Anthony Albanese has entered his second term in office with absolute authority. But there is a danger in being regarded as unassailable.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (centre) has entered his second term in office with his authority and that of his government absolute. Dominic Lorrimer
Before question time on Thursday, the House of Representatives paused to remember National Party icon Peter Nixon, who died in May.
Typically, the prime minister, opposition leader and Nationals leader would each deliver a short condolence speech. But given the status of Nixon – a party giant who served from 1961 to 1983 – Darren Chester, the Nationals MP who holds Dixon’s old seat of Gippsland, was also allowed to speak.
Phillip CooreyPolitical editorPhillip Coorey is the political editor based in Canberra. He is a two-time winner of the Paul Lyneham award for press gallery excellence. Connect with Phillip on Facebook and Twitter. Email Phillip at pcoorey@afr.com
