Opinion

James Massola Chief political commentator

August 14, 2026 — 5:00am

August 14, 2026 — 5:00am

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If Anthony Albanese has a fatal flaw – and every politician has one – it is his stubbornness.

That flaw has been on full display this week as the prime minister has been engulfed by a scandal entirely of his own making: melon-gate has embarrassed and damaged Albanese’s standing, to Australia’s detriment, and hurt Australia-Japan relations.

It has also hurt Albanese’s standing with his colleagues. During private conversations this week with…

Read the full article at SMH.COM.AU