Stop blaming the Navy: Shorten
Scott Morrison should stop blaming failed policy on the Navy says Opposition leader Bill Shorten
Latest
Visa freeze flop
![Immigration minister Scott Morrison and General Angus Campbell at the weekly Sovereign Borders update in the CBD Sydney
smh news
photos Ben Rushton
December 6 2013](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/20/5025683/ScottMorrisonTH-90x60.jpg)
Immigration Minister Scott Morrison addresses the media about the revoked cap on protection visas.
Car Industry
Liberal Labor split on car plan
![Weatherill slams Abbott's car plan (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/18/5019589/th-abbott-holden-drive-90x60.jpg)
Federal and South Australian Labor denounce Tony Abbott's car assistance package, but the Victorian Liberal government welcomes it as 'a good first step'.
'We have inherited from Labor gross debt'
![Treasurer Joe Hockey delivered the Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook at the National Press Club in Canberra on Tuesday 17 December 2013. Photo: Andrew Meares](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/17/5016202/HockeyMYEFO-TH-90x60.jpg)
Budget deficits could persist for a decade if no action is taken says Treasurer Joe Hockey in his Mid Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook statement. Vision: ABC.
Budget blame game
![AFR. Prime Minister Tony Abbott delivers a press Conference at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Offices in Sydney on the 15th of December 2013 Photo Dominic Lorrimer](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/16/5014190/MYEFO-TH-90x60.jpg)
Both sides of politics take aim at each other over the state of the books in tomorrow's MYEFO
Goodbye Afghanistan
![Prime Minister Tony Abbott met with troops after attending the Recognition Ceremony in Tarin Kowt, Oruzgan Province, Afghanistan to honour the 40 Australian lives lost during the 12 year conflict on Monday 28 October 2013. Photo: Andrew Meares < EMBARGOED until midnight Mon 28 Oct >](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/16/5013980/AbbottafganTH-90x60.jpg)
Prime Minister Tony Abbott announces the final Australian troops in Afghanistan have left for home.
Double blow: Holden and NBN
![Double blow: Holden and NBN (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/13/5006995/th-rishworth-parly-90x60.jpg)
A climatic final sitting week has seen the government forced to weather Holden's exit announcement and a massive recalibration of the NBN rollout.
'Predetermined outcome' for NBN review?
!['Predetermined outcome' for NBN review? (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/12/5003869/Michelle-Rowland-TH-90x60.jpg)
'The NBN was delivering on its corporate plan' insists Labor's Michelle Rowland.
Marriage equality back on senate agenda
![Marriage equality back on senate agenda (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/12/5003043/Larissa-Waters-SSM-TH-90x60.jpg)
The Greens will use the final sitting day of 2013 to champion marriage equality with a private members bill to be put before the senate today.
Labor attacks Speaker
![Labor attacks Speaker (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/11/4999491/Bernie-Ripoll-and-Bishop-TH-90x60.jpg)
Labor's Bernie Ripoll has ramped up Labor's attacks on speaker Brownwyn Bishop, accusing her of sledging opposition MPs.
Holden must show their cards
![Holden must show their cards (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/11/4999314/Josh-Frydenberg_parliament-house-TH-90x60.jpg)
'We want to see the car industry survive' insists Liberal MP Josh Frydenberg but admits the government wants to know Holden's future intentions.
Holden must stay
![Holden must stay (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/10/4996097/Pratt_Holden_TH-90x60.jpg)
Labor senator Louise Pratt believes that the importance of the car industry to the manufacturing sector means that the government has no choice but to ensure Holden remains in Australia.
Cars, Qantas and carbon
![Cars, Qantas and carbon (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/09/4992868/Leigh-and-Laming_TH-90x60.jpg)
Labor MP Andrew Leigh and Liberal MP Andrew Laming tackle the issues that are shaping the final parliamentary sitting week of 2013.
Freeze on protection visas
![Immigration Minister Scott Morrison addresses the media during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra on Wednesday 4 December 2013. Photo: Alex Ellinghauseni](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/04/4979650/MorrisonTH-90x60.jpg)
Immigration minister Scott Morrison has capped protection visas that can be issued to asylum seekers.
