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The Party Room

English, Political, 1 season, 74 episodes, 1 day, 13 hours, 34 minutes
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Want to know what's really going on in Parliament House? Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas give you the political analysis that matters and explain what it means for you.
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Boats and border security

A political storm has broken out, after a boat with 40 asylum seekers landed in a remote section of the WA Coast. Opposition leader Peter Dutton has criticised the Government for being weak on border security, while the Prime Minster accused the Opposition leader of acting like a "cheer squad for people smugglers."And there's been a push for random drug and alcohol testing in Parliament. It follow the behaviour of two National Party members, but is that realistic? And Australia's surface naval fleet is being reshaped, but will the overhaul plug our capability gaps?David Crowe, Chief Political Correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.More InformationGot a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
2/22/202430 minutes
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Barnaby Joyce under scrutiny and a new push to Close the Gap

Footage of Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce lying on his back on a Canberra footpath, drunk and swearing into his phone has raised questions about the conduct of Parliamentarians, and his future in the party.And the Albanese Government tabled its Closing the Gap statement this week, with the Prime Minister condemning "inexcusable" findings on Indigenous disadvantage. So, how will the Government try to shift the dial?Narelda Jacobs,10 News First Midday and Afternoons Presenter joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.More InformationGot a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
2/15/202433 minutes
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Has the Albanese Government got its mojo back?

Parliament returned from summer break this week, and the Albanese Government has already managed to secure wins on some key policies.The Opposition conceded it wouldn't "stand in the way" of Labor's changes to stage 3 tax cuts. And after much negotiation, the Greens and Senate crossbencher David Pocock's agreed to support the Government's IR bill. Cameron Stewart, Chief International Correspondent at The Australian joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.More InformationGot a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
2/8/202432 minutes
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What's in store for politics in 2024?

The Albanese Government has returned from the summer break with a bang, announcing changes to the contentious stage 3 tax cuts. And while the redesign means a larger tax cut for over 11 million Australians, will the benefits outweigh a broken promise for voters?And what else can we expect from the political year ahead?David Speers, ABC Political lead and host of Insiders joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.David Speers, ABC Political lead and host of Insiders joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.More InformationGot a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
2/1/202434 minutes
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A tough end to the year for the Albanese Government

The Albanese Government has changed its position on a ceasefire in Gaza this week, signing the U.N. General Assembly resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire.The Opposition has criticised the move, suggesting the Government caved to "domestic pressure". And the government has ended the year at a low-point, but 2023 was really a year in two halves. So, how will Labor try and rebuild momentum in 2024?Karen Middleton, Chief Political Correspondent for The Saturday Paper joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas for the final The Party Room of 2023.More InformationGot a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
12/14/202337 minutes
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A policy packed final week of Parliament

Parliament is about to wrap for Christmas break, but not before the Albanese Government managed to pass its controversial Preventative Detention legislation. The passage of the bill comes after a messy couple-of-weeks for the Government, but will this be the reset they need?And the long-awaited NDIS Review has finally been released, so how will the Government look to futureproof the scheme?Charles Croucher, Chief Political Editor for Nine News joins Fran Kelly and Afternoon Briefing Host Greg Jennett on The Party Room.More InformationGot a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
12/7/202329 minutes, 52 seconds
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Albanese Government's midterm slump

As the end of the parliamentary year draws closer, cost of living pressures and recent political missteps are plaguing the Albanese Government.And Opposition leader Peter Dutton hasn't missed the opportunity to pounce, telling his partyroom he has a 'one-term' election strategy. So, is this just the standard first term slump for the government, or something different?Anna Henderson, Chief Political Correspondent at SBS World News joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
11/30/202326 minutes
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Albanese Government tries to mop up after a messy week

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has faced sustained pressure to disclose whether he confronted Chinese President Xi Jingping over a naval incident that saw Australian divers injured by a Chinese warship’s sonar.And the Government has attempted to seize back the domestic agenda and distract from the fallout, releasing a suite of new policies. But has it worked?Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent at The Conversation and Professorial fellow at the University of Canberra joined Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
11/23/202331 minutes
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Is the Opposition politically weaponising anti-Semitism?

