For those of us who keep a keen eye on the media, there’s been no shortage of news content this week. Joe Aston’s defamation trial has provided plenty of fodder for commentators (including our own contributors). The ABC’s election coverage and Four Corners Canberra bubble episode have been back in the news. And, of course, there’s the news media code.

But as we all wind down for the year, we’re still keeping an eye on the big stories of the week and bringing you considered analysis on politics, business, social issues and much more.

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BERNARD KEANE 4 minute read

Paul Fletcher's clumsy attempt to pressure the ABC board will backfire, leaving the government with nowhere to go.

ITA BUTTROSE 5 minute read

ABC chair Ita Buttrose on why the broadcaster did not want to make its report on bias in its 2019 election coverage public.

JOHN QUIGGIN 3 minute read

Despite winning approvals and commencing construction, Adani's Queensland coal mine is as controversial as ever.

AMBER SCHULTZ 2 minute read

Disability, aged care and mental health workers earn some of the lowest wages in the country. Meanwhile, a third of our medical practitioners received their initial qualification overseas.

GUY RUNDLE 4 minute read

Labor can't underestimate its vulnerability on superannuation. If it does, it risks a repeat of the franking credits disaster.

JANINE PERRETT 3 minute read

At least the 1920s party started after the Spanish flu pandemic had actually ended.

MADONNA KING 3 minute read

A post-COVID world is going to look very different for our future leaders — and their education must reflect that.

DAVID HARDAKER 6 minute read

Integrity commissions are feared and despised by conservatives, who are doing everything they can to limit their power.

BERNARD KEANE 4 minute read

With a reshuffle looming, who should rise and who should fall in a government short on talent, particularly among the Nationals?

MICHAEL BRADLEY 4 minute read

The prime minister doesn't get angry all that often. But it's worth paying attention to the times when he does.

CHRISTOPHER WARREN 3 minute read

The giant tech company is close to agreements with News Corp and most other publishers — but not Nine.

AMBER SCHULTZ 3 minute read

Why is the Morrison government so reluctant to challenge the Gulf state?

CHARLIE LEWIS 4 minute read

Crikey pays tribute to the veteran political commentator, wit and brilliant writer.