Throughout all the thrills and spills of federal politics this week, the Coalition’s wilful torching of planned action on climate change escaped scrutiny.
As Malcolm Turnbull’s prime ministership collapsed, with Scott Morrison replacing him, members of his own cabinet threatened to ‘open the bottom drawer’ and release a dirt file they believed would force him out of the leadership.
After a ‘disastrous week’ for the government, Scott Morrison has emerged as Australia’s next prime minister, defeating Peter Dutton in a Liberal party room vote. Josh Frydenberg will be deputy Liberal leader.
David Leyonhjelm’s bill to permit the territories to pass assisted dying legislation was defeated despite argument it is as much about territory rights.
The South Australian government’s refusal to extend the royal commission into the Murray–Darling finds it accused of collusion with the federal government.
The government’s surprise $444 million grant to a private foundation is allegedly being used to fudge its commitment to UNESCO on Barrier Reef protection.
In a final interview as race discrimination commissioner, Tim Soutphommasane condemns politicians and media organisations for profiting from racism, and warns it will get worse. Mike Seccombe reports.
Attorney-General Christian Porter has ordered another review of the AAT, citing issues of “public trust”. It’s the latest in a crusade to shift powers from the tribunal to Home Affairs.
A Commonwealth challenge to South Australia’s Murray–Darling royal commission has become a state rights battleground with implications for the Constitution.