Labor stalls carbon tax repeal
![Labor stalls carbon tax repeal (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/03/4975658/Pratt_carbon-TH-90x60.jpg)
Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Change Louise Pratt defends Labor's decision to split the carbon tax repeal legislation, delaying the government's repeal efforts.
Backflip on Gonski backflip
![Education Minister Christopher Pyne and Prime Minister Tony Abbott address the media during a press conference at Parliament House in Canberra on Thursday 21 November 2013. Photo: Alex Ellinghauseni](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/02/4973390/1_AbbottpyneTH-90x60.jpg)
Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Education minister Christopher Pyne announce they will commit to the original funding of Gonski.
School Funding
War of words
![War of words (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/28/4962411/th-schools-shorten-pyne-90x60.jpg)
Christopher Pyne and Bill Shorten swap insults over the coalition's decision to develop a new school funding model. Nine news.
Labor in poll position
![Labor in poll position (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/25/4952973/Leigh-and-Laming_TH-90x60.jpg)
Labor's Andrew Leigh and Liberal Andrew Laming give their analysis on the first post-election Fairfax poll which has the ALP shooting to a 52-48 per cent lead over the government.
Indonesian ambassador responds to recall
![JAKARTA, INDONESIA - SEPTEMBER 30: Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott (L) poses for a photo with Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono during a visit at the presidential palace in on September 30, 2013 in Jakarta, Indonesia. Abbott is in Jakarta for two days of discussions with Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono in his first international trip as Prime Minister. (Photo by Oscar Siagian/Getty Images)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/19/4935520/AbbottsbyTH-90x60.jpg)
RAW AUDIO: Doing his best to deflect reporters' questions, the Indonesian ambassador Nadjib Riphat Kesoema passes through Canberra airport
Boats and debt
![Boats and debt (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/15/4926052/TH-roy-90x60.jpg)
LIberal MP Wyatt Roy reflects on the key political issues that have dominated the first week of the 44th Parliament.
Debt ceiling positions entrenched
![Debt ceiling positions entrenched (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/14/4922427/th-bowen-debt-doorstop-90x60.jpg)
Labor says Treasurer Joe Hockey must take responsibility for the consequences if he doesn't accept its offer to raise the debt ceiling by $100 billion, not $200 billion. Nine news.
A great but mad House
![A great but mad House (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/14/4922437/Andrew-Broad_Parliament_TH-90x60.jpg)
National MP Andrew Broad reflects on his first days as a new face in the Australian Parliament.
Greens: 'Show us the evidence'
![Greens: 'Show us the evidence' (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/14/4922424/Larissa-Waters_Joe-Hockey_TH-90x60.jpg)
Senator Larissa Waters says the Greens will consider their position on the debt ceiling once the Government provides details.
'Time for Rudd to be lionised'
!['Time for Rudd to be lionised' (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/14/4922421/Marles-and-Rudd_TH-90x60.jpg)
Shadow MInister for Immigration Richard Marles believes Kevin Rudd leaves Parliament with a 'might legacy'.
Aus-Indo relations
Australia must respect Indonesia
![Australia must respect Indonesia (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/14/4923110/Abbott_Indo_TH-90x60.jpg)
Indonesian academic Tri Nuke Pudjiastuti says that Aus-Indo relations have worsened under the Abbott Government.
Climate fight
Household bills v global climate
![Household bills v global climate (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/13/4919388/TH_milne_abbott_hunt-90x60.jpg)
PM Tony Abbott has told Parliament his bill to scrap the carbon tax is about household costs. Greens' leader Sen. Christine Milne says the fight is about climate disasters like the super typhoon Haiyan.
Names
Bronwyn's blunder?
![Madam Speaker Bishop listens as the Opposition attempt to move a dissent motion against the Speaker at Parliament House in Canberra on Wednesday 13 November 2013. Photo: Andrew Meares](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/13/4919408/131113_Bronwyn-s-Names_TH-90x60.jpg)
New Speaker of the House, Bronwyn Bishop has allowed the government to brand Opposition leader Bill Shorten, 'Electricity Bill' for his stance against the carbon tax repeal.
