Duane Groth argues the Bureau of Meteorology’s new website oversimplifies data, creating dangerous risks. He highlights issues with rainfall reporting, temperature minimums, and inaccurate UV forecasts, fearing a repeat of past disasters like Grantham.
Opinion
Posted inNational, Social, Something to Think About
Opinion: New research shows Australians support buying local for different reasons – and not all will pay more
As the “Australian Made” logo turns 40, new research reveals a divide in why we buy local. While older generations prioritize the economy and jobs, younger shoppers are driven by ethics and the environment – and are surprisingly more willing to pay a premium.
Posted inOpinion, Political, Social
Opinion: We either believe in Human Rights for all or we don’t
Annabel Doherty from Armidale writes: An act of terrorism occurred on Noongar Country in Boorloo on 26 January 2026. The people targeted were supporting a First Nations Invasion Day event.
Posted inOpinion, Political, Regulars, Social
Opinion: Ableism is the ism we refuse to see
RK Crosby says the ableism hides in plain sight, including in the NDIS.
Posted inIdeas, Opinion, Something to Think About
Would you use AI to break writer’s block? We asked 5 experts
Bloomsbury CEO Nigel Newton suggests AI can help authors beat writer’s block. Five creative writing experts weigh in, offering perspectives ranging from ethical concerns to accessibility benefits, highlighting the complex debate on AI in literature.
Posted inPolitical, Something to Think About
A major overhaul of NZ’s local government is underway – will it really fix what’s broken?
New Zealand’s “Simplifying Local Government” proposal aims to abolish regional councils for efficiency. However, the plan risks reducing democratic representation, eliminating Māori constituencies, and failing to fix underlying funding issues.
Posted inPolitical
Australia needs to get real about Trump’s changing America
Mark Carney’s Davos speech warns American leadership is no longer a reliable anchor for the US-Australia alliance. Australia must now move beyond comforting myths, hedge with regional partners, and invest in independent capabilities to ensure security.
Posted inPolitical
Opinion: Nationals can now really represent bush
Mal Peters argues the Nationals split is a welcome move, freeing them from the Liberal “handbrake” to truly represent the bush. He backs David Littleproud to lead a strong opposition while criticizing Barnaby Joyce’s superficial politics.
Posted inNational
Opinion: It’s the shared bonds that are our nation’s greatest strength
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese writes that Australia Day is a chance to celebrate the shared bonds and “fair go” spirit that unite the nation, while marking the 125th anniversary of Federation.
Posted inPolitical
Opinion: Is it too late for the National Party?
Annabel Doherty from Armidale argues the National Party should have split from the Liberals earlier to stop the drift to One Nation. She questions if it is now too late for their survival or if they will bank on a One Nation implosion.