Deals, barneys and melons

A deal on Labor's gambling bill is getting closer, as Anthony Albanese and Angus Taylor hold talks to thrash out a deal. But it seems there are still internal divisions in both Labor and the Coalition to work through before negotiations can be finalised. Meanwhile, Japan has dismissed the PM's podcast melon gaffe as "sensationalised" in a formal letter, but domestic politicians have been less forgiving. So, does Anthony Albanese have to "suck it up" and apologise? And South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has announced a Royal Commission into AI. So, how will it work — and what are the federal implications? Also, it's Census Day — so whether you're a "filler-inner" like Raf, or an enthusiastic observer like PK, it's a very important day that has big political and policy implications for the future. Patricia Karvelas and Raf Epstein break it all down on Politics Now. Got a burning question? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc...