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Mining’s multi-billion-dollar black hole
As the boom ends, poor oversight and lax bonds leave governments stuck with an enormous bill for mining’s clean-up.
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POLITICS
“The point of the story is that sometimes you’ve got to throw a punch to be the best and fairest.”
The prime minister, who definitely did not punch a wall either side of a young woman’s head at university, explains how he was once rewarded on the rugby field for biffing an opponent.
EDUCATION
“The concept of aspiration … ends in 2017.”
The architect of Labor’s education funding reforms explains why more than just the walls of universities should be fearful of this prime minister.
PROMISES
“I will do my best, having made a mistake yesterday, to make none today.”
The same prime minister confesses he regrets winking during a radio phone call from a 67-year-old pensioner who had resorted through hardship to working as a phone sex line operator. He won’t do it again.
LOVE
“We have different coloured eyes, different figures, I have a totally different style than she does.”
Geoffrey Edelsten’s new girlfriend, only 47 years his junior, expresses surprise she has been likened to former wife Brynne Edelsten. They are completely different women, although they both have an affection for glittery cadavers.
WORLD
“A tragic assault on human freedom.”
The Nigerian president condemns terrorist bombings linked to Boko Haram, the extremist group responsible for the kidnapping of 300 girls last month.
FUNDING
“I’ve always said families should be kept out of the front line.”
The prime minister explains why his daughter’s $60,000 design school scholarship, absent from his register of pecuniary interests, should not be scrutinised. It’s only fair, given the protection afforded to families on the front line of the budget.
