The Latest Breaking News from ASIS

Spy chiefs’ efforts to avoid blame for the Solomons-China pact suggest a deep insecurity about a major failure — and could put sources at risk.

What was Liberal MP Dave Sharma doing from 2003-06? Advising Alexander Downer on negotiating with Timor-Leste over access to resources under the Timor Sea — after they’d bugged them.

Good morning, early birds. Premier Dominic Perrottet’s comments about transgender children are putting the NSW Coalition minority government at risk, and Prime Minister Scott Morrison has “deeply apologised” for saying he was “blessed” to have children without disability. It’s the news you need to know, with Emma Elsworthy.

The deal between the Solomon Islands and China is a major failure by Australia’s intelligence community — and by a government that’s been dismissive of the region’s concerns.