What we learned, Monday 4 April
And with that, we are going to put this blog to bed.
Before we go, let’s recap the stories of the day:
- Janelle Saffin, the Labor state member for Lismore, says she wants the federal government to ‘step up some more’ with support for flood victims
- Tasmanian premier Peter Gutwein has announced his resignation, saying he has ‘nothing left in the tank to give’
- The latest round of nine Liberal preselections by a committee of three appointed by the party’s federal executive is likely to be challenged in the NSW supreme court
- The foreign minister, Marise Payne, will fly to Brussels tomorrow for a meeting of Nato foreign affairs ministers regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine
Thank you for spending the day with us. We will be back tomorrow to do it all again.
Updated
Callous attitudes to sex and the belief “violence is manly” are among the challenges in changing the male-dominated culture of the Australian Defence Force, a royal commission has been told.
Australia’s sex discrimination commissioner, Kate Jenkins gave evidence to the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide when hearings resumed on Monday.
The prime minister, Scott Morrison, has put out this statement after the resignation of Tasmanian premier Peter Gutwein.
Peter Gutwein leaves public life with gratitude and great respect.
As Premier since 2020, he led Tasmania through a once-in-a-century pandemic. Peter did not put a foot wrong.
As Treasurer since 2014, Peter along with former Premier Will Hodgman was the architect of Tasmania’s economic revival.
He leaves politics with a world-best response to COVID and a Tasmanian economy thriving with jobs at a record high.
His contributions to the National Cabinet have been invaluable.
As Prime Minister and beforehand as Treasurer, I have always respected the way Peter has demonstrated strength and compassion in his leadership, delivering jobs and lifting communities. He is a great Tasmanian leader.
However, public life demands a great deal from all of us. Peter has come to the realisation that he has given it his all. Not only a public figure, Peter is a husband and father as well and he knows where he has to be.
I thank Peter for everything he has done for the Liberal Party, Tasmania and Australia – and on behalf of his federal colleagues, I wish him and his wife Mandy, and children Finn and Millie, all the best for the next chapter in their life together.
Updated
Marise Payne heading to Brussels for meeting with Nato colleagues
The foreign minister, Marise Payne, says she will fly to Brussels tomorrow for a meeting of Nato foreign affairs ministers “to discuss our coordinated international response to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and other global security challenges”.
It is worth pointing out Australia is not a Nato member but is classed as one of the body’s “enhanced opportunities partners”. In a statement issued this afternoon, Payne said Australia and Nato enjoyed “a deep and enduring partnership, unified in our shared values of freedom, democracy, human rights and the rules-based order”.
She said:
Nato is an important partner to Australia because challenges to global stability are not confined by geographic regions or boundaries. Our relationship reflects the fact that security in the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions are connected and we share a commitment to maintaining that security across regions.
Payne said she would also meet with a number of ministerial counterparts in Brussels. She said Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine showed global peace and security “can never be taken for granted”.
She added that the meeting with Nato colleagues should “strengthen our international solidarity in responding to Russia’s illegal and unjust actions”.
Updated
Latest Liberal preselections likely to be challenged by NSW supreme court
The latest round of nine Liberal preselections by a committee of three appointed by the party’s federal executive is likely to be challenged in the NSW supreme court, potentially adding to the party’s problems on the eve of the federal election.
A judgement from the NSW court of appeal in a legal challenge mounted by a state liberal party member is expected on Tuesday and will determine whether the committee, chaired by prime minister Scott Morrison, had the power to intevene to appoint environment minister, Sussan Ley, immigration minister, Alex Hawke and the MP for North Sydney, Trent Zimmerman as candidates last month.
But it could also cast doubt over the nine selections and endorsements of candidates by the committee announced on the weekend.
The Guardian understands that a fresh legal challenge to those selections is being prepared and will be lodged in court within days.
The federal branch of the Liberal party has now twice taken over the NSW division after factional manoeuvring held up rank and file preselections.
The NSW appeal court is considering whether the action by the federal office is justified.
If the plaintiff, Matthew Camenzuli, a member of the state executive who has been championing rank and file preselections, wins, all the recent actions by the committee will be in doubt. He is planning further action in a bid to challenge the more recent endorsements by the committee.
Updated
We have more information on the Blue Mountains landslide from NSW ambulance, who were called to the scene just before 1.30pm.
Seven paramedic road crews including special operations paramedics and two rescue helicopters were dispatched to the scene, with a critical care doctor on board.
On arrival, paramedics located the five people, including two had sadly died.
NSW ambulance acting chief superintendent Stewart Clarke:
This is absolutely heartbreaking for all involved and a truly tragic ending to what I’m sure was meant to be a pleasant day out.
It is terribly sad to have lost two lives here today and my heart goes out to the families and the survivors of this horrific ordeal who have witnessed what is certainly a traumatic event.
This was a really complex and delicate rescue operation for our crews, who were working to access patients in rugged bushland and were navigating unstable ground.
Updated
The injured boy and woman have been treated by paramedics at the scene. They will be taken to hospital.
One person in the group will be able to walk out.
Obviously, there’s been a major weather event. I can’t comment on the condition of the walking track.
So today’s operations really focused on getting us in there, getting the rescue of the critically injured, and the recovery of those that have unfortunately passed away in ... very tragic circumstances.
Updated
NSW police say two people – another boy and a woman – are being rescued in the Blue Mountains.
They are in critical conditions and both have significant head and abdominal injuries, meaning they will need to be sedated and intubated before they are extracted.
NSW police said a member of the group called 000 and gave the location.
Updated
Man and boy dead after Blue Mountains landslide, police say
NSW police are holding a press conference about the rescue taking place in the Blue Mountains.
A boy and a man are dead, police say.
Updated
Four of the Australian defence force’s Bushmaster vehicles have been repainted and modified and will be be flown to Ukraine within the week, the ABC is reporting.
During last week’s address to parliament, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy nominated the armoured vehicles as the type of practical help his country needed right now.
The request took the ADF by surprise and they have been hurriedly trying to get the Bushmasters ready to go. They were repainted over the weekend in Brisbane before being delivered to RAAF Base Amberley, near Brisbane.
