News

The Reserve Bank of Australia will decide on interest rate cuts in February based on Wednesday's inflation figures, with the government hoping for relief before the May election. However, the RBA is also closely watching the strong jobs market and household spending, which will be clearer before the next meeting in early April.

The Liberal Party has declared victory in the by-election for the New South Wales seat of Port Macquarie, with ex-services club general manager Robert Dwyer defeating National Party rival Sean Gleeson. The Nationals conceded defeat, citing a short campaign period and the impact of independent candidate Warwick Yonge.

A protest against the salmon farming industry was held in Tasmania following the discovery of salmon residue on beaches, believed to be the result of a mass mortality event. The protest highlighted concerns about the industry's environmental impact, animal welfare practices, and lack of transparency.

Meredith Hammat, a union veteran and advocate for workers' rights; Jessica Stojkovski, daughter of a former Labor MP and champion for family-friendly policies; and Matthew Swinbourn, a passionate advocate for assisted dying and environmental protection. The new cabinet, led by Premier Roger Cook, will prioritize supporting workers and families while navigating the challenges of a globalized and uncertain world.

President Trump's aggressive tariff policies have sparked a global trade war, leading to economic uncertainty, market instability, and rising consumer costs in the United States. Despite widespread criticism and concerns about the long-term consequences, the Trump administration remains steadfast in its belief that the trade war will ultimately benefit the American economy.