πŸ‡¦πŸ‡Ί Australian Politics

May 16th, 2026

Today's top 5 stories, curated by Daily Direct.

ABC AU

'Grossly incompetent': Action taken against rogue MP after online outburst

Mark Latham faces contempt proceedings after launching an online attack on the tribunal that ruled he unlawfully vilified and sexually harassed a fellow state MP. The move signals that parliamentary and legal bodies are willing to hold elected officials accountable for retaliatory conduct. It adds a new layer of consequences to what was already a damning finding against the veteran politician.

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ABC AU

Has the PM squandered his 'Big Tobacco' moment with gambling ads?

The Albanese government quietly released its response to the gambling harm inquiry on budget day, a move critics say was designed to bury bad news. The package has drawn sharp condemnation from advocates, who argue it falls well short of the sweeping reforms recommended by the inquiry. For a government that once signaled ambition on gambling reform, the muted response raises serious questions about political will versus industry influence.

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Guardian AU

Stafford byelection tipped to swing towards LNP as danger looms for Steven Miles’ leadership of Queensland Labor

The Stafford byelection is shaping up as a critical test for Queensland Labor, with analysts predicting a swing toward the ruling LNP in the Brisbane seat vacated by the death of independent MP Jimmy Sullivan. A strong LNP result would pile further pressure on former premier Steven Miles, whose leadership is already under scrutiny following Labor's defeat at the state election. The outcome could prove decisive for the party's direction heading into its next period in opposition.

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ABC AU

Tasmania to close legal loophole, to help child sex abuse survivors

Tasmania is moving to close a legal loophole that has allowed organisations to escape liability for child sexual abuse committed by non-employees, such as volunteers or contractors. The reform means survivors will no longer be blocked from seeking justice simply because their abuser held an informal role. It marks a significant step in strengthening institutional accountability for child protection failures.

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ABC AU

Breaking: Labor on track to win by-election in Brisbane seat of Stafford

Labor appears set to retain the Brisbane seat of Stafford in Saturday's by-election, despite a 4.1 percent swing against the party on the night's count. The result holds with postal votes still outstanding, suggesting the margin could yet tighten. A win, however narrow, will come as a relief to the government and signal its ability to hold ground in what has become a competitive urban battleground.

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