Victoria's premier Jacinta Allan in the spotlight as leadership and policy debates ripple through state politics. Born 1973, Labor MP for Bendigo West, premier since 2023.
Australia is experiencing fuel shortages and rising prices due to the conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. The government has announced measures including halving fuel excise taxes and releasing reserves to support supply, but concerns about inflation and long-term impacts persist.
Australia's states and federal government are implementing temporary free public transport measures to counter rising fuel prices caused by the Iran war. Victoria and Tasmania are providing free travel until July, while other states focus on different cost-of-living relief strategies. The measures aim to ease household financial pressures.
A fire at Viva Energy's Geelong refinery has been brought under control after burning for over 13 hours. The incident impacts Australia's fuel supply, which is already strained due to global conflicts and declining domestic capacity. Authorities are working to assess damage and secure alternative supplies.
On April 25, Australians and New Zealanders have been observing ANZAC Day, marking the Gallipoli landings of 1915. The ceremonies have included wreath-laying and speeches, but recent events have seen disruptions and debates over military accountability, especially following the arrest of Ben Roberts-Smith over war crimes allegations. The day also reflects on historical alliances and ongoing questions about military conduct.
Indigenous protocols are being defended by leaders who label Welcome to Country as a long-standing cultural practice, while disruptions at Anzac Day dawn services in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth are condemned by veterans and politicians. Opposition figures suggest the ceremony is overused, triggering debates about national identity. The events are shaping by-election discourse in NSW’s Farrer seat.