News

Labor's federal election campaign hangs in the balance as the Reserve Bank's interest rate decision looms, with rising mortgage costs putting pressure on key electorates in Melbourne and Perth. The party faces a tough battle to retain seats in these areas, particularly as they are also experiencing high levels of financial stress.

The re-elected Labor government has pledged $1 billion to secure a rail corridor connecting Sydney's south-western suburbs to the new Western Sydney Airport, aiming to complete a "missing link" in the city's rail network and improve connectivity for residents and businesses in the region. This investment will pave the way for future development and ensure the corridor is protected for future rail expansion.

Australia's Labor government has strongly condemned Donald Trump's decision to impose tariffs on Australian steel and aluminium, calling it an "unjustified" and "unfriendly act." This marks a significant shift in the relationship between the two countries, with the government banking on voters understanding that Trump is more willing to risk damaging alliances in pursuit of his agenda.

Gretel Oliver and Lowana Schmucker, two female carpenters in Port Lincoln, South Australia, are working to break down barriers for women in the construction industry and inspire others to pursue careers in the field. Despite facing challenges, they believe that attitudinal shifts and increased diversity are crucial for attracting more women to the industry.

Australia's ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd, has vowed to continue pushing for better trade relations with the US, despite the recent refusal by the US to grant a tariff exemption to Australia on steel and aluminium imports. This decision has caused a political storm in Australia, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese labelling it "not the way to treat a friend" and "entirely unjustified".