Coalition Crisis Over Hate Speech Bill Sparks Nationals Walkout
Coalition Crisis: Nationals Quit Over Hate Speech Laws

Coalition Turmoil as Nationals Frontbench Resigns Over Hate Speech Bill

In a dramatic political development, the Australian Coalition has been plunged into crisis following the mass resignation of the Nationals frontbench. This unprecedented walkout occurred on Wednesday night after opposition frontbenchers crossed the floor to vote against Labor's proposed hate speech legislation. Sussan Ley, the opposition leader, accepted the resignations, highlighting deep divisions within the Coalition that threaten its future stability.

Generational Wealth Shift: Gen X Overtakes Baby Boomers

New analysis from KPMG, based on ABS and census data, reveals a significant shift in property wealth across generations. Gen X households, once labelled the "slacker generation," now average $1.455 million in wealth from dwellings and land, surpassing baby boomers. This change reflects a broader trend as older generations downsize their homes and move assets into cash and retirement accounts, effectively passing the baton of property riches.

Global Updates: Trump's Greenland Framework and International Affairs

On the international stage, Donald Trump announced the formation of a "framework" for a deal involving Greenland after meeting with NATO's secretary general, Mark Rutte. This move comes as Trump called off tariffs on Europe, leading to a market rebound. In other news, the Gaza crisis continues with recent violence undermining a ceasefire, and Syrian forces have taken control of al-Hawl detention camp following Kurdish withdrawals.

Additional Highlights from Australia and Beyond

In Australia, a national day of mourning is being observed for victims of the Bondi beach terror attack, with acts of kindness in the Jewish tradition of mitzvah. Environmental concerns are rising in Sydney, where up to 12,000 food businesses may be illegally discharging fats into sewage systems, contributing to problematic fatbergs. Meanwhile, in sports, Carlos Alcaraz advances at the Australian Open, and in media, Prince Harry has made allegations against the Daily Mail's publisher.

This series of events underscores a week of significant political, economic, and social developments, with ongoing implications for both domestic and global landscapes.