Background Briefing

After the terrible storms and floods, the tragedy of Myanmar unfolded before the world. The situation now is still grim. New Zealand journalist Joy Reid reports.

Maude Barlow is a water activist from Canada. In a recent talk at Sydney University she explains the virtual water trade and the critical state of water in the world.

About $500 billion flows around the world as migrant workers send money home. It's largely by-passing banks and corporations, even governments, but they all want a slice of the action. Reporter Lorena Allam.

Most people rate noise as a bigger problem than rats, drugs, or dog poo. It's highest on the list of citizen complaints, but it's listed low by councils and politicians. But noise can have cultural value too. Hagar Cohen reports.

Are you worried about the future of the environment, or war, or hordes of refugees? The solution is not to manipulate population growth. Past results have been tragic, and ineffectual. Historian Professor Matthew Connelly of Columbia University proposes some alternatives.

Google's Chrome, and others, offer easier, smoother, faster servers into their gated internet gardens, where all things are known. It's the Petabyte Age, and there be beasties. Reporter Stan Correy.

NSW is creating more space in jails for a growing number of young people. But many of them are only there waiting to go to trial. They may be there for something minor, or may even be innocent. Reporter, Erica Vowles.

Bats carry many of the nasty viruses, even SARS, Ebola, Nipah and Hendra. Scientists think bats may be using these deadly viruses in a war with other species, including horses and man. Reporter Ian Townsend.

American security laws based on where a person was born mean some Australians can't work in defence industries in Australia. It's against our laws - but it's like it or lump it. Reporter Lorena Allam.

A high number of people who get Australian permanent resident visas don't get the skilled jobs they are trained for. And there are scams aplenty in the world of international students looking for any way to stay here. Reporter, Hagar Cohen.