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Table in PM's suite smashed at farewell party under scrutiny in estimates – politics live Joe Hockey to give farewell speech to parliament on Wednesday – question time live
(35 minutes later)
4.22am BST04:22
Labor asks the new treasurer Scott Morrison how much revenue the government’s multinational tax avoidance measures will raise. Morrison thinks hundreds of millions, probably. But it’s much better to talk about how stupid Labor is. (He’s not very good in this new role, is he? Perhaps he’ll improve.)
Labor wants to know whether the government’s university deregulation package is dumped or merely on the back burner. Malcolm Turnbull wants to know how Labor will pay for its higher education package.
Clive Palmer has the crossbench question. He clearly wants to reform bankruptcy regulations.
Turnbull likes the cut of Clive’s jib.
The prime minister:
While the various changes and reforms to insolvency, corporate insolvency have resulted in more flexibility, there are powerful arguments, I believe, for looking more closely at these issues of business continuity. The chapter eleven procedures in the United States are, I have to say, like most practices, business practices in America, very legalistic and I don’t think anyone would recommend taking a facsimile of the American law and inserting it into Australia. But certainly considering greater measures to ensure greater business continuity, they are very good issues to discuss, very good issues to consider.
Perhaps Clive is thinking of a proposal he raised as opposition leader to assist business continuity. Perhaps this period was a happy time for Clive. There’s a but.
Malcolm Turnbull:
Not so happy for me, I can assure you.
4.11am BST04:11
First Dorothy Dixer is to the prime minister – how much do you love New Zealand? (Turnbull went across the ditch this past weekend to visit John Key.)
Turnbull confesses he’s a big fan of New Zealand, and its leader, John Key.
I have to say that we’ve all been admirers, at least on our side of politics, of the leadership John Key has shown as the PM of New Zealand. He’s taken a pragmatic and business-like approach to reforming the New Zealand economy. He’s constrained spending. He’s driven strong economic growth and he’s brought their budget into balance. He’s a real role model, I think, for centre right governments such as our own in Australia and of course right around the world.
(There are certainly some in the Turnbull circle who think John Key should be the new Australian prime minister’s role model.)
4.05am BST04:05
Question time
It being 2pm ..
Labor opens the hour of glower by asking the immigration minister, Peter Dutton, to update the lower house about the circumstances surrounding the asylum seeker allegedly raped and impregnated on Nauru.
Dutton is revising the account that he gave to the ABC this morning of her movements and interactions with various services. He says he gave the interview to Fran Kelly this morning to correct misleading statements being made about the case by people at the margins of the case.
Dutton:
The fact is some of the detail is factually incorrect. I thought it very important in my interview with Fran Kelly to correct the record and provide the advice about the assistance the government was providing.
Updated at 4.10am BST
3.58am BST03:58
Hockey to bow out of politics on Wednesday
Daniel Hurst
Joe Hockey is planning to deliver a valedictory speech to the parliament on Wednesday. The member for North Sydney lost his position as treasurer in the reshuffle after Malcolm Turnbull ousted Tony Abbott as prime minister last month. Hockey announced at the time that he intended to resign from the House of Representatives, although the timing was unclear. Guardian Australia understands Hockey is planning a valedictory address to the lower house on Wednesday morning, subject to the finalisation of the notice paper. His formal resignation from the parliament – after nearly 20 years as the MP for North Sydney – will occur at a later date that is yet to be decided. The step would be likely to trigger a byelection for the seat given the next general election is due in abut a year.
Updated at 4.11am BST
3.40am BST03:403.40am BST03:40
Question time is of course coming up at 2pm – gives me a moment to duck down to the thread and have a word.Question time is of course coming up at 2pm – gives me a moment to duck down to the thread and have a word.
3.32am BST03:323.32am BST03:32
Debates, I've had a few ..Debates, I've had a few ..
I didn’t have time to mention earlier on that the foreign minister, Julie Bishop, was accompanied earlier today at the UN human rights function by the attorney general, George Brandis.I didn’t have time to mention earlier on that the foreign minister, Julie Bishop, was accompanied earlier today at the UN human rights function by the attorney general, George Brandis.
Brandis of course led the charge against Human Rights Commission president Gillian Triggs earlier this year when some strange person imagined it suited the government’s political fortunes to press for war. I was interested in how Brandis would square his circle, and can now report the circle was squared in the following fashion.Brandis of course led the charge against Human Rights Commission president Gillian Triggs earlier this year when some strange person imagined it suited the government’s political fortunes to press for war. I was interested in how Brandis would square his circle, and can now report the circle was squared in the following fashion.
George Brandis:George Brandis:
Occasionally, and minister Bishop alluded to this, there may be domestic political debate about human rights, and that is a good thing that there should be such debate, but that debate takes place against the background of Australia being one of the world’s most rights respecting, one of the world’s most tolerant and one of the world’s most generous nations.Occasionally, and minister Bishop alluded to this, there may be domestic political debate about human rights, and that is a good thing that there should be such debate, but that debate takes place against the background of Australia being one of the world’s most rights respecting, one of the world’s most tolerant and one of the world’s most generous nations.
Updated at 3.34am BST Updated at 4.00am BST
3.16am BST03:163.16am BST03:16
While we were all watching tables and such, Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young (as I flagged earlier) in immigration estimates went round and round the case of the asylum seeker who was brought to Australia for a termination and then was taken back to Nauru on a charter flight, without having had the procedure. After grinding over the now bitterly contested accounts (which again, I flagged earlier on today), Hanson-Young made the following declaration to officials at the table.While we were all watching tables and such, Greens senator Sarah Hanson-Young (as I flagged earlier) in immigration estimates went round and round the case of the asylum seeker who was brought to Australia for a termination and then was taken back to Nauru on a charter flight, without having had the procedure. After grinding over the now bitterly contested accounts (which again, I flagged earlier on today), Hanson-Young made the following declaration to officials at the table.
She didn’t meet your abortion deadline, so that’s it – fly her out of the country.She didn’t meet your abortion deadline, so that’s it – fly her out of the country.
That is harsh.That is harsh.
Updated at 3.35am BSTUpdated at 3.35am BST
3.06am BST03:063.06am BST03:06
Politics this lunchtimePolitics this lunchtime
The mild magnificence of the political morning is best savoured with a lunchtime summary, so let’s proceed.The mild magnificence of the political morning is best savoured with a lunchtime summary, so let’s proceed.
Monday, high noon.Monday, high noon.
The exciting thing is there is more to come.The exciting thing is there is more to come.
Do stay with us.Do stay with us.
Updated at 3.37am BSTUpdated at 3.37am BST
2.30am BST02:302.30am BST02:30
On Chesterfields and bookshelvesOn Chesterfields and bookshelves
Off the table annihilation now.Off the table annihilation now.
