The Fair Work Act now grants most Australian workers the "right to disconnect," empowering them to switch off from work outside of their regular hours. This means employees have the right not to answer calls or emails from their boss about non-urgent matters on their days off, unless it's a genuine emergency.
Peter Dutton, if elected Prime Minister, would prioritize a meeting with Donald Trump to find common ground on issues like deregulation and defense. He also criticizes China's recent naval exercises near Australia as an "obvious show of force" and opposes sending Australian troops to Ukraine as peacekeepers, arguing it would divert resources from regional priorities.
The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) is a government program that helps Australians access essential medications at an affordable price by negotiating set prices with pharmaceutical companies and subsidizing the cost of expensive medications. Both major political parties have recently announced plans to further reduce the cost of PBS-listed medications, making them even more accessible to Australians.
South Australian MP Troy Stephen Bell, found guilty of stealing over $430,000 from educational organizations, awaits sentencing while appealing the verdict. Bell's defense argues for a delayed sentence due to potential by-election costs and his continued service to constituents, while the prosecution emphasizes the seriousness of the offenses and the need for deterrence.
WA Liberal leader Libby Mettam has announced she will not seek re-election, paving the way for incoming Churchlands MLA Basil Zempilas to contest the leadership. Zempilas, a former Perth Lord Mayor, has confirmed his intention to run for the position, emphasizing the need for a strong and united party to challenge the Labor government in 2029.