A young couple in the prime of their lives missing from their Sydney flat, presumed dead, and a serving NSW police officer stands accused of their murders. A little over a week ago, flight attendant Luke Davies and AFL umpire Jesse Baird went missing. Their Paddington flat became a crime scene, and bloodied clothes were found in a rubbish bin just metres from a police station. Then the manhunt began for senior constable Beau Lamarre-Condon, Baird’s ex-boyfriend, who was later charged with two counts of murder after he finally handed himself in. Today, chief reporter Jordan Baker on the new details that have emerged in this shocking case as investigators continue their grim search for the bodies. And the broader issues at play, including the domestic violence allegedly committed by police.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Brad Banducci, the long-time CEO of Woolworths, gave an interview last week that made headlines, for all the wrong reasons, the fallout was swift. The company’s share price fell. The prime minister piled on, scrutinising the supermarket for a potential “abuse of power”.  The issue of price gouging and lack of supermarket competition has been in the spotlight for months now. But, to what end?  Today, business columnist Elizabeth Knight on whether we’re likely to see any reform from six upcoming government inquiries into this matter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Nationals MP Barnaby Joyce made headlines after he was filmed lying on a Canberra footpath, intoxicated, swearing into his phone. The video went viral - and questions began swirling about the culture of drinking in parliament. But that wasn’t the end of the saga.  This week, Nationals deputy leader Perin Davey has come under scrutiny for slurring her words at a recent parliamentary hearing. She admitted to having a couple of drinks beforehand, but has blamed her style of speech on a medical condition.  Regardless, the question remains - how big a problem is alcohol in parliament? Should booze bans be considered?      And if most of us can’t drink on the job - why can our politicians?  Plus, we talk about the political storm surrounding the asylum seekers who recently arrived on our shores - and whether turning back the boats still wins votes.  Today, federal political correspondent Paul Sakkal and chief political correspondent David Crowe discuss the week in politics.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Alexei Navalny died last week in a remote Arctic penal colony, many felt that it signified the death of hope for a future, democratic Russia. Because for nearly two decades, Navalny fought for fair elections, human rights, and freedom of speech; eventually rising to become Vladimir Putin’s most feared opponent. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher, on Navalny’s widow, Yulia Navalnaya, who has vowed to take over her late husband's work. And whether she will be able to unite the fractious democratic movement within Russia.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can Taylor Swift really be everything, to everybody?Way before the pop star took Melbourne by storm with three sparkle and tear-filled concerts, earlier this week, she captured the hearts of everyone from toddlers, to our prime minister, Anthony Albanese.Reserve Bank governor Michelle Bullock recently cited the scrambling for Swift tickets as a lesson in fiscal responsibility. And educators and leaders now use Swift to teach us everything from urban planning to legal principles.But, on the eve of Swift’s Sydney shows, which begin Friday, we have to ask: is there something about Taylor that’s led to her all-encompassing cultural relevance? Today, culture and lifestyle reporter Nell Geraets tells me about this. Or whether there’s a perfect storm, of sorts, at work here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been almost 14 years since Julian Assange started leaking the largest tranche of American military and government secrets to the world. For most of that time, the Wikileaks founder has been fighting extradition to the United States, where he faces a possible sentence of 175 years in jail, for crimes under the espionage act. But that struggle has reached a critical juncture. Because the High Court in London will decide, in a hearing being held today and tomorrow, whether Assange will be sent to the United States to face trial. Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe, on the “diplomatic cliff” that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is having to navigate, in order to bring an Australian citizen home.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Has North Korea declared war on South Korea? This is the question many have been left wondering, ever since North Korea’s  leader, Kim Jong Un declared last month that South Korea is its “principal enemy”.Kim may be an erratic and paranoid leader, who has pushed much of his country to starvation with his isolationist policies.But this change was historic, marking the abandonment of a policy, held for more than 50 years, that the countries were aiming for peaceful reunification.Today, North Asia correspondent Eryk Bagshaw and explainer reporter Jackson Graham on what has prompted this stark change of events. And whether a Donald Trump presidency could prompt Kim to escalate things even further.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How would you feel if details of your private chats, including your name, were released publicly, making you a target for attacks?  That is precisely what happened to a group of Jewish creatives whose Whatsapp chats were leaked last week.  In response the Albanese government has vowed to legislate against the practice of “doxxing” as it is called.  But is it even possible to make laws against this?  Plus, we talk about the PM’s engagement to his partner Jodie Haydon, Barnaby Joyce’s little lie down on a Canberra street, and the final episode of Nemesis. Today, we are joined by Dr Simon Copland from Australia National University, and as always, our chief political correspondent David Crowe, to discuss the week in politics.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

By the time you listen to this, Indonesia likely has a new president after the country held its much anticipated election on Wednesday. And who takes over Indonesia - the world’s third-largest democracy - after 10 years of relative democratic harmony under the hugely popular president Joko Widodo, gives Australians cause to pause. Today, International and political editor, Peter Hartcher, on whether the new leader might return Indonesia to the bad old days, when it was run by a fierce dictator. And what this could mean for Australia if they did.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When photographs and a video of politician Barnaby Joyce lying on a footpath late at night, seemingly incapacitated, went viral last week, it triggered a series of political explosions.Almost immediately, politicians started lobbing accusations. That the shadow minister for Veterans’ Affairs was undermining his party. And embarrassing the nation; even bringing the culture of parliament into disrepute.Today, national affairs editors James Massola on the political manoeuvring currently going on behind the scenes in Canberra, which could determine whether this incident spells the end of Barnaby Joyce’s long career. And the history of questionable behaviour, by our politicians.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When we think of where our tax dollars go, we aren't likely to imagine they’re being sent to companies that have been linked to suspected arms and drug smuggling, corruption or bribery. But this is what a new inquiry has found. Specifically, that multi-million dollar government contracts, for the offshore processing of asylum seekers, have been granted to companies that have been suspected of links to serious crimes. How could this happen? In the very government department - Home Affairs - that was created only seven years ago to unify our intelligence agencies, so they could function better?  Today, investigative reporter Nick McKenzie on the systemic failures that led to this situation. And what it will take - after two similar inquiries in the last year alone - to make sure it never happens again.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Australian citizen Yang Hengjun was given a suspended death sentence, last week, by a Beijing court, the Australian government recoiled, as though slapped. The details of the espionage that Yang has been accused of committing remain secret. But the ripple effect that this harrowing conviction is having on the relationship between Australia and China, is beginning to emerge. Today, North Asia correspondent Eryk Bagshaw on the tightrope that the Albanese government now has to walk, in order to fight China’s efforts at coercion, while struggling to free one of its own citizens.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This coming Monday, we will officially be relaunching our daily news podcast. It’s going to be called The Morning Edition, hosted by the dynamic Samantha Selinger-Morris. The podcast will drop in your feed at 5am each day. And we have two regular episodes: Peter Hartcher every Thursday, dissecting the biggest issues at home and abroad, while on Friday Jacqueline Maley and David Crowe take you behind the biggest stories in Canberra. Until then, have a listen to this short trailer, which gives you a sense of what The Morning Edition is all about.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After weeks of lamenting the Prime Minister’s broken promise, the Coalition has decided it will vote for Labor’s changes to the Stage Three tax cuts.  The Coalition says it will match Labor on tax and more.  Will this tax-war turn into a proper go at tax reform?  Plus, we talk about Nemesis, the three-part ABC documentary on the leadership ructions of the former Coalition government. Did we learn anything new from the documentary? And how did the major players come emerge from the revelations made in it?  Spoiler alert: not very well. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Biden administration is, many Australians believe, a leader that is supportive of Australia. We share similar values. Not to mention deep defensive and security co-operation, and extensive trade and investment. But, over the last few months, the American political system has become so dysfunctional that it’s in danger of acting against its own interests. Which could, in turn, threaten us, too. Today, our international and political editor Peter Hartcher on why the usual chaos in American congress that we have often witnessed from afar, might come to impact us for a long time to come.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ross Gittins, the longest continuously serving columnist in The Sydney Morning Herald’s 193-year history, is celebrating his 50th anniversary of writing for our mastheads, today. Over the last 50 years, he’s covered 50 federal budgets, 19 federal elections, 11 prime ministers, and 16 treasurers. He’s seen promises made and broken - and the economic reality of Australians change immeasurably. Ross was, after all, around to write about the time when the price of eggs, bread and petrol were all set by the state government. Today, he joins me to discuss how life has improved - and worsened - over the last 50 years, as a result of our economic policies. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Albanese government has finally released its plans to curb motor vehicle pollution. This is crucial for the government, as Labor won the 2022 election on a promise of climate policy reforms. But the proposal also puts a spotlight on just how behind Australia is in reducing carbon emissions. We are reportedly the last developed country, other than Russia, to impose pollution caps on motor vehicles. So, why are we so behind? And what will it take for the Labor government to successfully legislate its policy?  Today, climate and energy correspondent Mike Foley on what this new plan will mean for drivers. And how much opposition Labor is facing on a policy that is arguably central to its hold on power.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was the late 1970s, and members of the NSW police force were tapping phones, illegally, in the hopes of cracking down on organised crime. The sorts of people they had in their sights were well-known underworld figures, like Abe Saffron, known as “Mr Sin”, and drug boss Robert Trimbole. But what they stumbled upon instead, shocked them. Conversations between a high court justice and his well-placed friends that would implicate the judge, Lionel Murphy, for years, in corruption allegations.  Today, Lindsay Murdoch, one of the two journalists who broke this story for The Age, on the secret tapes that unleashed one of the most controversial political sagas of the 1980s.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the Albanese government announced its controversial changes to the stage 3 tax cuts last week, the Opposition denounced the Prime Minister for breaking a promise. But legislation will be introduced next week to implement the changes, and the Opposition will have to decide whether or not it will support them or not.  The tricky part is that Labor’s tax changes will deliver a larger tax cut to more voters, which is a hard proposition to argue against.  Plus, federal political staffers and their importance to the messaging of the government.  Joining Jacqueline Maley on Inside Politics is chief political correspondent David Crowe and federal political correspondent Paul Sakkal. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was exactly three years ago today that Myanmar’s military seized power in a coup d’etat, toppling the democratic government. Since then, the junta has killed and imprisoned its opponents, and attacked innocent civilians - all in the name of consolidating power. It’s a devastating state of affairs that has led Myanmar to become an international business pariah. Many Western democracies have placed sanctions on the country, barring companies from investing there. But Australia’s efforts at imposing sanctions against Myanmar’s military have paled in comparison. Today, business reporter Sumeyya Ilanbey on why Australian companies, while not breaching Australian sanctions, have been accused of propping up Myanmar’s brutal military dictatorship. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a militia, believed to be backed by Iran - killed three American soldiers, in Jordan, over the weekend, it marked a dangerous new development in the war in the Middle East.  It was the first time, in the more than three months since Hamas launched its attack on Israel, that any American troops had died from hostile fire in the conflict.  So, could this tip the United States into a full-blown war with Iran? It’s a situation that American president Joe Biden has been actively avoiding since October 7.  Today, political and international editor Peter Hartcher on the factors that could push Biden to take this step. And the global mayhem that could result, if he does.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been nearly six weeks since journalist Antoinette Lattouf was sacked from the ABC. How did a short contract, that was only ever meant to last for five days, turn into a full-blown cultural reckoning? Because it’s not just the national broadcaster that has been plunged into turmoil. Today, media reporter Calum Jaspan on how this scandal saga has exposed questions about free speech and workers’ rights. And whether journalists have any business performing the role of activists.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The United States is in the grip of a migration crisis unlike it’s ever seen before. The seemingly never-ending flow of migrants into New York, Chicago and Denver has - according to those cities’ mayors - pushed their areas to breaking point.  The migrants themselves, bussed in from the border with Mexico, often end up in foreign cities without any assistance; injured, unwell and ill-prepared for freezing winter temperatures. And for president Joe Biden, these historic migration levels during an election year are a political nightmare. Today, digital foreign editor Chris Zappone on what impact this crisis could have on Biden’s election bid. And why it’s hampering his attempts to give aid to Ukraine.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to the stage 3 tax cuts, voters will judge for themselves.  We learned this week that the Albanese government will break its oft-repeated promise not to change the stage 3 cuts - which gives tax back to high income earners.  Instead, it will redirect some of those cuts to middle-income earners - those earning up to $150,000. The overall impact on the federal budget will be broadly the same, according to Treasurer Jim Chalmers.  So will voters let Labor off a broken promise if it means more money in their pocket? Or will they take the money but still mark Albanese down for going back on his word?  Plus, who is Kim Williams, the new ABC Chair announced this week by the Prime Minister?  And, we look briefly back on the controversial legacy of the former prime minister Scott Morrison, who announced his retirement from politics this week.  Joining Jacqueline Maley on Inside Politics is chief political correspondent David Crowe, and newly appointed national affairs editor Andrew Probyn. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday, Donald Trump won the Republican primary election in New Hampshire. He beat his only remaining rival, Nikki Haley, and with this victory, Trump declared that he is now his party’s presidential nominee. This status won’t actually be made official until the Republican National Convention in July. But one thing is for sure, Trump is now one giant step closer to returning to the White House. Today, Bruce Wolpe, senior fellow at the United States Studies Centre, on whether Nikki Haley could still be a threat to Trump. And whether the multiple charges Trump faces will stop his presidential bid.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Roger Rogerson died over the weekend, many people celebrated the end of an era. Gone are the days, they said, when the NSW police force was so corrupt, it offered priority parking at police headquarters to the select gangsters with whom it was in cahoots. Because Rogerson, once a celebrated police detective, was arguably the most corrupt of them all. He gave the green light to criminals to commit crimes, in return for wads of cash. By palling around with notorious hit men, and in one case, murdering a drug dealer who stood in his way, Rogerson has become as intrinsic a part of Australian crime folklore as Ned Kelly and Mark ‘Chopper’ Read.  Today, chief investigative reporter Kate McClymont on why it took decades to jail Rogerson. And whether our police system will ever likely breed another cop as corrupt as him.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For years now, we’ve been hearing about the so-called Stage 3 Tax Cuts. And not just hearing about them, but being warned about them. They’re going to increase the gap between the rich and the poor. Even take us back, economically speaking, to the 1950s. At other times, we’re told they’re great. After all, they’ll help workers earning as little as $45,000 a year to keep more of their pay packet.  So, which is it?  Today, economics correspondent Rachel Clun takes us through what this all means, and how it will hit us, once we open our wallets.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Pope Francis remarked in a speech earlier this month that surrogate motherhood was a “despicable practice” that should be universally banned, for some, it signalled a backwards step for the Catholic Church. Only weeks earlier, the global religious leader had allowed same-sex couples to finally receive the blessings of a priest. But before we write off the pope’s most recent comments, we have to ask ourselves: does he have a point? Today, surrogate and surrogacy lawyer Sarah Jefford on the ethical minefields, and joys, of surrogacy. And former religion editor and centre for public christianity’s Barney Zwartz on what we should know of the pope’s statement.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Albanese government has announced a review into the Food and Grocery Code of Conduct. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says all options are on the table to force supermarkets to ease cost of living pressures on consumers. Even the option of significant government intervention.  Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Penny Wong copped criticism for her itinerary on her visit to Israel, representing Australia.  