Heal rifts before anything else (5)

I believe the answer is:

first

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'before anything else' is the definition.
(synonyms)

'heal rifts' is the wordplay.
'rifts' anagrams to 'FIRST'.
However, I am not sure how the anagram is indicated.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for first that I've seen before include "Primary" , "Top degree class" , "Method used in elections" , ""Eclipse _____ ..." , "best" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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