Two questions to the officials. Where is John Howard’s famous Chesterfield lounge, which was subsequently used by Kevin Andrews when he was defence minister?Two questions to the officials. Where is John Howard’s famous Chesterfield lounge, which was subsequently used by Kevin Andrews when he was defence minister?
Still with Andrews apparently, he’s taken it with him to the backbench office.Still with Andrews apparently, he’s taken it with him to the backbench office.
Has the attorney general, George Brandis, taken his famous bookshelves with him to his new suite as Senate leader?Has the attorney general, George Brandis, taken his famous bookshelves with him to his new suite as Senate leader?
Yes, he has. At a cost of $1,822.Yes, he has. At a cost of $1,822.
Updated at 2.32am BSTUpdated at 2.32am BST
2.26am BST02:262.26am BST02:26
The Senate president, Stephen Parry, is expressing concern that parliamentary cleaners reported the alleged contents of ministerial offices.The Senate president, Stephen Parry, is expressing concern that parliamentary cleaners reported the alleged contents of ministerial offices.
Wong says hang on a moment – you aren’t concerned about the destruction of commonwealth property but you are concerned about cleaners reporting that they saw shards of the marble table in ministerial offices?Wong says hang on a moment – you aren’t concerned about the destruction of commonwealth property but you are concerned about cleaners reporting that they saw shards of the marble table in ministerial offices?
Penny Wong:Penny Wong:
Perhaps have a go at the people who broke it.Perhaps have a go at the people who broke it.
Parry says he’s concerned both about the destruction of property and about any breaches of privacy in the building. Wong looks less than convinced.Parry says he’s concerned both about the destruction of property and about any breaches of privacy in the building. Wong looks less than convinced.
Updated at 2.29am BSTUpdated at 2.29am BST
2.22am BST02:222.22am BST02:22
Is this a smashed table I see before me?Is this a smashed table I see before me?
Updated at 2.32am BSTUpdated at 2.32am BST
2.20am BST02:202.20am BST02:20
#TableGate in two pictures.#TableGate in two pictures.
2.18am BST02:182.18am BST02:18
Bernardi thinks it is entirely circumstantial that reports of marble shards in ministerial offices accompanied the smashing of an actual marble table in the cabinet suite at Tony Abbott’s farewell. There’s no proof anyone trousered bits of the marble table. No proof at all.Bernardi thinks it is entirely circumstantial that reports of marble shards in ministerial offices accompanied the smashing of an actual marble table in the cabinet suite at Tony Abbott’s farewell. There’s no proof anyone trousered bits of the marble table. No proof at all.
Penny Wong to Cory Bernardi:Penny Wong to Cory Bernardi:
You want to pretend there’s some other sort of marble, fine.You want to pretend there’s some other sort of marble, fine.
Bernardi is also holding the line on the structural weakness point. The table has suffered a malfunction, he says.Bernardi is also holding the line on the structural weakness point. The table has suffered a malfunction, he says.
2.11am BST02:112.11am BST02:11
This #marbletable is what's known by DPS as "Status A" furniture; bespoke items made for the opening of Parliament House in 1988. #estimatesThis #marbletable is what's known by DPS as "Status A" furniture; bespoke items made for the opening of Parliament House in 1988. #estimates
2.11am BST02:112.11am BST02:11
Photographs of the table have now been tabled. The marble top is smashed in half. Fragments are still missing.Photographs of the table have now been tabled. The marble top is smashed in half. Fragments are still missing.
2.08am BST02:082.08am BST02:08
Tough day at the office for DPS.Tough day at the office for DPS.
2.06am BST02:062.06am BST02:06
Wong is now reading from DPS internal correspondence about the table. The correspondence would appear to suggest bits of the smashed table were subsequently removed from the cabinet suite to other ministerial offices. (Trophies? Wut?) The correspondence also references suggestions the table was smashed when people danced on it.Wong is now reading from DPS internal correspondence about the table. The correspondence would appear to suggest bits of the smashed table were subsequently removed from the cabinet suite to other ministerial offices. (Trophies? Wut?) The correspondence also references suggestions the table was smashed when people danced on it.
The DPS official tells the committee both the dancing and the alleged trophies were anecdotal observations. The department had no access to the area at that stage, so the report was speculative.The DPS official tells the committee both the dancing and the alleged trophies were anecdotal observations. The department had no access to the area at that stage, so the report was speculative.
Bernardi counsels the witness against speculation.Bernardi counsels the witness against speculation.
The table, purchased in the 1980’s, was valued at the time of purchase at around $500. DPS has sought quotes for replacement cost. One quote is under $1,000 another quote is well over that price.The table, purchased in the 1980’s, was valued at the time of purchase at around $500. DPS has sought quotes for replacement cost. One quote is under $1,000 another quote is well over that price.
How about the base of the table? It was cracked apparently.How about the base of the table? It was cracked apparently.
Liberal senator Dean Smith is trying manfully to blame the victim here. How do these officials know this wasn’t a crook table to begin with? A bad egg.Liberal senator Dean Smith is trying manfully to blame the victim here. How do these officials know this wasn’t a crook table to begin with? A bad egg.
Dean Smith:Dean Smith:
It might have been a structurally poor table.It might have been a structurally poor table.
Cory Bernardi, helping:Cory Bernardi, helping:
Q: Was there any evidence of natural weakness in the stone?Q: Was there any evidence of natural weakness in the stone?
1.54am BST01:541.54am BST01:54
Penny Wong wants to know how often DPS staff are denied access to suites in the building when they seek access. The officials suggest it is not uncommon to delay in order to reach a suitable inspection time.Penny Wong wants to know how often DPS staff are denied access to suites in the building when they seek access. The officials suggest it is not uncommon to delay in order to reach a suitable inspection time.
Wong asks what reason they were given for the lack of access in this specific instance?Wong asks what reason they were given for the lack of access in this specific instance?
DPS official:DPS official:
As far as I am aware there was no reason given.As far as I am aware there was no reason given.
Cleaners went in and out all week, just not the DPS officials who had sought access. Abbott’s farewell party was early in the week – but no access was granted to the cabinet suite until the 18th. The official has told the committee DPS did not ask for a reason when they were denied access.Cleaners went in and out all week, just not the DPS officials who had sought access. Abbott’s farewell party was early in the week – but no access was granted to the cabinet suite until the 18th. The official has told the committee DPS did not ask for a reason when they were denied access.
The table was eventually retrieved. Were there photos taken, Wong asks? There were photos taken, the official says. Wong says she’d like those today. I suspect we’d all like those today, truth be told.The table was eventually retrieved. Were there photos taken, Wong asks? There were photos taken, the official says. Wong says she’d like those today. I suspect we’d all like those today, truth be told.
