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#43 - Part 1

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 1

>>23571695 Video: Two men charged over antisemitic attacks at Allawah synagogue, Maroubra and Dover Heights - NSW Police have charged two men over a string of antisemitic incidents, including graffiti on an Allawah synagogue, a Maroubra childcare centre that was later set alight, and a Dover Heights home once occupied by Jewish leader Alex Ryvchin. Cars were also torched on the same street. A 27-year-old has been charged with directing and participating in a criminal group, while a 26-year-old faces charges including displaying a Nazi symbol and damaging property. The arrests follow ASIO’s recent disclosure that Iranian operatives directed separate firebombings, prompting the government to expel Iran’s ambassador and move to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terror group.

>>23617355 Australia, UK and Canada Jewish groups make last-ditch plea not to recognise Palestine - The top Jewish organisations of Australia, the UK and Canada have issued a rare joint appeal urging their governments not to recognise a Palestinian state at the upcoming UN summit. The Executive Council of Australian Jewry, the Board of Deputies of British Jews, and the Canadian Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs warned recognition would be “seen by Hamas as a reward for its violence and rejectionism” and could undermine efforts to free hostages. They said recognition without Hamas’ disarmament “lacks credibility, borders on recklessness” and risks setting Palestinian statehood up for failure.

>>23627589 Climate, Palestine, investment on agenda as Albanese goes global – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has embarked on a three-nation tour to pitch Australia as a clean-energy powerhouse, promote his government’s social media reforms, and formally recognise Palestinian statehood. In New York, he will attend the UN General Assembly, join a France-Saudi conference on a two-state solution, and court global investors to back his $368bn AUKUS submarine pact and Future Made in Australia agenda. A meeting with Donald Trump remains uncertain, but Albanese will press for tariff exemptions and US backing. Stops in London and the UAE will cover trade, security, and climate diplomacy.

>>23630413 ‘Reckless’: Republicans threaten Australia with ‘punitive measures’ over Palestine recognition – Senior Republicans, including Ted Cruz and Elise Stefanik, warned Anthony Albanese that recognising Palestinian statehood would reward Hamas and fuel anti-Semitism. In an open letter also sent to UK, France, and Canada, they said the “reckless policy” undermined US interests and could invite “punitive measures” against Australia. Speaker Mike Johnson called recognition before hostage returns “baffling and deeply troubling”. The warning coincides with Albanese’s arrival in New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), the annual gathering of world leaders, where he will back Palestinian statehood, seek climate diplomacy wins, and attempt to secure AUKUS support if a meeting with Donald Trump goes ahead.

>>23631508 Video: Palestine statehood a 'point of contention' in US ties – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has landed in New York for UN General Assembly leaders’ week, where Australia, the UK, Canada and France plan to recognise Palestine. Hours before his arrival, 25 senior Republicans, including Ted Cruz, warned recognition “may invite punitive measures” and put Canberra at odds with US policy. Analysts said it could be a flashpoint in Albanese’s hoped-for first meeting with Donald Trump, though the two leaders may overcome differences as allies. The debate comes amid UN findings branding Israel’s Gaza campaign genocide, with 65,000 Palestinians killed since October 2023.

#43 - Part 2

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 2

>>23636659 Historic recognition:Australia formally recognises state of Palestine as Anthony Albanese arrives in US- (Video) Australia has formally recognised Palestine, joining more than 150 nations in a coordinated international push during UN General Assembly leaders’ week. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong framed recognition as a step towards peace, with Wong confirming government references will now use “State of Palestine.” The declaration acknowledges Palestinian Authority reforms, recognition of Israel, and excludes Hamas from any future role. The move drew sharp criticism from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who accused Australia of rewarding terrorism, and from the Coalition at home, while Palestinian officials welcomed recognition as a prerequisite for peace and urged “concrete action” to pressure Israel on settlements and attacks in the West Bank.

>>23636672 Video: Australia officially recognises Palestine, shrugging off Trump complaints – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has declared Australia will not let the United States dictate its Middle East policy, formally recognising Palestine alongside the UK, Canada and Portugal. Albanese said the move reflects Australia’s sovereignty and commitment to a two-state solution, despite US opposition and threats of “punitive measures” from senior Republicans. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu condemned recognition as a “huge reward to terrorism,” while Hamas hailed it as a victory. Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed immediate changes to official terminology and pledged reforms from the Palestinian Authority would guide further steps, such as opening an embassy. The Coalition criticised Labor’s timing, while Palestinian officials praised the decision as bold and principled. Albanese is in New York for the UN General Assembly, where he is also seeking his first meeting with Donald Trump.

>>23636685 Analysis: So much for cosying up to Trump. Albanese has asserted his independence on day one – "By officially recognising Palestinian statehood, Anthony Albanese has … issued a declaration of independence from the United States and an assertion of Australian sovereignty over its foreign policy. … Albanese rejected Trump’s view that recognising Palestine is a reward for Hamas … and kiboshed the idea Australia must be in lockstep with the US on every big global issue. … The reason Trump hasn’t made time to meet Albanese is not because he’s angry about Palestine, but because … he views Australia as something of an afterthought in the geopolitical chess game. … Disagreement over Palestine is just one more irritant in a relationship strained by tariffs, defence spending and climate." – Matthew Knott, The Age

>>23636698 Israeli MP Simcha Rothman appeals visa cancellation – Israeli MP Simcha Rothman has launched a legal appeal against Australia’s decision to cancel his visa, saying his political views on Hamas and Gaza were “lawfully held” and “mainstream” in Israel but misrepresented as inflammatory. The Religious Zionist Party member and Knesset committee chair was barred last month over fears his remarks, including describing Gazan children as “our enemies,” could provoke unrest. His lawyers argue the cancellation unlawfully burdened free political communication, noting his planned events were for Jewish audiences only. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke defended the decision, saying the government would prevent “hate and division” from being imported. Rothman addressed supporters virtually at an Australian Jewish Association event.

>>23642016 ‘Real hope for a place they call home’: Albanese’s plea to world leaders on Palestine - (Video) Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged world leaders at the United Nations in New York to seize a “moment of opportunity” to disarm Hamas and revive a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestinian conflict. Speaking a day after Australia formally recognised Palestine alongside Canada and Britain, Albanese said recognition offered “real hope for a place they call home” and must help drive Hamas “out of the region once and for all”. The move drew praise from France and condemnation from Israel, while Opposition Leader Sussan Ley told US Republicans Labor’s decision “does not enjoy bipartisan support” and would be reversed under a Coalition government.

#43 - Part 3

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 3

>>23680241 Albanese endorses Trump’s Gaza role, but isn’t ready to nominate him for a Nobel Prize – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has backed US President Donald Trump’s leadership in a Gaza peace plan, saying “you cannot envisage a pathway to peace without direct engagement of the United States.” Speaking after his 11-day overseas trip, Mr Albanese said recognising Palestine “helped to create the momentum” for the ceasefire proposal unveiled by Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. While declining to endorse Mr Trump for a Nobel Prize, he said the focus should be “peace and security for millions of people in the Middle East,” and left open a possible Australian role in post-war Gaza.

>>23691945 Video: Australian Jewish community devastated by attack at UK synagogue that shows “the risk is real and the fears are justified” – Australia’s Jewish community has expressed grief and fear after the Yom Kippur terrorist attack on a Manchester synagogue that killed two people and injured three. Executive Council of Australian Jewry president Daniel Aghion said the attack “will be felt very deeply here” and shows that “the risk is real and our fears are justified.” Adass Israel board member Benjamin Klein, whose Melbourne synagogue was torched last year in an arson attack allegedly linked to Iran, said the tragedy “could be Melbourne, it could be Manchester.” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the “heinous attack,” while Rabbi Jacqueline Ninio said Australians of all faiths had reached out to express solidarity with the Jewish community.

>>23691985 Opposition blasts planned pro-Palestine action at Opera House – Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has condemned a planned pro-Palestine rally at the Sydney Opera House on October 12, calling it “disgusting but not surprising” and accusing organisers of “sowing division” days after the second anniversary of the October 7 terrorist attacks. The Palestine Action Group says the event will demand “an end to genocide in Gaza” and sanctions on Israel, citing the Opera House’s anti-war history. NSW Police are considering the group’s request to hold the rally. Ley urged protesters to back Donald Trump’s Gaza peace plan instead, while NSW Jewish leaders said the demonstration “cannot be allowed to proceed.”

>>23691998 NSW Police cite ‘public safety concerns’ in effort to block Opera House rally – NSW Police have asked the Supreme Court to move a planned October 12 pro-Palestine rally from the Sydney Opera House, warning that “heightened public emotion” and crowd size could pose safety risks. Justice Desmond Fagan said a large turnout of “strongly motivated people” pressing toward the Opera House could lead to “a disaster.” Police estimate attendance could reach 100,000 and cited “engineering concerns” about the forecourt’s capacity. Premier Chris Minns backed police caution, while Opposition Leader Sussan Ley called the protest “completely counter-productive.” A hearing on whether the rally can proceed will be held Tuesday.

>>23703699 PM says October 7 ‘not a day for demonstrations’ ahead of anniversary rallies – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has urged “decent human behaviour” on the second anniversary of the Hamas attacks, saying “it is not a day for demonstrations”. Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan called planned pro-Palestinian rallies “deeply disrespectful”, while NSW Premier Chris Minns warned police would show “no tolerance for hateful behaviour”. Organisers described the events as vigils mourning Gaza’s devastation, but Albanese said protests would “undermine support for the Palestinian cause”. Zionist leaders condemned them as glorifying terror, while activist Nasser Mashni said calling vigils inappropriate was “anti-Palestinian racism”. Both Albanese and Sussan Ley will address parliament Tuesday, backing President Trump’s peace plan.

>>23703714 Protesters seek genocide declaration in Opera House fight – The Palestine Action Group has asked the NSW Supreme Court to rule that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza, as part of its legal battle to hold a rally at the Sydney Opera House. The group said it may appeal to the High Court if the protest is blocked and called on Premier Chris Minns to light the Opera House sails in Palestinian colours. Police argue the site cannot safely hold large crowds. Justice Desmond Fagan warned of potential “disaster” if tens of thousands converge on the forecourt, while the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies sought to intervene, citing community distress.

#43 - Part 4

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 4

>>23703739 ‘Sheer horror’: Pro-terrorism graffiti removed after uproar – (Video) Police are investigating pro-Hamas graffiti that appeared in Melbourne’s north on the second anniversary of the October 7 attacks, condemned by leaders as “abhorrent” and “deeply disgraceful”. Messages such as “Glory to Hamas” and “Oct 7, do it again” were found in Fitzroy and Preston before being removed. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said those responsible “must face the full force of the law”, while Deputy PM Richard Marles called the vandalism “a message of division”. Artist Nina Sanadze said seeing the graffiti filled her with “sheer horror”. Alex Ryvchin said the attacks revealed a “vicious streak” aimed at dividing Australians.

>>23708525 ‘Hamas vandals’ caught on security cameras – (Video) Masked offenders in high-visibility vests were filmed spray-painting “Glory to Hamas” on a Fitzroy billboard and defacing nearby shops in Northcote and Alexandra Parade in coordinated anti-Semitic graffiti attacks. Victoria Police and the Australian Federal Police are investigating, describing the incidents as “hate-based commentary” supporting a listed terrorist organisation. CCTV footage shows the offenders using rollers around 2am Tuesday. Detective Acting Sergeant Travis Jones said the vandalism was “devastating for the Jewish community” and vowed to find those responsible. Operation Park has made 257 arrests and logged 442 antisemitism reports since October 2023, with 10,500 police patrols at Jewish community sites.

>>23708560 Video: Opera House protest risks Hillsborough-like disaster, court hears – The NSW Court of Appeal will rule Thursday on whether a pro-Palestine rally can proceed at the Sydney Opera House, after police warned of “disaster” and a potential “Hillsborough-type tragedy.” Chief Justice Andrew Bell said the site’s “cul-de-sac” layout could cause a deadly crowd crush, while Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna cited fears of weapons, flares and “prohibited symbols.” Protest organisers argued the case had major implications for freedom of assembly and demanded the court recognise Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide. The NSW Jewish Board of Deputies joined the proceedings as an intervener to present its interests — warning of rising antisemitism and heightened community fear. Police said safety risks outweighed protesters’ symbolic use of the iconic venue.

>>23713223 President's Peace Plan:A moment of hope breaks the despair of the Gaza war – thanks to Donald Trump- (Video) US President Donald Trump has announced that Israel will halt its military campaign in Gaza after Hamas agreed to release all remaining hostages, in what could mark the first major step toward ending the two-year conflict. The ceasefire plan, brokered personally by Trump, would see Israel withdraw to an agreed line in exchange for the release of 20 living and 28 deceased hostages, along with more than 1900 Palestinian prisoners. Veteran diplomat Aaron David Miller said no US president had previously exerted such influence over Israel. Arab states including Qatar, Egypt and Jordan have reportedly supported the deal, which Trump said Netanyahu had “no choice” but to accept. Analysts warned, however, that key issues such as Hamas’s disarmament and Gaza’s future governance remain unresolved, leaving the peace process fragile.

>>23713270 Video: Court prohibits pro-Palestine protest at Sydney Opera House – The NSW Court of Appeal has banned a planned pro-Palestine march from ending at the Sydney Opera House, ruling the event posed “unacceptable” public safety risks. Justice Stephen Free said the proposed 40,000-strong protest could have “given rise to a risk of crowd crush,” echoing concerns raised by Chief Justice Andrew Bell about the forecourt’s limited capacity. The decision allows police to move on or arrest demonstrators who gather at the site. Organisers from the Palestine Action Group said they would instead march down George Street and accused authorities of suppressing democratic rights. Premier Chris Minns welcomed the ruling, saying it was “the right decision.” The court cited poor safety planning, limited exits, and parallels to the 1989 Hillsborough disaster in finding the location unsafe for mass assembly.

#43 - Part 5

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 5

>>23722450 Venezuela’s Maria Corina Machado wins Nobel Peace Prize, sparking White House anger – Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has won the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her decades-long fight for democracy under the Maduro regime, prompting outrage from allies of US President Donald Trump, who had lobbied for the award. Nobel Committee chair Jorgen Watne Frydnes praised Machado for keeping “the flame of democracy burning” in Venezuela, where she remains in hiding. Trump’s spokesman Steven Cheung said the committee “placed politics over peace,” while Machado partly dedicated her award to Trump for his “decisive support” of Venezuela’s democratic movement. The committee cited her courage in uniting opposition forces and defending “the principles of popular rule” amid growing global threats to democracy.

>>23730599 Video: Rogue senator Lidia Thorpe makes threat to ‘burn down parliament’ – Independent senator Lidia Thorpe has sparked outrage after telling a Melbourne rally she would “burn down Parliament House” to make a point about Palestine, later insisting the comment was “a metaphor” for community pain and not a literal threat. The remark came as thousands defied Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s calls to “turn down the heat” following a Gaza ceasefire announcement. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke and Tanya Plibersek condemned Thorpe’s words as “unacceptable” and “irresponsible,” while opposition leader in the Senate Michaelia Cash said they were “disgraceful” and warranted action. Jewish leaders also denounced her comments as “dangerous,” warning they inflamed tensions amid ongoing pro-Palestine protests nationwide.

>>23730606 Video: Lidia Thorpe’s protest remarks spark controversy as Israeli hostage release nears – Independent senator Lidia Thorpe has drawn criticism after telling a pro-Palestine rally in Melbourne she would “burn down Parliament House to make a point.” The remark came as about 3500 people marched in support of Palestine ahead of a Gaza ceasefire deal and the expected release of 20 Israeli hostages in exchange for nearly 2000 Palestinian prisoners. Federal opposition Senate leader Michaelia Cash condemned Thorpe’s comments as “disgraceful and shocking,” with the Coalition considering censure options. Jewish community members gathered in Caulfield to mark the pending peace deal, while Indigenous activist Gary Foley warned against “fake Trump bullshit,” and speakers said a ceasefire “does not mean liberation.”

>>23730614 Video: Lidia Thorpe's 'burn down Parliament House' remark faces AFP probe – The Australian Federal Police has launched an investigation into whether independent senator Lidia Thorpe broke any laws by saying she would “burn down Parliament House” to support Palestine. The AFP confirmed its National Security Investigations team in Victoria, led by Commissioner Krissy Barrett, is assessing the remarks for possible breaches of legislation. Thorpe later said her statement was “clearly a figure of speech” and “not a literal threat.” Opposition leader in the Senate Michaelia Cash called the comments “disgraceful,” while ministers Tony Burke and Tanya Plibersek also condemned them as “unacceptable” and “irresponsible.” The AFP said it was acting to “reassure the community” the matter was being handled “appropriately and in a timely manner.”

>>23742370 Video: Ceasefire called on Sunday pro-Palestine protests – Melbourne’s Free Palestine Coalition has announced it will suspend its weekly rallies following the Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, ending two years of mass demonstrations outside the State Library of Victoria. Spokesperson Mai Saif said the protests were “suspended for now,” though larger national actions for “justice and liberation” would continue. Lord Mayor Nick Reece and Victoria Police welcomed the decision, calling it a “relief” for the city after 25,000 police shifts were used to maintain order. Jewish community leaders said the pause would help rebuild social trust and allow Jewish Melburnians to feel safe again. A smaller anti-racism protest remains scheduled for Sunday, with police treating it as a routine event.

#43 - Part 6

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 6

>>23742390 Video: Pro-Palestine activists win protest law challenge in Supreme Court – Pro-Palestine activists in Sydney have overturned major parts of New South Wales protest laws, with the Supreme Court ruling that restrictions on assemblies near places of worship “impermissibly burdened” the implied constitutional freedom of political communication. Justice Anna Mitchelmore found the six-month-old law “not necessary,” saying existing Crimes Act amendments already addressed harassment and obstruction. Premier Chris Minns said the ruling “does not mean there is free rein” outside worship sites. Palestine Action Group organiser Josh Lees accused Mr Minns of “cooking the books” and “manufacturing a supposed anti-Semitism crisis” to justify “an outrageous overreach” that he said weaponised public fear against the pro-Palestine movement.

>>23775854 Video: Mossad names mastermind of Australian antisemitic attacks – Israel’s Mossad has identified Sardar Amar, a senior Iranian Revolutionary Guard commander, as the figure behind the 2024 arson attacks on Melbourne’s Adass Israel Synagogue and Sydney’s Lewis’ Continental Kitchen. The Albanese government expelled Iran’s ambassador and moved to list the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation following ASIO’s findings linking Iran to the attacks. Mossad said Amar oversaw a network promoting global assaults on Jewish targets, including foiled operations in Greece and Germany. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke called Iran’s actions “disgraceful.” ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess said the IRGC used proxies to conceal involvement, adding Iran “literally and figuratively lit the matches.”

>>23775891 Palestinian Authority calls for Australian troops to help secure Gaza peace – The Palestinian Authority has urged Australia to join an international peacekeeping force in Gaza, with deputy foreign minister Omar Awadallah saying Australia could assist “by sending forces, by sending experts, by supporting the training of Palestinian security personnel.” He said an Australian presence would assure Palestinians the force sought “to stabilise the situation, not… another kind of occupation.” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Australia would consider contributions, having already sent an ADF liaison officer to the US-led coordination centre in Israel. Awadallah said there was “no role for Hamas” in post-war Gaza and welcomed Australia’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, calling it “of great importance.”

>>23788843 Video: Iranian state media Press TV hit with foreign influence notice – The Albanese government has branded Iranian broadcaster Press TV a foreign government agent under the Foreign Influence Transparency Scheme, giving it until November 18 to declare its ties to Tehran or face prosecution. Attorney-General Michelle Rowland said non-compliance could lead to criminal penalties. Press TV, sanctioned in 2023 over Iran’s treatment of women, gained attention after interviewing Senator Fatima Payman, who later apologised. Liberal senator Dave Sharma said the action was “two years overdue,” accusing Labor of weak enforcement. Iranian-Australian groups welcomed the move, calling Press TV a “propaganda arm of the regime.” The decision follows ASIO findings linking Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps to anti-Semitic attacks in Australia.

>>23797004 Hamas’ court bid to overturn its Australian terror listing – Hamas has asked the Federal Court to overturn its designation as a terrorist organisation, arguing the listing breaches international law, impedes ceasefire talks and legitimises Israeli attacks in Gaza. The application was filed through a case brought by Indigenous activist Robbie Thorpe, who claims the terror designation unlawfully restricts freedom of political communication in Australia by silencing discussion of Palestinian resistance. Hamas’ submission argues the listing “declares as unlawful the armed struggle of the Palestinian people” and unfairly brands Gaza’s civilian population as terror supporters. The Commonwealth is contesting the case, which Jewish leaders called “extraordinary and chilling.” Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke said Hamas continues to meet the terrorism threshold, citing its October 7, 2023 attacks. Hamas plans to lodge a fresh delisting request, while legal expert Ben Saul labelled the proscription “broad and excessive.”

#43 - Part 7

Middle East Conflict - The Australian Perspective - Part 7

>>23809081 Video: Chaos as pro-Palestine protesters blockade arms expo – Thirteen protesters have been arrested after a pro-Palestine “blockade” outside Sydney’s Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition turned violent. Police used pepper spray as activists clashed with officers, with two police injured and several protesters alleging brutality. Palestine Action Group organiser Joshua Lees said he was “blinded” by pepper spray, accusing police of targeting him. Superintendent Paul Dunstan said officers were “set upon” and confirmed charges for assaulting police and resisting arrest. The protesters condemned the NSW government-sponsored event, which hosted major arms firms including BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin. Inside, Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy defended Australia’s defence partnerships while calling for protest “respect”.

>>23831522 Hizb ut Tahrir’s Sydney conference sparks terror listing pressure – Hizb ut Tahrir, an Islamist political movement that rejects democracy and advocates the establishment of a transnational caliphate, plans to hold a national conference in Bankstown on November 23, triggering warnings from the Minns government that “hate speech has no place in NSW” and intensified pressure to list the group as a terror organisation. The event follows ASIO chief Mike Burgess’ accusation that Hizb ut Tahrir’s “provocative behaviour, offensive rhetoric and insidious strategy” mirror neo Nazi tactics. Federal and NSW opposition figures say the conference risks inflaming tensions, urging the Albanese government to intervene. Jewish community leaders expressed alarm that the group can openly advertise such a gathering, calling it a sign of growing extremist confidence in Australia.

>>23835051 Plans for army’s 7bn infantry fighting vehicles exposed in Iran linked cyber attack – Pro Hamas hacking group Cyber Toufan, widely suspected of being an Iranian state proxy, has stolen classified plans for Australia’s 7bn Redback infantry fighting vehicles in a mass breach of Israeli defence companies. Posted online were 3D renderings and technical data for Elbit Systems’ weapons turrets – including Australian designed EOS components – after the hackers infiltrated supply chain firm MAYA Technologies and spent more than a year recording internal systems. The leak also exposed details of Elbit’s helmet display and the Spike NLOS missile under ADF consideration. CyberCX warned the incident highlights escalating global cyber risks to AUKUS era projects. Defence and Hanwha declined comment as ASD and ASIO continue warning that foreign services are actively targeting Australia’s key military programs.

#43 - Part 8

Australian Politics and Society - Part 1

>>23538724 Video: Anti-immigration rallies held across Australia as clashes break out in Adelaide and Melbourne - Anti-immigration rallies have been staged nationwide, with scuffles in Melbourne where police used pepper spray and in Adelaide where a man identifying as a member of the National Socialist Network tried to speak, ending the event. Police reported three arrests, including for assault and disguise offences. In Sydney, thousands marched with chants of “save the nation, stop the invasion,” while counter-protesters carried “no to racism” signs. Federal minister Amanda Rishworth said, “Hate has no place in the Australian community,” while federal MP Bob Katter told a Townsville rally, “When oppression becomes law, then resistance becomes duty.” Shadow Attorney-General Julian Leeser warned of antisemitic and racist undertones as police separated rival groups.

>>23538742 Video: Politicians condemn anti-immigration rallies in eight capital cities - Demonstrators have gathered in cities across the country as part of a series of 'March for Australia' rallies, calling for a reduction in so-called 'mass immigration.' The rallies have drawn condemnation from most federal politicians, who argue that attendees represent a small, vocal segment attempting to undermine social cohesion. -

>>23538746 Freeman placard ignites fury as rival demonstrators clash at anti-immigration protests - Rival rallies across Australia drew thousands, with violent clashes in Melbourne where police used pepper spray, bottles were thrown and six arrests made. In Adelaide, 15,000 people turned out, and a man held a placard of alleged police killer Dezi Freeman captioned “Free Man.” In Canberra, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson told supporters she was “proud” to see large crowds, while Melbourne was marred by a fight between pro-Israel commentator Avi Yemini and neo-Nazi Thomas Sewell. Protest organiser Hugo Lennon attacked Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke for calling the protest “un-Australian,” pledging to rally again on Australia Day. Shadow Attorney-General Julian Leeser warned of antisemitic and racist undertones as police confirmed officer injuries.

>>23538763 Video: Neo-Nazis lead violent anti-immigration march as clashes break out in CBD - Melbourne’s CBD erupted as anti-immigration and counter-protesters clashed, with police using capsicum spray, bean-bag rounds and making six arrests. About 150 National Socialist Network members led the March for Australia, taunting people of colour and attacking pro-Israel commentator Avi Yemini. Neo-Nazi leader Tom Sewell urged unity, declaring his group had defended the “Aussie flag.” In Adelaide, a placard of alleged police killer Dezi Freeman appeared, while in Sydney neo-Nazis handed out flyers and shouted “Heil Australia.” Victorian Police Minister Anthony Carbines called protesters “unhinged grubs.” Organisers Hugo Lennon and Harrison McLean addressed the rally, which also saw an Indigenous speaker pushed offstage as rival groups set fire to Australian and Palestinian flags.

>>23538789 PM says some good people marched on Sunday, blames exploitation by neo-Nazis - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has said “good people” attended Sunday’s anti-immigration rallies but warned they were exploited by neo-Nazis sowing division. Parliament erupted as Labor, the Coalition and the Greens clashed over far-right extremism and the presence of Iranian, Hamas and Hezbollah insignia at pro-Palestine marches. Albanese urged calm, saying multiculturalism defines Australia, while Opposition Leader Sussan Ley said protests were “attended by people of goodwill, but hijacked by violent neo-Nazis.” Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi condemned “racist, white supremacist” rallies and called One Nation MPs “merchants of hate.” Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie shouted back: “Who supported Australian Jews in your team? No one,” as tempers flared across the chamber.

>>23538799 Video: Premier hits back at neo-Nazi ‘goons’ who gatecrashed press conference - Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has condemned neo-Nazis after National Socialist Network leader Thomas Sewell and associate Nathan Bull gatecrashed her press conference with Treasurer Jaclyn Symes, forcing its abandonment. Allan said she was “unharmed and undeterred” and wore the neo-Nazis’ hatred “as a badge of honour,” vowing to defend multicultural, LGBTIQA+, First Peoples and Jewish communities. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the incident “horrific,” noting extremists were “openly in uniform” at Sunday’s rallies. Police confirmed Allan’s security team intervened as Sewell shouted claims that Australians are being denied the right to protest. Sewell later appeared in court contesting separate charges including intimidating a police officer and breaching safety orders.

#43 - Part 9

Australian Politics and Society - Part 2

>>23538806 Video: Neo-Nazi Thomas Sewell arrested outside Melbourne court over alleged attack on Indigenous protest site - Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell has been arrested outside Melbourne Magistrates’ Court over an alleged assault on Camp Sovereignty, a sacred Aboriginal site in Kings Domain targeted during Sunday’s anti-immigration rallies. Police confirmed detectives detained Sewell, 32, for questioning, though no charges have yet been laid. Sewell had earlier disrupted Premier Jacinta Allan’s press conference, shouting false claims that Australians lack protest rights and that 50,000 attended Sunday’s rally. Allan declared, “I am not afraid. We know how these goons operate. They whip up fear to divide our society. They will fail.” She also announced an anti-hate taskforce with Victoria Police, warning extremists were exploiting social divisions to spread racism and fear.

>>23538832 Video: Neo-Nazi leader arrested outside court after attack on Indigenous encampment - Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell has been arrested outside Melbourne Magistrates’ Court over an alleged assault on Camp Sovereignty, a sacred Indigenous burial site in Southbank. Police said detectives detained Sewell, 32, and two associates, including Nathan Bull, hours after he had heckled Premier Jacinta Allan with cries of “Heil, Australia.” Video captured Sewell and dozens of National Socialist Network members charging the encampment following Sunday’s anti-immigration rally. Sewell was at court representing himself on separate charges of intimidating a police officer and breaching safety orders, and clashed with officers over claims of bias at protests. Supporters Jacob Hersant and Jimeone Roberts attended, with Hersant appealing a conviction for an illegal Nazi salute.

>>23538869 Golden Grove man to face court over placard of Dezi Freeman pictured at anti-immigration rally - A 39-year-old man from Golden Grove has been charged after displaying a placard of alleged police killer Dezi Freeman at Adelaide’s March for Australia rally. The sign featured Freeman’s image alongside the words “Free Man” and a Southern Cross symbol. Police said the man attended a station on Tuesday after authorities urged him to come forward and was charged with offensive behaviour. He was bailed to appear in the Adelaide Magistrates Court on October 28. South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas had also called for him to surrender. Freeman, 56, remains on the run after allegedly killing Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart in Porepunkah, with more than 400 police engaged in a major manhunt.

>>23542244 Video: Prime minister insists $408 million deportation deal with Nauru not a 'secret - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has defended a $408 million agreement to send members of the so-called NZYQ cohort to Nauru, rejecting claims it was hidden. The group consists of people released from immigration detention after the High Court ruled indefinite detention unlawful. The agreement, signed by Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke with Nauruan President David Adeang, also includes $70 million in annual support, though key details such as numbers, timeframes and upfront payments remain unclear. Albanese said “it’s hardly secret” and that people with no visa rights must leave Australia. Human rights lawyers and crossbench MPs condemned the deal, with senator David Pocock calling it “a cynical and eye-wateringly expensive political fix.”

>>23542433 ‘Lay down your guns’; top cop’s direct message to accused killer Dezi Freeman - Victoria Police chief commissioner Mike Bush has urged accused double killer Dezi Freeman to “lay down your firearms,” as 450 officers backed by interstate police intensify the manhunt in Victoria’s high country. Freeman, 56, is accused of ambushing police at his Porepunkah property with a homemade shotgun, killing Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart, and seriously injuring a third officer. Police raided multiple rural properties with Special Operations Group units, armoured vehicles and helicopters, warning anyone helping Freeman faces prosecution. Blue lights illuminated Melbourne landmarks in tribute to the slain officers, hailed as heroes, as colleagues vowed they would not leave until Freeman is in custody.

#43 - Part 10

Australian Politics and Society - Part 3

>>23542517 Police reviewing 'remarkable' amount of Dezi Freeman information a week after Porepunkah shooting - Victoria Police say they have received a “remarkable” volume of information as the manhunt for accused double killer Dezi Freeman enters its second week. Superintendent Brett Kahan confirmed officers believe Freeman is alive and being harboured, urging those assisting him to come forward. Freeman, 56, allegedly killed Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart at his Porepunkah property while police executed a warrant for historical sex offences, and injured a third officer. More than 450 tips have been received, with police saturating towns around Mount Buffalo National Park, expanding the search to Wangaratta, and considering a reward. Funerals for Thompson and De Waart will be held with full honours in coming days.

>>23548382 Anthony Albanese talks critical minerals in ‘warm’ chat with Trump ahead of US visit - Anthony Albanese has held his fourth call with Donald Trump since the US President’s re-election, discussing trade, economic co-operation and critical minerals. The Australian Prime Minister described the exchange as “warm and constructive” and said shared security interests were also covered. Albanese will travel to New York later this month to address the UN General Assembly, where he will recognise the State of Palestine, a policy at odds with Washington. The call fuels hopes of a first face-to-face meeting, though uncertainty lingers over AUKUS as the Pentagon reviews the submarine pact.

>>23554268 ‘Lots going on’: Rudd weighs in after Trump, Albanese speak for fourth time - Anthony Albanese and Donald Trump held their fourth call since Trump’s re-election, discussing trade, security and critical minerals ahead of a possible meeting at this month’s UN General Assembly in New York. Albanese described the exchange as “warm and constructive” but did not mention AUKUS, which remains under Pentagon review. Australia’s ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, welcomed the call, saying the relationship was “going from strength to strength.” Critics note Albanese has yet to meet Trump in person, while US allies including Britain, Japan and India have secured face-to-face talks.

>>23555135 High Court throws out Ben Roberts-Smith’s defamation appeal bid - The High Court has rejected Ben Roberts-Smith’s final attempt to overturn his defamation loss, ending seven years of litigation costing more than $30 million. The former SAS corporal, accused of murdering four unarmed Afghan prisoners including a man with a prosthetic leg, failed to gain special leave to appeal after the Full Court upheld Justice Anthony Besanko’s findings. The court said the case raised no legal principle and had “insufficient prospects of success.” Roberts-Smith must pay Nine’s legal costs. Journalists Nick McKenzie and Chris Masters hailed the ruling, crediting SAS witnesses and remembering Afghan victims whose families are still waiting for justice.

>>23555154 Video: Australian Army called in to assist Victoria Police in hunt for alleged cop killer Dezi Freeman – Specialist Australian Defence Force units, including air surveillance assets, have been deployed to Victoria’s high country after police requested assistance in the search for 56-year-old Dezi Freeman, accused of fatally shooting Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart on August 26. Defence Minister Richard Marles said the ADF would provide planning and technical support. Superintendent Brett Kahan said some locals may be harbouring Freeman, a self-styled “sovereign citizen.” Relatives and neighbours branded him a “coward” and “hypocrite” for accepting welfare for decades while rejecting the legitimacy of government.

>>23555170 Video: ‘My superhero’: Brother’s tribute to fallen officer – Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart, 34, was farewelled at a moving funeral service at the Victoria Police Academy, remembered by his younger brother Sacha as “my Batman” and “a ray of sunshine” whose smile and kindness touched all. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Premier Jacinta Allan, Police Minister Anthony Carbines and Chief Commissioner Mike Bush joined 3000 mourners. Tributes recalled his adventurous spirit, multilingual skills and devotion to family. Medals were presented in his honour, displayed alongside a Batman statue. De Waart-Hottart and Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson were killed while executing a warrant in Porepunkah; Freeman remains at large.

#43 - Part 11

Australian Politics and Society - Part 4

>>23555183 Video: Police say $1m bounty is 'just another avenue' in the capture of Dezi Freeman – Victoria Police have offered a record $1 million reward for information leading to the arrest of alleged cop killer Desmond Freeman, accused of fatally shooting Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart on August 26. Detective Inspector Dean Thomas said the unprecedented reward recognises “the seriousness of this violent offending” and is aimed at drawing out those who may be harbouring him. More than 450 officers remain dedicated to the 12-day search across bushland and properties, with Freeman believed to be armed and dangerous. Authorities remain open to the possibility he is still on the run, but also concede he could be dead through self-harm.

>>23555214 Video: ‘Real and likely risk of serious injury or death’ if neo-Nazi released, police say – Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell has been charged with more than 20 offences, including assault and violent disorder, after allegedly directing National Socialist Network followers to attack people at Camp Sovereignty in Melbourne’s Kings Domain. Police told court the attack left a woman needing staples for a head wound, with others injured, and warned Sewell was almost certain to reoffend if granted bail. Prosecutors cited further violent incidents, including clashes in Bourke Street Mall and at anti-immigration rallies, while Sewell was already on bail for intimidating a police officer. Magistrate Donna Bakos will decide on bail on Friday.

>>23555239 Video: ‘Endanger safety’: neo-Nazi will remain behind bars after alleged assault at Camp Sovereignty – Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell has been denied bail after Melbourne Magistrates Court ruled his release posed a risk to public safety. Magistrate Donna Bakos said Sewell faced “serious” charges, including 21 counts of assault, violent disorder and affray, arising from an alleged unprovoked attack by 30 National Socialist Network members on Camp Sovereignty in Kings Domain. A young woman required staples for a head wound. Police told the court Sewell had “complete control” over his followers and a history of escalating violence, including an alleged assault during an August 9 march in Melbourne’s CBD.

>>23555288 Video: Jacinta Nampijinpa Price ordered to remove flag in Senate chamber – Liberal senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price was ordered to take off an Australian flag draped over her shoulders during a speech calling for flag burning to be criminalised, after Greens senator Nick McKim objected to her use of a “prop.” Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie defended her, while One Nation leader Pauline Hanson moved a motion urging parliament to outlaw desecration of the flag. Price, who also criticised the Indian community’s voting patterns during recent anti-immigration protests, said the flag symbolised gratitude, citizenship and national service, and condemned protesters for burning it in Melbourne.

