April
Albanese tries (and fails) to not sound overconfident
Peter Dutton’s campaign is in deep trouble as the Coalition loses its mojo and the federal government’s confidence surges.
Nations try ‘banding together’ in new global trade era
Officials around the world are dashing to diversify their economies. But the fight between the US and China casts a long shadow.
December
2024 broke a 120-year election record that is terrible news for Labor
The billions who voted in 2024 sent an angry message to incumbent governments and warmed to populists, particularly on the right.
December 2024
Prabowo’s first overseas visit was a shambles
The Indonesian president was so charmed by Xi Jinping that he agreed to a Chinese draft of a joint statement that gave away his nation’s longstanding positions.
November 2024
‘Ignorant’: Former spy boss hits Liberals over Bali Nine criticism
Dennis Richardson says the AFP’s controversial role in the arrest of the Bali Nine needs to be considered.
Dealing under way to bring Bali Nine back to Australia
But the Australians convicted in Indonesia of smuggling heroin would have to serve their sentences at home, the government says.
Did you miss the Indonesian president’s November surprise?
While Australians were absorbed by the US election, the new leader of their large neighbour was busy strengthening ties with Russia and China.
How to Trump-proof foreign policy
Don’t panic, don’t relax, look for opportunities, and stay close to our other allies. That’s a way to deal with a confronting new Washington.
‘America’s loss is Australia’s gain’ if Trump cuts green energy scheme
Any move by Donald Trump to curb the Inflation Reduction Act could drive investment to Australia, says Anthony Albanese.
Prabowo pledges co-operation with Trump
Washington sees Indonesia, the most populous country in South-East Asia, as an important partner in a region where its rival Beijing has deep trade and investment ties.
China, Indonesia strengthen ties as they brace for Trump
President Prabowo Subianto strikes deals with China before heading off to the US, as he tries to play a neutral role between the superpowers.
October 2024
How Indonesia’s transformative leader tarnished his legacy
Many believe Joko Widodo has tried to bend the laws to install a political dynasty, undercutting the very democracy that let him become president.
Ex-general Prabowo sworn in as Indonesian president
The ceremony marked a remarkable comeback for a man who once faced Western-imposed sanctions and had two failed election bids against the man he is replacing.
What Indonesia’s new president has to do to promote economic growth
With the right policies, there is ample opportunity for Prabowo Subianto to build a stronger, more inclusive economy.
August 2024
Government hasn’t matched Keating’s Indonesia pact
The new defence agreement with Jakarta is a welcome development, but the government claims too much too soon about its place in history.
Our new quiet security embrace as Jakarta hedges bets
Indonesia’s strategic wariness of China has culminated in this week’s military co-operation agreement with Australia. But don’t read too much into it.
Albanese seals new defence pact with Indonesia’s Prabowo
Australia will lock in deeper military ties with Indonesia amid rising regional tensions with China.
Albanese reaches out early to Indonesia’s new president
Prabowo Subianto has been touring key regional capitals ahead of his elevation in October to Jakarta’s top job.
June 2024
All change as Prabowo prepares for the top job
Economic nationalism has been a constant in Indonesia and the incoming President has some firm views on the topic.
May 2024
Forget defence, agriculture is key to Prabowo’s Indonesia
Indonesia is obsessed with food self-sufficiency, and free lunches for children was a key election promise from the new president. Australia can help him with both.