In the next few days they will be loaded onto a C-17 Globemaster aircraft and flown to Europe.
Updated
Former New South Wales minister Pru Goward and a former chief of staff to Scott Morrison are among six people with Liberal links appointed to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal among 19 appointments.
On Monday the attorney general, Michaelia Cash, announced that Goward and Ann Duffield had been appointed senior members, jobs that receive pay of at least $330,000 a year, if employed on a full time basis, for up to seven years.
Two hikers dead and three trapped after Blue Mountains landslide
Two bushwalkers have been killed and three others are trapped after a landslide near Wentworth Falls in the NSW Blue Mountains, AAP reports.
An urgent rescue effort is underway at Wentworth Pass after the landslip early on Monday afternoon.
Three walkers are in the care of paramedics at the scene, as efforts to extract them from the area continue.
Two police helicopters are on the scene assisting in the rescue effort, as well as specialist police and NSW ambulance crews, including a critical care doctor and a critical care paramedic.
NSW police expect to provide a further update along with NSW ambulance on Monday afternoon.
Updated
West Australian police chief Chris Dawson will replace Kim Beazley as the state’s next governor, having played a lead role in the state’s Covid-19 response.
AAP reports Dawson, 63, will take office in July, premier Mark McGowan announced on Monday.
He will become the state’s 34th governor, relinquishing his roles as police commissioner and state emergency coordinator.
A former head of the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, Dawson took over as police commissioner in 2017. He has overseen the enforcement of border restrictions, vaccine mandates and public health rules during the pandemic.
The premier described Dawson as an exemplary West Australian who had devoted his life to public service.
“It’s no secret that the government has relied very heavily upon his work and his officers’ work over the course of the last two years during Covid,” McGowan told reporters.
McGowan thanked Beazley for his service, saying he had conducted himself with dignity and grace.
The former federal Labor leader, with whom McGowan has a longstanding connection, had reportedly been eager to serve another two years.
“He’s done a great job ... he’s revitalised the role and made it very much about advocating for Western Australia,” McGowan said.
“But eventually your role as governor comes to an end.”
Updated
Flood warnings remain in place in parts of eastern Victoria after heavy rain and strong winds lashed Gippsland overnight.
Moderate flood warnings have been issued for the Mitchell and Snowy Rivers, with minor warnings issued for the Avon, Cann, Genoa, Tambo and Nicholson Rivers. There is also a flood watch warning for East Gippsland and the eastern parts of West and South Gippsland.
Two people dead after Blue Mountains landslide – report
The ABC is reporting that two people have died and two others are in a critical condition after a landslide in the Blue Mountains. Emergency crews are on the scene, with a rescue operation underway.
We will bring you more on this as it comes.
Updated
In finishing, Gutwein thanks Tasmanians again:
We took the smallest state through a pandemic. We created one of the safest places on the planet to live in [and] importantly one of the best economies and strongest job markets in the country.
Thank you for your support.
Updated
Gutwein is speaking about his Christmas and New Year’s Eve, which prompted him to think about resigning.
This is the first time a state leader has opened up so much on the personal impacts of leading through a pandemic:
On Boxing Day I came back ... to Hobart as a result of the border opening and the need to provide leadership. I left Hobart on New Year’s Eve and drove to Bridport. I spent four hours in Bridport, which was meant to be four days. That night we had an increasing case count.
I was walking on the beach with my wife and I said, look, I’ve got to get back in the car and I’ve got to get back to Hobart. And I’ve spent most of January in Hobart managing the pandemic.
He says the longest period he has spent in his own house in Launceston is seven days.
I think that says it all.
Updated
Gutwein says he has 'nothing left in the tank to give'
Gutwein is asked if it was a hard decision to resign.
I’m somebody that gets up and gives 110% every day and what I found, after the last two years especially, is I’ve got nothing left in the tank to give.
I have worked as hard as I possibly can every single day that I’ve been premier. And as I’ve said I’ve got nothing left in a tank and unless you can give 110% to the role of premier you shouldn’t be doing this job and I can no longer give ... 110%.
Gutwein says he will now “do as little as possible” and spend time with his family.
I’ve got a daughter who will turn 18 tomorrow I have a son who’s 15, and I will spend time with them. And I want to support my wife.
Updated
Gutwein says he will remain as premier until the party elects a new leader later this week. He will also resign as the member for Bass.
Goodbye and thank you to all of Tasmania.
Updated
Gutwein:
We were the first state that took a step to ban cruise ships ... We were the first state to close our borders, which was quickly followed by other states, and we quickly turned what had been a 200-year disadvantage of being a small island at the bottom of the Australian landmass into a major positive for the state.
It’s one that came with a cost, that impacted on people. But at the end of the day, it was the right thing to do. And Tasmania has been able to emerge from a worldwide pandemic, as I’ve said, with a nation-leading economy. Jobs are at a record high and the unemployment rate is at a record low. However, without doubt, the greatest highlight for me as premier has been the courage and compassion of Tasmanians.
There is nowhere like this place in the world and the examples of common humanity and kindness that I have witnessed over the last two years will remain with me, stay with me for the rest of my life.
I want to thank Tasmanian sincerely for their efforts. They have been fantastic.
Updated
Gutwein:
When I became premier, I wanted to lead a government of conviction, of compassion and one of opportunity. And to ensure that Tasmanians knew, [whatever] their background, their circumstance, that they would be able to grasp those opportunities.
And while [there will] always be challenges, to have one of the fastest growing economies in the country, along with record levels of employment and a budget that is in good shape as we come out of a worldwide pandemic, these are things that I am immensely proud of.
Updated
Gutwein:
I wish to thank all of my colleagues their incredible support and efforts over the last two years whilst I’ve been premier. I could not have had a more supportive cabinet.
Tasmania is in good shape and the team I leave behind has safe hands and a great deal of experience and importantly talent.
I would [extend] my deepest gratitude to the Liberal party and to the people of Bass, who have enabled me this incredible opportunity and entrusted me to represent them in parliament for the last 20 years.