>>23562518 Video: Thousands farewell police officer who tackled life to the fullest – Thousands gathered at the Victoria Police Academy to farewell Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson, who was killed alongside colleague Vadim de Waart-Hottart in Porepunkah. Partner Lisa Thompson recalled their final weekend together, saying he taught her “how brilliant life is, if you have the courage to try.” Sisters Lois Kirk and Diane Thompson described their brother as the family’s protector, while friend Jason Williams said his “Steve Irwin gene” defined a life of risk and adventure. Police chief commissioner Mike Bush hailed Thompson as “highly respected” and loyal, while colleagues honoured him with a kilometre-long guard of honour. Thompson, 59, was due to retire last week and planned to travel South America before his death.

>>23562564 Trump Renames DOD to Department of War - (Video) President Donald Trump has signed an executive order allowing the Pentagon to use “Department of War” as a secondary title, authorising Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and senior officials to adopt terms such as “Secretary of War” and “Deputy Secretary of War.” The White House said the change “conveys a stronger message of readiness and resolve.” Trump argued that while the U.S. won under the original War Department, later conflicts often ended in “a sort of tie.” Hegseth backed the move, saying, “we haven’t won a major war since,” and emphasised that “words matter,” pledging that the renamed department would fight decisively rather than become trapped in endless wars.

#43 - Part 12

Australian Politics and Society - Part 5

>>23562572 Video: Donald Trump orders return to the US 'War Department - President Donald Trump has signed an executive order renaming the Pentagon as the “Department of War,” reviving the title it held until 1949. The White House said the move allows Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and senior officials to use secondary titles such as “Secretary of War.” Trump described it as “an attitude … it’s really about winning,” while Hegseth, introduced by Trump under the new title, declared, “We’re going to go on the offence, not just on defence. Maximum lethality, not tepid legality.” Supporters in Congress have introduced legislation to make the change permanent, but critics warn it is costly and a distraction.

>>23567113 Victoria becomes first Australian state to formally table treaty legislation in parliament - Victoria has introduced historic treaty legislation establishing Gellung Warl, a new authority making permanent the First Peoples’ Assembly. The bill promises to “reckon with the past” while assuring it takes nothing from the broader community. Gellung Warl will oversee decision-making on policies affecting First Peoples, continue the Yoorrook Commission’s truth-telling, and receive permanent funding. Co-chairs Ngarra Murray and Rueben Berg said it would “reshape the story” and “reset the relationship.” Premier Jacinta Allan said it puts decision-making power into Aboriginal hands. The Coalition vowed to oppose the bill, likening it to the Voice referendum, but with Greens and minor parties backing it, the legislation is expected to pass, making Victoria the first state to embed treaty in law.

>>23567129 Video: Victorian students from age four to year 10 to learn colonisation history - Victorian students from prep to year 10 will learn colonisation history through curriculum shaped by the Yoorrook Justice Commission’s Truth be Told report. The treaty bill says content will be co-designed with Gellung Warl, a new permanent authority embedding the First Peoples’ Assembly, alongside education authorities and Aboriginal organisations, with final approval by the minister. Premier Jacinta Allan said it is “about ensuring that future generations understand the history of this great state” and that “understanding history is about moving forward together.” The bill also proposes renaming places in Aboriginal languages and creates a watchdog to oversee compliance with Closing the Gap commitments.

>>23571701 Police bracing for violence in Melbourne CBD, as four protests planned for Saturday - Victoria Police are preparing a large-scale operation in Melbourne’s CBD on Saturday, with four rallies set to overlap, raising the risk of clashes between far-right and far-left activists. Events include a “Rally against racism,” “Sovereignty never ceded,” an anti-government protest, and the anti-immigration “Save Australia” rally. Superintendent Troy Papworth warned some participants “seek conflict and confrontation,” citing the violent August 31 march led by 150 National Socialist Network members. Police will deploy specialist squads, enforce weapon searches, and prioritise protecting Camp Sovereignty, which neo-Nazis attacked last month.

>>23571742 Video: Donald Trump accuses Australian author Scott Stuart’s children’s book of ‘radical gender ideology’ - US President Donald Trump has targeted My Shadow Is Pink, a children’s book by Australian author Scott Stuart, accusing it of promoting “radical gender ideology.” At a Religious Liberty Commission event, Trump introduced a 12-year-old student who said he was forced to read the book in fifth grade and bullied because of his faith. Stuart responded in a video, saying Trump was using his books for political gain and the student as a pawn. Stuart’s agent Sarah McKenzie praised the book as “groundbreaking,” stressing its core message of acceptance, equality and love.

>>23571755 MRF-D 25.3: Mid-Deployment Message - (Video) U.S. Marines with Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 25.3 give a message for the mid-point of their deployment, July 7, 2025. MRF-D is an annual six-month rotational deployment to enhance interoperability with the Australian Defence Force and allies and partners and provide a forward-postured crisis response force in the Indo-Pacific.

#43 - Part 13

Australian Politics and Society - Part 6

>>23578960 Activist assassinated:Labor, opposition condemn ‘political violence’ after Trump ally Charlie Kirk shot dead- (Video) The killing of American conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Utah has drawn bipartisan condemnation in Canberra. Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles called the shooting “an absolute tragedy,” stressing Australia’s commitment to peaceful political debate. Opposition deputy Sussan Ley said the Coalition stood “in solidarity with those who mourn,” while Liberal senator James Paterson labelled the attack “absolutely shocking” and noted an “uptick” in political violence. Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young blamed America’s “gun culture and culture of political assassination,” contrasting it with Australia. The debate follows ASIO warnings of rising radicalism and declining social cohesion at home.

>>23578901 Conservative activist Charlie Kirk criticised Australian politics for years before death - American commentator Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA, was shot dead during a Utah speaking event in what authorities described as a “political assassination.” The 31-year-old, long a critic of Australian policy, frequently attacked Canberra’s stance on free speech, Covid-19 restrictions, immigration, and gun control. He defended Elon Musk in a 2024 censorship row with Anthony Albanese, praised Melbourne protesters who shut down a Drag Queen Story Time, and denounced Novak Djokovic’s deportation as a “human rights abuse.” Kirk also cited research challenging Australia’s gun buyback. President Trump mourned him as “The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk.”

>>23578932 Donald J. Trump Truth: We must all pray for Charlie Kirk, who has been shot. A great guy from top to bottom. GOD BLESS HIM!

>>23578932 Donald J. Trump Truth: The Great, and even Legendary, Charlie Kirk, is dead. No one understood or had the Heart of the Youth in the United States of America better than Charlie. He was loved and admired by ALL, especially me, and now, he is no longer with us. Melania and my Sympathies go out to his beautiful wife Erika, and family. Charlie, we love you!

>>23578932 Donald J. Trump Truth: In honor of Charlie Kirk, a truly Great American Patriot, I am ordering all American Flags throughout the United States lowered to Half Mast until Sunday evening at 6 P.M.

>>23578932 Donald J. Trump Truth: (Video) TO MY GREAT FELLOW AMERICANS…

>>23589750 Video: At Australian and UK vigils, Charlie Kirk supporters say death won't kill his message - Candlelit vigils in Sydney and London brought together supporters of slain US conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot dead in Utah. In Sydney, about 350 people gathered as Turning Point Australia founder Joel Jammal declared, “it’s going to take more than one bullet to silence his message,” urging followers to join weekend anti-government protests. In London, around a thousand mourners braved heavy rain outside Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s residence, many in MAGA hats and draped in US and UK flags. Kirk’s Turning Point USA had spawned international offshoots, including Turning Point Australia and Turning Point UK, which have hosted figures such as Nigel Farage and collaborated with One Nation.

>>23589794 Charlie Kirk’s influence on Joel Jammal and Australian conservative Christian politics - Joel Jammal, a Christian conservative activist, first came to prominence at University of Technology Sydney when he refused mandatory consent training before graduating. He went on to found Turning Point Australia, directly inspired by Charlie Kirk’s Turning Point USA, and credits Kirk’s organisation with providing the support and model needed to establish the group four years ago. Jammal said plans were underway to bring Kirk and his wife Erika to Australia on tour, calling him “a family man winning a noble fight to reconnect with politics.” After Kirk’s assassination, Jammal hosted a Sydney vigil, insisting no one could “fill Charlie’s shoes,” while acknowledging Kirk’s enduring impact on his own activism.

#43 - Part 14

Australian Politics and Society - Part 7

>>23590201 Video: Sussan Ley sacks Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price from Liberal frontbench - Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has removed Jacinta Nampijinpa Price from the shadow ministry after she refused to apologise for comments linking Indian migration to Labor’s vote and declined to back Ley’s leadership. Ley said the remarks had “caused Australians of Indian heritage significant hurt” and that confidence in the leader was essential for frontbenchers. Price, who labelled her comments “clumsy” but not apologetic, vowed to keep speaking out from the backbench. The saga has fuelled internal divisions, with Alex Hawke and Dave Sharma criticising Price’s stance, while Tony Abbott defended her as “a big loss” to the frontbench.

>>23591389 Marine Corps Ospreys to remain in Australia after annual rotation ends - U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys will stay in Australia after this year’s Marine Rotational Force-Darwin ends, the Defence Department confirmed. The tiltrotors, part of rotations since 2017, will be prepositioned at Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport to reduce transport costs, ease border burdens, and boost availability for training with Australian forces. Marines will conduct inspections before contracted support assumes maintenance. Australian army Brig. Gen. Mick Say said the move “represents the continuing development of a deeper relationship with the United States.” The plan sits alongside other U.S. posture initiatives, including future submarine rotations under AUKUS.

>>23591551 Video: Court finds Brittany Higgins made false claims in media interviews - The WA Supreme Court has ruled that Brittany Higgins’ 2021 media interviews about her alleged rape in Parliament House contained 26 “false or misleading aspects” that could not be solely explained by trauma. Justice Paul Tottle found Higgins had “demonstrated such an indifference to the truth that her account… can only be regarded as dishonest,” especially in portraying a political cover-up by then Liberal senator Linda Reynolds. He said Higgins embellished and speculated, passing off speculation as fact. Higgins has been ordered to pay Reynolds more than $340,000 in damages and interest. Justice Tottle found Reynolds an honest witness overall, though her testimony was sometimes discursive and reflected a politician’s instinct to defend her conduct.

>>23591587 Brittany Higgins could lose $2.4m payout after Linda Reynolds’ defamation win – A WA Supreme Court judgment has found Brittany Higgins made “objectively untrue and misleading” statements in media interviews and social media posts to bolster her false claim of a political cover-up, awarding Linda Reynolds more than $340,000 in damages and interest. Justice Paul Tottle said Higgins’ efforts to lend credibility to her story showed “indifference to the truth”, identifying 26 false or misleading aspects in her public accounts. The ruling threatens Higgins’ $2.4m commonwealth compensation payment, with Reynolds’ lawyers signalling they may pursue her trust assets. Reynolds declared her reputation “finally and fully vindicated”, while Higgins issued a statement expressing gratitude the matter had concluded.

>>23591612 Albanese must ‘accept responsibility for Higgins’ lies’: Reynolds – Linda Reynolds has urged the Albanese government to accept responsibility for “enabling Ms Higgins to perpetuate her lies” after Justice Paul Tottle’s ruling cleared her and ex-chief of staff Fiona Brown of any cover-up. In a statement to The Australian, Reynolds said Brittany Higgins and David Sharaz “concocted a deliberate plan” to weaponise rape allegations for political purposes, with 26 false or misleading statements identified in Higgins’ media interviews. Reynolds said the $2.4m commonwealth settlement with Higgins rested on “untrue” claims and insisted Labor’s handling of the matter compounded the damage to her reputation.

>>23591631 Brittany Higgins ordered to pay 80 per cent of Linda Reynolds’ legal costs – Brittany Higgins has been ordered to pay most of Linda Reynolds’s legal costs in their defamation battle, with the bill expected to exceed $1m. Justice Paul Tottle ruled Ms Higgins must cover 80 per cent after finding her 2022–23 social media posts defamed her former boss. Ms Reynolds was previously awarded $315,000 in damages plus $26,000 interest. A proposed settlement before trial, offering $200,000 and a joint “statement of mutual regret,” was deemed unreasonable as it failed to vindicate Ms Reynolds’s reputation. Reynolds is also pursuing separate legal action over Higgins’s $2.4m commonwealth payout.

#43 - Part 15

Australian Politics and Society - Part 8

>>23591692 Video: Trump calls Albanese 'a good man' after latest call – Donald Trump praised Anthony Albanese as “a good man” after their fourth phone call, which the prime minister described as “really warm.” The leaders have yet to meet in person, after a planned G7 sit-down was cancelled due to Middle East conflict. While ties remain respectful, tensions persist over tariffs on Australian exports, defence spending, and AUKUS submarine funding. Labor’s recognition of a Palestinian state at the UN prompted “disappointment and disgust” within the Trump administration. A Pentagon review of the submarine deal is underway, with analysts warning Washington may demand Australia boost its contribution to U.S. shipbuilding.

>>23598061 Melbourne neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell sentenced to community work for intimidating police officer - Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell has been sentenced to 200 hours of community service after being found guilty of intimidating a police officer and the officer’s wife. On a podcast, he threatened to “dox” them, declaring “we’ve got it all downloaded, we’ve got it all saved.” Magistrate Michelle Hodgson said “words can be a potent form of intimidation and don’t require an overt threat,” rejecting his argument that the conduct was “lawful activism.” She noted his history of violence showed a disregard for safety. Sewell remains on remand over allegations he stormed Camp Sovereignty during an anti-immigration rally, with the order to be served after release.

>>23598112 Video: Scuffles break out as four competing rallies converge on Melbourne - Thousands of protesters gathered in Melbourne’s CBD for four separate rallies, with scuffles breaking out despite the majority remaining peaceful. Two anti-racism marches, including a “Rally against racism” and a “Sovereignty never ceded” protest, converged with anti-government demonstrations outside parliament. Police deployed 600 officers, using capsicum spray several times and arresting one man for criminal damage. Anti-racism organisers claimed up to 10,000 attended, though police estimated 2500. Speakers denounced neo-Nazis, chanted “Nazi scum off our streets,” while anti-government groups railed against media, vaccines and government, joined by former MP Bernie Finn.

>>23598215 Australia and Papua New Guinea to 'totally integrate' military in defence treaty, minister says - Australia and Papua New Guinea are set to sign a landmark defence treaty that will see their militaries “totally integrated,” allowing joint recruitment, shared bases, and even a pathway to Australian citizenship for Papua New Guineans who serve in the ADF. PNG Defence Minister Billy Joseph said the pact was a “mutual defence treaty” comparable to NATO’s Article Four, committing both nations to defend each other’s sovereignty. Defence Minister Richard Marles called it “a really big strategic step,” while analysts said the deal cements Canberra as PNG’s security partner of choice amid rising regional competition.

>>23603399 Australia to modernise PNG military under ‘hugely significant’ treaty - Australia will spend billions modernising Papua New Guinea’s military under a landmark treaty to be signed during PNG’s 50th independence anniversary. Defence Minister Richard Marles called the pact “hugely significant,” saying it would strengthen defence of Australia’s northern approaches and integrate the nations’ forces. The treaty will replace a 1977 agreement, include provisions for mutual defence consultations, and allow thousands of Papua New Guineans to serve in the ADF with a pathway to citizenship. Analysts said it cements Australia as PNG’s security partner of choice amid Chinese influence, but warned of potential regional entanglements and budget pressures.

>>23603406 Defence pact elevates PNG to treaty level of US and NZ - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says a new defence treaty with Papua New Guinea elevates the relationship to the level of Australia’s pacts with the United States and New Zealand. The agreement, to be signed during PNG’s 50th independence celebrations, will integrate the nations’ forces, enable mutual defence support, and allow Papua New Guineans to serve in the ADF on equal pay with a pathway to citizenship. PNG Defence Minister Billy Joseph described it as a “mutual defence treaty” with “totally integrated forces.” Analysts said the deal signals a strategic win for Australia amid regional competition with China.

#43 - Part 16

Australian Politics and Society - Part 9

>>23603416 ‘Sovereignty threat’ to Australia-PNG defence treaty, critics warn - A landmark defence treaty between Australia and Papua New Guinea is facing criticism from retired PNG military chief Jerry Singirok and opposition leader Douglas Tomuriesa, who warn it could undermine sovereignty and face constitutional challenge. Singirok said the pact risks dragging PNG into a future U.S.-China conflict, arguing “we are a sovereign nation since 1975.” Tomuriesa raised concerns about “constitutional authority, legal protections” and foreign recruitment of PNG citizens into the ADF. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese insisted the treaty “respects the sovereignty of PNG” and provides for mutual defence.

>>23608121 Big tech’s $49.5m deadline: The race to kick under-16s off social media – Social media giants including Meta, Snapchat, TikTok, X and YouTube must remove under-16s from their platforms by December 10 or face fines of up to $49.5 million. The laws, described as among the world’s toughest, require “reasonable steps” such as detecting and deactivating underage accounts, blocking re-registration and offering review mechanisms, but stop short of mandating blanket ID checks. Communications Minister Anika Wells said platforms now “know what their responsibilities are,” while eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant stressed a “layered” and “minimally invasive” approach. Anthony Albanese will promote the laws at the UN, urging other nations to follow Australia’s lead.

>>23613212, >>23613216 ‘You’re hurting Australia’:Donald Trump lashes ABC reporter while confirming Albanese meeting- (Video) Donald Trump confirmed he will meet Anthony Albanese next week while attacking ABC journalist John Lyons, accusing him of “hurting Australia” by asking about his family’s business dealings. Trump told Lyons he would raise the issue with Albanese, then pointed at the reporter and said “quiet.” The exchange, later promoted by the White House “Rapid Response” account on the X social media platform, came as Four Corners investigates Trump’s business links, including a $2bn UAE-backed investment in his World Liberty Financial venture. Albanese said he and Trump have already held four “warm” conversations and will meet in New York during UN leaders’ week, with trade, defence spending and AUKUS on the agenda.

>>23613224 ‘You’re hurting Australia’: Trump threatens ABC journalist in fiery clash – (Video) Donald Trump accused ABC journalist John Lyons of “hurting Australia” by questioning his business dealings, warning he would raise the matter with Anthony Albanese during their upcoming meeting. Trump promoted his family’s role in running his businesses, then pointed at Lyons and said “quiet.” The White House later shared the clip, calling Lyons a “rude foreign Fake News loser,” while Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly branded him a “nasty, anti-Trump activist.” The ABC defended Lyons as a respected journalist working on a Four Corners investigation. The clash came days before Albanese’s US visit, as Trump also filed a $US15bn lawsuit against The New York Times and, in a separate exchange, threatened Jon Karl, chief Washington correspondent for ABC News America, saying Attorney-General Pam Bondi “will probably go after people like you.”

>>23613243 Video: Donald Trump takes aim at ABC journalist as he suggests he'll meet Albanese 'very soon – Donald Trump clashed with ABC Americas editor John Lyons at the White House, accusing him of “hurting Australia” after questions on his business dealings. Trump said he would raise the matter with Anthony Albanese, adding: “Your leader is coming over to see me very soon.” When Lyons pressed further, Trump told him “quiet.” The White House later labelled Lyons a “foreign fake news loser,” while California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office criticised Trump’s remarks as intimidation. Lyons’ questions were part of a Four Corners investigation into Trump’s wealth, which Forbes recently estimated had risen to $US7.3bn.

>>23613281 Opinion: In Donald Trump's America, questions not to the president's liking are met with hostility – "As America enters a dark tunnel of dangerous internal divisions … one of the most dramatic battlegrounds is the US president's war on the media. … We at the ABC had a taste of this new world ourselves this week. On behalf of Four Corners, I asked Trump some questions about how much his wealth had increased since he returned to the White House in January. … Because he is so rarely challenged these days, such questions seem hostile to him. Trump responded with a personal attack — with a hint of menace that there might be reprisals against Australia. In Donald Trump's America, questions not to the liking of the president are met not with answers but hostility." – John Lyons, ABC News Australia

#43 - Part 17

Australian Politics and Society - Part 10

>>23613299 PNG Australia defence treaty on the brink after ministerial no-show - A planned defence treaty between Australia and Papua New Guinea has stalled after PNG’s cabinet failed to achieve a quorum, leaving Anthony Albanese unable to confirm whether it will be signed during his visit. The “Pukpuk Treaty” would commit both nations to “act to meet the common danger” if attacked, placing it on par with Australia’s alliances with the US and New Zealand. Critics in PNG, including former defence chief Jerry Singirok and opposition leader Douglas Tomuriesa, warned it risks undermining sovereignty. The Albanese government maintains the treaty has overwhelming support.

>>23613307 Australia and PNG fail to clinch defence agreement, resorting to communique - Australia and Papua New Guinea have failed to finalise their planned defence treaty, instead signing a communique while PNG’s cabinet continues to deliberate. The “Pukpuk Treaty” would commit both nations to mutual defence, joining the US and New Zealand as Australia’s only formal military allies. Anthony Albanese said the text was agreed and the delay was “perfectly understandable” given PNG’s independence celebrations, while James Marape stressed PNG was “a democracy” and that sovereignty was respected. Marape dismissed suggestions of Chinese obstruction, declaring Australia PNG’s “security partner of choice.” Analysts cautioned the text technically remains negotiable until formal signature.

>>23613325 Video: Albanese faces high-stakes Trump talks after PNG treaty setback - Anthony Albanese has returned from Papua New Guinea without signing the planned “Pukpuk Treaty,” Australia’s first new alliance in 70 years, after PNG’s cabinet failed to reach quorum. The setback, following Vanuatu’s collapse of a security deal, was branded “a serious foreign policy embarrassment” by the opposition. Former PNG defence commander Jerry Singirok accused Canberra of trying to “ambush” PNG, warning of sovereignty risks. Kurt Campbell urged Albanese to use his “momentous” first meeting with Donald Trump to press for US leadership in the Pacific and to “salvage” the Quad — the strategic grouping of Australia, the US, Japan and India — now in doubt after Trump’s tariffs on India. Albanese said the text is agreed and signing could occur within weeks.

>>23613325 COMMENTARY: Albanese faces embarrassment over PNG deal as China prepares to swing in - “Anthony Albanese came to PNG expecting to ink a momentous ANZUS-style treaty … He left, instead, with a flimsy commitment to sign the treaty at an undisclosed date, after PNG’s cabinet failed to endorse the deal… The fact that this is the second such failure in just over a week is highly embarrassing… Marape must get cabinet agreement for the treaty text, which confirms PNG would be required to ‘act to meet the common danger’ if Australia came under attack… There’s only one potential adversary of consequence this could apply to - the People’s Republic of China… China will also swing into action to try to derail the agreement… The blame for this highly damaging failure rests with Albanese.” – Ben Packham, The Australian

>>23613390 Analysis: Albanese was chasing a big announcement. He got a reality check instead - “To misquote Oscar Wilde: to fall short on one Pacific treaty may look like misfortune, but to fall short on two looks like carelessness… Despite the government’s bullish rhetoric, something has clearly gone wrong behind the scenes on planning and communications… The effort has been there, but not the execution… An alliance agreement of this magnitude would usually take years, not months, to reach… Australians dubious about handing billions of dollars to PNG… will not be impressed… These are weighty questions that merit vigorous discussion… Either way, the diplomatic knife fight in the Pacific carries on. As necessary as they are, ambition and effort are no guarantee of triumph.” – Matthew Knott, The Age

>>23617341 ABC barred from Trump’s UK press conference after his clash with Australian journalist John Lyons - The ABC has been blocked from Donald Trump’s press conference near London after its Americas editor, John Lyons, clashed with the US President in Washington over his business dealings. Downing Street told the broadcaster its accreditation was withdrawn for “logistical reasons.” Trump accused Lyons of “hurting Australia” and warned he would raise the matter with Anthony Albanese, before telling him to “quiet.” The Trump administration later branded Lyons a “foreign fake news loser.” Australian politicians and ABC news director Justin Stevens defended Lyons, insisting “his job is to ask questions.”

#43 - Part 18

Australian Politics and Society - Part 11

>>23617395 Brittany Higgins’ last-minute appeal against Linda Reynolds defamation award - Brittany Higgins has lodged an appeal in the WA Supreme Court against the ruling that she defamed former Liberal minister Linda Reynolds, in a bid to overturn $340,000 damages and legal costs potentially reaching $2m. The filing came on the final legal day for appeal and coincided with Higgins accepting service of a bankruptcy notice from Reynolds, whose proceedings sought access to a protective trust linked to Higgins’ $2.4m government compensation payout. The appeal delays bankruptcy action. Reynolds, awarded $315,000 in damages after Justice Tottle found Higgins made “objectively untrue and misleading” statements and defamatory social media posts, is also pursuing damages from Higgins’ husband David Sharaz.

>>23622705 Albanese-Trump meeting looks shaky as PM prepares to depart – Anthony Albanese faces the prospect of returning from the US without a confirmed one-on-one meeting with Donald Trump, a scenario analysts say would be unprecedented and risky for the alliance. At best, the two leaders may only share a brief “pull-aside” during a New York reception, with no expectation of a White House meeting or joint press conference. The uncertainty follows Albanese’s setbacks in Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea, where planned security pacts fell through. Former ambassador Arthur Sinodinos stressed clarity is needed from Trump on the AUKUS submarine pact, currently under Pentagon review. Despite four phone calls, observers warn the relationship feels “thin” and requires urgent strengthening as Trump reshapes US policy in the Pacific.

>>23622838 David Sharaz to pay damages to Linda Reynolds over social media posts – Brittany Higgins’ husband, David Sharaz, has been ordered to pay Linda Reynolds $92,000 in damages plus an estimated $500,000 in legal costs after being found to have defamed the former Liberal minister in a series of social media posts. He is also jointly liable with Higgins for $135,000 already awarded against her, bringing his total liability to $242,471. Justice Paul Tottle ruled Sharaz’s posts carried “intimidatory overtones” and aggravated damages were applied. The judge found allegations of a political “cover-up” had no basis in fact and said Sharaz’s failure to apologise or settle was unreasonable.

>>23630550 ‘Gobsmackingly illogical’: Twiggy lashes Trump on climate as Aussies hit New York – Mining billionaire Andrew “Twiggy” Forrest has savaged Donald Trump’s energy policies as “gobsmackingly illogical”, accusing the president of pandering to oil and gas donors. Arriving in New York for UN leaders’ week alongside Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Forrest attacked US threats of tariffs, visa bans and port levies against countries backing a global net zero shipping framework. He said America should focus on “the lowest cost, highest volume energy” instead of politicising oil and gas. Forrest’s Fortescue is backing a green shipping plan requiring low-carbon fuels, and he has launched a media blitz in New York while preparing to join Climate Week events with global leaders.

>>23631500 Kirk the name on many lips at conservative conference – The assassination of US activist Charlie Kirk loomed large at the opening of CPAC in Brisbane, where Australian conservatives paid tribute to the slain Trump ally. Jacinta Nampijinpa Price led with a roar “for Charlie and for freedom of speech”, while Bridget McKenzie and Matt Canavan also cited his influence. Former prime minister Tony Abbott apologised for his government’s failures, urged the Coalition to abandon net zero, and warned Peter Dutton’s campaign lacked nuclear and tax focus. Price called for lower migration, and CPAC leaders pressed conservatives to unite, even floating cooperation with One Nation to revive the movement’s electoral prospects.

>>23642050 Meeting between Anthony Albanese and Donald Trump unlikely ahead of UN address - The White House has confirmed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will not hold a one-on-one meeting with US President Donald Trump during the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt listed Trump’s meetings with leaders from Ukraine, Argentina, and the European Union, but omitted Australia. Trump will instead greet Albanese briefly at a reception for world leaders before delivering a speech pledging “renewal of American strength” and criticising “globalist institutions”. Leavitt said Trump believes recognition of Palestine by Australia, Canada, and the UK “rewards Hamas” and fails to advance peace.

#43 - Part 19

Australian Politics and Society - Part 12

>>23642102 Trump’s Albanese snub raises questions about Rudd’s clout – US President Donald Trump has omitted Prime Minister Anthony Albanese from his official schedule at the United Nations General Assembly, fuelling concerns over Australia’s standing in Washington and ambassador Kevin Rudd’s influence. Trump’s itinerary includes leaders from Ukraine, Argentina and the EU, but not Australia, after Albanese’s recognition of Palestinian statehood drew White House criticism as a “reward for Hamas.” Former ambassador Arthur Sinodinos said the lack of a meeting “encourages speculation,” while ex-defence official Michael Shoebridge said “Trump is just not that into us.” Critics including Senator Andrew Bragg blamed Rudd’s history of anti-Trump comments for the diplomatic freeze.

>>23642134 Ley writes to Republicans vowing to revoke Palestine recognition ahead of Albanese's UN address – Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has written to 25 US Republicans, assuring them that a future Coalition government would revoke Australia’s recognition of a Palestinian state. The letter, sent as Anthony Albanese prepared to address the United Nations, pledged to “reverse this decision” and restore bipartisan alignment with Washington. Ley told Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar she was “disappointed” by Labor’s break with precedent, as he praised her promise. The move came after Republicans warned of “punitive measures” for nations recognising Palestine. Foreign Minister Penny Wong accused Ley of going “rogue”, while Arthur Sinodinos downplayed any long-term rift in Australia-US relations.

>>23646815 ‘Pathetic’ renewables and open borders: Donald Trump unleashes on UN in blistering address – (Video) Donald Trump used his United Nations General Assembly speech to denounce the UN as weak and “globalist”, mock renewable energy as “a joke”, and call climate change “the greatest con job ever perpetrated on the world”. He said wind turbines were “pathetic” and blamed the green energy agenda for Europe’s decline, defending coal as “clean and beautiful”. Trump accused the UN of funding illegal migration and declared, “Your countries are going to hell.” He condemned nations recognising Palestine, calling it a “reward to Hamas”, and said climate policies “transfer wealth to polluting countries like China”.

>>23648178 ‘Your countries are going to hell’: Trump stuns UN with tirade on immigration, climate ‘con job’ – (Video) Donald Trump delivered a 55-minute UN address railing against “unchecked immigration” and the “greatest con job ever perpetrated” — climate change. He said “illegal aliens are pouring into Europe” and that multiculturalism would be “the death of Western Europe”, urging nations to “protect their communities”. Trump mocked renewables as a “green energy scam”, declared “the carbon footprint is a hoax”, and shamed Europe for buying Russian oil. He condemned nations recognising Palestine, saying it “rewards Hamas”, and ridiculed the UN itself as a symbol of globalist failure. The speech was marred by teleprompter failure and an escalator malfunction, which Trump joked were “the two things I got from the United Nations”.

>>23648197 ‘Good to chat’: Albanese’s Trump meeting is finally secured – (Video) Anthony Albanese has finally secured his first White House meeting with Donald Trump for October 20, after months of speculation over a diplomatic snub. The breakthrough followed a brief exchange at Trump’s UN reception, where the Prime Minister posted a smiling selfie captioned “Good to chat with President Donald Trump.” The meeting relieves pressure on both Albanese and ambassador Kevin Rudd, whose influence had been questioned, but comes after a 270-day delay – unusually long for allies. It also follows Trump’s UN speech attacking climate action and Palestine recognition, exposing deep policy divides with Canberra. Analysts say the meeting remains a win for Albanese, though differences on climate, migration and trade may test relations between the pragmatic Labor leader and the volatile US president.

>>23651530 Video: Albanese’s tilt for a seat on UN Security Council to take years and millions to land – Anthony Albanese has launched Australia’s bid for a 2029-30 seat on the UN Security Council, warning the body risks becoming “a final resting place for good intentions” without reform. The Coalition backed the move, calling it a chance to advocate on wars in Gaza and Ukraine and to counter Chinese and Russian interference. Albanese’s UN speech, which contrasted sharply with Donald Trump’s climate denialism, framed climate change as an “existential threat” to Pacific nations and called for renewed global diplomacy. Analysts said the campaign would take years, cost well over $25 million, and likely centre on Australia’s Pacific partnerships.

#43 - Part 20

Australian Politics and Society - Part 13

>>23651605 Kevin Rudd hugs Donald Trump’s nemesis Gavin Newsom, as Albanese locks in White House date – Anthony Albanese has confirmed his first Oval Office meeting with Donald Trump for October 20 after the pair shared a brief handshake and selfie in New York. The meeting follows months of speculation about ambassador Kevin Rudd’s access to the White House — concerns reignited when Rudd was photographed hugging California Governor Gavin Newsom, Trump’s chief Democratic rival. Rudd and Climate Minister Chris Bowen met Newsom to discuss clean-energy cooperation as Albanese brushed off Trump’s UN tirade against renewables, saying Australia would “seize the opportunities” of climate action. The upcoming meeting is expected to settle questions over AUKUS, tariffs, and defence spending.

>>23651634 ‘We are inspired’: European leaders back Australia’s under-16 social media ban – (Video) European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen has praised Australia’s world-first ban on under-16s using social media as “a bold decision” and pledged to study its impact. Speaking at an event hosted by Anthony Albanese at UN headquarters, von der Leyen said Europe was “inspired by Australia’s example” and that limiting children’s online access was “plain common sense”. Leaders from Greece, Malta, Fiji and Tonga also voiced support. Albanese said the law would ease the “tug-of-war between real life and endless scrolling”. He also said Australia would consider joining postwar peacekeeping missions in Gaza or Ukraine.

>>23651662 Elon Musk’s X says social media ban will violate human rights – Elon Musk’s company X has accused the Albanese government of breaching children’s rights by restricting free speech and access to information, as it seeks a six-month delay to Australia’s under-16 social media ban. In a Senate submission, X said the policy risked “regulatory weaponisation” and violated international treaties such as the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Communications Minister Anika Wells rejected the claims, saying the law protects children from “mental harms” caused by early exposure to social media. Opposition spokesperson Melissa McIntosh called the rollout “chaotic” and confusing.

>>23657234 Video: Ex-FBI chief James Comey criminally charged as Trump targets critics – Former FBI director James Comey has been charged with making false statements and obstructing a congressional investigation, in what critics call a politically motivated prosecution ordered by US President Donald Trump. The charges, which could carry up to five years in prison, mark the first grand jury indictment of a senior Trump adversary. Comey denied wrongdoing, saying, “I’m innocent. So, let’s have a trial.” The case has drawn condemnation from legal experts who warn it breaches the tradition of independence between the presidency and the Justice Department.

>>23665639 Australia may get carve out from pharma tariffs, Health Minister says – Health Minister Mark Butler says it is “not entirely clear” whether Australian blood and plasma exports will be hit by US President Donald Trump’s new 100 per cent tariff on foreign-made pharmaceuticals, suggesting an exemption is likely. Butler noted Trump’s assurance that companies investing in US facilities would be spared and said Australia’s major plasma exporter already operates and is expanding there. He conceded, however, that some medicine exporters could still be affected. The Coalition accused Prime Minister Anthony Albanese of failing to protect Australian jobs, claiming “the relationship in Washington is not strong.” Albanese downplayed the tension, calling his brief encounter with Trump “very warm.”

>>23665687 Search widens: Dezi Freeman called ‘prepper’ whose bush knowledge stretches far from original police hunt zone – Victoria Police have widened their manhunt for alleged police killer Dezi Freeman beyond the Porepunkah area to properties near Rose River, on the edge of Mount Buffalo National Park. Freeman, 56, was described by former acquaintance Thomas Moritz as a “doomsday prepper” with exceptional bush skills. Freeman once lived and worked nearby as a WWOOFer — a volunteer under the World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms scheme, exchanging labour for accommodation and food. He is accused of fatally shooting two police officers and injuring a third during an August 26 raid. Police say Freeman may have killed himself, gone off-grid, or fled with outside help.

#43 - Part 21

Australian Politics and Society - Part 14

>>23665705 Official White House photograph enshrines moment Anthony Albanese first met Donald Trump – An official White House photograph has captured Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s first in-person meeting with US President Donald Trump, both smiling broadly as Mr Trump gives a thumbs-up alongside Jodie Haydon and Melania Trump. The photo was taken three days after the pair met at the UN General Assembly Welcome Reception in New York. Mr Albanese also met UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in London ahead of his upcoming White House visit, following earlier talks with Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.

>>23665727 Anthony Albanese says Aussies are 'concerned' about far right's rise abroad, ahead of Donald Trump meeting – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has cautioned against the global rise of populism and the far right ahead of next month’s meeting with US President Donald Trump, saying governments should “not seek to divide people”. Speaking in London after talks with British PM Keir Starmer, Mr Albanese said Australians were “concerned about elements of the far right rising in various countries”. He called on parties to “come up with solutions” rather than division, reaffirming support for the AUKUS pact and joining other centre-left leaders in pledging solidarity against populist movements.

