The date of the next Australian federal election is still unconfirmed, but it has to be held by May 17
Federal Politics
Bipartisan commitments to boost Medicare cement health as leading election issue
A landmark bipartisan pledge to invest in Medicare aims to ensure nine in 10 visits to the doctor will be free within the decade, with a bigger boost for rural doctors.
Grim picture of dismal health care and higher death rates in regional areas
Rural, regional and remote Australians are dying at higher rates than their urban counterparts according to new data released today
Polling points to Coalition win but independents likely to decide the election
Labor has a mountain to climb to prevent Peter Dutton from forming government at the next election, with polling predicting outer suburbs of Sydney to change hands.
More doctors go to the country, but hospitals still squeezed
Emergency departments at regional hospitals are under immense pressure, despite more specialist doctors working in the regions.
Calls for change 17 years on from national apology
For some, the anniversary of the apology to Stolen Generations is a source of pride. For others it is a reminder of the “dire” reality for Indigenous children.
Taxpayers take risk on Rex if ailing airline can’t sell
Experts are questioning why taxpayers should be placed on the hook for bailing out Rex through a government takeover if buyers are unwilling to take the risk.
Country Mayors urge Federal Government to restore critical Local Council funding
NSW Country Mayors Association is warning that declining financial support is placing rural and regional councils under extreme pressure.
Laura Hughes stands for ALP again in New England
Tamworth local Laura Hughes has been announced as the ALP candidate for the seat of New England in the upcoming federal election. But the electorate is very different this time around…
Newspoll: Coalition with edge among voters ahead of election
Most voters expect the coalition to win the upcoming federal election, a new poll has shown, as the opposition increases its lead over the government.