Sussan Ley Urges Parliamentary Inquiry into Senator Thorpe’s ‘Burn Down Parliament House’ Statement
Krishani Dhanji
Opposition leader Sussan Ley has called on the presiding officers of parliament to scrutinize the validity of independent Senator Lidia Thorpe‘s declaration at a Melbourne pro-Gaza demonstration, where Thorpe stated she would “burn down” Parliament House.
On Monday, the Australian Federal Police announced they would examine whether Thorpe’s comments at the rally violated any laws.
In a formal letter addressed to the Senate president and the Speaker of the House, Ley insisted that parliament conduct its own inquiry into the seriousness of the threat and the broader consequences of Thorpe’s remarks.
“Our national unity is under strain from radical ideologies and international conflicts. It is imperative that elected officials avoid provocative language that could inflame those who cannot distinguish between metaphorical speech and actual incitement,” Ley wrote.
The letter was co-signed by Ley and the shadow foreign minister, Michaelia Cash.
Responding on Monday, Thorpe clarified that her statement was “obviously a metaphor” and criticized the “feigned outrage” that ensued.
The Reserve Bank of Australia’s recent board meeting minutes reveal that discussions about potential future interest rate reductions were notably absent. When the board convened two weeks ago, there was a consensus that no immediate rate cuts were necessary, especially following the August reduction which had already eased mortgage burdens and coincided with stronger-than-anticipated household spending.
ANZ economist Adelaide Timbrell highlighted that unlike the August meeting-where the board considered the likely trajectory of cash rate decreases-this latest session did not reference any forthcoming cuts. The board appeared split on the economic outlook: some members viewed household expenditure and economic momentum as robust enough to negate the need for further easing, while others remained cautious, pointing to sluggish employment growth, subdued wage increases, and puzzlingly low consumer confidence.
“Members agreed that there were still risks on both sides of the forecast and debated their relative importance.”
Commonwealth Bank economist Belinda Allen emphasized that only an unexpected spike in unemployment or a significant drop in inflation would justify a rate cut. She noted,
“Evidence is building that the onus will be on the data to prove why further rate cuts are needed for the Australian economy.”
In summary, the Reserve Bank’s latest minutes suggest a cautious stance, with policymakers awaiting clearer economic signals before considering any adjustments to interest rates.
Following escalating tensions with the United States over recent weeks, Venezuela has announced a diplomatic restructuring that includes the closure of its embassies in Norway and Australia. According to an official statement from the Venezuelan government, this move is part of a “strategic reallocation of resources,” aimed at establishing new diplomatic missions in two allied nations that share a commitment to anti-colonialism and resisting hegemonic influence.
Consular assistance for Venezuelan citizens residing in Norway and Australia will now be managed through other diplomatic posts, with further details expected to be released shortly.
This development comes shortly after the Nobel Committee in Oslo awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize to Venezuelan opposition figure Maria Corina Machado for her efforts to promote democracy in Venezuela. Machado dedicated her award to then-US President Donald Trump, highlighting the complex political dynamics between Venezuela and the United States.
In response to recent US military actions targeting vessels near its Caribbean coastline-accused by Washington of drug trafficking-Venezuela has appealed to the United Nations for support. Some members of the UN Security Council, including US allies, have urged for de-escalation and diplomatic dialogue to ease the rising tensions.
President Nicolas Maduro has expressed concerns about the possibility of an imminent armed assault on Venezuela, accusing the US of attempting to orchestrate a regime change. While the US has not directly addressed these allegations, it continues to label Maduro’s government as an illegitimate narco-state. Additionally, the US has announced the creation of a new counter-narcotics task force within its Southern Command, which oversees military operations in Latin America.
Related: Venezuela shuts down embassy in Oslo following Nobel Peace Prize awarded to opposition leader
Photograph: Leonardo Fernández Viloria/Reuters
Search Efforts Continue for Missing Hiker in Tasmania’s Remote Wilderness
Authorities have resumed their search for Daryl Fong, a hiker reported missing in Tasmania’s Mount Field National Park. The ongoing operation aims to locate him in the rugged terrain of the region.
Man Detained in Melbourne CBD Following Alleged Carjacking Incidents
Police apprehended a man in Melbourne’s central business district this morning after a series of alleged carjackings occurred in the suburbs of Tarneit and North Melbourne. The suspect was reportedly armed with a firearm at the time of arrest.
