Labor Pushes for Reserve Bank to Ban Card Surcharges

Labor frontbencher Kristy McBain has called on the Reserve Bank to take further action on card surcharges, suggesting that bank fees for businesses to use point-of-sale machines should be removed.

McBain's comments come as the issue of card surcharges continues to be debated, with some small business owners criticizing the ban put in place by the Reserve Bank. The ban has been touted as a measure to protect consumers from excessive surcharges, but some have argued that it has led to increased costs for businesses.

Meanwhile, Opposition Leader Angus Taylor has weighed in on the issue, visiting a Canberra cafe to take aim at the government over the ban. During his visit, Taylor was seen attempting to make a smoothie using a blender.

Taylor has also been questioned about the potential return of former Treasurer Josh Frydenberg to the parliamentary fold. Taylor welcomed Frydenberg back, saying he was open to working with him. However, Taylor declined to support Frydenberg's call for an increase to the GST.

In related news, several independent senators and MPs are concerned about the costs associated with Freedom of Information (FOI) appeals. Tasmanian Senator Jacqui Lambie has accused the government of "intimidation tactics" and lacking transparency over recent FOI appeals. Lambie said a person who successfully applies for documents under an FOI request could be hit with court costs if the government appeals that decision in the federal court.

"An everyday Australian shouldn't have to go broke to get to the truth from their government," said Helen Haines. Lambie is launching a bill that would require the federal government to cover reasonable costs if they make that appeal.

Rex Patrick, a former senator for South Australia, said he was the "first victim" in this scenario, as he could be forced to foot the bill to the tune of $150,000 if he loses a federal court battle to the Department of Industry, Science and Resources.

"Part of me thinks they have appealed that because they simply don't want the Australian public to know," Patrick said.

Greens have also written to the eSafety commissioner and Communications Minister Anika Wells asking them to make sure a US execution by military firing squad is not shown in Australia on TV or online.

Independent senator Lidia Thorpe has backed calls from the Greens to block the live streaming of the execution.

"We don't need people looking at that stuff," she said. "Look at what is online in this country already. It is causing mental harm to many people."