As the Israel-Gaza war escalates, tensions are also intensifying in Australia. Opposition leader Peter Dutton has been critical of the Government’s response, while the Prime Minister has accused the Opposition leader of “weaponsing anti-Semitism”.And the Government is pushing through emergency legislation to deal with the fallout of the High Court’s decision that indefinite immigration detention was unlawful, which has already led to the release of 83 former detainees. But will that be enough?Cameron Stewart, Chief International Correspondent at the Australian joins Patricia Karvelas and David Speers on The Party Room
11/16/202328 minutes, 50 seconds
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Optus outage and interest rates bite

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's long awaited visit to China was largely overshadowed by domestic issues this week, with Optus experiencing a nationwide outage and the RBA lifting interest rates to a 12-year high.
11/9/202329 minutes, 23 seconds
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Government shifts language on Israel-Gaza war

As the Israel-Gaza war continues to escalate, there's been a subtle change in how the Australian Government is referring to the unfolding crisis.
11/2/202333 minutes
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Albanese in lockstep with Biden as Israel-Gaza war rages

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese met with US President Joe Biden in Washington, with the two leaders reinforcing bilateral and security ties. But can Australia further strengthen ties with the US, while also rebuilding its economic relationship with China? And the state visit came amidst the backdrop of the escalating Israel-Gaza conflict. So how are global tensions playing out in politics here at home? Peter Hartcher, Political and International Editor at the Sydney Morning Herald and the Age joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
10/26/202334 minutes
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Emerging tensions in Labor over Israel-Gaza war and the referendum fallout continues

Two Muslim federal Labor Ministers have spoken out against collective punishment of Palestinians while defending the right of Israel to retaliate against Hamas.
10/19/202332 minutes, 15 seconds
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Finger-pointing and soul-searching follow failed Voice referendum

After the Indigenous Voice referendum was voted down by the Australian public, the fallout from the majority No vote continues to play out in Canberra and across the country.
10/16/202335 minutes, 48 seconds
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Israel-Gaza war overshadows final days of Voice campaign

Amid the grief and horror of the Hamas terrorist attacks and Israel's retaliation, the federal opposition criticised the government's response, prompting the Prime Minister to accuse Peter Dutton of politicising the tragedy.
10/12/202331 minutes, 38 seconds
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The Voice Referendum Explained: The final countdown

With just days to go until the Referendum, Carly and Fran take a look at the campaign and what you need to know before you vote. We'll also outline the arguments we've heard from both sides about the vote.
10/10/202318 minutes, 19 seconds
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Migration system shakeup and referendum pre-polling opens

The Government has announced a crackdown on “grotesque abuses” and exploitation in the immigration visa system, focusing on migration agents and dodgy vocational education training centres who are rorting the system. And as the referendum on the Voice to Parliament draws closer, campaigning from both sides has ramped up. But with nearly one million Australians already casting their ballots at pre-polling, what messages are cutting through? Isabella Higgins, Indigenous Affairs reporter joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room. More Information Got a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
10/5/202334 minutes
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The Voice Referendum Explained: Will this referendum change the country?

There have been concerns about increased levels of racism during the campaign, particularly as the debate gets more heated and the date draws closer. So what will a yes or a no mean for reconciliation in this country? And how will the referendum be viewed overseas?
10/3/202315 minutes, 42 seconds
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Love and war: The two sides of the Voice campaign

Just over 2-weeks out from the Voice referendum, the leader of the No campaign Warren Mundine has labelled the Uluru Statement from the Heart "a declaration of war", while leading Yes campaigner Noel Pearson has spoken of love and "the pathway to peace".  And after nine-years in the top job, Dan Andrews has stepped down as the Premier of Victoria. He became a household name across the country, but what impact did he have on federal politics? John-Paul Janke, co-host of ‘The Point’ on NITV/SBS joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room. More Information Got a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
9/28/202332 minutes
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The Voice Referendum Explained: How will Indigenous people vote?

The Prime Minister says 80% of Indigenous people support the Voice, but where does that number come from? In this episode we take a closer look at what we know about how Indigenous people will vote. Also, some Indigenous people who are voting “No” say they want to see Treaty first. It’s not what we are voting on in this Referendum but throughout the campaign we’ve often heard about Treaty. So what would a treaty look like in the future and is it likely to happen?
9/26/202313 minutes, 30 seconds
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Politics turns nuclear

If Australia was to adopt the Coalition's demand to replace coal-fired power stations with nuclear, it would come with a $387 billion dollar price tag according to the Albanese government. But is nuclear energy really "a unicorn and a fantasy" for Australia? And with just over three-weeks until referendum day, is the tone of the Voice debate changing? Katharine Murphy, Political Editor at the Guardian Australia joins Fran Kelly and David Speers on The Party Room.
9/21/202327 minutes
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The Voice Referendum Explained - Misinformation and the referendum campaigns

There are all sorts of claims and down-right lies doing the rounds in the run up to the referendum. Misinformation and disinformation have become a huge issue in this campaign, with both sides accusing the other of either hiding the truth or spreading untruths.  In this episode, we look at how the campaigns are going and why false claims and fear seem to have taken hold over facts.
9/19/202314 minutes, 30 seconds
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Who won the political battle over housing?