PM limits carbon cuts
![PM limits carbon cuts (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/12/4917234/131112_Abbott-Carbon_TH-90x60.jpg)
As Prime Minister Tony Abbott prodded 'Electricity Bill' Shorten to help scrap the carbon tax, he told journalists his government won't commit to 2020 carbon cuts beyond 5%.
Debt ceiling
Government 'dishonest' on debt?
![Govt 'dishonest' on debt? (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/12/4917255/131112_Debt-Ceiling_TH-90x60.jpg)
Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has accused PM Tony Abbott of dishonesty over his plans to increase the government's credit limit to $500 billion.
Asylum Seekers
'The boats are stopping'
!['The boats are stopping' (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/12/4917002/th2-abbott-PM-s-couryard-90x60.jpg)
Tony Abbott says asylum seeker boats are stopping, but won't confirm or deny reports the government is discussing a people swap with Indonesia.
New Parliament
Bronwyn Bishop elected Speaker
![Bronwyn Bishop elected Speaker (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/12/4916063/th-bronnie-sworn-in-90x60.jpg)
There was humour and rancour in the House of Representatives as Bronwyn Bishop was elected as Speaker on the first day of the 44th parliament.
Remembrance Day
Keating's call against arms
![Keating's call against arms (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/11/4913265/th-keating-reflects-AWM-90x60.jpg)
Paul Keating uses a Remembrance Day speech to warn Australians against 'the grand ambitions and grand alliances that fractured Europe and darkened the 20th century'.
Strong stand on navy misconduct
![RAN8100122_040703-060.JPG
UNCLASSSIFIED
Cleared for Transmission
Not Approved for Release
HMAS Ballarat (Royal Australian Navy Frigate) arrives in Sydney for the first time. The Frigate is the 6th Anzac to be built for the Australian Navy.](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/08/4907089/hmasballaratTH-90x60.jpg)
Prime Minister Tony Abbott is questioned by the media over reports of sexual harassment aboard HMAS Ballarat.
Cutbacks
Science cuts savaged
![Amanda Rishworth, campaigning in Adelaide's southern suburbs. She is the ALP candidate for marginal seat of Kingston. Friday 7th of September 2007. THE AGE INSIGHT Picture by David Mariuz.](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/08/4905887/131108_Rishworth_TH-90x60.jpg)
Labor MP Amanda Rishworth says the Abbott government is behaving as though 'they know it all' with cuts to the CSIRO and the scrapping of advisory panels.
Foreing Investment
GrainCorp in-fighting continues
![GrainCorp wrangle continues (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/07/4902133/th-andrew-broad-wheat-90x60.jpg)
Another National Party MP, Andrew Broad, has joined the struggle to prevent Treasurer Joe Hockey from approving the sale of grain handler GrainCorp to an American corporation.
WA Vote
Winning Senator wants new vote
![Winning Senator wants new vote (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/07/4903134/131107_Ludlam-Vote_TH-90x60.jpg)
Greens Senator Scott Ludlam says the Electoral Commission should begin the legal process for a new Senate vote in WA after a count botched because 1,375 votes were lost.
Climate Change
Labor will be 'consistent' on carbon
![Labor will be consistent on carbon (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/01/4883757/th-albo-courtyard-doorstop-90x60.jpg)
'Climate change didn't end on September 7th,' says Anthony Albanese, underlining party leader Bill Shorten's insistence that Labor will only back carbon tax repeal if an emissions trading scheme replaces it.
Senate Count
Ludlam: 'Vote should not be declared'
![Ludlam: 'vote should not be declared' (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/31/4878815/th-scott-ludlam-wa-senate-90x60.jpg)
The planned declaration of the West Australian senate recount should not go ahead, says Greens Senator Scott Ludlam, after the revelation ballot papers have gone missing. Nine news.
Afghanistan
Afghanistan withdrawal ceremony
![Afghanistan withdrawal (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/29/4869046/1_th-abbott-shorten-afghanistan-90x60.jpg)
Australian troops gather at a ceremony in Tarin Kowt to mark their impending withdrawal from Afghanistan and to hear speeches from Tony Abbott and Bill Shorten.
