Analysis & Opinion

Donald Trump: The 'antithesis' of Barack Obama who split the GOP

Donald Trump is the apprentice politician who became a cultural phenomenon, and brought showmanship and chutzpah to the business of US politics. But what is his appeal, and will he triumph after an ugly and spiteful campaign?

By North America correspondent Michael Vincent

Finding focus in an age of distraction

Finding focus in an age of distraction not only helps you get things done, but can help you achieve your goals.

By Sophie Scott

Record-breaking temperatures will be new normal by 2030

Global temperatures like 2015 will be normal by 2030, and Australia's record-breaking 2013 summer will likely be an average summer by 2035.

By Sophie Lewis, ANU

With a less confrontational approach to whaling, more whales could be saved

Recent legal and diplomatic wins over Japan's whaling stance have done little to help the whales themselves while threatening to strain relations between pro-and anti-whaling nations.

By Steven Freeland, Western Sydney University

Stay classy, ladies: Racing season would be nothing without you

Because when the party is over, no one will remember the horses, but everyone will remember 'Wheelie-bin Girl', writes Ben Pobjie.

By Ben Pobjie

Win at all costs - Clarke's take on chase a window into Australia's Test mindset

Having a positive focus on runs to be chased can be a good thing - but Australia may be losing its ability to bat out draws, writes Adam Collins.

By Adam Collins at the WACA

Double standards and women's cards: Hillary Clinton's Catch-22

Hillary Clinton's strengths and experience may be the reason she becomes the first woman to lose a presidential election as a major party candidate, writes John Barron.

By John Barron

Australia put through the wringer on day three at the WACA

Extending their overnight lead from 102 to 388, and losing only four wickets in the process, South Africa's day on the green, by contrast, was picture perfect, writes Adam Collins

By Adam Collins

Abuse redress scheme gives survivors respect they deserve

The Federal Government's announcement to set up a national redress scheme for survivors of abuse is much-needed and long overdue, writes Maurice Blackburn principal lawyer Michelle James.

By Michelle James

The DIY sperm gun that gives women 'more freedom'

Do men need to 'woman up' when it comes to sharing the burden of contraception, asks Jo Fox. And does a new DIY intrauterine insemination device really give women the freedom its creators claim?

By Jo Fox

Do men dominate Australia's music scene?

From festival line-ups to young start-ups — the Australian music scene has a gender problem.

By Ruby Jones

Seven experts on the Paris climate treaty entering into force

Seven eminent international scientists agree that a new era for climate policy is here. But the hard work starts now.

Gen Y still have choices available to build wealth

Gen Y can still afford a house, even in the expensive Sydney and Melbourne markets, but it will take sacrifices, argues Andrew Robertson.

By business reporter Andrew Robertson

How many MPs does it take to win a NSW by-election?

The regional New South Wales city of Orange has made a name for itself as a food and wine destination — but now politicians are swelling the visitor numbers as a by-election looms.

By Joanna Woodburn

The risk of reading too much into the rise of Donald Trump

There has been much analysis on the rise of Donald Trump as the result of widespread social and economic unrest, but a look at the primaries shows it to be more of a quirk of the system.

By Zim Nwokora, Deakin University

Why Indigenous leaders are angry at latest round of inquiries

Indigenous leaders were frustrated with inaction before the latest inquiry into Aboriginal incarceration was even announced, and even a quick glance at the history reveals why.

By Kate Wild

Industrial bills test Turnbull's negotiating skills and backbone

Malcolm Turnbull laughs off the suggestion that this week's extraordinary developments mean the Senate is in chaos. Okay, let's humour the Prime Minister.

By Michelle Grattan, University of Canberra

What does the High Court's Brexit ruling mean?

The High Court has decided the British Government cannot trigger Brexit without first getting the approval of parliament — what happens now?

By Europe correspondent James Glenday

Low interest rates creating next generation of rich and poor

Having recessionary, historically low interest rates creates distortions in the economy and is creating a big cost for hundreds of thousands of younger Australians.

By business reporter David Taylor

Hazelwood power station closure the latest blow for coal

Hazelwood will be the fourth big coal-fired power station to close in Australia's east over the past three years.

By business reporter Stephen Letts