And the Chinese Ambassador gave an interesting press conference in Canberra which took an interesting turn… Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe, economics correspondent Rachel Clun and foreign affairs correspondent Matthew Knott join Jacqueline Maley on Inside Politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re getting the feeling that more and more Australians have fallen prey to cyber attackers recently, there’s a reason for that. The number of hacks has recently grown by 300 per cent in the period of just 12 months. And the devastation to Australians is multifold. Some have lost tens of thousands of dollars. Others have had deeply private information - including intimate health details, and court testimony they thought was given anonymously - exposed to the world. Today, technology editor David Swan on who is committing these attacks, and why. And what Australians need to know, to avoid falling victim to one.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the weekend, Taiwan elected a new president. This was a race that was watched incredibly closely by leaders in Washington and Canberra, for the ripple effect that it will have on so much of the world. Because the president-elect, Lai Ching-te, is precisely the person China didn’t want to win. His campaign was centered on attacks against Beijing, and its plans to unify with the island.  So, will Taiwan’s new president bring his nation closer to “war and decline”, as China has claimed?  Today, North Asia correspondent Eryk Bagshaw, on why what happens on a small island half the size of Scotland has the power to affect not only the global economy, but the safety of millions.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are now more than 100 days into the war between Israel and Gaza. And as the suffering in Gaza continues to grow - with reports of famine and disease - so too, does the fear that the conflict has gained a new and worrying momentum. Do the attacks by the United States and the United Kingdom last week on Houthi rebels in Yemen mean we've passed a point of no return with regards to where this conflict could spread? Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent, Matthew Knott, on how far this escalation could go. And Israel’s latest challenge - defending itself against allegations of genocide in The Hague.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government is reviewing the supermarket code of conduct over concerns about the gap between food prices charged by big supermarkets and those paid to farmers.  While a separate senate inquiry will examine alleged price gouging by Coles and Woolworths in coming months. Supermarkets have denied accusations of profiteering and say they’re experiencing economy-wide inflationary pressures.  Today, business columnist Elizabeth Knight what an inquiry may be able to tell us.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Victorian government is stuck in limbo after its proposal for a wind turbine production terminal was rejected by federal environment minister Tanya Plibersek who argued the development would harm globally significant wetlands. The dispute is the latest from a growing list of community and environmental group opposition to offshore wind farms along Australia’s east coast.  Today, climate and energy correspondent Mike Foley, on how we reconcile both the development of a renewable energy grid, and the preservation of Australia’s critical wildlife and habitat.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A plane door ripping open mid-flight, leaving a gaping hole thousands of metres above sea level is usually the stuff of nightmares or blockbuster Hollywood movies. But for those on Alaska Airlines flight 1282 last week, that became a reality. The flight made an emergency return to Portland, where 171 passengers and six crew landed safely. But the incident caused air safety investigations all over the world to probe whether there may be issues with other Boeing aircraft in operation.  Today, aviation reporter Amelia McGuire on what caused the hole in the Alaska Airlines flight and whether Australians have anything to worry about. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re days away from the first Republican primary, where in Iowa, Republican party members will nominate their chosen presidential candidate for 2024. Polls place Donald Trump as the overwhelming front-runner to become the Republican presidential nominee, but Maine and Colorado have found Trump ineligible to run, with challenges pending across the country. Today, North American correspondent Farrah Tomazin on the Supreme Court ruling on a civil war era provision that could bar Trump from running for presidential nominee.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Australia’s lead batsman and first Muslim player Usman Khawaja sought to express his politics on the field, his team and even the prime minister rallied behind him, but he was ultimately reprimanded for it.  Khawaja wore a black armband during the first Test against Pakistan in Perth in a personal gesture of mourning for children killed in Gaza during the Israel-Hamas conflict. That was after being rejected for wearing shoes with the words ‘All lives are equal’ and ‘Freedom is a human right’ in the colours of the Palestinian flag. Today, chief cricket writer Daniel Brettig on whether sport and politics can ever be separate. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Demand for medicinal cannabis in Australia has sky-rocketed since its legalisation in 2016.   Same-day telehealth consultations are a quick google search away. Cannabis dispensaries are popping up in major cities across the country.  And while medical cannabis is helping people with conditions ranging from chronic pain and anxiety, to cancer and migraines, concerns are being raised about how the industry is operating.  Today, chief reporter Jordan Baker on whether doctors have their patients best interests at heart.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you an episode from our archive. Who robbed the British Museum? And how did they get away with it for so long? The news that the world’s largest, and arguably most prestigious, history museum was robbed made global headlines. It’s no wonder. It’s home to, among other precious artefacts, the Rosetta Stone. As in, the stone that was originally discovered by Napoleon’s soldiers, and later taught the world, for the first time, how to read Egyptian hieroglyphs.  So, just what was stolen? And how? On this episode, Europe correspondent Rob Harris, on the curious tale of the British Museum’s disappearing collection. This episode first aired on August 28, 2023.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you an episode from our archive. In November 2020, a damning report about Australia’s Defence Force was published. Known as the Brereton report - it found credible evidence that our Defence Force had committed war crimes. This investigation shocked the nation, and led to a reckoning within our Defence Force - and the public’s perception of it. And there was one woman - Samantha Crompvoets - whose research kicked off the whole thing. But in doing so, she has had to pay a hefty price.  On this episode, Samantha tells us about that story, and why telling the truth came at such a cost.  This episode contains mentions of suicide. This episode first aired on July 6, 2023.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you an episode from our archive. Over the last couple of months, Sydney’s streets have been plagued by murder after murder. They’re a byproduct of turf warfare, linked to the lucrative cocaine trade. We’ve seen this carnage before, in various parts of NSW. But we’re now in the midst of an unprecedented cocaine boom. And experts have warned that the violence it attracts is likely to grow rather than recede. On this episode, chief reporter Jordan Baker on what’s behind these latest killings. And why Sydney, more than anywhere else in the world, loves cocaine. This episode first aired on August 7, 2023.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you an episode from our archive. For nearly 50 years, women in the United States were protected, by federal law, from having to carry an unwanted pregnancy. They gained this right, in 1973, thanks to the historic Supreme Court judgement in the Roe v Wade case.  This held until nearly a year ago, when the current Supreme Court overturned that judgement. This weekend marks the one year anniversary of that groundbreaking decision.  So, what has life in the United States been like for women since then?  On this episode, North American correspondent Farrah Tomazin on how this decision has caused a seismic shift in American culture and its political landscape. This episode first aired on June 22, 2023.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you an episode from our archive. Most Australians know the name Lindy Chamberlain. She’s famously the victim of what’s been called “the most notorious miscarriage of justice” in Australian legal history. She was wrongfully convicted of murdering her nine-week old daughter, Azaria, during a camping trip at Uluru, and sentenced to life in prison.But how many people know about the murder conviction inquiry that’s going on right now that could, as one expert put it recently, make the Chamberlain case pale into insignificance?On this episode, legal affairs reporter for The Sydney Morning Herald, Michaela Whitbourn, on the inquiry that could change the way our legal system handles evidence in murder trials. And why the diaries of Newcastle mother Kathleen Folbigg, which were once used to help convict her of murder, might now be the very thing to set her free.This episode first aired on March 30, 2023.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you an episode from our archive. In May 2023, Stan Grant announced that he would be leaving the ABC and standing down as the host of its Q+A program. His decision, and the torrent of abuse that prompted it, has led to a reckoning about how responsible the media is for the racism that pervades our culture. On this episode, culture news editor Osman Faruqi joins Samantha Selinger-Morris to discuss Stan Grant, the ABC and Australia's racism problem. This episode first aired on May 24, 2023.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you an episode from our archive. A jury has found Malka Leifer guilty of rape and indecent assault, drawing a close to a trial that had been a decade in the making. The former principal of the ultra-orthodox Jewish school had been accused of sexually abusing former students in Melbourne in the early to mid-2000s. After a lengthy battle to extradite Leifer from Israel in 2021, her trial began this year. She has maintained her innocence and pleaded not guilty to all charges, including rape. On this episode, court reporter at The Age, David Estcourt on the trial of Malka Leifer. This episode first aired on April 6, 2023.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you an episode from our archive. Australia's Home Affairs Department used vast sums of taxpayer money to fund suspect payments to powerful Pacific Island politicians, specifically to run offshore processing of asylum seekers on Nauru and Manus Island. A major investigation by The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald has found a secret money trail beginning in Home Affairs coffers and ending with payments to bank accounts controlled by powerful Pacific Island politicians. The payments were made by companies engaged by the government to run the facilities: in Nauru, two companies called Broadspectrum and Canstruct, and on Manus Island, a company called Paladin and were for services to help run the facility.   The Pacific payments scandal forms a part of a much larger problem within the Home Affairs department. Because while focusing on housing boat arrivals offshore, Home Affairs has taken attention away from its core business of helping legitimate migrants arrive and expelling the rest. We are not suggesting that any payments were in fact bribes, which is ultimately something that can only be proven by a court. But the deals raise integrity concerns that warrant significant scrutiny by the Department. On this episode, investigative journalists Nick McKenzie and Michael Bachelard on how our Home Affairs Department is failing. Read more on our Home Truths series here.  This episode first aired on July 25, 2023.  Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you an episode from our archive. They stand largely empty, hiding in plain sight, their little-used classrooms scattered through office buildings in cities across the country. In the exploding foreign education industry, they call them ‘ghost colleges’. These colleges are supposed to be providing tens of thousands of international students with an education. But in reality, many of them are near deserted. On this episode, investigative reporter Clay Lucas joins Samantha Selinger-Morris to talk about his months-long investigation into the rise of Australia’s ghost colleges, and what they tell us about our immigration system. This episode first aired on August 22, 2023.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, we're bringing you an episode from our archive. It’s been 17 years since Julian Assange created Wikileaks, the online publisher of classified documents that has changed politics forever. For eleven of those years, Assange has either been in hiding, or in prison. But why is Assange still in prison? When American whistleblower, Chelsea Manning, who was sentenced to 35 years for leaking secret government files to Wikileaks, has already been set free? On this episode, foreign affairs and national security correspondent Matthew Knott on the unusual group of Australian politicians who visited Washington, in a bid to finally free Assange. And whether his fate will ultimately be determined by whoever holds the American presidency. This episode first aired on September 18, 2023.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It has been a busy year in Australian politics.  We voted no to the Voice to Parliament. Three state premiers resigned. The government legislated industrial relations changes and housing affordability measures.  But the throughline of the year, and the main concern of ordinary voters, was the state of the economy, and the government’s handling of it.  We had the scourge of stubborn inflation and the RBA’s ratcheting up of interest rates. And we had a housing affordability problem that politicians have finally acknowledged is actually a crisis. Today on Inside Politics, economics reporters Shane Wright and Rachel Clun join Jacqueline Maley to talk about the economy, and what we might expect of it in 2024. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have been bystanders to the saga of the Bruce Lehrmann and Brittany Higgins case for nearly three years now. If one thing has defined the devastating set of lawsuits, it’s been a lack of definitive answers about allegations that a rape occurred in the office of then-defence industry minister, Linda Reynolds. And whether the government at the time orchestrated a cover-up. Lehrmann has always strenuously denied raping Higgins, insisting that the pair had no sexual contact at all. Today, associate editor and special writer Deborah Snow on what this case has exposed about the political cultures and institutions that it has also put on trial.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Back in April, the Democrats officially chose Joe Biden to run for the American presidency next year, because he could beat Donald Trump. But that was then.Since then, Biden’s approval has begun to tank. And voters of all stripes have reportedly been clutching their foreheads in despair. These are the candidates? An 81-year-old, and a would-be criminal with a fondness for quoting Hitler?Bruce Wolpe, who served on the Democratic staff in the US Congress during President Barack Obama’s first term, has been analysing American presidential elections for decades.Today, Bruce, who’s also a senior fellow at The United States Studies Centre, joins me to discuss what history can tell us about who might win. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When an Australian company called Phoslock first hit the market, its sell was hard to resist. Phoslock had created an innovative clay product that had the power to get rid of pollution in waterways around the world.  But a new investigation reveals a host of worrying allegations against the company including suspected bribery, money paid to dump polluted water and an alleged cover-up of a wrongful death. Today, investigative reporter Nick McKenzie on the suspect behaviours that led to Phoslock’s alleged wrongdoings and how they remained a secret for so long.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a real-life Succession saga. And it’s taking place right on our doorstep. We’re talking, of course, about the civil lawsuit that Australia’s richest person, Gina Rinehart, is embroiled in, with two other families. Not to mention two of her own children. They are all battling over more than a billion dollars in royalties from iron ore mines that her father discovered back in the 1950s. Is the fight worth it? The cost for Rinehart, even if she wins, could still be high.  Because for years, the mining magnate has been fighting another, competing, battle: to keep her tricky and sometimes fractious relationships with her own family members out of the public eye. Today, WA Today journalist Jesinta Burton on what this marathon court case has revealed about one of Australia’s most secretive families.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a real-life Succession saga. And it’s taking place right on our doorstep. We’re talking, of course, about the civil lawsuit that Australia’s richest person, Gina Rinehart, is embroiled in, with two other families. Not to mention two of her own children. They are all battling over more than a billion dollars in royalties from iron ore mines that her father discovered back in the 1950s. Is the fight worth it? The cost for Rinehart, even if she wins, could still be high.  Because for years, the mining magnate has been fighting another, competing, battle: to keep her tricky and sometimes fractious relationships with her own family members out of the public eye. Today, WA Today journalist Jesinta Burton on what this marathon court case has revealed about one of Australia’s most secretive families.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday we brought you part one of an investigation into one of the Black Summer bushfires, which was the result of a backburn lit by the NSW Rural Fire Service, and the search for answers as to why it escaped.  Today, investigative reporter Harriet Alexander takes you inside the decisions that led to the backburn, from the phone hook-up where the fateful call was made to bring it forward, to the moment the fire got out of control. We also explore why the RFS has been reluctant to talk about it. This is episode two: From the inside.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this two-part series, we look at a backburn that got out of control during the Black Summer fires of 2019-20. Investigative reporter Harriet Alexander looks at what went wrong. How the backburn escaped and destroyed a large part of the upper Blue Mountains. And the subsequent battle by locals to find out what happened. This is episode one: From the outside.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the United Nations headquarters in Midtown Manhattan on Wednesday, Australia voted in favour of a United Nations resolution calling for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.  The UN vote coincided with a separate development in Australia’s position on Gaza.  Prime Minister Anthony Albanese joined with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to issue a statement supporting a pause in the fighting in Gaza and efforts towards a sustainable ceasefire.  Both these moves - the statement and the ceasefire motion - were a break from the position of our powerful allies, the United States and the United Kingdom. Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe and foreign affairs correspondent Matthew Knott join Jacqueline Maley on Inside Politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For months, Melbourne’s underworld has been plagued by escalating violence. Bashings, a public execution, even the desecration of the grave of one crime boss’ sister. Firebombings have also become increasingly common, whereby shops are set alight and gutted by flames. One of the main targets: tobacco stores. So many have been hit, that a new era of gangland warfare in Melbourne has gained its own moniker: the “tobacco wars”.For more than eight years, my colleague, law and justice editor Chris Vedelago has been following one of the men who is understood to be at the centre of these wars. Because of suppression orders put in place by a court, his identity and actions could never be released. Until now. Today, Chris Vedelago joins Sam to discuss the rise of Kazem Hamad - and the illegal tobacco trade fuelling Melbourne’s underworld violence.