Carbon tax
Strategic 'repositioning' behind Labor's carbon tax backdown
![Strategic 'repositioning' behind Labor's carbon tax backdown (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/29/4869130/TH_shorten_carbon-90x60.jpg)
Labor must sever itself from the 'demonised' carbon tax and weather the short-term cost, says former ALP adviser John Flannery.
From left field
Out and about at the PM's XI
![Prime Minister Tony Abbott with Captain Brett Lee after the coin toss at the PM's XI against England at Manuka Oval in Canberra on Tuesday 14 January 2014. Photo: Andrew Meares](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2014/01/14/5075031/AbbottPMXITH-90x60.jpg)
Prime Minister Tony Abbott pre-match formalities at Manuka Oval for the PM's XI. Vision: Channel 9.
Hungry times in the House
![Hungry times in the House (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/20/4938979/20131120HairTH-90x60.jpg)
Opposition spokesman for resources Gary Gray searches for an ad hoc snack on the floor of Parliament.
Nobel economics
Changing lanes? Call an economist
![Changing lanes? Call an eocnomist (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/16/4834520/131016_Martin-Nobel_TH-90x60.jpg)
Is changing lanes in bumper to bumper traffic, or switching supermarket queues really worthwhile. Peter Martin discusses the award winning economics that answers the question.
Balance of Power
Poo thrower a Senate chance
![Poo thrower a Senate chance (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/09/09/4732756/130909_Senator-Poo-2_TH-90x60.jpg)
Senate dark horse Ricky Muir has defended his antics with kangaroo poo as another likely new face in the upper house refuses to talk beyond his one issue - health in sport.
Campaign 2013
Rudd's West Wing moment
![Prime Minister Kevin Rudd made remarks to the media in Launceston on Tuesday 3 September 2013. Election 2013. Photo: Andrew Meares](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/09/03/4715985/130903_Rudd_TH-90x60.jpg)
Viewers of the Prime Minister's appearance on ABC's Q&A; wondered whether Mr Rudd was channeling President Bartlet from the TV series 'West Wing'.
Maintain your Rage
![Maintain your Rage (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/08/30/4706077/th-20130830-RAGE-90x60.jpg)
The ABC's much-loved music broadcast RAGE gets political, as Anthony Albanese, Julie Bishop and Adam Bandt drop some tunes mid-campaign. The Canberra Times' Jenna Clarke offers some liner notes.
All sizzle, no sausage?
![All sizzle, no sausage? (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/08/19/4673950/th-20130819-Mearesymoment2-90x60.jpg)
Photojournalist Andrew Meares captures the scenes at a prime ministerial sausage sizzle in Adelaide over the weekend.
'Them polls are a bunch of wombats!'
!['Them polls are a bunch of wombats!' (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/08/19/4674115/th-20130819-wombats-90x60.jpg)
RAW VISION: On the campaign trail, a local expresses his confidence in the Prime Minister and tells him not to worry about bad polls numbers.
Tony the Truckie
![Tony the Truckie (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/08/16/4666838/vd-20130816-linfox-90x60.jpg)
Tony Abbott presses the flesh with Linfox truck drivers in Melbourne, and demonstrates his familiarity with the big rigs.
Interviews
Economic battle lines
![Economic battle lines (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/17/5016746/20131217Leigh11-90x60.jpg)
As Treasurer Joe Hockey releases MYEFO both sides of politics have dug in for a battle over economic credentials.
Protect Aussie jobs?
![Protect Aussie jobs? (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/06/4986985/1_1_th-roy---rishworth-90x60.jpg)
Amanda Rishworth (ALP) and Wyatt Roy (Lib) debate whether the government should protect iconic Australian business.
Visa freeze 'punitive and cruel': Manne
![Refugee advocate David Manne speaks to the media after the Federal Government's planned refugee swap deal with Malaysia was ruled unlawful by the High Court. Picture by PAUL ROVERE / FAIRFAX MEDIA. 31 August 2011. Melbourne.](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/05/4982879/ManneTH-90x60.jpg)
Refugee advocate David Manne says the immigration minister's visa freeze lacks policy rationality.
