Morning Mail: How datacentres play the political game; podcast delays sex offence trial; and Dolly Parton celebrated

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Lobbying and political donations from the companies behind the rapid datacentre development in Australia are in the spotlight, amid concerns over tech firms’ access to the nation’s decision-makers.

Meanwhile, court documents have revealed that The Australian’s podcast Shadow of Doubt led to a delay of 10 months for the sex offence trial of a “sadistic” paedophile already serving a decades-long term behind bars.

Exclusive | The Australian’s podcast Shadow of Doubt led to a delay of 10 months for the sex offence trial of a “sadistic” paedophile already serving a 48-year jail term for abusing his daughter.

Datacentre scrutiny | Amid backlash over fast-tracked datacentres, the financial contributions of big tech firms – including donations to major parties and an ex-premier as a lobbyist – are facing scrutiny.

Analysis | Australia has never driven migration into reverse by design.

Yet, this is exactly what One Nation is promising to do if it wins power.

So, would slamming on the brakes be calamitous ? Digital duty of care | The Greens will push Labor to strengthen new laws designed to rein in big tech , calling for individuals to have the right to take platforms to court and win financial compensation.

Analysis | The CPAC conference in Brisbane boiled down to how the conservative right would boot Labor from office.

But despite the spectacle, it remains unclear how the parties will cooperate .

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