The Latest Breaking News from Mick Tsikas

Minister says legislation will go before parliament next year and confirms bid to protect 30% of land by 2030 as she launches state of the environment report

Parts of Sydney in Australia have been submerged as a storm front dumped 30 inches of rain in three days causing severe flooding as residents are warned to prepare for evacuation

Public concern over climate change was a clear factor in the election of Australia’s new Labor government. Incoming Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has committed to action on the issue, declaring on Saturday night: “Together we can take advantage of the opportunity for Australia to be a renewable energy superpower”.

In the first week of the campaign, we journeyed around the country with six politics experts to examine the key seats and issues affecting different parts of the Australia.

Whether a bill becomes law can sometimes come down to a single independent or party. It's called having the balance of power.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison says one of his “great missions” is to make social media a safer place for young people.

Anthony Albanese wins the third leaders' debate which saw he and Scott Morrison cover well-trodden issues, but also the Prime Minister confirm Alan Tudge will return to the frontbench if the Coalition is re-elected.

Read the full responses from independent candidates and crossbench MPs surveyed

Coalition and Labor have so far pledged billions for local projects. But not all sides of the electoral fence are reaping the benefits