The Government’s signature $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund has passed Parliament, after securing the support of the Greens. But with both sides claiming a victory, who was the real winner? And this week, Qantas lost its High Court appeal over the sacking of 1700 workers during the pandemic, with the Government jumping on the opportunity to distance itself from the embattled airline. Charles Croucher, Chief Political Editor at Nine joins Patricia Karvelas and David Speers on The Party Room.
9/14/202332 minutes
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The Voice Referendum Explained - Why most referendums fail

Australia has held 44 referendums since 1901, but only 8 of them have succeeded. So why are constitutional changes so unpopular? The polling science does provide some insight into why the bar is set so high for these campaigns, and a historical view gives us a hint of what may lay in store for the upcoming vote. Crucially, this episode also explains exactly what you can and can’t write on your ballot paper to make sure your vote is valid.
9/12/202313 minutes
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Albanese Government hits turbulence

Alan Joyces’ early departure from Qantas, hasn’t eased any of the political pressure piling on the Government. The Transport Minister has struggled to explain her decision to block Qatar Airways from increasing flights to Australia, while the Opposition has accused the Government of a crisis of transparency. Shane Wright, Senior Economics Correspondent with the Age and the Sydney Morning Herald joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
9/7/202328 minutes
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The Voice Referendum Explained - Can a Voice improve Indigenous lives?

There’s been plenty of focus on youth crime and disadvantage in Aboriginal communities this year,. How can we actually improve the lives of young Australians who are terribly over-represented in our justice system? In this episode, two Indigenous community leaders committed to making a difference explain their very different perspectives on the impact a Voice to Parliament could make on communities around the nation.
9/5/202314 minutes
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Voice referendum: What’s the Yes and No campaigns' strategy from here?

The Prime Minister has set the date for the referendum on the proposed Voice to Parliament, with campaigning set to ramp up from both sides. Anthony Albanese has urged Australians “not to close the door” on constitutional recognition, while the Opposition has continued to claim the proposal is divisive.  But what strategies will we see from both the Yes and No campaigns to get undecided voters over the line? Dana Morse, ABC Political Reporter joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room. More Information Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
8/31/202328 minutes
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The Voice Referendum Explained - Where did the Voice come from?

Many of the ideas for the Voice and the coming Referendum were shaped at a summit five years ago. But some of the major fights started there too. In 2017, Indigenous leaders from around the nation met at Uluru for a constitutional convention that sought to build consensus between communities on a journey towards constitutional recognition of Australia’s First Nations people. That convention resulted in the creation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, a crucial document that articulated a vision of a better future. But there was not unanimous support for this process at the summit, sparking many of the arguments within the Indigenous community that have persisted in the lead-up to the 2023 referendum. Find all episodes of The Voice Referendum explained on the Listen app
8/29/202312 minutes
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Why is the government ruling out major tax reform?

The latest Intergenerational Report has provided a snapshot of an older, less productive Australia in 40-years time. So, is it time to seriously consider big tax reform? And how does life experience inform the decisions politicians make? Annabel Crabb, Host of ABC’s Kitchen Cabinet joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
8/24/202331 minutes
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The Voice Referendum Explained - We have to vote. What are we voting for?

The last attempt to change Australia's constitution was 24 years ago and it failed miserably. So when we are all asked to vote later this year on the creation of an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, what are we voting for? What would a Voice actually do? And why is it so important? In this first episode of the ABC's new podcast series explaining the Indigenous Voice to Parliament Referendum, Fran Kelly and Carly Williams look at the question we will be asked to vote on, and the constitutional amendment itself. Find all episodes of The Voice Referendum explained on the Listen app
8/22/202316 minutes, 30 seconds
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Is the Government failing renters?

