Policy
Personal data control in plan
JOE KELLYConsumers would be able to demand any personal data be transferred to competitors to improve choice, under new laws.
Forecast deficit blows out $30bn
DAVID URENThe failure of tax revenue to meet optimistic predictions has forced the forecast peak in public debt $30bn higher.
‘No changes to rape definition’
PIA AKERMANThe Andrews government has rejected a call to roll back changes to Victoria’s rape laws.
Abbott regrets ignoring nuke subs
Greg SheridanTony Abbott has said that he regrets not investigating more fully the option for a nuclear-powered submarine fleet.
Refugee ban pressures ALP
DENNIS SHANAHANThe government is forcing a showdown on its plans to permanently bar from Australia refugees who arrived by boat.
Libs in 18C ‘free speech’ push
DAVID CROWEA new push to defend free speech is gaining ground within the federal government.
US in mix for resettlement
PAUL MALEYRefugees on Manus Island and Nauru will be offered permanent new homes in a handful of third countries.
Rent deal followed criticism
SEAN PARNELLAn extraordinary mid-campaign deal between the Coalition and major pathology companies is set to come under scrutiny.
‘Level field’ for Green groups
JOE KELLYThe same donation rules must apply to all organisations engaged in political advocacy, says committee head.
RET power bill shock
KYLAR LOUSSIKIAN, SID MAHERHouseholds face higher bills and retailers stand to make windfall gains from a spike in renewable energy prices.
‘Let’s see refugee bill detail’
DAVID CROWE, ROSIE LEWISBill Shorten has left room to support the government’s sudden proposal on asylum-seekers despite Labor MPs’ fury.
NXT wants ‘expanded PPL’
ROSIE LEWISRebekha Sharkie says she wants to see the PPL scheme ‘expanded’.
Robb’s job a ‘bridge too far’
JOE KELLYLabor and the Greens have taken aim at the ethical standards of the Turnbull government over Andrew Robb’s new role.
Health funds ‘need to be clearer’
SEAN PARNELLA health insurance committee has highlighted the problem of inconsistent terminology and a lack of clarity on costs.
Brawl over refugee lifetime ban
DAVID CROWEBill Shorten wants more time to decide on the PM’s vow to impose a lifetime ban on asylum-seekers who come by boat.
Cashless card cuts pokies take
Verity EdwardsMalcolm Turnbull will consider rolling out the cashless welfare card widely.
Push to lift Israel defence ties
Greg SheridanAustralia and Israel should upgrade military and diplomatic relations, according to a major report.
Xenophon stalls on PPL
ROSIE LEWISNick Xenophon will propose amendments to paid parental leave policy after he torpedoed the government’s hopes.
In wash-up, asylum loser wins
Greg BearupWhen Marcus Pireesan fled Sri Lanka for Australia in search of a better life, his home town was a very different place.
Push to stop welfare creep
DAVID CROWEScott Morrison has vowed to end the “welfare creep” that encourages thousands of Australians to avoid getting a job.