>>23665752 Video: After meeting Trump, Albanese veers left – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has met former UK Labour leader Tony Blair and joined a major progressive summit in London with leaders including Keir Starmer, Mark Carney, Mette Frederiksen and Pedro Sanchez. The Global Progress Action Summit, featuring Trump critics and senior Democrats, aims to shape a “progressive” response to global challenges such as migration and national security. The visit follows Mr Albanese’s meeting with US President Donald Trump in New York, where he reaffirmed support for climate action, calling global warming an “existential threat” in contrast to Mr Trump’s dismissal of it as a “con job”.

>>23665776 Video: PM lines up royal visit as he meets King Charles in Scotland – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has invited the Prince and Princess of Wales and their three children to visit Australia after a 90-minute meeting with King Charles at Balmoral Castle. Mr Albanese, a declared republican, ruled out holding a referendum on the monarchy, calling Australia’s relationship with the Crown “very respectful”. The King, still receiving cancer treatment, discussed royal visit plans and global issues including AUKUS and Ukraine. Mr Albanese will next address the UK Labour conference in Liverpool before heading to the United Arab Emirates for trade talks, ahead of his White House meeting with President Donald Trump on October 20.

>>23670115 Video: Keir Starmer hails Anthony Albanese as his ally against ‘divisive’ right at conference – British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has hailed Anthony Albanese as an “inspiration to the left” and a “key partner in standing up to the divisive politics of the right” at the UK Labour conference in Liverpool. Mr Albanese, the event’s sole international speaker, told delegates that “the low politics of fear and resentment are easy – but they only divide the country, they don’t advance it.” To a standing ovation, he pledged to work with Sir Keir to “defend democracy itself” and said “unity of labour is the hope of the world.”

>>23670135 COMMENTARY: Too close to Starmer? Why Albanese intervened in UK politics – “At the British Labour conference in Liverpool on Sunday, it was Anthony Albanese being held aloft as an exemplar: a Tory-slaying, centre-left leader from the Antipodes who managed to come from behind to achieve a resounding re-election victory… For Albanese, the inevitability that he would be attacked at home as self-indulgent, hubristic and overly partisan for appearing at such an event was a risk worth taking… Building rapport and trust with fellow world leaders is essential, but there is a line between diplomacy and politicking. Scott Morrison was accused of going too far by appearing with Trump at a campaign-style rally during a 2019 trip to Ohio… [Albanese’s] Liverpool expedition falls in the same contestable category.” – Matthew Knott, The Age

#43 - Part 22

Australian Politics and Society - Part 15

>>23670160 OPINION: Albanese’s Liverpool kiss is up there with Morrison’s MAGA rally – “Anthony Albanese made no attempt to hide the overt political nature of his keynote appearance at the UK Labour Conference… Introduced by his ‘mate’ Keir Starmer as an ‘inspiration to all of us on the left’ and a ‘key partner in standing up to the divisive politics of the right’, the Australian PM issued a full-throated call to arms for the labour movement globally… It was all rather unorthodox, given that… six years ago, he ripped into then-prime minister Scott Morrison for attending a Trump rally in Ohio… [Albanese] contended his Liverpool appearance was different because he was invited by Starmer (the White House had invited Morrison) and that he would be chatting to ministers afterwards. As a fig leaf, while in London, he also met briefly with Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch - but there’s no suggestion he’ll be addressing the next UK Tory conference.” - Phillip Coorey, Australian Financial Review

>>23675023 ‘Standing up unequivocally’: Australian film sector snaps back at Trump tariffs – Arts Minister Tony Burke has vowed to “stand up unequivocally for the rights of the Australian screen industry” after US President Donald Trump renewed his threat of a 100 per cent tariff on all foreign-made films. The proposed measure, aimed at “rejuvenating Hollywood,” has drawn criticism from filmmakers and academics who warn it would damage the global industry. Actor Bryan Brown urged Australians to “get on with our stories,” while analyst Ben Eltham called the move a “TACO - Trump Always Chickens Out - situation.” The policy’s implementation remains unclear, but observers say it could reshape international film production.

>>23680217 Anthony Albanese says security ties with US as strong as ever ahead of Donald Trump meeting – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says Australia’s alliance with the United States is “as strong as it’s ever been” as he prepares for a White House meeting with President Donald Trump on October 20. Speaking to The Australian after his 11-day overseas tour, Mr Albanese said the $368 billion AUKUS submarine deal was progressing despite a Pentagon review. He cited Talisman Sabre 2025 and new defence investments as proof of deepening ties, calling his first in-person meeting with Mr Trump “warm and good”. Mr Albanese said the US “has a critical role to play in global security” and engagement in the Indo-Pacific.

>>23680280 Donald Day Jr, US conspiracy theorist connected to Wieambilla killers, agrees to watered-down plea deal – Arizona-based conspiracy theorist Donald Day Jr, who praised the 2022 Wieambilla police killers, has reached a plea deal to admit possessing firearms as a convicted felon, while prosecutors drop three other charges including threats against US police. Day, known online as “Geronimo’s Bones,” had called Gareth and Stacey Train his “brave brother and sister” after they murdered Queensland officers Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow and neighbour Alan Dare. Court filings list 34 weapons — including rifles, pistols, a revolver, and large quantities of ammunition — stored in a mobile home “gun room.” The plea limits punishment to the low end of sentencing ranges, pending court approval.

>>23684608 Papua New Guinea's cabinet approves 'Pukpuk' defence treaty with Australia – Papua New Guinea’s cabinet has approved the landmark “Pukpuk” defence treaty with Australia, which Prime Minister James Marape says will lift the nations’ security partnership to “its highest level in history.” The treaty — Australia’s first new alliance in more than 70 years — commits both countries to defend each other in the event of a military attack and could see up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans serve with the Australian Defence Force. Anthony Albanese welcomed the approval, calling it a “formal alliance.” Critics, including former PNG defence chief Jerry Singirok, warned it could compromise PNG’s independence and constitutional integrity.

>>23684632 New $5bn helicopters to work with drones on battlefield – Australia’s first two AH-64E Apache attack helicopters have arrived in Townsville under a $5bn deal with the United States for 29 aircraft, despite expert warnings that manned helicopters are increasingly vulnerable to drones and missiles. Defence is also funding a $306m maintenance contract with Boeing Defence Australia, creating 240 jobs, and a $700m RAAF Base upgrade. Deputy PM Richard Marles said the Apaches mark a “critical step change” in Army capability, while Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said they’ll support “littoral manoeuvre and long-range strike.” The Apaches will integrate with drones for reconnaissance and fire support.

#43 - Part 23

Australian Politics and Society - Part 16

>>23692093 James Marape’s cabinet green lights PNG-Australia defence treaty in big win for Albanese – Papua New Guinea’s cabinet has approved the landmark “Pukpuk” defence treaty, paving the way for Prime Minister James Marape and Anthony Albanese to sign the deal in Sydney on Monday. The treaty commits both nations to act if either is attacked and allows up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans to serve with the Australian Defence Force. Marape called it the “highest level in history” of bilateral trust, while Albanese said it would “elevate our relationship to a formal alliance.” China had warned PNG against an “exclusive” deal, and some PNG figures, including retired Major General Jerry Singirok, have raised sovereignty concerns.

>>23692127 10,000 troops and special forces: How the PNG military treaty works – The new Pukpuk treaty between Australia and Papua New Guinea will allow up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans to serve in the Australian Defence Force and create PNG special forces and air force units. The mutual defence pact commits both nations to “act to meet the common danger” if either is attacked and bars security deals with third parties, effectively excluding China. Australia will invest billions to expand PNG’s defence force from 4000 to 7000 personnel and establish a 3000-strong reserve. PNG Prime Minister James Marape said the agreement will ensure his country is “safe, secure, and prepared to protect its people and borders.”

>>23692244 Andrew Hastie quits Sussan Ley’s frontbench – Shadow Home Affairs Minister Andrew Hastie has resigned from Sussan Ley’s frontbench, saying he could no longer remain silent on immigration policy after being sidelined from developing the Coalition’s stance. On Instagram, Hastie said, “The leader has made it clear that the shadow home affairs minister won’t lead the Coalition’s response to immigration matters… I am resigning from the frontbench.” Ley rejected his version, saying Hastie quit after refusing to comply with shadow cabinet solidarity rules. His departure deepens instability for Ley, who faces disunity on net zero and migration and has recently lost Jacinta Nampijinpa Price from her frontbench.

>>23693846 ‘It’s pretty simple’: Hastie says resignation not about leadership push – (Video) Andrew Hastie has denied any plan to challenge Opposition Leader Sussan Ley, saying his resignation from the frontbench was “pretty simple” — he could not lead the Coalition’s immigration policy as shadow home affairs minister. “There’s no challenge to Sussan. I support Sussan,” he told reporters in Perth, adding that he wanted freedom to speak “with conviction and integrity” on key issues. Ley said Hastie quit after refusing to observe shadow cabinet solidarity rules. Senator James Paterson, now acting home affairs spokesperson, called the move “honourable,” while Nationals leader David Littleproud praised Hastie’s “principled stand.”

>>23694411 Police ramp up search for Dezi Freeman near Mount Buffalo as manhunt enters 37th day – Nearly 100 additional officers and cadaver dogs have joined the search for alleged police killer Dezi Freeman in dense bushland near Mount Buffalo, Victoria. Freeman was last seen after the August 26 shootings of Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart and Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson at Porepunkah. Police have sealed off parts of Mount Buffalo National Park amid difficult weather and terrain, following false leads in Goomalibee and Undera. Local businesses continue to suffer from the prolonged operation, with some yet to receive promised state support. Freeman remains at large despite one of Victoria’s largest manhunts.

>>23699103 Libs inch towards net zero deal as Hastie leak stirs discontent – The Coalition is edging toward a compromise on climate policy after Andrew Hastie’s resignation, as leaks revealed Peter Dutton accused him of “going on strike” and poor policy work. Senior Liberals urged unity, with James Paterson saying consensus on a “national interest first” net zero plan was near. The deal would retain a 2050 target but remove it from law and exempt farmers and heavy industry. Nationals leader David Littleproud called for calm, while Nick Minchin confirmed Dutton discussed defence policy in the election review. Ted O’Brien and Scott Morrison backed Sussan Ley’s leadership and urged focus on economic discipline.

#43 - Part 24

Australian Politics and Society - Part 17

>>23699110 Australia and Papua New Guinea sign landmark alliance vowing to defend each other in conflict - (Video) Australia and Papua New Guinea have signed the historic “Pukpuk” defence treaty, agreeing to “act together to meet the common danger” if either faces an armed attack. Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and James Marape signed the pact in Canberra, formally elevating ties to an alliance comparable to ANZUS. Mr Albanese called it “Australia’s first new alliance in more than 70 years”, while Mr Marape said it stemmed from “geography, history and the enduring reality of our shared neighbourhood”. The agreement commits both nations not to undertake activities with third parties that could “compromise” the treaty — a clause seen as limiting Chinese defence involvement. Up to 10,000 Papua New Guineans may eventually serve in the Australian Defence Force.

>>23699118 Video: Neighbours Albanese and Marape build a fence - but not to keep China out – Australia and Papua New Guinea have signed the “Pukpuk” defence treaty, committing to mutual defence and deeper military cooperation. Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and James Marape said the pact strengthens regional stability rather than targeting China. Mr Marape described it as “one bigger fence that secures two houses”, stressing it was based on “geography, history and shared neighbourhood”, not geopolitics. The agreement, Australia’s first formal alliance since ANZUS, prevents either nation from entering deals that would “compromise” the treaty and allows cross-recruitment between their defence forces. Mr Albanese said the pact “lifts our relationship to the next level”, while opposition frontbencher James Paterson welcomed the signing.

>>23703822 Video: Anthony Albanese reveals he received 'lovely' letter from White House ahead of Donald Trump meeting – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says he is “not at all” nervous about his upcoming October 20 meeting with US President Donald Trump, citing a “quite lovely letter” of invitation from the White House. Albanese said his discussions with Trump had been “really warm” and that he expected positive news on AUKUS after a Pentagon review. He also highlighted Australia’s new defence alliance with Papua New Guinea as proof of regional leadership and said the US enjoyed a trade surplus with Australia, calling it “an important economic relationship.”

>>23706846 Linda Reynolds launches bankruptcy bid against David Sharaz – Former senator Linda Reynolds has initiated bankruptcy proceedings against David Sharaz in the Federal Court, seeking to recover hundreds of thousands in damages and legal costs from her successful defamation case. Reynolds confirmed she was forced to apply for substituted service after Sharaz “refused to accept” a bankruptcy notice. The WA Supreme Court last month ordered Sharaz to pay $92,000 in damages plus up to $500,000 in costs. Reynolds said Sharaz and Brittany Higgins had adopted a “strategy of driving up my legal costs.” A bankruptcy ruling could allow her to claim part of Sharaz’s future earnings. Higgins is appealing her own $340,000 defamation loss.

>>23708582 Gaza tensions, Nazis and nefarious foreign actors spark police overhaul – New Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett has warned extremists and foreign states that they are now “on our radar” as she launches a sweeping overhaul to defend democracy from hate-fuelled unrest. Barrett said the Hamas attacks and Israel’s response — labelled genocide by the UN — had driven a surge in ideological crimes and antisemitic threats. Her new national security squads will target Nazi groups, radicals and foreign influence operations linked to Iran. The AFP will also coordinate state prosecutions under new hate-crime laws and expand protection of landmarks and politicians. Barrett said “states are using criminal proxies to destabilise adversaries,” while China remained the main cyber threat.

>>23708623 Video: High Court backs use of encrypted app to monitor crime figures after challenge by bikies – The High Court has upheld laws allowing police to use evidence from the AN0M encrypted app, a key tool in Operation Ironside that exposed major criminal networks. Two South Australian Comanchero gang members challenged the laws, arguing they breached the constitution, but the court ruled unanimously that the provisions “do no more than reflect the law.” The decision clears the way for hundreds of prosecutions based on AN0M material, including 115 in South Australia. The app, secretly developed by the Australian Federal Police and FBI, captured 28 million criminal messages between 2018 and 2021, with police monitoring them in real time.

#43 - Part 25

Australian Politics and Society - Part 18

>>23713306 US Marines bid farewell to ‘unprecedented’ time in Darwin but taking NT toughness with them – About 2,500 US Marines have departed the Northern Territory after what Commander Colonel Jason Armas called an “unprecedented” six-month deployment. Speaking at RAAF Base Darwin, Armas said the rotation included record levels of training with Australian forces, from Talisman Sabre 2025 to joint exercises across the Indo-Pacific. He said the experience strengthened “stability” and “interoperability” while teaching “grit, resilience and toughness.” Marines also completed 3,000 hours of community service. ADF Group Captain Melissa Neilson said the program “epitomises the strong relationship” between Australia and the US and that friendships forged in Darwin will “set us up for success into the future.”

>>23722812 Video: Anthony Scaramucci warns Albanese to ‘co-produce’ meeting with Trump – Former White House communications director Anthony Scaramucci has urged Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to “be very careful” when meeting US President Donald Trump, warning him to “co-produce” the encounter and avoid being “set up” for spectacle. Scaramucci said Albanese should seek advice from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who “deals with him better than any other Western leader.” The financier-turned-political commentator, sacked by Trump after 10 days in 2017, said foreign leaders risk humiliation if unprepared. His comments come ahead of Albanese’s October 20 White House visit, where Trump is expected to push hard on trade and defence priorities.

>>23722890 Defence bans cookbook reprints, focuses on $20bn missile industry – Defence has stopped further print runs of the Taste of Harmony cookbook, created by the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) group, after criticism it distracted from Australia’s $20 billion domestic missile program. Air Marshal Leon Phillips defended the project as part of Defence’s “cultural blueprint,” saying such initiatives help staff “bring their authentic self to work.” He said the $1800 cookbook cost was minor compared to progress on missile manufacturing, citing contracts with Kongsberg and Lockheed Martin. Phillips confirmed the cookbook would not return, adding the focus is now on expanding production of naval and ground-based weapons systems.

>>23722906 4chan unlikely to face under-16s social media ban, says eSafety chief – eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant has indicated 4chan will not be blocked under Australia’s upcoming ban on social media use by under-16s, despite calling it “one of the darker sites on the web.” In Senate estimates, Inman Grant said the 10 December ban would focus on “mainstream” platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, X and Snapchat. She said 4chan would instead face regulation under new codes covering violent and adult content, requiring age assurance and carrying fines of up to $49.5 million. The commissioner confirmed some major platforms had accepted her classification, while others were resisting.

>>23722976 David Sharaz served bankruptcy papers by Linda Reynolds after defamation win – Former senator Linda Reynolds has served bankruptcy papers on Brittany Higgins’s husband, David Sharaz, as she seeks to recover damages from a Perth defamation case. Mr Sharaz, who did not defend the action, was ordered to pay $85,000 and is jointly liable with Ms Higgins for more than $1 million in legal costs. Ms Reynolds said Mr Sharaz had “agreed to accept service” after forcing her to incur further costs applying for substituted service orders. He now has 21 days to pay or face formal bankruptcy proceedings. The defamation case followed social media posts Ms Reynolds said had “trashed her reputation” and caused severe distress.

>>23735915 Australia, US progress missile deal ahead of Albanese’s meeting with Trump – Australia and the United States have advanced a joint missile production partnership, with guided weapons expected to be manufactured in Australia by year’s end under a new agreement with the US Department of War and Lockheed Martin. Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said the deal, signed in Washington, would allow co-production of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) and precision strike missiles for export through a “US-led global supply chain.” The move comes ahead of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s first formal meeting with President Donald Trump, where the AUKUS submarine pact will be central. Conroy said the project demonstrated the strength of the alliance and mutual security priorities.

#43 - Part 26

Australian Politics and Society - Part 19

>>23735938 Video: Government launches $14m ad blitz ahead of under-16s social media ban – The federal government has unveiled a $14 million advertising campaign ahead of the December 10 law banning children under 16 from social media platforms. The ad, airing Sunday, shows teens glued to their phones as a voiceover says the new rules are “for the good of the kids.” Communications Minister Anika Wells said the measure would bring “significant and meaningful difference” and promote cultural change, noting seven in ten teens have seen harmful content online. Platforms including TikTok, X and Facebook must verify users’ ages or face fines up to $49.5 million. Wells said she was confident tech giants “understand their obligations under Australian law.”

>>23735954 Dezi Freeman still at large as Mount Buffalo National Park reopens – Mount Buffalo National Park has reopened nearly two months after closing for the massive police manhunt to capture fugitive Dezi Freeman, wanted over the alleged murders of two police officers. Victoria Police said some areas would remain restricted and patrols would continue as the investigation remains active. More than 800 people have been interviewed, hundreds of properties searched, and 1600 intelligence reports reviewed. Chief Commissioner Mike Bush said detectives were considering “three likely scenarios” — that Freeman is dead, alive in the area, or being sheltered elsewhere. A $1 million reward remains for information leading to his capture.

>>23735963 Linda Reynolds launches bankruptcy action on Brittany Higgins – Former senator Linda Reynolds has filed Federal Court proceedings to bankrupt Brittany Higgins, after the ex-staffer failed to comply with a creditor’s notice over more than $1 million owed in defamation damages and legal costs. Justice Paul Tottle previously found Ms Higgins defamed Ms Reynolds in social media posts, awarding $340,000 in damages plus about $1.5 million in costs. The move follows similar bankruptcy action against Ms Higgins’s husband, David Sharaz. Higgins, who received a $2.4 million Commonwealth payout in 2022, has since spent most of it on legal fees, taxes and living expenses. Bankruptcy could allow Reynolds to claim part of the couple’s future earnings.

>>23742278 High Court backs Tony Burke in Candace Owens visa dispute – The High Court of Australia has upheld Immigration Minister Tony Burke’s decision to deny a visa to US commentator Candace Owens, ruling unanimously that Section 501 of the Migration Act does not breach the Constitution’s implied freedom of political communication. Owens had claimed the refusal was biased and infringed free speech, but the court found Burke acted within his powers to block entry on the grounds her views could “incite discord.” The minister cited her history of inflammatory comments, including claims that Muslims “started slavery” and remarks appearing to downplay the Holocaust. Burke said Owens’ rhetoric risked inflaming racial and religious tensions. The decision reaffirms ministerial discretion to bar foreigners who threaten social cohesion.

>>23742293 Australia to stare down Trump’s threats over new global carbon tax – Australia is set to back a global carbon pricing scheme for international shipping despite threats from the Trump administration to sanction nations supporting the plan. The International Maritime Organisation will vote Thursday on the “net zero framework,” a cap-and-trade system aimed at cutting shipping emissions. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned of tariffs, visa bans and port levies on allies that back what Washington calls a “European-led neocolonial export of global climate regulations.” Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s government, seeking to maintain credibility on clean-energy policy before next week’s Trump meeting, is expected to press ahead alongside Japan, China and the EU. The move risks escalating tensions ahead of the AUKUS and trade discussions.

>>23742320 Video: Treasurer lays groundwork for ‘golden’ US minerals deal – Treasurer Jim Chalmers has hailed a potential Australia–US critical minerals agreement as a “golden opportunity” ahead of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s meeting with President Donald Trump. Speaking in Washington, Chalmers said the deal could secure tariff relief for Australian exports, which currently face a 10 per cent US duty, and boost joint supply chains amid China’s mineral restrictions. He met senior US officials, including National Economic Council chair Kevin Hassett, to advance the plan, stressing that “Australia’s interests are best served by more trade, not more trade barriers.” The talks also covered AUKUS, with Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy reporting strong bipartisan support in Washington for the pact’s continuation.

#43 - Part 27

Australian Politics and Society - Part 20

>>23742340 Australian miners would link with Department of War in Albanese–Trump deal – Australia and the United States are preparing a critical minerals agreement under which the US Department of War would directly invest in Australian rare earth projects to secure materials for fighter jets and green technologies. The deal, expected to be unveiled during Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s October 20 meeting with President Donald Trump, follows Trump’s $US100 billion funding law for minerals supply diversification. Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said the long-awaited AUKUS review could be “imminent,” while Treasurer Jim Chalmers emphasised Australia’s role in balancing trade ties with China and the US. Beijing, defending its export curbs, denied weaponising minerals. Albanese will depart for Washington on Sunday.

>>23742443 Barnaby Joyce won’t run for New England, mulls One Nation move after talks with Pauline Hanson – Former Nationals leader Barnaby Joyce has announced he will not recontest his New England seat, citing a relationship with party leadership that has “irreparably broken down”. Pauline Hanson, who opened a new One Nation branch in Tamworth, invited him to “come across to One Nation”, saying he was “more aligned” with her party than the Nationals. Mr Joyce, recently treated for prostate cancer, said net zero policies had “hurt” his electorate and made remaining in the Nationals “untenable”. He is now weighing his political future after discussions with Senator Hanson amid ongoing Coalition fractures.

>>23742454 PNG troops face going hungry amid unpaid catering bill, in challenge for Pukpuk ally Australia – Papua New Guinea’s Defence Force faces a shutdown in food services for its 3500 troops after failing to pay a $6.2m catering bill dating back to March, underscoring the fragility of its military under the new Pukpuk (Crocodile) Treaty with Australia. Contractor iPi Catering has warned it will halt operations, while NKW Holdings — previously accused of inflating Manus Island invoices — assumes part of the contract. PNG Defence Minister Billy Joseph and Australian counterpart Richard Marles declined comment. Analysts warn PNG’s Defence Force is in a “woeful state,” battling debt, disrepair, and missing weapons, posing a challenge for Australia’s regional security commitments.

>>23742478 Ex-Trump national security adviser Bolton charged over handling of classified material – Former US national security adviser John Bolton has been charged with 18 counts under the Espionage Act for allegedly retaining and sharing top-secret records, including diary-like notes about his time in government. Prosecutors say Bolton shared over 1000 pages of classified information with relatives and failed to disclose that Iranian-linked hackers accessed his emails. He denies wrongdoing, calling the case an “intensive effort” by Donald Trump to “intimidate his opponents.” The charges carry potential sentences of up to 10 years per count and follow similar indictments against other Trump critics, deepening concern over politicisation of the Justice Department.

>>23745272 Anthony Albanese has fingers crossed for ‘constructive’ meeting with Donald Trump – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will meet US President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday for talks focused on the $368bn AUKUS deal and expanding US investment in Australia’s critical minerals sector. Albanese said he was “looking forward to a positive and constructive meeting” and called it an opportunity to “consolidate and strengthen” the alliance. The visit comes amid calls from Washington for higher Australian defence spending and concerns about China’s dominance in rare earth supply chains. Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said Australia’s 2.8 per cent defence spend was already higher than most Indo-Pacific allies. Albanese’s short Washington trip precedes visits to Malaysia, South Korea and Japan for upcoming ASEAN and APEC summits.

>>23745283 The key card Albanese can play to keep Trump on side in Oval Office – Anthony Albanese enters his White House meeting with Donald Trump determined to avoid the “Zelensky moment” or humiliation of other leaders. With AUKUS under review, he carries a package of critical minerals, defence spending and superannuation investment to win over Trump’s transactional instincts. Former ambassador Kim Beazley said Australia must “practise statecraft” and present its resources as strategic assets. Analysts warn Trump “abhors weakness” but respects firmness, making confidence essential. AUKUS’s value as a bulwark against China and its support for US submarine production form the backbone of Albanese’s pitch, while Canberra stresses shared economic, security and industrial benefits.

#43 - Part 28

Australian Politics and Society - Part 21

>>23745354 ‘Melbourne has had a gutful’: Two officers hospitalised, flags burnt and missiles thrown at police as opposing protesters converge in CBD – (Video) Violent clashes erupted in Melbourne’s CBD as anti-immigration and counter-protest groups hurled rocks, bottles and debris at police, leaving two officers hospitalised. Commander Wayne Cheesman condemned the violence, saying “Melbourne has had a gutful” and that the attacks “could kill someone.” Police accused left-wing counter-protesters of fuelling unrest, while organisers claimed officers used excessive force. Premier Jacinta Allan and Opposition Leader Brad Battin condemned the violence, calling for accountability. The far-right March for Australia rally, linked to neo-Nazi figures, drew around 1000 participants, as counter-protesters chanted “no Nazis ever again.” Police used flash bangs and rubber bullets to separate the groups in what Cheesman called “a bad day for Melbourne.”

>>23745404 Video: Police hospitalised, pepper spray used in violent Melbourne protests – Two police officers have been hospitalised and several injured after violent clashes between anti-immigration demonstrators and left-wing “anti-racism” activists in Melbourne’s CBD. Police deployed pepper spray, tear gas and rubber bullets to regain control as officers were pelted with rocks, glass and burning debris. Commander Wayne Cheesman said “Melbourne has had a gutful,” accusing “issue-motivated groups on the left” of trying to attack police, while Premier Jacinta Allan condemned the violence, vowing offenders would face “serious consequences.” Hundreds of officers were deployed as fights broke out near Spring Street and Exhibition Street. The clashes marked the second major confrontation involving March for Australia this year. Similar rallies occurred in other capitals but Melbourne saw the worst unrest.

>>23748303 Video: Victoria to ban masks and chaining at protests as Jacinta Allan insists Melbourne CBD is safe – Victoria will introduce new laws banning protesters from wearing masks or chaining themselves to structures, with Premier Jacinta Allan saying such tactics are being used to conceal identities and endanger others. The crackdown follows violent clashes in Melbourne’s CBD that left two police officers hospitalised. Ms Allan said the legislation would expand police powers while protecting the right to peaceful protest. Opposition Leader Brad Battin accused the government of ignoring public safety, while Ms Allan insisted Melbourne “remains safe,” blaming a “small number” of agitators for recent unrest. The laws are expected to be introduced to parliament within weeks.

>>23748324 Google starts legal fight to overturn social media ban for under-16s – Google is preparing to challenge the Albanese government’s under-16 social media ban, arguing YouTube should not be classified as a social platform and that the law breaches Australia’s implied right to political freedom. The ban, effective December 10, will block access for under-16s to YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, Threads and X. Google has hired senior barristers and may be joined by other tech firms in the case. Communications Minister Anika Wells warned platforms of hefty fines for non-compliance, while the issue is expected to surface during Anthony Albanese’s meeting with US President Donald Trump. Google has declined to comment publicly.

>>23748356 Video: Anthony Albanese lands in Washington DC for White House face-to-face with Donald Trump – Anthony Albanese has arrived in Washington ahead of his first in-person meeting with Donald Trump, as the White House praised their “great relationship.” The two leaders will meet in the Oval Office on Tuesday (AEDT) to discuss AUKUS, defence ties, trade and critical minerals. Albanese said the visit would “create benefits for Australians back home.” Kevin Rudd will join the delegation, with White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly confirming the talks will focus on strengthening defence and economic co-operation. Albanese will also meet the Friends of Australia Caucus, a bipartisan group of US legislators that promotes the alliance and supports closer economic and security collaboration, before hosting a BHP 140th anniversary lunch at the Australian embassy.

>>23751998 Donald J. Trump Truth – (Video) President Trump Welcomes Australian Prime Minister to the White House - https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/posts/115408070700605463

>>23752000 Margo Martin, Special Assistant to the President Tweet: (Video) President @realDonaldTrump welcomes the Prime Minister of Australia to the White House - https://x.com/MargoMartin47/status/1980293950113202259

>>23752005 The White House Tweet - President Donald J. Trump and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. - https://x.com/WhiteHouse/status/1980325056015397187

#43 - Part 29

Australian Politics and Society - Part 22

>>23752011 Video: President Trump welcomes the Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, to the White House. - The White House, Oct 21, 2025

>>23752017 Video: President Trump Greets the Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Australia - The White House, Oct 21, 2025

>>23752034 Video: FULL MEETING - President Trump Participates in a Bilateral Lunch with the Prime Minister of Australia - The White House, Oct 21, 2025

>>23752081 Trump praises Australia and takes swipe at Rudd during White House meeting with Albanese – (Video) Donald Trump has hailed Australia as “a fantastic place” and Anthony Albanese as “highly respected” during their first White House meeting, while delivering a blunt rebuke to ambassador Kevin Rudd, telling him, “I don’t like you either, and I probably never will.” The summit produced an $8.5 billion minerals deal aimed at countering China’s dominance and a renewed US commitment to AUKUS, with Trump confirming Australia would receive its Virginia-class submarines. US Navy Secretary John Phelan said the pact would be “improved for all three parties.” Albanese also invited Trump to visit Australia, an offer the president said he would “give serious consideration.”

>>23752098 Video: Trump tells Rudd ‘I don’t like you’, reportedly offers forgiveness off-camera – Donald Trump publicly told Australia’s ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, “I don’t like you, and I probably never will” during a White House meeting with Anthony Albanese. The remark came as journalists watched, prompting laughter from the Australian delegation but calls from the opposition for Rudd’s resignation. After the meeting, Rudd apologised again and Trump reportedly accepted. The exchange followed resurfaced comments Rudd had made years earlier calling Trump “destructive” and a “traitor to the West.” Penny Wong said the exchange was “tongue in cheek,” crediting Rudd’s role in securing AUKUS and the minerals deal, while opposition leader Sussan Ley said it showed the ambassador’s position was “untenable.”

>>23752128 Video: Kevin Rudd apologises to Donald Trump for ‘most destructive president’ post – Donald Trump has accepted an apology from Kevin Rudd after the Australian ambassador withdrew past comments calling him “the most destructive president” and “a traitor to the West.” During Anthony Albanese’s White House meeting, Trump joked that Rudd might “like to apologise,” then told him, “I don’t like you either. And I probably never will,” prompting laughter from both delegations. Rudd later apologised privately, and Trump said all was forgiven. Former ambassador Dennis Richardson praised Rudd’s work on the $8.5bn critical minerals deal and AUKUS, while Penny Wong called Trump’s remark “tongue-in-cheek.” Opposition leader Sussan Ley argued Rudd’s position was “untenable,” though Arthur Sinodinos said his dismissal was unlikely.

>>23752188 Video: Kevin Rudd set to remain in Washington for long haul despite Trump spat – Kevin Rudd is expected to remain as Australia’s ambassador to Washington until at least March 2027, despite Donald Trump telling him “I don’t like you either, and probably never will” during Anthony Albanese’s White House meeting. The Albanese government dismissed opposition calls for Rudd’s dismissal, saying the exchange was humorous and “all’s forgiven”. Defence Minister Richard Marles praised Rudd’s “fantastic job” securing the $8.5 billion critical minerals deal and strengthening AUKUS ties. Foreign Minister Penny Wong and former ambassadors Dennis Richardson, Kim Beazley and Arthur Sinodinos all backed Rudd’s performance. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and trade spokesman Kevin Hogan said his position was “untenable”, arguing the ambassador’s past comments about Trump undermined relations. Albanese remains firm in his support, with Rudd “in Washington for the long haul.”

>>23755139 Albanese channels Trump’s ‘Art of the Deal’ and ticks off list of agreements – Anthony Albanese has adopted Donald Trump’s transactional style, finalising a suite of deals at the White House across critical minerals, defence, and technology. A US–Australia critical minerals framework will see each nation invest US$1 billion in projects countering China’s control of rare earths, with early funding for Alcoa’s gallium refinery in Western Australia and the Arafura mine in the Northern Territory. Defence ties were reinforced through AUKUS, Apache helicopters, and Ghost Shark undersea drones. A new “Technology Prosperity Deal” expands cooperation in AI, quantum, and space industries, while the US hailed an expected $1.4 trillion inflow from Australian superannuation funds by 2035 as a “historic” investment in the American economy.

#43 - Part 30

Australian Politics and Society - Part 23

>>23755149 From flowers to golf, no missteps in Albanese’s visit – Anthony Albanese’s visit to Washington unfolded as a diplomatic success, marked by warmth and smooth protocol. Donald Trump hosted the Prime Minister at Blair House, the official U.S. presidential guest residence situated opposite the White House, traditionally reserved for visiting heads of state. The gesture, accompanied by flowers from Trump and Melania, signalled goodwill before the two leaders met in the Cabinet Room alongside JD Vance, Marco Rubio and Pete Hegseth. Albanese’s team included Kevin Rudd, who drew laughter after a brief, humorous exchange with Trump over past remarks. Over a three-course lunch of roast chicken and pavlova, Trump expressed interest in becoming the first US President to visit Australia since Barack Obama, hinting at attending the 2028 Presidents Cup in Melbourne. Later, Albanese met Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and dined with Rubio.

>>23755163 Analysis: Inside Albanese’s extremely successful Trump meeting (where I was called a nasty guy) – "There is no way to describe Anthony Albanese’s first proper meeting with Donald Trump as anything other than a raging success. With one glaring exception, Albanese achieved everything he came to Washington to do: he inked a landmark critical minerals deal, secured the US president’s emphatic support for the AUKUS defence pact, and shared an apparently genuine camaraderie with Trump – who called Australia 'an amazing ally'. 'There’s never been any games,' Trump enthused. 'There are some games with other countries, but there haven’t been games with Australia.' Even the awkward exchange with Kevin Rudd – when Trump said, 'I don’t like you either, and I probably never will' – seemed to clear the air. And Rudd wasn’t the only one to cop it. Trump called this reporter a 'nasty guy' when I tried to ask a second question, while he told another Australian journalist, The Nightly’s Latika Bourke, that she didn’t know anything about the Russia-Ukraine war, and then told her to be 'quiet'. Escaping the White House unscathed is a tough task. But Albanese has done it, even if others have a few scars." – Michael Koziol, The Age

>>23755187 The White House Tweet: - (Video) "It's great to have the Prime Minister of Australia, a lot of friends over there… we work together very much on rare earths, critical minerals, and lots of other things." - President Donald J. Trump - https://x.com/WhiteHouse/status/1980645712099528908

>>23755200 OPINION: I’ve sat with Trump in the Oval Office, and I give Albanese a 10/10 – "Anthony Albanese and his team, including ambassador Kevin Rudd, should be very pleased with their meeting with President Donald Trump. They achieved the main objective, which was to get in and out without mishap. Trump lavished the prime minister with praise and Albanese lavished back without appearing sycophantic. It was definitely a 10/10 in diplomatic and political terms. The agreement on rare earths development and processing is a very good step forward … but it is easier to announce deals in the White House than it is to actually make them happen. So there is much work to do. Of course, Trump loves AUKUS — he is hyper-transactional and loves a good deal. Bullshit and backslapping are fine, but delivering the goods is what matters. So far, so good." – Malcolm Turnbull, The Age

>>23755204 Video: Kevin Rudd should not be sacked after Donald Trump’s rebuke, Malcolm Turnbull insists – Malcolm Turnbull has defended Kevin Rudd’s role as Australia’s ambassador to the US, dismissing Coalition calls for his removal after Donald Trump told him, “I don’t like you, and I probably never will.” Turnbull described the exchange as “tongue-in-cheek” and said sacking Rudd would project weakness, praising Anthony Albanese’s “10 out of 10” White House performance for balancing warmth and dignity. He said Trump’s comments on China showed the US president “is not a warmonger” and wants peace, but warned that “warm words don’t build submarines,” noting America’s production shortfalls still jeopardise Australia’s AUKUS timeline. Turnbull said the meeting’s outcomes hadn’t changed the practical challenges facing the submarine deal, which requires US output to more than double before Australia can receive any vessels.

