Social media hate fuels politics, inflation tied to Iran conflict, US viewed as threat in new updates

Treasurer Jim Chalmers warned that social media now functions as a business model for hate, driving a surge in threats and abuse toward politicians. Speaking at the Political Book of the Year awards in Canberra, he cited the recent alleged attack on Indi MP Helen Haines, noting a 43-year-old man has been charged after the assault outside her Wangaratta office. Chalmers described a new wave of digital misogyny that follows women in public life and said algorithms monetize rage, reward extremism and punish nuance, leaving the most visible figures especially vulnerable. He added that books shape views without hardening them, while social platforms harden opinions without informing. Assistant Treasurer Daniel Mulino said higher-than-expected inflation and a likely interest-rate rise dominate the current news cycle. He linked the pressure to a prolonged, intensified conflict in Iran, which has pushed global energy prices above earlier forecasts. Mulino pointed out that inflation is rising across advanced economies but praised Australia’s labour market as stronger than those of other nations. A YouGov survey commissioned by the Australia Institute found only 50% of Australians view the United States as a friend, while 42% label it a threat. Among young voters, just 4% see the US as a close friend and more than half consider it a threat. Indonesia emerged as the most trusted nearby partner, leading the US by 14% in the friend category. Two-thirds of One Nation supporters view the US positively, with the Coalition close behind; Labour voters are split and only a quarter of Greens voters are favourable. ## Context These updates show how online discourse, global geopolitics and shifting public sentiment intersect with Australia’s economic and political challenges.