I want to thank all of my incredible staff, both here in the north and especially on level 11 in Hobart. They’ve all gone above and beyond in their roles to support our priorities as a government to support me none more so than Andrew Finch, my chief of staff.
Updated
Gutwein says he wants to spend time focusing on his family after two years of Covid:
The time is now right for me to move on, and to tend to other things in my life.
The past two years have delivered unforeseen challenges as we’ve navigated through Covid-19 and focused on rebuilding a stronger Tasmania during this time. I’ve quite rightly focused on everyone else’s family. I now want to spend some time focusing on my own.
I sincerely want to thank all Tasmanians. I’m not a silver spooner – far from it. I come from a humble background and nothing has given me more pleasure than being able to support our community, especially those who like me come from less privileged backgrounds.
And thank the broader Tasmanian community for the support and for working with me when it was needed over the last few years. Together, we have saved hundreds of thousands of Tasmanian lives. That is something that all Tasmanians should be very proud of.
Updated
Tasmanian premier Peter Gutwein announces resignation
Premier Peter Gutwein is speaking in Tasmania. He is announcing his resignation.
Updated
Independent MP for Warringah Zali Steggall has gone in hard over the new Australia Institute report that reveals the federal government gives $11.6bn to the fossil fuel industry in Australia.
‼️The Government is currently spending $11.6 billion a year on propping up the fossil fuel industry!! That's $22,000 every single minute, according to a new report by @TheAusInstitute out today.
— 🌏 Zali Steggall MP (@zalisteggall) April 4, 2022
Let's do some quick math. 🧵 1/4#climateactnow #auspol #budget22 pic.twitter.com/Eg8FfymnoO
$11.6b on fossil fuel subsidies every year =
— 🌏 Zali Steggall MP (@zalisteggall) April 4, 2022
56 x more than National Recovery & Resilience Agency funding; OR⁰
10 x more than national Emergency Response Fund‼️
⁰#climateactnow #auspol #budget22 #lismorefloods
2/4
The Government’s net zero commitment is fake‼️They are planning to CUT the budget for emissions reductions bodies by 35% over next 4 years. ⁰⁰#climateactnow #auspol #Budget22
— 🌏 Zali Steggall MP (@zalisteggall) April 4, 2022
3/4
As we survey the destruction along our coast, and the devastating fallout of the Lismore floods, we know the Government is significantly more invested in climate destruction than climate recovery.#climateactnow #auspol #lismorefloods #Budget22
— 🌏 Zali Steggall MP (@zalisteggall) April 4, 2022
4/4
Updated
Fears for five hikers in Blue Mountains after landslide
There is a rescue operation underway in the Blue Mountains, with concerns for five hikers after a landslide. We will bring you more on this as it comes.
A rescue operation is currently underway in the Blue Mountains.
— NSW Police Force (@nswpolice) April 4, 2022
About 1.40pm today, emergency services were called to Wentworth Pass, Wentworth Falls, due to concerns for the welfare for five bushwalkers following a landslip near the pass.
No further information is available. pic.twitter.com/HqSGDQegeK
Updated
Premier Peter Gutwein is making an “important announcement” at 4pm #politas
— Emily Baker (@emlybkr) April 4, 2022
Waving a Nazi flag or displaying memorabilia bearing swastikas will be criminalised in New South Wales, with the state government preparing laws to ban the symbol.
The attorney general, Mark Speakman, has indicated that the government is committed to introducing a bill to criminalise the public display of Nazi symbols to “provide an additional safeguard to the existing protections in NSW against vilifying conduct”.
Scott Morrison has been quick to claim a drop in petrol prices was due to his government’s action on fuel excise in last week’s budget, AAP reports.
But economists point out there was an even bigger influence from a plunge in global oil prices.
Petrol prices have dropped below $2 a litre in most jurisdictions across the country, coming less than a week after the treasurer, Josh Frydenberg, slashed fuel excise to assist with cost of living pressures.
The national average petrol price in the past week fell by a record 13.3 cents to 193.4 cents a litre, Australian Institute of Petroleum figures show.
A the time of handing down the budget last Tuesday, the treasurer did warn that the reduction could take a couple of weeks to feed through the system.
“We are already seeing those lower fuel prices find their way to the bowser, which means Australians are already receiving the benefits of a budget handed down less than a week ago,” Morrison told reporters in Melbourne.
“I welcome that and I thank the petroleum industry for passing through those savings so quickly.”
However, commonwealth securities senior economist Ryan Felsman said an even bigger influence has been the sharp fall in international oil and fuel prices.
“International crude oil prices – the biggest influence on Aussie petrol prices – plunged last week,” Felsman said.
“Unleaded petrol prices are expected to fall further this week.”
Updated
Nearly 130 native Australian reptiles targeted by international wildlife smugglers will be added to a global convention in a step the Morrison government and conservationists hope will stifle the “cruel and abhorrent” trade.
The spiny-tailed gecko, shingleback lizard and several blue-tongue lizard species are among the reptiles that the environment minister, Sussan Ley, has listed for inclusion under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (Cites).
Updated
Nearly 280,000 kilograms of illicit tobacco have gone up in smoke with authorities seizing the hefty haul in two separate busts in regional NSW, AAP reports.
The Australian Taxation Office snatched and destroyed the illicit tobacco, equivalent to the weight of approximately 14 bulldozers.
Its total street value is estimated to be more than $52m.
“Illicit tobacco is often grown by organised crime syndicates and the trade deprives the community of millions of dollars of taxes that could otherwise be used to fund essential community services,” said ATO acting assistant commissioner, Megan Croaker.
“November to May is peak growing season for illicit tobacco crops.”
While searching a property on March 29 in Thule, a small village in south-west NSW near the Victorian border, the ATO and police found 33 acres of illegal tobacco crops.
They also discovered 756 kilograms of tobacco leaves stored on site in hessian bags.
That trove was estimated to be worth more than $40m.
Updated
Not registered to vote yet? Here is how:
Perrottet says:
Have confidence in us. We had a pretty good relationship with the federal government and agreements that we will go 50-50 during this period of time but ultimately, we are the ones on the ground.
