Politics
Federal
Opinion
Political leadership
It’s not the crisis the PM wants, but it’s the opportunity he needs
Fuel price hikes and shortages have created a sense of emergency. But that’s not the only reason Anthony Albanese should seize this moment to drive reform.
- by Peter Hartcher
Latest
Higher interest rates, higher inflation and higher petrol prices: Jim Chalmers’ nightmare scenario is here
Australians started Googling the word “recession” after Michele Bullock used the term this week. People may have to find another word if the economy sours.
- by Shane Wright
Warning to Australia: Work from home, avoid air travel and cut speed limits to guard against oil shock
As the Albanese government avoids alarm, the International Energy Agency issued a global plea for countries to take some drastic actions on Friday.
- by Paul Sakkal
Analysis
Middle East at war
Donald Trump’s war is not just against Iran. It’s against oil, and it’s creating one giant carbon tax
The global energy watchdog’s recommendations for lowering oil use will give anyone who remembers the loo paper rolls war of the pandemic a nasty dose of PTSD.
- by Shane Wright
The latest illustrations from artist Simon Letch
Gallery of illustrations by the Sydney Morning Herald artist.
The South Australian Liberals aren’t just staring down defeat. They’re facing a wipeout
The Liberals’ result at Saturday’s state election could reshape conservative politics nationally and test the electoral ceiling of One Nation.
- by Rob Harris
Opinion
Political leadership
Chalmers must not use the Iran war to squib tough decisions
The treasurer is correct to prepare Australians for what could be a difficult couple of years. But these headwinds can’t be the excuse for policy inertia.
- by James Massola
Exclusive
GST
NSW warns GST system is ‘broken’, wants WA’s sweetheart deal watered down
NSW Treasurer Daniel Mookhey says the GST system is irreparably broken – and it has to be fixed or the entire federation is at stake.
- by Shane Wright
Best of cartoons, March 20, 2026
The news of the day as interpreted by our talented artists, illustrators and cartoonists.
Australians told to prepare for more petrol pain as war stretches on
Business chiefs are raising worries about a supply shock if the war drags on, leading a top economist to recommend work-from-home directives to reduce demand for oil.
- by Paul Sakkal and Nick Newling
Analysis
Political leadership
The PM is under the pump. This could be as big a political test as COVID
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is facing a test of his government’s capacity. Business figures say Australians need to know “how real this could get”.
- by Paul Sakkal