A federal anti-corruption commission now appears to be a live option, thanks to the growing power of the crossbench in the House of Representatives, with legislation to establish a body that would investigate corruption likely to be introduced before Christmas.

Whatever deficits Bill Shorten may be accused of having as the alternative prime minister, ahead of next year's federal election, they are more than compensated by the professionalism and discipline of the Labor machine around him.

The government hopes that by extending tax incentives, and spending big on soil management and biosecurity, Australian farmers will recover from drought and the industry will be worth $100 billion by 2030.

The Sharks turn around a slow start to the year with a dominant performance by their forwards in a 42-16 win over the Raiders.

Federal Labor accuses the Coalition of bungling native title changes and breaching a deal struck between the major parties.