At the same time as we look towards happier and most positive futures, it would be unconscionable not to acknowledge in this issue of the journal the situation in which humankind now finds itself, and to consider the terrible toll that the COVID-19 pandemic is having on people’s lives throughout the world. To those who have lost loved-ones, who have been struck down by the virus, who are without work or at risk of being so, who find themselves stranded in countries far from home, with borders closed, separated from families and friends, and who are suffering loss and anxiety in one or a number of a myriad of other ways—too many to mention—we extend our deepest sympathy and strongest compassion. And let’s not forget the many Australians who are still rebuilding their lives after the devastating Summer fires, and who now have the COVID-19 world phenomenon to deal with.