Australia election 2025 live: mourners gather at cathedrals after pope’s death; not a day for ‘overt politicking’ but debate to go ahead, Dutton says

Albanese says pontiff was a ‘devoted champion and a loving father’ as Melbourne Cardinal Mykola Bychok praises ‘strong defender of life’. Follow today’s news liveGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastLatest updates: tributes paid after Pope Francis dies aged 88Polls tracker; election guide; full federal election coverageAnywhere but Canberra; interactive electorates guideMonsignor Stuart Hall, the dean of St Patrick’s Cathedral in Melbourne, tells mourners that the “beloved” Pope Francis called out to a range of voices including the dispossessed.He says Christians around the world are saddened by the death of Francis, but rejoice in him returning home.We saw a compassionate man, someone who was full of mercy and who always took care of those he saw in need … So our thoughts and prayers are with the Catholic community today.People from all faiths will mourn the loss of Pope Francis tonight - he was a strong voice for peace, compassion and refugees.Even as his health faded, Pope Francis was a tireless advocate for Palestine, calling people in Gaza even from his hospital bed. Vale. Continue reading...

Australia election 2025 live: mourners gather at cathedrals after pope’s death; not a day for ‘overt politicking’ but debate to go ahead, Dutton says

Albanese says pontiff was a ‘devoted champion and a loving father’ as Melbourne Cardinal Mykola Bychok praises ‘strong defender of life’. Follow today’s news live

Monsignor Stuart Hall, the dean of St Patrick’s Cathedral in Melbourne, tells mourners that the “beloved” Pope Francis called out to a range of voices including the dispossessed.

He says Christians around the world are saddened by the death of Francis, but rejoice in him returning home.

We saw a compassionate man, someone who was full of mercy and who always took care of those he saw in need … So our thoughts and prayers are with the Catholic community today.

People from all faiths will mourn the loss of Pope Francis tonight - he was a strong voice for peace, compassion and refugees.

Even as his health faded, Pope Francis was a tireless advocate for Palestine, calling people in Gaza even from his hospital bed. Vale. Continue reading...