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is our foreign minister about to jump ship? So went the rumours, recently, around the press gallery, in Canberra. Elsewhere, too, people have tried to diminish Penny Wong. The fact that she hasn’t  visited the Middle East, since she landed the job of foreign minister, 18 months ago? It’s just not good enough, according to the opposition. And why isn't she doing more to broker peace in the Middle East? But for a staggering amount of ordinary Australians, Penny Wong is something of a unicorn. Not only one of the most highly regarded politicians in the country. But someone whom they would happily have mind their children. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher, on what accounts for the great divide between public and political judgement, when it comes to Penny Wong. And what drives the second most powerful person in our country.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For decades, radio broadcaster Alan Jones was king of the airwaves. Often using a bullying and vitriolic tone on his show, he held powerful figures up to scrutiny. And even while rumours about questionable behaviour towards young men swirled over the years, Alan Jones remained one of the most influential and feared figures in the country. Now, a major investigation can reveal allegations that Jones used his position of power to prey on a number of young men; allegedly indecently assaulting, groping or inappropriately touching them without their consent. Jones has strenuously denied the allegations. Today, chief investigative reporter Kate McClymont on her years-long investigation into Alan Jones — and what it says about our wider culture that he's being held to account now.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Treaty of Waitangi is New Zealand’s founding document, an agreement between the Crown and Maori tribes, sets out the rights and political power of the Maori people. But now, a massive unravelling is taking place, with a new coalition government pushing to reinterpret the country’s founding document. Since taking office in October, the National, Act and New Zealand First parties have scrapped a world-leading smoking ban and plan to roll-back use of Maori language.  Today, political editor for New Zealand publication Stuff, Luke Malpass, on the most far-right government in New Zealand since the 1980s. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week the government struggled to manage its response to the High Court’s landmark November ruling, that indefinite detention is illegal.  As a result of the decision, about 150 non-citizens have been released from custody, and this week it emerged that four of them have allegedly reoffended since their release. This includes a former detainee and convicted multiple rapist who was arrested on an indecent assault charge, and another man, a registered sex offender, who was arrested on charges of contacting a child online.  So how badly have Albanese and his ministers been damaged by this debacle? And does the mismanagement of this issue indicate broader incompetence within the government as it reaches the mid-point of its term?  Chief political correspondent David Crowe and national affairs editor James Massola join Jacqueline Maley on Inside Politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imagine that you find out that the person you thought was a doctor - a surgeon who operated on you - didn’t have a medical degree. This is the case for all podiatric surgeons in Australia, practitioners who can legally pick up a knife with only a podiatry or science degree. Maybe that’s fine if the issue you had with your foot, or ankle, was fixed. But, a joint investigation by The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes, has uncovered dozens of allegations of surgeries gone wrong by a small, but controversial group of practitioners. Today, investigative reporter Charlotte Grieve on the former patients of podiatric surgeons and the suffering they have endured, and the alleged health industry failures that have led to it.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Has Australia started an arms race with China? It’s a question that is sometimes lobbed at Australia’s defence community. Consider the facts, on the surface. Australia entered a pact with the United States and the United Kingdom, two years ago, that will give Australia its first nuclear-powered submarines. And now we’re reading about how China is readying its naval fleet to welcome not just nuclear-powered submarines, but nuclear armed submarines. But, says International and Political editor Peter Hartcher, to read the facts in this way is to completely misunderstand reality. Today, Peter joins Sam to discuss how these new submarines alter the global balance of power. And why most of us haven’t heard about them, until now. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Honiara is a small city just three hours by plane from Australia, where many of the locals struggle on a daily basis. They grapple with poverty, crime, and unemployment. Some health care centres in town are breaking down; others are running out of paracetamol. This, even though Chinese state-backed companies are investing hundreds of millions of dollars into the Solomon Islands. As one landowner said of Chinese investors who are failing to fulfil their promises to the locals: “They are treating us like animals.”  Today, North Asia correspondent Eryk Bagshaw on how the locals are suffering, now that China has become the new power player in the Pacific. And what threat this could pose to Australia.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It has been called the world's biggest ever cryptocurrency ponzi scheme.  The scheme, allegedly the work of South African con artist Johannes Steynberg, is estimated to have scammed $2.6 billion from consumers worldwide.  But it’s the details behind the figures that read like something out of a Netflix special. Like how the alleged conman escaped to South America, to be with his mistress, and evade authorities. And the angry investors who became citizen investigators, and helped the authorities to hunt down Steynberg. Today, business reporter Sarah Danckert on what enabled this scheme to spread like wildfire, and the nearly 9,000 Australians who became caught up in it.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this month the High Court overturned 20 years of precedent, ruling that indefinite immigration detention was unlawful. It led to the immediate release of dozens of people. Some murderers, some sex offenders, and others who had failed on character grounds to remain in Australia - but none of them could be returned to their home countries. Since that November 8 court ruling, the federal government has been scrambling to find a solution, rushing through legislation to impose tough restrictions on the people who were released. Now the High Court’s full decision has been released, the government is facing political pressure from the Coalition to pass new laws that would redetain the worst offenders, in the last few parliamentary sitting days of the year. Today, University of Canberra constitutional and citizenship law expert Professor Kim Rubenstein and chief political correspondent David Crowe on where to next for the government on indefinite immigration detention.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Bruce Lehrmann took the stand for the first day of his defamation trial against Network Ten and journalist Lisa Wilkinson. The former Liberal staffer is suing the network, and Wilkinson, for what he says are their allegations in a television interview that he raped his former colleague, Brittany Higgins, in Parliament House in 2019. Lehrmann has always strenuously denied the allegations against him. Today, legal affairs reporter Michaela Whitbourn on what the court case has revealed about Lehrmann’s changing story with what happened that night in Parliament House, and the continuing fallout from one of the most damaging political sagas in modern Australian history. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re now eight weeks into the deadly war between Israel and Hamas. And one question looms large. What is Hamas’ goal? And who does it serve? The narrative surrounding this vital question has changed many times over the last 35 years. The group has long been viewed by the States, the European Union and others as a terrorist organisation. But a perception of Hamas as freedom fighters has been growing steadily.  Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on how Hamas has sold this image of itself to the world. And what its goal has been, since day one.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s now the fourth day of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.  Dozens of hostages have been released from Gaza, in exchange for the release of more than 100 imprisoned Palestinians in Israel.  But what has the hostages' experience in captivity been like? How are they now? And does this extraordinary turn of events - the first pause in almost two months of fighting - signal a greater change in the conflict? Today, national correspondent Matthew Knott on what the loved ones of hostages have told him about their experiences, and what might come next.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you go to see your doctor, and they give you a medical opinion - based on established guidelines by a governing medical body - you tend to trust them. But what if there’s been a hidden flaw in the scientific community for years? One that can lead doctors to recommend certain drugs, or treatments, that are based on studies that end up being deemed untrustworthy? Today, national science reporter Liam Mannix joins Samantha to discuss the worrying rise in retracted scientific papers. And what we should know about how clinical guidelines are created.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saltburn, the dark psychological thriller starring Barry Keoghan and Jacob Elordi, is the second feature film from writer/director Emerald Fennell after her Oscar-nominated debut, Promising Young Women. It's one of the most divisive films of the year, with some critics describing it as a funny, sharp satire of the rich while others have dismissed it as derivative and messy. Osman, Thomas and Mel review the film (spoiler-free) and discuss the most controversial moments, what works and what doesn't, and how it compares to classics like Brideshead Revisited and The Talented Mr Ripley. Then they talk about the second episode of The Curse, which is fast becoming one of the best and strangest shows of the year. Plus, the latest season of The Crown and Jim Chalmers' obsession with 90s hip-hop.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kate McClymont has been one of the most respected figures in Australian journalism for more than three decades. Her fearless investigative reporting has held the powerful to account and uncovered corruption, fraud and criminal enterprise across politics, business, sport and wider society. Last night, Kate was recognised in Australia’s top journalism awards - the Walkleys. She was given the award for outstanding contribution to journalism.  Today, chief investigative reporter at The Sydney Morning Herald, Kate McClymont joins editor of the Herald, Bevan Shields, to discuss her journey into journalism, her outstanding career, and what she has her sights set on next. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, a hostage exchange deal was brokered between Israel and Hamas. In Australia, we saw divisive protests over the Middle East conflict, and a strong political backlash from those protests.  Meanwhile, on bread and butter issues, the Albanese government is coming under increasing pressure to address the cost of living crisis. Data released this week indicated the economy might soon start losing jobs.  Today on Inside Politics, chief political correspondent David Crowe, foreign affairs and national security correspondent Matthew Knott, and economics correspondent Rachel Clun join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics.Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Kelly Bayer Rosmarin resigned as the CEO of Optus, earlier this week, it wasn’t a surprise. This came only days after Optus unleashed one of the worst ever telecommunications outages in our country’s history.But now there’s a massive question hanging in the air. Who will be Optus’ next CEO?And why is former NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian considered a front runner? Especially since NSW’s independent corruption commission found her guilty of serious corrupt conduct, just five months ago?Today, technology editor David Swan on what a new senate committee hearing into the Optus outage has told us about what damage the company inflicted on the public. And the future of Australia’s second largest telecommunications company.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three different wars are being fought across the world right now. And Australia is connected to each one of them. Each war threatens our security, and it’s arguably the first time we’ve been in this position since the Cold War. But, amid the threats, these wars also have lessons to teach us about what particular sort of warfare poses the biggest challenge to our sovereignty. And what has accounted for some surprising, recent, developments in the wars between Israel and Hamas, and Russia and Ukraine. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher, on this. And what lesson Vladimir Putin has recently learned the hard way.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is a story of two men from vastly different backgrounds whose lives and deaths would see no justice and reveal bigger questions about the institutions that underpin Australian society. On yesterday’s episode, we heard from Anthony Cawsey’s friends about the life he led before it came to a brutal end in Centennial Park. Experts and panels weighed in on whether the murder was a gay hate crime and as detectives swabbed more than 100 people searching for suspects – they had one man, Moses Kellie, in their sights.  Today, investigative journalist Charlotte Grieve brings us part two of this series: Moses Kellie.  And a warning, this episode contains descriptions of violence and suicide.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this two-part series, we look at a police investigation into a Sydney murder from 2009 – and what came next.Through interviews with dozens of insiders and hundreds of documents – we look behind the scenes to expose new tactics used by detectives to get what they want – through politicians. It’s a story about loss, fairness, power and the Australian character – what is it, who decides and at what cost? Today, investigative journalist Charlotte Grieve brings us episode one in a two-part series: Anthony Cawsey.And a warning, this episode contains sexual references and descriptions of violence.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David Fincher's The Killer is deservedly the most popular film on Netflix right now. Osman, Thomas and Mel unpack this stylish, cold-blooded thriller starring Michael Fassbender and discuss how it compares to other Fincher classics like The Social Network, Gone Girl, Fight Club and Zodiac. They also review the first episode of Nathan Fielder's new show The Curse, starring Emma Stone. Plus, a conversation about Robbie Williams' documentary, The Buccaneers and a new book about Marvel.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week the government rushed through legislation placing tough restrictions on more than 80 people who have now been released from indefinite immigration detention. Those detainees were released after the High Court last week upended two decades of immigration law, ruling that the indefinite immigration detention of non-citizens who can’t be deported was illegal. Debate around indefinite immigration detention flared as a broader debate about migration continued, amid concerns a record level of immigration was adding pressure to inflation and housing in Australia. Today chief political correspondent David Crowe and national affairs editor James Massola on the fallout from the high court decision and the broader conversation about migration in this country.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was big news at the time. In 2019, Australian Federal Police officers, wearing black suits and clutching briefcases, raided the ABC’s headquarters in Sydney before an array of journalists and photographers who were there to capture their every move. The AFP was investigating a leak of documents that formed the basis of a series of stories called the Afghan Files.  The source of those documents was military lawyer David McBride, who faces jail time after he was charged with disclosing the confidential information. Today reporter Angus Thompson on the trial of David McBride, which began in court this week. And the question of duty and who it was owed to - the defence force, or the Australian public. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re now more than five weeks into the war between Hamas and Israel, and time is not on Israel’s side. At least in the realm of public opinion. As more and more people around the world cast their eyes on photographs from Gaza - of dying children and people trying to rescue their loved ones from rubble - the pressure on Israel to take steps towards a ceasefire grows. And it isn’t just from American president Joe Biden, who continues to call for Israel to explore “less intrusive action”. Or from Indonesia, which has begun exerting quiet pressure, behind the scenes, for Australia to take a harder line on Israel.  Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on this, and the results of a new poll which reveals, for the first time, Australian attitudes towards the war. And how it’s laying our principles bare.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, 10 million Optus customers woke to no phone or internet coverage.  And then the problems dominoed from there. Melbourne’s entire train network came to a screeching halt, and phone lines to hospitals were down. Some people were unable to call triple zero if they needed to. For several hours, Optus’ CEO was also missing in action, and a two-line statement on the company’s website - that customers without internet couldn’t see - said Optus was “aware of an issue” and was working to restore services “as quickly as possible". Today, technology editor David Swan on getting to the bottom of what caused the 16-hour Optus outage ahead of the CEO's expected appearance before a Senate inquiry this week.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will there ever be peace in the middle east? And if so, how can it be accomplished? This is one of the great questions of our time. Multiple, deadly wars have been fought to try and achieve lasting harmony between people who have been divided for generations. It is at the heart of the latest atrocities that the people in Gaza and Israel have been suffering through, for more than a month. But the problem, says Dr Francesca Albanese, The United Nations Special Rapporteur for human rights in the Palestinian Territories, is that everyone, from politicians to soldiers, have often been fighting for the wrong thing. Today, she joins Samantha to discuss what is needed to stop the seemingly unending suffering in the Palestinian territories, and Israel.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Anthony Albanese completed his first visit to China as prime minister - the first official top-level visit in about seven years. Greeting Albanese in the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping said Australia and China have “worked out some problems”. Albanese said the pace of bilateral visits was increasing, and trade has begun to flow more freely between the countries. It’s a fresh start for Australian-Chinese relations, after a years-long diplomatic and economic freeze, which included disputes over China’s military threats towards Taiwan, the cases of several Australians detained in China, and the $20 billion in trade embargoes. Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe and north asia correspondent Eryk Bagshaw discuss the trip and what it means for the relationship going forward.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said Israel will retain "security responsibility" for Gaza, once the fighting stops. But when will that be? The war with Hamas is now in its second month. Thousands of Gazans have died, many buried beneath rubble, as a result of Israeli airstrikes. The living struggle to find food, shelter and water.For Palestinian-Australians like Samah Sabawi, a poet and a writer living in is Melbourne, it’s a nightmare. Sabawi has 75 family members in Gaza, where she was born.Today, she joins Samantha to discuss what her family is experiencing in the battle-strewn territory. And what Palestinians in Gaza think of Hamas.