Finn McHugh

3 days ago | capitalbrief.com | Finn McHugh

But the Opposition Leader conceded the election defeat demonstrated the party’s troubles “go deeper”, with McGrath to lead a longer-term review into how the party can “better respect, reflect and represent modern Australia”. That will include a look at how the party’s divisions operate and ways to grow party membership, Ley said. After thumping defeats in 2022 and 2025, the Coalition has been criticised for a lack of female representation and discussions over gender quotas were revived.

4 days ago | capitalbrief.com | Anthony Galloway |Finn McHugh

Anthony Albanese once thundered against “pre-emptive” military action by the United States, denouncing John Howard for joining the 2003 invasion of Iraq. “Unilateralism can never be the basis of a satisfactory world model,” the then-third-term MP declared on the eve of the invasion. “And pre-emptive action should not involve the use of military power.”Get Political Capital in your inboxSigned up to Political CapitalA twice-weekly newsletter that takes you inside the corridors of power.

4 days ago | capitalbrief.com | Finn McHugh

Neither Iran nor Israel have publicly confirmed the agreement, though Tehran’s response appeared designed to de-escalate the conflict. Albanese welcomed the ceasefire announcement on Tuesday morning. “We have consistently called for dialogue, diplomacy and de-escalation. The safety of Australians in the region is our priority,” he said in a statement.

5 days ago | capitalbrief.com | Finn McHugh

Wong did not directly answer whether the strikes were illegal under international law, instead repeating her support for the US actions and adding only that the “key question … is what happens next”. Wong’s comments were stronger language used in a statement on Sunday, in which the and “noted” US President Donald Trump’s call for peace. The statement was attributed to a government spokesperson, not to Wong or Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

6 days ago | capitalbrief.com | Finn McHugh

US President Donald Trump says he has obliterated Iran's nuclear capabilities, but experts believe the picture is murkier - and more dangerous. International security experts have expressed concerns that the United States' attack on Iran could spiral into a conflict engulfing the Middle East, as signs of a split between the Albanese government and federal opposition emerged over how Australia should approach the unfolding situation.