America's relations with Russia and China are now mired in angst, uncertainty and mutual suspicion, writes Joseph Camilleri from La Trobe University.

Barring a major house price crash — which would cause its own damage — it looks unlikely 2017 will be the year for first home buyers. Maybe next year?

Treasurer Scott Morrison's speech last week outlining the difference between "good" and "bad" debt was a dramatic about turn for a Coalition government, and one that can't be understated, writes Ian Verrender.

If Danni Roche should unseat John Coates as the president of the Australian Olympic Committee next week, the idea that Australia would no longer have voice at the IOC's table is wrong, writes Tracey Holmes.

As Donald Trump reaches his 100-day milestone as President of the United States, many questions remain unanswered and the world is still trying to anticipate the next move of one of the world's most unpredictable men, writes Philip Williams.

Given a growing number of young women want desperately to plump their lips to Kardashian proportions, these games should concern all of us, writes Melinda Tankard Reist.

When Luke Lazurus was acquitted of rape there were no winners. A young man's life will be forever affected and a young woman is left feeling violated and robbed of her right to justice.

While US President Donald Trump is basking in the glow of his biggest legislative win yet, would-be Democratic presidential candidates are already preparing for the 2020 election, writes Sara James.

Even though Tuesday's budget is Scott Morrison's second as treasurer, its major task will be finally dealing with Joe Hockey's "nation of lifters, not leaners" legacy stain.

The AOC stoush has had more subtexts than a French art film, with the public left spinning as bitter comments fly from supporters in either camp. And wow, has it been nasty.

After 22,191 solo engagements, 5,493 speeches and a number of high-profile gaffes, Prince Philip is preparing to take a step back from his very public role.

For the majority of Australia's renters, housing will remain unaffordable, insecure, and out of reach following the 2017-18 federal budget, writes Emma Power from Western Sydney University.

A push towards prescribing generic medications rather than their branded equivalents, as flagged in the budget, may have benefits beyond simple cost savings.

It's no surprise Ahok, once a symbol of Indonesian tolerance and diversity, has been jailed — authorities know the nation's history of ugly protests too well to defy the mob on the street, writes Adam Harvey.

You can tell a lot about a budget by looking at who it punishes. This one basically targets anyone who's ever appeared on A Current Affair accompanied by a low, menacing soundtrack, writes Annabel Crabb.