Axing of US beef ban sparks call for independent review
Australia's surprise decision to open the door to more US beef imports has prompted calls for an independent review amid biosecurity concerns.
Politics
‘Children starving’: Israel condemned over aid denial
Australia's most senior politicians have denounced Israel's denial of aid to starving civilians in Gaza in their strongest intervention on the conflict to date.
MP’s future in doubt after convictions for sexual abuse
A state MP has been found guilty of sexually abusing two men - including a teen - during his time in office, with a question mark now hanging over his future.
Australia, UK deepen subs commitment despite US review
Australia and the UK have strengthened ties around the AUKUS nuclear submarine pact despite the US undertaking a review of its involvement.
Culture takes centre stage in this ‘incredible’ musical
The retelling of a classic tale is bringing the cultural heritage of its 12-strong cast to centre stage in a celebration of love, storytelling and music.
Australia-UK treaty unlikely to sink subs deal with US
Commentators are being urged against over-analysing the timing of a 50-year arrangement between Australia and the UK, as the US reviews a major submarines deal.
‘Senseless violence’: boy attack fast-tracks law reform
Tough youth justice laws will be introduced "urgently" after a 15-year-old was accused of stabbing another teenager in front of shocked show-goers.
PM stares down internal push for Palestine recognition
The prime minister is facing growing pressure to recognise a Palestinian state as prominent figures within Labor's ranks issue a clarion call to action.
MPs urge changes for next generation of Australians
Two of Australia's newest MPs want to see changes both in policy and in their constituents, getting personal in their first speeches to parliament.
Banks forced to take action on high-fee accounts
Banks must ask themselves some 'difficult questions' following a review by ASIC, which has resulted in refunds totalling millions for low-income customers.
Treasurer to trumpet teamwork in face of US trade wars
Countries are being urged not to bow to Donald Trump's trade demands as Australia's treasurer prepares to meet with his global counterparts.
Stadium, debt and ferries: leaders in only debate pitch
A controversial AFL stadium, budget debt and a "reckless" no-confidence motion have headlined the sole leaders' debate of a snap state election campaign.
Dollar dazzler designs no silver bullet for housing woe
Political leaders hope a sluggish planning system can be jump-started with cheap, pre-approved architectural designs to entice developers to break ground.
‘No doubt’ about China concern despite PM’s rhetoric
The prime minister's tone on during his China trip has been defended as diplomatic and respectful as the opposition called for him to be more forceful.
Political knives sharpened for ‘very troubling’ Latham
Controversial state MP Mark Latham faces criticism from colleagues over his alleged behaviour towards women but others say they'll keep working with him.
PM confident of Australian jobs boost after China visit
The prime minister has wrapped up an almost week-long visit to China but the opposition is still calling for ties with allies like the US to be prioritised.
Final pitches for snap state election ‘nobody wanted’
Tasmanians are voting for the fourth time in seven years but the state's political turmoil is set to remain with all signs pointing to another hung parliament.
PNG NRL director stands down over corruption claims
Corruption allegations have been levelled against a businessman who helped secure $600 million in backing from the Australian government for PNG's new NRL team.
‘No confidence in Labor’: Libs seek to form government
Tasmania's Liberal leader has claimed an election victory with his party securing more seats than Labor but he will have to woo independents to govern.
Rocky road to minority power as Libs cross independents
Tasmania has delivered a hung parliament for the second time in two years, leaving its politicians to figure out who can govern and end the political chaos.
Federal parliament’s newbies are steppin’ out
A basketball player, a kidnapping consultant and a foster carer are just a few of the new faces set to fill the hallowed halls of parliament.
Post-poll kingmakers offer two leaders a path to power
Minority government talks could drag on for weeks in Tasmania after the island state's snap poll delivered another hung parliament.
Political leaders come face to face on new battleground
Anthony Albanese and Sussan Ley have stood side by side as political leaders for the first time as they prepare for federal parliament to return.
Protests take over from pageantry as parliament returns
Protests in and around Parliament House threatened to disrupt proceedings as the nation's politicians went through the traditional ceremonies of being sworn in.
Libs make first pitch to kingmakers in race to govern
A Liberal leader has made his first play to form government with balance-of-power independents after a state election that delivered another hung parliament.
Push to sanction Israel as ‘inhumane killing’ decried
Australia has been urged to sanction Israel after the government signed a statement condemning the denial of aid for starving Palestinian civilians.
Last-ditch bid in knife-edge seat might not change fate
One of the most closely fought battles of the federal election faces a legal challenge, but one expert does not expect the result to flip.
Climate ruling exposes gap in government duty of care
Australian law needs to adapt, experts say after a court ruled the Commonwealth owes no duty of care to citizens on the front line of climate change.
Trump slaps big tariff on Canada, eyes hikes for others
In the latest salvo of US President Donald Trump's trade war, he wants to hit Canada with 35 per cent tariffs and other nations with levies up to 20 per cent.
‘Free and safe’ Indo-Pacific eyed in trilateral deal
Australia, the United States and Japan have signed a trilateral deal that "sends a message" to any nation threatening safety in the Indo-Pacific.
Accused abuser worked after childcare misconduct claims
A state government has backed its handling of a childcare abuse scandal in the wake of fresh revelations about the man's worrying behaviour.