Biden bows out on a wrong note
Joe Biden’s farewell speech summed up the failure of his presidency – it warned against ambition, it counselled against aspiration, it assumed that what divided Americans was greater than the optimism that united them.
Editorials
Ceasefire puts Trump back in Middle East driver’s seat
The Israel-Hamas hostage deal signals the arrival of president Donald Trump mark II. Hopefully, it will provide the conditions for a greater political realignment in the Middle East.
The long retreat from peak woke
The Australian business community is slow to get the message that the wheel is turning away from corporate displays of inclusion in fashionable but not mainstream trends.
Rail strike is a signpost to core productivity challenge
The industrial action defines Australia’s great economic challenge: how to expand the economy by improving productivity, especially in the change-resistant public sector.
Dreyfus must explain failings
It is probably wise not to expect too much of the secret so-called fence-mending visit to Israel by the cabinet’s most senior Jewish member.
Vote teal, get another politician
The reaction of teal MPs to the Prime Minister’s latest attempts at smearing the character of an opponent who is stronger than expected smacks of hypocrisy.
Getting things right with Trump a priority ambition
it is vital that Penny Wong and Kevin Rudd’s roles as Australia’s special envoys at the inauguration do not spoil what must be our main aim with the advent of the new administration in Washington.
Keeping record straight on China
Presenting different opinions on contentious issues is the normal state of affairs for a free press doing its job. China is entitled to put its case. But it also must be careful with the facts.
National day worthy of ceremony
Demands by some local councils for compensation from the federal government if they are forced to hold citizenship ceremonies on Australia Day is symptomatic of a deeper malaise.
NBN pledge takes future vision back to Rudd past
The NBN announcement sets a bad example for what voters can expect as the election date draws near.
The reality of power and China
Xi Jinping is setting an example on energy that can’t be ignored.
Walking small on inequality
The danger is that rather than celebrate the achievements of those who walk tall as an example to others, we will find ways to bring everyone down to size instead.
Albanese cannot escape reality of record on Israel
Anti-racism campaigns at university are no substitute for action now.
Dutton sets out his case for votes
Opposition Leader is proposing a return to Liberal orthodoxy.
ATO sending companies to wall
ATO actions compounding difficulties for small businesses.
Growing sense we live in dangerous times for world
Australia must create the capacity, and fast, to defend ourselves in a world where our geographic isolation no longer protects us from great powers.
Skills training work in progress
Skill shortages are a way bigger problem than fee-free TAFE can fix but the money it costs could be better spent on funding for trades training that will build homes.
Time to double down on Tehran
Without the success achieved by Israel in its defensive war against Hamas and Hezbollah, the consequent collapse of the Assad regime in Syria would not have occurred.
AUKUS power projection is language US understands
We must not get carried away thinking Donald Trump will respect Anthony Albanese’s position on climate change or be persuaded by our softer approach to China.
Trump play awake to realities
Donald Trump’s bluntness may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but at least, even before he re-enters the White House, he is showing the concern that’s needed over China and Russia’s relentless drive.
Original URL: https://www.theaustralian.com.au/commentary/editorials/page/3