The Latest Breaking News from Scott Morrison

MORNING BRIEFING: There are fears more rain in already saturated catchments could add to the woes of NSW communities already reeling from major floods.

Few of Australia’s relationships with countries in Asia have progressed so far and so fast as its ties with India. Over a decade, Canberra and New Delhi have constructed a broad strategic partnership, catalysed by shared concerns about China.

Most commentators on the coming federal election probably see a hung parliament and a minority government as one possible outcome. There is already a crossbench of seven, with five independents plus Liberal defector Craig Kelly for the United Australia Party and Greens leader Adam Bandt.

The Morrison government tolerates dodgy carbon offsets because they keep the price of credits down, helping to hide the real cost of climate action.

Tuesday night's federal budget is expected to include a cut to the fuel excise as well as assistance for more first home buyers.

Many financially disadvantaged Australians and those with chronic conditions face difficulty meeting healthcare costs, a survey of 5000 adults shows.

Largest new spending is $3.1bn for Melbourne Intermodal Terminal with package also allocating $140m for a regional road safety program

Nestled in the shadows of the Gabba, East Brisbane state school is at risk of being swallowed up by development plans for the 2032 Games

Scott Morrison finally got his way at the weekend when the Liberal federal executive agreed to candidates for several key NSW seats being picked by a three-person committee rather than the rank and file having their say.

An order cancelling democratic votes for Liberal party candidates in favour of having them picked by Mr Morrison and other party bosses has caused uproar.

Coalition extends apprenticeship wage subsidy ahead of Tuesday night’s budget, which is expected to offer financial assistance to households