The Independent Australian

 One aspect of the 457 visa debate that’s rarely considered is the effect that a ready source of cheap labour has on technological innovation writes contributor ‘Graphite’.

 The anti Wilders campaign was little short of hysterical. Public hand washing was popular. Venues were cancelled, but in Melbourne Le Mirage was available. It is owned by an Iraqi Christian - he would know what Islam is all about.

Abbott has eventually woken up to the need to button his lips and hence his standing in the polls has improved. He is becoming a tiny target. Next step is tighten his purse strings so that the Coalition is credible when the election is held and doesn’t struggle with competing demands if they win the election.

 Jobs are being lost, not only by sending work abroad, but also by importing foreign workers under 457 visas, which means employers don't bother with apprentice training.

 Nicola Roxon may well have resigned because of difficulties of reconciling work and family. But her work stress was largely of her own making. Partisan actions on matters before the court, swinging a heavy handbag at Tony Abbott and attempting to suppress free speech are not part of the gravitas and restraint one expects from an Attorney General.

  The good news is that Citizens Initiated Referenda will be discussed in Parliament, thanks to Senator Madigan (DLP, Victoria). He is moving two bills in the Senate early this year. TIA will follow with interest.

A voting system has to be simple, yet maximize a voter’s ability to express opinions. OPV meets that criteria. A useful addition to the ballot paper would be ‘None of the Above’ below the last candidate. This would enable people to express their disgust with the antics of Parliament this term.

 A landslide Coalition victory in the coming federal election seems no longer likely. What should Tony Abbott do? Nigel Jackson presents the case that a Coalition victory can be achieved with a conservative impetus. 

 A riddle, a sing-along with Julia and a Christmas card.

 In the traditional vein of Christmas.