1.47am BST01:471.47am BST01:47
Labor’s Penny Wong is now back into the fate of the marble table. The evidence being given now suggests Parliament House cleaners first discovered remnants of a marble table in the PMO. Officials then sought access to the prime ministerial suite. We believe there had been a table damaged but we had no access to the area, the Department of Parliamentary Services official tells the committee. We were not allowed access until the Friday.Labor’s Penny Wong is now back into the fate of the marble table. The evidence being given now suggests Parliament House cleaners first discovered remnants of a marble table in the PMO. Officials then sought access to the prime ministerial suite. We believe there had been a table damaged but we had no access to the area, the Department of Parliamentary Services official tells the committee. We were not allowed access until the Friday.
Updated at 1.51am BSTUpdated at 1.51am BST
1.43am BST01:431.43am BST01:43
Officials can deliver the breaking news on the royal china. It’s all back in storage. The sixty pieces are stored and happy. Huzzah.Officials can deliver the breaking news on the royal china. It’s all back in storage. The sixty pieces are stored and happy. Huzzah.
Coming up, the table.Coming up, the table.
1.40am BST01:401.40am BST01:40
Quite a party ..Quite a party ..
DPS grilled on damage to marble table, during Abbott's party in Min Wing of Parli House after ousted as PM @abcnews pic.twitter.com/LHtrnPlgCfDPS grilled on damage to marble table, during Abbott's party in Min Wing of Parli House after ousted as PM @abcnews pic.twitter.com/LHtrnPlgCf
1.39am BST01:391.39am BST01:39
For folks sweating on that marble table (allegedly) smashed at Tony Abbott’s (allegedly) boozy farewell, fear not.For folks sweating on that marble table (allegedly) smashed at Tony Abbott’s (allegedly) boozy farewell, fear not.
More particulars are being sought.More particulars are being sought.
Bernardi says Labor will get to ask more questions on this subject once the relevant information is procured. I wonder how in fact you can smash a marble table? It seems like it would be quite hard to do that.Bernardi says Labor will get to ask more questions on this subject once the relevant information is procured. I wonder how in fact you can smash a marble table? It seems like it would be quite hard to do that.
Updated at 1.41am BSTUpdated at 1.41am BST
1.35am BST01:351.35am BST01:35
We are being buffeted by various potential parliamentary beverage and furniture scandals in the finance committee. Security now. The Liberal senator Cory Bernardi is very concerned that two unauthorised persons have gained access to a secure car park in the building by tailgating someone with a security pass. The official at the table remembers something vaguely about this. Bernardi is distinctly non-plussed with the lack of precision in this answer.We are being buffeted by various potential parliamentary beverage and furniture scandals in the finance committee. Security now. The Liberal senator Cory Bernardi is very concerned that two unauthorised persons have gained access to a secure car park in the building by tailgating someone with a security pass. The official at the table remembers something vaguely about this. Bernardi is distinctly non-plussed with the lack of precision in this answer.
1.28am BST01:281.28am BST01:28
Bring back the crockeryBring back the crockery
The finance committee is now fascinated by some posh sounding crockery in the House of Representatives suite of former Speaker Bronwyn Bishop.The finance committee is now fascinated by some posh sounding crockery in the House of Representatives suite of former Speaker Bronwyn Bishop.
Apparently sixty pieces of crockery are currently MIA.Apparently sixty pieces of crockery are currently MIA.
Further particulars are being sought. I believe these are royal china plates.Further particulars are being sought. I believe these are royal china plates.
Updated at 1.38am BSTUpdated at 1.38am BST
1.25am BST01:251.25am BST01:25
What is a bollard?What is a bollard?
National senator Bridget MacKenzie:National senator Bridget MacKenzie:
When I think bollard ..When I think bollard ..
(A conversation is under way about whether a bollard is a bollard or a traffic control advice.)(A conversation is under way about whether a bollard is a bollard or a traffic control advice.)
Liberal senator Cory Bernardi tells Labor senator Penny Wong language is very important.Liberal senator Cory Bernardi tells Labor senator Penny Wong language is very important.
Penny Wong:Penny Wong:
Yes, so George Orwell said.Yes, so George Orwell said.
Updated at 1.38am BSTUpdated at 1.38am BST
1.21am BST01:211.21am BST01:21
In the finance and public administration committee, officials have been quizzed about a table that was smashed in the prime ministerial suite during Tony Abbott’s farewell party.In the finance and public administration committee, officials have been quizzed about a table that was smashed in the prime ministerial suite during Tony Abbott’s farewell party.
"Quite a party," says @senatorWong when asking an official abt a broken table in PM's office, when official describes it being in pieces."Quite a party," says @senatorWong when asking an official abt a broken table in PM's office, when official describes it being in pieces.
Seems the siege mentality in the Abbott office even extended to Parl staff. DPS not allowed to see broken party table for daysSeems the siege mentality in the Abbott office even extended to Parl staff. DPS not allowed to see broken party table for days
DPS official John Ryan is now being given time to go & gather more information to answer questions about the broken PMO table. #estimatesDPS official John Ryan is now being given time to go & gather more information to answer questions about the broken PMO table. #estimates
Bernardi helpfully suggests the marble table should be referred to as "damaged" rather than "smashed" #estimatesBernardi helpfully suggests the marble table should be referred to as "damaged" rather than "smashed" #estimates
Then a second item of business – bollard gate.Then a second item of business – bollard gate.
Parliament staffer who allegedly deliberately put a bollard in the way of a press pack has been investigated. "No case to answer" is findingParliament staffer who allegedly deliberately put a bollard in the way of a press pack has been investigated. "No case to answer" is finding
1.13am BST01:131.13am BST01:13
Back to immigration estimates, Green senator Sarah Hanson-Young is pursuing questions about the woman allegedly raped and impregnated in Nauru. The disputed facts about the Somali woman’s disposition when she was returned recently to Australia – the competing claims about whether she said she did not want a termination versus the position put by advocates that she wasn’t properly supported with services – are circling around, still without resolution.Back to immigration estimates, Green senator Sarah Hanson-Young is pursuing questions about the woman allegedly raped and impregnated in Nauru. The disputed facts about the Somali woman’s disposition when she was returned recently to Australia – the competing claims about whether she said she did not want a termination versus the position put by advocates that she wasn’t properly supported with services – are circling around, still without resolution.
1.05am BST01:051.05am BST01:05
The foreign minister has been stopped by reporters on her way out of the UN bid function. Strangely, I don’t think she was asked about the government’s newly warm relationship with the Human Rights Commission.The foreign minister has been stopped by reporters on her way out of the UN bid function. Strangely, I don’t think she was asked about the government’s newly warm relationship with the Human Rights Commission.
