Free speech and antisemitism: drawing the line
In this extract from his submission to the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion Gareth Evans argues that it is crucial that protest language claimed to be inherently antisemitic be evaluated on a case-by-case basis, taking into account context and intent.
Recent articles in Our Top Five Each Week
26 March 2026
Patriotism or politics – the fight over the flag
As populism rises, the Australian flag is being used as a political tool – defining patriotism and drawing lines around national identity.
26 March 2026
Tuberculosis remains the world’s deadliest infectious disease – Australia’s regional leadership matters
Tuberculosis is preventable and curable, yet remains the world’s deadliest infectious disease. Australia’s regional role is critical to changing that.
25 March 2026
Time for tax reform – and this may be the moment to act
With inequality rising and budget pressures mounting, a rare political window has opened for meaningful tax reform – if the government chooses to act.
25 March 2026
Labor’s 2025 landslide – but Australia remains divided
A new book on the 2025 election reveals Labor’s commanding win – but also a fragmented electorate, a weakened opposition and a volatile political landscape.
25 March 2026
In South Australia One Nation surges and the Liberals slide – but the shake-up has limits
A poor result for the Liberals and a surge for One Nation signal voter anger and fragmentation – but history suggests the insurgency may not last.
23 March 2026
Climate denial has deep roots in Coalition politics
From Howard to Abbott, senior Coalition figures have repeatedly dismissed climate science – favouring belief over evidence and weakening public debate.
22 March 2026
The dangerous stories driving war in Iran
From Trump to Putin, the narratives leaders tell themselves shape global conflict – and the war in Iran shows the consequences when belief overrides reality.
22 March 2026
The wisdom of David Solomon (plus priceless insights, grace and humour)
David Solomon’s 'Footnotes' reveals the stories behind Australian politics and journalism – including the moments that never made it into print.
20 March 2026
Another High Court rebuke on immigration laws – and a warning on rushed policymaking
A new High Court ruling has struck down the Albanese government’s restrictions on former immigration detainees – exposing the risks of rushed, politically driven lawmaking.
20 March 2026
The weaponisation of antisemitism is making Jews less safe
Revulsion at Israel’s actions in Gaza is driving a global rise in antisemitism, while efforts to conflate criticism of Israel with hatred of Jews are deepening the danger.
19 March 2026
ACT justice system on the brink from chronic underfunding
Legal Aid, prosecutors and the courts are all under pressure, raising concerns about fairness, workload and the effective operation of the ACT justice system.
