Politics is full of surprises but few people expected abortion policy to be back on the agenda in 2024. The fierce abortion debate in the United States has been turbocharged by the upcoming presidential election.  Now the fight over reproductive rights has made its way to Australia.  Abortion has been a surprise issue in the Queensland election campaign. It was also the subject of an attempted legislative rollback in South Australia last week. Now it is being put on the federal agenda by high-profile Opposition front-bencher Jacinta Nampijinpa Price. Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss is federal political correspondent Paul Sakkal, and federal politics reporter Natassia Crysanthos.  Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faced a diplomatic test over the last week. And according to some, he failed. He had to choose between a long-standing invitation to the inauguration of the new president of Indonesia, while on the same weekend, King Charles and Queen Camilla were visiting Australia. So who did he choose? And who is more relevant? Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on the implications of choosing to spend time with one head of state over another. And why Albanese’s choice reignites a half-century long debate about Australia’s very identity.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s not something we probably think about too often - just how much scientific studies impact our lives, in all sorts of ways. That they underpin the medicine that our doctors prescribe to us. And what our psychologists tell us about how we can best parent our children, or discuss conflict with our partners.  But how often is that science trustworthy? According to one researcher, not as often as you'd think. Today, national science reporter Liam Mannix, on a new finding that says one in seven scientific studies are fake. And the bizarre experiment that led to this revelation.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It shouldn’t be much of a surprise that a space like LinkedIn, a professional social media site, is being used by powerful men to try to attract women. In this case, it’s allegations against not just any powerful man, but one of Australia’s richest. Billionaire Richard White is the chief executive of Australia’s biggest listed technology company WiseTech Global, and he has also been described by one woman as “The LinkedIn Lecher”. White, on the other hand, says he is unaware of any women who have been made to feel uncomfortable about his comments on LinkedIn. Today, investigative reporter Kate McClymont on the allegations against the rich-lister and why reporting on it matters.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Maybe, just maybe, there’s a very good reason the polar opposites on the political spectrum - the left and the right - can’t see eye to eye. Scientists say there is some evidence that says left-wing and right-wing brains are actually wired differently. And here’s a twist, British actor Colin Firth, perhaps best known for his role as Mr Darcy in Pride and Prejudice, was the reason behind the research. Today, science reporter Angus Dalton, on whether this evidence - in a time of intense political rifts - can give us hope that these differences are not as drastic as feared.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s probably our greatest national obsession. Property: buying it, selling it, how much it costs and how hard it is to afford.  This week Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made headlines when it was reported he had bought a $4.3 million ocean-front beach house at Copacabana on the NSW Central Coast.  Albanese said the purchase was made in contemplation of his changing personal circumstances. He is set to marry his partner Jodie Haydon, who grew up in the area and whose family still lives there.  But the optics were unbelievably bad. Australia is in the midst of a cost of living crisis, and the related housing affordability crisis is one of the main, if not the main, issues for the next election. Joining Jacqueline Maley to unpack all this is chief political correspondent David Crowe and national affairs editor James Massola.  Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When a 49-year-old man was arrested in California on Monday, after trying to enter a Donald Trump rally with a car equipped with fake licence plates, a couple of illegal guns, and a load of ammunition, it made history.  At least according to the local sheriff, who said his staff had foiled a record-making third assassination attempt on Trump. Police believe the suspect was part of a movement that considers the American government illegitimate. Today, international and political editor, Peter Hartcher, on why the suspect would want to target the very candidate who most wants to dismantle much of the government.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There may be a whopping 160 million Americans who will vote in the upcoming presidential election. In just three weeks. But it’s only thousands of people, in a handful of swing states, who will likely determine who wins the top spot in the White House. North America correspondent Farrah Tomazin has been travelling to some of these areas and speaking to voters on the ground. Today, she reveals what they’ve told her about how near-assassinations, and a natural disaster, among other issues, might sway who they choose. And if they’re ready for a female president.