Where we see a need, we are going to deliver, and ultimately my job as premier of the state is to make sure we support every community in the northern rivers to get back on their feet.
That is what I am going to do. I will accept any financial support that I can get. Whether that is from the federal government – probably a bit of a struggle with the local government ... That’s right, he probably needs our support.
But ultimately, I will take whatever financial support we can get and we’re just going to keep moving here. We are going to keep moving whatever support comes, that would be great but ultimately our strong financial management here in New South Wales has put us in a strong position. We are the strongest state in the country, we provided support during pandemic, bushfires, and we will do it again because that is what governments do.
Updated
The premier is asked what he thinks about the federal government staying silent so far on if they will help this program after agreeing to go 50/50 in helping.
I’m not across that; my view, from the state government perspective, as premier of New South Wales, is that I want to get as much financial support out to these communities that have been affected. This is devastating. This is a catastrophic event that has occurred up in the northern rivers.
It is difficult for the cameras to do justice to what has occurred and it’s difficult to do justice to the long journey that lies ahead for many, many people and that requires financial support.
... There is no doubt, when you look at the last few years, it has been incredibly tough.
Updated
Janelle Saffin, the state member for Lismore is up:
Our community has been broken but, as I said to the premier, we are not beaten. And every bit of support that we get, like the announcement today, the back to home, all of that helps.
I have asked for $50,000 for the back to home that would require the federal government to be involved as well. But I welcome the $20,000 today and I said to the premier that that is a good start.
I welcome hearing the words ‘we have your back, we are with you for the long haul’, because that says to our community that the government has our back, the New South Wales government does, and it also says that we understand that this is a hard road and we have ... a long, hard journey, but we will be here with you.
She said she welcomes the news of financial support, but is always asking for more – and questions where the federal government is.
I want the federal government to step up some more. It is a bit too slow. I will leave it at that and I will hand over to the mayor.
Updated
Deputy Premier and leader of the New South Wales Nationals Paul Toole:
There is no doubt that when you look around the community at the moment we are starting to see some of those waters receding, but let’s not forget that there are other towns and communities still cut off.
Even today when we went up in the air and looked at the landscape, it is saturated and there is a lot of water lying around right now. We also know that many of those towns outlying are cut off still today. Many of those communities, many of those households are isolated. It is important that they know the government continues to be on the ground here to support them during this difficult time.
He say the government has been working on the $112 million support package for weeks and hopes it gets people back in their homes ASAP.
What has been the most important priority for us is about getting a roof over people’s heads and as the premier said, it is about putting carpet into the homes, making sure you can paint it, fixing up wiring and purchasing essential items that you need. Fridges, washing machines, toasters, the things that we need each and every day to call those places a home.
Updated
Perrottet:
And I know it can be very difficult, when you go through these crises, that at the start there is a lot of focus, a lot of media focus, a lot of charity focus, a lot of political focus but as time moves on that can dissipate. That will not happen this time, I can assure you.
We will be here for the long haul. I want every single community in the northern rivers to be back on their feet and we will be with them every single step of the way.
Some key things. As I said, it is a long journey, one day at a time but my clear message to every community in the northern rivers is that we have your back and we will be with you every single step of the way.
It is a long journey and I know from right across the public service and the teams here today, it can be overwhelming but I know they are making a difference and to see the progress made is incredibly positive. It is a long way to go still but there is no bigger challenge, no bigger challenge facing our state right now than getting everyone back on their feet and we are completely committed to doing that.
Updated
Perrottet:
And it is great to see the confidence, and while it is difficult for me, and obviously a lot of emotion is in there and it is still raw, as many people are getting back to fixing up their homes, fixing up their businesses and getting on with the job. Taking each day at a time.
And to meet so many business owners who I met last time when I was here, to see the progress that they have made, not just in relation to their businesses but, importantly, in relation to how they are going themselves is incredibly pleasing.
... The message that I really want to send to the community is that I will be up here for the next few days, until Wednesday, and as I said before when we were here, we will be with you every step of the way and have your back.
Updated
Dominic Perrottet speaks in Lismore
Dominic Perrottet is speaking now about the northern rivers community.
What always overwhelms me is the strength and resilience of the people of the northern rivers. I am in awe at the strength to have come through – not just the flood that we saw six weeks ago, but for many of our communities here, to be hit again and to still be standing strong, to still have the confidence is amazing.
Updated
Uninsured residents in flood-affected areas of New South Wales will be eligible for cash payments to help with the clean-up efforts after the state’s second major flooding event in a month, as recovery efforts continue across the state.
The premier, Dominic Perrottet, will announce the grants of up to $20,000 in Lismore on Monday, which will also be his first day back after taking leave after the birth of his seventh child.
Morrison:
The third point here is this budget guarantees the essential services that Australians rely on ...
When Labor was last in power, they could not list medicines on the pharmaceutical benefits scheme, because they ran out of money and did not know how to run a budget. That means people are being denied life-saving and life-changing medicines ... [That’s] what having a good budget and strong economy is all about.
Then, of course, there is the investments we make in our defence and security. The almost $10 billion we invested to enhance cyber security defences and offences, the first job I did.
Updated
Morrison is spruiking the Coalition’s budget now, saying it will help people with the cost of living.
We are already seeing it at the gas pump now, as you move around Melbourne – I was at northern Tasmania yesterday and I’ve been in other parts of the country, and we are already seeing lower fuel prices find their way which means Australians are already receiving the benefits of a budget handed down less than a week ago.
They will soon be followed up by much-needed support for pensioners and others who receive those types of payments, $250 to support them in dealing with rising costs of living caused by those fuel price increases.
Of course, then on the 1st of July, there will be the increased tax cuts, the common tax rebates, for people to keep more of their own money, $420 of anything up to $126,000, which enables you to deal with real cost of living pressures now.
Updated
Morrison is asked what he thinks about Victoria’s seven-day isolation requirement for close contacts.