An additional $3.5 billion to boost housing supply and limiting rental increases to once every 12-months, were the key outcomes of the National Cabinet meeting this week.  But the Greens say the rental measures don't go far enough, describing them as "smoke and mirrors." Anna Henderson, SBS World News Chief Political Correspondent joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room. More Information Got a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
8/17/202326 minutes
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Housing and renters’ rights on National Cabinet agenda

Housing has been an ongoing pressure point for the Albanese Government. And next week, the Prime Minister will meet with state leaders at National Cabinet to secure action on housing supply and rental reforms, but what will we realistically see come from the meeting? And the Opposition has used Question Time to pepper the Government with questions over the proposed Voice to Parliament.  So, does the Coalition’s re-election strategy depend on the Voice failing? Phil Coorey, Political Editor at the Australian Financial Review joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on the Party Room.
8/10/202326 minutes
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Midterm malaise sets in for the Albanese Government

Parliament has returned after the mid-winter break, but the Government is still facing resistance from the Greens over its signature housing bill. So, just how real is the threat of a double dissolution election if the bill fails to pass the Senate for a second time? And the PM sought to deflect questions about the government’s commitment to Treaty, a key element of the Uluru Statement of the Heart, accusing the Opposition of trying to muddy the water over the Voice. Laura Tingle, Chief Political Correspondent for ABC’s 7.30  and Paul Karp, Chief Political Correspondent at the Guardian join Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
8/3/202329 minutes
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Inflation slows, but will the RBA still hike rates?

This week, the annual rate of inflation slowed to 6 per cent, down from the dizzying high of 7.8 per cent in December.  The rate was lower than economists had forecast and welcome news for households, businesses and the government. But what will it mean for the RBA’s decision on interest rates next month? And there are allegations government contractors provided suspect payments to Pacific politicians and officials involved in Australia’s offshore detention program in Nauru and PNG. Jacob Greber, Senior Correspondent with the Australian Financial Review joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
7/27/202328 minutes
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Voice pamphlet and the Liberal’s preselection woes

The official Voice to Parliament pamphlet has been released, with parliamentarians from both sides laying out the Yes and No case. But, the pamphlet isn’t fact checked, and there are already concerns the material contains misinformation. Meanwhile, Deputy Liberal leader Sussan Ley could face a serious preselection challenge in her seat of Farrer. So, what does it mean for the future of the Liberals, if the most senior female in the party is at risk of losing to another candidate? James Massola, National Affairs Editor at the Sydney Morning Herald and the Age joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
7/20/202327 minutes
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Robodebt fall-out and the PM’s NATO visit

A week after the Royal Commission’s Robodebt report was handed down, the fall-out is continuing. Calls are growing for former Prime Minister, Scott Morrison to step down from Parliament, while many want the ‘sealed section’ of the report made public. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been busy on sidelines of the NATO summit. He’s made some significant deals and announced an additional 30 Bushmaster vehicles for Ukraine. So, just how important was the visit for Australia’s national security? Karen Middleton, Chief Political Correspondent for the Saturday Paper joins Fran Kelly and David Speers on The Party Room.
7/13/202326 minutes, 55 seconds
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‘An unfair tool’: Are interest rates the only way to tame inflation?

The RBA hit pause on increasing interest rates for July, providing some reprieve for millions of households. But how else can inflation be tackled? And are we still moving towards a recession? And the Government has altered its strategy on the Voice to Parliament, outlining four priority policy areas for the body. But there’s also been a shift in the language around the campaign, with Peter Dutton decrying the "elites" on the Yes side, while Linda Burney warns of "Trump style politics" from the No camp. Ian Verrender, ABC Business Editor joins Fran Kelly and David Speers on The Party Room. More Information Got a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
7/6/202333 minutes
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Corruption scandals and an ADF 'garage clean-out' for Ukraine

On the eve of the new national integrity commission, two senior Liberals are embroiled in corruption scandals. The NSW ICAC has found former Premier Gladys Berejiklian engaged in serious corrupt conduct. The finding coincides with mounting allegations against former Federal Minister Stuart Robert who denies he helped a consulting firm secure lucrative government contracts. And as the world assesses the fallout from the aborted Wagner rebellion in Russia, Australia has announced more help for Ukraine. The $110 million package has been criticised by the Opposition as a "garage sale" of old equipment. So, are we being stingy and what does the Moscow insurrection mean for the war? Peter Hartcher, political and international editor at the Sydney Morning Herald joins Patricia Karvelas and David Speers on the Party Room.
6/29/202330 minutes
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‘Historic’ Voice referendum bill passes and Greens delay housing bill

The Greens and the Coalition have teamed up to delay the Albanese Government’s key housing bill. They say they want the government to provide more rental reform, but could the delay be the first step for the PM to trigger a double-dissolution election? And the Indigenous Voice referendum bill has passed Parliament, so what happens next?  Dana Morse, ABC Political Reporter joins Patricia Karvelas and David Speers on The Party Room
6/22/202338 minutes
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Does Dutton's Opposition strategy hinge on sinking the Voice?

