The $1.2 billion acquisition of Bushmaster vehicles is a reminder of the deep connections between the defence industry and former government ministers – and of the importance of marginal seats.
As the Albanese government refuses to be drawn on the legality of US–Israeli strikes on Iran, key advisers are seeking to frame the conflict in domestic terms.
As the Albanese government announces a $3.9 billion downpayment on the shipyard to build Australia’s promised submarines, locals on the Lefevre Peninsula are largely optimistic about the nuclear endeavour.
Defence experts say while Australia keeps meeting downpayments on the promised Virginia-class nuclear submarines, it is getting nothing in return for a deal that shows signs of failure on several fronts.
ANALYSIS: Australia’s new treaty appears to seal a commitment to a close strategic relationship with PNG and to its defence, but that’s not what the deal will deliver.