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Anthony Albanese visited Beijing over the weekend, it was a victory lap, according to some commentators. This was the first visit from an Australian Prime Minister to China in seven years. It marked an end of nearly a generation of China’s multi-pronged attempts to dominate Australia. But have we been lulled into a false sense of security by Albanese’s so-called victory lap? Are we still too reliant on China? Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on the ominous warning our leaders once ignored, to their detriment, and whether Australia has learnt the lessons from its past.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was the deal of a century. Because, when Elon Musk finally bought Twitter for a whopping $44 billion a year ago - and this came only after months of drama, and waffling, and a lawsuit - it ushered in a new era in social media. A self-confessed “free-speech absolutist”, Musk said that he wanted to create a “digital town square”. So, has he? And if so, who’s populating it?  Today, business columnist Stephen Bartholomeusz on what has arguably been the worst financial deal of the century. And what Elon Musk has in store next.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was the quiet country lunch that ended with three people dead, and the town’s pastor fighting for his life after police suspect the food they ate was laced with death cap mushrooms. Last week, there was a significant development in a case so bizarre it has attracted worldwide attention. The woman accused of hosting the now-infamous lunch, 49-year-old Erin Patterson, was arrested and charged by homicide detectives. Today, law and justice editor Chris Vedelago on how this latest news unfolded, and what happens with the case from here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They say never let the truth get in the way of a good story, but what about a funny joke? Following on from the New Yorker’s allegations that comedian Hasan Minhaj fabricated stories in his Netflix specials, Osman, Mel and Thomas discuss how much comedians should be allowed to embellish on stage, why Minhaj was fact-checked when other stand-ups aren’t, and where the line is when it comes to “emotional truth.” Plus, Mel learns about drill rap via the OneFour doco on Netflix, and there’s a new fine-dining drama that might just be better than The Bear.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Saturday afternoon, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will touch down in Beijing for an official visit with Chinese President Xi Jinping. It’s the first time in six years that an Australian leader has travelled to China, and an important symbolic step in the defrosting of China-Australia relations, after they entered a deep freeze, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe and North Asia correspondent Eryk Bagshaw, on what this means for relations between the two countries.Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the last few days, the war between Israel and Hamas has entered a new stage. The Israeli Defence Force has sent tanks, and troops, into Gaza. At the same time, rage, over civilian deaths, is building around the world.  But what is the mood on the ground, in Israel, and in the Palestinian territories? Foreign affairs and national security correspondent Matthew Knott just returned from spending two weeks in the region. He witnessed ancient hatreds play out. And met with countless locals. Today, Matthew joins me to discuss the tensions building on the ground. And where this war may go next.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Decades ago, the idea that American political leaders might care about what Australia does, or doesn’t do, with its foreign policy decisions was laughable. In fact, former American secretary of state Henry Kissinger once made a joke about it. At our expense.But that was then. Just last week, Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese was feted at the White House. But it wasn’t just his treatment at an elaborate state dinner, or during informal talks, that has signified a major change in the geopolitical state of play.Rather it was the substance of the leaders’ discussions - and a tossed-off, and pointed, aside by Joe Biden in front of the world’s media - that signal a stronger-than-ever alliance between the two countries.Today, international and political editor, Peter Hartcher, on why Australia is now key to America’s fight to “win the 21st century”.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Lilie James, a water polo coach at an elite school in Sydney, was found dead. Her death sent shock waves not just through her school community, but across Australia.  In part, it was because of her youth, and innocence. She was only 21, and was found dead in the school in which she worked.  The man suspected of killing her was a fellow staff member, with whom she had had a brief relationship. But as shocked as people are, James’ death touches on a much wider problem in our country. Today, chief reporter Jordan Baker and Dr Kate Fitz-Gibbon, Director of the Gender and Family Violence Prevention Centre at Monash University, on what happened to Lilie James. And what our communities need to prevent more women from dying at the hands of those they know.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many of us know that the last year has been calamitous. We know this from our own visceral experience - the unseasonably warm days in winter and even in spring, that tell us that the climate has gone haywire. And then there’s the news. For instance, that more than 16.5 million hectares of Canada has burned this year. So when a large team of scientists says that even they were stunned by the temperatures around the world this year - that this year will probably go down as the hottest in 100,000 years - you know it’s time to sit up and take notice. Today, environment reporter Miki Perkins on the latest global climate change report. And which “vital signs” that measure the health of our planet have been found to be pretty sick.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Prime Minister Anthony Albanese travelled to Washington, DC, for meetings with US President Joe Biden. Top of the agenda for discussion was the AUKUS submarines deal. Albanese also wanted to talk about the trade of critical minerals, commodities which represent a growing export market for Australia. Back on the home front, Indigenous leaders emerged from their week of silence following the failed Voice to Parliament referendum. Bruce Wolpe, senior fellow at the United States Studies Centre and federal political correspondent Paul Sakkal join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For years, we’ve been hearing about how the Australian fashion industry has changed. How it’s increasingly embracing diversity, in magazine shoots and on the runway.  But behind the scenes, black models paint a very different picture. They say they’re paid less than their white counterparts. That they’re subject to prejudice and disrespect.  Which is why, this week, more than a dozen local models are boycotting Melbourne Fashion Week. They’re fed up with the treatment they receive that, says one model, wouldn’t be allowed in London, New York or Paris. Today, journalist Antoinette Latouff, author of the book, How To Lose Friends and Influence White People, on what goes on behind the scenes for black models in Australia.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been nearly three weeks since Hamas launched its bloody attack on Israel. And a ground invasion of Gaza is “inevitable”, the Israeli Defence Force said the other day,  unless Hamas surrenders unconditionally. But what will an incursion into Gaza mean for the people there? How many people might lose their lives? And can horror lead to peace in the Middle East? International and political editor Peter Hartcher says that previous conflicts foreshadow what might happen after Israeli troops hit the ground. Today, he joins Samantha to discuss the lessons we can take from other wars. And whether battle can ever be humane.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anthony Pratt, one of Australia’s richest men, was once given advice by the boxing champion Muhammad Ali. If you get in a fight  - run. But now, Anthony Pratt might not have that chance. Until now, Pratt was known for heading up Australia’s second biggest private company. But then came October 5, when it was revealed that former American president Donald Trump had allegedly revealed state secrets to Pratt, in a secret meeting. Secrets he had no business hearing, even if he’s not accused of breaking any laws. A series of leaked secret tapes and documents have revealed not just this. They also give us a peek into the channels of power. And how billionaires can pay their way to meet the most powerful people in the world - and influence them. Today, investigative reporters Nick McKenzie and Richard Baker on the tapes that reveal the difference between what Anthony Pratt says about the powerful in public. And what he says in private.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, a High Court ruling sent many state governments into a tailspin. It was Victoria that was rapped on the knuckles, legally, after the court ruled that a tax it imposed on users of electric vehicles was illegal. But this decision could cost the states billions. Because the ruling has opened the way for potential challenges to all kinds of state taxes, from gaming, to car registration. Today, climate and energy correspondent Mike Foley on the political fight that has resulted from trying to encourage people to use electric vehicles in a polluted world.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From Goodfellas to Taxi Driver, The Wolf of Wall Street to The Departed, Martin Scorcese has made some of the biggest and best films in Hollywood history. But his latest film, Killers of the Flowers Moon, which focuses on a series of murders in the US in the 1920s  could be the director at his very best. Osman, Thomas and Mel discuss (spoiler-free) the Killers of the Flower Moon, and why it feels so important in this current moment. They compare notes on Scorsese's body of work, talk about their favourite films and zero in on his long running relationship with his two leads: Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro. Plus, Mel gives the thumbs up to Green Dot, a buzzy literary debut from a young Australian author and Osman talks about why he is into Netflix's The Fall of the House of Usher. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Politics this week was dominated by the aftermath of, and the fallout from, the contentious referendum on the Voice. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faced pressure from the Opposition to explain what his position was on treaty and truth-telling, the other two parts of the Uluru Statement that outlined the vision for the failed Voice to Parliament.  Separately, the conflict in Israel caused tension in Canberra. The parliament passed a motion condemning Hamas’ terrorist attacks on Israel, but the Greens sought an amendment that condemned “the war crimes perpetrated by the state of Israel” including the bombing of civilians. They were joined by two independent Teal MPs, Sophie Scamps and Kylea Tink. The amendment failed to pass. Chief political correspondent David Crowe and Sun Herald and Sunday Age chief political reporter Lisa Visentin join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is, say many, the most complicated hostage-taking situation in recent memory. When Hamas first attacked Israel nearly two weeks ago, it took what was believed to be around 100 hostages. Men, women and children. Many snatched from their beds. Now, the Israeli government says the number stands at more like 199 hostages.  Their loved ones wait in anguish for any news.  Today, former Australian army officer and middle east analyst Rodger Shanahan on the unique challenge the Israeli defence force faces in attempting to rescue the hostages.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s now 11 days since Israel began bombing Gaza, in retaliation for the gruesome attack on Israel by Hamas. Until recently, Israel’s allies have been reluctant to call on the country to temper its response to the militant group. But now that appears to be changing.  The world’s lens is starting to shift away from the atrocities suffered by Israel. And towards Gaza, where the number of innocent civilians dying increases with every passing day. Today, political and international editor Peter Hartcher joins me to discuss why now is the time for Israel to begin showing restraint. And where this conflict could move to next. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Israeli Defence Force is preparing to invade the Gaza strip, and attack by “air, sea and land.” This comes days after the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, launched an unprecedented and bloody attack on Israel.  Hamas fighters kidnapped Israeli women, men and children from their homes. And left more than 1,500 Israelis dead in their wake. But on the other side of the border from Israel, Palestinian civilians are enmeshed in a devastating humanitarian crisis.  Today, chief reporter Jordan Baker on what an Israeli ground offensive will mean for the people of Gaza.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian people have spoken. They do not want an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to parliament enshrined in our constitution. But how did we come to this result? Were our votes determined by our age, socio-economic status and political allegiances? By where we live? By fear, or, conversely, hope? And where do we go from here? Is “reconciliation dead”, as one key ‘Yes’ advocate has claimed? Has this result “poisoned” our nation, in a way that cannot be remedied? Or does it leave the door open to a more humane way of viewing Indigenous disadvantage in our country, as one leading ‘No’ campaigner argues? Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe on what we can learn from this historic referendum.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tomorrow, Australia will decide the fate of the Voice to parliament, when we turn out to vote in the historic referendum on Indigenous recognition. All the polling shows that the Voice referendum will fail to pass, which will represent a hugely significant moment in the history of reconciliation. Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe, and The Age and Sydney Morning Herald columnist Sean Kelly join Jacqueline Maley to discuss what happens after the referendum, and what the Voice debate reveals about Australia. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is a practice that some people say has ruined their lives. For others, it has led to long-lasting mental and physical anguish. So why is gay conversion therapy banned in some states of Australia, and perfectly legal in others? NSW premier Chris Minns made an election promise that he would ban gay conversion practices, if he were to be elected. That was in February this year. Since then, LGTBQ advocates have faced off against some religious groups that have opposed the ban. While others fear a ban may lead to unintended consequences. Today, senior writer Caitlin Fitzsimmons on how hard it's been for many Australians to avoid persecution, because of their sexual or gender identity And just a warning, this episode mentions suicide and self-harm.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the weekend, the Palestinian militant group, Hamas, achieved what no one thought was possible.  Under the cover of a hail of thousands of deadly missiles that overwhelmed Israel’s vaunted Iron Dome defences, invading Hamas militants freely roamed residential streets. They took dozens of Israeli civilians at will, and left hundreds dead.  Since then, Israel has responded with force, launching airstrikes that killed nearly 300 Palestinians in 24 hours. The country’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has declared war on Hamas, vowing to exact “mighty vengeance”. There is much speculation about why Hamas decided to carry out this deadly invasion now. According to political and international editor Peter Hartcher, understanding the timing behind this attack will help us understand why this war is not just a savage new round in the Israeli-Palestinian struggle. And why instead, it signals that a much bigger conflict is afoot.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just days away from one of the most significant referenda on the rights and recognition of Australia’s Indigenous people, new polling is still showing the proposal is heading for a defeat. Though support has risen on the proposal to enshrine, in the Constitution, a group that would advise parliament on policy and laws affecting First Nations people, a clear majority of Australians have turned against the Voice. For the first time our exclusive polling, in the Resolve Political Monitor, has explored the reasons why people are planning to vote the way they are. Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe on what is driving more people to vote 'No' to the Voice - and what arguments from the likes of Opposition leader Peter Dutton have cut through.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When many of us think about nuclear energy, disasters such as Chernobyl and Fukushima naturally come to mind. But now, some of our most powerful politicians are arguing that nuclear energy is just the ticket for solving Australia’s energy crisis. So, is it realistic to build nuclear reactors here? And if so, what about the risks? Today, climate and energy correspondent Mike Foley on whether there’s a good enough case for introducing an energy source that was banned in Australia 25 years ago.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Netflix's latest blockbuster sports documentary, directed by Succession's Fisher Stevens, is about the life and career of David Beckham, and his relationship with Victoria (aka Posh Spice), Osman, Thomas and Mel review Beckham, discuss what makes a sports documentary and talk about whether celebrities have too much control when it comes to telling the story of their lives before sharing their favourite sports docos of all time. Then they dig into The Gold, a gripping heist drama that deserves more buzz, before sharing their recommendations in Impress Your Friends.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Wednesday, the Albanese government announced the biggest reforms to Australia's visa system in more than a decade. The government crackdown will see $50 million spent on tougher compliance and permanent investigation teams in a bid to stamp out criminal exploitation of the migration industry.  The new measures are part of the government’s formal response to a report by former police commissioner Christine Nixon into the exploitation of the visa system.  Will the crackdown end the criminal activity rife in our visa system? Is former Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton to blame for all of these problems, as the government claims? And what will the government do about migration more generally, what is the right balance and who gets to decide?  Plus we will check in on the voice campaign which has only one week left to run.  Chief political correspondent David Crowe and economic policy director at the Grattan Institute, Brendan Coates join Jacqueline Maley on Inside Politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, early voting began for the Voice to parliament referendum at centres across the country. Support for an Indigenous voice to parliament seems to have been in a steady decline since last year. But now, a new poll suggests the Yes vote has - for the first time in many months - gained some ground. We won’t know the outcome of this latest referendum until next weekend. But we can glean a lot of insight from our history. In particular, the 44 constitutional referendums we’ve had, in addition to dozens more state-based votes, on everything from pub closing times to conscription. Today, economics correspondent Shane Wright on why referendums so often fail in Australia. And what the academic who predicted Brexit says about the upcoming vote on the Voice to parliament.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the weekend, the American government narrowly avoided - by only a matter of minutes - a total shut-down. This might not be uncommon these days. It’s happened numerous times over the last decade. But this time it’s different. Because a virtual civil war has erupted within the Republican party, one that, according to some commentators, is unprecedented. So, what will this mean for the United States? And the rest of us? Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on how this chaos could imperil Ukraine’s war effort. And threaten other American allies.