Treasurer Jim Chalmers says LGBTQ+ community ‘will count’ in survey with new topic covering sexual orientation and gender to be includedFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastThe government is adding a second new question to the 2026 census, restoring a proposed question on gender...

National species list expands, with orb spider named after Tom Hardy’s Marvel character, Venom, also includedFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastA laughing frog and an intertidal marine worm named after Sir David Attenborough are among 750 animals, plants and other organisms...

Victoria police erect ring of steel around event, which is expected to attract up to 25,000 activistsFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAs many as 25,000 protesters are expected to cause chaos ahead of a weapons expo to be held in Melbourne with some already vandalising hotels...

Experts say the state’s approach could provide a template for what can be achieved elsewhereFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastEight years ago, South Australia’s renewable energy future was in doubt as an extraordinary statewide blackout saw recriminations flow.On 28 September...

The prevalence of slot machines – known as pokies – in pubs and clubs across the country and betting on sport has created a culture of wagering It is a quiet night in Fairfield, in Sydney’s western suburbs. Inside a small brick building, a dozen Gamblers Anonymous members help themselves to coffee, tea and miniature meat pies. The meeting is taking...

Julie Collins describes avian flu situation as ‘dynamic’ as she highlights concerns about the impact to wildlife and agricultureGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastCensus to include questions on gender and sexualitySpeers finishes up by asking Chalmers about the ongoing census questions palaver.We have listened to the community....