Syrians are voting in a referendum for a new constitution to end five-decade of one-party-rule.President Bashar al-Assad and his wife have cast their votes.The opposition has boycotted the poll describing it as farce but the bloodshed is continuing.Activists say 20 people have been killed in the latest fighting.

 

Back home,Victoria underworld figure Tony Mokbel is in hospital after suffering what's believed to have been a heart attack.Paramedics were called to Barwon prison yesterday when Mokbel complained about chest pains and shortness of breath.He's in a stable condition in Melbourne,Saint Vincent's Hospital.He was due in court this morning for final submissions in a change to his plea application.

 

Victoria's nurses will step up their industry dispute today.They will begin four-hour stoppages at three more hospitals, bringing the number of hospitals affected by the dispute to twelve.The eight-month long dispute is overpay and nurse to patient ratios.The work bans are in open defiance of an order by Fair Work Australia to return to work.

 

Fans are beginning to gather to get a glimpse of their favorite stars on the red carpet ahead of today's Academy Rewards Ceremony.The silent filmthe Artist is the clear favor to take out "best picture".The Artist has received ten nominations.