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever since Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced a long-anticipated inquiry into the COVID-19 pandemic, accusations about it have ricocheted across the nation. Why aren’t the state and territory leaders being compelled to give evidence? And why won’t some of the more extreme pandemic measures, like lockdowns and border control fines, be scrutinised? Entering this void is a new book, which comes out today. Life As We Knew It: The Extraordinary Story of Australia’s Pandemic, takes us through some of the most critical decisions made during the pandemic. Many of them happened behind closed doors.  Today, the authors of that book, health editor Aisha Dow and reporter Melissa Cunningham tell us about what former prime minister Scott Morrison, and other key figures, told them about Australia's pandemic response. And what we need to learn for next time.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the last couple of weeks, the relationship between India and Canada has been crumbling, with each government lobbing extraordinary accusations against the other. They claim acts of espionage and terrorism. The match that lit the powder keg of tensions was a murder of a Sikh separatist in Canada. It’s thrown a spotlight on a relatively obscure protest movement, which aims to create a new homeland for Sikhs. And has now stretched beyond the borders of India. Today, we speak with North Asia correspondent Eryk Bagshaw, on the impact that this global feud will have on Australia, and the separatists who live here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taylor Swift has already dominated the cultural conversation in 2023 and now she's turning her attention to professional sports, with a surprise appearance at an NFL match leading to a global meltdown. Osman, Thomas and Mel break down what exactly this crossover event means for pop culture and Swift, and why everyone is obsessed with Travis Kelce.Plus, they discuss the end of the Hollywood writers' strike, and share their recommendations in Impress Your Friends.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Home Affairs secretary Michael Pezzullo became widely known this week when The Age, Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes published a cache of text messages between him and a former Liberal power broker, Scott Briggs.   The messages, which span many years, seem to show that Pezzullo used Briggs as a conduit between himself and former Coalition prime ministers Scott Morrison and Malcolm Turnbull.  Pezzullo was stood down and an investigation is pending, but questions remain about the power of unelected officials, the cosy access Pezzullo had with Coalition figures, and what influence he may have had on political decisions.  Also, the implications for federal politics of Victorian Premier Dan Andrews’ resignation, and an update on the Voice campaign.  Chief political correspondent David Crowe, and national security correspondent Matthew Knott join Jacqueline Maley on Inside Politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rupert Murdoch has long been more than simply an uber-wealthy media magnate. As the owner of influential outlets like Fox News and a global stable of newspapers, he has helped put presidents in the White House. And, in Canberra, take prime ministers out of parliament house. So what will happen now - to both the media, and to politicians - now that Murdoch has stepped down from his role leading both News Corp and Fox Corporation? And his son, Lachlan Murdoch, has taken over? Today, senior correspondent Anne Hyland on Fox’s future under Lachlan. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday Daniel Andrews announced his resignation as the Victorian premier. This was a snap declaration, made in a press conference outside the Victorian state parliament, and was organised only 40 minutes beforehand. First, we speak to state political editor Annika Smethurst about why he’s resigned, why now and what it means for Victoria. Then we’ll air an episode from late last year, just ahead of the Victorian state election. In that episode, state political reporter Rachel Eddie interviewed her colleague, journalist Sumeyya Ilanbey, author of a revealing biography of Daniel Andrews. It explored how he became the most divisive premier in the country. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Climate Council already warned us in February that Australia was “primed to burn” this summer.  But just how bad are things likely to get in NSW and Victoria? Are we likely to see a return to the destruction of the Black Summer fires of nearly four years ago, which burnt millions of hectares of land in NSW and killed at least 34 people?  Or are the conditions ripe for an event like the Black Saturday fires in Victoria, 15 years ago, which killed 173 people?  Today, national science reporter Liam Mannix and science reporter Angus Dalton on the new risk factors, this year. And why the current weather conditions, perfect for bushfires, have become the new normal.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For months our newspapers have been laying out the operational failures in the federal Department of Home Affairs.  Now, an exclusive investigation conducted by The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes can reveal allegations that the man who heads up the Department of Home Affairs tried to use back channels to shape governments and build his own political empire. Today, investigative journalist Nick McKenzie on Michael Pezzullo, and how power and influence really work in the halls of Parliament House in Canberra.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A years long investigation into Russell Brand has seen the actor, comedian and controversial commentator accused of sexual assault by multiple women. Brand denies the allegations, but this week a number of examples of him acting inappropriately towards women have resurfaced. Osman, Thomas and Mel unpack Brand's rise to fame, why his behaviour was never reined in and what his career, and the allegations against him, reveal about celebrity culture. Plus, we introduce a new segment: Impress Your Friends, featuring pop culture recommendations from each of the hosts.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The countdown to the Voice referendum is on - it is only three weeks away this Saturday. This week we saw a fragmentation of the No campaign with a dispute over the issue of treaty, as well as a powerful endorsement of the Yes case from one of Australia’s greatest sporting heroes.  Right now, the Voice dominates debate, but in a month the political caravan will be moving on, whatever the result of the referendum, and post-referendum politics is likely to centre around the economy, and its uncertain future. Chief political correspondent David Crowe and economics correspondent Rachel Clun join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For four years now, Joe Biden has had a niggling problem that has threatened his ability to function as president.   Since 2019, there have been rumours floating around that his son, Hunter Biden, has capitalised on access to his famous father in business dealings with people in Ukraine and China. Then, last week, Hunter was indicted on federal firearms charges, for which he faces a possible criminal trial. Today, digital foreign editor Chris Zappone on whether the activities of Hunter Biden could sink his father's bid for a second term as president. And why Hunter’s laptop is at the centre of everything. You can read Chris' piece here: https://www.smh.com.au/world/north-america/how-hunter-biden-s-laptop-plugs-into-joe-biden-impeachment-talk-20230915-p5e51v.htmlSubscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A number of Pacific Island nations, which sit right on our doorstep, are dangerously close to slipping into the oceans, as they continue to rise.  In response, a number of their governments issued a proposal last week to Australian foreign minister, Penny Wong. They want their citizens to enjoy visa-free travel to and from Australia and New Zealand. But, how much support do these nations have from us? Today, political and international editor Peter Hartcher on who is standing in the way of helping these nations. And what we will lose, if we don’t.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia has the worst mammal extinction rate of any continent. And cats are high on the list of just who, or what is to blame. Various politicians have been bemoaning this reality for years. But the killing of our native wildlife has continued, virtually unabated. Now, Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has a new plan of attack. It targets not just feral cats, which Plibersek called walking, stalking, ruthless killers, but pet cats, too. The move is pitting wildlife researchers, who are happy with the new plan, against cat lovers. Today, federal health reporter Natassia Chrysanthos on what happens when the government targets your tabby as public enemy number one. And whether this new plan will justify the cost to pet owners.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been 17 years since Julian Assange created Wikileaks, the online publisher of classified documents that has changed politics forever. For eleven of those years, Assange has either been in hiding, or in prison. But why is Assange still in prison? When American whistleblower, Chelsea Manning, who was sentenced to 35 years for leaking secret government files to Wikileaks, has already been set free? Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent Matthew Knott on the unusual group of Australian politicians visiting Washington on Wednesday, in a bid to finally free Assange. And whether his fate will ultimately be determined by whoever holds the American presidency.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo is back with her second album Guts, and it’s receiving rave reviews. Osman, Thomas and Mel discuss reaction to the album, the drama surrounding it, and what it says about the state of pop music right now. Plus, some of the insane celebrity relationship drama making headlines recently, and what it tells us about the state of humanity and our own brains. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dirty tactics and accusations of racism: after months of increasingly strident argument, this might have been the week that debate about the Voice referendum officially got nasty.  On Tuesday, our reporter Paul Sakkal published a story about the deceptive tactics of the No campaign - Its volunteers are instructed to ring voters and sow misinformation, by telling them the Voice might be used to push for financial reparations.  Then it was reported that Indigenous leader Marcia Langton told a forum in WA that the arguments of the No case were grounded in “base racism” or “sheer stupidity” - comments she later said were misreported. Today federal politics reporter Paul Sakkal and chief political correspondent David Crowe join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australians haven’t been shy in expressing their rage at Qantas, and the fact that the company made billions in profits over the last year, while it continues to leave them stranded and frustrated.  But, here’s the thing. Qantas is far from the only big business behaving badly. The list has been growing for years now. Today, economics editor Ross Gittins, on how big business got out of control - and why it should be serving, rather than enslaving us.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve been hearing, for a while now, about how China is making moves consistent with its intention to become a global power, to rival the United States. How it’s beefing up its military arsenal. And claiming sovereignty over more and more areas in the South China Sea, which other countries say belong to them.  But if this is the case, why did China’s president, Xi Jinping, ditch one of the most important yearly summits, with other global leaders over the weekend? Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on what Xi Jinping was up to instead. And whether his activities signal an increasing likelihood of a new cold war between the United States and China.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re now less than five weeks away from the referendum on the Voice to parliament. But as a new and exclusive poll for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age revealed yesterday, voters continue to walk away from supporting the proposed amendment to the constitution.This comes after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese unveiled the splashy ‘Yes’ video campaign, featuring the iconic John Farnham song You’re The Voice. And, after the prime minister has stated that we’re now in the period when the Yes campaign will be shoring up its support.Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe on just how many voters are swinging away from supporting the ‘Yes’ campaign. And why support for the prime minister continues to tank.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a controversial new industry being built right under our noses. By a cast of characters who sound like they’re straight out of an Agatha Christie novel. We’re talking about deep-sea mining.  It is the last frontier on earth yet to be mined for riches. Many argue that deep sea mining will benefit the environment. But others, like world-famous environmentalist David Attenborough, say that it’s unthinkable to embark on this practice until its environmental impact is better understood. Today, journalist Sherryn Groch, on the privatisation of the world’s seabed that is happening behind closed doors.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Osman, Thomas and Mel share what films, television, books and music they are most looking forward to over the next few months. From Martin Scorsese's Killers of the Flower Moon to Olivia Rodrigo's Guts and Britney Spears memoir The Woman in Me, here's the pop culture you don't want to miss.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It used to be one of Australia’s most beloved brands, synonymous with the national character, and what it means to come home…but now Qantas is the most complained-about company in Australia, and the Albanese government has been dragged into the controversy.  So why has Qantas lost the love of the Australian public? And how much collateral damage is being done to the Albanese government? Plus, why pharmacists are heckling the government, and an update on the Voice referendum. Today, reporter on deputy federal editor Stephanie Peatling and chief political correspondent David Crowe join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics.   Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when a global economic power spits the dummy?  It has been a pertinent question ever since China decided to pull out of a number of upcoming and crucial global meetings. And in the process, enrage many of its neighbours.   It all began when China released a new map just over a week ago.  Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher, on what impact this new map will have on Australia, and the sort of havoc that geopolitical tantrums have unleashed in the past.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Qantas’ outgoing boss Alan Joyce will leave the airline after 15 years at the helm. His tenure has been nothing if not dramatic. Three years ago, he steered the company away from ruin, only 11 weeks out from having to declare bankruptcy. Nine days ago, Joyce faced allegations of improper government influence and anti-competitive practices at an explosive senate hearing. And now, as he’s about to pocket an eye-watering bonus, Alan Joyce leaves countless enraged consumers in his wake. So, how will Qantas redeem itself and restore its reputation as a trustworthy airline? Today, aviation reporter Amelia McGuire on the future of our nation’s carrier. And what it will take for its new CEO to repair the damage done by her predecessor.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For decades, we’ve read about China’s one-child policy, and the often traumatic impact it has had on the country’s citizens. Of the forced sterilisations, and babies abandoned in orphanages. But now, decades after that policy was first put into place, China is battling a different problem. Namely, a fertility collapse that has led to a drastic decline in the economy and  innovation. And now the challenge is to convince its citizens to have more babies. Today, North Asia correspondent, Eryk Bagshaw, on the Chinese CEO who’s paying his employees to have a baby. And how a collapse in China’s fertility might impact the rest of us.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese finally announced that the referendum on the Voice to parliament will be held on October 14. We are less than six weeks out until the referendum. And there seems to still be a lot we don’t know. About the way people - both Indigenous and non-Indigenous - feel the Voice will impact them.  This is what one of our journalists discovered during a recent trip to three towns in regional NSW. In 1965, these towns were pivotal stops on the so-called Freedom Ride, a tour that exposed the segregationist policies of the time. Today, federal political reporter Lisa Visentin, on what she learned about Australia, while revisiting the Freedom Ride. And what people on both sides of the debate have told her. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The biggest song in the world right now is Rich Men North of Richmond, a controversial country anthem. But is it's success really organic, or is it part of a right-wing plot to take over the charts? Osman, Thomas and Mel discuss the song's popularity and its politics amid the massive surge country music is experiencing. Songs from Morgan Wallen and Luke Combs are dominating the charts, representing a significant shift away from pop and hip-hop. So why is country so popular right now, and what does it mean about how we consume music?Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese officially revealed the date of the referendum on the Voice to Parliament - October 14. Albanese gave a minimalist speech, focusing on what the Yes campaign says is the simplicity and the modesty of its request for Constitutional recognition of Indigenous people.  So how did the launch go? How was it received and what was the political fallout? Plus, the pay rise our federal politicians just received - the largest in nearly a decade. Today, national affairs editor James Massola and chief political correspondent David Crowe join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Qantas CEO Alan Joyce is, arguably, one of Australia’s most criticised executives. That his airline announced a record $2.47 billion in profits, over the last financial year, when so many Australians are struggling with the cost of living, hasn’t helped his reputation.But, it isn’t just his famously ruthless business acumen that is currently making headlines around the country. Instead, Alan Joyce is currently at the centre of a scandal which questions whether he has undue influence over Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.Today, aviation reporter Amelia McGuire, on why the federal government is being grilled about a recent aviation decision, regarding Qatar Airways. And whether it is guilty of stifling market competition.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re in the midst of a new space race. A week and a half ago, Russia and India were in a neck-and-neck race to reach the moon.Then Russia’s spacecraft crashed. Four days later, in a moment that has been celebrated worldwide, India’s craft, successfully landed on the moon. Or, as it’s now being called, “the hottest real estate in the solar system”.But why are so many countries now racing towards the moon? After all, it’s been 54 years since NASA landed a man on the dusty lunar surface. And these latest missions by Russia and India were unmanned.Today, international and political editor, Peter Hartcher, on the somewhat “juvenile” political rivalries that are playing out in space. And how the moon landings are helping to upend the geopolitical order.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the weekend we finally received confirmation that Yevgeny Prigozhin, the Wagner boss, is dead.  It comes days after speculation ran rife about whether the warlord had indeed been in his private jet when it fell out of the sky in a stream of white smoke six days ago.  Head of the Wagner Group, the most notorious mercenary group in the world, Yevgeny Prigozhin rose from peddling hot dogs to supporting Vladimir Putin’s bloody bid for Russia’s expansion. That is, until he “made serious mistakes in his life”, as Putin put it. Today, journalist Sherryn Groch on the “complicated fate” of those who dare to defy Vladimir Putin.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who robbed the British Museum? And how did they get away with it for so long? The news that the world’s largest, and arguably most prestigious, history museum was robbed made global headlines. It’s no wonder. It’s home to, among other precious artefacts, the Rosetta Stone. As in, the stone that was originally discovered by Napoleon’s soldiers, and later taught the world, for the first time, how to read Egyptian hieroglyphs.  