Accused Dog

Criticism of budget funding comes amid warnings the Australian National Audit Office will struggle to meet its targets for independent reviewsGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastLabor has been accused inadequately funding one of the central institutions safeguarding public administration, with transparency advocates and independent David Pocock criticising commitments for the Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) in this week’s budget.Parliament’s Joint Committee of Public Accounts and Audit has previously warned the Albanese government that the auditor general’s financial position is unsustainable and of “serious concern” – even as the number of government agencies and functions subject to oversight expands significantly. Continue reading...

Prime minister claims Coalition imitating One Nation’s policies as refugee advocacy group warns migrants ‘should not be used as scapegoats’ for economic problemsFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastAnthony Albanese has accused Angus Taylor of copying One Nation and “dog-whistling” to marginalise immigrants to Australia, as the Coalition seeks to cut social benefits and government programs for permanent residents.Delivering his budget reply speech on Thursday night, the opposition leader announced plans to slash immigration and restrict welfare programs to citizens only. This would cut access to the national disability insurance scheme, jobseeker and other safety nets from permanent residents who could be living in Australia and paying tax for years. Continue reading...