Guardian AU
Escapes, fires, stabbing: catastrophic security failures revealed in Australia’s immigration detention network
A US private prison multinational operating Australia's immigration detention network has presided over a string of serious security failures, including escapes by high-risk detainees, stabbings of staff, and fires — all linked to what critics describe as a deliberately lean staffing model. Multiple investigations have been triggered by the incidents, raising urgent questions about whether profit-driven cost-cutting is compromising safety. The revelations put pressure on Australian authorities to scrutinize the terms under which MTC holds some of the country's most vulnerable and volatile detainees.
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Labor urged to use anti-corruption commission appointment to restore public confidence in watchdog
The Albanese government is facing pressure to reform how it fills a key vacancy at the National Anti-Corruption Commission, with independent MP Helen Haines calling for a merit-based, independent selection process. Haines, who helped design the NACC's founding legislation, warns that time is running out to replace deputy commissioner Nicole Rose. The appointment is being framed as a critical test of whether the government is serious about maintaining public trust in the watchdog.
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Sydney Morning Herald
Teals in advanced talks to form new political party
Independent "teal" MPs are in advanced talks to form a unified political party, with the process expected to conclude within weeks. Senator David Pocock revealed his involvement in the discussions on Sunday, bringing the previously secret deliberations into public view. The move could significantly reshape the crossbench and formalize a political force that has grown in influence since the 2022 federal election.
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Sydney Morning Herald
Tony Abbott and Jim Chalmers, an unlikely pair of saviours for the Liberal Party
Tony Abbott, widely regarded as Australia's most formidable opposition politician, is set to assume the Liberal Party presidency at a moment of deep internal crisis. His return signals a strategic bet on combative, disciplined opposition as the party seeks to rebuild its identity and relevance. Meanwhile, Treasurer Jim Chalmers is inadvertently doing the Liberals a favour, giving them a clear economic target to run against heading into the next electoral cycle.
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‘We’re concerned’: US-based prediction markets taking bets on Australian elections and Albanese’s word choices
US-based prediction platforms Polymarket and Kalshi are accepting bets on Australian federal elections and niche political outcomes, including specific language used by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in parliament. The platforms, which operate outside Australian jurisdiction, have drawn scrutiny from financial and media regulators as well as gambling harm advocates. The trend highlights a growing regulatory blind spot as offshore prediction markets expand their reach into Australian political life.
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