Something to Think About - New England Times Engage

Political, Regulars, Something to Think About

Denise’s Desk: When the World Wobbles, Steady Wins

6 days ago13 April 2026

Denise says right now, Australians aren’t just watching instability — they’re paying for it, every single week.

Featured, Opinion, Something to Think About

Opinion: Energy bills set to ease, but global tensions could still disrupt the outlook

7 days ago12 April 2026

Sophie Ryan from iSelect says tensions in the Middle East have the potential to reintroduce volatility into global energy markets.

Political, Regulars, Something to Think About

Denise’s Desk: Trump just knocked on my door

6 April 20263 April 2026

Denise says Trump is a wrecking ball in a suit, and he is no longer just something happening “over there”.

Political, Regulars, Something to Think About

Denise’s Desk: The Coalition is feeding the party that’s eating it

30 March 202630 March 2026

Denise says if One Nation is asking for your preferences, it is not because they want to help you. It is because they know you are helping them.

Political, Something to Think About

Opinion: What is it about the hat?

17 March 202617 March 2026

Kath Jacobs writes that a disturbing number of people are obsessed with Barnaby’s hat, and are missing the real issues.

Political, Regulars, Something to Think About

Denise’s Desk: When Repetition Replaces Reality

16 March 202624 March 2026

Denise says trust in democratic institutions is not strengthened by continually telling citizens that their country is broken.

Political, Something to Think About

Opinion: Is democracy the worst form of government – apart from all the others?

10 March 20269 March 2026

James Ley asks five experts about the strengths and weaknesses of democracy, the face evidence that trust in democratic institutions is declining.

Something to Think About, Tips and Tricks

Macca’s Weeds: The resilience of Lucerne and the aphid threat

7 March 20267 March 2026

Paul McIntosh reflects on the evolution of Lucerne in Australia, from the devastating aphid outbreaks of the 1970s to the importance of choosing the right crown height for modern paddocks.