Federalism, state rights and the law

The pandemic has reopened debate on the role of the Commonwealth and the right of states to go their own way in tackling the crisis. Victoria’s response is a warning on ceding power to executive government, argues Morry Bailes.

Victorian Govt extends state of emergency by six months

A six-month extension to the Victorian government’s state of emergency powers has passed parliament after a surprise intervention by the Greens.

Daniel Andrews departs a press conference in Melbourne. Photo: AAP/James Ross

Victoria set to extend state of emergency for six months

The Victorian government has secured the support of three crossbenchers to extend its current state of emergency by six months.

Victoria's virus deaths spike as cases drop

Victoria has suffered a sharp rise in coronavirus deaths, with 24 new fatalities.

Debating extending a state of emergency is parliament's right

The Victorian Government’s move to extend its state of emergency for another 12 months would entrench extraordinary powers in the hands of a few without oversight or debate. Parliament should not be overlooked, argues Eric Windholz.

Backlash over Vic Govt plan to extend state of emergency for a year

A political stoush is brewing over a proposed 12-month extension to Victoria’s state of emergency to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.