Opposition Leader Tony Abbott's motion of no confidence in Prime Minister Julia Gillard has failed, after the vote fell short of the overall majority required.
Former state Labor MP Ernie Bridge is suing the state government and companies owned by two of Australia's richest women after being diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases.
Key portfolios including mines and petroleum, energy, training, environment, commerce and small business have new ministers after re-elected premier Colin Barnett announced the appointment of five
The parliamentary career of veteran Greens MP Giz Watson has been brought to an end.Ms Watson failed in her bid for election to the upper house from the South West region.
The twin villains of Australian businesses in recent years - the high dollar and increased household savings - have saved the economy from overheating and spared consumers from outsized price hikes
There will be recounts in two tight West Australian electorates, after the WA Electoral Commission declared Labor winners in both seats but by less than a hundred votes.
Former police minister Rob Johnson has put up his hand for the job of speaker in the new parliament, saying he was previously endorsed for the role by Premier Colin Barnett.
Premier Colin Barnett has reacted angrily to a likely cut in the state's share of GST revenue, describing it as the "flashpoint" in relations with the federal government.
A Reserve Bank of Australia official says the large surge in employment growth in February will not, by itself, have an impact on the interest rate outlook.
Australia has posted its strongest monthly employment growth in 13 years, confounding expectations as the unemployment rate held steady for a third straight month.
The federal government is likely to produce a budget deficit of about $20 billion this financial year on the back of declining company tax revenues, according to new analysis.
Woodside Petroleum's $40 billion Browse gas project looks less likely to go ahead despite the re-election of its biggest supporter, Premier Colin Barnett.
Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan said the government intends to keep to its promise of getting debt below $250 billion by the end of the 2012/13 financial year.
Business hiring intentions are subdued due to conflicting economic messages and uncertainty over the outcome of the upcoming federal election, a survey says.