#43 - Part 31

Australian Politics and Society - Part 24

>>23755216 Video: Anthony Albanese defends Kevin Rudd after criticism from Donald Trump – Anthony Albanese has reaffirmed his support for Kevin Rudd, calling him a “fantastic” ambassador after Donald Trump told Rudd, “I don’t like you either, and I probably never will.” The prime minister said the exchange ended with Mr Trump’s words, “all is forgiven,” and praised Rudd’s work in Washington, noting “every single person on The Hill” had endorsed him. Speaking at a Friends of Australia breakfast, Albanese thanked Rudd for “working his guts out” on AUKUS and US relations. Veteran Republican Michael McCaul also backed Rudd, saying he had been “there every step of the way” on the submarine pact. Albanese hailed the trip’s success, including an $8.5 billion critical minerals partnership and renewed AUKUS commitments aimed at a “more secure and peaceful Indo-Pacific region.”

>>23755221 ‘Kevin works his guts out’: PM endorses Rudd’s contributions – (Video) Anthony Albanese has confirmed Kevin Rudd will remain Australia’s ambassador to Washington through the 2026 US midterms, praising him as an “outstanding” and “extraordinarily hard-working” representative. At a Friends of Australia caucus and a BHP anniversary event, Albanese said Rudd “works his guts out” and credited him for the visit’s success. Senior sources said Rudd helped secure Julian Assange’s release, progress AUKUS legislation and deliver the $8.5 billion critical minerals deal with the Trump administration. Republican co-chair Michael McCaul said “Kevin was there every step of the way” on AUKUS, while joking about his exchange with Mr Trump. Albanese described his own rapport with the US president as “warm” and “constructive”, reflecting the alliance’s strength.

>>23755234 ‘I’m alive’: Rudd bounces back from Trump spray – After Donald Trump’s public rebuke in the White House Cabinet Room, Kevin Rudd quickly reasserted his diplomatic footing on day two of Anthony Albanese’s Washington visit. At a Friends of Australia breakfast at Blair House — attended by bipartisan US lawmakers including Michael McCaul and Tim Kaine — Rudd joked “I’m alive” and received applause for his role advancing AUKUS and critical minerals cooperation. McCaul praised that “Kevin was there every step of the way.” Later, at BHP’s 140th anniversary embassy lunch, Rudd earned plaudits from Albanese and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum for his tireless advocacy and bipartisan outreach. Albanese called him “an outstanding Australian representative” whose “hard work” underpinned the visit’s success.

>>23759587 Brittany Higgins abandons Linda Reynolds defamation appeal – Brittany Higgins has withdrawn her appeal against a judgment that she defamed former Liberal minister Linda Reynolds, leaving in place a $340,000 damages order and legal costs that could exceed $2 million. The decision ends her bid to delay bankruptcy proceedings launched by Ms Reynolds, who is seeking access to Ms Higgins’ compensation trust. Justice Paul Tottle found Ms Higgins made “objectively untrue and misleading” statements about a political cover-up of her alleged rape and ordered her to pay 80 per cent of Ms Reynolds’ legal costs. Ms Higgins’ partner, David Sharaz, has also been pursued for bankruptcy after separate damages and cost orders in Ms Reynolds’ favour.

>>23759596 Forced adoption redress scheme to offer compensation for impacted Tasmanians – Tasmania will establish a redress scheme for women subjected to historical forced adoptions, becoming the second jurisdiction after Victoria to do so. Premier Jeremy Rockliff apologised for the “significant pain and suffering” caused by the practice, promising compensation and counselling support to affected mothers. Survivors, including 75-year-old Robyn Cohen, welcomed the move but warned consultation delays could see victims die before receiving justice. Lawyer Angela Sdrinis said the government must “move very swiftly” and that Victoria’s $30,000 payment was “woefully inadequate.” The scheme, limited to mothers, is expected to begin next year with transitional payments available sooner.

#43 - Part 32

Australian Politics and Society - Part 25

>>23759609 Video: US conspiracy theorist linked to Wieambilla shootings pleads guilty to watered-down charge – Arizona-based conspiracy theorist Donald Day Jr, known online as “Geronimo’s Bones”, has pleaded guilty to unlawfully possessing firearms and ammunition after police found nine high-powered weapons, hundreds of rounds, and a sniper hide at his rural property. The plea deal dropped charges of threatening FBI agents and public figures. Prosecutors said Day had exchanged messages with Queensland extremists Gareth, Stacey, and Nathaniel Train, who murdered police constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow, and neighbour Alan Dare during the 2022 Wieambilla ambush. Despite a violent criminal history banning him from owning firearms, Day admitted using and teaching others to use them. He has served two years in custody and faces up to 15 years in prison, though prosecutors have agreed to recommend a sentence at the lower end of the scale.

>>23763863 Video: Servicewomen launch legal action against Defence Force over sexual assault, discrimination – Australian servicewomen have launched a landmark class action against the Commonwealth, alleging decades of systemic sexual violence, rape, harassment and discrimination within the Australian Defence Force. Filed in the Federal Court by law firm JGA Saddler, the suit could involve up to 20,000 women. Lawyer Josh Aylward said many faced retaliation for reporting assaults. Former RAAF member “Gemma” said she was forced to keep working alongside her alleged attacker, leaving her with severe trauma and suicidal thoughts. The 2024 Defence Suicides Royal Commission found 800 sexual assault allegations in five years. Defence said it was developing a new sexual misconduct prevention strategy under Respect@Work reforms.

>>23763913 Video: Police Taskforce Summit to take over ongoing search for fugitive Dezi Freeman – Victoria Police has launched Taskforce Summit to lead the ongoing hunt for fugitive Dezi Freeman, accused of murdering two police officers in Porepunkah, 300km northeast of Melbourne, on August 26. The taskforce, led by a detective inspector from the State Anti-Gangs Division, includes detectives from Crime Command, the Fugitive Squad, Armed Crime Squad, VIPER Taskforce, Special Operations Group and Search and Rescue. Mount Buffalo National Park, long central to the search, has now fully reopened after extensive but fruitless sweeps. Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien urged public assistance, saying the $1 million reward for Freeman’s arrest remains in place. Police believe a tip-off will ultimately end the manhunt.

>>23771419 Anthony Albanese heads to Malaysia and South Korea for major summits – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has departed for Malaysia and South Korea to attend high-level summits with dozens of world leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Calling the meetings “a critical time” for the Indo-Pacific, he said one in four Australian jobs rely on trade and that he would prioritise expanding economic and security partnerships. The ASEAN and APEC gatherings will centre on regional stability, trade growth, and global cooperation, with the Xi–Trump meeting expected to address China’s stated aim to “reunify” Taiwan by 2027. Mr Albanese said stronger global collaboration “reduces trade barriers” and “enlivens competition.”

>>23771442 Eddie McGuire urges Melbourne to follow Los Angeles’ path on safety revival – Eddie McGuire says Melbourne should consider a Los Angeles-style crackdown on crime to revive its struggling city centre, warning that safety fears and constant protests are deterring workers and visitors. “If you make it safer to get there… and you don’t feel like you’re going to get robbed on the train,” he said, “it makes a huge difference.” McGuire praised LA’s recent policing boost as a model for Melbourne, where weekday CBD activity has stalled at 52 per cent of pre-pandemic levels. He cautioned against blanket protest bans but said weekly stand-offs were “too much.” The Allan government has introduced bail reforms and bans on machetes amid rising crime.

>>23771455 ‘I don’t forget’: Trump casts doubt on Rudd forgiveness – (Video) US President Donald Trump has suggested he has not forgiven Australian ambassador Kevin Rudd, saying he “doesn’t forget” past criticism in which Rudd labelled him “a traitor to the West” and “the most destructive president in history.” During Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s meeting at the White House, Trump told Rudd, “I don’t like you either. And I probably never will,” though later said Rudd “seemed like a good guy.” Speaking before leaving for Asia, Trump said he would soon appoint a new US ambassador to Australia, one Albanese “will like.”

#43 - Part 33

Australian Politics and Society - Part 26

>>23771466 Video: Ambassador Kevin Rudd denies tense exchanges with Trump officials as US President says he ‘doesn’t forget’ critics – Kevin Rudd has denied reports of “testy” meetings with senior Trump officials, after US President Donald Trump said he “doesn’t forget” people who criticise him. Sources claimed Rudd clashed with Trump aides Stephen Miller and Elbridge Colby, but the ambassador called such claims “completely false.” Government sources noted Rudd hosted US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Senator Marco Rubio after the White House meeting, showing “ongoing goodwill.” During that meeting, Trump told Rudd, “I don’t like you and probably never will.” Despite tensions, the summit delivered major outcomes, including an $8.5 billion critical minerals deal and reaffirmed US commitment to AUKUS.

>>23780195 Meta, TikTok and Snap say they oppose Australia's youth social media ban but will comply with it – Meta, TikTok and Snap told parliament they will follow Australia’s new ban on users under 16, despite believing it will not protect young people. The law, taking effect December 10, requires platforms to block under-16 users or face fines of up to A$49.5 million. Meta’s Mia Garlick said 450,000 underage accounts would be contacted to delete or store their data, while TikTok and Snap said they would deactivate accounts flagged by behavioural tracking. “We don’t agree, but we accept and will abide by the law,” Snap executive Jennifer Stout said. TikTok’s Ella Woods-Joyce added, “We are on track to meet our compliance.”

>>23784992 Video: Dozens arrested in Operation Ironside sting across South Australia – Police have arrested 55 people and laid more than 800 charges in a new phase of Operation Ironside, targeting organised crime linked to the encrypted AN0M app. Deputy Police Commissioner Linda Williams called the coordinated raids “a significant blow” to criminal syndicates, with $25.8m in assets seized across 23 properties. Those arrested face drug trafficking, manufacturing, and money-laundering charges. Authorities allege the offenders include a Comanchero gang member and associates of other groups. Nearly 2.5m intercepted AN0M messages informed the operation, which followed a High Court ruling upholding the app’s use in prosecutions. Since 2021, 164 people have been arrested in South Australia under Ironside, with further arrests expected. “We will create a hostile environment for you to operate in,” Williams said.

>>23788837 ‘Blurred lines’ between state actors, organised crime, AFP Commissioner Krissy Barrett warns – (Video) Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett has cautioned that the distinction between “state-sponsored” operations and organised crime is eroding, forcing law enforcement to rethink its counter-interference strategy. Citing recent Mossad claims that an Iranian Quds Force commander directed anti-Semitic attacks in Australia, Barrett said foreign powers were increasingly using underworld figures to mask their activities. She praised the AFP–ASIO task force targeting foreign interference, saying it was “very busy,” though much of its work remained classified. Barrett also endorsed Labor’s bill to list Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation and urged parents to remain vigilant despite the upcoming social-media ban for under-16s. “Radicalisation or exploitation … can happen so quickly,” she warned.

>>23788854 Video: Critical praise and a presidential pat: Anthony Albanese basks as Donald Trump talks up $13bn deal – Donald Trump publicly praised Anthony Albanese for doing a “fantastic job” on the $13bn critical minerals agreement between the US and Australia, describing their previous meeting as “great.” At a dinner in South Korea ahead of the APEC summit, Mr Trump patted Mr Albanese’s arm and said, “We’re working together on rare earths, but we’re working on a lot of things together.” The US President also announced a deal with South Korea and voiced optimism about talks with Xi Jinping. OECD chief Mathias Cormann called the minerals partnership “very important and positive,” saying it would strengthen supply chains vital to AI, defence, and energy transition.

#43 - Part 34

Australian Politics and Society - Part 27

>>23796903 You gain from Kyiv’s pain: envoy blasts Australia’s profit from Ukraine war – Ukraine’s ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko has accused Australia of profiting from Russia’s invasion through soaring commodity prices, arguing Canberra has a moral duty to return “many billions” in windfall revenue to Kyiv. In evidence to a parliamentary committee, he said Australia had imported $123 million in fuel refined from Russian “blood oil” in four months — enough, he claimed, to buy 4900 drones used to bomb Ukraine. Mr Myroshnychenko condemned the Albanese government’s “nonsensical” strategy, saying it ignored the rise of a “Russia-China-North Korea co-operative”. He urged Australia to certify fuel imports free of Russian oil and resume aid deliveries, which he said had been “zero” in 2025. Foreign Minister Penny Wong acknowledged Australia lacks the tools to track refined fuel origins but said businesses must avoid funding Russia’s war.

>>23797049 Video: Victorian treaty passes parliament as authority workforce quadruples – Victoria has become the first Australian state to pass legislation enabling a formal treaty with its Indigenous peoples, marking a historic step in recognising self-determination and dual systems of law. The Treaty Authority — established in 2023 as an independent umpire to oversee negotiations between the government and traditional owner groups — reported its workforce had grown from 10 to 38, with 37 per cent Indigenous staff and an expanded role in facilitating both statewide and local treaties. The new advisory body, Gellung Warl, will guide implementation of the framework built through nearly a decade of consultation. Traditional owner groups, including the Dja Dja Wurrung, are now beginning negotiations for local treaties designed to reflect distinct community priorities, while the statewide treaty will address shared issues such as land, governance, and truth-telling.

>>23800853 Australian man Peter Williams faces lengthy US jail term after selling trade secrets to Russian broker – Former Australian intelligence officer and cybersecurity executive Peter Joseph Williams has pleaded guilty in a US court to selling trade secrets to a Russian broker for $US1.3m in cryptocurrency. Prosecutors said the 39-year-old stole eight confidential products intended “exclusively for the US government and select allies”, affecting intelligence operations in both the US and Australia. Working under an alias, he sold the data while employed at defence subcontractor Trenchant, a supplier to the Five Eyes network, and even led an internal probe into his own thefts. Senior FBI agent Alexander Arnott said Williams “betrayed the United States and our allies,” while US Attorney-General Pam Bondi warned, “America’s national security is not for sale.” Williams faces up to 20 years’ jail and likely deportation.

>>23801047 eSafety boss hits back at Trump ally over claims Australia threatens US free speech – Australia’s eSafety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant has rejected accusations by US Republican congressman Jim Jordan that Australia is undermining free speech in the United States. Mr Jordan, a close ally of Donald Trump and chair of the House Judiciary Committee, launched an inquiry into Stanford University’s Cyber Policy Centre after it hosted Ms Inman Grant in September, alleging it “facilitated foreign censorship”. Ms Inman Grant said eSafety “has nothing to do with achieving global censorship”, insisting that all companies must obey Australian law when displaying content to Australians. The clash highlights growing tensions between the Albanese government’s tech regulation and conservative US concerns about free expression.

>>23814328 Video: ASIO chief links Hizb ut-Tahrir and neo-Nazis, warns hostile nations could assassinate dissidents – ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess has likened Hizb ut-Tahrir’s tactics to those of neo-Nazis and warned that hostile regimes may attempt assassinations of dissidents in Australia. Delivering the Lowy Lecture in Sydney, he said the Islamist group’s anti-Israel rhetoric “fuels and normalises wider anti-Semitic narratives” and mirrors “provocative behaviour” by the National Socialist Network. Burgess revealed that three foreign nations are capable of “lethal targeting” in Australia, citing Iran’s direction of anti-Semitic arson attacks. He also said Russia was “covertly stoking division”, that anarchist extremists were increasingly violent, and that artificial intelligence is accelerating radicalisation, disinformation, and the erosion of social cohesion.

#43 - Part 35

Australian Politics and Society - Part 28

>>23814342 Video: Spy boss warns of ‘realistic possibility’ of foreign-ordered killings in Australia – ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess has warned there is a “realistic possibility” that foreign governments could attempt assassinations of dissidents in Australia. Speaking at the Lowy Institute in Sydney, he said the nation faces “unprecedented” threats to social cohesion driven by Russian trolls, neo-Nazis, Islamists and extreme anti-Israel activists. Burgess said three nations were “willing and capable of conducting lethal targeting”, referencing Iran’s past arson attacks on Jewish sites. He warned that authoritarian regimes are exploiting divisions through “state-sanctioned trolls”, while artificial intelligence could “take online radicalisation and disinformation to entirely new levels”. Burgess added that Hizb ut-Tahrir’s anti-Israel rhetoric mirrors neo-Nazi tactics and risks normalising antisemitic narratives in Australia’s polarised climate.

>>23814358 ASIO reveals foreign operations remit – ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess has confirmed that Australia’s domestic spy agency is now conducting operations offshore, with officers deployed to disrupt foreign intelligence activity. Speaking at the Lowy Institute, Burgess said ASIO “routinely conducts operations offshore” and now maintains offices in multiple countries. He revealed a recent sting in which ASIO officers intercepted foreign spies attempting to recruit Australians and issued a warning “that Australians were off limits”. Burgess also identified Russia as a growing espionage threat, citing arrests of two Russian-born citizens, and linked Iran to anti-Semitic attacks. He said hostile regimes are “unpicking our social fabric” and manipulating extremist narratives across the region to inflame division.

>>23814416 ASIO Director General Mike Burgess:How the aggrieved, opportunistic and cunning are ripping our social fabric- "Our social fabric is fraying — fraying in ways we have never experienced before… Grievance is growing, intolerance is rising, inflammatory rhetoric and behaviour is being normalised… There are multiple, cascading and intersecting threats to our social cohesion, fuelled by three distinct but connected cohorts: the aggrieved; the opportunistic; and the cunning. The aggrieved are the individuals who tear at our social fabric… The opportunistic are the organised groups that take advantage, including extremist organisations skilled at harnessing grievances… The biggest neo-Nazi group strategically exploited complaints about immigration and the cost of living… Events in the Middle East triggered a troubling increase in anarchist and revolutionary extremism… The cunning are the nation states deliberately trying to set the fabric alight, operating in a security grey zone to interfere, divide and distract… Authoritarian regimes demonstrate a chilling willingness to exploit fault lines… Given the degrading trajectory of our security environment… ASIO assesses there is a realistic possibility a foreign government will attempt to assassinate a perceived dissident in Australia." – Mike Burgess, Director-General of Security for the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO), The Australian

>>23814477 Reddit and Kick added to child social media ban – Australia’s upcoming ban on social media accounts for children under 16 will now include Reddit and live-streaming platform Kick, the government has confirmed. Communications Minister Anika Wells said the platforms join TikTok, Snapchat, YouTube, X, Facebook, Instagram and Threads as age-restricted from December 10 after eSafety ruled their primary purpose is online social interaction. Platforms must take “reasonable steps” to block under-16s or face fines up to $49.5 million. Tech firms say late guidance has made preparation difficult, but TikTok, Meta and Snap told a Senate hearing they will begin blocking underage users. Wells said there is “no excuse for failure”, adding that predatory algorithms should not “manipulate Australian children”.

>>23819492 Video: Improvised explosive devices seized in counterterrorism raid – Seven people have been charged after Queensland counterterrorism raids uncovered 20 kilograms of commercial explosives and multiple improvised explosive devices. The arrests follow Operation Whiskey Blackheart, formed in late 2024 to investigate illegal firearms and explosives trafficking. Assistant commissioner Charysse Pond said the raids showed police were “committed to keeping the community safe”, crediting the Counter-Terrorism Investigation Group. In a separate Far North Queensland operation, five people were charged after police and the Australian Border Force allegedly found unlawful firearms, flick knives, a taser, cannabis and other contraband at properties in Ravenshoe and Speewah.

#43 - Part 36

Australian Politics and Society - Part 29

>>23828037 Video: Left-wing protest group planned brick attacks on police before CBD unrest – Victoria Police are investigating evidence that extreme left-wing group Campaign Against Racism and Fascism planned violent actions weeks before clashes in Melbourne’s CBD, including explicit instructions to throw bricks at officers. Images from an October 3 University of Melbourne forum show attendees urged to “be militant,” “be aggressive,” and “make them be ashamed to walk the streets,” with one slide depicting brick-throwing. CARF denies advocating violence and blames an overseas guest speaker. On October 19, riot police were hit with rocks, glass-filled bottles, burning bins and other projectiles, with senior officers calling the assault coordinated. The university has launched a review, condemning any incitement. Politicians criticised the institution for hosting the event, while the Police Association renewed demands for a protest-permit system to help separate hostile groups.

>>23828077 Video: Police blunder allows neo-Nazi anti Jewish lobby rally outside NSW Parliament – A police-approved neo-Nazi rally outside the NSW parliament has drawn outrage from Jewish leaders and politicians, after extremist activists from the National Socialist Network staged a seven minute protest targeting the “Jewish lobby.” Footage showed members dressed in black chanting anti Jewish conspiracy lines and displaying a banner reading “Abolish the Jewish Lobby.” NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon admitted a “breakdown in communication” after officers approved a Form 1 request without briefing the government. Premier Chris Minns condemned the protesters as “pissants” and said the rally should never have occurred. Jewish community leaders warned unchecked hate risks becoming normalised, urging stronger laws and tools to combat extremism and protect social cohesion. Police are investigating potential offences.

>>23835108 Wurundjeri file native title claim over most of Greater Melbourne – The Wurundjeri people have lodged a 10,420 sq km native title claim covering most of Greater Melbourne, from Werribee River to Mount Baw Baw and including the Macedon Ranges, Yarra Valley and Port Phillip Bay. The bid, overlapping with the Boonwurrung claim, comes as Victoria prepares to sign its first statewide treaty. While freehold property rights are unaffected, the claim could expand Wurundjeri influence over parks, waterways and cultural sites, including fire-management practices in the Dandenongs and Great Dividing Range. Elders say they turned to native title after losing confidence in the state-based regime, seeking recognition of their traditional laws and an “intrinsic connection” to the Birrarung. The Tribunal will assess the claim as more Victorian groups prepare similar bids.

>>23835140 The avowed Nazi who signed protest application letter to police commissioner – NSW Police are facing scrutiny after a four-page Form 1 application for an anti-Jewish rally — signed by 28-year-old neo-Nazi Jack Eltis — was approved without escalation to senior command. Eltis, the NSW leader of the National Socialist Network and public advocate for deporting “every last non-white”, lodged the application under the “White Australia” brand, signalling its push for political registration. Despite his documented extremist rhetoric, local police cleared the “Abolish the Jewish Lobby” rally, later described by ASIO chief Mike Burgess as part of a growing threat of propaganda capable of prompting spontaneous violence. Commissioner Mal Lanyon only learned of the event after media inquiries. Officers are now reviewing whether the rally’s Hitler-linked chants and conspiratorial claims breached new laws against public incitement of racial hatred, amid broader concerns about internal communication failures.

>>23835160 Video: NSW plans urgent ban on Nazi phrases after weekend rally – NSW is preparing urgent laws to ban Nazi slogans and fascist-linked attire after police approved a White Australia neo-Nazi rally outside parliament without informing Premier Chris Minns or Commissioner Mal Lanyon. Speaker Greg Piper said he only learned of the event the night before and tried unsuccessfully to have it moved, arguing hatred “should not own that space”. Police said legal advice found the banner “Abolish the Jewish lobby” did not breach existing laws but confirmed a review into why the rally was not escalated. The Minns government wants to criminalise Nazi chants such as “blood and honour” and behaviour “consistent” with Nazi racism. Opposition Leader Mark Speakman said the proposed crackdown had merit, as MPs who criticised the rally reported receiving vile online abuse.

#43 - Part 37

Australian Politics and Society - Part 30

>>23839293 Video: Premier’s promised mask laws to fall short amid prospect of legal challenges – Victoria will water down its planned protest mask ban, with new laws allowing face coverings unless police reasonably suspect someone is committing or about to commit an offence. Exemptions will apply for health, cultural and religious reasons. The shift follows warnings a blanket ban could breach the constitution’s implied freedom of political communication and trigger court challenges, as well as internal Labor concerns. Premier Jacinta Allan had pledged a full ban after the Adass Israel Synagogue firebombing and pro-Gaza protests she said involved “extreme” behaviour. The bill will also outlaw terrorist symbols and protest devices such as glue and chains, and restrict - but not ban - protests outside places of worship. Jewish groups are expected to be disappointed, while the opposition says the changes are too weak.

>>23839301 NSW reveals new laws to stop protests outside places of worship - NSW will reintroduce protest laws allowing police to move on demonstrators who harass, block or intimidate people entering or leaving places of worship, after the previous version was struck down in a Supreme Court challenge led by Palestine Action Group organiser Josh Lees. The revised bill ties police powers directly to Crimes Act offences and is part of a broader response to a neo-Nazi rally outside parliament that Premier Chris Minns and Police Minister Yasmin Catley say they were not told about. Minns will also seek to scrap a sunset clause on hate speech laws, arguing “Nazis are not welcome in NSW”. The government is examining bans on Nazi slogans and behaviour, while the opposition proposes limits on protest frequency and cost burdens.

>>23839306 Brittany Higgins likely to be declared bankrupt over Linda Reynolds’ defamation case - Brittany Higgins is expected to be declared bankrupt after former senator Linda Reynolds filed a creditors’ petition seeking a sequestration order to place Higgins’ financial affairs under a trustee. It follows August’s defamation ruling, where Justice Paul Tottle found Higgins had made “objectively untrue and misleading statements” and ordered her to pay Reynolds $340,000 in damages plus about 80 percent of legal costs, bringing her total liability to well over $1m. The trustee will gain full access to Higgins’ financial records, including the “protective trust” holding proceeds of her $2.4m Commonwealth payout, and may require her passport if she is deemed a flight risk. Higgins, who reportedly spent more than $600,000 on her defence, is not expected to appear. Her husband, David Sharaz, faces a similar action next month.

>>23843505 ‘New era’: Australia, Indonesia strike surprise security treaty - (Video) Australia and Indonesia have unveiled a landmark security treaty committing both nations to consult one another in the event of a threat, marking what Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called a “new era” in bilateral ties. Announced in Sydney with Indonesian President-elect Prabowo Subianto, the pact represents the closest security alignment in the nations’ history, stopping short of a formal military alliance but extending well beyond previous agreements, including the Lombok Treaty. The tightly held deal will mandate regular leader-level discussions on security risks and expand co-operative activities across defence and intelligence. Foreign Minister Penny Wong said it reflects “deep trust” under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Analysts say the treaty is a major shift for Indonesia, long protective of its non-aligned posture. Albanese aims to sign the pact in Jakarta in January.

>>23843512 Video: Jacinta Allan vows life sentences possible for children as young as 14 - Premier Jacinta Allan will overhaul Victoria’s youth justice system, moving to an “adult crime, adult time” model that sends offenders aged 14 and over to adult courts for violent crimes, exposing them to significantly longer sentences, including life imprisonment. Children charged with aggravated home invasion, home invasion, aggravated carjacking and gross-violence assaults using weapons will be automatically shifted to the County Court, removing these offences from the Children’s Court. Ms Allan said youth offenders must face “serious consequences” amid rising public anger over violent home invasions and machete attacks. Attorney-General Sonya Kilkenny said adult courts better reflect community expectations. Legal groups warn the changes will harm vulnerable children, but the government views youth crime as an escalating political liability heading into the 2026 election.

#43 - Part 38

Australian Politics and Society - Part 31

>>23843517 Far-right figure who visited ‘motherland’ Germany is close to forming national party - The neo-Nazi organiser of Saturday’s anti-Jewish rally, 28-year-old Jack Eltis, has travelled to Germany – which he called “the motherland” – to meet far-right groups as part of the National Socialist Network’s push to register a political party and run candidates federally and in NSW. NSW Police intelligence officers knew of the rally in advance, but Deputy Commissioner David Hudson, who oversees counter-terrorism, was not briefed, deepening scrutiny of police handling after Commissioner Mal Lanyon was also kept in the dark. About 60 NSN members gathered outside parliament chanting extremist slogans. Eltis says the party is “90 per cent” formed and aims for mass deportations. ASIO warns the NSN’s rhetoric is increasingly violent and risks “spontaneous violence”. The Minns government is now moving to tighten hate-speech and protest laws.

>>23843541 Russia loses High Court battle with Commonwealth over Canberra embassy site, but will be compensated - Russia has lost its High Court challenge to the 2023 law that revoked its lease on a prime embassy site in Canberra, with the court ruling the Albanese government acted lawfully on national security grounds. The lease, granted in 2008 for nearly $3 million, was cancelled after ASIO warned the planned embassy posed a potential security threat, prompting emergency legislation and a diplomatic row. Although the law was upheld, the court found Russia is entitled to compensation for works already completed. The National Capital Authority had earlier tried to revoke the stalled project after years of inaction, and a Russian official briefly occupied the site in protest. Attorney-General Michelle Rowland said Australia “will always stand up for our national security”. The future of the site is undecided.

>>23847844 Video: Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell granted bail after alleged attack on Indigenous camp - Neo-Nazi Thomas Sewell has been granted Supreme Court bail on strict conditions despite facing more than 20 charges over an alleged violent August 31 attack on Camp Sovereignty in Melbourne’s Kings Domain. Prosecutors allege Sewell personally led about 30 National Socialist Network members into the Indigenous camp, shouting “let’s get them”, before multiple victims were kicked, punched, or struck with poles. Police say one woman suffered a nasal fracture, another required seven staples, and missiles were discharged. The defence argued Sewell risked spending longer on remand than any future sentence, noting all 14 co-accused were bailed. Justice James Elliott found the prosecution had not shown Sewell posed an unacceptable risk, granting bail with a $20,000 surety, curfew, reporting conditions, and bans on entering Melbourne’s CBD or Kings Domain.

#43 - Part 39

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 1

>>23567180 Big changes made to Epstein accuser’s memoir after family complains - The publisher of Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir Nobody’s Girl has altered the text after her family said it presented an “unduly positive portrait” of her marriage, which ended before her death in April. Knopf worked with Virginia's brothers and their wives to “contextualize the narrative,” adding a foreword by collaborator Amy Wallace noting changes in Giuffre’s life since 2024. Publisher Jordan Pavlin said the book remains “a testament to Virginia’s dignity and fortitude.” Family members also joined Epstein survivors at a Capitol Hill press conference urging release of sex-trafficking files and rejecting Donald Trump’s claim the case is a “hoax.”

>>23567187 Q Post #4923 - https://twitter.com/VRSVirginia/status/1319071346282778624 - Dearest Virginia - We stand with you. Now and always. Find peace through prayer. Never give up the good fight. God bless you. Q - https://qanon.pub/#4923 - https://qanon.pub/#4568

>>23603441 Video: Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre’s private battle revealed in diary entries - To the rest of the world Virginia Guiffre may have symbolised strength, taking on and bringing down the rich and powerful - the likes of Jeffery Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and most famously Prince Andrew. But privately, she was fighting a battle of her own. If you or someone you know needs support, help is available 24/7. - Lifeline: Call 13 11 14, text 0477 13 11 14 or visit lifeline.org.au - Beyond Blue: Call 1300 22 4636 or visit beyondblue.org.au - DV Connect: Call 1800 RESPECT or visit 1800respect.org.au - 60 Minutes Australia

>>23706825 US supreme court declines to hear Ghislaine Maxwell’s appeal of sex-trafficking conviction – The US Supreme Court has rejected Ghislaine Maxwell’s bid to overturn her sex-trafficking conviction, ending her legal avenues for appeal. Maxwell, sentenced in 2022 to 20 years for recruiting and exploiting girls for Jeffrey Epstein, can now only seek presidential clemency. Her lawyer, David Oscar Markus, said “serious legal and factual issues remain.” The ruling upholds an earlier appeals court decision finding Epstein’s Florida non-prosecution deal did not shield Maxwell. The decision comes amid renewed controversy surrounding President Donald Trump’s past ties to Epstein and allegations of White House interference in related disclosures. Victims’ advocates welcomed the ruling, saying Maxwell had caused “devastating harm.”

>>23706838 Video: Donald Trump says he would consider a pardon for Ghislaine Maxwell – US President Donald Trump said he would “take a look” at pardoning convicted sex trafficker and former associate Ghislaine Maxwell after her Supreme Court appeal was rejected. Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump appeared unaware of the ruling, saying, “I’ll take a look at it… I will speak to the DOJ.” Maxwell is serving a 20-year sentence for trafficking a teenage girl. Trump also claimed Sean “Diddy” Combs had asked him for a pardon. Meanwhile, House Republicans have delayed swearing in Democrat Adelita Grijalva, blocking a vote to force the release of Epstein-related files. Democrats called the move part of an “Epstein cover-up.”

>>23730627 Prince Andrew told Epstein ‘we are in this together’ – A leaked email has revealed Prince Andrew told Jeffrey Epstein “we are in this together” the day after a photograph surfaced showing him with Virginia Giuffre, undermining his claim to have cut ties with the paedophile financier in 2010. The 2011 message, verified by UK media, shows Andrew expressing concern for Epstein and signing off as “HRH The Duke of York, KG” - a reference to his title as Knight of the Garter, Britain’s oldest and most senior order of chivalry, which he still holds today. Royal experts said the leak is “hugely damning,” describing it as “the point of no return” for Andrew. The disclosure has renewed scrutiny of his relationship with Epstein and its lasting damage to the monarchy’s reputation.

>>23745027 Release of Virginia Giuffre's memoir renews sex allegations against Prince Andrew – Extracts from Virginia Giuffre’s posthumously released memoir Nobody’s Girl have reignited scrutiny of Prince Andrew, repeating allegations she was trafficked to the royal for sex as a minor — claims he has consistently denied. The Guardian published excerpts quoting Giuffre describing the prince as “friendly enough, but still entitled — as if he believed having sex with me was his birthright.” The memoir, completed before Giuffre’s death in April with journalist Amy Wallace, will be released next week. It comes amid resurfaced media reports linking Prince Andrew and Sarah, Duchess of York, to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, both convicted of sex offences.

#43 - Part 40

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 2

>>23745089 ‘Prince Andrew believed having sex with me was his birthright’:Virginia Giuffre on her abuse at the hands of Epstein, Maxwell and the king’s brother- In an extract from her posthumous memoir, Virginia Roberts Giuffre remembers the day an ‘apex predator’ recruited her from Mar-a-Lago, aged just 16; how she was trafficked to a succession of wealthy and powerful men - and how everyone knew what was going on.

I can still remember walking on to the manicured grounds of Mar-a-Lago for the first time. It was early morning - my dad’s shift began at 7am, and I’d caught a ride to work with him. Already the air was heavy and moist, and the club’s 20 acres of carefully landscaped greens and lawns seemed to shimmer.

Then one steaming hot day some weeks before my 17th birthday, I was walking toward the Mar-a-Lago spa, on my way to work, when a car slowed behind me. Inside was a British socialite named Ghislaine Maxwell and her driver. Alessi did as he was told, and I found out later that Maxwell got out and followed me. I didn’t know it yet, but an apex predator was closing in.

‘Are you interested in massage?’ she asked. ‘How wonderful!’ Maxwell said she knew a wealthy man - a longtime Mar-a-Lago member, she said - who was looking for a massage therapist to travel with him. ‘Come meet him,’ she said. ‘Come tonight after work.’

A few hours later, Dad gave me a lift to El Brillo Way. When we arrived we found ourselves in front of a sprawling two-storey, six-bedroom mansion. Maxwell answered and came outside. ‘Thank you so very much for dropping her off,’ she told Dad, all smiles.

Walking behind her, I tried not to stare at the walls, which were crowded with photos and paintings of nude women. Maybe this was how wealthy people with sophisticated taste decorated their homes? When we reached the second-floor landing, Maxwell turned right and led me into a bedroom. We made a U-turn around a king-size bed, then entered an adjoining room with a massage table. A man lay face down on top of it, his head resting on his folded arms. I remember his bushy eyebrows and the deep lines in his face as he grinned. ‘Say hello to Mr Jeffrey Epstein,’ Maxwell instructed. ‘You can just call me Jeffrey,’ he said. He was 47 years old - nearly three times older than me.

Palm Beach was just 16 miles from my home town, Loxahatchee, but the economic divide made it seem way farther. I needed to learn how rich people did things. Besides, while the man on the table was nude, it’s not like I was alone with him. The fact that a woman was with me made me breathe easier.

Maxwell began to demonstrate the techniques of massage, showing me how to move my hands with what she called ‘continuity and flow’. She instructed me to keep one palm on the client’s skin at all times so as never to startle him. It all felt oddly formal, almost like a lesson, and I focused on following her directions. Every time I hesitated, she reassured me with her calm tone and steady confidence.

Epstein asked me questions. ‘Do you have siblings?’ Two brothers, I said. ‘Where do you go to high school?’ I told him I’d quit after ninth grade, but I was only 16. ‘Do you take birth control?’ Epstein asked. Was that a weird question in a job interview? Epstein indicated this was just his way of getting to know me. After all, I might soon be travelling with him. I told him I was on the pill.

