Australia on the brink

Australia seemed to have coronavirus well contained, but a spate of recent outbreaks risk plunging the country into another round of lockdowns and restrictions.

The post-election reckoning ahead

The Coalition ditched its mantra of ‘fiscal responsibility’ during the pandemic, but a financial reckoning may be on the horizon – as soon as the next federal election is won.

Frydenberg shakes the money tree

In addition to the boosts to women and aged care, many individuals and businesses will be scrutinising the budget for what it says about opening Australia back to the world when the pandemic ebbs.

Federal government quashes Victoria’s foreign deals

Foreign Minister Marise Payne has used new powers to end Victoria’s controversial trade agreements with China, Syria and Iran.

Labor’s plan to boost post-pandemic manufacturing

The Labor Party has pledged the creation of a $15 billion National Reconstruction Fund to promote manufacturing in Australia’s post pandemic economy.

The partisan battlefield of the gender wars

Despite hopes it might be otherwise, the new round of the gender wars has become as rugged and nasty as their cousins, the culture and history wars.

Biden closes on the Presidency

This week in US politics has proved a tough reminder of how good we have it in Australia. We have an electoral commission, compulsory voting, and a less divided society. As Michelle Grattan writes, “a strong political system has a calming effect”. But we shouldn’t get too cosy while watching the US election from abroad.

Could a new national air fleet fight future bushfires?

The inquiry set up following last summer’s devastating bushfires has recommended the creation of a national aerial fire fighting capability and more transparent fuel load management strategies.

Premiers facing elections play hardball with hard borders

That old adage “never get between a premier and a bucket of money” has become “never get between a premier and a COVID election”.

Does Australia need an elimination strategy?

A number of states have essentially eliminated COVID-19 through tough border policies, should Australia as a nation do the same?

The delicate art of political distancing

Next week will see a socially-distanced parliament. Only 75-77 MPs will be permitted in the House of Representatives chamber at any one time, about half the full complement of normal times.

Who’ll be on the right side of COVID-19 history?

After the coronavirus nightmare has passed, harsh judgements will be made about which political leaders and health experts were on the right or wrong side in handling the crisis.