What we learned today, Tuesday 6 June
That’s where we’ll leave the blog for today – thanks so much for joining us. Here is a wrap of the day’s biggest stories:
The Reserve Bank of Australia lifted interest rates for a 12th time in just over a year by 25 basis points, bringing the cash rate to 4.1%, its highest in 11 years.
The RBA governor, Philip Lowe, justified his decision by saying inflation, although past its peak, was still too high at 7%, and warned of further increases to come.
The treasurer, Jim Chalmers, sought to distance the federal government from the decision, saying “the war against inflation is far from won”.
In response the Greens urged the government to intervene, and the Coalition blamed Labor’s budget for adding to the “inflationary fire”.
Kathleen Folbigg enjoyed her first night out of prison after 20 years, mesmerised by new technology and spending time with close friends. In a video statement, she said she would always grieve for her children and that her pardon was a victory for science and truth.
Western Australia’s acting premier, Roger Cook, announced he had been endorsed as premier, and Rita Saffioti as deputy premier.
The NSW government signalled it would not withdraw any additional Covid fines, despite a supreme court decision finding a huge volume of pandemic-related infringements were unlawful.
The Bureau of Meteorology placed Australia on “El Niño alert”, warning there was a 70% chance of the climate system developing before the end of this year.
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The federal Labor MP for Perth, Patrick Gorman, has congratulated Roger Cook on being endorsed as the new Western Australian premier:
Congratulations to WA’s 31st Premier - Roger Cook.
— Patrick Gorman MP (@PatrickGormanMP) June 6, 2023
He will lead with compassion, purpose and with the interests of Western Australians in his heart.
I have known Roger for decades. WA and Labor are fortunate to have his experience and his passion leading our state. pic.twitter.com/PYtmNZjnxa
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