Full Story

One of the Albanese government’s most senior female advisers claims she has been barred from her office and effectively sacked. Richard Marles’ chief of staff, Jo Tarnawsky, alleges that in a 45-minute phone call on 30 April – after she raised a complaint about other staff behaviour – her employer told her to find another job – and further alleges that was not fair. Political editor Karen Middleton speaks to Reged Ahmad about why Tarnawsky decided to share her story and what this all means for parliament’s already maligned workplace culture You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

As early voting kicks off in the sunshine state, Labor is hoping progressive cost-of-living policies such as 50c public transport fares will help them cling on to another term. But every poll is showing the Liberal National opposition is on track to win the state election on 26 October. Queensland correspondent Ben Smee speaks with Tamsin Rose about how voters are being pulled to the right and the left by both major parties You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

A year ago on 14 October, as the results of Australia’s 2023 Indigenous voice to parliament referendum rolled in, many people were left devastated. After years of painstaking work and consultation, Australians had resoundingly voted no to enshrining a First Nations permanent advisory body in our constitution. But the campaign is far from over. One year on, Uluru youth dialogue co-chairs Allira Davis and Bridget Cama tell Reged Ahmad why they haven’t given up on constitutional recognition for First Nations Australians

Whoever gets into the White House – Donald Trump or Kamala Harris – they will need the two chambers of Congress to align with their values to get a lot of what they want to achieve done. And the race for the Senate is really hotting up. This week Jonathan Freedland speaks to Jessica Taylor, Senate and governors editor for the Cook Political Report, about whether Senate Democrats can defend their narrow control over the upper chamber, and what happens if the person who wins the White House doesn’t see eye-to-eye with those in power in Congress

Adam Morton, Guardian Australia's climate and environment editor, shares his insights on the recent global nature-positive summit in Sydney. He discusses the growing discontent among environmental advocates regarding the government's perceived lack of action. Morton highlights critiques on Australia's commitments to biodiversity and how proposed marine reserves may fall short amid ongoing industrial activities. He also contrasts Australia’s conservation efforts with those of other nations, and addresses the political hurdles complicating effective environmental legislation.

Caitlin Cassidy, a higher education reporter for Guardian Australia focused on AI's impact on universities, joins Jack Quinlan, a neuroscience and software engineering student at the University of Sydney. They discuss how universities have shifted from fearing AI to embracing it as a valuable educational tool. Jack shares insights on using AI for data analysis in his studies, while Caitlin highlights the need for faculty to adapt to this technology. Together, they explore the balance between leveraging AI’s benefits and tackling challenges like academic integrity and digital equity.

Political editor Karen Middleton from Guardian Australia dives into the emotional impact of the October 7 attacks and the Israel-Gaza war on Australian society. She discusses how this conflict is reshaping political discourse, revealing divides among leaders and communities. Middleton highlights the government's balancing act in addressing deeply felt emotions and scrutinizing the implications for national unity. As the crisis influences voter sentiment, she notes emerging political movements within Jewish and Muslim communities, redefining the landscape heading into elections.

Petra Stock, a climate and environment reporter for Guardian Australia, discusses Australia’s reliance on waste-to-energy projects. She explores the development of incineration plants and their environmental implications. The conversation highlights the benefits and risks of using burning rubbish for energy, juxtaposed with concerns about emissions and toxic residues. Petra also critiques the effectiveness of these initiatives in addressing landfill issues and examines how they fit into broader sustainability efforts like recycling and the circular economy.

In this captivating discussion, Josh Halliday, the Guardian's North of England editor, unpacks the disturbing rise of far-right riots in England. He highlights how misinformation spread like wildfire after a tragic incident, inciting racially charged violence against vulnerable communities. Halliday reveals that many of the arrested were locals, shattering myths about outsider involvement. The conversation also touches on the regrets of young participants, the societal tensions surrounding immigration, and the government’s struggle to balance law enforcement with community engagement.

Leah Wright-Rigueur, a political historian at Johns Hopkins University, offers keen insights on the recent vice presidential debate featuring JD Vance and Tim Walz. While Walz's performance was deemed solid but underwhelming, Vance aimed to revamp his public image. The discussion delves into the contrasting debate styles—polished versus folksy—and the significance of authenticity. They also explore the impact of escalating Middle Eastern tensions on U.S. foreign policy, particularly contrasting Biden and Trump's approaches, providing a rich context for today's political landscape.