He is currently in custody and undergoing questioning. Authorities are expected to release further details about the case shortly.
Two Years After the Voice to Parliament Referendum: Reflections and Ongoing Challenges
Leaders from the Uluru Dialogue, Megan Davis and Pat Anderson, have marked the second anniversary of the unsuccessful Voice to Parliament referendum held on 14 October 2023. They emphasize that despite the setback, the quest for constitutional recognition and meaningful Indigenous engagement remains vital.
“Although the referendum outcome was disheartening for many Australians, especially for Indigenous communities who largely supported it, this is not the end of the journey,” said Davis and Anderson.
“The movement now includes 6.2 million Australians across 151 electorates and all political parties. This invitation to participate in shaping the future remains open to all citizens.”
However, they note that progress has been limited since the vote:
“First Nations peoples continue to lack a genuine voice, which is reflected in the persistent and widening disparities they face.”
“Closing the Gap statistics show little improvement, and delays in data reporting hinder accurate assessment.”
“The federal government’s approach, involving numerous Indigenous incorporated bodies funded by taxpayers, has led to increased bureaucracy and Canberra-centric control, despite responsibilities being devolved to states and territories.”
Despite these challenges, Davis and Anderson reaffirm their dedication to advancing Indigenous rights and wellbeing.
“Losing the Voice Referendum is part of the political process. The future is ours to influence, and we will not abandon this cause.”
Environment Minister Murray Watt spoke with ABC News Breakfast from Adelaide this morning, where he and South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas are set to unveil a comprehensive summer strategy aimed at combating the ongoing algal bloom crisis.
This initiative represents a collaborative effort between federal and state governments, with a combined investment of $102.5 million, supplementing over $30 million already allocated to address the issue.
Watt shared his insights:
“Last night, I attended a community forum in Aldinga, located about 45 minutes to an hour south of Adelaide, to engage directly with residents. Understandably, there is significant concern about the summer ahead. Communities are looking to government bodies for support, and that is precisely what we are committed to providing. Additionally, there is a strong demand for accurate and transparent information.”
“Regrettably, misinformation about the causes and potential effects of the bloom has circulated, making it crucial to clarify the facts. Scientists caution that the duration of this event remains unpredictable. Encouragingly, the bloom has largely dissipated in areas outside Adelaide, such as Kangaroo Island, which is a positive sign. While the marine ecosystem has been affected, daily life for most people remains largely unchanged, which is reassuring.”
“However, metropolitan beaches in Adelaide continue to experience impacts. Similar events worldwide have shown that predicting their persistence is challenging, underscoring the necessity for ongoing government support as we are providing.”
Shadow Treasurer Ted O’Brien hailed the recent amendments to the superannuation tax policy as a significant win for “ordinary Australians who faced unfair taxation under the previous government plan.”
Speaking on RN Breakfast, O’Brien emphasized, “This is fundamentally a triumph for everyday people.”
He warned that the original government proposal on indexation would have ensnared “millions of Australians in a tax trap,” explaining:
“Over time, as incomes rise, what might seem like a substantial superannuation balance today would become commonplace in 10, 20, or 30 years.”
While the Coalition continues to review its economic policies, O’Brien refrained from commenting on whether future plans would include further indexation adjustments.
Meanwhile, Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles echoed Foreign Minister Penny Wong in acknowledging Donald Trump for facilitating the release of all remaining Israeli hostages from Gaza.
During an interview on Channel Nine’s Today show, Marles remarked:
“Credit must be given to President Trump and his administration. This remarkable achievement will be remembered historically. Now is the time to build on this progress and strive for lasting peace in the Middle East.”
When questioned about the possibility of Australia deploying troops to Gaza in line with the US, Marles responded cautiously:
“We have not received any such requests, and I won’t speculate beyond saying that we aim to remain constructive, as we have been over the past two years. Ultimately, it is incumbent upon all parties to fully commit to this plan to ensure its durability.”
Leading medical and pharmaceutical organizations in Australia have urged the health minister to take immediate measures to prevent the misuse of medicinal cannabis prescriptions.
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) alongside the Pharmacy Guild of Australia have jointly addressed Health Minister Mark Butler, emphasizing the need to regulate the rapid and largely unchecked rise in medicinal cannabis prescribing and dispensing nationwide.
