Your say: week beginning September 1

Every day, we publish a selection of your emails in our newsletter. We’d love to hear from you, you can email us at yoursay@theconversation.edu.au.

Monday September 1

Gender-affirming surgery

“Considering that people can barely afford to go to the GP anymore because so few bulk bill and it has been years since government funding has matched the costs of the GP, not to mention that Medicare still does not cover dentistry and glasses as if teeth and eyes are completely separate from the body, I really think gender-affirming surgery should be last on the list of medical procedures that are funded by tax payers.”

Felicity

Turning off AI safety features

“As a driver in rural/remote areas, lane-keeping technology is a nuisance when on unfenced roads where livestock, domestic and feral animals are likely to be encountered and avoided if possible. It is of no use also when on an unsealed road and the smoothest track has to be negotiated. Fine on multi-lane freeways.”

Rory Treweeke, FoTC

Good news?

“I have been reading your daily news feed for a couple of years now, it is my main news source, as I no longer choose to read the Weekend Australian or Courier Mail, or listen to the news on TV (I prefer to watch Antiques Roadshow, which is more joyful, and brings a smile to my face most evenings). Would it be possible to provide some happy, uplifting stories, to balance the gloom and doom at present?Just a thought.”

Lyndal Coutts, Brisbane, QLD, FoTC

Ed: We agree Lyndal, there’s been a lot of heavy news. How about a side of Bluey with your Antiques Roadshow? You could also explore the science of beautiful buildings or do a little armchair travelling to see some extraordinary wildlife.