So, just what was stolen? And how? Today, Europe correspondent Rob Harris, on the curious tale of the British Museum’s disappearing collection.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to The O.C. b—ch! It's been twenty years since The O.C. hit screens and the time has come to revisit Newport, California. On this episode of The Drop Osman, Mel and Thomas discuss the hit series, examining its cultural impact at the time, the importance of its legacy today and how the shows sound track influenced the musical taste of a generation.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An ageing population, declining living standards, and a climate that is getting hellishly hot - these are just some the bleak takeaways from Australia’s latest Intergenerational Report. According to the report, there will be forty million people in Australia by 2060 and the main spending pressures on the Budget will grow from one-third to one half of all Commonwealth government spending. Today, senior economics reporter Shane Wright and chief political correspondent David Crowe on Australia’s possibly terrifying future.Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You might have forgotten it's still winter. It was 24 degrees and sunny in Sydney earlier this week. In Melbourne, the forecast for tomorrow is 20 degrees. We are living through some of the hottest times on record. In fact, this past July was the hottest month ever recorded. But while this mid-winter warmth may come as a pleasant surprise, climate experts say it signals a troubling future for humans. Today, National Environment and Climate Editor on Nick O’Malley on the dangers these high temperatures pose, and why it may be just the beginning. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can Australia avoid being dragged into a war with China? Is building up our own military the best way to manage what is, diplomatically speaking, a relationship with a “frenemy”? And not just any frenemy, but one armed with nuclear weapons? This is Australia’s current tactic, cemented on Monday, when the Albanese government announced that it was going ahead with its plan to buy cruise missiles from the United States. Even though Beijing has previously claimed that our acquisition of these missiles would be “triggering a regional arms race”. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher, on what Kevin Rudd, now the Australian ambassador to the United States, has said about how we should navigate what he’s called “the decade of living dangerously”.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They stand largely empty, hiding in plain sight, their little-used classrooms scattered through office buildings in cities across the country. In the exploding foreign education industry, they call them ‘ghost colleges’. These colleges are supposed to be providing tens of thousands of international students with an education. But in reality, many of them are near deserted. Today, investigative reporter Clay Lucas joins Samantha Selinger-Morris to talk about his months-long investigation into the rise of Australia’s ghost colleges, and what they tell us about our immigration system.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens, on a visceral level, if you defy Vladimir Putin? In his first Australian media interview from prison since being jailed last year, one of Russia’s most high profile dissidents has been able to give us the answer.  Ilya Yashin is a two-decades-long veteran of Russia’s anti-Putin opposition. A former leader of the People’s Freedom Party, he rose to prominence during mass protests against fraudulent elections, and Putin’s return to presidency. More recently he has spoken out against the Ukraine war. Today, International and Political editor, Peter Hartcher, on the man who could arguably become Russia’s next prime minister. And what it’s costing him to try and bring about a change in the Russian regime.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, Labor’s national conference officially begins. Held in Brisbane over two days, it’s Labor’s first face-to-face national conference in five years. Around 2000 Labor politicians, party members and unionists, will meet to discuss some of the most important issues in our politics right now: The Voice, housing, AUKUS and the climate, to name a few. Today, national affairs editor James Massola and chief political correspondent David Crowe on what decisions or flashpoints could come out of Labor's national conference.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When JFK was assassinated in 1963, his ambition to be the first sitting American president to visit Australia died with him.  But for the last year, his daughter, Caroline Kennedy, has served as the American ambassador to Australia. She’s here during a particularly critical time for the alliance between the United States and Australia, which is arguably more important for our safety than at any time since World War II.  Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent Matthew Knott on the diplomatic tightrope Kennedy must walk to strengthen  the connection between the US and Australia, and whether the American government might soon be in a position to set Julian Assange free.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are now firmly in the grip of Matildas mania. Close to 50,000 people were in the stands in Brisbane watching the team battle France on Saturday. More than 4.7 million people tuned in to watch the live TV broadcast of the match. And hundreds of thousands more streamed the match at pubs and clubs around the country. So, how will the Matildas summon the energy, and focus, to do it all again tonight? Today, sports reporter Marnie Vinall, on what tactics the women in green and gold might use, in order to make it to the World Cup final.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She’s the TikTok sensation nobody saw coming. Monica Poli, a middle-age Venetian woman, has racked up millions of views on social media, for videos in which she screams at local thieves, in order to chase them away from tourists.  Videos taken in her local train station, or crowded square, shows how her screaming sends suspected pickpockets running, turning up their hoods to cover their faces. Her screeches have been turned into viral memes. Even a dance track. But, lately, some unexpected facts about this homegrown vigilante have emerged.  Today, Digital Foreign Editor Chris Zappone on why Monica Poli has become a sensation. And if her popularity is tied to a growing, wave of anti-immigration populism that’s sweeping Europe.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How powerful is the state that you live in? And does it matter? The answer might surprise you. Because wealth, population size and even a headline-grabbing premier aren’t what determine whether your state comes out on top. Today, National Affairs Editor, James Massola, on how our most primal needs, and desires, are wrapped up in what we think about state power. And how our sense of competition is embedded into the fabric of our nation.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wes Anderson is back with his 11th feature film, the star-studded Asteroid City. On this episode of The Drop, Osman, Thomas and Mel review the film, discuss how it compares to the rest of Anderson's filmography, and talk about the director's aesthetic and how it's influenced social media and the broader culture.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After years and years - maybe even a lifetime of neglect by politicians - renters are finally getting noticed.  This week Prime Minister Anthony Albanese brought his focus to renters, when he promised to negotiate with National Cabinet next week to come up with a plan to strengthen renters’ rights across the country.  This comes after months of pressure from the Greens over rental rights, as the government tries to secure Greens’ support for its $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund.  Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe and senior economics correspondent Shane Wright on the government's plan for renters' rights. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, a family sat down for a lunch in a small town in Victoria’s south-east. But that lunch would soon turn into a tragedy.  Within a week, three of those people would be dead - and one would be in hospital in critical condition. All of them suffered symptoms consistent with the ingestion of death cap mushrooms. Today, crime reporter Marta Pascual Juanola joins me to discuss the mushroom poisoning case gripping the nation. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the case that wrecks the lives of everyone it touches and spawns a seemingly never-ending cascade of legal action. Such is the reputational damage and emotional devastation that has ensued since Brittany Higgins alleged that Bruce Lerhmann, her former Liberal staffer colleague raped her in Parliament house. Lehrmann has always strenuously denied the accusation. Today, senior writer Jacqueline Maley, on how an inquiry into this trial, which was hoped would spearhead an overhaul of parliamentary culture, has gone so terribly wrong.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia has the highest extinction rate of mammals in the world. But what does this erasure actually do to us? It’s more profound than many of us realise.  It’s not just that our country has lost 33 species of its unique mammals since colonisation in 1788. Their eradication has also changed the wider environment in which we live. Even changed what we, and our children, know to be true about the world. Today, National Environment and Climate Editor Nick O’Malley on how one group of conservationists has built a veritable time machine to save native animals. And the once-derided tools it’s used to get the job done.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the last couple of months, Sydney’s streets have been plagued by murder after murder. They’re a byproduct of turf warfare, linked to the lucrative cocaine trade. We’ve seen this carnage before, in various parts of NSW. But we’re now in the midst of an unprecedented cocaine boom. And experts have warned that the violence it attracts is likely to grow rather than recede. Today, chief reporter Jordan Baker on what’s behind these latest killings. And why Sydney, more than anywhere else in the world, loves cocaine.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After one of the most controversial Logies in recent memory, Osman, Thomas and Mel discuss whether Australian TV's night-of-nights still matters, and what it tells us about the state of the industry. They also unpack what Sonia Kruger winning the Gold Logie means, given her controversial comments about Muslim immigration. Plus, a discussion about the second half of The Bear season two, which Thomas and Osman think could be better than Succession.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Tuesday, in the Federal District Court in Washington DC, special counsel Jack Smith filed an indictment against former US president Donald Trump, for his role in the violent aftermath of the 2020 US election.  Trump faces four criminal charges related to alleged conspiracies to overturn the results of the 2020 election and obstruct the process of certification of those results on January 6 2021, the day of the violent Capitol riot.  If convicted, Trump could potentially go to jail for decades.  Today, North America correspondent Farrah Tomazin and international editor Peter Hartcher on the latest charges against Donald Trump. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.    Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is it possible that the United States government has been hiding evidence of discovered UFOs? And even biological matter of non-human origin that it has also found? These were the jaw-dropping claims made, last week, by an American whistleblower and former intelligence officer.  David Grusch’s testimony was at the heart of a US congressional hearing, held last week, to discuss sightings and evidence of what is now being called Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena. Today, Dr James Murray, programs director at Astronomy Australia, on the hearing that has grabbed the world’s attention.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the movie that’s launched a thousand think pieces, and more than a few analytic hit jobs. Ever since Greta Gerwig’s blockbuster hit, Barbie, debuted in a pink fever dream of merchandise tie-ins and red carpet film premieres, people have hotly debated the film’s merits, and potential dangers.  Is Barbie, a “feminist film”, as Greta Gerwig has declared? A timely satire that skewers the problematic aspects of Barbie’s legacy and highlights our culture’s fraught gender relations? Or is it most definitely not a feminist film, as some Mattel executives have said? And, either way, does it matter? Today, senior culture writer and life-long Barbie aficionado, Louise Rugendyke, on how she’s processed the film’s various messages, and why so many people have a deep emotional connection to this most divisive of dolls.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’re all feeling the pinch these days when we fill up our shopping baskets. The check-out prices can make you do a double take. Maybe you’ve attributed this to inflation or getting sucked into buying name brands. But did you know about the marketing practice that convinces us to spend even more than we’d planned? It’s a so-called “dark strategy” known as “drip pricing”. And it’s everywhere. Today, explainer reporter Angus Holland on the psychological tools many companies now use to make us pay more.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Shell-shocked, stitched up and bleeding. This is how health reporter Henrietta Cook describes the situation she was in, only 19 hours after giving birth to her first child,  The problem? Rather than being tended to in hospital, she’d been discharged already. Instead, she was stuck in peak hour traffic, dazed and inching along a main road on her way home. But she’s far from alone. Almost half of mothers in Australia are now discharged from hospital one day or less after having an uncomplicated vaginal birth, compared with about one in four women a decade ago. This, despite recent research that found there was no evidence to support discharging new mums from hospital less than 24 hours after birth. Today, health reporter Henrietta Cook on the havoc that this practice is wreaking on new Australian mothers.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After five weeks of rest and relaxation - for some, at least - federal parliamentarians will return to Canberra on Monday for another sitting fortnight. Besides the resumption of question time, expect heated debate on Labor’s next round of industrial relation reforms, which include plans to convert thousands of casuals into permanent employees. Also looming large over parliament is the Reserve Bank’s next decision on interest rates, as the board meets on Tuesday to discuss whether to hold fast or continue lifting as the economy continues to gradually slow. Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright and political reporter Angus Thompson join Rachel Clun to discuss the week in politics. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who would have thought a film about the advent of the nuclear bomb would capture our imaginations in the way it has? Not to mention our fears.  Oppenheimer, the film starring Cillian Murphy, was released last week, almost 78 years to the day that the first atomic bomb was detonated over a dusty plain in New Mexico.  And since the film’s blockbuster release, it’s led to debate among experts around the globe. Just how imminent is the threat of nuclear attack? The director of Oppenheimer says his film is important because it’s a “cautionary tale” about humanity’s capacity for self-destruction.   Today, international editor Peter Hartcher on just how worried we should be.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Some people save for years just to have one. For others, it’s a reward for achieving a significant milestone. We’re talking about luxury handbags. The sort from designers like Gucci, Prada and Hermes, that, at the highest end, can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. But now there’s a new trend. Superfakes. They’re counterfeit designer bags, but not like you remember. These aren’t cheap knock-offs from markets. They’re virtually indistinguishable from the real thing. Sold as the real thing. And for big money. Today, national fashion editor Melissa Singer on the Sydney-based luxury retailer that has been accused of selling superfakes. And why, for some people, a so-called superfake is a valuable item to have.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia's Home Affairs Department used vast sums of taxpayer money to fund suspect payments to powerful Pacific Island politicians, specifically to run offshore processing of asylum seekers on Nauru and Manus Island. A major investigation by The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald has found a secret money trail beginning in Home Affairs coffers and ending with payments to bank accounts controlled by powerful Pacific Island politicians. The payments were made by companies engaged by the government to run the facilities: in Nauru, two companies called Broadspectrum and Canstruct, and on Manus Island, a company called Paladin and were for services to help run the facility.   The Pacific payments scandal forms a part of a much larger problem within the Home Affairs department. Because while focusing on housing boat arrivals offshore, Home Affairs has taken attention away from its core business of helping legitimate migrants arrive and expelling the rest. We are not suggesting that any payments were in fact bribes, which is ultimately something that can only be proven by a court. But the deals raise integrity concerns that warrant significant scrutiny by the Department. Today, investigative journalists Nick McKenzie and Michael Bachelard on how our Home Affairs Department is failing. Read more on our Home Truths series here. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Remember dating? Or rather, dating before the cost of a rockmelon made you wince? Before handing over your rent made you feel like you were thrust into the middle of a horror movie? It’s been somewhat lost within all the discussion around the cost of living crisis just what an impact it’s had on people trying to make a romantic connection. Maybe even meet their life partner. Today, culture and lifestyle reporter Nell Geraets on what happens when financial struggles meet sexual tension. And when swiping right might mean wiping out all your money for the week.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, we speak with former broadcaster Tracy Spicer about artificial intelligence, misogyny in the media and what it’s like living with long COVID. Her latest book, Man-Made, examines the rapidly developing world of technology, which she says is fraught with danger, posing a real risk to the gains made by the civil rights movement. And hosting this conversation about bias in machine learning, living with a disability and indigenous women as the world’s first coders - is senior culture writer at The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, Kerrie O’Brien. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Education Minister Jason Clare has announced the beginning of an overhaul of higher education. He said the changes were critical for the future of the country. An interim report on universities has made several short term recommendations, including letting students who fail half their subjects keep government subsidies, and opening new study hubs across the regions and outer suburbs. Also this week, the official yes and no arguments for The Voice referendum were finally released, and we take a look at the latest polling on the Prime Minister's approval rating. Today, federal political reporters James Massola and Natassia Chrysanthos join Rachel Clun to discuss the week in politics.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hollywood is on strike. Over the last week, we’ve seen some of the biggest stars in the business marching in picket lines in New York and Los Angeles, and speaking out.  So, what is behind this outpouring of anger and sense of betrayal being felt not just by thousands of Hollywood actors, but by even more of its writers?  Today, culture reporter Thomas Mitchell on what’s behind this historic Hollywood shutdown, and just how long it may last.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cost of living crisis has been crushing countless Australians, emotionally and financially, for more than a year now.  