Debt deal love
![Debt deal love (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/05/4982566/broadwatersTH-90x60.jpg)
Greens Senator Larissa Waters and Nationals MP Andrew Broad discuss the deal done to abolish the debt ceiling
Timor spying claims
![131023 afr frydenberg pic josh robenstone
weds oct 23 2013
josh frydenberg (centre) speaking to David Peever from BCA (right) today at the bca event in melbourne
photo by josh robenstone
story fleur anderson](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/04/4979392/20131204FrydenbergTH-90x60.jpg)
Liberal MP Josh Frydenberg defends Australia's intelligence network and is confident in the 'checks and balances' involved.
Demolish the ceiling?
![Demolish the ceiling? (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/12/02/4972776/Leigh-and-Laming_TH-90x60.jpg)
Andrew Leigh (ALP) & Andrew Laming (Lib) join Tim Lester in the studio to discuss debt and GrainCorp
Rebuke Textor: Rishworth
![Federal labour member for kingston Amanda Rishworth, pictured in her southern electorate. Tuesday 20th of July 2010. THE AGE NEWS Picture By David Mariuz](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/22/4946079/20130913---Rishworth-2-THjpg-90x60.jpg)
PM Tony Abbott needs to distance himself from comments made by Liberal pollster Mark Textor on Twitter says Labor MP Amanda Rishworth.
Abbott out of his depth on crisis
![Abbott out of his depth on crisis (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/21/4941863/Larissa_Waters_AbbottTH-90x60.jpg)
PM Tony Abbott can balance an apology to Jakarta while maintaining secrecy on intelligence matters, believes Greens Senator Larissa Waters.
Spying allegations
Spying allegations bite
![Fairfax News- 03/07/12-lndonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Leader of the opposition Tony Abott in Darwin after bilateral meetings between Australia and Indonesia in Darwin.
Photo Glenn Campbell](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/19/4935688/131119_Abbott-SBY_TH-90x60.jpg)
The spying allegations shaking Australia's fractious relationship with Indonesia are likely to get worse according to security expert Clinton Fernandes.
Always assume someone is listening
![Assume someone's listening (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/20/4938514/TH_Frydenberg_Lester-90x60.jpg)
As tensions with Jakarta escalate Liberal MP Josh Frydenberg says he assumes every call he makes is being monitored.
Post predicament
![Post predicament (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/19/4936096/th-130709-prattwilliams-90x60.jpg)
Senators Louise Pratt and John Williams talk Australia Post, Indonesia, GrainCorp and the WA Senate election.
Intelligence sharing with Jakarta
![SPECIALX IRAQ FAIRFAX , News , IraqDebate Reps
Member for Melbourne Ports , Michael Danby ALP
Photograph taken by Andrew Taylor / jat in Canberra Parliament House..](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/19/4935955/20131119DanbyTH-90x60.jpg)
Australia might need to share intelligence with Indonesia in order to rebuild the bilateral relationship according to Labor MP Michael Danby.
Childcare overhaul
![Prime Minister Julia Gillard during question time in Parliament House Canberra on Wednesday 31 October 2012. Photo: Andrew Meares](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/18/4933069/LamingTH-90x60.jpg)
Liberal Mp Andrew Laming says a complex childcare system means it is difficult to develop a single national policy.
Inconsistency on human rights
![Inconsistency on human rights (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/18/4932859/TH_Leigh-asylum-90x60.jpg)
Labor MP Andrew Leigh says there are never 'difficult circumstances' to justify torture.
Climate Change
No climate commitments
![No climate commitments (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/11/4912990/th-Laming-climate-change-90x60.jpg)
Australia's delegation to climate talks in Warsaw has reportedly been instructed to avoid making any new carbon reduction commitments. Liberal MP Andrew Laming explains why.