Opposition leader Peter Dutton has intensified his language against the Voice to Parliament, suggesting the proposed body would "re-racialise" Australia. Is his leadership, and hopes to win the next election, dependant on the referendum failing? And this week India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Australia and received rockstar welcome. But did his visit really boost bilateral relations? Legendary journalist and political commentator, Niki Savva joins Patricia Karvelas and David Speers to unpack. More Information Got a burning political query? Send a voice recording in for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
5/25/202331 minutes
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Albanese's first year and Biden flakes on Oz

This weekend marks a year since Anthony Albanese defeated Scott Morrison at the election. 12-months on, what has Labor achieved in Government?  Meanwhile, turmoil at home has forced US President Joe Biden to postpone his trip Down Under. Charles Croucher, Chief Political Editor for 9News and former US Correspondent joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
5/18/202335 minutes
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Is Labor's Budget fair, and will it add to inflation?

This week, Treasurer Jim Chalmers handed down the Albanese Government's second Budget. And alongside a surprise $4 billion surplus,  it promised $14.6 billion in cost-of-living relief, which the Government claims won't add to inflation. The Opposition and the crossbench have been critical of the measures, so does the Budget provide enough for Australians? Danielle Wood, CEO of the Grattan Institute joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to crunch the numbers.
5/11/202335 minutes
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Surplus and other surprises: Budget 2023

In this bonus Budget special, Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly unpack the Albanese Government's second budget.
5/10/202318 minutes
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Vaping crackdown as the Budget looms

The countdown to Budget night is underway, and as the leaks flow, pressure is piling on the Albanese government to provide assistance for the most vulnerable. It comes as the Health Minister this week announced a crackdown on vaping, revealing a $234 million dollar plan to stamp out non-prescription vapes and prevent a new generation of nicotine addicts. David Crowe, Chief Political Correspondent with The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to unpack. More Information Follow The Party Room on the ABC Listen App or your favourite podcast app. Got a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
5/4/202329 minutes
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The motherload: Labor’s defence and single parent problem

Cracks are appearing in the Labor Party family, over welfare payments for single parents and other social security measures. Meanwhile, the Government has announced a new defence strategy, following a much anticipated review. So, with the Budget looming, how much will the Government fork out on these expensive measures? Cameron Stewart, Chief International Correspondent at The Australian joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to unpack.
4/27/202334 minutes
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RBA overhaul, Budget challenges and a shadow cabinet reshuffle

The RBA is set for a major shake-up, following the release of the first review into the central bank in decades. So what’s set to change? And with just over two weeks before the Federal Budget, the Albanese Government has a tricky challenge: how to help Australians struggling with the cost of living while managing inflation. Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent with The Conversation and Professorial Fellow at University of Canberra joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to unpack.
4/20/202329 minutes
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Are there factional fractures in the Liberal Party?

Former Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians Julian Leeser quit the Opposition frontbench, to actively campaign for the Voice to Parliament. His decision followed former high-profile Liberal Minister Ken Wyatt’s resignation from the Party, so does spell trouble for Opposition leader Peter Dutton? James Massola, National Affairs Editor at The Age & The Sydney Morning Herald joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to unpack.
4/13/202328 minutes
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Why is Peter Dutton saying No to the Voice?

After months of speculation, the Liberal Party has finally settled on a formal ‘No’ position on the Voice referendum. Peter Dutton will campaign against what he’s labelled a “voice to Canberra”, while Cape York Indigenous leader Noel Pearson has accused the Opposition Leader of a “Judas betrayal”. Anna Henderson, Chief Political Correspondent at SBS joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to unpack.   More Information Follow The Party Room on the ABC Listen App or your favourite podcast app. Got a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au 
4/6/202328 minutes
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Parliament pulls an all-nighter in a policy-packed week

It’s been a jam-packed final sitting week before the May budget, as the Albanese government attempts to push through a suite of legislation. Negotiations with the Greens and the crossbench have proved fruitful, but the government’s Housing bill remains a sticking point. Laura Tingle, Chief Political Correspondent at 7.30 joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to unpack
3/30/202332 minutes
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PM unveils the Voice referendum question. What’s next?

