Democracy under threat, governor general warns, Europe to boycott Fifa, fires force Clooneys to evacuate

Want to get this in your inbox every weekday? Sign up for the Morning Mail here, and finish your day with our Afternoon Update newsletterGood morning. Australia faces a “growing catastrophe” from poor understanding of the country’s constitutional foundation, the governor general, Sam Mostyn, has warned as attacks on institutions and threats against elected officials undermine democratic participation.In other news, European football federations have agreed to boycott Fifa competitions over its selloff plans, George and Amal Clooney have evacuated their home in France, and a library book has been returned after 150 years.Archibald winner | An artist’s portrayal of a Jewish leader produced just weeks after the Bondi massacre has won the Archibald people’s choice category.‘Lack of understanding’ | The governor general, Sam Mostyn, has said that knowledge of how the country’s system of government operates is in steady decline and better civics education is needed.Liberals at war | The NSW Icac hearings continue to paint the party in a poor light – and the evidence so far has made Angus Taylor’s colleagues anxious.‘Kmart Keating’? | Ben Carroll’s rise to the premiership in Victoria means Labor’s right faction is in power for the first time since 2010. So where will he lead the state?Borrowed time | An Australian public library has had a book returned an estimated 150 years late after being found behind a wall during a home renovation. Continue reading...