The Federal Government would also have information. Digital TV and datacasting - I'd try the Australian Broadcasting Authority and also the government for latest news, press releases and so on. Tourism numbers - the ABS, obviously. I'd look at BBC news archives, online Balkan newspapers and possibly the UN High Commissioner for Refugees. You don't have that problem with known sources - if you're looking for information at a government site or a reputable organisation, then you know whom you're dealing with.
Search engines exist to make money from advertising.
Like banks, they're more interested in profits than services. So don't feel guilty about deserting them. Internet anxiety is created to make money for someone. Don't be sucked in. I also think it's dangerous to teach our users that they can press a button and out will come the answers they seek.