AustraliaOwnership & classification
Founded: 2011
Ownership
The Conversation is an independent, not-for-profit news site launched in Melbourne in March 2011 by founding editor Andrew Jaspan, publishing analysis written by academics and researchers and edited by professional journalists. It is operated by The Conversation Media Group, a charitable trust with no commercial proprietor; its founding A$10m came from universities (Melbourne, Monash, ANU, UWA), the CSIRO, the Victorian and federal governments and the Commonwealth Bank. It has since spawned independent international editions.
Funding
Funded by membership fees from partner universities and research bodies, philanthropic grants, government and research-council grants, and more than 22,000 individual reader donations; content is free to read and republish under Creative Commons, with no paywall or commercial advertising as the core model.
Affiliation & stance
Editorially it leans centre-left and is academic in tone, but it operates as a non-profit with an editorial charter and is not owned or directed by any party, church, union or the state, despite drawing some public grant money. As a privately governed charitable/non-profit publisher free of party or government control, it is correctly classified as INDEPENDENT.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 289
78/100
Factual
75/100
Objective
373
Articles
372
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
‘Unbelievable’: One Nation immigration policy in chaos as MP concedes target ‘not too different’ from Labor’s
One Nation, an Australian political party, faces internal criticism over its immigration policy after MP David Farley suggested the party's proposed migration numbers are not significantly different from those of the current Albanese government. Farley attempted to redefine 'net overseas migration' (NOM), stating that while the raw number might be similar to the government's, the focus should be on where migrants are needed, primarily in rural areas for sectors like agriculture, engineering, and mining rather than major cities. He explained that One Nation's target of 130,000 annual net overseas migrants does not include additional migrant categories such as the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) program and aged care nurses, which could add at least 100,000 more migrants annually. This clarification has led to accusations from both the opposition and the ruling party that One Nation lacks consistency and clarity on a central policy issue.
From Count Binface to AI Steve: why are we voting for joke candidates?
The article discusses the candidacy of Count Binface, a fictional character running in a UK parliamentary by-election for the Clacton seat. He is competing against Nigel Farage, who recently resigned due to financial scrutiny. Count Binface, known for his absurd policies like nationalizing Adele and capping ice cream prices, is portrayed as a satirical figure drawing attention to critiques of politicians like Farage. The article references historical precedent, such as David Sutch's 1963 campaign advocating lowering the voting age to 18, which later became law. It raises questions about the role of humor in politics and whether such figures undermine democratic processes or enhance engagement.
Inquiry into criminalising abuse that can 'make your life hell' hears from just one survivor
An inquiry into proposed legislation in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) to criminalize coercive control concluded after hearing testimony from only one survivor. The Crimes (Coercive Control) Amendment Bill 2026 aims to align with New South Wales (NSW), which made coercive control a standalone offense in 2024. While the inquiry received 23 supportive submissions from organizations and advocates, only one individual, Samantha Bouffler, a survivor of domestic violence, shared her personal experience. Bouffler described how coercive control, which includes emotional manipulation, financial control, and isolation, can severely impact victims' lives. She expressed concern over the limited representation of survivors during the inquiry, noting that many cases of coercive control remain unrecognized or unaddressed. Her former partner, Callum Fairleigh, was recently jailed for the crime in NSW, highlighting the potential severity of the offense.
Coalition slams ‘failed’ gun buybacks as Albanese vows to push on
On August 16, 2026, the Australian Coalition criticized the federal government's delayed implementation of a national gun buyback scheme, which took nearly eight months to secure agreement with New South Wales (NSW), where it will begin in November. Opposition leaders, including Nationals' Matt Canavan, accused the Labor government of imposing a 'failed' policy that unfairly targets lawful gun owners and called for its abandonment. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the initiative, emphasizing the 'cost of inaction' and offering financial incentives for participation. While NSW Premier Chris Minns acknowledged the program's expense, he stated it was 'a price worth paying.' Meanwhile, Victoria's new premier, Ben Carroll, deferred decision-making to police chief commissioner Mike Bush, leaving the state's stance unclear. The scheme faces continued resistance from jurisdictions like Queensland and the Northern Territory, with legislative challenges from the Nationals potentially delaying its rollout.
Israeli ambassador suggests former defence chief Binskin return to Israel to pursue Frankcom decision
Israeli Ambassador Hillel Newman has urged Australia to send former Defence Chief Mark Binskin back to Israel to review the Israeli military's handling of the 2024 attack on Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom and others. The attack, which occurred during a nighttime delivery mission in Gaza, resulted in seven fatalities across multiple nationalities. Following an internal Israeli inquiry that concluded there was 'no reasonable suspicion of criminal misconduct,' the Albanese government expressed strong frustration, particularly after the announcement came shortly after Foreign Minister Penny Wong launched an award in Frankcom's name on World Humanitarian Day. While Australia remains committed to pursuing the matter, it faces challenges due to the upcoming Israeli elections and limited leverage. Newman proposed Binskin revisiting the case with access to relevant personnel, suggesting potential avenues for legal recourse and reparations. However, Australian government sources remain cautious about Binskin's return unless tangible progress is assured.