She was, however, asked about outgoing US ambassador Kim Beazley’s observations in the Australian this morning.She was, however, asked about outgoing US ambassador Kim Beazley’s observations in the Australian this morning.
Kim Beazley:Kim Beazley:
As Australians, we do foreign affairs on the cheap. Washington is Australia’s information base and the significance of that has tended to increase as the foreign affairs department has been pared back over the years. It’s not good. I would think we would be well served by a more extensive department.As Australians, we do foreign affairs on the cheap. Washington is Australia’s information base and the significance of that has tended to increase as the foreign affairs department has been pared back over the years. It’s not good. I would think we would be well served by a more extensive department.
Q: What do you think of of Kim Beazley’s comments today that Australia does foreign affairs on the cheap?Q: What do you think of of Kim Beazley’s comments today that Australia does foreign affairs on the cheap?
Julie Bishop – yes Kim, but I’m a fixer ..Julie Bishop – yes Kim, but I’m a fixer ..
I certainly agree that successive Australian governments have not provided the kind of resources that the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and our diplomats need to fully engage and pursue our interests internationally.I certainly agree that successive Australian governments have not provided the kind of resources that the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and our diplomats need to fully engage and pursue our interests internationally.
That’s why I have ensured that we are opening new posts overseas. In fact, in the first two years of this government, we’ve announced the opening of seven new posts overseas.That’s why I have ensured that we are opening new posts overseas. In fact, in the first two years of this government, we’ve announced the opening of seven new posts overseas.
And I think that’s the largest number in any one announcement in decades.And I think that’s the largest number in any one announcement in decades.
Updated at 1.15am BSTUpdated at 1.15am BST
12.56am BST00:5612.56am BST00:56
I’ve just been attempting to refresh my memory about Julie Bishop’s personal exposure to the absurd mess the Coalition created for itself by belting Gillian Triggs for her various thought crimes earlier this year.I’ve just been attempting to refresh my memory about Julie Bishop’s personal exposure to the absurd mess the Coalition created for itself by belting Gillian Triggs for her various thought crimes earlier this year.
My memory is Bishop attempted to fade elegantly into the background while other colleagues lined up to punch themselves repeatedly in the head.My memory is Bishop attempted to fade elegantly into the background while other colleagues lined up to punch themselves repeatedly in the head.
She did, however, play one cameo in late February, representing the attorney general, George Brandis, in the lower house. Bishop had to answer a question about whether or not Triggs was offered an inducement (ie: a new job) to exit her current post as AHRC president.She did, however, play one cameo in late February, representing the attorney general, George Brandis, in the lower house. Bishop had to answer a question about whether or not Triggs was offered an inducement (ie: a new job) to exit her current post as AHRC president.
Ms Bishop told parliament Professor Triggs was not offered a new job.Ms Bishop told parliament Professor Triggs was not offered a new job.
There was no job offer made to the president of the Human Rights Commission. There was no request for her to resign and there was no inducement offered. A role was raised that related to international affairs. As the secretary of the attorney general’s department said in Senate estimates, it was a sensitive matter that he did not wish to give details of in Senate estimates, so I don’t give details of it.There was no job offer made to the president of the Human Rights Commission. There was no request for her to resign and there was no inducement offered. A role was raised that related to international affairs. As the secretary of the attorney general’s department said in Senate estimates, it was a sensitive matter that he did not wish to give details of in Senate estimates, so I don’t give details of it.
The other Bishop, Bronwyn Bishop, was in the middle of the action.The other Bishop, Bronwyn Bishop, was in the middle of the action.
During a special appearance on the Q&A program in June, while still Speaker of the House of Representatives, Bronwyn Bishop advised Triggs to run for political office given she was clearly a protagonist, not a distant observer.During a special appearance on the Q&A program in June, while still Speaker of the House of Representatives, Bronwyn Bishop advised Triggs to run for political office given she was clearly a protagonist, not a distant observer.
Gillian Triggs, responding to Bishop:Gillian Triggs, responding to Bishop:
My position is not a political one. We work according to the law at the Australian Human Rights Commission and we try to ensure that our evidence is accurate and well-founded. Unfortunately, of course, many of our findings and recommendations are interpreted in political ways. I’m afraid, in the human rights context, it is very hard not to be perceived to be political and that is really something we have to manage. I can certainly assure the Australian people that the Human Rights Commission operates in a very neutral way and we operate on the basis of the rule of law.My position is not a political one. We work according to the law at the Australian Human Rights Commission and we try to ensure that our evidence is accurate and well-founded. Unfortunately, of course, many of our findings and recommendations are interpreted in political ways. I’m afraid, in the human rights context, it is very hard not to be perceived to be political and that is really something we have to manage. I can certainly assure the Australian people that the Human Rights Commission operates in a very neutral way and we operate on the basis of the rule of law.
Updated at 1.14am BSTUpdated at 1.14am BST
12.35am BST00:3512.35am BST00:35
Sooo yesterday.Sooo yesterday.
A short sequel by Politics Live – featuring human rights.A short sequel by Politics Live – featuring human rights.
Julie Bishop:Julie Bishop:
Promoting national human rights institutions and building much-needed capacities will form the final element of our campaign. Strong national human rights institutions play a crucial role in promoting, preserving and advancing human rights.Promoting national human rights institutions and building much-needed capacities will form the final element of our campaign. Strong national human rights institutions play a crucial role in promoting, preserving and advancing human rights.
We are working in close partnership with the Australian Human Rights Commission.We are working in close partnership with the Australian Human Rights Commission.
(Mind the whiplash, Gillian Triggs.)(Mind the whiplash, Gillian Triggs.)
12.29am BST00:2912.29am BST00:29
Let’s leave silly stuff ups and silly walks to catch the foreign minister Julie Bishop, launching Australia’s candidacy for membership of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2018-20 term.Let’s leave silly stuff ups and silly walks to catch the foreign minister Julie Bishop, launching Australia’s candidacy for membership of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2018-20 term.
Bishop opens by acknowledging the president of the Human Rights Commission, Gillian Triggs (amongst other guests.) This would be the lady the Abbott government tried to hip-and-shoulder-charge out of her post. As Hilary Duff once observed .. Sooo yesterday ..Bishop opens by acknowledging the president of the Human Rights Commission, Gillian Triggs (amongst other guests.) This would be the lady the Abbott government tried to hip-and-shoulder-charge out of her post. As Hilary Duff once observed .. Sooo yesterday ..
Julie Bishop:Julie Bishop:
Australia’s candidacy is a measure of our longstanding commitment to promoting and protecting human rights, both in Australia and around the world.Australia’s candidacy is a measure of our longstanding commitment to promoting and protecting human rights, both in Australia and around the world.
