The federal government is so anxious to avoid debt that it’s endangering its main priorities, writes Brian Toohey on our partner site, INSIDE STORY.

THERE are three great recurring themes in Australian defence policy. One is the fear of a threat from Asia. Another is a fear of change. The third is expressed in the belief that “it’s better to fight them up there than down here.” All three have come together with renewed vigour in the Rudd government’s...

IMAGINE THE OUTCRY if Fair Work Australia decided that the minimum wage had to be increased so every family could afford a huge $4000 fridge, the latest wide screen TV, extensive travel and a flutter on the pokies. Business would condemn the Rudd government’s new industrial relations body as a throwback to the bad old...