The Latest Breaking News from Canberra

Parramatta have produced a strong second-half defensive display to beat Canberra 28-20 in their NRL clash at GIO Stadium.

Sydney (AFP) - Australia's newly elected prime minister has said Pacific leaders have been "very positive" about his government's renewed engagement, even as Beijing continues its diplomatic blitz across the increasingly contested region.

Canberra property prices have risen 36.3 per cent in the two years since the Koutsoukos siblings signed the contract for their townhouse.

Investigating cattle rustlers and rescuing bushwalkers are all part of the regular beat for the rural patrol, part of the territory's police for 60 years.

China's foreign minister signed a deal with Samoa on Saturday to strengthen diplomatic relations, while Australia's new leader said he had a "comprehensive plan" for the Pacific, as Beijing and Canberra continued rival campaigns to woo the region.

Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi is touring eight Pacific island nations as part of a strategy to increase Beijing's clout in the region. The move triggered Western countries to strengthen ties and may re-boot the relationship between France and Australia, still suffering from a submarine deal that went wrong.

Deputy Nationals leader David Littleproud confirms he will try to topple Barnaby Joyce as leader when the party meets in Canberra on Monday.

Canberra will get a huge boost on Sunday afternoon when recruit Jamal Fogarty debuts against Parramatta.

Women much like the PM’s mum Maryanne need action to raise welfare payments and cut waiting lists for public housing