Federal election 2025: Spendathon risks Australia’s AAA credit rating in rare rebuke

The ABC's Q&A program sparked heated debate over Welcome to Country ceremonies, with accusations of “gutter politics” and “straw man” arguments among panellists. Audience member Peter questioned how to resolve the contentious issue amid political division between Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton, with Dutton suggesting that excessive ceremonies diminish their significance, while Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek defended their appropriateness for Anzac Day. Greens leader Adam Bandt criticized Dutton's approach as misinformation, emphasizing the need for...

Concerns over strict US border enforcement are causing Australians to cancel or rethink their trips to the US, especially amid a weak Australian Dollar. Reports of travelers being detained, like two Germans at Honolulu Airport, have sparked fear, prompting some travelers, including academics, to reschedule or cancel their plans. While some Australians report having no issues upon entry, the US government's travel statistics show a decline of over 11% in overseas visitors in March compared...

NRL's Strict Head High Contact PolicyThe NRL’s head of football, Graham Annesley, emphasized that the league will maintain its strict head high contact policy during Magic Round, despite recent controversies over refereeing decisions. Annesley acknowledged frustrations surrounding the bunker’s involvement in minor incidents but insisted that the focus remains on serious foul play, citing a significant rise in high tackle penalties this year. He reaffirmed that there will be no change in policy, urging players...

SummarySt Kilda CEO Carl Dilena supported coach Ross Lyon’s intense criticism of players following their 45-point loss to the Brisbane Lions, noting that while nurturing is important, stern words are sometimes necessary. Lyon's animated approach, including a notable exchange with midfielder Hugo Garcia, aimed to elevate team standards after a recent decline in performance, as the team has lost three consecutive matches following a strong start. Dilena acknowledged the team's fluctuating performance and the heightened...

Chery Australia will not sell the newly revealed Himla ute from the Shanghai motor show but is developing a larger plug-in hybrid ute aimed at competing with the BYD Shark 6, expected to launch next year. Chery International president Zhang Guibling emphasized the importance of the Australian market for pickups and stated that the upcoming model will better cater to local needs, featuring advanced hybrid powertrains and safety standards. The Himla range will encompass various...

The Greens, led by Adam Bandt, will demand that Labor block any new coal or gas projects if they hold the balance of power in a hung parliament, citing the approval of over 30 projects since 2022 by Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek. They argue that existing laws allow Climate Minister Chris Bowen to block projects under the Safeguard Mechanism, which the Greens amended to limit climate pollution. Bandt emphasized that if Labor fails to act...