YouTube video by Liberal Victoria

The article discusses a potential shift in the Liberal Party's stance on superannuation, suggesting that some members, including Liberal MP Garth Hamilton, are advocating for the party to abandon its long-standing opposition to compulsory superannuation. This comes as a political opportunity to outflank the Labor Party, which the author describes as having a 'lazy attitude' on the issue. The piece draws a comparison to John Howard's eventual acceptance of Medicare, though the author notes that the Coalition had multiple opportunities to undermine superannuation while in power, only to miss the chance to fully dismantle it. The article references Howard and Costello's 1996 decision to freeze compulsory super at 9% instead of maintaining the trajectory to 12% and then 15%, which cost workers significant retirement savings. The author also mentions that the Howard government enjoyed a generous defined benefit superannuation scheme for themselves while implementing policies that disadvantaged ordinary workers. The article concludes by suggesting that the current Liberal Party, now out of power for five terms, has a chance to reframe its position on superannuation as part of Australian life, rather than continuing its partisan hostility. This strategic shift could position the Liberals as pragmatic and forward-thinking, contrasting with Labor's perceived lack of engagement on the issue. The piece is framed as an opinion article, highlighting the political dynamics and historical context surrounding superannuation policy in Australia.

Lula won reelection, but Flávio Bolsonaro rejected the result and said he would seek its cancellation. His party recognized the outcome the next day.

The article examines Josh Frydenberg's memoir 'A Grateful Son' and its revelations about political truth and the Liberal Party's current challenges. Frydenberg, former treasurer, reveals in his book that Scott Morrison was ambitious for the prime ministership even while supporting Malcolm Turnbull. The memoir also critiques the Liberal Party's focus on regional seats at the expense of urban and younger voters, arguing that winning city votes is essential for electoral success. The author notes that memoirs by politicians have become common, often serving as strategic moves to test leadership support or maintain career options. Frydenberg's timing is strategic, as the Liberal Party faces leadership vacuum and internal crisis under Angus Taylor. The article draws parallels with UK Labour's experience when Keir Starmer blocked Andy Burnham's return to Parliament, which ultimately led to Labour losing a safe seat. The piece suggests that while Frydenberg's memoir may not directly lead to leadership, it could help the Liberals regain relevance by addressing their electoral strategy. The author emphasizes that political memoirs often reveal the 'macro-behavioural commonalities' of governing, showing how governments present a 'tidy' public image while behind the scenes decisions are made with 'manipulated timing, tactical omissions and faux unity'. The article concludes that the Liberal Party's survival depends on moving beyond its current regional focus and reconnecting with urban voters, a challenge that remains unresolved as the party struggles to find direction.

The article by Jack Waterford, former editor of The Canberra Times, examines Josh Frydenberg's potential return to political leadership within the Liberal Party, highlighting how his past actions and policies may impede his ambitions. Frydenberg, who served as Treasurer under Scott Morrison during the pandemic, faces significant challenges in re-entering politics. His loss of the seat in the 2022 election, attributed to Morrison's unpopularity and policies, is a key obstacle. The article details his controversial tenure, including allegations of improper ministerial interference in environmental prosecutions and lax oversight of pandemic business grants, which led to billions in unaccounted funds. Waterford also references Frydenberg's involvement in the 2003 leak of classified documents regarding Iraq intelligence, a case that remains unresolved. The piece notes that Frydenberg's moderate stance contrasts with the current Liberal Party's shift toward conservative extremes under Angus Taylor, making it difficult for him to appeal to both the party's right wing and the emerging teal independents. Additionally, his lack of alignment with Pauline Hanson's One Nation movement, which criticizes his political philosophy, further complicates his path. Waterford concludes that Frydenberg's past will likely overshadow his future, with his leadership ambitions hindered by unresolved controversies and the party's current direction. The article underscores the challenges of reconciling Frydenberg's record with the evolving political landscape, suggesting he may never fully overcome the legacy of his time in office.

The upcoming Victorian state election on November 28, 2026, represents a critical moment for the Liberal Party, with failure deemed psychologically damaging to their federal prospects. Senior Liberal figures acknowledge that a loss in Victoria would be an existential threat to their political standing, both at state and federal levels. Meanwhile, within the Labor Party, there appears to be a strategic hope that Premier Ben Carroll's government will not secure a fifth term, creating an opportunity to position themselves as the preferred alternative for voters ahead of the 2028 federal election. The article notes that while Labor publicly maintains a neutral stance, internal discussions reveal a 'fervent hope' that the current government will fail, potentially leading to a messy coalition with One Nation that could scare voters back to Labor. The political dynamics suggest a strategic calculation by Labor to allow a challenging state election outcome that would ultimately benefit their federal ambitions. The analysis highlights the interconnected nature of state and federal politics in Australia, where state election results can significantly influence national political strategies. The article also references the political editor Phillip Coorey, who has covered federal politics since 1998, adding credibility to the reporting. The piece is published in The Australian Financial Review, a reputable source for business and political analysis in Australia. The timing of the Victorian election, coming just months before the federal election, makes it a crucial test for both parties' strategies. The Liberal Party's need to win is clear, while Labor's apparent desire to lose is a strategic move to position themselves for the 2028 federal contest. This approach reflects a sophisticated understanding of how state-level politics can shape national electoral outcomes.