‘You’re doing great,’ Maxwell said, as I kept my hands in sync with hers.

Only later would I see how, step by practised step, the two of them were breaking down my defences. Every time I felt a twinge of discomfort, one glance at Maxwell told me I was overreacting. And so it went for about half an hour: a seemingly legitimate massage lesson…

While they usually slept in separate bedrooms, and rarely kissed or held hands, it seemed to me that Maxwell and Epstein lived in complete symbiosis. Epstein, who described Maxwell as his best friend, valued her knack for connecting him to powerful people. Maxwell, in turn, appreciated that Epstein had the resources to fund the lavish life she thought she deserved. Over time, I would come to see Epstein and Maxwell less as boyfriend and girlfriend, and more as two halves of a wicked whole.

Virginia Giuffre, The Guardian - 16 October 2025

#43 - Part 41

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 3

>>23745186 Prince Andrew: I am giving up my royal titles – Prince Andrew has agreed with King Charles to stop using his titles, including Duke of York, saying “continued accusations” against him had become a distraction to the monarchy. In a statement released by Buckingham Palace, Andrew said he had “always put my duty to my family and country first” and would “no longer use my title or the honours which have been conferred upon me.” The decision follows renewed scrutiny of his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein and continuing fallout from Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir. Palace aides described the move as a “tipping point” after years of scandal and public pressure from the King and Prince William. Virginia Giuffre’s family hailed the announcement as “vindication”, while Epstein survivor Haley Robson said it showed “someone is finally being held accountable.”

>>23745208 Video: Virginia Giuffre's brother calls for Andrew to be stripped of prince title – Virginia Giuffre’s brother, Sky Roberts, has urged King Charles to strip Prince Andrew of the title “prince” following his decision to relinquish his other titles, including Duke of York. Roberts said his late sister would be “very proud” of the development and called for “responsibility and accountability for these survivors.” Prince Andrew, who settled a civil case with Giuffre in 2022 without admitting liability, continues to deny her allegations that he had sex with her when she was 17. Roberts described the move as “vindication” for his sister and a “joyous moment” for survivors, adding that “the truth will find its way out.” The release of Giuffre’s posthumous memoir next week is expected to renew scrutiny of Andrew’s links to Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell.

>>23745222 Video: Prince Andrew ‘gagged’ Virginia Giuffre to avoid spoiling Queen’s jubilee, book claims – Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir alleges that Prince Andrew required her to sign a one-year gag order as part of their 2022 settlement, to avoid embarrassing Queen Elizabeth II during her Platinum Jubilee. “It ensured that his mother’s Platinum Jubilee would not be tarnished any more than it already had been,” she wrote. Giuffre said Andrew’s disastrous 2019 Newsnight interview — in which he denied meeting her and cited an inability to sweat — gave her legal team “an injection of jet fuel.” The book recounts her disbelief at seeing him with Jeffrey Epstein after his conviction and details her civil case, which ended with a reported $12m payout and a tacit acknowledgment of victims’ suffering.

>>23745422 Virginia Giuffre beaten, raped by ‘well-known prime minister’ in attack that broke Epstein spell, her memoir reveals – Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir Nobody’s Girl describes how her experiences under Jeffrey Epstein’s control ended after a violent encounter with a “well-known prime minister.” Giuffre wrote that the ordeal forced her to realise Epstein’s praise was “a manipulation to keep me subservient.” She referred to the man only as “the Prime Minister,” fearing retaliation if she revealed his name, though previous court filings had named Israel’s former leader Ehud Barak, who has repeatedly denied her claims. Giuffre said Epstein dismissed her pleas for protection and later sent her to meet the politician again. The memoir, written before her death in April, also details her decision to stop recruiting girls and plan her escape from Epstein’s circle.

>>23767648 ‘I was Epstein’s perfect victim’: the life of Virginia Giuffre in her own words – Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir Nobody’s Girl provides the most complete account yet of her life, tracing her abuse by Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, her alleged encounters with Prince Andrew, and her later years in Australia. Recruited at 16 while working at Donald Trump’s Mar-a-Lago resort, Giuffre describes being drawn into Epstein’s circle, forced into sexual servitude and flown to meet his powerful associates. She alleges she was trafficked internationally and abused by Andrew three times, claims he continues to deny. The book also recounts her early family trauma, escape to Thailand, marriage to Australian Robert Giuffre, and her role in helping expose Epstein’s network through US lawsuits. In her final years she struggled with mental illness and domestic difficulties. Giuffre died by suicide in Perth in April 2025, aged 41, leaving instructions that her memoir be published to raise awareness of sexual exploitation and trafficking.

#43 - Part 42

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 4

>>23767658 Review: Virginia Giuffre’s devastating memoir reveals a lifetime of abuse – (Video) "Her name may forever be tied to powerful men — Jeffrey Epstein, Prince Andrew, Jean-Luc Brunel — but Virginia Roberts Giuffre makes it known that she wants to stand alone now. And with Nobody’s Girl, she reclaims her identity from all of them. The posthumous memoir, which follows Giuffre’s suicide earlier this year at the age of 41, is a devastating read. With composure and candour, the abuse survivor and sex-trafficking activist recounts a short life marred by sexual violence. It started in early childhood at the hands of her father, and proved unrelenting until adulthood. Only fleeing from paedophile Epstein and his co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell put an end to it. Before she died, Giuffre insisted that she wanted her autobiography to be published, collaborating with ghostwriter Amy Wallace for four years to chronicle a tragic but fearless life. Her personal backstory had been repeatedly maligned and mischaracterised ever since she went public with her abuse. After sharing her trauma to courts and the media so many times, Nobody’s Girl was to be her final comment on Epstein." – Nathan Smith, The Age

>>23767695 Nobody’s Girl review: Should you read Virginia Giuffre’s memoir? – "I have lost count of the number of people — most of them women — who want an answer to this question. They have seen all the reporting around Nobody’s Girl … and they have mixed feelings about whether they should buy a copy. Some are thinking: oh, do I really want to read a memoir of abuse? Others may be thinking: haven’t we heard all this before? … Some, like Virginia, won’t make it. She’s dead. So, should you read it? Look, I’m going to make the case for yes, emphatically yes. Nobody’s Girl is an immensely valuable resource … Giuffre was a child growing up in the small town of Loxahatchee when she was assaulted by a grown-up. ‘When children are abused,’ she explains, ‘they start to believe that love and violation go together.’ … She names many of the people who took advantage of her, which brings me to the reference to Trump on page 222. It doesn’t fit the narrative: ‘Epstein had been shunned by at least one powerful person,’ Giuffre writes. ‘Donald Trump ended Epstein’s membership at Mar-a-Lago … after Epstein hit on the teenage daughter of another member.’" – Caroline Overington, The Australian

>>23767734 Nobody’s Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre review: a devastating exposé of power, corruption and abuse – "There is a strand running through Nobody’s Girl - a memoir by Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who died by suicide in April this year – in which the activist and survivor of Jeffrey Epstein grapples with something more insidious than abuse. “I know it is a lot to take in,” she writes after a gruelling early passage detailing how she was sexually abused as a child. “But please don’t stop reading.” After recounting the first time Epstein allegedly forced her to have sex with one of his billionaire friends, she writes, “I need a breather. I bet you do too.” Throughout the book, Giuffre beguiles, apologises and cheerfully breaks the fourth wall in an effort to soften the distaste she assumes her story will trigger. Make no mistake: this is a book about power, corruption, industrial-scale sex abuse and the way in which institutions sided with the perpetrator over his victims. Epstein hanged himself in prison while awaiting trial in 2019 and Ghislaine Maxwell, his co-conspirator, is serving a 20-year sentence for sex trafficking, outcomes largely enabled by Giuffre’s testimony. But it is also a book about how a young woman becomes a hero. And yet here she is, having to charm us out of shrinking from her in horror. Giuffre was rightly proud of holding Epstein and Maxwell to account. And yet for any survivor of sexual violence, the cost of recovery - let alone of confronting her abusers in front of the world - can be impossibly steep. At the beginning of the book, Amy Wallace shares details of Giuffre’s fraught final months, including multiple health problems and alleged domestic violence at the hands of Robert Giuffre, her Australian husband … On 1 April, Giuffre wrote to Wallace: “It is my heartfelt wish that this work be published, regardless of my circumstances at the time.” Three weeks later, she was found dead on her remote Australian farm, leaving behind three children. In a lawsuit Giuffre brought against Epstein in 2009, her lawyers stated the injuries she suffered as a result of his abuse included “a loss of the capacity to enjoy life”, and were of a magnitude that made them “permanent in nature”. The same might be said for this important, courageous, tragically posthumous book." - Emma Brockes, The Guardian

#43 - Part 43

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 5

>>23767761 The tragic life of Virginia Giuffre, victim of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell – "Choosing the saddest moment in Virginia Giuffre’s life is tough. Was it the father who traded her prepubescent body to a friend? The “prime minister” who raped her so violently he left her bleeding? Or the bitter end of the relationship with the only man who dedicated his life to fixing hers? Virginia Giuffre, who died by her own hand six months ago, acknowledges the abuse catalogued in her posthumous memoir, Nobody’s Girl, constitutes a “trauma reel.” Published on Tuesday, the book is an insiders account of one of the great abuse-of-power scandals of the 21st century. As one of the financier Jeffrey Epstein’s central victims, Giuffre was presented as a gift to the rich and powerful. The abuse continued after Giuffre escaped aged 19. Prince Andrew, the most prominent man accused by Giuffre of using her for sex, asked a police bodyguard to investigate the young woman, who he told a senior palace official had a criminal record in the US, the Daily Mail reported overnight. In Nobody’s Girl Giuffre describes how, as a teenager, she believed Epstein cared for the girls he shared around for sex. She changed her mind when a man described as a “well-known prime minister” choked and beat her in a room on Epstein’s private Caribbean island. Afterwards, Giuffre begged Epstein for protection. He coldly told her the abuse was part of her job … There was no happy ending. Unable to bear the weigh of her life, Giuffre took her life at the Western Australia property she bought with compensation from lawsuits against banks that helped Epstein’s business after he was accused of sexual abuse against children in 2006. Written over four years, Nobody’s Girl’s original text portrayed Giuffre’s husband as her saviour. The couple’s marriage broke down in the months before her death, though, and Robert had taken out a legal order restricting her access to their three children. Three weeks before her suicide, People magazine reported she was an alleged victim of domestic violence. The magazine reported that her brother Sky Roberts and his wife Amanda were allegedly concerned she could die at the hands of her estranged partner, who denied the allegation He was not charged, even though Giuffre made a police complaint at the time, according to People. As the book neared publication, family members became concerned the manuscript presented the marriage too positively. They convinced publisher Knopf to include a foreword that referred to the bitter end of the relationship. Powerless and pretty, the teenage Giuffre was exploited by men who had everything she didn’t. As an adult, Giuffre was no longer a victim. The strength of her story made her far more powerful, morally, than anyone who abused her." – Aaron Patrick, The Nightly

>>23767774 ‘Tell us everything you saw, Andrew, for Virginia’s sake’ – Amy Wallace, the American journalist who co-wrote Virginia Giuffre’s memoir Nobody’s Girl, has urged Prince Andrew to reveal what he knows about Jeffrey Epstein’s network, regardless of his personal involvement. Wallace said Giuffre’s “fervent wish” was that every man she was trafficked to be brought to justice. Having worked alongside Giuffre for four years, Wallace described her as brave, wary of trust after Ghislaine Maxwell’s betrayal, and determined to help other survivors. The book recounts Giuffre’s alleged encounters with Epstein, Maxwell, and Prince Andrew, whom she accused of misconduct — claims Andrew has always denied. Wallace said Andrew “has information about other things that were going on” and should step forward. She also revealed Giuffre’s admiration for Donald Trump, her disillusionment with politics, and her isolation before her death. “She built a life beyond her trauma,” Wallace said, “even though it wasn’t perfect all the time.”

>>23767778 Video: 'Nobody's Girl' shows Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre as 'a woman in full,' says co-author - Author Amy Wallace joins Morning Joe to discuss 'Nobody's Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice,' a book she co-authored with Virginia Roberts Giuffre. - MSNBC

>>23767784 Video: Co-author of Epstein survivor Virginia Giuffre's memoir details new revelations from the book - 'I think she would be very proud and it's a victory for her even after her passing': Amy Wallace, co-author of "Nobody's Girl" details what it was like to work with Epstein survivor Virginia Roberts Giuffre's to write her memoir. - CNN

#43 - Part 44

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 6

>>23767791 Video: Epstein survivor Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir exposes abuse by powerful men - A new book tells the story of Virginia Roberts Giuffre, one of many victims of sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Giuffre died by suicide earlier this year. Her posthumous memoir explores her resilience while also revealing new details about the abuse she suffered at the hands of powerful figures. Amna Nawaz has that story. And a warning, this report includes accounts of sexual abuse and suicide. - PBS NewsHour

>>23767831 ‘He watched me beg for my life. Even in Australia, I couldn’t escape Epstein and my abusers’ – In this extract from her memoir, Virginia Giuffre writes that even after taking refuge in Australia, she could not escape Jeffrey Epstein and her abusers.

When I picture myself during my first few days in Australia, I have to laugh. I am standing behind the stove in my in-laws’ kitchen, learning how to make coffee the Italian way, one strong cup at a time. I pour water into a tiny silver percolator, then spoon finely ground coffee into the sieve-like reservoir through which hot water will soon flow. It’s a cozy scene, except for what I’m wearing: a skimpy undershirt and Daisy Duke cut-off shorts with my thong underwear protruding from the waistband. To see me, you might think I’m trying to show off my body, but that isn’t right. While in Jeffrey Epstein’s employ, I’d been encouraged to wear clothes that made me look even younger than I was. Now, no longer Epstein’s captive, I was a wife - a grown woman. But I still felt – and dressed – like a teenage girl. I didn’t have the slightest idea how an adult version of me should look.

When I moved into Frank and Nina’s house, that was just the beginning of what I didn’t know. I had never loaded a dishwasher, for example, or scrambled an egg or separated laundry into darks and lights. I’d never opened a bank account or filed income taxes or made a good cup of coffee - the list went on and on. Sometimes the weight of my ignorance overwhelmed me. What is adulthood, I wondered, and will I ever master it? What is it to be a wife? It would take time for me to figure out the answers.

One day Robbie came home from work and found me sitting on the floor in the corner of our apartment, surrounded by blood and broken glass. I had been cutting myself - not trying to kill myself, but instead using the clarity of inflicting my own pain to quiet my raging demons. When Nina arrived, she swooped in like a bosomy angel, kicking the shards of glass away and taking me into her arms. She must’ve held me for an hour, rocking me, telling me it would be all right. Then she took me to the bathtub, stripped off my clothes, and tenderly washed me as if I were her own child. Once again Robbie’s parents were giving me what I’d been missing since I was a tiny girl.

One day I walked by the living room as my mother-in-law was watching television. There, on the screen, was an actress who’d once been one of Epstein’s victims, like me. Now there she was on Nina’s TV. “How do you know her?” Nina asked, seeing my stunned face. I didn’t know what to say, so I turned and left the room. Then, in March 2003, Vanity Fair magazine published a lengthy profile titled “The Talented Mr Epstein”. I don’t remember exactly when I first read it, but I do recall being shocked by its gushing tone: Epstein was described as “good-looking”, “charming”, “very generous”, and “like a king in his own world”; his Manhattan townhouse was like “someone’s private Xanadu”. There was a reference to Epstein’s love of women (“mostly young”) and a description of his “complicated past” - a reference to some of his questionable financial dealings. But the article said many people had commented that “there is something innocent, almost child-like about” him. “Oh, is that what you call it?” I asked out loud. “Innocent?!” Then I threw the magazine across the room.

Virginia Roberts Giuffre, The Age - October 24, 2025

>>23767886 Q Post #4923 - https://twitter.com/VRSVirginia/status/1319071346282778624 - Dearest Virginia - We stand with you. Now and always. Find peace through prayer. Never give up the good fight. God bless you. Q - https://qanon.pub/#4923 - https://qanon.pub/#4568

>>23767886 Q Post #1001 - Where do roads lead? Each prince is associated with a cardinal direction: north, south, east and west. Sacrifice. Collect. [Classified]-1 - [Classified]-2 - Tunnels. Table 29. - D-Room H - D-Room R - D-Room C - Pure EVIL. - 'Conspiracy' - Q - https://qanon.pub/#1001

#43 - Part 45

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 7

>>23771501 Email reveals Epstein used Andrew as fixer to lure Australian PM’s daughter to mansion – Newly revealed emails show Jeffrey Epstein asked Prince Andrew to arrange a dinner with Katherine Keating, daughter of former Australian prime minister Paul Keating. In a February 2011 message, Epstein wrote: “Would you ask Katherine Keating if she would like to come for dinner with Woody Allen next week in New York?” to which Andrew replied, “Will do.” Ms Keating confirmed she attended the dinner at Andrew’s invitation, describing it as “a large social event” with prominent media figures present. She denied any wrongdoing or knowledge of Epstein’s crimes. The revelation comes amid renewed scrutiny of Andrew’s continued contact with Epstein after claiming to have cut ties.

>>23780205 Video: Virginia Roberts Giuffre's brothers say Jeffrey Epstein's cameras captured crimes, demand they be released – Virginia Giuffre’s brothers have called for US authorities to release evidence she said was held by the FBI, including alleged video tapes showing powerful men committing crimes inside Jeffrey Epstein’s properties. Her brother Sky Roberts told 7.30 the US Department of Justice “holds the key to this entire investigation” and that his sister had turned over “numerous documents” still unreleased. In her memoir Nobody’s Girl, Giuffre described years of sexual abuse, including by Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, and alleged she was forced to have sex with a “well-known prime minister”. Her older brother Danny Wilson said she told him years ago, “I’m saving the best for last.” Giuffre’s friend Dini von Mueffling said hidden cameras were “very well known” to exist in Epstein’s homes and urged the release of any seized footage. Sky called her book a “predator’s playbook”, showing both the manipulation and “the goofiness, the quirkiness” of his sister, adding, “I think she refused to stay silent.”

>>23796662 King Charles strips Andrew of ‘prince’ title and evicts his disgraced brother from Royal Lodge - (Video) Buckingham Palace confirmed that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been stripped of his “prince” title and ordered to vacate Royal Lodge, marking the most severe royal sanction in decades. The King’s brother will relocate to the Sandringham estate in Norfolk, with his new residence privately funded by King Charles. The palace said the move was “necessary” despite Andrew’s continuing denials, adding that “Their Majesties’ thoughts and utmost sympathies remain with the victims and survivors of any and all forms of abuse.” The decision comes days after the release of Virginia Giuffre’s memoir, in which she repeated her claims of being trafficked to Andrew by Jeffrey Epstein at age 17. Her family declared that “an ordinary American girl … brought down a British prince with her truth and extraordinary courage.” The action follows reports Andrew hosted Epstein, Ghislaine Maxwell and Harvey Weinstein at Royal Lodge, and had not paid rent for two decades. His ex-wife Sarah Ferguson will make separate living arrangements.

>>23796734 Video: King Charles strips Andrew of ‘prince’ title – King Charles has formally stripped Andrew of all titles and honours and ordered him to vacate his 30-room Royal Lodge residence, in the most severe royal sanction in modern history. Buckingham Palace confirmed that Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor will move to Sandringham, with accommodation privately funded by the King. The move follows years of fallout from his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and the release of Virginia Giuffre’s memoir detailing alleged abuse. Her family said their sister had “brought down a British prince with her truth and extraordinary courage.” The King’s action removes Andrew’s titles of Duke of York, Earl of Inverness and Baron Killyleagh, and cancels his honours in the Order of the Garter and the Royal Victorian Order. Despite the unprecedented decision, Andrew remains eighth in line to the throne. The British government backed the move, saying it sent “a very powerful message to the victims of grooming and sex offences.”

#43 - Part 46

Virginia Roberts Giuffre - Life and Legacy - Part 8

>>23796758 ‘She’d be so proud,’ Virginia Giuffre’s family tell BBC – (Video) The family of Virginia Giuffre have hailed the stripping of Prince Andrew’s title as an “unprecedented” victory, saying their sister had “taken down a prince.” Speaking through tears to BBC Newsnight, her brother Sky Roberts said Giuffre was “celebrating from the heavens now saying ‘I did it’,” adding that “she’d be so proud — he’s just Andrew.” He insisted the move was “not enough” and called for an investigation, saying Andrew “needs to be behind bars.” Giuffre’s sister-in-law Amanda said, “Everything she fought for was not in vain,” describing it as “a moment for her and all survivors.” Buckingham Palace announced King Charles had initiated the formal process to remove Andrew’s titles after emails from 2011 showed he remained in contact with Jeffrey Epstein. The family urged US authorities to release further Epstein files, declaring: “The UK is setting an example for what the US should be doing right now.”

>>23847758 Video: New Epstein emails allege Donald Trump 'knew about the girls - Newly released emails from Jeffrey Epstein to Ghislaine Maxwell and author Michael Wolff have intensified scrutiny of Donald Trump’s past association with the disgraced financier, though the documents do not allege wrongdoing by the US President. Democrats released more than 20,000 estate documents, including a 2011 claim that Virginia Giuffre “spent hours” at Epstein’s home with Trump and a 2019 message asserting Trump “knew about the girls”. The White House condemned the release as a partisan hit, insisting Trump expelled Epstein from Mar-a-Lago and “did nothing wrong”. The timing coincides with a bipartisan House push to force the public release of all Epstein files after a petition reached 218 signatures.

>>23847817 ‘The photo of Andrew and Giuffre was real,’ Epstein emails suggest - Newly released US House Oversight Committee emails appear to contradict Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor’s claim that the photograph of him with 17-year-old Virginia Giuffre may have been faked. In a 2011 message to journalist Michael Wolff, Jeffrey Epstein allegedly wrote: “Yes she was on my plane, and yes she had her picture taken with Andrew,” shortly after Giuffre’s identity became public. Other emails show Andrew privately telling Epstein “I can’t take any more of this my end” as the scandal intensified. The tranche, subpoenaed from the Epstein estate, also includes Epstein claiming Giuffre “spent several hours” with Donald Trump, prompting the White House to accuse Democrats of pushing a contrived narrative. Further exchanges show Epstein, Maxwell and Andrew coordinating media strategy, while Epstein thanks Lord Mandelson, the former UK ambassador to the US, for advice on distancing himself from the prince.

#43 - Part 47

The Transgender Agenda - Australia and Worldwide - Part 1

>>23555576 COMMENTARY: Trans lobby defends a lie that silences women – (Video) "Who could have imagined that the ordinary meaning of male and female would one day be put on trial, and that the very body created to defend women’s rights would argue that “female” is essentially meaningless? … Yet that is exactly what is happening in the Giggle v Tickle case, in which Roxanne Tickle, a transgender woman, successfully sued the women-only social media app Giggle for Girls for excluding her, with the Federal Court finding this was unlawful indirect discrimination under the Sex Discrimination Act … The case has gone to appeal and the Sex Discrimination Commissioner has intervened as a friend of the court, submitting that sex is “not a biological concept referring to whether a person at birth had male or female physical traits”… When Labor’s Susan Ryan introduced the Sex Discrimination Bill in 1983…the law was to give effect to the United Nations convention on the elimination of discrimination against women. These protections were grounded in biology and were designed to secure equality for women as a group … In 2013, the act was amended and the definitions of man and woman were quietly repealed to accommodate protections for gender identity. Where the law once spelled out that a man was a member of the male sex and a woman was a member of the female sex, the federal parliament now said those words should take their “ordinary meaning”. It was presented as a technical change, but it was nothing of the sort. It was a Trojan horse wheeled inside the walls of the law. The effect has been to light a fire that now burns the city of meaning to the ground … This has opened a door for the commissioner to argue that even the act’s pregnancy provisions - protections written precisely for biological women because of their capacity to conceive - should be read as extending to trans women … In dissolving the boundary between sex and gender, the commissioner is engaging in institutional betrayal. The office created to defend women now seeks to erase them … The commissioner seems determined to etch a dangerous precedent into law. Its staff may feel on the right side of history, but they are morally adrift. They are defending a lie - and no law or court can make it true." – Chris Uhlmann, The Australian

>>23800933 ‘Trying to silence me’: Outspoken doctor sacked amid transgender legal battle – Queensland child psychiatrist Dr Jillian Spencer has been issued a termination notice while multiple court cases over her suspension and whistleblower protection remain unresolved. Dr Spencer, who publicly criticised “trans-affirming” treatments for minors, said her dismissal came a month before an independent review into puberty blockers and hormones - chaired by Professor Ruth Vine - was due to report to Health Minister Tim Nicholls. “They are jumping the gun without waiting to establish whether the whistleblower claim is true,” she said, accusing Queensland Health of trying to silence her. Her dismissal letter cited breaches of the code of conduct for speaking publicly about her concerns. Graeme Haycroft of the Red Union Support Hub called the sacking “a miscarriage of justice.” Dr Spencer said she stood by her warnings that gender-affirming care “is harmful to children” and vowed to keep fighting in court.

>>23800947 Video: Queensland Health forced to pause Dr Jillian Spencer dismissal as she takes legal action over political discrimination – Suspended child psychiatrist Dr Jillian Spencer has won a temporary reprieve from termination as the Supreme Court of Queensland reviews whether her dismissal breached constitutional and human rights protections. Dr Spencer, who was stood down for criticising gender-affirming care for minors, argues Queensland Health ignored her freedom of political expression and obligations under the Human Rights Act when moving to fire her. Backed by the Human Rights Law Alliance, she claims she was punished for expressing medically grounded dissent, not misconduct. Dr Spencer continues to await a ruling on her separate whistleblower application, pending for 17 months. She told Sky News the stay “gives me a fighting chance,” insisting her stance against early “social transition” and puberty blockers was about child safety and evidence-based practice. “This is about medical integrity and the right to speak freely,” she said.

#43 - Part 48

The Transgender Agenda - Australia and Worldwide - Part 2

>>23800976 Dr Jillian Spencer’s Queensland Health termination frozen amid legal battle – Queensland Health has paused its bid to sack Dr Jillian Spencer, the child psychiatrist suspended for questioning “transgender activism” at the Queensland Children’s Hospital. Her lawyers at Meridian Lawyers filed for a Supreme Court judicial review, arguing acting clinical director Brendan Hoad failed to consider her freedom of political communication and Human Rights Act protections before issuing a termination notice. Dr Spencer said she was duty-bound by the Hippocratic oath to oppose unsafe treatments, claiming puberty blockers and early affirmation “don’t have evidence of benefit and have serious harms.” She maintains doctors must prioritise patients over institutional loyalty. Other psychiatrists have backed her stance, citing the UK’s Cass Review and a Family Court ruling where Judge Andrew Strum criticised Australia’s gender-affirming guidelines. “I thought I was doing everyone a favour by speaking up,” she said. The case will return to court next year alongside her pending whistleblower claim.

>>23801001 Video: Queensland Health puberty blocker, hormone treatment ban unlawful, court rules – The Queensland Supreme Court has ruled the state government’s puberty blocker ban unlawful, finding Queensland Health failed to conduct proper consultation before issuing the January 28 directive. Justice Peter Callaghan SC said the 22-minute meeting used to justify the ban “had every hallmark” of a predetermined decision. Within hours, Health Minister Tim Nicholls reissued the statewide prohibition under his own authority, citing the “public interest.” The case, brought by the mother of a transgender child, accused the government of treating minors as “political footballs.” Advocacy groups, including the LGBTI Legal Service, condemned the renewed ban, saying it lacked medical evidence and excluded expert input. Mr Nicholls said the government’s position “remains unchanged,” insisting treatment must be “grounded on solid evidence.” The directive will stand until completion of Professor Ruth Vine’s independent review into stage one and two hormone therapies, due by November 30.

>>23805280 Queensland education authority offers ‘they/them’ pronouns for kindergarten kids – Parents in Queensland have been asked to specify “they/them” pronouns for their four- and five-year-olds on kindergarten consent forms, prompting criticism from psychiatrists who warned the practice could harm children’s development. The Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority recorded 46 “they/them” nominations this year, though many parents expressed shock at the requirement. Psychiatrists Andrew Amos, Philip Morris and Jillian Spencer said the policy “damages the child” and risks “indoctrination” into ideology. Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek said the QCAA is independent and introduced the measure to “foster inclusion”, but critics argue it confuses children and pressures teachers to comply with gender ideology.

#43 - Part 49

AUKUS Security Pact and Nuclear Submarine Program - Part 1

>>23554534 Former US, Australian defence heads reunite to urge Trump to stick with AUKUS - Former US defence secretary Jim Mattis, ex-Australian defence minister Marise Payne, former UK chief of defence staff Nicholas Carter and ex-US naval chief Gary Roughead have urged the Trump administration not to abandon AUKUS. Writing in Foreign Affairs, they warned that cancelling or weakening the pact “would do the work of Washington’s adversaries,” stressing its deterrent effect on China and Russia. The essay admitted the deal’s industrial costs but argued “these costs are worth the benefits.” The Pentagon review, led by Elbridge Colby, is fuelling fears Trump may retreat from the Biden-era pact.

>>23554542 Don’t Abandon AUKUS: The Case for Recommitting to - and Revitalizing - the Alliance - Gary Roughead, Marise Payne, Nicholas Carter and James Mattis - September 2, 2025 - https://archive.is/20250902160752/https://www.foreignaffairs.com/united-states/dont-abandon-aukus-jim-mattis - https://qalerts.app/?q=Mattis

>>23598204 Video: Government pledges $12b to nuclear submarine precinct ahead of PM’s US visit - The Albanese government will commit $12 billion to the Henderson Defence Precinct in Perth, funding new graving docks for nuclear submarine maintenance under AUKUS. The move comes as US officials, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, push Australia to lift defence spending from 2 per cent to 3.5 per cent of GDP. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will unveil the investment with Defence Minister Richard Marles before travelling to New York for the UN General Assembly and a long-delayed meeting with President Donald Trump. The site will support submarine docking, shipbuilding, and create more than 10,000 local jobs.

>>23598213 Rubio quietly signals U.S. won’t sink submarine deal with Australia - U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has privately assured Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles that the AUKUS nuclear submarine pact will proceed, despite a Pentagon review ordered by policy chief Elbridge Colby. The reassurance followed concerns President Donald Trump was unfamiliar with the deal, though Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth later confirmed his support. Analysts say abandoning AUKUS would damage U.S. credibility and weaken Indo-Pacific security. While timelines may be adjusted, the core commitment to supply Virginia-class submarines remains, with Australia also investing $3 billion in U.S. shipyards and pursuing Ghost Shark underwater attack drones.

>>23603388 Richard Marles claims defence spending is 2.8pc of GDP under NATO standards as Anthony Albanese pitches Donald Trump meeting - Defence Minister Richard Marles has argued Australia’s defence spending is 2.8 per cent of GDP when measured under NATO standards, which include pensions, intelligence and infrastructure, as the government faces U.S. pressure to lift funding to 3.5 per cent. The claim came as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a $12 billion expansion of Perth’s Henderson shipyards and prepared for a potential first meeting with President Donald Trump in New York. The Opposition and analysts dismissed the government figures as “semantics” and “magical thinking,” saying the increase will not materially change GDP share.

>>23617346 Video: King backs AUKUS, Ukraine in message to Trump - King Charles has urged US President Donald Trump to treat the AUKUS submarine pact as a vital alliance, directly linking it to Britain’s historic partnership with the US and Australia during two world wars. At a Windsor Castle state banquet, the King also called for stronger US support for Ukraine against Russia. His intervention comes as the Pentagon reviews AUKUS, with sceptics like US defence Under Secretary Elbridge Colby fuelling uncertainty. Trump praised the UK relationship in glowing terms but avoided concrete defence commitments. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky publicly thanked the King for his “steadfast support.”

#43 - Part 50

AUKUS Security Pact and Nuclear Submarine Program - Part 2

>>23675053 AUKUS survives Pentagon review, with US submarine sales to proceed – Nikkei Asia reports that the Trump administration will proceed with the AUKUS defence pact, maintaining plans to sell three Virginia-class submarines to Australia from 2032. The outlet says a Pentagon review, led by Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby, found the project consistent with President Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda. Sources told Nikkei the review will conclude before Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s October 20 White House visit. The process examined industrial capacity and Australia’s potential role in a Taiwan conflict. Analysts say AUKUS remains “low-risk” for Washington, though the US may pressure Canberra to lift defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP.

>>23708599 Video: US Senate committee questions Trump's Pentagon nominee John Noh over AUKUS review – Donald Trump’s nominee for assistant secretary of defence for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, John Noh, told senators the AUKUS submarine pact may need “commonsense” adjustments to make it more “sustainable.” Noh avoided specifics, citing an ongoing Pentagon review led by Under Secretary Elbridge Colby and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, but said both nations could “strengthen pillar one” of AUKUS. Senators from both parties criticised delays and questioned the message to Australia amid tariffs and pressure to raise defence spending. Noh confirmed the review would conclude by December and must consider shipbuilding limits, with the US needing to raise production from 1.2 to 2.33 submarines per year to meet commitments.

>>23742317 Australia promises Trump defence revamp, dangles $1b AUKUS carrot – Australia is seeking to ease US pressure over military spending by pledging a major defence overhaul next year and offering a $1 billion AUKUS instalment ahead of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s Washington visit. Defence Minister Richard Marles told US officials the National Defence Strategy, due in April, would sketch future spending, while Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy confirmed another AUKUS payment was imminent. The Trump administration wants allies to lift defence spending to 3 per cent of GDP; Australia currently spends just over 2 per cent of GDP and argues that using broader “NATO-style” accounting — which includes infrastructure, veterans’ costs and logistics — its real outlay already surpasses the UK’s. But analysts say Canberra is “playing for time,” while the government insists its AUKUS commitments demonstrate strategic alignment with US-led Indo-Pacific security.

>>23748341 Video: AUKUS expected to stay intact as Trump touts ‘great relationship’ with Albanese – The AUKUS submarine pact is expected to remain unchanged following the Trump administration’s review, with the White House describing a “great relationship” between Donald Trump and Anthony Albanese ahead of their Oval Office meeting. A US official said there were “no conversations” about withdrawing from AUKUS and praised Australia as a priority ally. The review, led by defence undersecretary Elbridge Colby, continues amid concerns over US submarine production rates. Albanese’s visit will also focus on securing a critical minerals deal to counter China’s dominance, with Ambassador Kevin Rudd saying AUKUS is “powering ahead.”

>>23755125 Trump ends AUKUS uncertainty with firm backing for Albanese – Donald Trump has ended speculation over the future of the $368 billion AUKUS pact, pledging the US will go “full steam ahead” with the deal during his first face-to-face meeting with Anthony Albanese. Trump confirmed Australia will receive its promised nuclear-powered submarines and dismissed concerns raised by a Pentagon review led by Elbridge Colby. US Navy Secretary John Phelan said Washington was working to “improve” and “clarify” AUKUS. Trump praised Australia’s military strength and said the partnership deters China but predicted no conflict over Taiwan. Canberra has already invested $1.6 billion in AUKUS infrastructure, with US and UK submarines to begin rotating through HMAS Stirling from 2027. The pact also expands cooperation in cyber, undersea, and advanced defence technologies.

#43 - Part 51

AUKUS Security Pact and Nuclear Submarine Program - Part 3

>>23759574 ‘Here for the long term’: US seeks to entrench presence in Australia under AUKUS – Senior US officials are expected to seek ongoing use of HMAS Stirling naval base in Western Australia under a Pentagon review of the AUKUS pact, deepening American military access as it prepares for potential conflict with China. The review, led by Elbridge Colby, may formalise a rotational presence of up to four US nuclear-powered submarines and 1,000 personnel from 2027, under Submarine Rotational Force–West. The base’s proximity to the Indian Ocean gives the US strategic reach beyond Hawaii. Defence expert Mike Pezzullo said the US “has long coveted the idea of an operating location like this and they are not going to want to give it up.”

>>23759580 Defence orders brutal budget cuts as AUKUS and frigate costs soar – Defence chiefs have ordered sweeping cost reductions as the soaring expense of AUKUS submarines and Hunter-class frigates strains the budget. Air Force Chief Stephen Chappell has directed reviews to “mitigate overspending,” including delaying projects, cutting maintenance, and reducing aircraft flying hours, while Chief of Defence David Johnston has capped reservist workdays at 150. The navy’s frigates now cost $5.9bn per ship, rising to $9bn with design costs, and AUKUS will consume $3.3bn this year alone. Analysts warn the austerity drive risks “sacrificing existing capabilities” to fund future ones, leaving Australia’s defence readiness dangerously stretched despite government claims of record spending.