Victorian polls have Coalition leading Labor by narrow to large margins
The article discusses recent polling data ahead of the Victorian state election scheduled for November 28. Since Ben Carroll took over as Labor leader, five polls show the Coalition leading Labor by narrow to larger margins, with some polls indicating a 51–49 or 57–43 advantage after preferences. One Nation's support has declined, making it easier for the Coalition to secure a majority. While both major parties lead in primary votes, the election appears to be shaping up as a two-party contest. Labor's primary vote is at its lowest level in a Resolve poll since before the 2025 federal election. The Resolve poll, which sampled 1,000 voters, showed the Coalition with a 53–47 lead over Labor by preference, with strong support for Liberal leader Jess Wilson. Public opinion suggests that while Carroll's leadership is seen as a minor shift, many believe Wilson and the Liberals are capable of effective governance.
Victoria’s Big Build royal commission: do the terms of reference go far enough?
Victorian Premier Ben Carroll has announced the establishment of a royal commission to investigate alleged criminality and corruption within Victoria’s Big Build infrastructure program. The commission, led by former South Australian judge Chris Kourakis and allocated a $50 million budget, will begin operations before the November state election and deliver its findings by August of the following year. The initiative follows claims that organized crime and outlaw motorcycle gangs infiltrated major construction projects through the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU), leading to inflated costs via extortion, fixed contracts, and fraudulent labor practices. While the terms of reference are described as broad and comprehensive, concerns remain about whether they sufficiently address potential government complicity in these activities. Police investigations are limited to criminal acts, leaving 'grey' corruption, such as unethical behavior not meeting legal thresholds, to be explored through an independent inquiry.
How being ‘on-call’ for work can disrupt your sleep – even if the call never comes
The article discusses how being 'on-call' for work, where employees must remain available outside regular hours, can negatively affect sleep quality, even if no calls come through. Despite Australia's legal 'right to disconnect' introduced in 2024, on-call work remains prevalent in sectors like healthcare, emergency services, and gig economy jobs. Research indicates that the mere knowledge of being on-call creates stress and uncertainty, disrupting sleep due to heightened alertness and anxiety. This phenomenon is linked to both physical and mental health risks, as poor sleep can lead to fatigue, reduced cognitive function, and increased stress levels. Studies cited show that even without actual interruptions, the psychological burden of potential calls can interfere with rest.
We’re building a New York-sized city every month. That’s worrying for our climate
The article discusses the rapid pace of global construction, equating it to building a New York City every month, and highlights its environmental impact. It notes that while new buildings provide essential infrastructure, they contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions through 'embodied carbon', emissions from construction materials and processes. Australia's National Housing Accord aims to build 1.2 million homes by 2029, but this pales compared to the 96,000 homes needed daily worldwide. The article references a study showing Australian office buildings could emit 138 million tonnes of CO2 between 2024 and 2049, equivalent to 36 coal-fired power plants. While operating emissions are expected to decrease due to renewable energy adoption, embodied emissions will likely stay high due to reliance on carbon-intensive materials.
What Sanae Takaichi’s popularity among women says about gender equality in Japan
The article discusses the unexpected popularity of Japan's first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, among younger voters and women, despite her conservative stance on issues like gender roles and the imperial succession. While some analysts suggest her appeal lies in her policies rather than her gender, others argue that her election reflects a desire for change after decades of male leadership. However, the author, an anthropologist studying Japanese women, suggests that the phenomenon reveals deeper cultural attitudes toward gender equality. Many Japanese women continue to bear significant domestic responsibilities, even as they pursue careers, highlighting persistent gender inequalities. This dynamic helps explain why Takaichi's popularity may reflect practical concerns over economic stability rather than overt support for feminist ideals.
Why a chronically underfunded arts sector will make NZ poorer – and duller
The article discusses concerns within New Zealand's arts sector due to recent funding reductions and staff cuts at Creative New Zealand. A recent funding round provided just over NZ$104 million to 94 organizations, nearly half of the requested amount, with many groups receiving significantly less than before. Notably, only 10% of funds went to South Island-based organizations, leading to disappointment among groups like Dunedin Arts Festival, which received no funding despite being recommended for support. Research indicates that public investment in the arts generates substantial economic returns, yet the sector continues to face budget cuts, including a $27 million reduction to the Ministry for Culture and Heritage. Meanwhile, the government's new strategy aims to boost arts exports and employment but faces criticism for expecting more with less.
Designed to 'exploit' children: Meta faces a historic courtroom reckoning
A U.S. federal trial is underway against Meta, accused of intentionally designing Instagram and Facebook to exploit children's psychology and harm their mental health. Prosecutors from multiple states are seeking $282 billion in penalties, comparing the case to the 'big tobacco moment' in holding corporations accountable for harmful practices. California prosecutor Megan O'Neill alleges Meta's business model was designed to hook users, harvest data, and conceal risks, particularly affecting youth. Meta's defense argues that while some users may have been harmed, research does not show a direct link between adolescent social media use and poor well-being. The trial includes testimony from Meta's CEO Mark Zuckerberg and other executives, with activists and families alleging that social media contributed to deaths by suicide. This case could set a precedent for future lawsuits against major tech companies.
Want to muck around with a real quantum computer? Now you can
A new open-access quantum computing facility, the National Quantum Computing Testbed, has opened in Queensland, Australia. Funded with A$10.5 million, the testbed is a collaboration between the University of Queensland and CSIRO, offering researchers and industry professionals access to a real quantum processor. This initiative addresses the challenge of limited access to quantum computers, which are typically expensive and difficult to use. The testbed provides affordable, hands-on access to a 5-qubit superconducting chip, along with advanced software and simulation tools. It aims to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial applications in quantum computing, enabling experimentation and innovation across multiple fields.