Australia politics live: Labor makes move to crack down on consultants after latest scandal

Federal government releases options paper to improve regulation of accounting, auditing and consulting firms. Follow today’s news live

• Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast

Independent Nicolette Boele backs childcare reforms

The independent member for Bradfield, Nicolette Boele, has backed calls for a national early childhood education and care commission to manage supply and improve safety regulation in the sector.

If you’re in that position, hearing that the government is waiting for Deloitte to finish a report before they can increase the childcare subsidy, doesn’t hold up. Families can’t budget around a maybe. I’ve written to the minister, and I want the government to commit to a national commission with a firm timeline – not keep it on the “considering” pile.

Continue reading...