The lack of moderates in the Liberals’ succession list is notable, given Christopher Pyne’s ill-judged boast to the faction that it was in the ‘winners’ circle’.
Community leaders will play a very important role in whipping votes for or against in the same-sex marriage plebiscite.
AAP/Alan Porritt
Tony Abbott, who resoundingly won an election being “Dr No”, will bring all his formidable attack skills to trying to kill the push to change the definition of marriage. In a pitch that sees him lined…
Throughout Australian history, previous parliaments have changed the legal understanding of marriage – none needed a plebiscite.
AAP/Lukas Coch
Three years ago The Australian newspaper launched a broadside at the Bureau of Meteorology. But when it did it again this week, it seemed to get less traction from the top echelons of government.
Warren Entsch said he was astounded and offended by a letter sent to Queensland LNP members attacking MPs who publicly support same-sex marriage.
Mick Tsikas/AAP
If the push for change lost in the Liberal party room, would the rebels abide by the decision, or would they cross the floor when, for example, there was a move by Labor for a vote in parliament?
Donald Trump constantly invoked the idea of political correctness gone mad in his presidential campaign.
Reuters/Scott Morgan
Even if Malcolm Turnbull brought Tony Abbott into cabinet, which he won’t, it would likely eventually end in tears.
Malcolm Turnbull’s speech reminded his Liberal colleagues that he has not stolen the party and his leadership is legitimately Liberal.
Reuters/Hannah Mckay
Malcolm Turnbull’s claim that Robert Menzies’ party was meant to be one of the ‘sensible centre’ has some validity – but it may also be that that centre has shifted significantly, too.
For his own good, Malcolm Turnbull can’t get out of the country quickly enough. He’s off on Wednesday to the G20 in Germany and, if he has any sense, while he’s abroad he’ll try to avoid being drawn on…
As this year ebbs away, Malcolm Turnbull’s hold on the leadership will become more precarious if there is no lift in those relentless Newspolls.
The Liberal Party contains moderates like George Brandis, Christopher Pyne and Malcolm Turnbull, and conservatives such as Tony Abbott, Eric Abetz and Peter Dutton.
AAP/The Conversation
With fringe right parties feasting on the margins of conservative political discontent in Australia, deeper questions are being asked about whether the Liberal Party itself is at risk.
Tony Abbott has made the most of media opportunities this week to push his agenda.
Dan Hembrechts/AAP
As the Liberals fight and manoeuvre, the Nationals are watching on appalled, privately wondering at Turnbull’s inability to control even his moderate supporters, let alone his party as a whole.