Anna Henderson

As the National Archives unseals previously secret documents, former prime minister John Howard reflects on the major political decisions of 2004.

2004 saw one of Australia's most successful Olympic campaigns. It was also a successful year for John Howard, who won his fourth election. But it wasn't without challenges - as the justification for the War in Iraq disappeared and images of human rights abuses by US soldiers emerged. Hundreds of Cabinet Papers from the year 2004 have been released, giving a glimpse of the inner workings of the Howard Government.

2004 saw one of Australia's most successful Olympic campaigns. It was also a successful year for John Howard, who won his fourth election. But it wasn't without challenges - as the justification for the War in Iraq disappeared and images of human rights abuses by US soldiers emerged.

Underlying inflation has dropped to its lowest rate in three years in the December quarter. Economists say it's strengthening the case for a pre-election rate cut next month.

Underlying inflation has dropped to its lowest rate in three years in the December quarter. Economists say it's strengthening the case for a pre-election rate cut next month. Listen to SBS Sinhala explainer for more information.

Underlying inflation has dropped to its lowest rate in three years in the December quarter. Economists say it's strengthening the case for a pre-election rate cut next month.

The Reserve Bank has delivered the expected cut in the official interest rate- the first since late 2020. But there's a sting in the tail, with a warning that economic conditions remain volatile, and any additional rate cuts this year are far from certain.

The Prime Minister is hoping for a popularity bounce after yesterday's interest rate cut. But the Opposition maintains it won't be enough to help struggling families. As a date for the next election looms, billionaire Clive Palmer has committed to a new foray into the parliament, promising to campaign on the same policy platform as Donald Trump.

Find out how the first interest rate cut impacts politics and the federal election in Australia.

The Prime Minister is hoping for a popularity bounce after yesterday's interest rate cut. But the Opposition maintains it won't be enough to help struggling families. As a date for the next election looms, billionaire Clive Palmer has committed to a new foray into the parliament, promising to campaign on the same policy platform as Donald Trump. Listen to SBS Sinhala explainer for more information.