I’m looking forward to that being removed. I’m looking forward to that being removed. Ultimately that is a decision for the premier. We don’t make those decisions at the commonwealth level. It is premiers who decide to shut cities down or open them up, not the commonwealth government.
Updated
Morrison has been asked a question about allegations that his 2007 preselection battle included “malicious slurs” about his competitors Lebanese heritage:
I have been very clear, I absolutely reject that as malicious slurs. It is outrageous. I have dealt with it, time and again. And the leaders of the Lebanese community have spoken most significantly about this matter, and just what is behind all this and I think it is clear.
Morrison is arguing the Coalition has a stronger track record on the economy.
Under our Constitution, we selected the candidates and I’m pleased with the candidates we have been able to select. I look forward to campaigning alongside them over the course of this election.
This is why we go to elections every three years, because we have a strong plan that is being delivered. I look forward, over the course of the election campaign, to set out clearly how our plan has kept 700,000 Australians in work. All of us remember jobkeeper.
Updated
Scott Morrison speaking in Melbourne
The PM says Anthony Albanese is trying to get to the election quickly because he does not want to be scrutinised.
He had the opportunity last week to [put out] an economic plan for the country. He didn’t. The Opposition, the Labor party and the Greens, have a blank page when it comes to economic policy.
What does that mean for you? It means that he hasn’t, after all this time, told you what his economic plan is. Then how can you trust the Labor party that when they were last in government, saw unemployment rise from 4.2% to 5.7%? When I made this point to Anthony Albanese the other day, he said: “But you are forgetting the global financial crisis.”
I don’t know where he has been the last couple of years, but we had to face an economic crisis 30 times worse than the global financial crisis that the Labor party had to face. And we got employment outcomes that are 50% better. That is what good economic management looks like.
Updated
We are going live to Melbourne where the prime minister is speaking.
Updated
Scott Morrison’s predecessor for the seat of Cook says he never heard Morrison make remarks about the race or religion of preselection rival Michael Towke, and questioned the motives of those making such allegations.
With the federal election campaign likely just days away from being officially declared, the Coalition is in damage control after damning allegations about the controversial 2007 Liberal preselection process were again raised in the media over the weekend, with numerous government MPs lining up to defend the prime minister.
From AAP:
A trial monitoring federal government staffers who visit Parliament House after hours is under way, following an alleged staffer rape in 2019.
Leanne Tunningley, from the security branch of the parliamentary services department, told a Senate estimates committee on Monday the trial began last month and records all political staffers accessing the building between 11pm and 5am.
Workers will need to complete paper forms when entering parliament, with their manager or parliamentarian to be notified the next business day.
Tunningley said parliamentarians could also “opt out” of receiving the information, with the record to be held by the department.
The trial will run when parliament is sitting, and will end in November this year.
Updated
ACT records 739 new Covid cases
The ACT has recorded 739 new cases of Covid-19.
There are 45 people in hospital with the virus, of which four are in intensive care and two are on ventilation.
ACT COVID-19 Update – 4 April 2022
— ACT Health (@ACTHealth) April 4, 2022
💉 COVID-19 vaccinations
▪ Aged 5-11 years (1 dose): 80.2%
▪ Aged 5-11 years (2 doses): 54.0%
▪ Aged 5+ years (2 doses): 98.4%
▪ Aged 16+ years (3 doses): 73.4%
Please note vaccine data is from 1 April 2022. pic.twitter.com/pEYINYIjMl
Updated
National coronavirus update
Here are the latest numbers from around Australia today, as the country records at least 14 deaths from Covid 19:
ACT
- Deaths: 0
- Cases: 739
- In hospital: 45 (with 4 people in ICU)
NSW
- Deaths: 6
- Cases: 15,572
- In hospital: 1,418 (with 56 people in ICU)
NT
- Deaths: 0
- Cases: 309
- In hospital: 14 (with 1 person in ICU)
Queensland
- Deaths: 1
- Cases: 7,707
- In hospital: 437 (with 14 people in ICU)
South Australia
- Deaths: 0
- Cases: 4,595
- In hospital: 209 (with 8 people in ICU)
Victoria
- Deaths: 1
- Cases: 10,011
- In hospital: 305 (with 17 people in ICU)
Western Australia
- Deaths: 6
- Cases: 6,082
- In hospital: 231 (with 6 people in ICU)
Updated
QLD has recorded one death and 7,707 Covid cases
Queensland has reported one death from Covid-19 in the last 24 hours. There are 437 people in the hospital and of those 14 are in ICU.
Yesterday there were no deaths.
The state now has 61,187 active cases.
Today we have recorded 7,707 new COVID-19 cases.
— Queensland Health (@qldhealth) April 4, 2022
We have reported 1 death in the past 24 hours.
Full details ➡️ https://t.co/2vvTmlzIil pic.twitter.com/euonxbvpa8
Updated
We have this statement from the PM’s office:
The Morrison government today approved a $1.25 billion loan through the Critical Minerals Facility to Australian company Iluka Resources, to develop Australia’s first integrated rare earths refinery in Western Australia.
The refinery will produce separated rare earth oxide products (Praseodymium, Dysprosium, Neodymium and Terbium), which are used in permanent magnets in a wide range of technologies, including electric vehicles, clean energy generation and defence.
The Eneabba Refinery Project strongly aligns with the objectives of the government’s Critical Minerals Strategy. It will capture more value on-shore from our critical minerals, strengthen Australia’s position as a trusted supplier of critical minerals, and create regional jobs crucial for the new energy economy.
This loan builds on our government’s support for the critical minerals sector to help realise our vision of becoming a global critical minerals powerhouse by 2030.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the announcement represented a decisive step forward in rare earths production and processing in Australia.
Australia has the best resource industry in the world and we have an unrivalled competitive-edge when it comes to being a reliable, sustainable provider of critical minerals and rare earths,” the prime minister said.
Our support for this project will capitalise on our advantages, helping to strengthen Australia’s critical minerals supply chain while also creating huge job and economic opportunities for Australians for generations to come.
Australia’s critical minerals are in demand because they are the key input for everything from mobile phones to fighter jets, not to mention the technologies of the future that haven’t even been realised yet.
