The leaders of the major parties are acutely aware that a misstep when responding to a natural disaster can have major political consequences.

The Australian Government Disaster Recovery Payment, a one-off payment of $1,000 for adults and $400 for children, will be available to individuals who have been significantly impacted by the disaster. This payment is part of a broader support package jointly funded by state and federal governments.

Australia’s top military representative in Europe is preparing to head to Paris for high-powered talks on the future of Ukraine.

Natural disasters require politicians — along with everyone else — to try to lift themselves out of the political twirl and into more conspicuous leadership roles.

West Australian Premier Roger Cook will use his massive election victory, his booming personal popularity and the increasingly strong resources of WA Labor to help Anthony Albanese sandbag crucial federal seats in the state.

Ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred has been downgraded to a tropical low, as it approaches Australia’s eastern coast. Although the speed at which Alfred is travelling has slowed, Brisbane locals have been sent a stark warning of what might be to come.

Deputy Liberal Leader Sussan Ley has urged Anthony Albanese to confirm whether Labor will definitely hand down a budget, after-party members were issued invites to a $1200-a-head post-budget dinner.