National / Victoria

Alright, let’s talk about the Boxing Day Test, but not just about the cricket itself. As a political journalist who’s spent over 15 years dissecting policy and observing the ebb and flow of our political landscape, I see these kinds of situations as fascinating case studies in governance, consumer protection, and the sometimes-uneasy dance between major events and public trust. The Politics of a Postponed Test: Understanding the Refund Policy For those of you who, like me, managed to snag tickets for days 3 and 4 of the Boxing Day Test, Sunday might feel a little… empty. And beyond the personal disappointment, there’s a whole layer of policy and governance at play when a major event like this is disrupted. This isn’t just about missing a cricket match; it’s about understanding how our systems handle unexpected cancellations and what it means for consumers and organizers. ...

When Local Tragedy Demands National Policy Reflection It’s not often I begin a piece by reflecting on a single, heart-wrenching local news item. As a political journalist, my focus typically zeroes in on the machinations of parliament, the cut and thrust of elections, or the grand sweep of political trends shaping our region. But sometimes, a story cuts through the noise, a tragic reminder that at the core of all government policy and governance debates are individual lives. ...