Raul Aguila Daza, a former Speaker Pro Tempore and longtime lawmaker from Northern Samar, has died at the age of 91. His family announced his passing on Thursday, stating he peacefully passed away. Daza served seven terms in the House of Representatives from 1969 to 2019 and three terms as governor of Northern Samar from 2001 to 2010. He also held positions as senior deputy speaker of the House, deputy minister of the Presidential Commission on Good Government, and commissioner of the Presidential Commission on Constitutional Reforms. A lawyer and certified public accountant, Daza graduated cum laude from the University of the Philippines College of Law and was the first Philippine-educated professional to pass both the California Bar and CPA examinations. He was a long-time member of the Liberal Party, serving as party president from 1994 to 1998 and later chairing the Council of Asian Liberals and Democrats. His family described him as a 'steadfast defender of democracy, justice and the rule of law' who stood by his convictions during martial law and political exile. As governor and representative, Daza contributed to Northern Samar's development, believing communities burdened by poverty could achieve greater opportunities. His wake will be held from October 17 to 19 at The Chapels at Heritage Park in Taguig City, followed by a tribute by the Liberal Party on October 18. His remains will be brought to Catarman, Northern Samar, for services from October 21 to 24, with a funeral Mass scheduled for October 24 at 1 p.m. at the Our Lady of Annunciation Cathedral. The family requested donations to the Foundation for the Diocese of Catarman instead of flowers.

Former Liberal deputy leader and federal treasurer Josh Frydenberg has stated he will continue to speak out on the need for stronger economic reform, including raising the goods and services tax (GST), despite his proposal being rejected by Liberal leader Angus Taylor. Speaking to The Conversation's politics podcast to promote his new memoir 'A Grateful Son', Frydenberg acknowledged the challenges of a potential political comeback but expressed confidence in his vision for the Liberal Party's revival. He confirmed he is still deciding whether to contest his former seat of Kooyong, lost to teal independent Monique Ryan in 2022, with his decision expected next year. Frydenberg emphasized the need for 'honest conversations' about economic policy, arguing that leaders have long prioritized reassurance over honesty in economic debates. He defended his proposal to raise GST and reduce income taxes, stating that serious economists support such a debate. Frydenberg also cautioned the Liberal Party against 'chasing' One Nation to the right, advocating instead for the party to maintain its position as a 'broad church' that accommodates both conservative and small-l liberal values. He acknowledged the difficulty of a political comeback, noting it would require significant personal sacrifice but would offer substantial rewards for Australia's future. The timing of his book's release coincides with government pressure over measures affecting small businesses, with the government reportedly seizing on the book's content to bolster its position. Frydenberg's mother has joked about sending Monique Ryan a thank you note for creating the opportunity for him to step away from politics for the past four years.

The Australian Financial Review reports that the Liberal Party holds a significant lead in the Victorian state election polls, with more than half of voters intending to support either the Coalition or One Nation in the upcoming November 28 election. The article, based on a recent poll conducted by The Australian Financial Review/Redbridge Group/Accent Research, indicates a strong appetite for change among Victorian voters. The Coalition, led by Premier Daniel Andrews, faces the challenge of securing a mandate to address Victoria's financial challenges, including deeper budget cuts that will be necessary to repair the state's finances. The AFR View column by Jess Wilson highlights that the Coalition must be transparent with Victorians about the budgetary measures required and seek the necessary election mandate to properly address the state's fiscal situation. The article emphasizes the importance of the upcoming election as a critical juncture for Victoria's political and economic future, with the Liberal Party's current lead suggesting a potential shift in voter sentiment. The piece also notes that the Coalition will need to balance the need for fiscal responsibility with maintaining public support, particularly as the state grapples with ongoing budgetary pressures. The report underscores the significance of the November election in determining the direction of Victorian governance and economic policy for the coming years.

Senator Kiko Pangilinan and the Liberal Party (LP) have defended Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo following her meeting with Israeli Ambassador Dana Kursh during his courtesy visit to the Bicol region on October 5, 2026. Pangilinan emphasized that public officials have diplomatic responsibilities and that receiving a foreign envoy does not equate to endorsing military actions or atrocities. 'Fulfilling diplomatic responsibilities doesn't mean supporting the atrocities being committed,' he stated in a Saturday statement. The LP echoed this sentiment, noting that there was no evidence Mayor Robredo expressed support for Israel's military operations in Gaza by meeting with the ambassador. They stressed that diplomatic engagement is distinct from endorsing a government's policies. The party also highlighted the importance of being fair and truthful when discussing human rights issues, urging the public to be careful in their judgments. Robredo, a former vice president, welcomed Kursh at Naga City Hall as part of the ambassador's regional visit. The LP reiterated their stance on human rights, civilian safety, and accountability for violations of international law, including the rights of Palestinians to security, dignity, and self-determination. The Philippines has consistently supported a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasizing solidarity with Palestine in achieving peace and prosperity. The country's position remains firm that genuine and enduring peace in the Middle East requires an independent and viable Palestinian state. This meeting occurred amid heightened tensions in Gaza, with Israel stepping up its military offensive on the 2026 anniversary of the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, which prompted Israel's military response. Hamas also claimed responsibility for missile strikes on Tel Aviv, causing minor injuries. The LP's defense of Robredo underscores the party's commitment to diplomatic engagement while maintaining clear human rights principles.

Flávio Bolsonaro secured over 47% of the vote in the first round, edging out incumbent Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The second round is scheduled for October 25.

In the final weeks of the 2025 federal election campaign, I was asked by a senior Liberal Party official to meet two men described to me as small business people who wanted to assist local federal cam...

Former federal minister De-Anne Kelly has been revealed as a co-founder of offshore casino LuckyBet.

Rinehart allegedly tried to help recruit Liberal MP to join One Nation: One Nation's billionaire backer Gina Rinehart allegedly attempted to help recruit a sitting federal Liberal MP at one of her holiday homes. #GinaRinehart #OneNation #LiberalParty #PoliticsAustralia #FederalElection