The federal government is currently in discussions regarding a potential road user charge for electric vehicle (EV) drivers, although officials are downplaying the likelihood of any immediate changes. Environment Minister Murray Watt stated that while the government is collaborating with states and territories on this issue, it is too early to make any definitive announcements. "I wouldn't want to jump ahead of any sort of decision-making with that," Watt said during an interview. He acknowledged that a recent High Court decision has brought the topic to the forefront, prompting ongoing discussions with state leaders.

High-level talks are reportedly taking place among transport and public service leaders in Sydney to explore the proposal for a road user charge. Labor frontbencher Tanya Plibersek noted that states have been leading discussions on this matter for some time. However, she emphasized that there is no immediate plan to implement such a charge. "It's no secret that as the number of petrol vehicles and diesel vehicles goes down, the take from fuel excise decreases, which means less money for building and maintaining roads," Plibersek explained.

She added that the government’s current focus is on delivering promised tax cuts for Australians and ensuring that multinational companies contribute their fair share. "Nothing is changing tomorrow," she reiterated, indicating that the discussions are part of a long-term strategy.

In related news, Tasmanian Senator Jacqui Lambie has called for the deployment of peacekeepers to Gaza, arguing that it is necessary to resolve the ongoing conflict. Lambie criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's claims of a "global campaign of lies" regarding the situation in Gaza. She stated, "I think he has got to stop tap dancing. I think we're all seeing that vision and I just don't think it is lies. There is no doubt about that. These people are starving, let's be honest."

Lambie believes that peacekeepers are essential for stability in the region. "It is time to step in with peacekeepers. There is no other option. You cannot trust both sides," she said. She urged for a coordinated effort to send peacekeepers to Gaza to help alleviate the humanitarian crisis.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu defended Israel's military actions in Gaza, asserting that they are necessary for national security. He claimed that countries like Australia would respond similarly if faced with similar threats. "I think we're actually applying force judiciously, and they know it," he stated, addressing concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict.

As discussions continue on both the road user charge and the situation in Gaza, officials are navigating complex issues that affect both domestic policy and international relations.