News in five.
1. Porter resigns over mystery donors
Former industry minister Christian Porter has resigned from cabinet but vowed to remain in politics, after accepting anonymous donations from a blind trust to help pay his legal fees.
2. Subs betrayal threatens EU trade deal
France is seeking to torpedo the proposed EU-Australia free trade agreement over Australia’s cancellation of a $90bn French submarine contract.
3. Victoria reveals reopening plan
Victoria has released its reopening roadmap, as NSW eases restrictions in Sydney hotspots to bring them in line with the rest of the city.
4. Riot police plan for lockdown protests
Victoria Police will consider reclassifying anti-lockdown protesters as rioters, and deploy specially equipped public order response teams in future.
5. Cardiac care failing women
Women diagnosed with a common type of heart attack receive “less evidence-based treatment” than men, according to a new study.
News
Opinion
Letters, Cartoon & Editorial
Culture
Books
Life
Puzzles
Quotes
Faith
“I had high hopes for Mr Shelton and am sorry it has come to this.”
The leader of the Christian Democratic Party disendorses Lyle Shelton as his successor. Shelton said this is not how Jesus would act – forgetting that three days after dying he also changed his mind.
Character
“I never thought dobbing and snitching was part of the Australian character.”
The former prime minister complains after being fined for failing to wear a mask. This is the same man who as prime minister urged public servants to dob in their colleagues if they mocked him online.
Relations
“And I want to thank that fellow Down Under. Thank you very much, pal.”
The United States president appears to forget Scott Morrison’s name while announcing a deal for Australia to buy nuclear submarines. If the question is how much would it cost Morrison to become a memorable world figure, the answer is more than $90 billion.
Integrity
“As a potential beneficiary I have no access to information about the conduct and funding of the trust.”
The former attorney-general says he is unable to say who helped pay for his legal fees through a blind trust. Incidentally, Porter is pretty much out of blind trust.
Publicity
“I apologise if that’s incorrect. It should certainly be the curfew.”
The Victorian Liberal leader apologises for sending a press release accidentally calling for an immediate end to Melbourne’s lockdown. It’s still not nearly as confusing as the time he put up “tough on crime” billboards while also meeting with alleged mafia figures.
Mining
“Unfortunate and not reflecting well on the minister.”
The Federal Court judge asks Resources minister Keith Pitt to explain why grants were given to a gas company exploring the Beetaloo Basin, despite assurances the deal was not imminent. The likely answer is he just really, really loves fossil fuels and couldn’t help himself.
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