Indonesia Relationship
Greens: spying should stop
![Greens: spying should stop (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/07/4902644/th-scott-ludlam-wa-senate-90x60.jpg)
West Australian Senator Scott Ludlam talks to Tim Lester about spying, the WA senate count and climate change.
New Member
Keep GainCorp Australian
![Keep GainCorp Australian (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/07/4902685/th-andrew-broad-night-90x60.jpg)
TIM LESTER New National Party MP Andrew Broad discusses the future of GrainCorp, relations with Indonesia and his first week in parliament with Tim Lester.
Shallow foreign policy
![New York, Sept 23, 2013 Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/06/4900102/BishopMartyTH-90x60.jpg)
Dr Ross Tapsell says more depth to the relationship with Indonesia is needed.
Onus on Electoral Commission: Pratt
![Onus on Electoral Comission: Pratt (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/05/4896966/TH_Pratt-and-Lester_main-90x60.jpg)
Senator Louise Pratt says a speculation of a new WA Senate election is premature.
Wheat, water and espionage
![Wheat, water and espionage (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/05/4896483/th-williams-senate-90x60.jpg)
Nationals Senator John 'Wacka' Williams discusses the plan to sell GrainCorp, coal mining's effect on water, and Indonesian reaction to spying claims.With Tim Lester.
Coalition unmoved on gay marriage
![Coalition unmoved on gay marriage (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/04/4894101/TH-Laming-and-Lester-90x60.jpg)
Liberal MP Andrew Laming says he hasn't seen much movement within the Coalition on marriage equality.
E-voting 'inevitable': Leigh
![E-voting 'inevitable': Leigh (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/04/4893317/TH_Leigh-and-Lester-90x60.jpg)
Labor MP Andrew Leigh says the WA Senate election debacle has accelerated the move to electronic voting.
Government spying
Governments must be accountable for spying
![Governments must be accountable for spying (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/31/4879545/1_TH_Bartlett_Lester_main-90x60.jpg)
Andrew Bartlett, Qld Greens convenor and forrmer senator, believes that Australia must show leadership with intelligence collection practices.
Intelligence
Embassy spying
![Technology. AFR FIRST USE. Generic 080505. . Use for IT, Internet, technology, broadband, computer, email, electronic, fibre optic cable. Pic by Nic Walker. Date 7th October 2010](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/31/4877938/131031_Ball-on-Bugging_TH-90x60.jpg)
Intelligence expert Prof. Des Ball says spying by embassies is routine with foreign missions in Canberra among those that carry out the highly secret intelligence work.
'We have the right targets'
!['We have the right targets' (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/30/4872569/TH_Frydenberg_Lester-90x60.jpg)
Liberal MP Josh Frydenberg rejects the revised emission reduction targets released by the Climate Change Authority which state that Australia's current targets are inadequate.
Afganistan Aid
Afghan aid plea
![Afghan aid plea (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/30/4872555/th-afghan-ambo-90x60.jpg)
Afghanistan needs development assistance from Australia to be maintained at existing levels, according to that country's ambassador to Australia amid speculation aid levels may be cut.
Analysis
Fragile Australian economy
![Fragile Australian economy (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/20/4938931/th_martin-90x60.jpg)
An OECD report expresses concern over further budget cuts due to a soft Australian economy Peter Martin explains.
Abbott's stance unsustainable
![Prime Minister Tony Abbott during question time at Parliament House in Canberra on Tuesday 19 November 2013. Photo: Andrew Meares](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/20/4938684/1_20131120AbbottTH-90x60.jpg)
The Age's Political editor Michael Gordon analyses the potential ways the Abbott government can resolve the rift with Indonesia.
Tax tweaks
![The Treasurer Joe Hockey and Assistant Treasurer are in Sydney and will hold a media conference today: Photo: Peter Rae Wednesday 5 November 2013
C35F3869.JPG](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/11/06/4900228/1_JoeHockeyTaxTH-90x60.jpg)
Peter Martin discusses the tax changes announced by Treasurer Joe Hockey on Wednesday
Huawei ban 'a bit silly'
![Huawei ban 'a bit silly' (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/31/4876366/th-NBN-politics-2-90x60.jpg)
There is no good reason for banning Chinese telecommunications company Huawei from working on the NBN, according to telecommunications analyst Paul Budde.
