10 things you need to know this morning in Australia

Good morning, folks.

The government just announced a massive $130 billion wage subsidy program to 'cushion the blow' of coronavirus job losses

The government has announced a wage subsidy of $1,500 per employee per fortnight, to be paid to employers affected by the economic downturn caused by the coronavirus.

The government has made it easier for couples to get the JobSeeker payment, increasing the partner income threshold to $80,000

The Australian government has expanded the eligibility of Centrelink payments as the coronavirus outbreak continues. Australians who lose or have lost their jobs will now be able to receive JobSeeker payments as long as their partner earns less than $80,000.

'We can't just leave them unattended for months on end': The coronavirus lockdown presents unique problems for Aussie cinemas

The film industry has been seriously impacted by the coronavirus, with cinemas in Australia ordered to shut. Some distributors are launching titles which otherwise would have been shown in cinemas on streaming and home video.

Auction sales have fallen to 'near record lows' thanks to the government's ban on gatherings – and it could put power back in the hands of buyers and renters

Auction clearance rates have plummeted in Sydney and Melbourne over the weekend, with figures expected to be finalised in the low 30s. The "near record low", according to Domain senior analyst Nicola Powell, came after live auctions were banned by the federal government last week.

The hotel sector says the use of properties as quarantine facilities could 'save' the industry, which has taken a huge coronavirus hit

The national hotel sector believes the use of properties as quarantine facilities could help save the sector, as occupancy rates slump below 10 per cent amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Australian government has released a coronavirus app and WhatsApp service to provide information on the pandemic – but some are concerned about privacy

The Australian Government has rolled out a new Coronavirus Australia app on iOS and Android, as well as a WhatsApp information service. The app provides information and advice about the coronavirus pandemic, from social distancing measures to the symptoms you should look out for.

These are the industries still hiring in Australia, as the coronavirus sends job growth into negative territory

Recruitment across Australia has plummeted to -2.8% as unemployment soars, according to new LinkedIn jobs data. Industries like education, tourism, and hospitality have suffered the most.

A rolling list of retailers that have shut their doors amid the coronavirus outbreak, including Michael Hill, Noni B and The Athlete's Foot

The coronavirus pandemic has led several retailers to close their doors. We created a list of retailers that have suspended operations, including Noni B, Michael Hill and The Athlete's Foot.

The best books to help you start saving some money – on any salary

Nonfiction books can make for a great alternative to fiction if you need some sturdy life advice. Seek out books written by financial experts with a knack for simplifying the complexities.

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