Explainers
EXPLAINER
The gaping hole in Australia’s gun laws explained
To get a gun licence in Australia, an applicant must have a “genuine reason” to use a gun. You can’t just have a gun because you want one -- firearm ownership is a privilege in Australia, not the sort of right that United States gun owners never tire of talking about.
EXPLAINER
Make polluters pay: Why Australia needs a climate disaster levy
Whether we realise it or not, everyday Australians are already paying for the damage fossil fuel companies are causing to our climate through more frequent and extreme fires, floods, heatwaves and other disasters.
EXPLAINER
What to expect from the Farrer by-election
One month ago, Sussan Ley was the leader of the Liberal Party. Two weeks later, she retired from Parliament altogether after losing the leadership to Angus Taylor. And now, Speaker of the House Milton Dick has announced the date for the by-election to replace her: Saturday the 9th of May
EXPLAINER
3 reasons to be glad the Government's FOI changes have been scrapped
Today, the Albanese Government pulled its “friendless” Freedom of Information Amendment Bill.
EXPLAINER
Even leftover gas is exported: there's never been a gas shortage in Australia
The Australian Government lets foreign owned gas companies export vast amounts of gas above and beyond what they need to fulfil their export contracts, while leaving Australians short.
EXPLAINER
In one month, South Australian voters will deliver an electoral reality check
Looking for a break from federal politics? The South Australian election will take place on 21 March this year, and will be a proving ground for national political trends like the rise of One Nation and experiments with political donation laws.
EXPLAINER
Why Australia taxes beer more effectively than its gas exports
Far from fixing the problem of low PRRT revenues, PRRT revenue is expected to fall further over coming years, while beer excise just keeps on rising.
EXPLAINER
How to make a submission to a parliamentary inquiry
Making a submission to a parliamentary inquiry is much more straightforward that you may think and is a great way to participate in our democracy. Here is a handy guide of what you need to know to make a public submission and tips on how you can make your submission more effective.
EXPLAINER
Why Australia needs more politicians (yes, you read that correctly)
Although politicians are not popular, there are good reasons to want more of them. The Australian population has grown by 11 million since the last increase in the number of politicians, leaving local members stretched thin.
EXPLAINER
The core case for gas plummets into a screaming death spiral - Part 2
In Q4 2024, the average wholesale earnings [RC5] of batteries discharging was higher than gas. In Q4 2025, that has flipped.
