First of all my thanks to those who've already made a donation to our end of year fundraiser. As many of you know we are absolutely independent and fund operations purely through the generosity of the Pearls and Irritations community.

Despite constant rhetoric about innovation, Australia is steadily dismantling its scientific capacity. Public schools, universities and the CSIRO are all under pressure – the result of decades of market-driven policy-making that prioritises short-term cost-cutting over long-term national capability.

Victoria's machete ban sends an important signal, but the real enemy is disconnection, the absence of belonging, purpose, opportunity and hope.

When Premier Jacinta Allan is photographed proudly advancing Victoria’s Treaty process, she is rightly praised.

Six broad strategies will tackle the root causes of climate change and help groups prepare for the consequences of global warming. Environmentally sustainable aircraft are slow to take off. Local governments can take a lead in promoting biodiversity.

Australia’s gas industry impacts energy prices, climate, and policy — understanding its future is key to informed voting decisions.