Nearly every day, we read stories about the social avalanche that’s been set off by this crisis. About how the staggeringly high cost of petrol, groceries and rent is leading many young Australians to take insecure employment, instead of further study, in order to support their families. About those now putting off having children or becoming homeless, thanks, in part, to a dozen interest rate rises over the last 14 months. But now, we’ve got a new incoming governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia. And many are pinning their hopes that these stresses might soon ease once Michele Bullock leads our economy. Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright on what a new governor might mean for our stress levels, and our ability to put food on our tables.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Winning public funding for scientific research in Australia is usually a bare-knuckle business. A typical researcher will spend months every year just writing applications; peer-reviewers are brutal, and success rates for grants are often less than 10 per cent. But since 2015, Australia has had another path. The $20 billion Medical Research Future Fund was offering hundreds of millions for scientific projects. It was heralded as a huge boost to the Australian science sector. Until now. An investigation by The Age and Sydney Morning Herald can now reveal that this fund, created by the former Coalition government, handed out half a billion dollars worth of those grants with no competition. And some of that money was sent directly to charities who lobbied the government.  Today, national science reporter Liam Mannix on the multi-billion dollar research fund dogged by questions about transparency, governance and value for money.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, we speak to writer Tim Winton about his campaign to save the remote, pristine ecosystems around Ningaloo, in north-west Western Australia. The award-winning author has produced a documentary about the battle to protect this beautiful reef and the land that surrounds it from numerous threats including salt mines, oil and gas pipelines and a deep water port proposed for the middle of a humpback whale refuge. Hosting the conversation is Good Weekend senior writer Tim Elliott.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Therapy-speak. It’s an umbrella term for any kind of psychological phrasing - and it’s not a new concept, but it’s certainly becoming harder to ignore. From gaslighting to love bombing, from “holding space” for some friends to protecting ourselves from “toxic” others, therapy-speak has changed the way we discuss our most intimate relationships. And it’s in the spotlight again after pro-surfer Sarah Brady released alleged text messages from her former partner, actor and comedian Jonah Hill. Today, lifestyle editor Gyan Yankovich on the use - and misuse - of therapy-speak, and how it’s changing our relationships.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After nine weeks of hearings involving 115 witnesses, the robo-debt royal commission report was published last week. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said Commissioner Catherine Holmes did not hold back in her assessment of the failings of former government ministers and senior public servants who implemented a scheme to claw back $1.7 billion from more than 500,000 welfare recipients. The Prime Minister said this report exposed the human tragedy of the scheme, and the government would work through the more than 50 recommendations. Today, federal political reporters Lisa Visentin and Angus Thompson on the robo-debt royal commission, and what happens next as the fallout from the controversial government program continues.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Government has promised to take on the housing crisis, but many are asking how they will deliver the new housing needed for our cities, and indeed where those new houses might be built.  The growing populations in Sydney and Melbourne mean increased attention is being paid to golf courses, as large, sparsely used pieces on land, often in prime locations.While golf courses look ripe for housing development, green groups and local communities often advocate that golf courses become public parks, for recreation and to cool the cities.  At the same time, golfing groups are fighting hard to keep the greens, upgrade courses, and to continue playing the sport as they always have.  Today, Michael Koziol and Royce Miller on housing, parks and the golf wars raging in our cities.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram released a new app: Threads. It became the most rapidly downloaded app ever, amassing a whopping 30 million downloads in just 16 hours.  Threads is a text-based social media conversation app similar to Twitter. In fact, some are calling Threads the “Twitter killer” because the similarities between the platforms are so uncanny.  So what’s behind Threads’ enormous popularity? Can it last? And will it spell the end of Twitter?  Today, culture editor Osman Faruqi on Threads, Twitter, and our never-ending desire for distraction.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For years now, fertility rates in Australia have been dropping. Access to cheap contraception, along with better education and career prospects meant women started having babies a little later in life - and fewer of them.  But now there are new reasons. Experts believe the most recent decline in the fertility rate is also a bellwether of unique contemporary challenges facing young workers.  Today, senior economics writer Matt Wade on whether young people are being forced to choose between having homes and having children.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's Barbie's world and Osman, Thomas and Mel are just living in it. On today's episode of The Drop, a conversation about Thomas' interview with Tom Cruise and a deep dive into the marketing hype around Margot Robbie's upcoming Barbie film, which has taken over the culture. Plus, a recap of the season finale of The Idol.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, we speak to actor Rachel Ward, the subject of our recent cover story Promised Land. The Thorn Birds star is married to Bryan Brown, lives on a property in the Nambucca Valley on the mid-north coast of NSW. And in the past three years, Ward has been on a transformative journey, away from traditional farming techniques, to a fully-fledged regenerative practice. And hosting this discussion, about regenerative farming’s role in reducing climate change and Ward’s upcoming documentary about her life on the land, is freelance writer Candida Baker.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this year, the federal government declared war on vaping. Health Minister Mark Butler announced a blanket ban on disposable vapes, vowing to rid Australia of the e-cigarettes that have ignited a health crisis among teens. It’s the biggest smoking reforms this country has seen in more than a decade, but there are now concerns that Australia’s world-first blanket ban on vaping without a prescription could actually make the problem worse. This week, our papers published private correspondence from some members of a government advisory body, who expressed concerns the government’s blanket ban would fuel the black market and end up criminalising more people unnecessarily. Today, federal health reporter Natassia Chrysanthos and Good Weekend senior writer Tim Elliott on Australia’s vaping problem - and whether the Albanese government’s harsh crackdown is a mistake.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In November 2020, a damning report about Australia’s Defence Force was published. Known as the Brereton report - it found credible evidence that our Defence Force had committed war crimes. This investigation shocked the nation, and led to a reckoning within our Defence Force - and the public’s perception of it. And there was one woman - Samantha Crompvoets - whose research kicked off the whole thing. But in doing so, she has had to pay a hefty price.  Today - Samantha tells us about that story, and why telling the truth came at such a cost.  This episode contains mentions of suicide. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Ashes, the most venerated contest in Test cricket, has descended into farce and controversy after a moment on the field led to questions about the game's spirit and the intervention of two prime ministers. If you're a casual observer of the sport, you'd be forgiven for wondering how the legal stumping of a batsman led to the abuse of players and a borderline diplomatic incident. So how has a dismissal on the final day of the second Test, upheld by the umpires and the rules of the game, driven an even deeper divide between players, coaches, fans, and yes, even prime ministers? Today on Please Explain, chief reporter at The Age, Chip Le Grand, on sportsmanship and cricket culture at The Ashes.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, the National Anti Corruption Commission (NACC) opened its doors. It is an independent agency that investigates and reports on serious corruption in the public sector. The timing is fortuitous, just as state-based integrity watchdog ICAC released its explosive findings about former NSW premier Gladys Berejiklian. While the PwC tax leaks scandal, and former Coalition minister Stuart Robert have been referred to the new national watchdog.  Today, federal political correspondent Lisa Visentin on whether the NACC will have enough teeth to stamp out corruption in Australian politics.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Taylor Swift is one of the most popular and critically acclaimed artists of her generation, winning over the hearts and minds of fans around the world with relatable and catchy lyrics about love, feminism and nasty break-ups. Now the 12-time Grammy-award winner is set to visit our shores for the first time in more than five years. And Swifitie mania is well and truly upon us, with millions of Australians trying last week to secure a ticket at her shows in Sydney and Melbourne.The incredible demand to see Taylor Swift has led to a political debate in Canberra over where she’s playing, and sparked a national debate about the economic impact of her tour.So what exactly does Australia’s obsession with Swift say about us? Today, culture editor Osman Faruqi on how a Taylor Swift concert can help us understand the state of our nation.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode, we speak to broadcaster Myf Warhurst about her eclectic career in radio and TV, including the music knowledge that made her both a Eurovision commentator and a Spicks and Specs favorite, as well as her current stage role playing the narrator in a new production of the Rocky Horror Show. Not to mention a recurring gig on the animated global hit Bluey.  Hosting the conversation - from being a foster parent and her documentary about menopause - is Good Weekend senior writer Melissa Fyfe.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our guest on Inside Politics this week is Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.  Jacqueline Maley and David Crowe talk to the Prime Minister about the nature of power, how it feels to wield it, the economy, the Voice, and Taylor Swift tickets. And he reveals that he didn’t meet a single Liberal voter until he went to university.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Treasurer Jim Chalmers confirmed that a decision on the next RBA governor will be made next month.  The current governor Philip Lowe’s seven year term is due to end in September. But there’s no guarantee his term will be extended - in fact some 52 per cent of Australians think Lowe should lose his job, according to a survey for our papers.  Traditionally, the position is handed to the deputy governor, but a scathing review into the RBA found the bank needs major changes, including a substantial cultural change. Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright on the top-runners for the position and what an overhaul of the RBA’s culture might look like.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been called the greatest threat to democracy. Indeed, a force so powerful, it could spark the end of human civilization as we know it. We’re talking about Artificial Intelligence.    Many people are, understandably, frightened. How could they not be, when even some pioneers in the field have rung the alarm bells themselves? No less than Steve Wozniak, co-founder of Apple, and Elon Musk recently called for a moratorium on the development of the most sophisticated artificial intelligence systems. This was only shortly after an AI-powered chatbot urged one journalist to leave his wife, in February this year. But what exactly is AI, in reality? And is it all bad?  Today, Technology writer Tim Biggs on the upsides to Artificial Intelligence, and how it’s already deeply embedded in our everyday lives. And what we should be worried about.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been a chaotic 48 hours in Russia that put the world’s most notorious leader, Vladimir Putin, in the crosshairs. Putin is no stranger to the headlines, but this story was different.The boss of the notorious Wagner Group, shocked the world by turning his band of ruthless mercenaries on the Kremlin and threatening to march on Moscow. It was a shocking display of belligerence from a man who’d long been an ally of Putin. Now the man who’s pulled Russia’s strings for decades faced, as he described, an act of “treason” from one of his own puppets.The chaotic events unfolded quickly and posed serious questions about Putin’s grip on power, the future of the war in Ukraine, and how a hotdog-selling warlord could turn Putin’s “secret army” against him. Today, Sherryn Groch on the man who challenged Putin, and Peter Hartcher on what it means for the Russian leader’s future.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When it comes to understanding trauma, we’ve come a long way from the bad old days. That was back in the 1980s, when we thought war veterans who struggled with flashbacks were suffering from brain damage. Now we know that trauma affects not only our memory, but our immune system. But have we gone too far? Trauma has become the word of our generation.  Justin Bieber has referenced it, in speaking about his first year of marriage. Characters who are haunted by their pasts are a hallmark of TV shows like Succession and Yellowjackets. Today, explainer reporter Sherryn Groch on what counts as trauma, and what doesn’t. And how trauma became the word of the decade.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, we speak with Nick McKenzie, an investigative journalist with The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald about his work with Chris Masters uncovering shocking alleged war crimes by former SAS soldier Ben Roberts-Smith – and the defamation case that followed. McKenzie, the winner of 14 Walkley awards, joins us to talk about criminals, victims and public-interest journalism as well as his new book Crossing The Line: The Explosive Inside Story Behind The Headlines, out June 28. Hosting this conversation is The Age senior writer and former investigations editor Michael Bachelard.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government wanted its $20 billion Housing Australia Future Fund legislated this week, but the Greens had other plans - they joined forces with the Coalition to defer the vote on the bill until October.  The Greens say they won’t support the bill until the government makes concessions - they want a national rental freeze and more taxpayer money directed straight into housing, as opposed to putting it into an investment fund.  The government has intimated that the blocking of the bill is the first step in setting up a double dissolution election trigger.  So, how will the government handle the first major roadblock to its agenda? What exactly are the Greens fighting for, and *who* are they fighting for? And are we really headed for a double dissolution election?  Today, economics correspondent Rachel Clun and chief political correspondent David Crowe join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics.  Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For nearly 50 years, women in the United States were protected, by federal law, from having to carry an unwanted pregnancy. They gained this right, in 1973, thanks to the historic Supreme Court judgement in the Roe v Wade case.  This held until nearly a year ago, when the current Supreme Court overturned that judgement. This weekend marks the one year anniversary of that groundbreaking decision.  So, what has life in the United States been like for women since then?  Today, North American correspondent Farrah Tomazin on how this decision has caused a seismic shift in American culture and its political landscape.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been a monumental week in parliament. Multiple allegations of sexual harassment have been made about a little-known Victorian senator, David Van. David Van has strenuously denied the allegations. But since they surfaced, a week ago, discussion about who knew about the alleged offences, and how they were managed, has dominated political debate. It’s taken us all back to the political earthquake that was set off in 2021, when former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins alleged that a colleague had raped her in a Parliamentary office. And now, it begs us to ask one vital question. Just how unsafe is parliament house, for women? Today, national affairs editor James Massola and federal political reporter Lisa Visentin on how politicians and journalists treat the rumours they hear in the corridors of parliament.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

