The 10 people behind Labor’s gay marriage shift. At the ALP’s last national conference two years ago, the party reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining marriage as between a man and a woman. Even support for gay civil unions seemed a long way off.

This year, the party amended its official policy platform to advocate same-sex marriage. How did such a rapid change come about and who were the key players behind it? Andrew Barr and Louise Pratt are the driving force behind the Rainbow Labor Network, a group of Labor MPs agitating for gay rights within the party. — Matthew Knott (read the full story here)

People’s jury as Greiner/BOF stoush builds. Nick Greiner looks like he’s still trying to live up to his mantle as Sydney’s most powerful person, this time urging the implementation of a “citizen’s jury” to advise on NSW infrastructure projects.

In a suggestion that echoes Julia Gillard’s aborted “citizen’s assembly” on climate change, Greiner is calling for a 100-member body to consult on public works. And in what amounts to a thinly-veiled swipe at NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell’s refusal to sell electricity assets, Greiner says a people’s jury would help politicians make “tough decisions”. — The Power Index (read the full story here)

Packer’s handy profit plays. The mythical story I most love about the late Kerry Packer concerns the businessman who approached Packer in an airport lounge one day with a simple request. “Kerry, I’m about to have a really important meeting with someone. It would really impress this bloke if you came over and said hello.” Packer agreed and a few minutes after the meeting started he sauntered over to help his new friend.

But before he could speak, the man waved him away. “Not now Kerry, can’t you see I’m in a very important meeting.” The story has been retold so many times there’s probably no chance it’s true, but it’s a great little fable that underlines how important the backing of men like James and Kerry Packer can be. — James Thomson (read the full story here)