A global conference in London has raised $4 billion to help vaccinate some of the world's poorest children against preventable diseases like pneumonia. Microsoft founder Bill Gates has pledged $1 billion. Australia will contribute $200 million. It's hoped the money will save more than four million lives over the next four years.

 

Syrian troops have reportedly rounded up hundreds of people in a sweep through villages near the northern town of Jisr al-Shughour. The army has seized control of the town after claiming 120 security personnel were killed there by armed gangs. Aid agencies say as many as 10,000 people have now fled into neighbouring countries. Many of them are sheltering in refugee camps on the Turkish border. 

 

Federal Labour MPs are expected to debate a motion today calling for the ban on live cattle exports to Indonesia to stay until all abattoirs there meet Australian standards. Agriculture Minister Joe Ludwig has announced a review into the live export trade. The Opposition is demanding the Government lift the ban within the next few weeks. 

 

And the man missing for more than a week in freezing conditions in the Victorian Alps is now presumed dead. Emergency crews have abandoned their search for the manager of Victoria's Barwon Prison David Prideaux.