HECS debt. If you’re to believe the countless news reports about it over the last few months, millions of Australians are about to be crippled by it.  But what if all the panicked headlines have been misleading us? And, actually, everything will be fine? Today, federal politics reporter Paul Sakkal, on why the current HECS system helps us, rather than hurts us. And what people worried about debt should fight for, instead.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Donald Trump became the first former president to be charged with federal crimes. He was arraigned on 37 counts related to his handling of classified documents. The top secret documents, which include information about nuclear programs and military vulnerabilities, were found spread throughout his Mar-a-Lago club and residence. Some documents were stashed in a ballroom, an office, and even in a bathroom.  While the former president has pleaded not guilty to all charges, this past week remains one of the most damning of his political career.  Today, US correspondent Farrah Tomazin on the second indictment of Donald Trump. And whether the Republican Presidential front runner could end up campaigning for his country’s top job from jail. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode, we speak to Lucinda Williams, the multiple Grammy-award winner based in Nashville, about everything from the power of protest songs to America as a divided nation, her outrage at censorship and the need for truth in art, as well as song-writing and the joy of collaborating with Bruce Springsteen. And hosting this conversation with Lucinda, about life after her recent stroke and writing her new memoir Don’t Tell Anybody The Secrets I Told You, is senior culture writer for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, Kerrie O’Brien.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She is the longest-serving woman in the House of Representatives - and has been, for many years, one of Labor’s most high profile politicians. Tanya Plibersek entered the federal parliament at just 28 years of age - and since then, has made a name for herself campaigning for social justice reform on issues like paid parental leave and violence against women. She’s held numerous portfolios, including Housing, the Status of Women, and Health.Last year, when the Albanese government was voted into parliament, she was handed a new portfolio - arguably the most difficult portfolio. She was appointed Minister for the Environment and Water - just as UN experts were warning that climate change was the greatest threat the world had ever faced.The new role has not come without controversy. Plibersek green-lit a new coal mine in Queensland, sparking criticisms from conservation groups, and just recently, she was taken to court over a decision she made about coal mine assessments.She’s also just lived through an incredibly feral week in federal politics, a week which has many wondering if progress has been made at all on parliament’s so-called women problem.Today, chief political reporter David Crowe and columnist Jacqueline Maley are joined by Minister for the Environment and Water, Tanya Plibersek.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was a criminal trial unlike any other in recent memory. Former Liberal party staffer Brittany Higgins alleged that she was raped by colleague Bruce Lehrmann inside Parliament House. Lehrmann strongly denied the allegation and pleaded not guilty after he was charged. But since that trial was abandoned last year, due to juror misconduct, the matter has become even more intensely political. Politicians have been lobbing accusations at each other, over who knew what about the allegation and when. Today, political columnist Jacqueline Maley on what happens when a rape trial becomes entangled in the world of politics.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, new polling results on the Voice came out. For the very first time, a majority of Australians federally say they’ll vote ‘no’ when the referendum comes in October.  This comes after months of polls showing that support for the ‘yes’ vote has held the majority. Just seven weeks ago, the ‘Yes’ campaign was ahead in every state and territory. Today, chief political reporter David Crowe and veteran pollster, Jim Reed, who conducted this latest, exclusive, poll, on whether this win is a reflection of swiftly changing values. Or in-fighting on the campaign trail.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The massacre of 28 Aboriginal people in 1838 was the first and only time in Australia when white people were arrested, charged and prosecuted for the mass killing of First Nations people. Those people killed at Myall Creek Station in northern NSW were women, children and elderly men known as Wirrayaraay, a tribal clan of the Gamilaraay nation. But while some publications held the perpetrators to account, our papers did not. 185 years on, The Sydney Morning Herald confronts the brutality of its own coverage of the Myall Creek massacre and two subsequent trials.  Today, editor of The Sydney Morning Herald Bevan Shields, columnist Peter FitzSimons and chief reporter Jordan Baker on attempting to right the wrongs of the past.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time since 1951, we’re enjoying a long weekend to celebrate a King’s Birthday, rather than a Queen’s Birthday.  We don’t yet know what sort of king Charles III will be. Or what impact he’ll have on the Commonwealth.  Today on Please Explain, we look back on an episode we originally aired on September 9 2022, the day after the Queen died. Special writer Tony Wright shares his experience meeting the Queen with Julia Naughton, head of Lifestyle, Culture and Travel and Europe correspondent Rob Harris, as they discuss a woman who was, until recently, the only monarch most of us have ever known. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In latest episode of Good Weekend Talks, we talk to Australian journalist and podcaster, Mark Fennell about his new SBS documentary, The Kingdom, which explores the rise of Hillsong church, a powerhouse in the Pentecostal movement, not just in Australia, but worldwide.The conversation examines everything from the show biz side of the congregation music lights, razzle dazzle, to the business model that brings billions of dollars into the church coffers.Hosting this conversation, on everything from Fennell’s upbringing in the evangelical movement to the confrontation and catharsis of making a doco about it, is Good Weekend senior writer, Tim Elliott.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The data is in. Australia’s economy is approaching stall speed.  Over the first few months of this year, the economy grew by just 0.2 per cent, the slowest rate of growth we’ve seen since the Covid lockdowns.  This depressing picture - courtesy of the national accounts figures out Wednesday - came right after the most recent Reserve Bank decision, to raise interest rates again, this time to 4.1 per cent.    It’s the 12th increase the Reserve Bank has announced in 13 months.  The worsening state of the economy is hurting households and ordinary Australians - with mortgages becoming harder to pay off, and cost of living pressures biting.  So just how bad a state is the economy in? Are we hurtling towards a recession? And who - or what exactly - is to blame?  Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright and chief political correspondent David Crowe join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kathleen Folbigg spent 20 years in prison for the death of her four children. For much of that time, she was pilloried as the worst female serial killer in Australian history. Then, on Monday, she was released from prison. In a news conference, the NSW Attorney General announced that Folbigg, now 55, had been pardoned.  Today, legal affairs reporter Michaela Whitbourn on what’s been called the largest injustice in Australian legal history, and what will happen now to the woman at the centre of it.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They could wipe 20 years off average life expectancy. And possibly return modern medicine to a pre-antibiotic era. We’re talking about superbugs, those organisms that have evolved to become resistant to modern medicine. They can cripple us. Or kill us. Right now, millions of people around the world are battling one. The United Nations estimates that by 2050, 10 million people will die every year from superbugs.Today, senior reporter Henrietta Cook on the rise of superbugs, or what one expert calls “the biggest public health threats of our age”.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A few years ago, Hillsong Church was a byword for glitzy and empowering faith. The global megachurch, which started in Sydney with one small congregation, was the church to the stars. Everyone from Justin Bieber to Chris Pratt worshipped at the church known for its rock concert-like services and gleaming pastors who sported gold watches. But in the last two years, the megachurch has been rocked by a series of explosive allegations. Tax evasion. A pastor fired for infidelity. And, worst of all, an alleged cover-up of the paedophilia committed by the church’s co-founder, Brian Houston. Today, onetime megachurch member Cherie Gilmour on the growing number of so-called “megachurch refugees”, and the lasting emotional fallout.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2018, our newspapers published a story titled ‘SAS soldier accused of killing innocent villager'. It was the first of many articles, which eventually identified Australia’s most decorated living soldier Ben Roberts-Smith, and accused him of multiple murders of unarmed civilians.  Roberts-Smith proceeded to sue our newspapers - in what’s become known as the defamation trial of the century. It went for more than 100 days, and examined more than 40 witnesses. And on Thursday, a judgement was finally delivered.  Federal Court Justice Anthony Besanko ruled overwhelmingly for our newspapers, finding Roberts-Smith was, on the balance of probabilities, a murderer, a war criminal, a bully, a liar, and a disgrace to his country and the Australian military.  Today, the journalists who broke these stories, Nick McKenzie and Chris Masters, join Tory Maguire to discuss what it took to win the biggest defamation case in Australia’s history - and what this victory means for journalism.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

News outlets win defamation case against Ben Roberts-Smith. And earlier this week, Mark McGowan announced that he would be stepping down as Western Australia’s premier. How much has McGowan’s way of doing politics impacted the Labor party - and Anthony Albanese?  Plus, there are now calls for former cabinet minister, Stuart Robert, to face the government’s new anti-corruption watchdog.  Today, WA Today's state political reporter Hamish Hastie, and chief political correspondent for The Age and SMH, David Crowe join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The top tax expert at Price Waterhouse Coopers, one of the big four consulting firms, helped the Australian government create a pioneering tax law that would finally crack down on multinational companies that were avoiding paying tax here.  At the very same time, that expert shared that confidential information to help the firm’s clients avoid paying that very same tax. This betrayal, which one senator has likened to a “major cancer”, was revealed in January this year. But since then, we’ve heard bombshell finding after bombshell finding. Today, economics correspondent Rachel Clun, on what you need to know about this bad deal of the century. And whether the worst is yet to come.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A week ago, Clare Nowland, a 95-year-old great grandmother, died after being tasered.  She weighed 43 kilograms, and suffered from dementia. The case has shone a spotlight on NSW Police, which is now battling to regain control. Today, state political reporter Michael McGowan, on who should police the police. And why calls for greater oversight have a history of being ignored. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For millennia, Wreck Bay, a tiny Indigenous village on the south coast of NSW, was paradise. But in the last few decades, a remarkable number of residents have died or become sick. They’ve suffered from heart attacks, kidney disease and cancer after cancer. Today, investigative reporter Carrie Fellner on the toxic chemicals that locals argue have poisoned Wreck Bay, and why the Australian government hasn’t banned these dangerous chemicals.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warning: This story contains graphic content. We finally know what happened in the missing persons investigation that captured a nation. Melissa Caddick, the fraudster who stole $23 million from her closest family and friends, is dead. So said the deputy state coroner, who handed down her report last week. But how did she come to this finding? Until now, all we knew was that Caddick’s right foot had washed up on the shores of a remote beach. This was shortly after she went missing, nearly two and a half years ago.  Today, investigative reporter Kate McClymont, on what we now know - and what we’ll never know - about what happened to Melissa Caddick.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The week in parliament has been dominated by debate over the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. The legislation enabling the Voice referendum was introduced to the House of Representatives, and more than 80 MPs spoke during the debate on the bill’s second reading.  Opposition leader Peter Dutton kicked off the debate with a no-holds-barred attack on the proposal, saying it would “re-racialise” Australia, and would have an Orwellian effect, making some Australians more equal than others.  Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used his speech to denounce the remarks made by Dutton. He accused the Leader of the Opposition of seeking to amplify misinformation about the Voice.  Today, federal political reporter Lisa Visentin and chief political correspondent David Crowe join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the latest developments over the Voice to Parliament debate. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever since Scott Morrison was booted as prime minister, exactly a year ago this past weekend, the rumour mill has been in overdrive. When will he leave politics? Calls for his resignation have been coming since Morrison was accused of undermining our democracy. That was last year, when we found out he had secretly appointed himself to five senior ministries when he was in power. Today, national affairs editor James Massola joins Samantha Selinger-Morris to discuss what happens when a former PM won’t exit stage left.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Stan Grant announced that he would be leaving the ABC and standing down as the host of its Q+A program. His decision, and the torrent of abuse that prompted it, has led to a reckoning about how responsible the media is for the racism that pervades our culture. Today, culture news editor Osman Faruqi joins Samantha Selinger-Morris to discuss Stan Grant, the ABC and Australia's racism problem.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Warning: This episode contains graphic content. Australia will soon embark on a debate about whether the government should step in to restrict children’s access to online pornography. For many advocates, it’s not a minute too soon. While the link between young people watching pornography and real-life harm has been disputed for years, numerous experts now say that this long-held truth is starting to come undone. Among them is a president of a children’s court here who now sees sexual assault allegations that frequently feature choking. It is just one piece of evidence, she says, that suggests how violent porn is being enacted in the bedrooms of teenagers throughout Australia. Today, chief reporter Jordan Baker on what a new report into this issue has found, and the pressure that many teens now feel to steer clear of so-called “vanilla sex”.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He's known as the Mr Big of trafficking and for the last few years Binjun Xie has cultivated a lavish lifestyle in Sydney off the back of human misery. Evidence suggests that the crime syndicate boss has been exploiting women in an illegal prostitution ring here, moving them around like cattle from one hotel to another.  But did it have to be this way? A report leaked last week reveals that Australian government authorities have failed to heed warnings about corrupt officials within our immigration and education systems, who have enabled such sex rings and human trafficking to flourish.  Today, investigative reporter Nick McKenzie on just how easily crime bosses like Binjun Xie have been able to game our visa system, and the secret and scathing report that aims to hold them to account.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Sunday, the Albanese government will have been in power for one year.  When Prime Minister Anthony Albanese became Prime Minister, he made big promises. He said “no one left behind and no one held back” under his government. And that he would “seek common purpose and promote unity” among Australians. So what exactly has this government achieved so far? Has Albanese lived up to the optimistic promise of his election night victory speech? And what upcoming problems are likely to bring the government’s honeymoon period to an end?  Today, political commentator and author Niki Savva and chief political correspondent David Crowe join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the Albanese government, one year in. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was meant to be a moment of great triumph for Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. American president Joe Biden was due to visit our shores next week for a historic meeting, in what would have been the first Australian visit by an American president in a decade. But yesterday, less than nine hours after Albanese confirmed Biden's visit, the American president cancelled.  National correspondent Matthew Knott tells Samantha Selinger-Morris why Biden pulled out, and what it means for the relationship between the two countries.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Billionaire tech boss Elon Musk takes a version of it. Model Julia Fox has denied using it. We’re talking, of course, about the new weight-loss drug that has swept the globe. The weekly injection that helps people feel fuller on less food. It is now, say local doctors, shockingly easy to get. But is Ozempic, and other drugs like it, medical magic? Are they the first medications to produce double-digit weight loss without crippling side effects?  Or are the drugs and the new online shops now selling them fostering a new generation of patients who will end up suffering unintended consequences?  Today, technology editor Nick Bonyhady joins Samantha Selinger-Morris to discuss the potential - and the dangers - of the weight loss drugs that are sweeping Australia. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thanks to recent queries from an independent senator, we now know that nearly 1,800 people have been granted access to lobby our federal government. The kicker? We don’t know who they are.  Under a system that is now under great scrutiny, these people have unfettered access to the private corridors of Parliament House in Canberra. With their bright orange passes granted to them by politicians, they have the ability to wander into the offices of ministers, backbenchers and independents at any hour. Today, chief political correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, David Crowe, on why we are prevented from knowing who is influencing those in power, and just how serious a threat this might be to our democracy.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The “cost of living crisis”. It’s a phrase we constantly hear at the moment. And it was the centrepiece of the budget the federal government handed down last week. But what does that mean for families on the ground who were struggling to make rent and put food on the table for their children, even before the recent record-breaking spike in inflation? Today, Sydney Editor Michael Koziol takes us inside one community cafe that exposes Australia’s devastating cost of living crisis.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before the budget was handed down earlier this week, Katy Gallagher - the Minister for Finance, Women and the Public Service - tweeted that Labor is, “backing Australian women with the most significant single-year investment in women’s equality in at least the last 40 years”.  Gallagher said that’s because equality for women isn’t an add-on or a nice to have. That it’s crucial for our prosperity. But what exactly has Labor promised women? And were they really “winners” in this year’s budget? And, while the government has put billions of dollars into bulk-billing - which many GPs claim they can no longer afford to do - there is no guarantee doctors will cooperate with the government’s plans.  Is there any way the government can police bulk billing? What are doctors saying about this budget measure?  Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe and economics correspondent Rachel Clun join Jacqueline Maley to discuss the week in politics. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis from Jacqueline Maley. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here.  Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many listeners may have seen recent articles - and there have been many - about how One Nation MP Mark Latham recently wrote a homophobic tweet, aimed at another politician. It could lead to Latham being charged with a criminal offence, or even sent to jail.  But how did it come to this, for a politician who was once close to becoming our Prime Minister?  Today, state political editor of The Sydney Morning Herald, Alexandra Smith on the damage Mark Latham has wreaked on others during his political career, and just what it takes for a parliamentarian to lose their power.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last night, Treasurer Jim Chalmers handed down the Labor government’s second federal budget.  While it forecast a $4 billion surplus – the first surplus in 15 years – it also laid bare the challenges the economy is facing, both here and globally. Today, David Crowe and Shane Wright join host Tory Maguire to discuss what the budget will do to ease the economic pressures, who it will help, and what it can tell us about Labor's priorities. #breakingnews #news #budget2023 #auspol #australia #finance #budgetSubscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A sudden outbreak of violence in Sudan, beginning last month, has killed hundreds of people, and trapped millions in their homes. Bodies lie in the streets and the sounds of gunshots reverberate off concrete walls torn with bullet holes. Many fear starvation. Amid this chaos are hundreds of Australians. More than 230 of them have already been evacuated, but an unknown number are still struggling to leave. Today, senior writer with The Age, Bianca Hall, on the conflict in Sudan - and the Australians stranded there.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Disposable vapes will be banned under a major crackdown by the federal government, with Health Minister Mark Butler calling it “the biggest loophole in Australia’s healthcare history”.  The emphasis will be on quote “the people selling” with tougher border controls, policing - and millions of dollars invested in nicotine cessation support programs. But this isn’t the first time we’ve seen the government attempt to curb vaping. So will the new reforms be enough to stop a new generation of vapers in their tracks? Today, federal health reporter for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Natassia Chrysanthos on Australia’s vaping problem.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.