Historically, our efforts, our record in the field of human rights, is strong and I have a particular interest in the rights of women and their role in peace, security and conflict, and the empowerment of women which is at the centre, in fact, of our aid program.Historically, our efforts, our record in the field of human rights, is strong and I have a particular interest in the rights of women and their role in peace, security and conflict, and the empowerment of women which is at the centre, in fact, of our aid program.
I was thinking perhaps it is something to do with my upbringing.I was thinking perhaps it is something to do with my upbringing.
I am from South Australia and decades before federation, SA was one of the first places in the world to give, in this instance land-owning, women the right to vote, in 1861.I am from South Australia and decades before federation, SA was one of the first places in the world to give, in this instance land-owning, women the right to vote, in 1861.
In 1895, South Australia extended the franchise to all women voters and women could stand for the colonial parliament, indeed SA women voted for the first time at the 1896 SA election.In 1895, South Australia extended the franchise to all women voters and women could stand for the colonial parliament, indeed SA women voted for the first time at the 1896 SA election.
Human rights, freedom, democracy.Human rights, freedom, democracy.
These have been part of the very fabric of Australia from the beginnings as a modern nation.These have been part of the very fabric of Australia from the beginnings as a modern nation.
Updated at 12.42am BSTUpdated at 12.42am BST
12.19am BST00:1912.19am BST00:19
Proof that launching an airport plan and environmental impact statement can be a fraught business.Proof that launching an airport plan and environmental impact statement can be a fraught business.
Updated at 12.24am BSTUpdated at 12.24am BST
12.14am BST00:1412.14am BST00:14
Mike Pezzullo says (contrary to the impression given by the botched press release) there are no powers to interrogate people on the streets without reasonable suspicion.Mike Pezzullo says (contrary to the impression given by the botched press release) there are no powers to interrogate people on the streets without reasonable suspicion.
Labor senator Kim Carr says the sum of the parts then means the agencies involved in Operation Fortitude were advertising an illegal act?Labor senator Kim Carr says the sum of the parts then means the agencies involved in Operation Fortitude were advertising an illegal act?
Pezzullo says a press release can’t be an illegal act.Pezzullo says a press release can’t be an illegal act.
Carr persists, pointing out the agencies were describing an operation that exceeded their statutory powers.Carr persists, pointing out the agencies were describing an operation that exceeded their statutory powers.
Pezzullo concedes that point.Pezzullo concedes that point.
It would be beyond power.It would be beyond power.
Just for the record, this was Roman Quaedvlieg’s full explanation/mea culpa for Operation (Reverse Ferret) Fortitude from earlier this morning.Just for the record, this was Roman Quaedvlieg’s full explanation/mea culpa for Operation (Reverse Ferret) Fortitude from earlier this morning.
Our role in that operation was limited to six ABF visa compliance officers in two static locations over two evenings in Melbourne’s CBD, providing a secondary advisory and support service where the lead agencies referred matters requiring immigration expertise.Our role in that operation was limited to six ABF visa compliance officers in two static locations over two evenings in Melbourne’s CBD, providing a secondary advisory and support service where the lead agencies referred matters requiring immigration expertise.
This activity is a routine and regular component of our responsibilities. Last financial year we provided support to over 300 operations led by partner enforcement agencies across Australia.This activity is a routine and regular component of our responsibilities. Last financial year we provided support to over 300 operations led by partner enforcement agencies across Australia.
Unfortunately, in the case of Operation Fortitude, the ABF issued a complementary media release which was factually wrong in describing its role.Unfortunately, in the case of Operation Fortitude, the ABF issued a complementary media release which was factually wrong in describing its role.
This resulted in public confusion, concern and distress for which I apologise.This resulted in public confusion, concern and distress for which I apologise.
11.58pm BST23:5811.58pm BST23:58
Down in the Blue Room, on the putative second Sydney airport, and Warren Truss is at pains to say the good people of western Sydney will not be troubled excessively by aircraft noise.Down in the Blue Room, on the putative second Sydney airport, and Warren Truss is at pains to say the good people of western Sydney will not be troubled excessively by aircraft noise.
No one will have to do anything as unseemly as shouting over the noise of a plane.No one will have to do anything as unseemly as shouting over the noise of a plane.
Warren Truss:Warren Truss:
Indicative flightpaths would indicate that when they reach the Penrith CBD, aircraft are likely to be above 5,000 feet and this would mean a noise level below 70 decibels.Indicative flightpaths would indicate that when they reach the Penrith CBD, aircraft are likely to be above 5,000 feet and this would mean a noise level below 70 decibels.
That is equivalent to the noise that you would hear from a passenger car travelling on a suburban road.That is equivalent to the noise that you would hear from a passenger car travelling on a suburban road.
We do anticipate that the noise levels around the western Sydney area will be manageable. They will generally be about conversational level in volume and rarely would people be required to raise their voices because of the fact that there was aircraft movements in the area.We do anticipate that the noise levels around the western Sydney area will be manageable. They will generally be about conversational level in volume and rarely would people be required to raise their voices because of the fact that there was aircraft movements in the area.
Meanwhile, back with Operation Reverse Ferret Fortitude. Mike Pezzullo says it was never anyone’s intention to have ABF folks roaming the streets of Melbourne requiring people to produce their papers. The fact the press statement suggested something of the sort was a regrettable lapse in the context of a high tempo environment.Meanwhile, back with Operation Reverse Ferret Fortitude. Mike Pezzullo says it was never anyone’s intention to have ABF folks roaming the streets of Melbourne requiring people to produce their papers. The fact the press statement suggested something of the sort was a regrettable lapse in the context of a high tempo environment.
Updated at 12.04am BSTUpdated at 12.04am BST
11.49pm BST23:4911.49pm BST23:49
Down in the Blue Room, the deputy prime minister Warren Truss is unveiling a plan for the second Sydney airport. I’ll catch us up with that shortly.Down in the Blue Room, the deputy prime minister Warren Truss is unveiling a plan for the second Sydney airport. I’ll catch us up with that shortly.
In estimates, we are still deep in Operation Reverse Ferret Fortitude. Quaedvlieg, under questioning from the Liberal senator Ian MacDonald, is describing an (abandoned) intention to swoop on a taxi rank adjacent to the Southern Cross station in Melbourne.In estimates, we are still deep in Operation Reverse Ferret Fortitude. Quaedvlieg, under questioning from the Liberal senator Ian MacDonald, is describing an (abandoned) intention to swoop on a taxi rank adjacent to the Southern Cross station in Melbourne.
The officers would wear some kind of identification.The officers would wear some kind of identification.
Probably a uniform.Probably a uniform.