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has unveiled the wording of the referendum question on the proposed Indigenous Voice to Parliament. So, what does this mean for the referendum process, and what has the Opposition made of it? Clare Armstrong, National Political Editor at Newscorp joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room
3/23/202327 minutes
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Why are we spending $368 billion on submarines?

Anthony Albanese, alongside US President Joe Biden and UK PM Rishi Sunak, revealed the details of the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal this week. It’s the most expensive and ambitious project Australia has ever embarked on, but not everyone is on board with the plan and its $368 billion dollar price tag.
3/16/202334 minutes
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China, Subs and Penny Wong, live at WOMADelaide

The Party Room hosts Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas travel to Adelaide for a live recording at WOMADelaide, with special guest Foreign Minister Penny Wong and the Guardian’s Tory Shepherd joining them on stage.
3/14/202337 minutes
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When will the RBA hit ‘pause’ on rate rises?

This week, the Reserve Bank raised interest rates for the 10th consecutive time.  But now the RBA Governor Phillip Lowe has indicated that a “pause” in rate hikes could be on its way. ABC Business Editor Ian Verrender joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
3/9/202336 minutes
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Labor dares to meddle with superannuation

This week, the Albanese Government announced changes to tax concessions for Australians with more than $3 million dollars in superannuation. The Opposition has labelled the move a “broken election promise”.So, why has Labor taken this political risk? Host of Insiders, David Speers joins Patricia Karvelas to unpack.
3/2/202326 minutes, 46 seconds
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Spies, subs and superannuation

This week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used his National Press Club address to focus on national security and sovereignty. It followed revelations by ASIO boss Mike Burgess that Australia was experiencing more foreign interference and espionage than ever before.   And the government is facing a battle on another front, as they attempt to "end the super wars", by floating changes to superannuation. John Kehoe, Economics Editor at the Australian Financial Review joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
2/23/202331 minutes, 57 seconds
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The Party Room at Fair Day

In this live recording of The Party Room, hosts Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Minister for Aboriginal Australians, Linda Burney and Liberal Senator Andrew Bragg.
2/19/202340 minutes, 15 seconds
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RBA Boss grilled over rate hikes

The RBA governor Philip Lowe faced Senate Estimates this week, amidst high inflation and the prospect of more interest rate rises.  Meanwhile, the Albanese government is facing roadblocks when it comes to ensuring support for three big ticket items. They need support from the Greens: so, what concessions will they have to give? Shane Wright, Senior Economics Correspondent for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
2/16/202336 minutes
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More rates rises and Thorpe quits the Greens

As Parliament swings back into action for the first sitting week of 2023, the cost of living crisis has again taken centre stage. The RBA has handed down a ninth consecutive rate rise, and made it clear there are more on the way, so will the government be able to offer any relief? Political Editor at the Guardian Australia, Katharine Murphy joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
2/9/202335 minutes
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Debate on The Voice set to dominate Parliament

The Voice to Parliament is set to be the Albanese government’s big agenda item for 2023.
2/2/202338 minutes, 12 seconds
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A packed last sitting week for the government

It's been a big final sitting week in Parliament, with the government moving on an integrity commission, its industrial relations bill and its workplace harassment legislation. Plus, Scott Morrison became the first former prime minister to be censured. 7.30 chief political correspondent, Laura Tingle, joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly for her assessment of the government's first six months.
12/1/202241 minutes, 53 seconds
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Will there be a teal wave in the Victorian election?

Premier Daniel Andrews is bidding for a third successive term in Victorian state politics, but does Saturday's election have any federal implications? Plus, Guardian Australia political reporter Amy Remeikis joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to analyse the chances of the government's new industrial relations and integrity commission bills passing.
11/24/202234 minutes, 33 seconds
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When Albanese met Xi

It has been a huge week for Anthony Albanese on the world stage, but what does the meeting between Xi Jinping and the Prime Minister actually mean? Political and international editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Peter Hartcher, joins Patricia Karvelas and guest host David Speers to analyse the China-Australia relationship. Plus, The Party Room discusses Josh Frydenberg's pyjamas.
11/17/202231 minutes, 42 seconds
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How Labor claims it's going to increase your wages

The government says it needs to pass its new workplace relations bill as soon as possible to help get wages moving, but it’s hitting strong resistance from business groups and some independent MPs. Workplace editor for The Australian newspaper, Ewin Hannan, joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to discuss how the new laws would work and how likely they are to pass in their current form. Plus, the latest on the COP27 climate conference, the Medibank data leak, and Australia's relationship with China.
11/10/202233 minutes, 32 seconds
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Is a new big business scare campaign on the way?

