Politics

Politics · 24 October 2026

If Hanson Finally Figures Out the Light Switch, the Rest of Australia Might Follow Suit

Mabel Crowe, Sydney desk

A satirical take on an op‑ed that argues if Pauline Hanson can "wise up," every Australian should join the effort, reminding us that we all share the same joys and hardships and can each help improve the nation.

Politics · 24 October 2026

Alpine Region Left with Empty Mental‑Health Shelves After Attacker Gets No Help

Mabel Crowe, Sydney desk

An attacker who had been flagged for mental‑health support before striking police and an MP received no appointments, leaving Victoria’s Alpine region to confront a stark gap in services, according to researchers.

Politics · 23 October 2026

Albanese hands Greens a fortnight of extra hands as his own party nips inquiry into his powers

Mabel Crowe, Sydney desk

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese allocated fifteen staff positions to the Greens, then saw his party block a parliamentary inquiry into his powers, prompting One Nation’s Pauline Hanson to accuse him of political games.

Politics · 22 October 2026

Who Loses at Sam? Budget Cuts Take the Mic

Pieter Lang, Brussels desk

With less than a week to the budget, Treasury minister Emma Reynolds says tighter efficiency could free cash for NATO, leaving public services – and the Sam podcast – to feel the pinch.

Politics · 22 October 2026

Shoebridge Calls for Independent Inquiry into Steele‑John, Party Supporters Raise Eyebrows

Rex Blister, Sydney desk

David Shoebridge is urging an independent inquiry into fellow MP Jordon Steele‑John, but some members of his own party remain skeptical of the move.

Politics · 22 October 2026

Albanese’s ‘Dirt File’ Drama: Senate Probes Invite‑Only Grants as Watchdog Gets Curious

Rex Blister, Sydney desk

A Senate inquiry into Labor’s invite‑only grant program has drawn the attention of the national corruption watchdog, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is defending a confidential dossier on independent MP Helen Hai…

Politics · 22 October 2026

Helen Haines’ Wodonga Walk Triggers Nationwide MP Safety Review

Rex Blister, Sydney desk

MP Helen Haines was attacked in Wodonga, prompting a community vigil and a fresh look at safety measures for Australian politicians, with officials calling the incident ‘sadly predictable’.

Politics · 22 October 2026

Phil Haines: The Warmth‑Wielding Wizard Who Got Helen into Parliament

Rex Blister, Sydney desk

Phil Haines, the MP’s husband, used his renowned warmth and grace to convince Helen to run for parliament, leaving the Prime Minister awestruck and quietly influencing the community independent movement.

Politics · 22 October 2026

Australian MPs Say Listening Is Dangerous, Yet Refuse 24/7 Security

Rex Blister, Sydney desk

Australia’s politicians argue that the act of listening has become increasingly perilous, but they insist they don’t want constant security detail, preferring to stay accessible to the public.