Peter Dutton

Australia: Chinese spy ship hugging west coast amounts to 'aggressive act'

The ship "has been in close proximity to military and intelligence installations on the west coast of Australia", said the country's defence minister.

Solomon Islands clarifies it won't allow China military base amid backlash

China and the Solomon Islands have initialled a draft security agreement, sparking concerns among regional players such as Australia.

Australia says China's laser harassment is "intimidation"

Australian PM Morrison says China warship fired laser at its patrol plane is an act of "intimidation."

US, UK and Australia sign naval nuclear technology deal to counter China

China has described the deal as an "extremely irresponsible" threat to stability in the region.

Australia says it had 'grave concerns' as crisis over subs deal continues

Prime Minister Morrison says he understood the French government's "disappointment" but said he had raised issues with the deal "some months ago", as had other Australian government ministers.

Prominent figures join growing list of coronavirus cases

Ministers, actors and athletes are among those affected by the Covid-2019 pandemic. As governments struggle to contain the virus, global markets see their worst days in decades.

Australia proposes to ban militants' return for two years

The proposed law could also apply to Australians whom intelligence agencies assess to be a "risk to security for reasons related to politically motivated violence."

Australian media decry raids on national broadcaster ABC

Police raided the headquarters of public broadcaster ABC on Wednesday, the second high-profile raid on journalists in 24 hours in a sharp crackdown on sensitive leaks.

Australian elections drive Manus Island refugees to despair and suicide

Prime Minister Scott Morrison's re-election is likely to translate into tougher immigration laws and the repealing of 'Medevac' bill that would ensure seriously ill refugees are flown to mainland Australia for treatment.

Australian attempt to strip Daesh recruiter of citizenship hits snag

Australia planned to strip Melbourne-born Neil Prakash of his citizenship on the grounds he was a dual citizen with Fiji. Fiji says he's not. Prakash is currently on trial in Turkey over his work for the terrorist organisation.

Scott Morrison becomes Australia's 30th prime minister

The former treasurer in Malcolm Turnbull's government was sworn in as the country's prime minister after he defeated Peter Dutton in a vote to lead the Liberal Party.

Australian PM faces new leadership challenge from conservative rival

Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull clings to leadership despite nine Cabinet ministers voting against him, but he is expected to face a renewed leadership challenge from former Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton.