A report has found people who live in the city fare better in terms of health, education, employment and wealth than their rural counterparts.

The Federal Court has heard Speaker Peter Slipper is deeply distressed over sexual allegations made by former adviser James Ashby.

Justice Stephen Rares has started hearing the civil case that political adviser James Ashby lodged against Mr Slipper and the Commonwealth.

Mr Ashby alleges Mr Slipper only hired him in order to pursue a sexual relationship.

The local share market is on track for its lowest close since November, as worries about the stability of Greece and Spain spark a sell off.

A former political staffer and reality television show contestant has been jailed for up to 16 years for attempted murder in New South Wales.

The competition regulator will investigate clothing importers who are making deals with international online stores to inflate prices for their Australian customers.

NSW teachers have held a stop-work meeting, voting to ramp up industrial action unless the state government reviews its education reforms.

A glittering lunch to be held to celebrate the diamond jubilee of Queen Elizabeth has been marred by protests that the guest list includes "blood-stained despots".

Queensland coach Mal Meninga cancelled a scheduled training run on Friday to keep his Origin players fresh and relaxed before game one.

Casey Stoner has shocked the motorcycle racing world by announcing he is retiring because he has "lost the passion" to continue.