; retired radio host Alan Jones to face court over assault allegations; Ukraine has taken responsibility for killing a senior Russian general; and, in cricket, Josh Hazlewood ruled out for the remainder of the Test series against India.

Newly elected secretary of the Assyrian Australian Association, Joe Joseph, shared details about the association's plans and projects for the upcoming year. A key priority is construction of a cultural centre, which will serve as a hub for cultural events, arts, a library, and other community activities. Joseph also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand the Ashurbanipal Library's archive digitisation project and discussed the Nimrod Simono Scholarship as part of the association's broader initiatives.

Concerns for the future of Syrian refugees after the fall of the Assad regime; a further deepening of defence and trade ties between Australia and Britain; and, in sport, Australia takes control of the Third Test against India at the 'Gabba'.

Hundreds — and possibly thousands — feared dead after a cyclone hits the French island of Mayotte; schools reopen in Syria; the Sydney Kings deliver a 93-81 NBL win over the Brisbane Bullets.

Australia among nations voting on a permanent Gaza ceasefire at the United Nations General Assembly; The Prime Minister makes an announcement on subsidised childcare; and, in sports, Football Australia says time is being taken to ensure the right person is selected as the next coach of the Matildas.

Australia is set to vote on a permanent Gaza ceasefire at the United Nations General Assembly; a former US diplomat criticises Australia's position on repatriating Australian women and children from Syria; and, in sport, Australian tri-athlete Ashleigh Gentle says she relishes the chance to compete in New Zealand.

Ten extraordinary audio recordings illustrating Australia’s cultural and political landscape have been added to the National Film and Sound Archive’s Sounds of Australia collection. The 2024 additions include the first Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Australian to use recorded sound to document Aboriginal culture; hip hop; speeches; a theme tune; the launch of what is now SBS Audio; an advertising jingle for an iconic Australian beer; and the last known recording of a now-extinct species.