11.43pm BST23:4311.43pm BST23:43
Sticking with immigration estimates, Quaedvlieg is still facing questions about Operation Reverse Ferret Fortitude. He’s told the committee the immigration minister’s office was briefed about the proposal earlier in the week in late August – a media release went up for noting – but he, the ABF chief, was not.Sticking with immigration estimates, Quaedvlieg is still facing questions about Operation Reverse Ferret Fortitude. He’s told the committee the immigration minister’s office was briefed about the proposal earlier in the week in late August – a media release went up for noting – but he, the ABF chief, was not.
That’s a bit odd, isn’t it, Labor senator Kim Carr inquires?That’s a bit odd, isn’t it, Labor senator Kim Carr inquires?
Nope, nope, nope says Quaedvlieg.Nope, nope, nope says Quaedvlieg.
I don’t expect to be apprised of every operation.I don’t expect to be apprised of every operation.
Carr would like access to the talking points that accompanied the press release that went to the minister’s office. Immigration chief Pezzullo says that can probably be arranged because they will shortly be released in compliance with a freedom of information request.Carr would like access to the talking points that accompanied the press release that went to the minister’s office. Immigration chief Pezzullo says that can probably be arranged because they will shortly be released in compliance with a freedom of information request.
11.32pm BST23:3211.32pm BST23:32
More on Reverse Ferret Fortitude.More on Reverse Ferret Fortitude.
Roman Quaedvlieg on the “factually wrong” press release:Roman Quaedvlieg on the “factually wrong” press release:
This resulted in public concern, confusion and distress, and for that I apologise.This resulted in public concern, confusion and distress, and for that I apologise.
11.29pm BST23:2911.29pm BST23:29
Soz for that Border Force botch-up in MelbzSoz for that Border Force botch-up in Melbz
Shalailah MedhoraShalailah Medhora
Various estimates hearings are now under way downstairs and I will keep you posted over the course of the day. Thanks to my colleague Shalailah Medhora for this breaking snippet.Various estimates hearings are now under way downstairs and I will keep you posted over the course of the day. Thanks to my colleague Shalailah Medhora for this breaking snippet.
Michael Pezzullo, the secretary of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, which takes in Australian Border Force, has apologised for the confusion arising from Operation Fortitude. A “badly worded press release” gave the impression that Border Force could stop people and request they produce valid visas, Pezzullo said. “It does not,” he said. The incident, in August this year, prompted public outrage and mirth alike. Pezzullo said he and the commissioner of Border Force, Roman Quaedvlieg, “in the end are accountable for this regrettable incident”. A comprehensive review of the incident has resulted in a number of staff being formally counselled, and tighter controls on the release of press statements.Michael Pezzullo, the secretary of the Department of Immigration and Border Protection, which takes in Australian Border Force, has apologised for the confusion arising from Operation Fortitude. A “badly worded press release” gave the impression that Border Force could stop people and request they produce valid visas, Pezzullo said. “It does not,” he said. The incident, in August this year, prompted public outrage and mirth alike. Pezzullo said he and the commissioner of Border Force, Roman Quaedvlieg, “in the end are accountable for this regrettable incident”. A comprehensive review of the incident has resulted in a number of staff being formally counselled, and tighter controls on the release of press statements.
Updated at 11.43pm BSTUpdated at 11.43pm BST
11.22pm BST23:2211.22pm BST23:22
One more Seinfeld reference and then I really must move on.One more Seinfeld reference and then I really must move on.
I was out of the office last week and as a consequence, had the time to watch the debate by Democratic party candidates for the US presidency.I was out of the office last week and as a consequence, had the time to watch the debate by Democratic party candidates for the US presidency.
Yes, sad to be watching politics on a week off, but there you go. The Politics Live community is precisely that sad sort of community.Yes, sad to be watching politics on a week off, but there you go. The Politics Live community is precisely that sad sort of community.
If you missed the debate, and wish you’d seen it, watch this instead – it’s great fun, particularly Larry David as Bernie Sanders.If you missed the debate, and wish you’d seen it, watch this instead – it’s great fun, particularly Larry David as Bernie Sanders.
Updated at 11.40pm BSTUpdated at 11.40pm BST
11.13pm BST23:1311.13pm BST23:13
Still with Seinfeld, Mike Bowers is rocking the Jerry look, just quietly.Still with Seinfeld, Mike Bowers is rocking the Jerry look, just quietly.
only shoes I packed for Canberra are runners, borrowing the look from Ross Gittins-runners with suit @murpharoo pic.twitter.com/g7cJzkhcqtonly shoes I packed for Canberra are runners, borrowing the look from Ross Gittins-runners with suit @murpharoo pic.twitter.com/g7cJzkhcqt
11.12pm BST23:1211.12pm BST23:12
To other matters now. Here is a short Politics Live episode I’ll call, ‘where are they now?’To other matters now. Here is a short Politics Live episode I’ll call, ‘where are they now?’
This is my first opportunity to share a most wonderful exit interview by the government’s former Senate leader Eric Abetz.This is my first opportunity to share a most wonderful exit interview by the government’s former Senate leader Eric Abetz.
Among many choice maxims and reflections, Abetz has told the Australian’s media editor, Sharri Markson, today that the Canberra press gallery suffers from a dreadful case of group think when it comes to reporting on MPs of a strong Christian persuasion.Among many choice maxims and reflections, Abetz has told the Australian’s media editor, Sharri Markson, today that the Canberra press gallery suffers from a dreadful case of group think when it comes to reporting on MPs of a strong Christian persuasion.
Take it away Eric:Take it away Eric:
Journalists will need to ­explain why they do this, but it is very clear that if somebody swears their oath on the Koran, this is a wonderful expression of diversity and to be encouraged, whereas if you swear your oath on the Bible then you’re an old fart and not to be taken seriously. Well, excuse me, what’s the difference? There is a special negative-sentiment override for those that profess the Christian faith.Journalists will need to ­explain why they do this, but it is very clear that if somebody swears their oath on the Koran, this is a wonderful expression of diversity and to be encouraged, whereas if you swear your oath on the Bible then you’re an old fart and not to be taken seriously. Well, excuse me, what’s the difference? There is a special negative-sentiment override for those that profess the Christian faith.
Journalists just won’t give poor conservatives a break:Journalists just won’t give poor conservatives a break:
I’m terribly loyal to my new leader but you might comment on the flirtatious approach of Leigh Sales when she interviewed Turnbull. Just ask yourself the question, did Leigh Sales ever apologise for interrupting Tony Abbott? If you’re a conservative, you’re fair game to be interrupted.I’m terribly loyal to my new leader but you might comment on the flirtatious approach of Leigh Sales when she interviewed Turnbull. Just ask yourself the question, did Leigh Sales ever apologise for interrupting Tony Abbott? If you’re a conservative, you’re fair game to be interrupted.
