Australia news LIVE: One Nation's popularity surge challenges Coalition dominance; AUKUS submarine progress hinted at by US naval strategy shift
Coles faces legal scrutiny over misleading discount claims
Coles is set to face the Federal Court this week, accused of misleading shoppers with 'illusory' discounts on household goods. The competition watchdog and Coles are locked in a legal battle over pricing promotions, with the case potentially resulting in hefty fines for the supermarket giant. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) alleges that Coles and its rival, Woolworths, misled consumers with pricing promotions that were either higher or the same as the regular price.
The ACCC's allegations have sparked a high-profile case, serving as a crucial test for industry practices. The court will examine whether the promotions on hundreds of products were genuine or misleading, which could significantly impact the supermarket's future.
Hume calls for government economic focus
Liberal deputy Jane Hume criticizes Treasurer Jim Chalmers for releasing hypothetical budget figures based on a hypothetical election outcome. Hume argues that the government should concentrate on its economic management, highlighting issues like inflation, debt, and government spending. She suggests that Chalmers should address these matters instead of focusing on irrelevant hypothetical scenarios.
Sharma pledges lower taxes for the Liberals
Liberal senator Dave Sharma emphasizes the party's priority to develop a comprehensive economic policy, including tax and productivity measures. He vows to make the Liberals the party of lower taxes, economic growth, and support for small businesses and families. High government spending and inflation have been central to the Liberal attacks on Labor's economic management.
Taylor avoids committing to releasing election review
Opposition Leader Angus Taylor refuses to commit to releasing an internal election review into the Coalition's 2025 wipeout. Former leader Sussan Ley had promised transparency, but Taylor deflects, citing it as a matter for the party organization. The review warns against leaders running their campaigns as Peter Dutton did, and its delay has sparked further controversy.
Clare dodges questions on student debt cuts
Education Minister Jason Clare avoids confirming whether the government will cut student debt further in the May budget. He acknowledges the government's understanding of students' struggles with living costs and promises to consider recommendations, but remains tight-lipped about specific changes.
Hume on Ley's defeat and women leadership
Jane Hume dismisses suggestions that Sussan Ley's defeat would hinder future women leaders. She argues that focusing on gender is an insult to Ley and emphasizes the need for a reset in the party's approach due to an existential crisis. Hume aims to attract disgruntled Australians to the Liberal Party.
Chalmers defends migration management
Treasurer Jim Chalmers refutes Liberal criticism of the government's migration management. He highlights a 45% decrease in net overseas migration over seven quarters, attributing it to a methodical approach. Chalmers challenges the Liberals' motives, suggesting they are using migration as a political issue to gain votes from One Nation.
IMF report endorses government's economic plan
The International Monetary Fund's report on Australia's economy is praised by Chalmers as a 'stunning endorsement' of the government's economic plan. The report urges tax reforms, including GST increases and capital gains tax overhauls, to boost economic growth and productivity. Chalmers emphasizes the government's focus on sustainable budgeting and intergenerational housing issues.
Chalmers criticizes Taylor's economic record
Chalmers criticizes Angus Taylor for his time as shadow treasurer, labeling it a failure. He highlights Taylor's role in advocating for higher taxes, deficits, and debt, questioning his credibility. Chalmers argues that Taylor's letter to the Prime Minister is a mere political maneuver, emphasizing the need for a different approach to budget management.