Updated
Hello everyone, this is Cait Kelly. A big thanks to Mostafa for taking the blog through the morning.
You can reach me on Twitter; @cait__kelly or cait.kelly@theguardian.com if you want to flag anything.
Let’s get into it!
Updated
And with that, my time on the blog comes to an end today, I leave you in the trusty hands of Cait Kelly. Thanks for reading.
A moment of raw ocean chaos as two giant waves collide off the cliffs at North Maroubra on Saturday morning. For scale, this mountain of whitewater from my perspective was easily around 30 feet in height. #Sydney #storm #swell @Surfline_Aus @CanonAustralia #Australia pic.twitter.com/KIQakTSs91
— Dallas Kilponen (@dallaskilponen) April 3, 2022
'Tell the truth about the war': Zelenskiy's Grammys message
Jumping over to the United States for a moment, where Ukranian president Volodymyr Zelenskiy has appeared at the Grammy awards via videolink.
Zelenskiy’s pre-taped speech was part of the introduction for Legend’s performance of “Free” as part of a special tribute to Ukraine, where he spoke about the need for music in difficult times:
The war. What’s more opposite to music?
Our musicians wear body armour instead of tuxedos. They sing to the wounded. In hospitals. Even to those who can’t hear them. But the music will break through anyway.
On our land, we are fighting Russia which brings horrible silence with its bombs. The dead silence.
Fill the silence with your music. Fill it today, to tell our story. Support us in any way you can. Any, but not silence. And then peace will come.
I have dream of them living, and free. Free like you on the Grammy stage.
You can keep track of the Grammy winner’s list at the link below:
Updated
Third attempt launched to expand role of Australian Renewable Energy Agency
The Morrison government has launched a third attempt to change the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (Arena) to allow it to fund a broader range of technologies, including some using fossil fuels.
The Senate has twice in the past year used a disallowance motion to block new regulations introduced by the emissions reduction minister, Angus Taylor, to expand Arena’s role.
The most recent disallowance passed last Monday. It was moved by a parliamentary committee led by outgoing Liberal senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells, who said the regulations were not in line with what the parliament envisaged when it passed the laws creating Arena.
On Friday, with parliament having risen until after the upcoming election, Taylor released a third set of regulations to change Arena. It differs from the first two, and will apply unless blocked by the Senate of the next parliament.
Senate estimates heard on Monday that the new version would allow Arena to fund a bigger range of technologies than Taylor’s last attempt, which was explicitly tied to priority areas under the Coalition’s low-emissions technology roadmap.
The latest version says Arena will be able to fund clean energy technologies as defined by the board of a separate government agency, the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (sometimes described as the national “green bank”).
This has created some confusion as CEFC is banned from funding carbon capture and storage (CCS) projects. Estimates heard Arena would not be subject to the same ban.
Based on evidence provided by officials, the new regulations could allow Arena to fund developments that use CCS such as the development of “blue” hydrogen made with gas.
They could also let the agency back low-emissions transport, cement, steel and aluminium developments and carbon capture and utilisation projects.
Labor, the Greens and some crossbenchers oppose parts of the expansion that would allow Arena to fund projects using fossil fuels.
Through a spokesperson, Taylor said the government was committed to ensuring its agencies could “support the full range of technologies that will reduce emissions”.
These changes are supported by a broad cross-section of peak bodies and industry groups. In this term of parliament, Labor has joined with the Greens to oppose more funding for these agencies and a broader technology mandate.
Labor’s Chris Bowen said Taylor’s attempt to redraw the new regulations was “dodgy and incompetent”.
The only thing that will stop this bloke’s attacks on cheaper and cleaner energy is a change of government.
The Greens leader, Adam Bandt, said it was “a blatant attempt to ignore the law and undermine the renewable energy agency”.
Sneakily acting after parliament has risen might buy the Liberals a few weeks, but we’ve defeated them before and – after we kick the Liberals out at the election – we will defeat them again.
Estimates heard Arena could already fund a range of technologies beyond solar and wind power before the change. They included bioenergy, battery storage, hydro power, pumped hydro, demand storage, green hydrogen made using renewable energy, geothermal and ocean energy.
Updated
In Senate estimates, Labor’s Kristina Keneally is cross-examining the home affairs department on $14.2m allocated in the 2021 budget for maritime surveillance, and a Peter Dutton press release that underwater sensors and unmanned drones are “critical” to patrolling Australia’s borders.
The department’s secretary, Michael Pezzullo, said it investigated those modes of technology and the response was not “underwhelming” but was “not convincing that the shift to new technology was warranted”.
As a result, the department decided to stick with fixed-wing aircraft surveillance.
Deputy secretary Mark Ablong said the $14.2m was spent on “risk reduction activities” and “evaluation of alternatives” before it decided unmanned drones would not meet requirements.
Keneally said this is another instance of the government being “all about promise and not about delivery”.
Updated
Changes to Victorian Covid isolation rules would be 'premature', minister says
Victoria’s minister for medical research, Jaala Pulford, has rejected calls to scrap the state’s isolation rules, saying it was too “premature” to change them.
Under the current rules, you would have to isolate for seven days if you spent more than four hours with someone who has tested positive in a house, accommodation or care facility.
Pulford told reporters earlier this morning that the government should continue to heed health advice to avoid overwhelming the health system:
While the numbers are still going up around Australia with this current wave, and because we have not yet peaked, it would be a risk that [the chief officers are] not prepared to recommend the government makes.
Updated
Appalled by reports of atrocities against Ukrainian civilians by Russian troops in Bucha and other towns. The targeting of innocent civilians and civilian infrastructure are war crimes. Russia must and will be held accountable for the actions of its armed forces. https://t.co/0lq9T0PYpV
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) April 3, 2022
Albanese labeled the Coalition’s approach to aged care as “heartless,” taking particular issue with the lack of wage growth for aged care workers in the budget:
Is the Coalition actually saying ‘we can’t afford to give older Australians decent food and decent care?’
They’re refusing … to respond to the recommendations of their royal commission.
Our older Australians deserve to live with dignity and respect – they deserve proper care.
