While there has been talk of a “religious vote” or an “ethnic vote” holding sway at this election, particularly in Sydney’s western suburbs, new research does not bear that out.
Emil Jeyaratnam, The Conversation and Justin Bergman, The Conversation
From Bill Shorten to Kristina Keneally, our experts break down Labor’s new shadow ministry – who’s in, who’s been promoted, and who faces the greatest challenges in their new roles
The Chinese government tightly controls all mention of the 1989 pro-democracy protests, but in recent days, it’s been very open with its justifications for the brutal crackdown.
Kate C. Prickett, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington
When thousands of New Zealand children were asked what well-being meant for them, most wanted enough money for basics, good relationships and to be free from bullying, racism and discrimination.
Under the New Zealand government’s well-being approach to the budget, funding that will help reduce emissions is linked with economic development and innovation.
It’s critical that the Australian government take a new direction in refugee policy and move beyond its tired rhetoric of deterrence as a justification for detaining refugees on Nauru and Manus.
Pacific countries are eager for assistance in securing their future, whether sourced from old friends like the US and Australia, or new enthusiasts like the Chinese.
Dougal Sutherland, Te Herenga Waka — Victoria University of Wellington
The New Zealand government has put a record NZ$1.9 billion mental health package at the centre of its well-being budget. It’s a welcome step in the right direction.
While the new minister has the chance to make a real difference, unrealistic expectations of him should be tempered- real change will take not just the whole government, but the nation.
The new Labor leader is from the party’s left wing, which the government and some media will try to exploit. But Anthony Albanese’s way through this is with policies and leadership.
Despite low crime rates, indiscriminate mass stabbings aren’t unheard of in Japan. But unlike recent mass killings in Western countries, they aren’t motivated by right-wing ideology.
While Scott Morrison has touted the record seven women in his cabinet, the overall representation of women in parliament has barely improved since the last election in 2016.
Emil Jeyaratnam, The Conversation; Shelley Hepworth, The Conversation, and Justin Bergman, The Conversation
Scott Morrison’s new ministry includes a few new faces and several new roles for familiar cabinet members. Our experts take a closer look at each portfolio.
Scott Morrison has been PM for nearly a year, but his foreign policy priorities remain unclear. With his mandate secured, he now has both the opportunity and obligation to show his true colours.
There are the real challenges facing Papua New Guinea, and the current leadership crisis in Port Moresby may or may not not produce a meaningful response to them.
The high cost of dental treatment is stopping almost half of all New Zealanders from seeking care when they need it. Funding at least parts of dental care publicly could change that.
Christian leaders warned of ‘persecution’ with a Labor government. Now that the Coalition has won the election, conservative Christians may demand Morrison deliver on more of their agenda.
Most mothers want some continuity with their pre-maternal identity, to feel a sense of meaningful contribution to their society, and to enjoy their relationships with their children.
While the riots in Jakarta have been brought under control, the deeper religious tensions that have polarised Indonesia will present a major challenge for Jokowi’s second term.
For New Zealand’s first well-being budget, the government has moved away from traditional economic growth measures to focus on goals like cultural identity, social connection and happiness.