That’s a wrap for Need to Know this Wednesday, August 17.

Many thanks for reading along, here are today’s key events:

Scott Morrison addresses his ghost ministries

Former prime minister Scott Morrison told reporters he did not take over any ministerial portfolios and was not co-administering any departments, apart from his intervention in the PEP 11 gas exploration licence.

He also said he would not resign from parliament and would remain a backbencher for the time being, labelling his actions to secretly take on five ministerial responsibilities as a “prudent, responsible action” in the middle of a crisis.

Soon after, Anthony Albanese said it was not possible to take Scott Morrison at face value over the secret ministerial roles he held while prime minister. “Quite clearly, given the fact that Mr Morrison wasn’t even transparent yesterday morning on 2GB, then I don’t think it’s possible to take what he has said at face value.”

Other key stories

Perrottet announces buyback scheme for victims of $3b flood: NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet has announced a buyback and land swap scheme for some disaster-ravaged areas following an inquiry into deadly flooding in February and March.

Chalmers sets ground rules for jobs and skills summit: The government will confine the gathering to the priority economic challenges, to stop it becoming a talkfest that doesn’t achieve anything.

Deliveroo overturns ruling rider an employee: Fair Work’s senior members said a High Court precedent meant they must “close our eyes” to the gig work reality that indicates an employment relationship.

Cheney loses Republican primary in Trump victory: Liz Cheney, the Republican who has spearheaded investigations into Donald Trump’s role in the US Capitol uprising, has lost her congressional primary race.

Santos CEO slams gas ‘threats’ of Morrison government: Santos chief executive Kevin Gallagher has taken aim at the previous federal government’s “chest-beating” and “threats” over domestic gas.