Opinion: Do positive affirmations work? A psychologist unpacks the evidence

Madeleine Fraser, Australian Catholic University

While popular on social media, repeating positive affirmations isn’t a cure-all. A clinical psychologist unpacks the evidence behind self-affirmation, warning against the risks of “toxic positivity” and offering more effective alternatives like self-compassion.

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OPINION >

Opinion: Are we the baddies?

Annabel Doherty, Armidale

Annabel Doherty reflects on the recent political discourse in the New England Times, arguing that while populist rhetoric creates engagement, the real work lies in challenging the structures that divide us.


IDEAS >

Opinion: Firefighters face repeat trauma. We learned how to reduce their risk of PTSD

Meaghan O’Donnell & Tracey Varker, The University of Melbourne

First responders face high risks of PTSD, but new research shows it isn’t inevitable. A trial of the “SOLAR” mobile app – a confidential, self-led program teaching practical resilience skills – significantly reduced depression and trauma symptoms in firefighters.

Opinion: An ‘AI afterlife’ is now a real option – but what becomes of your legal status?

Wellett Potter, Senior Lecturer in Law, University of New England

Generative AI now allows you to create a “digital twin” for your loved ones to interact with after you die. But this booming “grief tech” industry raises serious unanswered questions about copyright, privacy, and who actually owns your digital identity once you are gone.

Opinion: The sad decline of the Bureau of Meteorology

Duane Groth, Delungra

Duane Groth argues the Bureau of Meteorology’s new website oversimplifies data, creating dangerous risks. He highlights issues with rainfall reporting, temperature minimums, and inaccurate UV forecasts, fearing a repeat of past disasters like Grantham.


REGIONAL >

Letter: Joyce sideline

Mal Peters, Ashford

Rural people have always had conflict with the Nationals saying one thing in the bush and another when they went to Canberra. The perils of Coalition.…

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SOLUTIONS >

Tips+Tricks: Why Brand Soul is Not Sentimental, It’s Commercial

Georgie Scott, Partner, founder+future

Georgie Scott says that “brand soul” in founder-led businesses isn’t just sentimental; it’s a crucial commercial asset. She explains how scaling often dilutes this magic and why codifying founder instinct is key to long-term value creation.

SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT >

Would you use AI to break writer’s block? We asked 5 experts

Nicola Redhouse & Seth Robinson The University of Melbourne; Ariella Van Luyn & Christopher Rees, University of New England; Sally Breen, Griffith University.

Bloomsbury CEO Nigel Newton suggests AI can help authors beat writer’s block. Five creative writing experts weigh in, offering perspectives ranging from ethical concerns to accessibility benefits, highlighting the complex debate on AI in literature.

QW: Barnaby Joyce

Jaki, Bendemeer

I disagree wholeheartedly with Denise’s comments on Barnaby Joyce today.  He got out of the national party because he was no longer aligned to their ideology, infighting with liberals, marriage on then off again. He saw what was happening in his own party.  I saw him in the streets here in Bendemeer where I live and said to him, you are now on the right side of politics now you’re with One Nation.  

QW: Politicians need to stop talking and start doing

Thelma Yoong, Inverell

Thelma Yoong writes: If it took us all 3 years to pass a suggestion at our workplace, nothing would get done. That is this Parliament now. We know Net Zero is destroying our lives… please politicians get off your soap boxes and change the rules.

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