Greens’ leader Richard di Natale charting rightward course

Malcolm Turnbull's hip phrases like "flexible seven-day economy" might appeal to venture capitalists, but when they feed into a policy mindset that supports an attack on penalty rates it's suddenly not so endearing, writes Tim Dunlop.

Former prime minister Tony Abbott has given further hints he may be considering staying on in the Federal Parliament and suggested the public will better appreciate his legacy with the passage of time.

Mr Abbott, who was ousted as prime minister in a leadership coup last month, also confirmed his relationship with Bronwyn Bishop had deteriorated, as a result of her being dumped as speaker over her grandiose use of entitlements.

Nato has urged Russia to end air strikes "on the Syrian opposition and civilians", days after Moscow began raids to support Syria's government.

The push for more competition was recommended by the Harper Review, which will be put before state and territory treasurers at their next meeting, scheduled for later this month.

Once again Vladimir Putin has seemingly outmanoeuvred the White House. A senior US diplomat said to me the other day that when Obama leaves office he will be roundly applauded for the way he negotiated and ultimately delivered a deal on Iran, but will be justifiably vilified for the vacillation and vagueness over his Syria policy.

Putin, on the other hand, has been totally consistent. He wants to protect Russia's only deepwater port on the Eastern Mediterranean and will do what it takes to protect it.