The royal commission has said that unless you increase the wages of aged care workers, people will continue to leave the industry and older Australians will be left without workers to care for them.
We heard … stories about older Australians lying on the floor begging for help … to get up.
That is a human cost, and I find it astonishing that we’re reducing humanity to this debate as a result of a Coalition that shows itself to be heartless.
Their response was this absurdity of pretending that things can continue as they are.
Updated
Next up, Albanese attacked the Coalition for their military spending, saying it had amounted to very little:
What we have said in terms of defence is we will have a forward posture review. It will be the first we have had in a decade.
But the other points we have made about all of our defence investments is it has to produce something. It’s no good saying, oh, we’ve spent $4bn – which, by the way, is much more than the $2.5bn that we have committed to aged care in last week’s budget reply... $4bn that has produced nothing except a torn-up contract.
What we need to do is to make sure, and people like Greg Sheridan have pointed this out consistently in the Australian, that the problem with this government is that it has not produced an increase in our defence assets as a result of expenditure. And that is the issue.
We need to actually get smarter, make sure that our investments produce an outcome and produce greater capacity. Because what we have is a capability gap that is coming because of the failure of this government to actually deliver on its commitments.
Updated
Albanese was also asked at the presser how he will fund Labor’s aged care plan, a recurring line of attack from the Coalition.
Albanese responded saying he would prioritise cutting “waste” over raising taxes:
What we will do is get rid of waste. That’s one of the things we will be doing.
Our tax policy ... is making multinationals pay their fair share so that Australian businesses aren’t disadvantaged in our economy.
And I will say this. Is the Coalition actually saying we can’t afford to give older Australians decent food and decent care? Is that what they are saying?
They established a royal commission into aged care, which is in crisis. And now they are refusing to actually respond to the recommendations of their royal commission.
I make no apologies for saying that our older Australians deserve to live with dignity and with respect. They deserve proper care.
Updated
Albanese says Queensland is 'up for a change'
The opposition leader Anthony Albanese has been speaking in Queensland just now, where he said he’s been buoyed by Labor supporters telling him they are confident leading into the election.
A cheery looking Albanese took questions alongside the Queensland premier, Annastacia Palaszczuk, talking flooding support, and responded to a question about his chances in the state:
But we look forward to campaigning both here and in south-east Queensland. Our supporters are encouraged. Let me tell you, yesterday we had I don’t know how many hundred people there at the services club.
It was a services club that was used for people who were evacuated during the floods, and it was a very different feel there yesterday. People have been very positive.
What I would say is the feedback I have in Queensland this is to say they are up for a change. They are up for a change.
Updated
Grammy win for Australian band Rüfüs Du Sol
Australian band Rüfüs Du Sol have won a Grammy for best dance/electronic track, beating heavy hitters including James Blake, Tiësto, Afrojack & David Guetta and Caribou.
Their winning song, Alive, earned the group best group and best dance release at the 2021 Aria awards and peaked at #18 on the US billboard chart.
It’s the third nomination but first win for the Sydney group, who were in attendence in Las Vegas. Guitarist Tyrone Lindqvist thanked “everyone who has danced to our music or tried to find it in a karaoke bar ... and my son who gets my wife and me to sing this song every night before he goes to bed.”
Australian artists The Kid Laroi, AC/DC and Hiatus Kaiyote were also nominated in this year’s awards, along with FnZ and Nick Cave & Warren Ellis.
You can check out the list of winners at the link below:
Updated
Home Affairs has confirmed that another 25 or so people who were exiled to Manus Island and Nauru and are currently imprisoned in Australia are currently being considered by the Minister for release into the community. This will leave just 6 or so in detention. Free them all now.
— Nick McKim (@NickMcKim) April 3, 2022
Heavy to intense rainfall across much of #Gippsland on the weekend has resulted in significant areas of #flooding. 🌧️
— Bureau of Meteorology, Victoria (@BOM_Vic) April 3, 2022
Much less rainfall expected today, but catchments & rivers may continue to respond as water moves downstream. #VicWeather
Latest warnings: https://t.co/CnezjlS6Mn pic.twitter.com/sBmRiurCH0
Perrottet to speak in Lismore
We’re expecting to hear from the NSW premier, Dominic Perrottet, who is returning from paternity leave to visit flood-hit Lismore later today.
Perrottet is set to announce grants of up to $20,000 for flood-affected households in eight government areas, including the Hawkesbury, Ballina, Byron, Clarence Valley, Kyogle, Lismore, Richmond Valley and Tweed LGAs.
The money is intended to benefit people who were not insured to help clean up and repair houses.
Updated
Victoria reports 10,011 new cases and one death
Victoria has recorded 10,011 new cases and one death overnight:
We thank everyone who got vaccinated and tested yesterday.
— VicGovDH (@VicGovDH) April 3, 2022
Our thoughts are with those in hospital, and the families of people who have lost their lives.
More data soon: https://t.co/OCCFTAtS1P#COVID19Vic #COVID19VicData pic.twitter.com/AzKpzBr3vs
Updated
NSW records 15,572 new cases and 6 deaths
NSW has reported 15,572 new cases and six deaths overnight:
COVID-19 update – Monday 4 April 2022
— NSW Health (@NSWHealth) April 3, 2022
In the 24-hour reporting period to 4pm yesterday:
- 96% of people aged 16+ have had one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine
- 94.6% of people aged 16+ have had two doses of a COVID-19 vaccine pic.twitter.com/xJUp3ED9Qh
Bruce Baird, the former member for Cook, Scott Morrison’s current seat, has come out and defended the PM against allegations he racially vilified a contender in a preselection battle in 2007.
Baird told the ABC he had “never” heard Morrison use “racist terms” and that Michael Towke, Morrison’s preselection opponent, had reignited the controversy because he was “ceremoniously dumped” as the candidate.
He [Morrison] worked with me for two years when I was on the Tourism Council and I never heard him use racist terms.
I’m sure that people who are opponents of Scott and of the Liberal party would raise it for their own reasons, and Towke was feeling concerned because he’d lost the preselection … but in terms of all my dealings, and I was around him all the time, never once did I hear that allegation.
