Cardinal Pell to head new Vatican finances department
Cath News
Cardinal George Pell has been appointed by Pope Francis to head a new Vatican department that will supervise the Holy See's economic affairs, reports the ABC.
Manus Island asylum seeker death, injuries demand rethink of detainee policy
Susan Metaclife, The Sydney Morning Herald
Reports about the death and severe injuries inflicted on asylum seekers at the Manus Island detention centre are truly grotesque. But, for those who closely followed the Coalition's past offshore regime, there can be no surprises.
Denial to celebration: political responses to class in Australia
Geoffrey Robinson, The Conversation
Federal health minister Peter Dutton’s recent comments on health care symbolise an emerging shift in Australian politics.
Coalition resists equal pay claim
Ewin Hannan and Patricia Karvelas, The Australian
THE Abbott government has moved to limit pay rises being sought by childcare workers, warning the granting of their unions' equal pay claim could flow to industries unable to afford wage increases significantly above the award rate.
Risk Management Key to Successful Volunteer Program
ProBono News
The Federal Government’s plans to expand the work-for-the-dole scheme promises plenty of debate about volunteer rights and responsibilities. It’s timely to remember that investing in volunteers is not just about funding, but best practice, writes Ansvar Acting CEO Deirdre Blythe.
'We are viable': Farming the Southern Cross
The Land, Collin Bettles
SOUTHERN Cross farmer Clint Della Bosca has a message for those who suggest producers hit by recurring drought should pack it in: “We are viable – we just need genuine support,” he says.
Amnesty International says Australia's refugee stance hurts its reputation
Helen Davidson, The Guardian
Amnesty says failure to accept more refugees from Syria and other conflicts compares badly with that of other countries.