The Latest Breaking News from Labor

Former competition watchdog also calls for five-year budget guarantees, as pledged by Labor, and stronger ABC governance

Voters in the seat of Eden-Monaro are asking what is taking the Liberal Party so long to announce a candidate for the federal election due in the first three weeks of May.

A Labor government would drive fibre deeper into regional areas, giving millions more homes and businesses internet speeds of up to 100mbps.

The life and legacy of late Labor senator Kimberley Kitching is remembered by politicians across the divide in a special parliamentary tribute, with tearful colleagues describing her as a friend, patriot and warrior.

The housing industry has welcomed the federal government's announcement of an extension and broadening of its home guarantee scheme.

Labor MP Andrew Leigh has been granted a personal protection order and says the nature of debate in the political environment is changing.

Most commentators on the coming federal election probably see a hung parliament and a minority government as one possible outcome. There is already a crossbench of seven, with five independents plus Liberal defector Craig Kelly for the United Australia Party and Greens leader Adam Bandt.

The late Kimberley Kitching is being farewelled by parliamentary colleagues in a special sitting of the Senate on Monday.

Largest new spending is $3.1bn for Melbourne Intermodal Terminal with package also allocating $140m for a regional road safety program