Focus on ‘human catastrophe’ of Gaza war, not politics
The federal government needed to focus more on addressing the "human catastrophe" in Gaza rather than fighting over politics, an independent senator says.
international relations
PM ‘wishes the US well’ after Trump’s guilty verdict
The Australia-US alliance exists between nations and not just individuals, the PM says after former president Donald Trump was found guilty on felony charges.
Defeating Russia doesn’t mean we attack China: minister
Defence Minister Richard Marles will use a major speech to call on China to put greater pressure on Russia to end its invasion of Ukraine.
Wong calls out ‘unacceptable human suffering’ in Rafah
The Australian government has been urged to take a stronger stance against Israel after 45 people were killed in an airstrike that lit a blaze at a tent camp.
Next governor-general to meet King Charles in London
The next governor-general will visit King Charles in London as discussions about his planned Australia tour continue, amid issues around his health.
Palestinian visas in the lurch as recognition bid fails
Parliamentarians are calling on the government to give Palestinians the same visa rights as Ukrainians as a bid to recognise a state fell flat in parliament.
Police issue ultimatum to student Gaza protest
Police could soon arrest student protesters at the Australian National University after the group refused orders to dismantle their pro-Palestine encampment.
No Israel-Hamas equivalence: foreign affairs department
Australia's Foreign Affairs department says it respect the International Criminal Court but "there is no equivalence between Israel and Hamas".
Morrison’s meeting with Trump assuages AUKUS fears
Former prime minister Scott Morrison's AUKUS talks with Donald Trump were met with a "warm reception", soothing worries over the defence alliance's future.
China trade block drop on cards as premier visits
The remaining trade impediments against Australian lobster and abattoirs could be dropped ahead of a trip by the Chinese premier and commerce minister.
Australia vague on UN vote but backs Palestinian state
Though Australia will one day recognise the state of Palestine, the government says, its position on a Palestinian bid to the United Nations remains unclear.
Defence chief rejects China’s helicopter spy claim
Australia's defence force chief has defended the actions of a navy helicopter that China launched flares against and then accused of spying.
‘Terrible tragedy’: PM mourns brothers killed in Mexico
The prime minister has offered his sympathies to the family of two Australian brothers, after they fell victim to Mexico's violent crime.
‘Truly loved’: parents pay tribute to murdered sons
The parents of two Australian brothers murdered in Mexico have mourned their beloved sons as they prepare to bring them home.
Defence budget boost as New Zealand looks to ‘step up’
Foreign affairs and defence will get a funding boost in the first budget of New Zealand's new government despite campaign pledges to shrink the public service.
Solomons picks China-friendly Manele as new PM
Jeremiah Manele is the Solomon Islands' new prime minister after a vote by MPs that suggests the Pacific nation will maintain close ties with Beijing.
Bob Carr to sue Winston Peters over China claim
New Zealand opposition leader Chris Hipkins has called on Winston Peters to be stood down as foreign minister after a potentially defamatory swipe at Bob Carr.
Russia urges action to counter US-led influence in Asia
Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu says Russia should step up military exercises in Asia as the US seeks to extend its influence with AUKUS and the Quad.
Bob Carr slams AUKUS in warning to New Zealand
New Zealand should not align with AUKUS, Australia's former foreign minister Bob Carr says, so long as the US pursues a "primacy"-based foreign policy.
PM decries Iran attack as ‘grave threat’ to Middle East
As Iran launches dozens of drones and missiles at Israel, the prime minister has condemned the move and warned it could further devastate the region.
Helen Clark warns New Zealand off ANZUS return
New Zealand leaders need to "keep their nerve" and not fall under Washington DC's influence according to Helen Clark, who senses a major foreign policy shift.
China drops heavy tariffs against Australian winemakers
China has abolished heavy tariffs on Australian wine that were imposed at the height of diplomatic tensions in 2020.
Minister sinks talk of Trump torpedo for nuclear subs
Cold water has been poured on claims a Donald Trump presidency would threaten Australia's acquisition of nuclear powered submarines.
Australia calls on Israel to let humanitarian aid flow
A UN Security Council resolution for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and increased humanitarian aid into the besieged strip has been backed by Australia.
NZ calls out China-backed cyber attack on parliament
China remains a "very good friend", New Zealand's intelligence minister says, despite a Beijing-backed cyber attack on the NZ parliament and MPs.
Wine being chilled to toast possible end to China beef
There is cautious optimism from Australian producers that a landmark visit by China's foreign minister could signal the end of punitive trade barriers.
New Zealand defies China on AUKUS, Pacific engagement
New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Luxon is set to visit China after an invitation from visiting Foreign Minister Wang Yi.
‘Frank’ China-Australia talks part of ongoing progress
Managing differences and focusing on shared interests will be key as China and Australia work to stabilise their formerly turbulent relationship.
Fiji upholds China policing agreement: media report
Fiji has "restored" a decade-old police co-operation deal with China that had been put on hold by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, an Australian news site says.
Tariffs, human rights on agenda for Chinese visit
Foreign Minister Penny Wong will host Chinese counterpart Wang Yi as Beijing prepares to remove trade impediments against Australian wine.
China moves to dump tariffs on $1b wine exports
China has recommended dropping tariffs on Australian wine products weeks ahead of a crucial deadline.