Bank deposit
![Bank deposit (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/23/4853384/130320_martinTH-90x60.jpg)
Economics Correspondent Peter Martin explains why Treasurer Joe Hockey has given the Reserve Bank $8.8 billion.
Same-sex marriage
High Court awaits same-sex marriage legislation
![High Court awaits same-sex marriage legislation (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/22/4849430/th-abbott-same-sex-90x60.jpg)
TIM LESTER According to constitutional law expert Professor George Williams, the legal challenge to the ACT marriage equality legislation will be a question of federalism not human rights.
US Budget Crisis
Fiscal cliff looms
![Fiscal cliff looms (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/15/4830895/th-obama-shut-down-90x60.jpg)
Dr Nicole Hemmer says 'tea party' Republicans have brought the US to the edge of defaulting on government debt by threatening fellow Republicans.
Jakarta Talks
Both sides give ground
![Both sides give ground (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/10/01/4791927/th-abbott---SBY-3-90x60.jpg)
Indonesian President Yudhoyono says bilateral talks on asylum seekers are now possible, while Tony Abbott says Australia will consult Indonesia over his government's 'tow-back' policy.
Budget balance serious challange
![Budget balance serious challange (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/09/27/4783846/Colebatch--KennyTH-90x60.jpg)
With a need to protect growth and reduced revenue, Mark Kenny and Tim Colebatch discuss the path to surplus for Treasurer Joe Hockey
Boats policy substantive problem
![Boats policy substantive problem (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/09/27/4783499/abbottindoanalysisTH-90x60.jpg)
As Prime Minister Tony Abbott prepares for his first overseas visit his plan to stop the boats may jeopardise diplomatic efforts with Jakarta. Analysis
Balance of power
![Balance of power (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/09/09/4732239/th-senate-results-90x60.jpg)
The exact make up of the new Senate is yet to be determined, but up to eight small parties and independents look likely to hold the balance of power. Tim Colebatch explains.
Negotiating the aftermath
![Negotiating through the aftermath (Thumbnail)](http://web.archive.org./web/20140127020832im_/http://images.watoday.com.au/2013/09/09/4731884/th-20130909-counterspin-90x60.jpg)
Strategists Jannette Cotterell and Greg Turnbull discuss Tony Abbott's landslide election victory, the Labor leadership conundrum, and the prospect of a colourful new Senate.
Featured
Toyota's future in Australia
What needs to be done to keep Toyota making cars in Australia? Liberal Wyatt Roy and Labor's Amanda Rishworth discuss the way ahead.
Car industry invaluable, expert warns
Australian manufacturing could lose irreplaceable talent if the car industry disappears, warns a industry observer.
Holden must shoulder some blame
NSW Nationals senator John WIlliams plays down speculation that only one federal minister supports giving additional financial assistance to the car industry.
Big brother's new kit
Senior writer Philip Dorling tells Tim Lester the advanced technology harvesting data across Australia is being provided by a little known Melbourne company.
ABC criticism 'unwarranted'
Shadow parl. sec. for foreign affairs, Matt Thistlethwaite says the ABC did what any media company would do.
GrainCorp decision a 'win' for Australia
Nationals senator John Williams is adamant that the Treasurer's decision to reject ADM's takeover bid for GrainCorp was the correct one.
Government 'adhering to Israel's interests'
Labor's Andrew Leigh looks at the political issues shaping the week ahead, including the Government's adoption of a new position on Israel at the UN, the latest polling numbers, and GST reform.
Wyatt's word to baby boomers
Australia's youngest Federal MP, Wyatt Roy talks about his generation paying the taxes to keep their parent's generation alive longer and says baby boomers need to stay at work till they're older.
Indonesia's upper hand
Can PM Tony Abbott wait out Jakarta's anger over the phone monitoring revelations? Indonesia expert Professor Tim Lindsey doubts it.
