Australia news LIVE: One Nation's popularity surges, challenging the Coalition's dominance; AUKUS submarine progress signaled by US naval strategy shift
Coles faces legal scrutiny over misleading price discounts
Coles is set to appear in the Federal Court to address allegations of misleading shoppers with illusory discounts on household goods. The competition watchdog and Coles are engaged in a high-profile case over pricing promotions, with the ACCC accusing Coles of misrepresenting prices. The case will determine if the supermarket's promotions were genuine or misleading, potentially resulting in significant fines.
Hume urges government focus on economic management
Liberal deputy Jane Hume criticizes Treasurer Jim Chalmers for releasing hypothetical budget figures based on a hypothetical election outcome. Hume suggests that Labor should concentrate on its economic management, highlighting issues like inflation, debt, and government spending. She emphasizes the need for the government to address its own economic challenges.
Sharma pledges lower taxes for the Liberal Party
Liberal senator Dave Sharma emphasizes the party's commitment to a comprehensive economic policy, including tax reduction, productivity, and support for small businesses and families. High government spending and inflation have been central to Liberal attacks on Labor's economic management, with Sharma advocating for a more controlled approach to government spending.
Taylor avoids committing to release election review
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor declines to commit to releasing an internal election review into the Coalition's 2025 wipeout, citing it as a matter for the party organization. This decision follows Sussan Ley's promise of transparency, which was delayed due to claims of defamation. The review warns against leaders running their campaigns as Peter Dutton did.
Clare dodges questions on student debt cuts
Education Minister Jason Clare avoids confirming further student debt cuts in the May budget, citing the need to avoid pre-empting budget details. However, he acknowledges the government's understanding of students' struggles with the cost of living and expresses a commitment to addressing these concerns.
Hume refutes impact on women leaders
Jane Hume refutes suggestions that Sussan Ley's deposition would hinder future women leaders. She emphasizes the importance of a reset for the party, focusing on addressing the government's poor performance and providing an alternative to the 'grievance party'.
Chalmers defends migration management
Treasurer Jim Chalmers defends the government's migration management, noting a 45% reduction in net overseas migration over seven quarters. He attributes the Liberal Party's focus on migration as a political issue to their mismanagement of the program during their time in office. Chalmers highlights the government's consistent approach to managing migration.
IMF report endorsed as a government economic plan
The International Monetary Fund's report is welcomed by Jim Chalmers as an endorsement of the government's economic plan. The report suggests a 'soft landing' after interest rate increases but urges tax reforms, including GST increases and capital gains tax overhauls, to boost economic growth and productivity.
Chalmers challenges Taylor's economic record
Jim Chalmers criticizes Angus Taylor's economic record, labeling his time as shadow treasurer a failure. Chalmers highlights Taylor's role in advocating for higher taxes, deficits, and debt, questioning his credibility. The government's focus remains on cost of living, housing, and the economy, rather than the Coalition's internal chaos.
