What we learned; Wednesday 29 March
We’re going to wrap up the live blog now. Here’s what made the news today:
Australia’s annual inflation rate slowed in February, led by smaller rises for fuel and housing, adding to evidence that the worst of the price increases has passed.
Seven members of the Coalition, including the frontbenchers Angus Taylor, Andrew Hastie, Dan Tehan and Ted O’Brien, have apologised for leaving parliament after the speaker had ordered doors to be closed.
The spy agency Asio will take over issuing the highest level security clearances in Australia in response to what the government calls “the unprecedented threat from espionage and foreign interference”.
The attorney general, Mark Dreyus, announced Paul Brereton will lead the national anti-corruption commission when it launches in the middle of the year.
The Albanese government could have to make decisions on whether to approve up to 28 coalmine developments that would make it harder to meet emission reduction targets set under its newly approved climate policy, according to a new analysis.
Assessment and support services for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder will be the subject of parliamentary scrutiny after the Australian Senate backed a Greens proposal for an inquiry on the issue.
Thanks for sticking with us today. Amy Remeikis will be back with you early tomorrow morning. Have a great night.
Updated
Traditional owner ‘shocked and distressed’ by treatment ahead of Obama event
Traditional owner Aunty Joy Murphy has said she was prevented from performing a welcome to country ceremony at an event with former US president, Barack Obama, in Melbourne.
In a statement, the Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation said Aunty Murphy had previously welcomed dignitaries including Queen Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela and the Dalai Lama. It is concerned by what it describes as “a lack of understanding and respect” shown to the senior elder by event organisers.
Here’s the statement from Aunty Murphy:
I have been shocked and distressed by the way I have been treated by event organisers.
I am 78 years of age. I have never been treated or spoken to in this way in the past. I do not want this to be a reflection on President Obama. I am a leader of the Wurundjeri Nation. I asked to be treated as an equal.
Updated