Indonesian backlash
Statements by Prime Minister Tony Abbott have only inflamed anger in Jakarta according to Ass. Prof. Greg Fealy
Further Snowden leaks expected
More Australian spying allegations are likely to come, says Assistant Profesoor of International and Political Studies at UNSW Clinton Fernandes.
Tony Abbott's boat plan slammed
Prime Minister Tony Abbott will have to dump his plan to tow back Asylum boats, according to respected Indonesian expert on international law, Hikmahanto Juwana.
Patrol limits
Shadow immigration spokesperson Richard Marles wants to know what limitations of use are on the patrol boats gifted to Sri Lanka.
'Lionise Kevin' says Rudd supporter
As Kevin Rudd leaves federal politics, will his party look beyond years of bruising leadership fights and install his as a Labor great?
Labor targets Scott Morrison
Uproar in parliament, as the opposition targets the architect of the government's asylum seeker policy, Scott Morrison.
Destructive 'Typhoon' Tony
As the Government moves to repeal the carbon tax, Greens leader Christine Milne has dubbed the Prime Minister 'Typhoon Tony' and linked inaction on climate change to the destructive typhoon that has flattened the Philippines.
People-swap deal hypocritical
Fairfax Indonesia correspondent Michael Bachelard says Australia-Indonesia relations have become noticeably edgier since the Abbott Government assumed office.
'Time for Rudd to be lionised'
Shadow MInister for Immigration Richard Marles believes Kevin Rudd leaves Parliament with a 'might legacy'.
Parliament kicks off
Senator Louise Pratt and Senator John Williams map out what lies ahead for Australia's 44th Parliament which commences today.
Aus-Indo relationship 'shambolic'
The Australian-Indonesian relationship is being dealt 'tremendous blows' by the Abbott Government's asylum policy, says Labor MP Andrew Leigh.
Parliament trumps climate talks
The government says it's more important for Environment Minister Greg Hunt to be in parliament than at international climate talks. Labor disagrees.
Science cuts savaged
Labor MP Amanda Rishworth says the Abbott government is behaving as though 'they know it all' with cuts to the CSIRO and the scrapping of advisory panels.
Trust deficit
Indonesian Lieutenant General (ret) Agus Widjojo says Australia needs to rebuild trust with its closest neighbor.
Diplomatic rescue?
Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop faces a tough early test in the job as she seeks to repair damage to relations with Indonesia over embassy spy allegations affair. Correspondent Michael Bachelard discusses the challenge.
GrainCorp in-fighting continues
Another National Party MP, Andrew Broad, has joined the struggle to prevent Treasurer Joe Hockey from approving the sale of grain handler GrainCorp to an American corporation.
Greens call for spying halt
An apology is the least Indonesia can expect from Australia following revelations of electronic spying, according to Greens Senator Scott Ludlam.
Govt cool on Howard's climate talk
The PM's parliamentary secretary Josh Frydenberg has distanced himself and the government from former leader John Howard's climate scepticism in a speech abroad.
Coalition split over GrainCorp sale
The National Party is fighting a rear-guard action against the sale of wheat wholesaler GrainCorp, as Treasurer Joe Hockey considers whether to approve the deal. Senator John 'Wacka' Williams explains.
Onus on Electoral Commission: Pratt
Senator Louise Pratt says a speculation of a new WA Senate election is premature.
Paper or Electronic?
Is it time to move beyond paper voting? Labor's Andrew Leigh says the switch is inevitable as he and other MPs respond to the costly loss of 1375 votes in WA and the possibility of a new senate election in the west.
'The rosiest picture in years'
Australia's economic indicators are all falling into place, says Peter Martin, adding that an interest rate cut on Tuesday is unlikely.
'Lost' votes causing stress
Labor senator Louise Pratt admits delays in settling the trouble-plagued WA Senate vote have been 'distressing', as candidates seek legal advice and wait to see whether 1,375 lost votes are recovered.
Roy on cars and Clive
Liberal MP Wyatt Roy says we should carefully consider the future of Australia's car industry and throws in a few words of advice to Clive Palmer as well.
Embassy espionage in Canberra
Leading intelligence and security academic Prof. Des Ball discusses the history of embassy spying and says Australia is a target in our own capital.