The government faces the potential of a big business advertising campaign against their new industrial relations laws. But are they scared? Shane Wright, senior economics correspondent for the SMH and The Age joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly with his analysis. Plus, the latest on repatriations from Syria, the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, and COVID.
11/3/202237 minutes, 53 seconds
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A bread-and-butter budget, but where's the honey?

The Albanese government has handed down its first budget, which Treasurer Jim Chalmers has called "a difficult budget, for difficult times". With rising inflation, growing cost-of-living pressures and electricity costs forecast to increase by 56 per cent in the next two years, what support has the government offered Australians? Guardian Australia's editor Lenore Taylor joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to unpack Budget 2022.
10/27/202237 minutes, 6 seconds
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Is Australia heading towards a recession?

What does Labor need to do in its first post-election budget for it to be seen as a success? ABC Business Editor Ian Verrender joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly with his analysis. Plus, the Albanese government runs into trouble in the debate over Israel's capital.
10/20/202235 minutes, 7 seconds
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Australia looks to do more for Ukraine, as budget looms large

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is considering a request from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for more weapons, money and military training. Chief political correspondent for SMH and The Age, David Crowe, joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to analyse Australia's role in Ukraine’s conflict with Russia. Plus, the Labor government ponders structural economic changes before their first federal budget.
10/13/202237 minutes, 18 seconds
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What's the legacy of Julia Gillard's misogyny speech?

It's been 10 years since Julia Gillard delivered her famous 'misogyny speech' in federal parliament. Few political players realised the magnitude of the speech back then. But what's changed for women in Australia in the years since? Plus, the Australian Financial Review's Political Editor Phillip Coorey joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to analyse the government's plans to repatriate citizens stuck in Syria, and whether Labor will ditch the stage 3 tax cuts.
10/6/202241 minutes, 9 seconds
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Can you have a strong integrity commission without public hearings?

The Opposition has signalled its support for Labor's National Anti-Corruption Commission, welcoming the government's plan to keep hearings private, apart from under "exceptional circumstances". Plus, Guardian Australia's Josh Taylor joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to explain what the Optus data breach means for Australia's cybersecurity and privacy laws.
9/29/202232 minutes, 19 seconds
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Parliament, protocol and the PM's priorities

The PM says the Australian republic debate is off the table for this term of government, and a federal integrity commission may not be legislated this year. Parliament has been suspended... but there’s plenty still happening! Veteran press gallery journalist Malcolm Farr joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly with his analysis.
9/15/202229 minutes, 49 seconds
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Labor's tricky week in foreign affairs

The Albanese Government has come into the parliamentary week off the high of the jobs summit, but risks coming unstuck on foreign policy. Chief Political Correspondent for The Conversation, Michelle Grattan, joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly's party this week.
9/8/202234 minutes, 10 seconds
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Jobs summit, the Voice, and the Shaq attack

The Albanese Government's jobs and skills summit has kicked off in Canberra, but what does it mean for Australia? Guardian Australia's chief political correspondent, Sarah Martin, joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to explain why it matters. Plus, are the Greens talking down the Indigenous Voice to Parliament?
9/1/202237 minutes, 53 seconds
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Robodebt, the jobs summit and Morrison's portfolio saga continues

What’s Scott Morrison’s future after the secret ministries scandal? SBS World News Chief Political Correspondent, Anna Henderson, joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to give the Party Room her analysis on Robodebt, the impending jobs summit, and the portfolio scandal.
8/25/202237 minutes, 7 seconds
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Why did Scott Morrison pick up five extra portfolios?

Scott Morrison's secret portfolio scandal has shocked both sides of Australian politics this week. But why did the former PM pick up the five extra ministries? Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by news.com.au's Political Editor, Samantha Maiden, to discuss what the saga means for the country.
8/18/202240 minutes, 30 seconds