While still on the dearly departed, Mike Bowers has been for a stroll around downstairs to capture Joe Hockey’s zen mindset, post treasury.While still on the dearly departed, Mike Bowers has been for a stroll around downstairs to capture Joe Hockey’s zen mindset, post treasury.
This picture greets visitors to Hockey’s new, more modest, parliamentary digs. Seinfeld fans will know this is the soup Nazi. No soup for Joe. We can read this public display of rebuff in many different ways but I think it’s an excellent sign. Looks like he’s settling in to post-treasury life nicely.This picture greets visitors to Hockey’s new, more modest, parliamentary digs. Seinfeld fans will know this is the soup Nazi. No soup for Joe. We can read this public display of rebuff in many different ways but I think it’s an excellent sign. Looks like he’s settling in to post-treasury life nicely.
Updated at 11.20pm BSTUpdated at 11.20pm BST
10.54pm BST22:5410.54pm BST22:54
Refugee advocate Pamela Curr is on ABC radio in Melbourne now. Curr is one of the people who (presumably) has just been branded a fabricator by PDuddy.Refugee advocate Pamela Curr is on ABC radio in Melbourne now. Curr is one of the people who (presumably) has just been branded a fabricator by PDuddy.
Curr says it’s true that some “facts” in the case are disputed, but she’s sticking by her version of events. Curr says, concerning the termination, she believes the woman was not given a chance to say what she wanted.Curr says it’s true that some “facts” in the case are disputed, but she’s sticking by her version of events. Curr says, concerning the termination, she believes the woman was not given a chance to say what she wanted.
ABC host Jon Faine asks her whether she’s using the circumstances of this individual case to contrive permanent residency for this woman.ABC host Jon Faine asks her whether she’s using the circumstances of this individual case to contrive permanent residency for this woman.
Curr doesn’t address Faine’s point specifically but says she works in a contentious field.Curr doesn’t address Faine’s point specifically but says she works in a contentious field.
She says if you position yourself on the side of human rights in the Australian asylum debate, things will get willing.She says if you position yourself on the side of human rights in the Australian asylum debate, things will get willing.
Pamela Curr:Pamela Curr:
That is the nature of a contentious policy.That is the nature of a contentious policy.
Updated at 11.14pm BSTUpdated at 11.14pm BST
10.39pm BST22:3910.39pm BST22:39
Shalailah MedhoraShalailah Medhora
Dutton was doorstopped by journalists shortly after his grilling on Radio National.Dutton was doorstopped by journalists shortly after his grilling on Radio National.
He reiterated the point that Australia sent the 23-year old Somali refugee known as Abyan back to Nauru because she changed her mind about having an abortion, and only after she was reviewed by medical professionals.He reiterated the point that Australia sent the 23-year old Somali refugee known as Abyan back to Nauru because she changed her mind about having an abortion, and only after she was reviewed by medical professionals.
Counselling and other services were provided to Abyan even before she arrived in Australia, Dutton said. “I am advised that counselling was provided to the lady before she departed Nauru, and assistance otherwise no doubt,” the immigration minister said. He has not ruled out bringing the woman, who alleges that she was raped on Nauru, back to Australia if she decides she does want the termination. “We’ll make a decision that we believe is in the best interests of the patient,” Dutton said. “That will be the test that we apply.”Counselling and other services were provided to Abyan even before she arrived in Australia, Dutton said. “I am advised that counselling was provided to the lady before she departed Nauru, and assistance otherwise no doubt,” the immigration minister said. He has not ruled out bringing the woman, who alleges that she was raped on Nauru, back to Australia if she decides she does want the termination. “We’ll make a decision that we believe is in the best interests of the patient,” Dutton said. “That will be the test that we apply.”
The immigration minister also refuted claims from a New Zealand MP, as first reported by Guardian Australia on Saturday, that Kiwis sentenced and jailed for minor offences were among the detainees awaiting deportation from Australian facilities. He did, however, admit that security on Christmas Island was being beefed up, as the detention facility there is being increasingly used to house bikie gang members and other high risk offenders awaiting deportation. “It is true that there have been upgrades at the Christmas Island facility because we... will cancel visas of people who pose significant risk to the Australian public, as well as people otherwise who have had their visas cancelled,” Dutton said.The immigration minister also refuted claims from a New Zealand MP, as first reported by Guardian Australia on Saturday, that Kiwis sentenced and jailed for minor offences were among the detainees awaiting deportation from Australian facilities. He did, however, admit that security on Christmas Island was being beefed up, as the detention facility there is being increasingly used to house bikie gang members and other high risk offenders awaiting deportation. “It is true that there have been upgrades at the Christmas Island facility because we... will cancel visas of people who pose significant risk to the Australian public, as well as people otherwise who have had their visas cancelled,” Dutton said.
10.34pm BST22:3410.34pm BST22:34
Peter Dutton: "The accounts have shifted in the last few days .."Peter Dutton: "The accounts have shifted in the last few days .."
The immigration minister, Peter Dutton, has been interviewed by ABC’s Radio National about the truly terrible case of a Somali refugee allegedly raped and impregnated on Nauru.The immigration minister, Peter Dutton, has been interviewed by ABC’s Radio National about the truly terrible case of a Somali refugee allegedly raped and impregnated on Nauru.
Controversy about this case has raged over this past weekend.Controversy about this case has raged over this past weekend.
As my colleague Shalailah Medhora reports, the 23-year old woman, known as Abyan, was flown back to Nauru from Australia on Friday. The refugee had been in Australia for an abortion, a procedure difficult to access on Nauru.As my colleague Shalailah Medhora reports, the 23-year old woman, known as Abyan, was flown back to Nauru from Australia on Friday. The refugee had been in Australia for an abortion, a procedure difficult to access on Nauru.
Dutton has said Abyan was flown back out of Australia because she had changed her mind about having the termination. He denied claims that she was removed before lawyers could seek an injunction prohibiting her return to Nauru. But the refugee’s lawyer, George Newhouse, told Guardian Australia she had not changed her mind about wanting a termination.Dutton has said Abyan was flown back out of Australia because she had changed her mind about having the termination. He denied claims that she was removed before lawyers could seek an injunction prohibiting her return to Nauru. But the refugee’s lawyer, George Newhouse, told Guardian Australia she had not changed her mind about wanting a termination.
Dutton has evidently had enough of being the bad guy. During his ABC interview, he unloaded on the advocates attempting to assist the woman – accusing refugee advocates of a gross breach of the woman’s privacy, and worse, of “trading off this lady’s very difficult circumstances”.Dutton has evidently had enough of being the bad guy. During his ABC interview, he unloaded on the advocates attempting to assist the woman – accusing refugee advocates of a gross breach of the woman’s privacy, and worse, of “trading off this lady’s very difficult circumstances”.