I think [the] people making the claims ... you’ve got to question their credibility.
Updated
The New South Wales deputy police commissioner, Mal Lanyon, who is overseeing the flood recovery process in Lismore, said 600 people are still in emergency accomodation with many others sheltering elsewhere.
He said it was “heartbreaking” to see what residents, especially business owners, are having to deal with, with two major cleanups in a short period of time.
Speaking to ABC News, Lanyon said community spirit was still “absolutely incredible”:
Last week’s floods were something this community did not need and was another impact on the psyche of the community here. We had been quick in terms of cleaning up after the first floods. We moved over 17,500 truckloads of waste.
We know 600 people are in emergency accommodation, but there are many others sheltering with friends, loved ones, and people looking after them in the community.
It’s heartbreaking to see that they’d gone through one cleanup, they’re very much doing it again, whilst trying to get on their feet and actually trade again.
After that first flood, one of the greatest tributes I could give these communities up here was how well they banded together and looked after each other. There’s no doubt that last week’s second flood was a dent on their psyche. But they are a strong community up here. They’ve got past this before.
Updated
The Condamine River 03/04/22 10.4 meters at Condamine township 2nd time in 4 months pic.twitter.com/VRfACkv9OJ
— yarramundafarmer (@yarramundafarm1) April 3, 2022
Dan Tehan, the minister for trade, tourism and investment, says he is confident the Coalition will win the next election.
Speaking on RN Breakfast, Tehan also dismissed allegations Scott Morrison racially vilified his opponent for preselection, implying it was old news:
This is a story which dates back over a decade, we’re focused now on delivering for the Australian people.
We’re focused on delivering for the Australian people and the budget did deliver for the Australian people. Cost of living, making sure that extraordinary jobs growth we’ve seen will continue.
Tehan was also asked about the interim free trade agreement with India announced on Saturday, saying it will be worth “billions” to farmers and manufacturers.
It’ll be worth billions going forward, it sets them up to be integrated into the in the largest ... fastest growing economy in the world.
The key to it is to make sure you have that diversity of market ... so we get a leg-up when it comes to accessing this new growing market.
Updated
Next up, the deputy PM Barnaby Joyce has hit out at reports calling Scott Morrison a racist, saying it’s a “political hit job.”
Appearing on Sunrise earlier, Joyce essentially dismissed the claims Morrison racially vilified an opponent in preselection by saying the issue was only being discussed because there is an election coming up:
When you get these accusations right on the eve of an election they can [be] wrapped up as a political hit.
What we have seen is the Lebanese community has come out and backed Mr Morrison.
I think it’s a concern because … if you’re going to call someone a racist and they’re not, you’re using racism as your weapon.
What you do is you look at the timing of when [the claims] come out … if it’s just before an election then the purpose is obviously for political effect.
Joyce also said he thought the election will be called for 14 May (which is different to Littleproud’s prediction of the 21st).
Updated
Today’s first edition of politicians in the media is Coalition MP David Littleproud, who was on the Today show saying opposition leader Anthony Albanese won’t stand up to scrutiny during the election campaign.
Littleproud did admit that neither leader “has stratospheric popularity ratings,” but said Morrison had a better series of excuses (pandemic, bushfires, floods, war in Europe).
When the ruler gets run over Mr Albanese … I think we’ll see the real Albanese come out to shine and I think we’ll be somewhat disappointed.
What Australians are looking for is who’s going to lead them the best.
In the last few years, this government has gone through what no other has gone through before.
I say to people, reflect where you are in relation to the rest of the world – we’re a lot further ahead.
Of note, Littleproud saud he tipped the 21 May to be when he thinks the election will be held.
Updated
The Severe Weather Warning for heavy rain and damaging winds has been cancelled, however numerous flood warnings remain in place for parts of Gippsland. https://t.co/HLs2UYFQyQ pic.twitter.com/VwMZV0qwUF
— Bureau of Meteorology, Victoria (@BOM_Vic) April 3, 2022
Newspoll results show Labor still ahead post budget
Newspoll results published overnight have shown Labor’s two party lead drop slightly, to 54-46%, but remaining in the lead.
Labor’s primary vote dropped by three points to 38%, and the Coalition was up one point to 36% since the last poll, with the Greens rising by two points to 10%.
In terms of personal numbers, Morrison inched ahead of Albanese on the question of who would be a better PM, coming in at 43% to the opposition leader’s 42%.
The Coalition’s primary vote stood at 31% to Labor’s 35%, and on a two-party preferred basis Labor came in at 48% and the Coalition was at 37%, with 15% undecided.
If the 2019 election preference flow are used, with undecided votes distributed, Labor has a two-party lead of 55-45%.
Updated
Good morning
It’s Mostafa Rachwani with you this morning, coming to you from a bright and chilly Sydney.
We begin today in Victoria, where Gippsland residents have been urged to monitor flooding levels, after facing heavy rainfall and damaging winds yesterday. Watch and act warnings were issued for communities near the Cann River, Buchan River, Bemm River, Genoa River and the Snowy River downstream of McKillops Bridge.
Evacuation orders remain in place in northern NSW, covering much of Lismore, and communities along the Richmond River including Bungawalbin, Woodburn, Broadwater, and parts of Coraki and New Italy. Thousands of people are still unable to return home, with recovery efforts ongoing amid recurring rain.
The NSW coastline was battered by high waves and a strong swell across the weekend, with Bondi, Bronte and Tamarama facing up to 10m waves. Authorities say it could take weeks for the damage to clear up.
Elsewhere, the fourth Covid jab will begin rolling out today to people aged 65 and older, Indigenous Australians aged at least 50, disability care residents and the immunocompromised.
The fourth shot is available for people four months after their first booster, with an estimated 4.7 million people eligible but with fewer than 200,000 meeting requirements at the start of the rollout.
In federal politics, the prime minister Scott Morrison has said he is open to signing a statutory declaration denying he racially vilified Michel Towke, with whom he competed for preselection in 2007.
There is still much about, so let’s dive in.
