Politics

Politics · 5 hrs ago

Productivity chief warns Labor’s union-friendly reforms may be the secret spice in Australia’s economic stew

Mabel Crowe, Sydney desk

The chair of the Productivity Commission has called for a review of Labor’s recent workplace reforms, suggesting they may be contributing to the country’s economic malaise.

Politics · 20 hrs ago

Hanson's constitutional crusade: High Court to wrestle with 18C as legal fireworks light up Canberra

Mabel Crowe, Sydney desk

One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has been granted leave to challenge the 18C hate‑speech law before the High Court, arguing it breaches the constitution.

Politics · 23 hrs ago

Ex‑partner’s stalking charge adds a new twist to WA Greens inquiry, much to the delight of local council queue‑watchers

Mabel Crowe, Sydney desk

A 40‑year‑old woman, former partner of Greens senator Jordon Steele‑John, has been charged with aggravated stalking as a Western Australian Greens inquiry gets under way, prompting a modest ripple through local civ…

Politics · 1 day ago

Deepfakes Turn Victoria’s Election Ads into a Digital Traffic Jam

Doug Kettle, Sydney desk

AI‑generated videos are flooding Victoria’s election advertising. Research shows National posted 100 negative Facebook ads against the Greens co‑leader and 87 against Chris Hipkins, prompting experts to warn that t…

Politics · 1 day ago

PM Tries to Slip Past Shoebridge and Taylor with Inflation‑Fighting Cuts, but Senate Turns It Into a Brawl

Rex Blister, Sydney desk

Facing inflation pressure, the prime minister pushes spending cuts around two senators, but Labor’s aversion triggers a Senate showdown.

Politics · 1 day ago

Commonwealth Cranks Down Teen Speech: Court Hears Challenge to Social Media Ban, Lawyers Suggest Alternative Debate Paths

Rex Blister, Sydney desk

The Commonwealth’s ban on under‑16s posting to social media is being challenged in the High Court, and barristers defending the measure have floated creative ways for young people to join political debate without usi…

Politics · 2 days ago

Albanese’s Budget Leaves Only Hard Choices

Mabel Crowe, Sydney desk

Albanese faces only hard choices as the government loses control of its economic narrative after the budget was handed down.

Politics · 2 days ago

Bullock says the economy feels like a recession; Chalmers now has the hot potato

Mabel Crowe, Sydney desk

RBA Governor Michele Bullock has admitted the economy feels like a recession, even though it isn’t officially one, and Treasury Minister Jim Chalmers is now expected to take the reins.

Politics · 2 days ago

High Court Questions Reddit Ban, Says Kids Too Busy for Politics

Rex Blister, Sydney desk

The High Court examined Reddit’s proposed social‑media ban for minors and suggested that children’s limited political engagement means the restriction would have little effect.