Parliament House fence cost kept secret to 'deter terrorists'

The federal government won't reveal the cost of a controversial security fence being installed outside Canberra's Parliament House because the price tag could aid a terrorist attack.

Abbott pledges 'full support' for Turnbull, hours after attacking him

Tony Abbott has pledged his "full support" for Malcolm Turnbull, just hours after launching his strongest attack on the government and calling for a range of conservative policy changes.

Dutton backs down on refugee swap comments after being corrected by Bishop

Peter Dutton has backed down on controversial comments suggesting a quid pro quo with the Trump administration over refugee resettlement plans, after being corrected by Foreign Minister Julie Bishop from Washington on Thursday.

Expect more foreign fighters to return as IS struggles: Bishop

Authorities must be prepared for more foreign fighters to seek to return to Australia, Foreign Minister Julie Bishop warned on Thursday.

Big business backs four-year parliamentary term plan

Opposition Leader Bill Shorten has reiterated his support for the introduction of four-year, fixed parliamentary terms following the preparation of legislation to bring about the constitutional change.

Young Libs seek more public service job cuts and Abbott-style commission of audit

The submission by federal president, Aiden Depiazzi, and vice-president and staffer to backbench senator Eric Abetz, Josh Manuatu, calls for "strong and effective action" to control intergenerational federal government debt and for the Student Services and Amenities Fee to be abolished for university students. 

Sugar tax proposals divide experts and federal government

• EXCLUSIVE

Decisive government intervention to address Australia's growing obesity epidemic should include a new tax on sugary beverages, as 75 per cent of young people exceed recommended daily energy intake, a leading obesity expert has warned.

Hockey warns Trump over nationalistic 'America First' rhetoric

Australia's ambassador to the United States Joe Hockey has warned President Donald Trump his trademark "America First" rhetoric will leave allies and trading partners questioning their relationship with America, and risks a horrible impact on the domestic economy.

Government moves to crack down on 'Mediscare' tactics

The Turnbull government is preparing to introduce new criminal penalties for anyone convicted of impersonating a Commonwealth entity.