BRISBANE — Some 150 students marched through the city on October 17 to protest against the federal government's increase to the HECS charge. Frustrated by the lack of media attention, the organisers decided to march to the large group of media waiting outside the magistrates court for the Joh Bjelke-Petersen verdict. This was very effective. The march then proceeded to the Commonwealth department building, where an attempt was made to occupy it.
PERTH — The AIDS Coalition to Unlease Power (ACTUP) held a successful public forum here on October 17 to discuss future campaigns. State health minister Keith Wilson, who has delayed a safe sex campaign aimed at young people in WA, is likely to be a focus for future actions. The forum also discussed raising ACTUP's profile and liaison with other groups who support people living with HIV and AIDS.
SYDNEY — Friends of the Finger Wharf met with the Public Works Department last week to discuss preliminary feasibility studies of various government bodies like the Arts Department using the building instead of it being demolished. "While there was nothing significant from the meeting", Friends spokeperson Susan Barley told Green Left, "subtle shifts in attitude are occuring".