In their submissions to the regulatory body’s review on the safety and oversight of unapproved medicinal cannabis products, both entities advocate for mandatory registration of all medicinal cannabis products used outside of exceptional access schemes, reserving special pathways strictly for genuine cases.
Professor Trent Twomey, president of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, expressed concern:
The current system is vulnerable to exploitation, with prescriptions being issued without adequate clinical supervision, and patients circumventing their usual general practitioners and pharmacists. What was initially intended as a special access route for medication has now become commonplace, with thousands of products prescribed absent of safety, quality, or efficacy standards.
—
Foreign Minister Penny Wong has hailed the Gaza ceasefire as a remarkable accomplishment by Donald Trump, coinciding with the release of the first hostages back to Israel on Monday.
In an interview with ABC News, Wong described the day as profoundly emotional and a significant relief for communities in both Israel and Australia.
This represents a unique achievement by President Trump. Only the U.S. president could have facilitated this outcome. As I mentioned last Friday, he deserves substantial praise. This is a major breakthrough, the likes of which we haven’t witnessed in the Middle East for quite some time. He has effectively paused the conflict and paved a hopeful path toward peace, which he has been instrumental in outlining.
Wong also highlighted the release of thousands of Palestinians from Israeli detention as a crucial element of the peace agreement.
When questioned about Australia’s potential involvement in future peacekeeping or monitoring missions in the region, Wong stated that Australia has not yet been invited to participate.
We have not received any requests, so I won’t speculate prematurely. Our consistent approach has been to contribute positively to advancing peace, and that remains our stance.
—
Australian enterprises are experiencing escalating financial losses due to cyber threats, as the nation’s premier cyber intelligence agency warns of increasing risks from ransomware and identity theft, according to Australian Associated Press.
Despite a slight decline in the number of cybercrime reports, the Australian Signals Directorate’s (ASD) annual cyber threat report reveals that the financial damage to businesses is intensifying.
Last financial year, the average cost of cybercrime for large corporations surged to $202,700, marking a 219% increase compared to the previous year.
Medium-sized businesses faced an average loss of $97,200, while small businesses incurred costs averaging $56,571.
The ASD received 84,700 cybercrime reports over the past year, a 3% decrease from the prior period.
Director-General Abigail Bradshaw emphasized that ransomware and identity fraud remain the most prevalent and disruptive cyber threats.
“Australia is increasingly targeted by cybercriminals aiming to steal credentials,” Bradshaw explained. “Once they gain access, they imitate legitimate user behavior to extract sensitive personal or corporate data, deploy ransomware or malware, and hijack accounts.”
She noted that unauthorized access is more frequently achieved through compromised or stolen credentials rather than traditional hacking methods.
Recently, Qantas customers had their personal information exposed on the dark web by cybercriminals. For more details, see: Five million Qantas customers have had personal information leaked on the dark web. Here’s what you need to know.
—
Treasurer Jim Chalmers revealed that he consulted former Labor Prime Minister Paul Keating multiple times while finalizing the federal government’s revised superannuation tax reforms.
On Monday, the Albanese administration withdrew its controversial proposal targeting unrealized capital gains after facing widespread criticism.
Keating, who originally designed Australia’s superannuation system and had opposed Chalmers’ initial plan, praised the updated approach as a “significant policy success.”
Speaking on ABC’s 7.30 program, Chalmers acknowledged the importance of Keating’s insights and feedback:
As I was finalizing this package for the expenditure review committee, I probably spoke with him about six times in the latter half of last week alone.
Chalmers emphasized that the government has responded to concerns by crafting a fairer and more sustainable superannuation framework:
It’s crucial that we make these tax concessions sustainable and take the necessary, albeit difficult, steps to protect the system’s future. These changes are responsible and pragmatic.
New Parliamentary Friends Group Formed to Drive Urban Policy Innovation
Tom McIlroy
Australia’s major city committees have united to establish a pioneering parliamentary friends group focused on urban development.
This new alliance, spearheaded by independent MP Kate Chaney, Liberal member Simon Kennedy, and Labor Senator Richard Dowling, aims to embed long-term, place-based urban strategies within federal legislative discussions.
Designed to foster bipartisan cooperation, the Parliamentary Friends of Cities group will champion a broad spectrum of urban issues, leveraging cross-party support to enhance the livability and economic vitality of Australia’s metropolitan areas.
