Leadership coups have become an increasingly common feature of Australian politics, but the electoral results aren’t always encouraging, writes Rodney Tiffen.

The new prime minister Malcolm Turnbull brings with him a reputation for leveling with voters. Peter Brent asks how frank will he be now he has the top job.

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.

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.

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