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.

Voter trust in politicians hits a new low

The Australian National University’s election study has underscored the woeful lack of trust voters have in the political system, and highlighted the role economic issues and Bill Shorten’s unpopularity played in the May poll outcome.

The death of a “grievance-based organisation”

Did Labor really lose the Federal election “because of a weak strategy that could not adapt to the change in Liberal leadership, a cluttered policy agenda that looked risky and an unpopular leader”.

Morrison warns against ‘negative globalism’

Delivering the Lowy Lecture, Prime Minister Scott Morrison said Australia “cannot afford to leave it to others to set the standards that will shape our global economy”.

It’s not in the national interest to soft pedal on China

The government’s attempt to stifle backbench contributions to the growing debate on China’s intentions is shortsighted at best, as the issue will only grow more urgent in the years ahead.

What next for Labor?

Anthony Albanese will face some tricky choices given the need to redouble Labor’s appeal to middle class suburbia while keeping left wing and progressive activists on board.

Fresh blood and new challenges for Labor and the Coalition

Should Labor jump to a generation when it chooses its new leader – and should Scott Morrison steal some Shorten policies to broaden his agenda in government?