The initiative is backed by the Committee for Capital Cities, representing Sydney, Greater Hobart, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, and Brisbane, alongside the Council of Capital City Lord Mayors.
Given that capital cities accommodate two-thirds of Australia’s population and workforce, contributing approximately 70% of the nation’s GDP, the group prioritizes challenges such as affordable housing, attracting international talent, fostering innovation, and cultivating skilled labor markets.
“The Parliamentary Friends of Cities is about practical collaboration beyond party lines. Our goal is to make cities more productive, better connected, and more enjoyable places to live and work,” said Simon Kennedy.
Kate Chaney emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts across government levels to support sustainable urban growth:
“Creating sustainable and vibrant cities for the future requires cooperation across all tiers of government and attentiveness to community needs. I look forward to uniting diverse perspectives to build prosperous cities of all sizes.”
Sussan Ley Urges Parliamentary Inquiry into Senator Thorpe’s ‘Burn Down Parliament’ Statement
Krishani Dhanji
Opposition leader Sussan Ley has called on parliamentary authorities to investigate the veracity and implications of independent Senator Lidia Thorpe‘s declaration at a Melbourne pro-Gaza demonstration, where Thorpe stated she would “burn down” Parliament House.
The Australian Federal Police have already announced an inquiry into whether Thorpe’s remarks violated any laws.
In a formal letter addressed to the Senate President and House Speaker, Ley stressed the necessity for Parliament to conduct its own examination of the threat and its potential consequences.
“Our social fabric is under strain from extreme ideologies and international conflicts. It is incumbent upon parliamentarians to avoid incendiary rhetoric that could provoke those unable to distinguish between metaphor and incitement,” Ley wrote.
The letter was co-signed by shadow foreign minister Michaelia Cash.
Senator Thorpe responded by clarifying that her statement was metaphorical and criticized the “mock outrage” it generated.
Search Resumes for Missing Tasmanian Man in Hollybank Forest
Authorities will recommence efforts to locate 76-year-old Peter Willoughby, who vanished while hiking in Tasmania’s Hollybank forest reserve.
The Northern Search and Rescue unit of Tasmania Police, supported by SES volunteers, plans to resume the search on Wednesday, focusing on areas both previously explored and new terrain south of Willoughby’s last known whereabouts.
Willoughby was reported missing on 5 October after setting out for a walk in dense bushland near Scottsdale.
“Despite thorough search operations since his disappearance, no evidence or clues have emerged to indicate his location,” police stated.
Search activities were temporarily halted due to adverse weather conditions that posed safety risks.
Inspector Nick Clark highlighted the commitment of around 30 personnel and the logistical support from Sustainable Timber Tasmania in the ongoing search, while expressing serious concerns for Willoughby’s wellbeing given the time elapsed.
Two Senior Executives Step Down Amid Affinity Education Group Scandal
Adeshola Ore
In the wake of serious child sexual abuse allegations against a former employee, two top executives of the troubled childcare provider Affinity Education Group have resigned.
Chief Executive Officer Tim Hickey and Chief Operating Officer Nishad Alani have both left the company, according to an official statement.
The board has appointed Glen Hurley, senior advisor for compliance and quality, as the new CEO.
“Affinity remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering safe, high-quality care and supporting our dedicated staff who nurture and educate children with compassion and integrity,” the company affirmed.
Former employee Joshua Brown faces over 70 charges related to alleged child sexual abuse, having worked at 11 Affinity centres in Victoria during 2024.
Assessment Underway After Australian Antarctic Division Vessel Contacts Seafloor
The Australian Antarctic Division’s flagship icebreaker, RSV Nuyina, experienced an incident when it touched the seabed near Heard Island during seafloor mapping operations.
As the primary supply and research vessel for Australia’s Antarctic and sub-Antarctic stations, the Nuyina plays a crucial role in scientific exploration of the Southern Ocean.
The contact occurred at 1502 (UTC+6), causing a minor vibration felt onboard but no injuries.
“There is no risk to passengers or crew. The vessel has since moved to deeper waters, and a thorough inspection is underway to check for any damage to the hull or underwater equipment,” a spokesperson said.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority is collaborating with the Antarctic Division during the evaluation, and all operations have been temporarily suspended to prioritize safety.
Luca Ittimani
SpaceX Starship splashdown delays Qantas flight in Indian Ocean
This morning, the latest SpaceX Starship mission concluded with a splashdown in the Indian Ocean, causing a brief delay to a Qantas international flight.