He’s also alleged various (unnamed) people have fabricated accounts of what’s occurred over the past few days. Dutton told his host, Fran Kelly, accounts of her treatment and circumstances “have shifted over the past few days.” PDuddy thinks the advocates should be held to account for the inconsistencies.He’s also alleged various (unnamed) people have fabricated accounts of what’s occurred over the past few days. Dutton told his host, Fran Kelly, accounts of her treatment and circumstances “have shifted over the past few days.” PDuddy thinks the advocates should be held to account for the inconsistencies.
PDuddy says the government has been trying to assist the woman – hence the charter flight to Australia and then transport back to Nauru. Asked whether she’ll be permitted to return to Australia for a termination, Dutton said the government would seek to act in the woman’s best interests, however the government was in the business of providing medical support, not migration outcomes.PDuddy says the government has been trying to assist the woman – hence the charter flight to Australia and then transport back to Nauru. Asked whether she’ll be permitted to return to Australia for a termination, Dutton said the government would seek to act in the woman’s best interests, however the government was in the business of providing medical support, not migration outcomes.
The woman issued a handwritten statement over the weekend via her lawyer, which has been published by Fairfax.The woman issued a handwritten statement over the weekend via her lawyer, which has been published by Fairfax.
It reads:It reads:
I was raped on Nauru. I have been very sick. I have never said thate [sic] I did not want a termination. I never saw a doctor. I saw a nurse at a clinic but there was no counselling. I [also] saw a nurse at Villawood but there was no interpreter. I asked but was not allowed to talk with my lawyer.I was raped on Nauru. I have been very sick. I have never said thate [sic] I did not want a termination. I never saw a doctor. I saw a nurse at a clinic but there was no counselling. I [also] saw a nurse at Villawood but there was no interpreter. I asked but was not allowed to talk with my lawyer.
Please help me.Please help me.
If you need one story to give you a clean read-through of the weekend events, here’s the latest news wrap from my colleague Ben Doherty.If you need one story to give you a clean read-through of the weekend events, here’s the latest news wrap from my colleague Ben Doherty.
Updated at 11.12pm BSTUpdated at 11.12pm BST
10.02pm BST22:0210.02pm BST22:02
Good morning good peopleGood morning good people
Good morning and welcome to Monday in Canberra. The flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, and the opinion polls are bouncing. More than likely.Good morning and welcome to Monday in Canberra. The flowers are blooming, the birds are chirping, and the opinion polls are bouncing. More than likely.
Fairfax Media’s Ipsos poll, published in the various outlets this morning, has the Coalition ahead of Labor 53-47 on two-party-preferred terms, and Malcolm Turnbull has opened up a crushing lead as preferred prime minister. It’s the best poll for the Coalition since the last federal election. Last week, the Newspoll had good news for Turnbull personally as well – a positive reception from voters – but the major parties were deadlocked on 50-50.Fairfax Media’s Ipsos poll, published in the various outlets this morning, has the Coalition ahead of Labor 53-47 on two-party-preferred terms, and Malcolm Turnbull has opened up a crushing lead as preferred prime minister. It’s the best poll for the Coalition since the last federal election. Last week, the Newspoll had good news for Turnbull personally as well – a positive reception from voters – but the major parties were deadlocked on 50-50.
Just a general observation. It’s pretty obvious Turnbull has delivered a sugar hit for the government. Given Tony Abbott’s consistently dreadful poll numbers, and with due respect to the new prime minister, anyone credible who wasn’t Tony Abbott would deliver a poll bounce for the government. The question is how substantial – and can the improvement be sustained? Theoretically at least, we are a year out from the next election, and a budget and a tax policy and other challenges lie in between then and now.Just a general observation. It’s pretty obvious Turnbull has delivered a sugar hit for the government. Given Tony Abbott’s consistently dreadful poll numbers, and with due respect to the new prime minister, anyone credible who wasn’t Tony Abbott would deliver a poll bounce for the government. The question is how substantial – and can the improvement be sustained? Theoretically at least, we are a year out from the next election, and a budget and a tax policy and other challenges lie in between then and now.
Another general observation. Ipsos seems more volatile than other major newspaper opinion polls.Another general observation. Ipsos seems more volatile than other major newspaper opinion polls.
The Australian Financial Review’s political editor, Laura Tingle, reflects on the gap between the two surveys in a comment piece this morning.The Australian Financial Review’s political editor, Laura Tingle, reflects on the gap between the two surveys in a comment piece this morning.
Now it is possible that in the last week, particularly in the wake of the Cayman Islands affair, voters’ views on Turnbull have crystallised. Alternatively, it may be that Newspoll didn’t quite pick the strength of a trend to the new prime minister and Ipsos has picked up more of a trend than was actually there. The bottom line for our pollies, though, is that the Ipsos poll is going to leave Labor feeling very sick – and the Coalition very relieved.Now it is possible that in the last week, particularly in the wake of the Cayman Islands affair, voters’ views on Turnbull have crystallised. Alternatively, it may be that Newspoll didn’t quite pick the strength of a trend to the new prime minister and Ipsos has picked up more of a trend than was actually there. The bottom line for our pollies, though, is that the Ipsos poll is going to leave Labor feeling very sick – and the Coalition very relieved.
Tingle points out, correctly of course, that the trend (teensy thing that it currently is) is our friend.Tingle points out, correctly of course, that the trend (teensy thing that it currently is) is our friend.
The underlying trends – the surge of support for Turnbull, the relief that Tony Abbott is gone, and the rise in the Coalition’s primary vote and decline in Labor’s primary vote – are not in dispute among pollsters doing quantitative and qualitative polling.The underlying trends – the surge of support for Turnbull, the relief that Tony Abbott is gone, and the rise in the Coalition’s primary vote and decline in Labor’s primary vote – are not in dispute among pollsters doing quantitative and qualitative polling.
If we screen out the noise, and cut to the chase, right now, you’d rather be Malcolm Turnbull than Bill Shorten, with the obvious caveats – a long way to go, anything can happen, and so on and so forth.If we screen out the noise, and cut to the chase, right now, you’d rather be Malcolm Turnbull than Bill Shorten, with the obvious caveats – a long way to go, anything can happen, and so on and so forth.
Rather like Politics Live. Long way to go. Anything can happen – and it very often does. In recognition of these verities I’ve opened the comments thread, and will do my best to visit throughout the day. We are also up and at ‘em on the Twits @murpharoo and @mpbowersRather like Politics Live. Long way to go. Anything can happen – and it very often does. In recognition of these verities I’ve opened the comments thread, and will do my best to visit throughout the day. We are also up and at ‘em on the Twits @murpharoo and @mpbowers
Buckle up, here comes Monday.Buckle up, here comes Monday.
Updated at 11.09pm BSTUpdated at 11.09pm BST