Section
State and federal election coverage, parliamentary debates, party leadership and policy announcements from Canberra and the states. Summaries updated every two hours.
Australian politics moves fast. This section tracks parliamentary debates, election campaigns, party leadership changes and policy announcements from Canberra and every state capital. From Question Time exchanges to preselection battles and legislative reform, our summaries cut through the noise to give you the key facts. Coverage spans the major parties, crossbenchers and the issues that drive political debate in Australia, sourced from the country's leading political reporters.
Victorian Liberal Party president Phil Davis warns that the party risks failure in the upcoming election if it adopts a 'One Nation-lite' approach. He emphasises the need for internal unity and a clear direction to secure electoral success.
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Diesel prices in Australia continue to rise, with 3.4% of service stations reporting no diesel availability as of Monday. Energy Minister Chris Bowen warns against a social media trend of using cooking oil as fuel, while the government supports the development of biofuels like biodiesel.
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Labor MPs and doctors call for a redesign of the NDIS, highlighting that over 40 per cent of participants now have lower support needs. This comes as new data reveals significant changes in the demographics of the $50 billion scheme. They argue that the current system does not adequately address these shifts.
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Braised chickpeas with chorizo and greens is a simple, hearty dish featuring smoky chorizo and tender chickpeas. It is recommended to serve with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce.
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Moira Deeming secures the top position on the Victorian Liberal ticket after running unopposed, despite being dropped during a preselection challenge. Meanwhile, Energy Minister Chris Bowen comments on the nation's fuel supply, stating reserves are in 'pretty good' condition.
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Victoria's Inspector-General for Emergency Management delays the inquiry into last summer's bushfires, which resulted in one death, over 300 destroyed homes, and the burning of 400,000 hectares. The inquiry is now set to begin later this year, raising concerns as the region prepares for an El Niño summer.
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Victoria's Inspector-General for Emergency Management delays the inquiry into last summer's bushfires, which resulted in one death, over 300 homes destroyed, and 400,000 hectares burnt. The inquiry is now set to begin later this year, raising concerns as the region prepares for an El Niño summer.
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Macdonaldtown station in Sydney is noted for its eerie atmosphere and intriguing history. Visitors report unusual sightings and sounds, contributing to its reputation as a spooky location. The station's unique features and stories attract curiosity from both locals and tourists alike.
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Voters on the Mornington Peninsula prepare for a significant election on April 5, 2026, marking the first of two polls in seven months. This election features a complex three-way race that could influence the broader state elections. Candidates and issues are expected to shape voter turnout and preferences.
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The federal government identifies the NDIS as crucial to its budget savings plan, as it has become the second-fastest growing expense. Ministers express concerns that the scheme may lose its social licence without significant reforms. The peak body urges providers to adapt to these changes.
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Macdonaldtown station in Sydney is noted for its eerie atmosphere and unusual history. Visitors report strange occurrences and a sense of unease, contributing to its reputation as the city's spookiest train station. The station's unique features and ghost stories attract curiosity from locals and tourists alike.
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Voters on the Mornington Peninsula prepare for a critical election on April 5, 2026, marking the first of two polls in seven months. The upcoming vote features a complex three-way race that could significantly influence the state's political landscape.
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Gareth Evans highlights six key factors that established Bob Hawke's government (1983-1991) as a benchmark for reform in Australia, noting the significant contributions of Paul Keating. While the Howard Coalition government (1996-2007) had its supporters, it lacked the same level of excitement and achievement, according to Evans.
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A selection of cartoons published on April 6, 2026, showcases the day's news through the creative lens of various artists and illustrators. The collection reflects current events and societal themes, providing a humorous and insightful commentary on the issues of the day.
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A selection of cartoons published on April 6, 2026, showcases the day's news through the lens of various artists and illustrators. These creative interpretations highlight current events and societal issues with humour and satire.
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Nigel Farage's Reform UK party announces an energy bill giveaway, aiming to attract attention and support. The promotional strategy resembles viral social media content, featuring dramatic visuals and personal interactions with beneficiaries. Critics argue this tactic distracts from deeper issues within British politics.
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Xavier Giannoli's film Les Rayons et les Ombres explores the complex life of French actor Corinne Luchaire, who became a Nazi collaborator during World War II. The narrative unfolds through her reflections on her father's treason and the impact of her choices, highlighting the painful truths of the era. The film raises sensitive questions about complicity and morality in wartime France.
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Women MPs in Australia face severe threats of violence, which undermines their participation in public life and democracy. Urgent measures are needed to protect these representatives and encourage more women to engage in politics. The ongoing situation highlights the need for systemic change to ensure safety and equality in political representation.
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Women MPs face severe threats of violence, impacting their participation in public life. Experts warn that this trend undermines democracy and call for immediate measures to protect women in politics. Without action, the representation of women in leadership roles may decline further.
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The Albanese government expresses optimism that the Middle East conflict is nearing its end, despite Donald Trump's warning of severe consequences for Iran. This sentiment comes amid ongoing tensions and military actions in the region. The situation remains fluid as international responses evolve.
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Andrew Thorpe, son of Senator Lidia Thorpe, is among candidates running for the First Peoples’ Assembly of Victoria, marking a significant step in the state's political landscape. This election follows the signing of Australia's first treaty between a state government and traditional owners in November 2023, ushering in a new era for First Nations representation.
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Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's response to the Murphy report on online gambling, released after over 1,000 days, is criticised for lacking comprehensive measures. Advocates and experts argue the proposed reforms do not adequately address the harms of gambling advertising, particularly its impact on young people. The response is seen as insufficient to combat the normalisation of gambling.
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As Hungary prepares for a contentious election, US support for Viktor Orbán is evident with JD Vance's upcoming visit, aimed at boosting Orbán's campaign. Meanwhile, allegations of Russian interference raise concerns about foreign influence in the election. Orbán's political director confirmed the visit on social media, highlighting its significance.
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Conversations about natural hairstyles are gaining attention globally, influenced by colonial notions of 'respectability'. A recent incident in Jamaica highlights this issue, where a mother, Michelle Scott, reported her son was removed from classes due to his afro hairstyle being deemed inappropriate by school staff.
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Andrew Lethlean announces his candidacy for preselection to run for the Nationals in November, aiming to challenge Jacinta Allan. Lethlean nearly won the overlapping federal seat in the previous election. His campaign marks a significant move in the local political landscape.
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Andrew Lethlean announces his candidacy for preselection to run for the Nationals in November, following a close contest for the overlapping federal seat last year. His challenge is directed at current Victorian Minister Jacinta Allan.
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The City of Port Phillip is unable to prevent the sale of social housing units built on donated public land. A former mayor criticises the decision, calling it a breach of trust regarding the intended use of the properties for the elderly.
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The City of Port Phillip faces challenges in halting the private sale of social housing units built on donated public land. A former mayor criticises the decision, calling it a breach of trust regarding the intent of the donation. The sale raises concerns about the future of affordable housing for the elderly.
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Bally Bagayoko, the newly elected mayor of Saint-Denis, faces racist abuse following his election and calls for urgent action against race hatred in France. He highlights the increasing acceptance of racist views and stresses the need to address inequality to combat the rise of far-right ideologies ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
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A confidential report reveals that former Home Affairs secretary Michael Pezzullo acted 'recklessly' in his dealings with a Liberal powerbroker, exceeding normal public service boundaries. The investigation, which found at least 14 breaches of the government's code of conduct, led to Pezzullo's dismissal in November 2023.
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