>>23771439 Donald Trump’s AUKUS nod echoed as new sub welcomed – The USS Utah, the 28th Virginia-class submarine, has been christened in Connecticut, with senior US officials reaffirming the strength of AUKUS and the deepening of defence ties with Australia. Congressman Joe Courtney said the partnership was helping expand America’s submarine industrial base and create jobs, adding that “our closest allies — Australia and the United Kingdom — are locking arms with us as never before.” He cited Donald Trump’s recent endorsement of AUKUS as validation of billions invested in the sector. US Navy Secretary John Phelan called the Virginia-class fleet “the undersea workhorse,” essential to deterrence and maintaining open sea lanes.

>>23788879 New defence committee to cast ‘unblinking eye’ over AUKUS – Parliament is set to create a powerful new defence committee to oversee the AUKUS submarine program, ADF operations and classified strategy. The Coalition will support the bill after previously blocking it, with Opposition defence spokesman Angus Taylor proposing that membership be limited to MPs who back higher defence spending and AUKUS. Former minister Andrew Hastie said the committee would cast “an unblinking eye” on the $368bn program and improve accountability beyond “surface level” scrutiny. Defence Minister Richard Marles and Assistant Minister Peter Khalil said the body, modelled on the intelligence committee, would strengthen transparency while protecting national security.

>>23809042 China’s military build-up demands response, Australia defence minister says – Australia’s Defence Minister Richard Marles has warned that China’s “biggest military build-up in the world today”, carried out “without strategic reassurance”, demands a response from other nations. Speaking at a navy conference in Sydney, he said Australia’s sea trade routes through the South and East China Seas are becoming “increasingly risky”. Marles outlined plans for a “more capable, lethal, long-range navy”, including acquiring frigates from Japan, developing submarine drones with US company Anduril, and expanding Indian Ocean shipyards. His remarks come after a Chinese fighter jet dropped flares near an Australian patrol aircraft, amid growing tension as Australia advances its AUKUS nuclear submarine program with the US and UK.

>>23814436 Republicans lash out at Pentagon officials over treatment of Australia – Republican frustration with the Pentagon has intensified during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, with several senators accusing defence policy leaders of undermining President Donald Trump’s agenda and mishandling Australia’s interests. Senators Roger Wicker, Tom Cotton and Dan Sullivan criticised undersecretary Elbridge Colby’s policy unit for “slow-walking” Trump-backed initiatives, including AUKUS, a brief pause in Ukraine assistance and force reductions in Romania. They said the Pentagon’s review of AUKUS created doubt for Australia despite Trump declaring the pact “full steam ahead”. Austin Dahmer, nominated for a senior strategy role, defended the review but acknowledged ongoing concerns. The exchanges underscored bipartisan congressional support for AUKUS and frustration with internal Pentagon processes.

#43 - Part 52

AUKUS Security Pact and Nuclear Submarine Program - Part 4

>>23814460 AUKUS subs to receive US combat ‘brains’ – The AUKUS partnership has advanced with a new deal to install the US-designed AN/BYG-1 combat system on future Australian and British nuclear-powered submarines. BAE Systems will sign the agreement with General Dynamics Mission Systems, Raytheon Australia and Thales, ensuring the system - already used on Collins-class and US submarines - is integrated into the SSN-AUKUS boats built in Adelaide and the UK. Officials said the software will unify weapons and sensor controls and strengthen interoperability. Navy chief Admiral Mark Hammond said Australia is “well on track” to operate nuclear submarines, with Australian crews serving on Virginia-class boats. Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy confirmed a $34m battery contract for PMB Defence and defended acquiring Israeli technology for the ADF.

>>23819495 USS Vermont arrives in WA for maintenance – USS Vermont, a US Virginia-class submarine, has arrived at HMAS Stirling for a major Submarine Maintenance Period, marking another step in Australia’s plan to operate and sustain nuclear-powered submarines. Thirteen Royal Australian Navy personnel are embedded in the 134-strong crew after extensive US training. This year’s program is larger and more complex than the 2024 effort, with Australian teams taking greater responsibility ahead of Submarine Rotational Force - West in 2027. ASC (the Australian Submarine Corporation), US shipyard staff and international trainees are supporting the work, which officials say strengthens nuclear stewardship and deepens AUKUS cooperation. Vice Admiral Jonathan Mead, Director-General of the Australian Submarine Agency, said the visit “strengthens our ability to operate and sustain nuclear-powered submarines in Australia,” underscoring rising sovereign capability.

>>23828055 Pentagon backs AUKUS amid criticism its review has upset Australia – The Pentagon says its long-running review of the AUKUS pact is in its final stages and now agrees the agreement delivers “significant benefit” for US strategy in the Indo-Pacific. Senior adviser Alexander Velez-Green told a Senate hearing the review provided new insight into submarine production capacity and confirmed the pact aligns with Donald Trump’s priorities. Republican senators again criticised the secrecy of the process, saying it had unsettled Australia and cast doubt on US commitment. Pentagon concerns had focused on how Australia would use nuclear-powered submarines in a potential conflict with China. Officials now say AUKUS remains “in our interest”, as Australia prepares another $US1 billion payment to bolster the US industrial base. Experts argue the pact is too strategically important to fail.

>>23835180 ‘Poison Pill’ AUKUS sceptics rolled inside Pentagon, says Kurt Campbell – Former US deputy secretary of state Kurt Campbell says Pentagon officials who tried to derail AUKUS have been “rolled”, with the ongoing review now expected to endorse the pact with only minor adjustments. He said Undersecretary of Defence Elbridge Colby mishandled the review and sowed uncertainty until Donald Trump forcefully reaffirmed support for AUKUS during talks with Anthony Albanese. Campbell described “strategic disarray” inside the Pentagon amid purges and resignations, but said Australian lobbying by Richard Marles and Kevin Rudd helped neutralise internal opposition. He argued Colby’s approach had “hurt him politically” and that key policy ideas – restricting Ukraine arms, cutting AUKUS – had been “snipped at the bud”. Campbell said negative media coverage overlooked “remarkable progress” on AUKUS over the past five years.

#43 - Part 53

Australia / China Tensions - Part 1

>>23542594 Fears China will try to gatecrash Pacific Islands Forum through embassy - Australian and Pacific officials fear China will use its Honiara embassy to influence next week’s Pacific Islands Forum, despite a ban on dialogue and development partners imposed by Solomon Islands to exclude Taiwan. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will attend amid tensions, with Penny Wong and others warning that sidelining longstanding partners such as the EU, UK and World Bank denies vital funding. Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jnr said Chinese access would “undermine trust,” while Tuvalu’s Prime Minister Feleti Teo speculated Beijing drove the exclusions. The US ambassador will attend on the sidelines. Beijing pressured PIF participants to alter last year’s communique, resulting in the deletion of Taiwan’s partner status, recognised since 1992.

>>23542657 Dan Andrews, Bob Carr guests of honour in Chinese victory parade - Former premiers Dan Andrews and Bob Carr will join Xi Jinping, Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin at a Tiananmen Square parade marking 80 years since Japan’s defeat, with Beijing hailing them as “esteemed guests.” Carr defended his attendance as recognition of China’s WWII role, saying its resistance shielded Australia from Japanese assault, while critics warned both men risk serving Chinese propaganda. Chinese ambassador to Australia Xiao Qian recently invoked wartime ties to argue “Taiwan’s return to China must not be denied.” Analysts highlighted Andrews’ Belt and Road links and Carr’s advocacy for closer ties with Beijing. Former ambassador Geoff Raby said Australia must weigh recognition of China’s V-Day celebrations against Australia’s vital relationship with Japan.

>>23542705 OPINION: Beijing invited me to this special celebration. Here’s why I’m happy to go - "Australians in 1945 would have seen China’s victory over Japan as a win for humanity… worth commemorating… It’s why I accepted an invitation from the Chinese consul-general to attend the 80th celebration of their victory, travelling to Beijing at my own expense. Right-wing commentators criticise me for going because Russian President Vladimir Putin will be in attendance. This comes from the same Trump-friendly media that found acceptable Donald Trump welcoming Putin onto American soil, even as Putin intensified his warfare against Ukraine… What attracts me to this celebration… is the attendance of big delegations from nine countries in South-East Asia… another opportunity to share views about how we accommodate a reality none of us has the power to stop anyway: China’s emergence as a great power - and the need to avoid conflict between it and the US." - Bob Carr, The Age

>>23542719 Taiwan slams China military parade attended by ex-premiers Carr, Andrews - Taiwan has accused Beijing of using a military parade, attended by former Australian premiers Bob Carr and Daniel Andrews, to push “a deliberate distortion of wartime history” and undermine the island’s sovereignty. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Australia said the event was “a clear attempt to advance (China’s) contemporary territorial claims over Taiwan,” stressing the People’s Republic of China “has never governed Taiwan.” Carr defended his attendance as marking shared WWII history, while Andrews remained silent. Foreign policy experts warned both risk serving as “organs of the Chinese propaganda machine.”

>>23542738 Opinion: Why are Carr and Andrews legitimising China’s axis of authoritarianism? - "In its typically authoritarian way, China… is commemorating the 80th anniversary of World War II’s end with a big military parade… Xi is basking in the moment. Why then are former Victorian Labor Premier Daniel Andrews and former NSW Premier and federal Foreign Minister Bob Carr joining the festivities?… Legitimising the Communist view of World War II strengthens Xi Jinping’s regime internationally and with China’s own population. Domestically, it enhances Xi’s ability to stifle internal dissent… Most importantly of all, China is concentrating on projecting its future leading international role through this celebration… This century’s main threat to America and its partners is the rapidly emerging axis between China and Russia, and their associated outriders like North Korea, Iran, and Belarus… Andrews and Carr should reconsider their decisions to attend." - John Bolton, Australian Financial Review

#43 - Part 54

Australia / China Tensions - Part 2

>>23542771 Australian ambassador to China to miss Xi Jinping military parade - Australia’s ambassador to China, Scott Dewar, will deliberately skip Xi Jinping’s massive military parade in Beijing, instead speaking in Guangzhou, in what officials called a “very conscious calibration.” Canberra is downgrading its representation to defence and political staff, signalling unease with the People’s Liberation Army’s displays of power and Xi’s use of World War II history to justify global ambitions. Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong-un and Iran’s Masoud Pezeshkian will attend, alongside ex-premiers Bob Carr and Daniel Andrews, who critics warn have inserted themselves into a propaganda exercise.

>>23542782 COMMENTARY: China’s WWII victory parade is a supreme fiction - "This week the Chinese Communist Party will orchestrate a grand military parade in Tiananmen Square… Ostensibly a tribute to wartime heroism, this display is, in truth, a monumental distortion of history… At the heart of this charade lies the falsehood that the CCP was the principal fighting force against Japanese aggression during the war. This claim is a brazen lie. It was the Nationalist government, under Chiang Kai-shek, that bore the brunt of Japan’s assault… Mao focused not on liberation or resistance but on quietly building his army… Today’s CCP regime continues to weaponise historical memory… The entire upcoming parade is a political theatre, a state-forged spectacle masquerading as remembrance… To attend this spectacle is to legitimise a fraud… What will unfold on September 3 is not remembrance but propaganda — an insult draped in flags and uniforms, parading not history but deception." - Miles Yu, director of the China Centre at the Hudson Institute, The Australian

>>23542802 Extraordinary engagement:Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews meets with Xi Jinping- (Video) Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews has met Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of Beijing’s grand military parade marking 80 years since the end of World War II. Andrews, joined by former NSW premier Bob Carr, was among the 10,000-strong crowd in Tiananmen Square. The event, showcasing China’s newest hypersonic missiles, tanks and stealth fighters, featured Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korea’s Kim Jong-un and other authoritarian leaders. Analyst Neil Thomas said the attendance of Carr and Andrews would likely bolster Beijing’s narrative that China was the decisive force against Japan, calling the line-up a “rogues’ gallery”.

>>23542811 Video: Dan Andrews shakes Xi's hand at Beijing parade - Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews shook hands with Chinese President Xi Jinping and First Lady Peng Liyuan before Beijing’s vast military parade in Tiananmen Square. Andrews later appeared in an official group photograph alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un. Andrews, attending in a “personal capacity,” has complicated Canberra’s diplomatic stance as the Albanese government distances itself from the event. The parade also drew Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian and Myanmar’s junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, while Australia’s ambassador Scott Dewar stayed away, signalling a deliberate diplomatic snub of Xi’s display of military power.

>>23542833 Video: Dan Andrews poses alongside Xi, Putin and Kim Jong-un - Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews appeared in an official group photo with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong-un at Beijing’s World War II anniversary parade. While former NSW premier Bob Carr declined to attend, calling the event “Soviet-style,” Andrews was the only Australian politician present, a move condemned by Coalition MPs as making him a “pawn” of the Chinese regime. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese noted Australia had reduced its representation, with no minister or ambassador present. Critics said Andrews’ attendance bolstered Beijing’s propaganda, while Carr instead chose to address two Chinese international relations think tanks.

>>23542853 Carr skips military parade, as Andrews joins Xi on red carpet - Former NSW premier Bob Carr declined to attend Beijing’s “Soviet-style” military parade, instead choosing to address two Chinese international relations think tanks and join separate indoor commemorations. Carr said he opted for “meetings with delegations” over the parade, which featured Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong-un. His decision left former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews as the only Australian politician present, after controversially signing Victoria up to China’s Belt and Road agreement. Opposition home affairs spokesman Andrew Hastie labelled Andrews a “nice little pawn” of China’s propaganda effort.

#43 - Part 55

Australia / China Tensions - Part 3

>>23542869 Video: Xi Jinping greets former Victorian Premier at start of China military parade - Former Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has been personally greeted by China's Xi Jinping at the start of a massive military parade in China. - 9 News Australia

>>23542877 Dan Andrews joins world leaders at China military parade - China stages a massive military parade in Beijing to commemorate the anniversary of the end of World War II, featuring 10,000 soldiers and modern military equipment including stealth bombers and new tanks. Former Victorian Premier Dan Andrews and ex-NSW Premier Bob Carr attend alongside world leaders including Vladimir Putin and Iran's leader, with Andrews receiving prominent treatment in the ceremony. Chinese President Xi Jinping delivers a speech emphasising China's role in ending WWII and its current military strength. - 7NEWS Australia

>>23542904 High-tech weaponry and China's military might on full display - China's military might was on full display at a Victory Parade hosted by Xi Jinping in Beijing. Hypersonic weapons, underwater drones, and ballistic missiles were rolled out to a crowd that included Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong-Un. Former China correspondent Nicole Johnston says China is sending a clear message to the West about its position in the world and its desire to create a system of global governments that is not centred on the United States. - ABC News (Australia)

>>23542914 Donald J. Trump Truth - "The big question to be answered is whether or not President Xi of China will mention the massive amount of support and “blood” that The United States of America gave to China in order to help it to secure its FREEDOM from a very unfriendly foreign invader. Many Americans died in China’s quest for Victory and Glory. I hope that they are rightfully Honored and Remembered for their Bravery and Sacrifice! May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration. Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America. PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP"

>>23546765 Video: No security briefing before Andrews’ Beijing trip where he posed alongside Putin, Kim Jong-un - Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews did not seek advice from the federal government or DFAT before attending Beijing’s military parade, where he shook Xi Jinping’s hand and appeared in an official photo with Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong-un and other authoritarian leaders. His attendance, condemned by former Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and labelled a propaganda coup by critics, shocked ministers in Canberra. Bob Carr skipped the “Soviet-style” parade, opting to speak at two Chinese international relations think tanks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stressed Andrews was not representing Australia, as the government deliberately kept its diplomatic presence low, represented by the embassy’s defence attache.

>>23546788 Labor figures - but not PM - slam ‘traitor’ Dan Andrews’ China propaganda appearance - Daniel Andrews’ handshake with Xi Jinping and presence on a parade podium near Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin has ignited anger within Labor. Former federal MP Michael Danby, who once chaired parliament’s foreign affairs and defence committee, called the image of Andrews with Xi “disgusting” and “an embarrassment to all Australians,” noting that Andrews and Bob Carr had “never a word for the poor Uighur Muslim people, and never a word for the poor Tibetans.” Quoting Shakespeare, Danby declared: “Shame, shame, eternal shame.” Andrews did not consult DFAT and kept Albanese, his former flatmate, uninformed of his plans. The Prime Minister sidestepped questions, noting a Coalition minister had attended the previous anniversary 10 years ago, as critics warned Andrews’ actions embarrassed Labor and aided Chinese messaging.

#43 - Part 56

Australia / China Tensions - Part 4

>>23546804 Daniel Andrews defends China visit as deputy premier rebukes him for photo with dictators - Deputy Premier Ben Carroll rebuked former premier Daniel Andrews for appearing in a photo with Xi Jinping, Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong-un and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, saying it was “not worth it” for business interests and “not something I would have done.” Andrews defended his attendance at Beijing’s parade as an opportunity to meet regional leaders, while stressing his condemnation of Putin’s war in Ukraine and Iran’s attacks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese distanced himself, saying no minister would have considered going. Ukrainian community leaders urged Andrews to apologise, calling his appearance an “appalling lack of judgment.”

>>23546828 Video: ‘Filling his pockets’: Resurfaced footage shows former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews praising China ahead of ‘parade of dictators’ - Newly resurfaced March 2025 footage shows Daniel Andrews praising China’s economic growth and renewable energy transition in an interview with state-run CGTN, saying Beijing did not receive the credit it deserved. Weeks later he attended Xi Jinping’s military parade, where he was photographed with Xi, Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un. Former Morrison government press secretary Andrew Carswell called Andrews’ presence a “colossal error of judgement” and claimed he would use the photo “to drive business… filling his pockets.” The parade displayed hypersonic missiles and ICBM launchers, while Prime Minister Albanese stressed Andrews was not representing Australia.

>>23546844 Video: Former premier of Victoria, Australia: China's renewable energy drive deserves greater global recognition - "Ahead of the 2025 China Development Forum, Daniel Andrews, former premier of Victoria, Australia, sat down with CGTN's Cui Yingjie in Beijing for an exclusive interview, sharing his insights on China's high-quality development and its role in the global green transition. As a reformer who spearheaded Victoria's shift away from fossil fuels, he said, "Formal Australia-China cooperation on decarbonizing heavy industries and advancing wind and solar technologies must be our next priority - this isn't just about our nations' futures, but the health of the planet." He praised China's new quality productive forces as a transformative model, stressing that China's progress in renewable energy deserves far greater global recognition. He also pointed out that while the United States remains obsessed with "erratic and nonsensical tariff games," Australia and China are forging a new path toward global sustainability through pragmatic collaboration." - CGTN

>>23554707 Access and influence: how ‘Statesman Dan’ is getting rich in China - Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews has been praised in Chinese state accounts of business meetings for pledging to “spare no effort” in promoting ties, inviting delegations to Melbourne and calling himself an “old friend of the Chinese people.” Records show Andrews and his private business partner Marty Mei met with senior Chinese think tanks in 2024, lauding co-operation in trade, education and tourism. Since leaving politics, Andrews has established Wedgetail Partners, operating from his Mulgrave home, with a 90 per cent stake held through Glencairn Street, a company of which he is the sole director and shareholder. Labor sources say his Beijing parade appearance will strengthen his growing China-focused business.

>>23554753 ‘Deeply honoured’ Daniel Andrews spruiks Xi’s parade in People’s Daily - Former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews was quoted in China’s People’s Daily as “deeply honoured” to attend Xi Jinping’s military parade, hailing China’s WWII role as having “global significance.” He defended his trip as an opportunity to meet Xi, John Key, Helen Clark and Anwar Ibrahim, while claiming his record shows opposition to Putin and Iran. Anthony Albanese distanced himself, stressing no government representative attended, while critics in business and academia called Andrews’ actions “bizarre” and opportunistic. Sinologist Geremie Barme labelled attendees “useless idiots,” contrasting with Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan, who said Andrews’ standing in China was “good for Victoria” as he expands his China-focused consultancy.

#43 - Part 57

Australia / China Tensions - Part 5

>>23554835 China praises Daniel Andrews for defending ‘peace and justice’ but accuses Australia of ‘undermining stability - Beijing hailed former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews as an example of “defending historical memory” after he joined Xi Jinping’s parade and a medal ceremony, praising him in official media. At the same time, the PLA condemned Australia, the US, Canada and the Philippines for conducting a freedom-of-navigation exercise in the South China Sea with HMAS Brisbane, calling it a threat to “peace and stability.” Canberra stressed the patrol upheld international law. ALP president Wayne Swan criticised Andrews for defying efforts to downgrade Australian representation, while Penny Wong and Richard Marles met their Japanese counterparts in Tokyo, stressing Australia and Japan's shared “values and trust” amid growing concerns over Chinese militarism.

>>23554852 Video: Penny Wong cautions Daniel Andrews on China visit after meetings in Japan - Foreign Minister Penny Wong urged former Victorian premier Daniel Andrews to be “mindful” of the message he sent by attending Xi Jinping’s military parade with Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un. She stressed Australia deliberately limited representation to embassy staff, unlike in 2015 when a Coalition government minister attended the same anniversary event. Speaking in Tokyo after 2+2 talks, Wong and Defence Minister Richard Marles highlighted concerns about China’s military build-up, closer ties with Russia and North Korea, and the need to strengthen partnerships with Japan. Marles announced progress on a $10 billion deal for 11 Mogami-class frigates, with three built in Japan and the rest in Australia.

>>23554868 Chinese embassy officials observe Canberra spy case in court - A woman accused of spying for China in Canberra has pleaded not guilty to foreign interference charges after allegedly receiving $230,000 to gather intelligence on the Guan Yin Citta Buddhist Association, a group banned in China. Court documents allege she collected addresses, financial data and photos for a handler working for China’s Public Security Bureau. Prosecutors seized 2.5 terabytes of data from nine devices. The ACT Chief Magistrate extended a suppression order on her identity, citing risks of prejudice, as Chinese embassy officials quietly observed proceedings. Police said she travelled repeatedly to China and amassed hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of luxury goods, including high-end handbags “that were too numerous to practicably count.”

>>23559317 Video: China criticises Canadian, Australian warships transiting Taiwan Strait – China’s military said it shadowed and warned the Canadian frigate HMCS Ville de Québec and Australian destroyer HMAS Brisbane as they transited the Taiwan Strait, denouncing the passage as “trouble-making and provocation” that raised security risks. Australia’s Defence Department said Brisbane’s September 6–7 transit was routine and in line with international law, alongside the Canadian ship, and vowed to keep exercising freedom of navigation under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. Canada said Ville de Québec was deployed under Operation Horizon to promote Indo-Pacific stability. Taiwan’s defence ministry said it monitored the passage to ensure security, while Beijing reiterated its claim that the strait forms part of its territorial waters.

>>23562541 Beijing has post-parade tantrum at Australia over ‘incomprehensible’ Japan ties - China erupted over Penny Wong and Richard Marles’ Tokyo meeting with their Japanese counterparts, denouncing Australia’s strengthened partnership with Japan as “stirring up tensions” and “provoking China.” A China Daily editorial accused Canberra of parroting US “playbook” rhetoric, citing joint statements on Taiwan and Chinese activity in Japanese waters. Beijing also condemned Australia’s role in freedom of navigation exercises with the US, Canada and the Philippines and HMAS Brisbane’s Taiwan Strait transit, calling Canberra’s stance “incomprehensible.” The paper urged Anthony Albanese to heed Paul Keating’s warning that “Taiwan is not a vital Australian interest.” Wong and Marles also met Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba shortly before he announced his resignation, with Japan’s ruling LDP preparing to select his successor.

#43 - Part 58

Australia / China Tensions - Part 6

>>23562544 Beijing says no’: Solomon Islands MP reveals how China pulls the strings - Anthony Albanese has arrived in Honiara for the Pacific Islands Forum amid claims that Solomon Islands Prime Minister Jeremiah Manele has acted under Beijing’s direction. United Party leader Peter Kenilorea says Manele froze him out after “the Chinese ambassador told him not to take me” into government. He was told he must “leave [his] party and give a press conference praising Beijing” and travel to China. Another MP, Daniel Waneoroa, was reportedly summoned by the Chinese embassy and “given the conditions on what he must do,” leading him to quit the pro-Taiwan Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China. Critics warn Beijing is using such tactics to sideline Taiwan and cement control.

>>23567080 Video: Albanese’s $500m Pacific security deal founders over China clause - Anthony Albanese has been forced to delay signing a $500m, 10-year treaty with Vanuatu after Prime Minister Jotham Napat resisted clauses limiting foreign funding for critical infrastructure, raising concerns it would restrict access to Chinese investment. The setback comes after Australia secured deals with Tuvalu and Nauru granting veto rights over security pacts with countries such as China. Albanese said “good progress” was made and more talks will follow, while critics questioned transparency over the funds. Analysts said the deal is not dead, though reaching consensus in Vanuatu may require compromises, as Canberra also pursues a landmark agreement with Papua New Guinea.

>>23567096 COMMENTARY: Beijing scores a win in Vanuatu, as $500m deal hangs in balance - "Australia has been left bloodied and bruised after its latest diplomatic bout with China in the Pacific… The Albanese government had hoped to seal another win against Beijing by signing a new economic and security agreement with Vanuatu… ‘Some of my ministers and my MPs … feel it requires more discussions, particularly on some of the specific wordings in the agreement when it comes to the critical infrastructure,’ Prime Minister Jotham Napat said… It’s the second time Vanuatu has gotten cold feet over a security-related agreement with Australia… Beijing has won this round. But the competition continues." - Ben Packham, The Australian

>>23567101 OPINION: China and Australia in a high-speed race to win control of the Pacific - "Constantly seeking opportunities to establish itself as the dominant power in the Pacific, Beijing decided to offer a fleet of 27 brand-new vehicles as a gift to Solomon Islands… The Australian response? To announce that it would give the Solomons a fleet of 60 brand-new vehicles… This is the new reality. It’s a daily competition, hand-to-hand diplomatic combat… There are some bidding wars that Australia cannot win… But this is a daily contest in a permanent struggle across a vast expanse of what the regional nations call the Blue Pacific Continent. China is intent on establishing military bases in the Pacific and will not rest until it succeeds. The region that Australia long thought was the least important is now accepted as the most important." - Peter Hartcher, The Age

>>23571707 Palau President Surangel Whipps Jr says ‘we’re already at war’ with China - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced negotiations on a security treaty with Fiji, even as Palau’s President Surangel Whipps Jr declared the Pacific was “already at war” with China. Speaking in Hawaii, Whipps warned the region was “under constant threat” and called for stronger US naval deployments. The Solomon Islands’ decision to ban all PIF partners to exclude Taiwan stirred controversy, while Beijing’s diplomats were seen monitoring delegates. Albanese, chauffeured in a Chinese-made car donated to the host, said discussions with Fiji were at an early stage but emphasised its importance in Pacific security.

>>23571713 Video: Boost for Australia as new security deal with Fiji in the works - Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed Australia and Fiji are negotiating a stronger security agreement, with discussions focused on interoperability, training, and defence cooperation. The talks, revealed at the Pacific Islands Forum, follow the collapse of a $500m deal with Vanuatu over concerns it would block Chinese investment in critical infrastructure. Albanese also pledged $100m to the Pacific Resilience Facility for climate and disaster response, calling it a “promise” to the region. He described Fiji’s Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka as a “good friend” and signalled further announcements with Papua New Guinea next week.

#43 - Part 59

Australia / China Tensions - Part 7

>>23571721 Video: ‘Ghost Sharks’ and a historic defence treaty to China-proof our nearest neighbour - Australia and Papua New Guinea will sign a landmark defence treaty committing both nations to act together against a “common danger,” a shift likened to ANZUS and hailed by the Lowy Institute as a “flagship achievement.” The pact will allow PNG citizens to serve in the Australian Defence Force and gain a pathway to citizenship, marking a historic move away from Port Moresby’s non-aligned stance. Alongside this, Canberra announced a $1.7b contract with US firm Anduril to build Ghost Shark underwater drones in Sydney, boosting autonomous naval capability against China’s growing presence.

>>23590438 China collects fingerprints in Solomon Islands under Mao-era policing initiative - A Chinese-led “community policing” program in Solomon Islands is collecting citizens’ fingerprints and household registration data, drawing comparisons to Mao Zedong’s Cultural Revolution–era “Fengqiao Experience.” Chinese police, working with local officers, have piloted the scheme near Honiara, offering uniforms and equipment in exchange for personal data. Opposition figures Peter Kenilorea Jnr and Celsus Talifilu warned it was an infringement of privacy, likely illegal, and risked silencing dissent. Analysts said Beijing is exporting its surveillance model, undermining rights and overlapping with Australian policing support. The initiative emerged as Pacific Islands leaders met in Honiara, where China’s influence was a dominant theme.

>>23590481 RSIPF and CPLT launch SI-China Police Cooperation Model Community - "The National Crime Prevention Department (NCPD) of the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF), together with the China Police Liaison Team (CPLT), has launched the Fighter One community for the construction of the Solomon Island (SI)-China Police Cooperation Model Communities recently. Inspector Lin Jiamu said its aim is to guide SI communities well based on the Chinese community governance experience – the ‘Fengqiao Experience’ – and to better enhance their capabilities in collecting basic community information, population management, self-protection, and resolving conflicts and disputes on their own so as to obtain a safer community environment. CPLT explained the core of community policing work, population management, trained skills such as filling out household registration cards and population information cards, drawing community maps, and collecting fingerprints and palm prints, and shared the Fengqiao experience of community policing management from China. A leader from the Fighter One community, Mr. Andrew Nihopara, acknowledged the RSIPF and CPLT for coming to their community to guide them. This is extremely important for peace and prosperity." - solomons.gov.sb

>>23590589 Anthony Albanese silent on China in the Solomons after revelations of fingerprinting citizens - Anthony Albanese has refused to raise with Beijing or Honiara revelations that Chinese police are fingerprinting Solomon Islands citizens under a Mao-era “community policing” program, saying he does not “talk about events between countries which don’t involve Australia.” Opposition foreign affairs spokeswoman Michaelia Cash said he was “deliberately ignoring this very concerning development,” while former defence minister Linda Reynolds branded the program “Orwellian.” Solomon Islands figures, including Celsus Talifilu, warned Beijing’s influence is growing through propaganda, fully funded trips for officials, and Chinese Embassy cash programs.

>>23590756 OPINION: China fingerprinting Solomon Islanders to ‘resolve conflicts’ is an egregious intrusion - "Extraordinarily, Beijing thought Solomon Islanders would embrace its intrusive system developed during the Cultural Revolution to keep tabs on troublemakers and dissidents… Collecting citizen’s biodata and forcing them to submit detailed household information to authorities might wash in China but it’s way out of order in a democratic country… The fact that the country’s government just let the Chinese police start collecting villagers’ fingerprints shows it is far too meek and trusting when dealing with the might of the communist state… This sorry story should be a lesson to Solomon Islands…It should also be a warning to other Pacific Island states of the dangers of getting too close to Beijing." – Ben Packham, The Australian

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>>23590858 Five Labor MPs to join Premier in China with five-day trade mission - Premier Jacinta Allan will lead one of the largest Victorian Labor delegations to China, joined by parliamentary secretary Paul Hamer and backbenchers Meng Heang Tak, Mathew Hilakari, Matt Fregon and John Mullahy. The September 14–19 taxpayer-funded mission will focus on trade, education, tourism and innovation, and is viewed as a major political play to consolidate support among Chinese-Australian voters ahead of the 2026 election. Allan’s office said the mission would deliver “a new era of jobs, growth and stability” while consolidating ties with China. The trip follows Daniel Andrews’ six visits as premier, including a secretive official visit to China just months before he announced his retirement as premier.

>>23598223 Jacinta Allan set to meet China’s commerce and education minister with trade-focused mission - Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan will launch a new China strategy in Beijing, seeking to emphasise trade and education while distancing herself from former premier Dan Andrews’s appearance at the 2025 China Victory Day military parade. Allan is scheduled to meet China’s commerce and education ministers on Monday before a five-day tour of Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing and Chengdu focused on services exports, tourism, medtech and clean energy. Analysts cautioned that Beijing often ties political demands to economic offers, but said Allan’s agenda is “overwhelmingly economic.” The trip includes Labor MPs from electorates with large Chinese-Australian communities.

>>23603437 ‘We won’t turn our backs on China’: Jacinta Allan doubles down backing communist superpower - Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has launched her new China strategy in Beijing, declaring “we have not turned our backs to China - we have turned to face it.” She said the plan would make Victoria “the first port of call for Chinese business to innovate and invest” and the “destination of choice” for Chinese visitors and students. The strategy highlights education, clean energy, tourism and public transport, and revives the Hamer Scholarship Program for tertiary study in China, reserving places for Victorian regional students. Allan stressed China is Victoria’s top trading partner and “an old friend with deep historic ties.”

>>23608091 Video: ‘China is relentless’: US diplomat warns Beijing could be influencing PNG treaty delay - Australia and Papua New Guinea are scrambling to finalise a landmark “Pukpuk Treaty” after PNG’s cabinet failed to reach a quorum during independence celebrations, delaying approval before Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s departure. The pact would grant the ADF access to PNG facilities, allow cross-enlistment, and include a mutual defence clause similar to ANZUS. Albanese insisted the deal had “overwhelming support,” while analysts warned of political fallout if it slips. Former US official Kurt Campbell suggested China may be working to obstruct the treaty, saying “China is relentless” in contesting Pacific security initiatives.

>>23608098 COMMENTARY: PNG treaty sign-off no easy task but Anthony Albanese can’t fail again … can he? - “[T]he Pukpuk Treaty would cement PNG as an Australian ally as much as the US or New Zealand, with all the responsibilities that entails. On Tuesday morning,…Prime Minister James Marape’s cabinet had failed to endorse the agreement the previous day, as planned, after it was unable to reach a quorum. Albanese laughed off the cabinet snafu, saying PNG’s ministers were understandably in their electorates celebrating the independence day holiday. It’s true that things don’t always run smoothly in PNG, which is known for good reason as the “land of the unexpected”…[Albanese] tried to maintain an optimistic disposition as things went awry, but was unable to declare with any certainty that the treaty would be signed as planned on Wednesday…Perhaps some of [Marape’s] MPs and ministers see an irony in the nation signing a far-reaching security agreement with its former colonial master on the day after it marks 50 years as an independent state?” – Ben Packham, The Australian

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>>23608107 China playing the ‘great game’ against Australia in the Pacific, Kurt Campbell says – Former US deputy secretary of state Kurt Campbell warned in Canberra that “the great game is afoot” in the Pacific, with Beijing “relentless” in trying to block Australia’s initiatives. He said delays in finalising a PNG defence treaty may reflect Chinese interference, noting such deals are “contested behind the scenes”. Praising Australia for stepping up as US influence fell under Donald Trump, Campbell urged Anthony Albanese to press Trump to re-engage in the Pacific, and said Albanese could also help repair Trump’s rift with India. Campbell backed AUKUS, called for higher Australian defence spending, but stressed “Australia is a sovereign, democratic nation” and should not have terms dictated by Washington.

>>23608146 Victoria’s push for Chinese students puts state on a collision course with Canberra – Premier Jacinta Allan launched Victoria’s first China strategy in a decade, declaring her top priority as “education, education and education.” Speaking in Beijing, she said she would “always say yes to international students,” despite a federal cap of 295,000 places next year. The strategy drops the targets set under Daniel Andrews and instead emphasises cultural connection, diaspora ties and regional Victoria’s role. Allan announced new university and TAFE agreements, plus the revival of $10,000 Hamer Scholarships for regional students to study in China. The plan highlights six key sectors and seeks Chinese investment in public transport and clean energy.

>>23608153 Video: Teaching Mandarin in Victorian schools, student exchange top of China strategy – Premier Jacinta Allan secured an agreement with China’s Education Minister Huai Jinpeng to promote Mandarin teaching in Victorian schools and expand student exchanges across all levels. The memorandum establishes a joint working group meeting annually to drive programs, building on ties revived by Daniel Andrews in 2023. Allan, who has made education central to her China strategy, said it would create more opportunities for Victorian teachers and students to engage with Chinese culture. During the trip she also announced Chinese firm Trina Solar will build a $435m battery farm in Victoria’s Kiewa Valley, while a major Suburban Rail Loop contract looms.

>>23613325 COMMENTARY: Albanese faces embarrassment over PNG deal as China prepares to swing in - “Anthony Albanese came to PNG expecting to ink a momentous ANZUS-style treaty … He left, instead, with a flimsy commitment to sign the treaty at an undisclosed date, after PNG’s cabinet failed to endorse the deal… The fact that this is the second such failure in just over a week is highly embarrassing… Marape must get cabinet agreement for the treaty text, which confirms PNG would be required to ‘act to meet the common danger’ if Australia came under attack… There’s only one potential adversary of consequence this could apply to - the People’s Republic of China… China will also swing into action to try to derail the agreement… The blame for this highly damaging failure rests with Albanese.” – Ben Packham, The Australian

>>23613408 Kevin Rudd calls out China’s Pacific ambition - Kevin Rudd has accused Beijing of being the “principal driving factor” behind disruption in the Indo-Pacific, using tougher language than Anthony Albanese has employed. Speaking via video to a United States Studies Centre event, Rudd said China’s rapid military expansion, including a surface fleet now larger than America’s, and coercive economic behaviour had “deep significance.” He cited the PLA Navy’s circumnavigation of Australia and live-fire drills in the Tasman Sea. Rudd argued Australia must rely on US partnership, intelligence assets, and defence industry ties to counter Beijing, expressing confidence AUKUS will withstand its current review. Former US intelligence chief Avril Haine also urged aggressive joint pushback, highlighting expanded trilateral intelligence cooperation with Japan.

