Australia politics live: Liberals prepare for leadership vote; Albanese to mark 18th anniversary of national apology

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 4 min read 100% complete by Martin FarrerFebruary 12, 2026 at 08:41 PM

AI Summary

long article 4 min

Australia's political scene is active with several key events. Economist Bruce Preston has been appointed to the Reserve Bank's interest-rate setting board, replacing Alison Watkins, and will begin his five-year term in March. His appointment follows recommendations for more technical expertise on the board. Meanwhile, Israeli President Isaac Herzog is departing Australia after a controversial four-day visit. His visit concluded in Melbourne, where he met with politicians and community leaders, but was met with large protests. Thousands gathered in Melbourne to demonstrate against his presence, following earlier protests in Sydney that resulted in arrests.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Muayad Ali 40% Treasury 40% Tasnim Sammak 40% Business Council of Australia 50% Coca-Cola Amatil 50% Alison Watkins ×270% Jim Chalmers 70% Melbourne ×270% Reserve Bank ×280% Isaac Herzog ×480% Australia ×390% Bruce Preston ×590%

Keywords

australia 90% interest rate 80% protests 80% isaac herzog 70% reserve bank 70% monetary policy 60% palestinian 60% appointment 50% leadership vote 40%

Sentiment Analysis

Neutral

Score: -0.10

Source Transparency

Source

The Guardian - World News

Political Lean

Center-Left (-0.40)

Far LeftCenterFar Right

Classification Confidence

90%

Geographic Perspective

Australia

This article was automatically classified using rule-based analysis. The political bias score ranges from -1 (far left) to +1 (far right).

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australia interest rate protests isaac herzog reserve bank monetary policy palestinian appointment leadership vote

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