Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard denied that her government was in chaos, after the resignation of two of her most senior ministers prompted a Cabinet reshuffle ahead of a national election.

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard on Wednesday defended the police reaction to riots at the remote Christmas Island detention centre after "bean-bag bullets" and tear gas was used.

Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard on Wednesday dismissed as "stupid and wrong" a trade union leader's remarks that the September 11, 2001 terror attacks in the US were a conspiracy.