Elon Musk observed as SpaceX’s Starship completed its eleventh test launch from Texas, successfully deploying Starlink satellites before returning to Earth, according to the company’s statement.
The rocket autonomously navigated to a designated splashdown area in the Indian Ocean. Footage of the landing reveals Starship descending nose-up before detonating as planned.
SpaceX is now focusing on upgrading its fleet to orbital-capable models. Company commentators on the live stream highlighted Starship’s potential to revolutionize travel by enabling journeys anywhere on the globe within an hour:
“It’s going to be remarkable. Imagine traveling from New York to Sydney in just one hour instead of the current 20-hour flight.”
Meanwhile, the test flight caused a 15-minute delay for a Qantas flight from London to Perth, as pilots adjusted their route, a Qantas spokesperson confirmed.
No other Qantas flights were affected or expected to be impacted by the launch.
SpaceX’s test launches have previously disrupted international air traffic, as detailed in this related article:
Related: Qantas South Africa flights delayed by falling debris from SpaceX rockets, airline says
Creative Australia Grants $100,000 to Artist Khaled Sabsabi
By Dee Jefferson
Creative Australia has awarded a $100,000 grant to Khaled Sabsabi, the Lebanese Australian artist from Western Sydney who was initially removed and later reinstated as Australia’s representative for the 2026 Venice Biennale by the government’s arts funding body.
This funding, part of the Visual Arts, Craft and Design Framework, will support the development of a new collection of works scheduled for exhibition at Adelaide’s Samstag Museum of Art in March 2027.
Earlier this year, in August, Sabsabi also received a significant grant from Create NSW to produce a new piece in Western Sydney.
These two commissions mark a positive turn in what has been a challenging year for Sabsabi. In February, he and curator Michael Dagostino were announced as Australia’s delegates for the prestigious Venice Biennale, only to be controversially dismissed less than a week later following criticism from The Australian newspaper and then shadow arts minister Claire Chandler.
The decision by Creative Australia to withdraw the commission sparked widespread outrage within the arts community. Prominent figures, including former Museum of Contemporary Art director Elizabeth Ann Macgregor and 2024 Venice Biennale Golden Lion winner Archie Moore, called for their reinstatement.
In July, Creative Australia reversed its decision, reinstating both Sabsabi and Dagostino to their roles.
Benita Kolovos
Victorian Opposition Pledges to Repeal Treaty Legislation Within First 100 Days if Elected
The opposition in Victoria has declared that, if victorious in the 2026 election, it will move swiftly to repeal the treaty legislation within its initial 100 days in office.
This announcement comes as the lower house of parliament begins discussions on Australia’s inaugural formal treaty with traditional owners.
The opposition plans to establish a new governmental entity called First Nations Victoria, alongside an advisory council composed of Aboriginal Victorians.
Unlike the First People’s Assembly, which is an elected body and will become permanent under the treaty bill, this new advisory group will not be elected.
Nationals MP Melina Bath, spokesperson for Aboriginal Affairs, stated:
“First Nations Victoria will encompass a wide range of voices. While we respect the First People’s Assembly and remain open to dialogue with Aboriginal community leaders, this policy aims to listen to all perspectives, not solely those of the Assembly.”
For further details on the government’s treaty legislation, see the related article: Victoria’s pioneering treaty bill explained.
Federal Environment Minister Murray Watt commented on the state’s response to the recent algal bloom crisis:
“South Australians hold a deep connection to their coastline, and this summer’s initiative aims to support local communities and encourage outdoor activities during the warmer months.”
“We are investing in scientific research and environmental strategies to aid marine life recovery and position South Australia as a leader in algal bloom studies.”
“Our approach addresses the algal bloom outbreak comprehensively, and we will continue collaborating closely with the Malinauskas government to meet the state’s needs.”
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas also weighed in on the government’s environmental strategy:
“This $100 million initiative is a thorough plan designed to safeguard our environment, bolster coastal businesses and communities, and ensure South Australians can enjoy their summer.”
“In partnership with the Commonwealth, we are utilizing every available governmental tool to address the algal bloom challenge. Extensive consultations with experts, industry stakeholders, and the wider community have informed this plan.”
“Our efforts are not only reactive but also focused on preserving the vitality of our coastline for this summer and future generations.”
