The median scam in Australia last year cost $400 – so a rapid refund of up to $3,000 sounds generous. But take a closer look and it starts to look oddly low.

Yes, these may be ‘once-in-a-generation’ reforms. But for those ‘languishing’ in the system without the help they need, there’s much more still to be done.

Finance Minister Nicola Willis forecasts an earlier-than-expected return to surplus in an unsurprisingly no-frills budget.

After two people in the Northern Territory died from Murray Valley encephalitis, health authorities are warning residents and travellers to avoid mosquito bites.