Don Farrell’s power extends to every ministerial office. The PM relies on him factionally and strategically – and will benefit from an ambitious plan to expand the parliament.
ANALYSIS: The prime minister’s flattery of Donald Trump may be about preserving US relations, but he ought to focus on leaders who will really shape Australia’s future.
A couple’s campaign following the death of their newborn has inspired changes to the Fair Work Act, to help close gaps between the public and private sectors in support for bereaved parents.
As Barnaby Joyce threatens to destroy the Nationals, those close to him say he is smarting at the party leader he claims to have made and by whom he was ‘repaid with exile’.
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.
A fracturing of the Liberal right faction has created chaos within the party, leading to what MPs have called ‘incredible ... damage’ to the Coalition’s reputation and prospects.
The Tasmanian government has dismissed yet another report advising against building a stadium on Hobart’s waterfront, this time by its own planning commission.
As the South Australian government insists beaches and seafood are generally safe from what has become the country’s largest mass marine mortality event, the mental health toll is growing.
