Mr Obama warned failure to pass the bill would reward insurance firms that had "run amok" at the expense of ordinary Americans.
Fiery Obama drums up health care votes
US president Barack Obama declared Democrats were on the cusp of history after a century struggling for health reform, amid cresting excitement in Congress ahead of a weekend vote. More
Features and Analysis
Taliban 'setback'
The former head of the UN's mission to Afghanistan, Kai Eide, has criticised Pakistan for arresting senior members of the Taliban.
Peace demand
Israel has been told to stop building settlements and set a target for peace with the Palestinians by 2012.
BA strike
Thousands of travellers will have their plans disrupted when British Airways (BA) cabin crew go on strike today.
Secret trial
China has refused a request to give Australian officials access to the entire court proceedings during the trial of Stern Hu.
Obama no show
United States president Barack Obama says he greatly regrets having to delay his planned trip to Australia and Indonesia next week.
Google vs China
Google will reportedly pull out of China on April 10, after a spat over censorship with the government.
'Jihad Jane' in court
A US woman who called herself 'Jihad Jane' has pleaded not guilty to charges of providing material support to terrorists and conspiring to kill in a foreign country.
Tuna ban blocked
Japan has sunk a proposal at a United Nations meeting in Qatar to ban the export on Atlantic bluefin tuna.
World Top Stories
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New Zealand: Black Caps on the ropes
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New Zealand: Aussies tighten grip
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New Zealand: Aussies declare in Wellington
- Somalia: Dutch navy frees suspected pirates
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Afghanistan: Taliban arrests a 'setback' to peace process
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United States: Fiery Obama drums up health care votes
- Sierra Leone: Minister denies reports of deadly mine collapse
- South Africa: Violence flares as hip hop artist bailed
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United Kingdom: BA strike to ground thousands
- Taiwan: Robbers placed job ad for accomplices
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Celebrating 70 years
Radio Australia celebrates 70 years of international broadcasting