>>23613432 Beijing huffs about Albanese government’s “two-faced policy towards China” - Beijing has accused Canberra of trying to “butter bread on both sides,” with state-run China Daily warning that Australia’s “two-faced policy towards China is not sustainable.” The editorial, timed for the Australia-China High Level Dialogue in Beijing, urged Australia to treat China as a “responsible major country” rather than deepen military ties with the US, Japan, and the Philippines. It criticised AUKUS and recent joint exercises in the South China Sea as “provocative,” while noting Australia continues to benefit from China trade. The paper cautioned that cooperation depends on Canberra ceasing “infringements on [China’s] core interests.”

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>>23617361 PNG to consult Beijing on Australian defence treaty - Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape will send Defence Minister Billy Joseph to Beijing to explain the delayed “Pukpuk Treaty” with Australia, giving China a high-level chance to challenge the pact. Anthony Albanese left Port Moresby without signing the mutual defence treaty, settling instead for a communique after PNG’s cabinet failed to reach quorum. The deal would commit both nations to “act to meet the common danger” if attacked, but critics in PNG warn it threatens sovereignty and risks breaching the constitution. Beijing, already warning against alliances that “target third countries”, is expected to lobby hard. Albanese said cabinet approval in PNG was still pending but insisted Australia is “ready to go.”

>>23617370 COMMENTARY: Albanese’s horror week as the Pacific’s twice-jilted bride - “Like a twice-jilted bride, Anthony Albanese has had a horror week. He turned up first to Vanuatu to sign the Nakamal security agreement and then to Papua New Guinea to sign the Pukpuk Defence Treaty, only to have both fall over… In the Pacific battle for influence, the Prime Minister’s failure to get either over the line… is a humiliating blow, even if it is unlikely to spell the end of either deal. It is tempting to blame Beijing… Doing so overlooks the messy internal coalition politics of Melanesian nations, and underplays their reticence to put all diplomatic eggs in one basket. Yet the Pukpuk pact asks a great deal of PNG, which for half a century has pursued a ‘friend to all, enemy of none’ policy… Australia has learned the hard way that Pacific nations cannot be rushed.” – Amanda Hodge, The Australian

>>23622811 China urges Papua New Guinea not to exclude other countries after it signed 'Pukpuk' communique with Australia – Beijing has urged Papua New Guinea not to sign an exclusive defence treaty with Australia, warning any pact should not undermine “third parties” or compromise sovereignty. The Chinese embassy said PNG must “properly handle issues bearing on its sovereignty and long-term interests.” The warning followed the failure of Australia and PNG to sign the 'Pukpuk' treaty this week, with the two countries instead issuing a communique. Prime Minister James Marape confirmed Defence Minister Billy Joseph would brief China and Indonesia. The pact, if signed, would commit PNG and Australia to mutual defence. Critics such as ANU’s Michael Kabuni say PNG needs coastguard, policing and disaster response, not combat readiness, warning a larger military risks destabilisation and fuelling tribal conflict.

>>23627145 China’s warning to Australian delegation over ‘two-faced’ policy in ‘security-focused’ Beijing talks – At the Australia-China High Level Dialogue in Beijing, senior Chinese figures warned a visiting Australian delegation that Canberra’s “two-faced policy” of deepening security ties with the US and Japan while maintaining heavy trade with China “is not sustainable”. The meeting, led by Craig Emerson and Warwick Smith, was described as “robust” and “less friendly”, with disputes over Taiwan and the South China Sea dominating closed-door sessions. Chinese delegates cast Australia’s actions as “provocative”, while Australian officials including ambassador Scott Dewar defended Canberra’s stance. Analysts said Beijing appeared more confident, but Australia viewed itself as having weathered China’s trade coercion intact.

>>23627559 Jacinta Allan’s cultural revolution tries to escape the shadow of Dan’s China deals – On her first official trip to China, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan emphasised cultural and people-to-people links, branding prominent Chinese-born and Chinese-background Victorians as “navigators” of a softer China strategy. She launched a tourism campaign with actor Wu Chun, who studied in Melbourne, and announced new Suburban Rail Loop tunnel boring machines from China, but sidestepped questions about activist Kevin Yam and journalist Cheng Lei. Analysts warned her emphasis on empathy risks appearing “fawning” without extracting concrete benefits. Allan’s approach contrasted with Daniel Andrews’ transactional Belt and Road diplomacy, though critics suggested her outreach also plays to Chinese-Australian voters back home.

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>>23636705 Critics of Australia-PNG defence treaty circle in fresh threat to pact – Papua New Guinea’s Pukpuk defence treaty with Australia has come under renewed scrutiny, with former prime minister Peter O’Neill warning it undermines the nation’s “friends to all, enemies to none” policy. PNG’s former ambassador to Belgium and the EU, Joshua Kalinoe, urged a full domestic review, including an eminent persons panel and parliamentary oversight. Beijing has cautioned PNG against signing “exclusive” deals, while Prime Minister James Marape may meet Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the UN. Police Minister Peter Tsiamalili Jr defended the treaty as a “framework of trust, respect and responsibility” for regional security. The agreement would commit PNG and Australia to mutual defence, embed personnel in each other’s forces, and bar security pacts with third parties, though critics fear erosion of sovereignty.

>>23636726 Jacinta Allan rejects claims of naivety, says China relationship built on values not transactions – Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has rejected claims she is naive in her approach to Beijing, insisting Chinese officials and leaders showed Victoria “an incredibly warm extension of friendship”. Critics argue she underestimates the transactional and strategic nature of the Chinese Communist Party, which uses trade leverage, education exchanges and diaspora influence to advance its interests. Throughout her five-day trip, Allan repeatedly referred to Chinese-Victorians as “navigators” of her new China strategy. Allan was reluctant to say whether previously imprisoned television presenter Cheng Lei and Hong Kong activist Kevin Yam, both of whom live in Melbourne, were also “navigators” of the relationship. Dismissing suggestions of naivety, Allan said her meetings with officials such as Education Minister Huai Jinpeng focused on “shared values” like family and security.

>>23665651 Video: Vanuatu plans to sign police deal with China while Nakamal pact with Australia is left hanging – Vanuatu has announced plans to finalise a new policing agreement with China after its landmark $500 million Nakamal Security Agreement with Australia was left unsigned. Police Minister Andrew Napuat met Chinese counterpart Wang Xiaohong in Beijing, where Beijing pledged $700,000 in police equipment, including drones, motorcycles and INTERPOL systems. Mr Napuat said China’s support addressed “security issues relating to climate change, transnational crime, cybercrime” rather than militarisation. He denied any link between the Chinese deal and the stalled Australian pact, insisting Vanuatu was “not a proxy in a geopolitical game” and would “continue to exercise its sovereignty”.

>>23665667 Australia cops it over Vanuatu's police deal with China – Vanuatu’s Police Minister Andrew Napuat has lashed out at Australia’s Pacific Minister Pat Conroy, telling him to “check his facts” after Conroy downplayed Port Vila’s plan to formalise a policing memorandum with China. Mr Napuat accused Australia of “arrogance and ignorance”, saying Vanuatu’s decisions were made “collectively as a government” and should be respected. He said the planned deal would clarify China’s policing role without establishing a permanent presence. Canberra maintains that Pacific security should remain within the “Pacific family” as it pursues its own stalled $500 million Nakamal pact, which includes provisions effectively limiting Chinese involvement.

>>23670086 ‘Provocative’: China’s riot police endanger fragile Pacific island peace – Chinese police have been secretly training Solomon Islands officers in riot control in Malaita province and expanding the controversial Fengqiao surveillance program beyond Honiara. Photos obtained by The Australian show officers demonstrating riot batons and signing up villages for fingerprinting under the guise of “community policing”. Former Malaita premier Daniel Suidani called the operation “very provocative” and a threat to local freedoms, accusing Beijing of trying to “suppress the people”. He warned that “Kung Fu diplomacy” and police gifts were precursors to Chinese mining interests as he mounts a comeback bid against the pro-Beijing government.

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>>23670099 COMMENTARY: Island paradise becomes testing ground for China’s riot control – “Beijing’s test case, the once fiercely independent Solomon Islands, tells you everything you need to know about Xi Jinping’s plan for our neighbours. The security pact that China signed with Solomon Islands in 2022 was just the precursor… Beijing increasingly is pulling the strings… imposing the insidious ‘Fengqiao’ surveillance scheme under the guise of community policing. We are losing this contest faster than we can imagine. We were hopelessly outplayed by a much more aggressive rival. Celsus Talifilu – who memorably acquired the draft security pact between China and Solomon Islands and posted it on the internet… reflected on the threat posed by the ‘Fengqiao Experience’ to Solomon Islands’ freedom. ‘Its essence is simple but dangerous: get ordinary citizens to spy on each other, report “troublemakers”, and pressure anyone who steps out of line back into conformity… Malaita, with its proud history of resisting foreign influence, must not become the testing ground for imported systems that erode trust between people.’ Tragically, it already is the testing ground.” – Stephen Rice, The Australian

>>23684666 Chinese involvement in Suburban Rail Loop under national security review – The $9bn Suburban Rail Loop East contract is under review by the Foreign Investment Review Board over Chinese state-owned involvement via John Holland, a key member of the preferred TransitLinX consortium. John Holland, owned by China Communications Construction Company since 2015, would help build and operate the $34.5bn line from Cheltenham to Box Hill. FIRB’s review, triggered by national security rules for “critical infrastructure,” could delay the deal’s finalisation. Both John Holland and the Victorian government described the process as routine, though analysts say concerns over data access and Chinese influence could have broader implications for major infrastructure projects.

>>23703774 Video: Papua New Guinea may sit out potential conflict between Australia and China despite Pukpuk defence treaty – Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape says there is a “high possibility” his country would not join a conflict involving Australia and China, despite the new Pukpuk mutual defence treaty. He told the ABC’s 7.30 that while the treaty commits both nations to “act to meet the common danger,” each retains sovereign decision-making. “We don’t expect Australia to drop everything and run to us,” Marape said, adding PNG would urge “peace, not war.” He ruled out Australian bases in PNG and said the treaty does not apply to potential border conflicts with Indonesia.

>>23713275 ‘Terrible cost for the world’: Taiwan must not fall, warns Scott Morrison – Former prime minister Scott Morrison has warned that surrendering Taiwan to China would amount to “appeasement” and come at a “terrible cost” for global security. Speaking at a defence forum in Taipei, Morrison said a Chinese takeover would push US forces out of East Asia and provide Beijing with a “springboard” to project power into the Pacific. He urged the West to boost defence spending and strengthen deterrence while Donald Trump’s presence in the White House “deters any hasty action by President Xi.” Morrison said Taiwan’s fall would cripple the global semiconductor industry and embolden autocratic powers such as Russia and Iran. US senators also warned that recent Chinese naval drills near Australia were intended to intimidate.

>>23722558 China further limits the export of rare earth materials and products – China has tightened controls on rare-earth exports, requiring new licences for technologies used in mining, smelting and production-line maintenance. The move, effective immediately, extends earlier restrictions on the minerals critical to global auto, defence and electronics industries. Beijing said the curbs target foreign entities transferring Chinese-origin materials for “sensitive military use,” citing national security risks. The European Commission expressed concern, urging China to remain a “reliable partner.” The US and EU have accused Beijing of weaponising supply chains, while both are ramping up local production and recycling efforts to reduce reliance. China controls 40 per cent of global reserves and dominates refining operations worldwide.

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>>23722664 Video: Trump threatens to impose additional 100% tariff on China – US President Donald Trump has vowed to impose a new 100% tariff on Chinese imports from next month, accusing Beijing of “becoming very hostile” and attempting to hold the world “captive” through its control of rare earth exports. Trump said he might cancel a planned meeting with President Xi Jinping but later clarified he would attend “regardless.” The warning follows China’s new export restrictions and additional port fees for US-linked ships, escalating an already tense trade standoff. Trump also announced forthcoming export controls on critical software, calling the measures necessary to “protect American industry and national security” as both sides prepare for difficult trade talks in South Korea.

>>23722676 Anthony Albanese will offer priority access to Australia’s critical minerals and rare earths to Donald Trump – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will offer US President Donald Trump priority access to Australia’s critical minerals and rare earths to help reduce Washington’s reliance on China for key defence and energy resources. The plan would make the US and UK preferred buyers under a new strategic supply framework, with details to be finalised during Albanese’s visit to the White House on October 20. An industry source said the success of Australia’s $1.2 billion critical minerals reserve “hinges” on Trump’s approval. The proposal follows US moves to secure alternative sources after Beijing tightened rare earth exports.

>>23726229 Albanese scrambles to lock in minerals deal before Trump meeting – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is rushing to finalise a $1.2 billion critical minerals deal with the United States before meeting President Donald Trump on October 20. A leaked departmental brief shows plans for price floors, government loans and offtake agreements to secure supplies of rare earths vital to defence, clean energy and AI industries. The push comes after Trump threatened 100 per cent tariffs on Chinese goods following Beijing’s new export controls on rare earths. Ukrainian officials have also urged Australia to share mining expertise to support a US-Ukraine minerals deal. Ambassador Kevin Rudd said Australia’s world-class mining capacity makes it “first in line” to strengthen America’s supply chain resilience.

>>23742360 ‘China v the world’: US calls on Australia in rare earths fight with Beijing – (Video) US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has urged Australia and other allies to unite against China’s sweeping new export controls on rare earth minerals, declaring it “China versus the world.” Bessent said Beijing’s plan to require global approval for products containing even trace amounts of Chinese-sourced minerals was an unacceptable bid to control supply chains worldwide. He warned that Western nations “have lots of levers we can pull for products China needs that could be equally damaging,” pledging “a fulsome, coordinated response” from the US, Europe, Australia, Canada and Asian democracies. “Bureaucrats in China cannot manage the supply chain or manufacturing process for the rest of the world,” he said.

>>23742497 Flight risk fears after bail for ‘China spy’ – An alleged Chinese spy has been granted bail by an ACT magistrate despite prosecutors warning she could flee Australia using a new passport from Beijing. The woman, accused of reckless foreign interference for allegedly gathering information on Canberra’s Guan Yin Citta Buddhist Association, was released on a $633,000 surety under strict conditions including daily police reporting, a ban on encrypted apps and a 200m exclusion zone around Chinese diplomatic premises. Magistrate Jane Campbell said she “did not have a crystal ball” but found the risk of flight or witness interference insufficient to deny bail. Prosecutors cited “unexplained wealth,” embassy contact and family links to China’s Public Security Bureau.

>>23742543 Video: Former US Marine pilot who trained Chinese flyers appeals extradition from Australia – Former US Marine pilot Daniel Duggan has appealed his extradition to the United States, arguing in the Federal Court in Canberra that his alleged conduct was not a crime under Australian law at the time. Duggan, 57, faces US charges of violating arms control laws by training Chinese military pilots to land on aircraft carriers. His lawyer, Christopher Parkin, called the case “uncharted territory”, citing the dual-criminality requirement. Prosecutor Trent Glover argued nothing in law barred extradition, saying Duggan’s offences clearly met treaty conditions. Duggan’s wife, Saffrine, said her husband was being used as a “pawn in an ideological war” between the US and China and pleaded for his release.

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>>23748379 Video: RAAF military plane targeted with flares by Chinese fighter jet over South China Sea – A Chinese PLA-AF Su-35 has released flares dangerously close to an Australian RAAF P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft over the South China Sea, in what Canberra called an “unsafe and unprofessional” act. Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said no damage was done but described the incident as “dangerous.” He said the issue has been raised with Beijing and the Chinese embassy in Canberra. Defence reaffirmed Australia’s right to conduct surveillance in international airspace under the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. It follows a similar incident in February involving a J-16 fighter, as regional tensions over airspace and navigation rights intensify.

>>23755115 Video: Donald Trump says critical minerals deal with Australia will produce 'so much' in race against China – Donald Trump and Anthony Albanese have announced a US–Australia Critical Minerals Framework worth up to $US8.5 billion, funding mining and refining projects to reduce reliance on China’s supply chain dominance. The first project — a gallium refinery in Western Australia — will produce 100 tonnes annually under Alcoa-Sojitz, with $US3 billion in joint investment expected in six months. Trump said the deal would deliver “so much critical minerals and rare earths you won’t know what to do with them.” Albanese called it a step toward full supply-chain partnership. The framework gives both nations ownership stakes and guaranteed offtake rights, with projects spanning multiple states, including neodymium, titanium, zircon, and graphite production.

>>23755241 Trump meets Albanese, nailing down rare earth deal; move cannot change supply landscape soon due to refinery bottleneck: expert – "US President Donald Trump met visiting Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Monday at the White House, nailing down a rare earth agreement, but Chinese observers noted the deal cannot shake China's dominant status in supply chain in short term, as the thorny issue is advanced refining technologies rather than reserves. Yu Lei, a professor from the Department of International Politics and Economics at Shandong University, told the Global Times on Tuesday that the core issue behind the rare earth and critical mineral agreement signed by the US and Australia lies in technology rather than resources … Yu warned, 'first is the market issue — its rare earth products lack sufficient export markets, and US domestic demand is far from enough to absorb Australia's production capacity; second is the technological bottleneck — there is still sufficient gap for Australia to meet the requirements for high-purity refining.' Chen Hong, a professor and director of the Australian Studies Centre at East China Normal University, described Albanese's Washington visit as 'Band-Aid diplomacy' with the US; however, Australia should also bear in mind the big picture and long-term interests for itself. 'Being the US ally should not be at the expense of stability in Asia-Pacific,' the expert said." – Zhang Han and Ma Tong, The Global Times

>>23755255 Video: China hits back at Australia’s protest after PLA jet releases flares close to RAAF aircraft over South China Sea – China has accused Australia of “illegally intruding” into its airspace after a Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) P-8A Poseidon patrol aircraft was approached by a Chinese Su-35 fighter jet that released flares nearby over the South China Sea. People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Senior Colonel Li Jianjian said Chinese forces were dispatched to “track, monitor, take countermeasures and warn off the aircraft,” warning that the Australian move “seriously violated China’s sovereignty.” Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles said the Australian patrol had acted lawfully and that the incident was “unsafe and unprofessional,” prompting a diplomatic protest in Beijing. It was the second such confrontation this year.

>>23759585 Solomon Islands ‘anti-Beijing warrior’ Daniel Suidani dies – Former Malaita premier Daniel Suidani, a leading critic of China’s influence in the Pacific, has died in hospital in Honiara. Known for banning Chinese companies from his province and opposing the Solomon Islands’ 2019 diplomatic switch from Taiwan to Beijing, Suidani was ousted in 2023 for refusing to accept the “one China” policy but later reinstated by the High Court. He had recently vowed to reclaim leadership, declaring “I still have the support of the people.” Suidani condemned China’s “Fengqiao Experience” policing model in Malaita, calling it an intrusion on Melanesian culture. His death is seen as a major loss for Australia’s regional allies critical of Beijing’s expansion.

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>>23775923 Japan’s ‘Iron Lady’ Sanae Takaichi urges closer ties with Australia to counter China – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met Japan’s new leader, Sanae Takaichi, on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit, where she urged that Japan and Australia “spearhead efforts” for a free and open Indo-Pacific and deepen cooperation beyond the Quad. Ms Takaichi, Japan’s first female prime minister, said both nations had “the will and capacity” to realise this vision. Mr Albanese said the two countries stood for “freedom in the Pacific” and highlighted Australia’s purchase of Mogami-class frigates. As Mr Trump and Xi Jinping prepare for their summit in South Korea, Canberra and Tokyo are strengthening strategic ties amid rising tensions over China’s regional ambitions.

>>23775946 Video: Albanese raises jet flare incident with Chinese premier ‘very directly’ – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he confronted Chinese Premier Li Qiang “very directly” over a Chinese military jet’s deployment of flares near an Australian P-8A Poseidon aircraft on October 19. Speaking in Kuala Lumpur, Albanese called it “an incident of concern” and said, “friends are able to discuss issues frankly.” The meeting followed his Washington visit and a $13 billion rare earths deal with US President Donald Trump. Li said China-Australia ties were “seeing an upward momentum.” Albanese also met Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to reaffirm support for the Quad and a “free and open Indo-Pacific.”

>>23780188 Video: Fearing a flare-up, Anthony Albanese shoots from the lip about his mate, Xi Jinping – Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said his trust in Chinese President Xi Jinping “has not been shaken” after a Chinese jet fired a flare near an Australian patrol plane, calling Premier Li Qiang “my friend” while insisting “friends are able to discuss issues frankly.” In Kuala Lumpur, Albanese urged Asian leaders “not to succumb to fatalism” and to share responsibility for regional stability. He said Xi “has never given [him] a reason not to trust him.” Albanese reaffirmed hopes for a Quad meeting early next year and welcomed the upcoming Trump–Xi summit, describing his US critical minerals deal as “a really good outcome.”

>>23784970 Australia, Asian mates take veiled swipe at Beijing as PM prepares to dine with Trump – Australia and eleven Southeast Asian nations warned that “intensifying geo-strategic shifts” were “heightening the risk of conflict,” in a statement seen as a rebuke to Beijing after Chinese military provocations. The ASEAN–Australia declaration called for restraint, “freedom of navigation,” and adherence to international law. Anthony Albanese said it reflected a “shared commitment to upholding a peaceful and stable Southeast Asia.” Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said engagement with China “doesn’t mean condoning excesses.” Albanese now heads to APEC in South Korea, where Donald Trump and Xi Jinping will discuss trade and rare earths. Chinese Premier Li Qiang accused the US of “economic bullying.” Albanese reaffirmed support for the Philippines and Japan.

>>23788869 Rare win: Donald Trump and Xi Jinping use superpowers for good – (Video) Donald Trump hailed an “amazing meeting” with Xi Jinping after securing a trade deal to ease US-China tensions, pledging to cut tariffs by 10 per cent in exchange for Beijing delaying rare earth export limits. Xi called for the two nations to be “partners and friends,” with both leaders agreeing to reciprocal visits next year. Mr Trump said “Taiwan never came up” but cited talks on Ukraine and fentanyl. Anthony Albanese welcomed the thaw, calling it “good news” for global stability. Xinhua confirmed a “basic consensus” but gave few details, while Kevin Rudd warned that underlying strategic tensions would persist.

>>23788893 Rudd hails Australia’s ‘first-class’ ties with Trump – Australia’s ambassador Kevin Rudd praised Anthony Albanese for maintaining “a first-class working relationship” with Donald Trump while repairing ties with China. Speaking at the Citi A50 Investment Summit, Mr Rudd said Canberra was viewed “positively” in Washington, citing the recent multibillion-dollar critical minerals deal as proof. At an APEC dinner in South Korea, Mr Trump told Mr Albanese, “You’ve done a fantastic job … we’re working together on rare earths.” Mr Rudd said the Prime Minister had “restabilised the China relationship” after disruptions under Scott Morrison, noting that the “strategic tensions” in the region would persist but Australia’s diplomacy was navigating them effectively.

#43 - Part 68

Australia / China Tensions - Part 16

>>23796791 Video: Albo and Xi rub shoulders at APEC – Anthony Albanese briefly met Chinese President Xi Jinping at the APEC summit in South Korea, a day after HMAS Ballarat conducted a freedom-of-navigation exercise in the South China Sea. Mr Albanese said he discussed recent talks with Premier Li Qiang and raised concerns about the flare incident involving a Chinese jet. He dismissed escalation claims, saying the exercise was “routine.” The meeting followed eased US-China trade tensions and Beijing’s 12-month delay on rare earth export limits. Mr Albanese said Australia’s minerals were “in demand around the world” and welcomed South Korean investment in lithium and critical minerals. After cordial exchanges with Xi and Donald Trump, he said Australia’s diplomacy was “in good shape,” crediting “consistency in leadership” for stronger international ties.

>>23814376 ASIO spy boss takes aim at China, accusing Beijing of widespread intellectual property theft – ASIO Director-General Mike Burgess has accused China of “wholesale intellectual property theft” and political interference while warning that several nations are “willing and capable” of assassinations in Australia. Speaking at the Lowy Institute, Burgess said ASIO is confronting overlapping threats from China, Russia and Iran, and vowed to keep “calling out” the Chinese Communist Party for espionage and influence operations. He said Beijing’s officials “don’t understand” Australia’s system or ASIO’s independence, adding that Chinese complaints “won’t stop my resolve”. Burgess said intelligence cooperation with the United States remains “as strong as it’s ever been” under Donald Trump’s presidency.

>>23814383 Australian spy chief accuses China of IP theft and meddling; experts say remarks reflect certain Australian officials’ attempt to mislead public – "An Australian spy chief on Tuesday accused Chinese security services of widespread intellectual property theft and political meddling… Chinese experts criticized the series of statements, saying they reflect some Australia politicians' anxiety and bias toward China's technological and military progress. Mike Burgess… claimed that he would continue to call out China for harming Australian interests… Burgess claimed that China would understand ‘a Western liberal democracy and the role and the statutory standing of the security service. We work for the government of the day but our security assessments and our security action are independent,’ Australian spy chief claimed. Claiming that China's intelligence agencies are engaged in large-scale intellectual property theft and political interference… reveals the Australian spy chief's deep rooted sense of anxiety and unease, Yu Lei, chief research fellow at the Research Center for Pacific Island Countries of Liaocheng University in East China's Shandong Province, told the Global Times. As for Burgess's claim that China fails to understand how the Western mechanism operates, the accusation itself reveals both arrogance and ignorance, Chen Hong, director of New Zealand Studies Centre from East China Normal University, told the Global Times. Chen said the arrogance lies in the belief that the Western model of democracy is inherently superior and that China must learn from or conform to it. In reality, China has its own political system and model of social governance. As Australia's spy chief, Burgess made these remarks without offering any evidence - vague and misleading statements aimed not at protecting the public, but at shaping public perception, Chen said." – Zhao Yusha, The Global Times

#43 - Part 69

Australia / China Tensions - Part 17

>>23843559 Video: Spy chief warns of China espionage threat to business, critical infrastructure - ASIO director-general Mike Burgess says Chinese state-backed hackers are attempting to infiltrate Australia’s critical infrastructure, warning the nation has now crossed the threshold for “high-impact sabotage”. Addressing an ASIC forum, he cited Chinese groups Salt Typhoon and Volt Typhoon probing telecommunications, water, transport and energy networks to gain persistent, undetected access. Burgess said one nation-state – “no prizes for guessing which one” – had repeatedly scanned Australian systems, mirroring activity seen in the US territory of Guam where hackers positioned for potential disruption. He warned that a foreign actor could “turn off telecommunications… or cripple our financial system”, estimating espionage cost the economy $12.5 billion last financial year. Burgess urged companies to harden defences, saying rising grievance and conspiracy movements were also driving greater extremism risks.

>>23843570 Video: Chinese state-backed hackers a rising, aggressive threat, ASIO chief Mike Burgess says - ASIO director-general Mike Burgess has warned business leaders that Chinese state-sponsored hackers are driving a new wave of espionage and cyber sabotage targeting Australia’s critical infrastructure. Speaking at ASIC’s annual forum, he said “we’re there now” on the threshold of high-impact sabotage, with hostile actors probing water, transport, telecommunications and energy networks to gain persistent, hidden access. Burgess cited groups Salt Typhoon and Volt Typhoon as operating for Chinese intelligence and the military. He said espionage cost Australia billions, including $2bn in stolen trade secrets each year, and warned that attacks could “cripple our financial system” or “turn off the power during a heatwave”. Burgess urged companies to fix known vulnerabilities, noting 99 per cent of intrusions exploit existing weaknesses.

>>23847859 Beijing gets personal with Australia’s ‘irresponsible’ ASIO chief Mike Burgess - China has launched an unusually direct attack on ASIO director-general Mike Burgess after he warned that Chinese state-backed hackers had probed Australian critical infrastructure. Beijing’s foreign ministry accused Burgess of “repeatedly hurling attacks at China”, “spreading disinformation” and “deliberately sowing division”, urging him to stop making “irresponsible statements”. Chinese state media amplified the denunciation, with Beijing-aligned academics claiming ASIO was “ideology-driven” and engaged in “baseless smears”. Burgess, backed by both major parties, recently warned that Chinese groups such as Salt Typhoon and Volt Typhoon had attempted to map and infiltrate water, transport, telecommunications and energy networks. The clash follows years of escalating espionage concerns and high-level efforts, including clandestine meetings in Beijing, to curb China’s activity.

#43 - Part 70

Child Sexual Abuse, Pedophilia, Human Trafficking and Satanism Investigations - Part 1

>>23562548 AI apps face $49.5m fine for creating fake nudes of Aussie students - Australia’s eSafety Commissioner has issued a formal warning to an overseas company running “nudify” apps that strip clothes from images, the first step toward a $49.5m fine. Commissioner Julie Inman Grant said the platforms were used “nefariously by Australian schoolchildren, to create deepfake image-based abuse of their peers” and marketed features like undressing “any girl” with “schoolgirl” and “sex mode” options. She warned the services are creating child sexual abuse material and causing “tremendous harm to young and teenage girls in schools every week.” Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells said the government will consult on new safeguards, as reports of fake images involving minors continue to rise.

>>23591096 Paedophile priest John Sidney Denham dies in prison hospital - Defrocked Catholic priest John Sidney Denham, described as one of Australia’s worst paedophiles, has died aged 82 at Long Bay prison hospital. Charged in 2008 following Strike Force Georgiana’s investigations, he was sentenced in 2010 for abusing 39 boys, with further convictions in 2015 after more victims came forward. His crimes at Newcastle’s St Pius X College in the 1970s and 80s left lasting scars, with many victims taking their own lives and one death prompting the child abuse royal commission. Former detective Kristi Faber, who led Strike Force Georgiana, called Denham “one of the worst” and said survivors’ bravery in coming forward stopped further offending. The Maitland-Newcastle Diocese acknowledged Denham as a “prolific and notorious child-abuser” and offered condolences to his victims and their families.

>>23591125 (2015) Priest John Sidney Denham sentenced to another 13 years jail for sexual abuse of boys - (Video) John Sidney Denham, a defrocked Catholic priest described as “sadistic,” has been sentenced to a further 13 years for abusing at least 57 boys in Newcastle between 1968 and 1986. Judge Helen Syme said the crimes, committed at St Pius X Catholic School and elsewhere, included grooming, molestation, and brutal rapes, often combined with threats and canings. She found Denham was protected by fellow priests Tom Brennan and Ron Picken, who facilitated the abuse. Showing no remorse, Denham received a maximum 19-year sentence, extending his prison term until at least 2028.

>>23591187 (2018) ‘They don't really get it’: Apology appreciated, but it won't change anything for John's family - Lou Pirona says his son John, whose 2012 suicide became the catalyst for a royal commission, was “an important cog” in exposing systemic child abuse. John, a Lake Macquarie firefighter, was 13 when he was abused by sadistic priest John Denham at St Pius X High School, protected by principal Tom Brennan. Though Pirona appreciates the government’s national apology, he and wife Pam stress it cannot ease their grief: “But it doesn’t bring John back, does it?” Pam wrote to Bishop Bill Wright after the Church admitted Brennan’s abuse, saying it was the first real acknowledgement of betrayed parental trust. Still, she believes Church leaders “don’t really get it” - the profound pain inflicted on victims and families. John’s final words, “Too much pain,” remain etched in their lives.

>>23591238 Police comb through 550,000 files to identify Sydney victims of alleged childcare paedophile – Federal police are sifting through 550,000 unique files, including tens of thousands of videos, allegedly linked to a Sydney childcare worker accused of filming abuse of children in his care. The man, barred from being identified under court order, faces seven charges of producing child abuse material and possession of abusive data. The Australian Federal Police say his alleged offending may mirror that of Victorian childcare worker Joshua Dale Brown. The man, who worked across multiple Sydney centres over a decade, was arrested in July and remains in custody.

>>23608173 Alan Jones hit with five new charges of indecent assault – Former broadcaster Alan Jones has been charged with five additional counts of indecent assault, lifting the total against him to 40. The 84-year-old, who has pleaded not guilty, is accused of offences between 2001 and 2019 involving 11 men aged 17 and over. Allegations include groping, kissing “using his tongue,” and masturbating during one incident, at properties including his Sydney homes and farm. His lawyer, Bryan Wrench, has challenged police handling of Jones’ phone and cited contradictory witness statements. Strike Force Bonnefin, established following a major investigation by The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, is examining allegations Jones used his influence to prey on young men. Jones maintains he is “certainly not guilty.” - https://qresear.ch/?q=Alan+Jones

#43 - Part 71

Child Sexual Abuse, Pedophilia, Human Trafficking and Satanism Investigations - Part 2

>>23608173 Veteran broadcaster Alan Jones charged over indecent assault allegations - (18 November 2024) - https://archive.vn/lfpNB#22008499

>>23617381 Video: New details emerge of assault allegations against Alan Jones - Former broadcaster Alan Jones, 84, now faces 27 charges of indecent assault and sexual touching after updated court documents revealed further details of alleged incidents at public venues and private residences across NSW. Nine complainants remain, down from 11, with accusations including groping, kissing, and sexual contact at locations such as the Sydney Opera House, Gunners Barracks restaurant, lifts at his home and workplace, and his Fitzroy Falls farm. Jones’ lawyer, Bryan Wrench, attacked the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for what he called a “backflip” in shifting the case from a jury trial to a local court hearing, expected to run months. Strike Force Bonnefin continues to oversee the investigation. Jones denies all charges.

>>23694978 How Dassi, Elly and Nicole survived Malka Leifer – The new documentary 'Surviving Malka Leifer' revisits the sexual abuse endured by sisters Dassi Erlich, Elly Sapper and Nicole Meyer at Melbourne’s Adass Israel School, exposing both the depth of their trauma and the system that protected their abuser. Directed by Adam Kamien, the film traces the sisters’ lives from their abusive childhood through the decade-long struggle to extradite Leifer from Israel, where she fled with the school’s support. It features revelations from their 2023 Melbourne trial, where Leifer was found guilty of abusing Dassi and Elly but acquitted of charges relating to Nicole. The documentary portrays the sisters’ resilience, the emotional complexity of their pursuit of justice, and their enduring pain, showing how the scars of abuse persist long after a legal verdict is reached.

>>23694981 Video: Dassi Erlich, Nicole Meyer and Elly Sapper - The three sisters who fought back - Three sisters who exposed Malka Leifer’s abuse break their silence in a new Stan documentary, tracing their fight for justice across 15 years. - A Current Affair

>>23694984 Video: Revealed - Surviving Malka Leifer | Official Trailer | A Stan Original Documentary Film - Surviving Malka Leifer is the 15-year saga of three young sisters who stared down political corruption, legal manoeuvring and community pressure to hold to account the ultra-orthodox head mistress who stole their childhood. The Stan Original documentary film Revealed - Surviving Malka Leifer premieres October 5, only on Stan. Warning: This film contains content about child sexual abuse that some viewers may find distressing. - Stan Australia

>>23694984 OPINION: Surviving Malka Leifer – “Sometimes almost unbearably sad, Surviving Malka Leifer offers a gripping look at trauma and resilience through the eyes of three sisters… Director Adam Kamien keeps the focus on them throughout… The result is an unflinching focus on the toll their struggle took on them; it’s a deeply personal story that at times is hard to bear. One of the more startling facts is how the abuse began well before the sisters went to high school… ‘Fear and hunger’ is how one sister describes the overwhelming emotions of her childhood… The sisters’ bravery is undeniable throughout this documentary. At times, their strength is the only thing that makes this story bearable; the extent of Leifer’s abuse is often shocking, the damage done heartbreaking. The positive is that despite it all, the trio stood up to power, demanded justice, and achieved it.” – Anthony Morris, ScreenHub

>>23723129 ‘Every single person plays a part’: The sisters who survived Malka Leifer – Three Melbourne sisters at the centre of the Malka Leifer sexual abuse case have shared their story in a new documentary, Surviving Malka Leifer, which details their decades-long pursuit of justice. Nicole Meyer, Dassi Erlich and Elly Sapper endured years of abuse, Leifer’s flight from Australia, and 74 legal hearings before the former school principal was extradited and jailed. The film, directed by Adam Kamien, explores their experiences and recovery. Meyer said revisiting the ordeal was “confronting but empowering”, while Erlich urged viewers to recognise that “every single person plays a part” in addressing abuse. The sisters said the documentary marks a transition from “fighting” to “healing.”

