The Latest Breaking News from George Pell

Vatican City (AFP) - From his reforms to his foreign relations, criticism of Pope Francis has intensified since the death of his predecessor Benedict XVI, revealing a climate of "civil war" at a time when the Catholic Church is engaged in a global conversation about its future.

In the highlight reel of disgraces perpetrated by the late George Pell against victims of church sex abuse, the so-called Ellis legal defence must surely be the standout.

Sister Nathalie Becquart, the first woman to receive voting rights in the Synod of Bishops and considered a more modern Catholic, is currently on a tour of Australian dioceses.

Over two and a half hours, the full panoply of ritualistic church grandeur was deployed. There was no sign of chastened restraint, only defiance.

The government has an enormous agenda this year but the reaction to the treasurer’s ideas signals the obstacles it faces

A mass for Cardinal George Pell has taken place at Melbourne's St Patrick's Cathedral, a day after he was laid to rest in Sydney.

Cosmetic nurse’s finer biographical details glossed over by commercial media. Plus: ABC not granted camera access to George Pell’s funeral

The former prime minister’s speech exhibited traits that characterise his time in public life: obsequience to power and a strange, callous humour.

Former Liberal staffer Fiona Brown accuses ACT DPP Shane Drumgold of threatening her, and Anthony Albanese says a referendum on the Voice to Parliament will go ahead even if it risks failing.