Top Stories – Wednesday 9 September, 2015

Abbott govt ‘approves’ Syrian air strikes
There are reports, based on internal leaks, that the national security committee of cabinet has given the green light to RAAF bombing raids. Read more.
Queen Elizabeth II celebrates longest reign
On Wednesday, the UK Monarch will surpass the previous record set by Queen Victoria. Many moments were captured over her 63 years on the throne. Read more.
Have you ever taken a fake sickie? It’s ok. So has everyone else
A cheeky tourism campaign reveals Aussies are very willing to fake illness for a day off. And boy, we’re good at justifying it to ourselves. Read more.
Lance Franklin’s admission shows ‘goalposts have moved’ on mental illness
With his team poised to play its first final, star Swan’s revelation triggers sympathy for his condition and applause for revealing it. Read more.
The key to making homes cheaper? More babycinos. Seriously
How single-origin coffee beans and organic grocery shops could be solve the problem of sky-high house prices. Read more.
Welcoming or miserly? Here’s where Australia really ranks on refugees
Our politicians claim we’re among the world’s best when it comes to accepting refugees. These statistics tell a different story. Read more.
How Tony Abbott got spooked by the big end of town
Small business groups are furious that the Abbott government has backed down on long-promised competition reforms. Read more.
The mental health of these Australians is in ‘freefall’
A huge disparity in psychological wellbeing is being ignored and poorly treated. And it’s getting worse, with experts warning of a ‘startling’ crisis. Read more.
If we want to win the Davis Cup, Lleyton Hewitt’s got to go
Tim Colebatch says it’s time to axe the great Aussie battler and replace him with a new star. He’s young, he’s talented and you’ve never heard of him. Read more.
When athletes try to be actors, this is what happens
David Beckham has scored a movie role. Careful Becks, transitioning from sport to screen is no easy feat – just ask these stars. Read more.
Car of the week: Toyota fails to breathe life into stale Corolla
It remains a best-seller and a reliable first car, but it’s time for this stale and clunky model to get a proper revamp. Read more.
Don’t mess up: here’s what to wear to a job interview
You only get to make one first impression, and new research has shown that your appearance matters more than you think. Read more.