#43 - Part 72

Child Sexual Abuse, Pedophilia, Human Trafficking and Satanism Investigations - Part 3

>>23730669 Inside the ABC’s Darkest Secret: The 1975 Pedophile Broadcast – (Video) A 1975 ABC radio interview featuring self-confessed pedophiles has resurfaced amid claims the broadcaster lied to Parliament and continues to suppress the tape. The 42-minute Lateline segment, hosted by Richard Neville, gave a platform to men boasting of grooming and abusing children — behaviour later defended by then-ABC chairman Richard Downing as “something the community ought to know about.” Journalist John Adams says the ABC denied possessing the recording in 2018 but forced him to sign a gag order after retrieving it in 2023. He argues the minister for communications should compel its release under subsection 78(3A) of the ABC Act, calling the episode “a national scandal buried for fifty years.”

>>23730683 Average Aussie defies the ABC in ‘extraordinary action’ and publishes 1975 paedophile broadcast – (Video) Economist and former political adviser John Adams has defied the ABC by uploading a suppressed 1975 Lateline segment featuring self-confessed pederasts to his YouTube channel, 'In the Interests of the People'. The broadcast, long buried by the ABC, included men describing the sexual exploitation of boys as young as 12. Adams obtained the tape in 2023 under a “personal use only” agreement but says he breached it “in the public interest” after the ABC refused release. The ABC condemned the broadcast as “abhorrent and deeply harmful” and said republication was “inappropriate,” while Adams called the move “a circuit breaker against Australia’s culture of concealment.”

>>23780215 Survivors of paedophile teacher Peter Farmer sue Victorian Education Department – Six survivors of paedophile teacher Peter Farmer are suing the Victorian Education Department, alleging it failed to protect them and allowed him to keep teaching — and offending — in the Northern Territory after complaints surfaced in the 1980s. Farmer, who groomed and assaulted students at a Newborough primary school, was jailed for six and a half years after pleading guilty to 10 charges. Judge Geoffrey Chettle described his conduct as “extensive, repetitive and repulsive”. Former students Lola* and Jo* told the ABC he was “an absolute mastermind”, normalising abuse in the classroom while calling victims his “wives”. Witness Dianne Smith said she reported seeing Farmer molest a girl in 1988, but he was allowed to resign and later taught elsewhere. Lawyer Grace Wilson said the department’s inaction allowed Farmer to continue abusing children, calling its response “a failure of duty of care”. The department has denied responsibility but issued an apology to victims.

#43 - Part 73

Child Sexual Abuse, Pedophilia, Human Trafficking and Satanism Investigations - Part 4

>>23780242 Video: On the dark web, paedophiles are sharing tips on how to abuse children in child care – A Four Corners investigation has found encrypted forums on the dark web where offenders exchange information about infiltrating childcare centres and evading detection. Professor Michael Salter of UNSW said the offenders’ own posts showed that “early child care [is] a conducive place for the abuse of children”. The forums contain so-called “handbooks” outlining grooming tactics and methods for gaining employment in child care. Some users also boasted of access to children, prompting calls for stronger regulation. The investigation links these forums to convicted offenders including former childcare worker Ashley Griffith, sentenced to life imprisonment for assaulting children in Australia and Italy. Former AFP agent Drew Viney said Griffith’s case was “one of the worst” he had seen, describing how forensic work led police to multiple centres. Experts warned that inadequate supervision made childcare facilities attractive to offenders, with Dr Mike Bourke urging vigilance and communication among parents and staff.

>>23784984 Online ‘hunters’ targeting girls, says AFP commissioner Krissy Barrett – Australian Federal Police Commissioner Krissy Barrett has warned that boys and young men are “hunting, stalking and grooming teenagers online” and coercing them to commit acts of violence against themselves and others. In her first major address, Ms Barrett said “crimefluencers” glorifying sadism, nihilism and Satanism were forming decentralised online networks to target pre-teen and teenage girls. She revealed the AFP had identified 59 alleged offenders linked to these groups, with several international arrests made. A new AFP taskforce, Pompilid, will “identify, disrupt and dismantle” criminal ecosystems exploiting children. Ms Barrett said perpetrators sought notoriety, not money or sexual gratification. She also unveiled work with Microsoft on an AI tool to interpret emoji and slang in encrypted chats, as the AFP expands child exploitation and terrorism investigations.

>>23800897 Video: Queensland pedophile register to launch with names, photos by December – Queensland will become the first state to introduce a public sex offender register under Daniel’s Law, named in honour of murdered schoolboy Daniel Morcombe, whose 2003 abduction and killing exposed critical failings in child protection and offender monitoring. Passed by parliament on Thursday, the legislation will allow parents to identify convicted child sex offenders by name, photograph and year of birth through a three-tier system. Tier 1 will list offenders under supervision or who have breached reporting rules; Tier 2 will allow searches for high-risk offenders in local areas; and Tier 3 will let parents apply to check specific individuals with child contact. Premier David Crisafulli said the law ends “the days of monsters hiding in plain sight,” while Police Minister Dan Purdie said it was about “vigilance, not vengeance.” Misuse carries penalties of up to 10 years’ jail. Daniel’s parents, Bruce and Denise Morcombe said Daniel’s Law would “save other children” and inspire nationwide adoption.

Trump removes tariffs on beef, fruit, coffee in affordability push

Jessica Gardner - Nov 15, 2025

Washington | Australian beef producers will lose the competitive edge that has helped exports to the United States soar this year after President Donald Trump removed tariffs on a range of agricultural goods to stave off an affordability crisis.

Trump signed an order late on Friday (Saturday AEDT) to immediately remove tariffs on hundreds of product categories, including beef, fruits, coffee, nuts and spices, in a move aimed at lowering costs on groceries as the administration faces pressure from voters to cut prices on everyday goods.

The tariffs in question were the so-called retaliatory levies Trump slapped on all nations based on what he described as a threat to national security from trade deficits. In the order published on Friday afternoon, he said information about the level of demand for certain products and domestic production capacity led him to determine it was “necessary and appropriate” to modify the tariffs.

Trade Minister Don Farrell welcomed the removal of the tariffs.

“The Albanese government’s position has been consistent and clear,” he said in a statement.

“Tariffs are an act of economic self harm and ultimately hurts American consumers. We maintain our position that tariffs on any Australian products are unjustified, and continue to advocate for their removal.”

As The Australian Financial Review reported earlier this week, sales of beef – Australia’s largest export to the US – hit $1.6 billion in the three months to September, a 26 per cent rise over the year.

Some of that growth has been attributed to the fact that Australian beef sold to the US is subject to a 10 per cent tariff, which is well below rates applied to rival producers such as Brazil (50 per cent) and New Zealand (15 per cent).

In 2024, Australia was the third-largest supplier of beef into the US, selling $US1.1 billion worth, according to data comparison site the Observatory of Economic Complexity. Beef from the top two suppliers, Canada ($US2.5 billion) and Mexico ($US1.7 billion), is already exempt from tariffs.

Australian exporters have taken advantage of the economic dislocation caused by Trump’s application of a wide range of levies on US trading partners. Australian businesses sold a record $6.9 billion of goods to the United States in the three months to September, up from $5.8 billion one year earlier, according to analysis by The Australian Financial Review of figures from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

The Trump administration’s renewed focus on affordability comes after Democrat candidates running in two gubernatorial elections and the New York mayor’s race surged to victory after campaigning to solve cost-of-living issues.

The victories were an echo of Trump’s 2024 presidential win, in which he capitalised on voter discontent after inflation surged as high as 9 per cent during Joe Biden’s presidency, as a result of pandemic-induced economic shocks.

Since then, however, Trump has glossed over economic concerns, such as signs of weakness in the labour market and inflation back up above 3 per cent.

Prices of ground beef and beef steak, in particular, were up more than 12 per cent compared to a year earlier, according to the Bureau of Labour Statistics in September. That was more than four times the rate of inflation.

A week ago, Trump directed blame for some of the rise onto the nation’s largest meat-packing companies and ordered the Justice Department to investigate.

Moves to scrap tariffs on beef may anger US cattlemen, who have been struggling with drought and tariffs on their inputs such as farm equipment and fertiliser used to grow feed.

Those ranchers were also enraged by Trump’s bailout of Argentina. That deal included increased beef exports to the US to lower prices, which helped to sink the price of cattle futures.

US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer teased the plan earlier in the day, saying that it fits with Trump’s broader strategy to create tariff exemptions for key goods and sectors.

“Now is the right time to, you know, to release some of these items the president said he was going to release,” Greer said. “This is a natural outgrowth of exactly what the present signalled, and that’s what he’s doing today.”

https://www.afr.com/world/north-america/trump-to-cut-tariffs-on-beef-fruit-coffee-in-affordability-push-20251115-p5nfmp

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SIy1Ank61yY

Former US spy boss Mike Rogers takes aim at Julian Assange and Edward Snowden

‘I would totally disagree with the course of action that they both chose’.

Josh Martin - 26 Oct 2025

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Online activists Julian Assange and Edward Snowden have divided opinion over the last two decades with their actions that exposed military secrets and government surveillance programs to the world.

Some see them as heroes of journalism and freedom of information, and others view the pair as traitors of the West.

Last year Assange - the founder of WikiLeaks - pleaded guilty to conspiring to obtain and disclose US defence information.

The Australian has been free for a year but isn’t free from condemnation.

Once described as the world’s most wanted man, Edward Snowden remains in Russia after exposing global surveillance programs conducted by the United States’ National Security Agency (NSA).

Retired Admiral Mike Rogers was the 17th director of the NSA and took control in the year after Snowden’s leaking, as the US also pursued Julian Assange.

He says both men made the wrong choice.

“I would totally disagree with the course of action that they both chose,” Rogers told 7NEWS podcast The Issue.

“My view is there are mechanisms to address legitimate concerns. Theft of classified information is not one of the ways to do it, nor is trying to co-opt others to do so a way to do it.”

Distrust in institutions

When asked if the pair’s behaviour led to a greater distrust in institutions, Rogers - a former adviser to Barack Obama and Donald Trump - replied that he believes the public has always been sceptical about governments.

“Well, I’ll only speak for my nation. Look, in America, there has always been a strong measure of distrust or concern around the power of government over its citizens,” Rogers said.

“Whether that’s government’s knowledge of citizens and their activities and preferences or what they choose to do, say, believe, feel, support - that’s always been an element in the American construct. We overthrew an empire, and we told the King, ‘Hey look nobody in London is going to tell us what to do’.

“I never had a problem with that. That’s part of being in a democracy. The way you try to mitigate those concerns, which are very valid, is what kind of oversight do you have? What kind of checks and balances do you have? What kind of independent reviews do you have? What kind of legal frameworks do you have in place to ensure you’re not abusing the authority, abusing the capability or the power that’s been placed in your hands?”

(continued)

>>23860375

>>23860385

‘We have nothing to hide’: Trump says Epstein files should be released

Michael Koziol - November 17, 2025

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Washington: US President Donald Trump has reversed course and instructed Republicans to vote in favour of releasing the so-called Epstein files, declaring he has “nothing to hide” and complaining that the issue is distracting from his accomplishments.

However, there is mounting concern that any potential release of the files will be hobbled by new investigations Trump has ordered into dead sex offender Jeffrey Epstein’s links with prominent Democrats, including former president Bill Clinton.

Returning to Washington from his Florida club on Sunday night (Monday AEDT), Trump called on Republicans in the House of Representatives to support a bill that would – if passed by the Senate and signed by the president – compel the documents’ release.

“House Republicans should vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide, and it’s time to move on from this Democrat Hoax perpetrated by Radical Left Lunatics in order to deflect from the Great Success of the Republican Party, including our recent Victory on the Democrat ‘Shutdown’,” Trump wrote on social media.

“Nobody cared about Jeffrey Epstein when he was alive and, if the Democrats had anything, they would have released it before our Landslide Election Victory.”

Trump lamented that the Epstein issue was distracting from his success in reducing taxes, securing the border, deporting illegal immigrants, “ending men in women’s sports”, bringing down inflation and other matters.

Republicans on the House oversight committee, which has received thousands of documents under subpoena from Epstein’s estate, last week released about 20,000 pages of material after Democrats published three select emails that mentioned Trump.

Trump said on Monday (AEDT) that the Justice Department had already produced a lot of material on Epstein and Congress should have access to whatever it was “legally entitled to”.

“I DON’T CARE!” he said. “All I do care about is that Republicans get BACK ON POINT.”

However, those pushing for the files to be released are now concerned that new criminal investigations ordered by Trump into Epstein’s links with Clinton and others will severely limit whatever files Congress is “entitled” to receive from the Department of Justice and the FBI.

“If they have ongoing investigations in certain areas, those documents can’t be released, so this might be a big smokescreen … as a last-ditch effort to prevent the release of the Epstein files,” Thomas Massie, a Republican congressman from Kentucky, told ABC’s This Week.

Massie said he was confident a “deluge” of Republicans – 100 or more – would support the bill to compel the files’ release. “I’m hoping to get a veto-proof majority on this legislation,” he said, referring to the two-thirds majority needed (in both chambers) to override a presidential veto.

(continued)

Brad Battin ousted as Victorian opposition leader, Jess Wilson becomes state's first female Liberal leader

April Glover - Nov 18, 2025

Victoria's opposition leader Brad Battin has been ousted in a leadership spill, with Jess Wilson emerging as the first female Liberal leader in the state's history.

Battin conceded defeat following a short party room meeting today and confirmed the vote "didn't go my way" when fronting media.

"The Victorian Liberal Party need to make sure that we're on path to ensure that we can get into power at the next election, because we need to see genuine change and we can't just wait for it to happen," Battin said in a short address.

"Politics isn't about just being inside the parliament. It's actually about people. It's about the people we're supposed to be representing.

"In the time I've been in this role, it's been an absolute privilege."

Wilson was elected as leader during the meeting, which began at 8.30am today.

Her successful leadership challenge makes the former shadow treasurer the first woman to lead the state's Liberal party.

She has been an MP for just three years and was first elected in 2022.

It also makes Wilson Victoria's third Liberal leader in under a year.

If Wilson remains opposition under until November next year, it will be the first time two women are contesting a Victorian state election as leaders.

Wilson told media today it was time the Liberal Party went in a "new direction".

"Today the Liberal Party room spoke very clearly," Wilson said.

"We need to absolutely focus on winning the next election.

"And today, the Liberal Party room spoke and elected me as their leader to take them to the next election, to ensure that when we are getting up and every day focussing on the fact that we need to deliver for the priorities of Victorians."

When probed by reporters, Wilson could not answer why Battin was ousted from the top job.

She repeated that the party room "spoke very, very clearly", adding that the Liberal Party needed to put its best foot forward ahead of the state election next year.

When speaking outside parliament earlier today, Wilson said one of her priorities is to help every Victorian in the state own a home.

She named Victoria's state debt, the ongoing "crime crisis" and healthcare as her three other priorities.

"Victorians have a clear choice," Wilson said.

"A choice between a tired, out-of-touch Labor government or a new generation Liberal team."

In the hours after being confirmed Liberal leader, the Victorian Labor party posted a new political advertisement onto X, which claimed Wilson and the Liberals are "divided on everything except cutting the services Victorians rely on".

Wilson also confirmed outgoing opposition leader Battin would have a role in the shadow ministry going forward.

She described Battin as a "tireless supporter and worker for the Liberals".

He was elected leader of the Victorian Liberals in December 2024 after a similar leadership spill.

https://www.9news.com.au/national/brad-battin-ousted-as-victorian-opposition-leader-in-liberal-leadership-spill/23c1ef10-e828-4ca2-a196-2e793f3fc7e4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L3ehtKQ2LEk

>>23864561

Neo-Nazi who rallied outside parliament taken into Villawood detention centre

Michael McGowan and Patrick Begley - November 18, 2025

A neo-Nazi who took part in an anti-Jewish protest outside NSW Parliament has been taken into immigration detention ahead of his looming deportation back to his native South Africa.

At the same time, Australia Post says it is investigating whether one of its employees – a regional delivery manager – was among the 60-odd members of the National Socialist Network involved in the rally.

Matthew Gruter, a civil engineer and senior member of the National Socialist Network, had his visa cancelled by the Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke on Monday after the Herald revealed the South African native was among the black-clad neo-Nazis who shouted antisemitic slogans at the rally on Saturday, November 8.

Gruter was active on social media accounts linked to the extreme-right group in the early hours of Tuesday morning. In a post written after midnight, Gruter said he would “exhaust all legal options” to avoid returning to his home country.

In a statement published by an NSN-affiliated website, Gruter said Australian Border Force had come to his home early on Tuesday morning and that he had been taken to Villawood detention centre. He said the visa had been cancelled on character grounds.

Burke on Tuesday said he expected Gruter would leave the country “very soon”.

“Most people, once they’re in immigration detention, leave pretty quickly,” he said.

Burke, who in justifying the visa cancellation likened Gruter to an unwelcome house guest, said the neo-Nazis who rallied outside parliament “hate modern Australia”.

“Multicultural Australia and modern Australia are the same thing,” he said.

“Someone who gets involved in neo-Nazism in Australia shouldn’t pretend they’re somehow patriotic. They hate modern Australia.

“My priority is that Australians feel at home, feel safe, that they are safe in Australia. Anyone who wants to stand in the way of that can find the full force of the law coming down on them.”

Burke said the government was “very confident of our position”, noting there were limited avenues to appeal once a minister ordered a visa to be revoked.

Gruter was employed as an engineer in Sydney by multinational firm Aurecon. The company has not responded to multiple requests for comment. He had been in Australia for about three years on a visa.

A public fundraising page set up for Gruter has raised $16,000. “This unjust decision by Tony Burke may be unable to be challenged and the least we can all do is take away from the financial burden on him and the distressing move for him and his young family,” the text on the page said.

Several of the donors’ usernames and messages contained Nazi allusions.

The Herald identified Gruter along with other members of the NSN, after the rally on November 8. One, Alex Volvach, is a Russian-educated contractor with a police-issued licence to install and maintain security devices.

Australia Post said it was investigating the potential involvement of one of its employees “as a priority”.

“Australia Post is investigating a team member’s attendance at a rally in Sydney and will take the appropriate level of action once concluded,” a spokeswoman said.

https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/neo-nazi-who-rallied-outside-parliament-taken-into-villawood-detention-centre-20251118-p5ngah.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P06yfanYdbs

>>23860375

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>>23864532

US Senate passes bill to release Epstein files in win for defiant Republicans

Brad Ryan - 19 November 2025

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The US Congress has passed legislation to force the public release of documents from the investigation into late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The bill was backed by all senators just hours after a near-unanimous vote in the House of Representatives, and will now go to President Donald Trump for signing.

Only one Republican voted against the Epstein Files Transparency Act, and all Democrats supported it.

Its passage marks a major win for a small group of Republicans who have defied pressure from the Trump White House to drop their crusade for the Epstein files' release.

It also delivers a victory to Epstein's victims, many of whom suspect he had a powerful network of co-conspirators who have long avoided public exposure and punishment.

Some House Republicans had said they wanted the bill amended by the Senate before its passage.

House Leader Mike Johnson was among those who voted for the bill but said it needed changes to protect "innocent people" named in the files.

But the leader of the Democrats in the Senate, Chuck Schumer, used a congressional manoeuvre to have the bill approved by all senators as soon as the paperwork arrived from the House.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune told US broadcaster CNN the bill will be sent to Mr Trump for his signature on Wednesday morning, local time.

Trump says he will sign Epstein files bill

If it becomes law, the bill will compel the US Department of Justice to publish all unclassified documents relating to its investigation and prosecution of Epstein and his co-offender Ghislaine Maxwell.

Despite the near-unanimous vote, the bill has split Republicans.

Mr Trump fiercely opposed the bill for months, and he labelled longtime ally Marjorie Taylor Greene a "traitor" after she signed a petition supporting it.

On Sunday, local time, he reversed course and told Republicans to vote for the bill so they could move on from the distraction.

Shortly before the House vote, Ms Greene said the Epstein issue had "ripped MAGA apart".

"He called me a traitor for standing with these women and refusing to take my name off the discharge petition," Ms Greene said at a press conference with victims of Epstein.

"Let me tell you what a traitor is. A traitor is an American that serves foreign countries and themselves. A patriot is an American that serves the United States of America and Americans like the women standing behind me."

On Monday, Mr Trump said he would sign the bill into law if it passed Congress.

After the House vote, he said he did not care when the Senate passed it.

"I just don't want Republicans to take their eyes off all of the Victories [sic] that we've had," he wrote on social media.

(continued)

>>23860375

>>23860385

>>23864532

>>23873264

Trump signs bill authorising release of Epstein files

JOE KELLY - 20 November 2025

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Donald Trump has signed into law legislation giving his Attorney-General Pam Bondi 30 days to make publicly available – and downloadable – the release of the Department of Justice files on convicted sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell.

The US President revealed the news on his Truth Social platform on Wednesday evening local time and warned the release of the files would “backfire on the Democrats,” accusing his opponents of using the issue to try and distract from his political achievements.

A sudden reversal at the weekend saw Mr Trump shift from opposing the release of the files to encouraging Republicans to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act, a backflip that saw the bill overwhelmingly pass the House by 427 votes to 1.

Mr Trump said that Epstein, who committed suicide in jail in August 2019 was a “lifelong Democrat” who donated thousands of dollars to Democratic politicians including former president Bill Clinton and his treasury secretary, Larry Summers.

“Democrats have used the ‘Epstein’ issue, which affects them far more than the Republican Party, in order to try and distract from our AMAZING Victories,” he posted on Truth Social. “Perhaps the truth about these Democrats, and their associations with Jeffrey Epstein, will soon be revealed, because I HAVE JUST SIGNED THE BILL TO RELEASE THE EPSTEIN FILES!”

The US President also took greater ownership of the decision, arguing that he “asked Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, to pass this Bill in the House and Senate, respectively. Because of this request, the votes were almost unanimous in favour of passage.”

“At my direction, the Department of Justice has already turned over close to fifty thousand pages of documents to Congress. Do not forget — The Biden Administration did not turn over a SINGLE file or page related to Democrat Epstein, nor did they ever even speak about him,” he said.

Speaking earlier in the day, Democratic Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer warned: “We are not done,” and argued that it was imperative for the Department of Justice to now release the “full unredacted files.”

“No hiding. No game playing. No covering up,” he said.

(continued)

>>23680280 (pb)

>>23759609 (pb)

Grief-stricken families disappointed by Wieambilla coronial findings

Robyn Wuth - Nov 21, 2025

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They were psychotic conspiracy theorists "intent on killing".

But the family behind the Wieambilla shootings that left six people dead were not terrorists, a coroner says.

When police arrived at Gareth, Stacey and Nathaniel Train's property west of Brisbane on December 12 2022, the delusional family believed "war had reached their gates".

The four officers were "no match" for the Trains' high-powered rifles in the ensuing ambush as constables Matthew Arnold, 26, and Rachel McCrow, 29, were gunned down.

Two other officers were forced to retreat after the Trains opened fire from hidden sniper positions within minutes of police lawfully entering the property.

"Tragically, once the shooting commenced, the officers' Glock (service pistols) were woefully inadequate for the purpose of defending themselves or each other," coroner Terry Ryan said in Brisbane.

The Trains later also shot down their neighbour, good Samaritan Alan Dare, when he arrived to investigate.

They were conspiracy theorists driven by their "persecutory" delusions.

"They were psychotically unwell," Ryan said on Friday, handing down his findings almost three years after the ambush that shocked a nation.

"They were … intent on killing the officers and if necessary intent on dying rather than being taken into custody.

"They believed war had reached their gates and they had to defend themselves against the evil attackers in accordance with God's will and, in that way, reach their own salvation."

Ryan said it was not possible to conclude Nathaniel, 46, Gareth, 47, and Stacey, 45, had committed a terrorist act - a finding that left the families of the murdered police officers disappointed.

An inquest last year heard expert evidence the Trains engaged in terrorism that was religiously motivated by their extreme Christian premillennialism faith.

Ryan said he accepted the psychiatric expert evidence on the Trains' motives, saying the trio suffered from a shared delusional disorder.

"They believed police officers were demons intent on killing them," he said.

The Trains were killed hours later in a shootout with specialist police, with Ryan saying authorities had acted appropriately in using lethal force.

The officers' families had asked if the constables could have been protected if they wore new hard-plated body armour.

"I'm not satisfied that additional ballistic protection could have prevented their deaths given the wholly unexpected nature and unprecedented nature of what was in wait," Ryan said.

The constables were adequately trained and equipped for the routine job they expected.

Arnold and McCrow had attended the property with fellow constables Randall Kirk and Keely Brough on behalf of NSW Police.

Nathaniel Train had been reported missing from his state primary school principal job in northern NSW.

A NSW detective had copies of emails in which Gareth Train told his brother police wanted to "see you dead" and vowed to "greet them as they deserve" if they turned up at his property.

Queensland officers would have the opportunity for a more complete risk assessment if they had these emails but it might not have made a difference, Ryan found.

Kirk and Brough narrowly escaped, with the latter hunted by the Trains who lit fires to smoke her out before "incredibly brave" officers volunteered to rescue her.

Dare had called triple zero but was not informed there was an active armed shooter incident before he was shot.

"I do not accept that a failure of Queensland Police to provide relevant information about the risks caused the death," Ryan said.

(continued)

At Manila Dialogue, Contemplating UNCLOS Rights and China's Might

By Euan Graham Published Nov 14, 2025 3:45 PM by The Strategist

Last week’s Manila Dialogue demonstrated that the Philippines is far from cowed or isolated in the face of China’s continued bullying in the South China Sea. But it also highlighted the limitations of transparency as a stand-alone strategy against Beijing’s maritime encroachment. The dialogue’s focus on international law has broader relevance for Australia.

This annual meeting about the South China Sea is a fairly new addition to the regional conference scene. Last week’s iteration, which I attended, was only the second.

It serves, in part, to promote the transparency campaign led by the Philippine Coast Guard, which for more than two years has systematically publicized China’s sustained harassment of Philippine vessels and aircraft within Manila’s exclusive economic zone. Dialogue participants included practitioners and experts from around the region, including several non-government representatives from China.

The transparency campaign has been highly effective at generating international sympathy and support for the Philippines as it grapples with encroachment and harassment by Chinese paramilitary and military forces on a daily basis. In the court of global public opinion, the campaign has provided an effective informational counter to Beijing’s bullying tactics, which are designed to subdue the Philippines and other Southeast Asian states into a state of strategic quiescence.

Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand and several European countries have stepped up security cooperation with Manila under the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos. In parallel, Manila seeks to build up the Philippines’ conventional defenses while deepening military cooperation with like-minded partners. On 2 November, Canada became the latest country to sign a visiting forces agreement with the Philippines. By providing for the presence of signatories’ forces on each other’s territory, such agreements strengthen military cooperation and deterrence.

Sympathy and support for Manila’s plight have been in conspicuously shorter supply in Southeast Asia. Next year, however, the Philippines will host the Association of Southeast Asian Nations summit and other meetings as the grouping’s rotating chair. This gifts Manila a decadal, diplomatic opportunity to channel intra-mural support for its frontline stand in the South China Sea. ASEAN’s external credibility will ride on the grouping’s ability to maintain unity on this internally divisive issue.

At the same time, the Philippines can be under no illusions that transparency has dented China’s determination to continue pressing its claims. In early August, the fratricidal collision of a Chinese destroyer and coast guard vessel in close proximity to a Philippine patrol ship off Scarborough Shoal confirmed Beijing’s willingness to pressure Manila to a reckless degree. Even in the face of clear video evidence to the contrary, poker-faced Chinese participants at the Manila Dialogue maintained that China was exercising restraint, merely reacting to the provocations of others. China is unswayed by reputational damage, relying instead on demonstrations of power and dominance.

A related conference theme was the tension between the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as a legal and normative framework that supports the Philippines’ sovereign equities in the South China Sea, and China’s might-over-right approach despite the illegitimacy of its dashed-line claims. One of UNCLOS’s guiding principles, that land dominates the sea, naturally favors Southeast Asia’s maritime geography over China’s as a basis for jurisdiction in the South China Sea. International law gives maritime Southeast Asia its best shot at inoculation from the alternative of an expansionist China dominating its strategic future.

The key shortcoming of international law is weak enforcement. Even without a law-of-the-sea police force to patrol the South China Sea, littoral states in Southeast Asia can still improve their position by bringing national laws into conformity with UNCLOS. Vietnam has already made progress here. So too has the Philippines, last year enacting two new laws delineating its maritime zones and designating sea lanes for international passage through its archipelago. These laws involved compromises on the part of Vietnam and the Philippines, as coastal states. But conformity with international law enhances their collective stake in the rules-based order and simplifies the problem of enforcement for national agencies, and potentially for international partners.

The defense of international law and UNCLOS have become key points in Australia’s strategic policy and regional narrative—something that resonates with Minister for Defence Richard Marles. Close partners such as the Philippines, Indonesia, Fiji and Papua New Guinea, as archipelagic states, owe not only their exclusive marine resource rights, but their basic territorial integrity and sovereignty over water, to UNCLOS’s existence. UNCLOS is a key pillar of the regional rules-based order, not only for Western countries interested in freedom of navigation, but also for developing, formerly colonized states for which maritime porosity was historically their main strategic weakness.

This helps to explain why Australia emphases UNCLOS to the extent that it does in its definition of the regional order. As a signatory to UNCLOS, China doesn’t ignore it. Rather, Beijing picks the principles that suit its national interests and ignores the parts that don’t. If China tramples on the sovereignty of large, archipelagic states, such as Indonesia and the Philippines, it could face a more concerted response than it has bargained for.

However, just as the Philippines needs to think beyond its transparency campaign, Australia should be careful not to wrap its strategic narrative too tightly around international law. Coercive and destabilizing behavior can still be consistent with international law. China’s military air and sea patrols around Taiwan have demonstrated this, along with its near-encirclement of Australia earlier this year. Applying a law-enforcement or excessively legalistic mindset to a strategic problem such as China may be a losing game from a deterrence perspective.

https://maritime-executive.com/editorials/at-manila-dialogue-contemplating-unclos-rights-and-china-s-might

Hanson suspended from Senate for wearing a burqa in the chamber

Nick Newling - November 24, 2025

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Pauline Hanson has been suspended from the Senate after she wore a burqa into the chamber on Monday afternoon, the second time in her parliamentary career she has performed the stunt, prompting a formal rebuke from Labor Senate leader Penny Wong and Coalition Senate leader Anne Ruston.

The One Nation leader’s decision to wear the head covering came minutes after she was denied leave by independent senator Tammy Tyrell to table a bill to have burqas and full-face coverings banned in Australia, a policy she has campaigned on for decades.

There was uproar in the Senate in the moments after Hanson entered the chamber.

Immediately as Hanson entered the chamber, members of the Greens and the crossbench began to protest.

“She is disrespecting a faith … This needs to be dealt with immediately before we proceed,” Senator Fatima Payman said.

Independent senator Lidia Thorpe rose to her feet and yelled out: “This can’t be happening. Get this racist woman out of here now. Get her out. Get her out … who’s in charge here?” Thorpe then vowed to shut down proceedings until Hanson was removed.

“Racism should not be the choice of the Senate. This is a racist senator,” Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi said. Hanson is currently appealing a Federal Court ruling that she racially vilified Faruqi last year.

The acting chair, Slade Brockman, found initially that Hanson’s dress was allowed, and proceedings were not stopped, but Senate President Sue Lines rushed back to the chamber after news of the stunt broke, to hear Wong and Ruston condemn the actions and ask that Hanson be removed.

Wong had asked Lines to rule that Hanson’s conduct was disorderly, quoting former Liberal senator George Brandis, who rebuked the One Nation leader the last time she wore the garment on the Senate floor.

“All of us in this place. Have a great privilege and we represent in our states people of every faith … and we should do so decently,” Wong said. “The sort of disrespect that you are engaging in now is not worthy of a member of the Australian Senate.”

Hanson was ordered to remove the item and leave the chamber or face suspension, and the Senate voted overwhelmingly to have her removed. She was suspended for the rest of the day.

Hanson was heard saying to Lines: “You are so vile, you are not doing your job properly.”

Hanson then left the chamber with her One Nation colleagues, having worn the burqa for almost 20 minutes. She remained defiant about her provocation following her suspension.

“They are a hypocritical bloody mob in there that have actually taken a stance without debating it and putting it to the vote,” Hanson told journalists after the Senate was suspended.

“They’ve said to the Australian people, we don’t care about you. It is a national security issue. It is about women’s rights.”

Faruqi also spoke after the suspension, saying she did not feel comfortable in the chamber.

“Muslim women in this country have been persecuted for a long time now, the racist abuse that Muslim women have faced over decades, fuelled by One Nation, but also the dog whistling of other politicians in other major parties has meant that we feel unsafe,” Faruqi said.

Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce, who is openly considering defecting to One Nation, defended Hanson’s choice, saying: “People are free to express themselves politically and you are free to interpret it any way you wish.”

Nationals senator Matt Canavan, one of the Coalition’s most conservative MPs, slammed Hanson and argued it was a desperate, attention-seeking stunt.

Canavan said respectful points could be made about migration, but Hanson was acting improperly.

“Don’t vote for them … They only live if you give them attention and look at them,” Canavan said on ABC TV.

“I don’t like this type of politics. This is disrespectful to Muslim Australians. I don’t support ridiculing people.”

(continued)

>>23895370

Pauline Hanson barred from parliament for seven days after latest burqa stunt, but refuses to say sorry

The One Nation leader has been called out for her ‘hateful and shallow pageantry’, but refuses to apologise.

Tess Ikonomou - 25 November 2025

Pauline Hanson has been barred from parliament after she refused to apologise for wearing a burqa in the Senate.

The One Nation leader entered the upper house on Monday afternoon wearing the religious garment shortly after failing to move a bill banning the Islamic covering from public places.

Senator Hanson was on Tuesday formally censured in the upper house, which called on her to apologise for her stunt.

After she doubled down on the move, she was suspended from the Senate for seven days, with the current sitting week being the final one for the year.

Censure motions do not have any legal consequences but they are rare, and give parliamentarians the chance to formally express their disapproval of colleagues.

Senator Hanson denied that she did not have respect for people of faith, claiming the religious covering had been imposed on women by their male relatives.

“The burqa is culturally worn by some people of Islamic faith, but it is not a religious requirement,” she said.

“It’s so hypocritical, see that you’re supposed to be defending women’s rights, but you’re not going out there and fighting for these women (who) wear this burqa, full face coverings when it’s against their will.”

Senator Hanson walked out before a vote on suspending her could be held.

Earlier, Foreign Minister Penny Wong told the Senate her child had asked her if all Christians hated Muslims following the incident.

In response, United Australia Party senator Ralph Babet called out “I do”.

Senator Wong said the stunt had mocked and vilified an entire faith, while causing “cruel consequences” for the most vulnerable.

“Senator Hanson’s hateful and shallow pageantry tears at our social fabric, and I believe it makes Australia weaker,” she said.

Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie said the nation needed honest and respectful debate that didn’t appropriate religious symbols for political purposes.

Independent senator Fatima Payman, who quit Labor over its stance on Palestine, said the behaviour left others feeling unsafe.

“This is … an old trick that Pauline Hanson’s pulled out of the bag. Very disrespectful, very un-Australian,” she told ABC News

Senator Payman, a Muslim, said the stunt could lead to schoolgirls and women wearing hijabs being abused or assaulted.

Cabinet minister Tanya Plibersek pointed to the issue of growing right-wing extremism in Australia.

“I don’t remember the last time someone in a burqa robbed a bank, but I do recall a couple of weeks ago that there was a queue of neo-Nazis standing outside NSW Parliament,” she told ABC radio.

It’s the second time Senator Hanson has worn the burqa inside the parliament.

After first attempting the stunt in the upper house in 2017, Senator Hanson was slammed by then attorney-general George Brandis, who labelled it an “appalling thing to do”.

Brandis labelled the latest incident “despicable”.

“Every once in a while, she dreams up a new stunt to try and make herself the centre of political attention and discussion,” he told ABC radio.

“It reminds people both that the One Nation party has absolutely nothing to offer the Australian people, but also that the kind of politics they practice are ugly and divisive politics.”

Redbridge Group director and former Victorian Labor strategist Kos Samaras said the “permanent problem for right-wing populist outfits is that protest is easy”.

It comes amid speculation Barnaby Joyce will join One Nation after the disaffected Nationals MP dined with Hanson on Monday night.

https://7news.com.au/news/pauline-hanson-barred-from-parliament-for-seven-days-after-latest-burqa-stunt-but-refuses-to-say-sorry-c-20786805

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6PeyIvOQw0Q