Comment

The Age Editorials

<p>

Canberra's political games hurting Victoria

News this week that the federal government will allocate Victoria just 7.7 per cent of the national infrastructure budget is bitterly disappointing and a prime example of politicking triumphing over sound reason.

Indonesia tested by the raging mob

Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama during his trial at the North Jakarta District Court in Jakarta on Dececember 13.

On Tuesday, an extraordinary trial will resume that sees the Christian governor of Jakarta, capital the world's largest Muslim-majority nation, charged with blasphemy against Islam. The case carries monumental importance for Indonesia, and sends a worrisome signal about the political and social trajectory of Australia's most significant neighbour.

We'll pay if nothing is done on climate

<p>

The abolition of the carbon price, married with the government’s failure to introduce anything in its place to tackle greenhouse gas emissions, is now actually increasing costs for consumers.

Renewal of republican debate a welcome move

<p>

The decision by Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull to speak this weekend at the 25th anniversary of the Australian Republican Movement will almost certainly reopen the debate on Australia's status.

Time has come for infrastructure push

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull is facing some bad economic news.

Instead of cutting rates in the hope business investment drives the economy, it is time to take the brave political move to use public debt to fund key projects.

Why lawmakers should legalise assisted death

<p>

Not everyone is going to suffer a slow and excruciating end from terminal illness, but everyone has the moral right, should they be in such extremis, to physician-assisted death.

Policy review must push for carbon pricing

<p>

In 2010, Malcolm Turnbull said Australia "cannot cost-effectively achieve a substantial cut in emissions without putting a price on carbon". He's still right, and the situation is increasingly urgent.

Too many barriers still block reef rescue

The Great Barrier Reef is suffering its worst year on record.

Australia cannot say it is doing everything possible to save its most precious natural icon until it commits to what scientists and experts advise is necessary on climate change.

Fret not - principles will triumph over fear

<p>

Whether it is universal suffrage, equal pay, Indigenous rights, or the present campaign for marriage equality, no social advance towards equity has come without struggle and often polarising disputes.