In Victoria, crews have been battling a large bushfire at Kent-Bruck in southwest. A number of fires were brought under control over the weekend, but the CFA is concerned that things will get worse this week as temperatures rise. In New South Wales, more than 80 fires are burning and a number are out of control, but no homes are under threat. A total fire ban is in force for the northern and southern Riverina area.

 

Overseas and Syria's President Bashar al-Assad has been mobbed by supporters in his first public address in more than six months. He's proposed a political solution to the war including a national conference to write a new constitution and fresh elections. But he says none of that will happen while opposition forces continue to take up arms against him.

 

A smoking ban comes into force today in many outdoor public areas in New South Wales. They include swimming pools, sports grounds, railway platforms and bus stops. Smokers are also forbidden to light up within 10 metres of children's playgrounds and within four metres of building entrances.