The Liberal Party's long resistance to reform has left it fighting for life

The Liberal Party of Australia has fallen on hard times. The party has struggled to attract voters and has gone through leadership uncertainty. In his first press conference as leader in February 2026, Angus Taylor said that his party needed to "change or die".

Russian barrage in Ukraine's capital region kills 17

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) – Russian attacks on Kyiv and its surrounding region killed 17 people and wounded dozens, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Wednesday, as Ukraine’s depleted air defenses failed to stop any of Moscow’s incoming missiles overnight.

Queensland Honours Volunteers During National Volunteer Week 2026

The Queensland Government is recognising the vital contribution of volunteers across the State as National Volunteer Week 2026 begins from 18 to 24 May, highlighting the people who dedicate their time to strengthening local communities.

Former Australian radio host Alan Jones on trial for sex charges

SYDNEY (AP) – The trial of a retired Sydney radio broadcaster and former Australian national rugby coach accused of sexual offenses against six men and boys over two decades began on Monday. The 85-year-old has pleaded not guilty to 20 counts of indecent assault and two of sexual touching without consent.

Trump says deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could come this week

CAIRO (AP) – U.S. President Donald Trump said a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz could come this week, as Iran and Oman inched toward an agreement on the critical waterway that could ease pressure on the global economy and potentially help bring an end to the war.

Queensland Unveils New Gambling Harm Plan Backed by $17 Million Funding

The Queensland Government has unveiled a new three-year strategy aimed at reducing gambling-related harm across the state, supported by more than $17 million in annual funding for support programs and services. The Gambling Harm Action Plan 2026-28 focuses on prevention, early intervention and improving access to support for Queenslanders impacted by gambling.

Were the new‑look Commonwealth Games the way of the future?

The new-look Commonwealth Games wrapped up in Glasgow this morning (Australian time) with plenty of questions about the stripped-back format and what the future may hold for the event. The 2026 games were originally awarded to the Australian state of Victoria before it baulked at the costs.

US stocks edge lower as oil prices rise

NEW YORK (AP) - Stocks edged lower on Wall Street as oil prices rose and more company earnings reports rolled in. The S&P 500 fell 0.2% Thursday. The Dow Jones fell 0.9%, and the Nasdaq composite fell 0.1%. Warner Bros. Discovery rose after reporting better-than-expected earnings.

Qld Clears Rape Kit DNA Backlog and Accelerates Major Crime Testing

The Queensland Government says it has cleared the backlog of untested sexual assault examination kits inherited from the former Labor Government, while also significantly reducing delays in major crime DNA testing. The milestone marks another step in the State's effort to rebuild confidence in Queensland's forensic system, following widespread concerns over thousands of unprocessed DNA samples.