Liberal MP Craig Laundy’s call for the Abbott government to take more refugees from Syria has upset conservatives in his party, writes Robert Milliken.

Under pressure from popular opinion, politicians’ children and outspoken backbenchers, the government has announced an extra 12,000 places for refugees from Syria. This isn’t the first time Australia has responded in this way, and we can learn from experience.

Good news in economic growth figures is hidden by a downturn in mining, writes Tim Colebatch.

Judges take a risk when they step outside the courtroom to play the role of royal commissioner, writes Janet Ransley.

Nick Xenophon is breathing down the Coalition’s neck in his home state. In a tight federal election, the implications could be significant, writes Clem Macintyre.