The man who once ran media for the Immigration Department says Coalition governments are increasingly imposing regimes of silence over their departments.
Under a scheme floated by government MPs, journalists would have to allow the government to censor their work if they were to avoid being raided and prosecuted for leaked material.
What drives Mike Pezzullo — and how has he earned the title of Australia’s most powerful public servant?
Good morning, early birds. Embattled union boss John Setka is pushing back amid warnings he will be sacked unless he resigns, and Home Affairs secretary Mike Pezzullo is counselled for his "inappropriate" and "intimidating" post-raid phone call. It's the news you need to know, with Rachel Withers.
In Australia, government is used by vested interests to protect themselves. That applies as much to the security establishment as to corporate or political interests.
Good morning, early birds. Crossbench senators are concerned that the government's tax savings will be wiped out by rising energy costs, there are more calls for union boss John Setka to resign, and today Crikey launches its inquiry journalism initiative. It’s the news you need to know, with Rachel Withers.
The raid on a News Corp journalist exposes how police can target journalistic sources with impunity — and how "national security" is simply a tool to protect the powerful from scrutiny.
Good morning, early birds. Chinese officials reportedly targeted Australian residents over a secret investigation into Chinese influence in Australia, and the Coalition and Labor each enjoy a bump in the polls. It's the news you need to know, with Chris Woods.
Behind the Department of Home Affairs' shadowy facade is a shambolic bureaucracy which refuses to learn from its past scandals.
According to tipsters, things are grim indeed at Mike Pezzullo's Home Affairs, where wearing polka dots or meeting with friends might get you a citation.