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One year ago, 16 million Australians voted and made their voices heard. The vast majority of us did not want to alter our constitution, in order to enshrine an indigenous voice to parliament.  So, what now for the Indigenous children who returned to school afterwards, to what they felt was a harsher country, as one ‘yes’ campaign advocate put it? And what do the leading ‘No’ advocates have planned instead, to improve the lives of indigenous Australians? Today, chief political commentator David Crowe and federal political correspondent Paul Sakkal on the psychological and emotional impact of the last year on Indigenous leaders and communities. And what sort of damage Anthony Albanese might still yet suffer, as a result of this crushing defeat.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Friday, King Charles III and Queen Camilla will arrive in Australia for their first visit since Charles became the reigning monarch. Charles, it’s safe to say, has one of the more scandalous personal histories in a long line of monarchs. Who can forget so-called “Tampon-gate”, back in 1989? Certainly not journalist Tony Wright. A reporter for five decades, he has a unique insight into the relationship between Australians and the royal family, having witnessed Charles and Diana-mania, first-hand, when he lived near the Woomargama station outside Albury, where the pair stayed during their iconic visit to Australia in 1983. Today, Wright joins me to discuss whether the monarchy has any relevance to our lives now. And just how much - or how little - Australians realise that Charles is actually King of Australia.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A year on from the stunning October 7 attack by Hamas on Israeli towns, our parliament - on the other side of the world - is again convulsing over the widening war. As Prime Minister Anthony Albanese jets off to the influential ASEAN summit in Laos, he is trying to lower the temperature on a polarising domestic debate about antisemitism and Australia’s level of support for Israel’s invasion of Lebanon. One of the most prominent Australian backers of the Palestinian cause, Labor defector Fatima Payman, has started a new party just days after Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton split on the question of how to commemorate the October 7 attack. Today, political editor and international editor Peter Hartcher and political reporter Natassia Chrysanthos join Paul Sakkal on the fallout from the October 7 motion. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China has experienced a mass exodus before. People fled the country, for instance, after the collapse of Chinese nationalist Chiang Kai-shek’s regime in 1949. But lately, the country is seeing something new. Millionaires, in particular, are running away in record numbers. And taking jaw-dropping amounts of wealth with them. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher, on how Chinese president Xi Jinping - the most repressive leader the country has had in decades - might respond to a trend that’s being seen by some as a humiliating blow to the country. Audio credit: 'Quiet quitting' was happening in China before the rest of the world caught on, CNBC International. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Humans, we know, are full of contradictions. Even so, the disconnect between what we’re shown in the media, about how Australians feel about the war in the Middle East, and what people themselves say, is surprising.Record numbers of Australians, for instance, turned out around the country over the weekend, to protest the war. And the Greens, it would seem, have galvanised support for their party over their full-throated support for Palestinian rights. But exclusive results from our latest survey suggest a far more complicated picture.Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe, on what Australians are really feeling about this conflict. And how it might sway the next Federal election.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are the classic autocracies that we know well - like China and Russia - but what would it take to morph a democracy like the United States into an authoritarian country? It’s a question that’s not so far-fetched for the States, a month out from its presidential election, and it’s one that Pulitzter prize winning journalist David E. Sanger has been grappling with. So with a second Donald Trump presidency looming large, what are the chances that Trump could turn the United States into an autocracy, or something close to it? Today, Sanger, the national security correspondent for The New York Times, on what he has learned about autocrats in his more than 40 years of reporting.   Further reading: David E. Sanger's 'New Cold Wars'. Audio credit: President Clinton's China visit, AAP Donald Trump: 'We need a military operation' to stop border cartels, News Nation Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been a year since Hamas attacked Israel, in a vicious and sometimes sadistic assault. The murder of innocent civilians sparked a severe and sustained counter strike by Israel on the Gaza Strip, which is struggling with mass deaths and famine. We don’t know how, or when, this war, which recently spread to Lebanon, will end. Israel is now locked in a battle against Hezbollah, the Iran-backed terrorist group in Lebanon's south, while Iran itself has twice launched missile attacks on Israel. But what has this conflict done to the long-term prospect of peace in the Middle East? Is it as catastrophic a set-back as the 1995 assassination of Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin? Foreign affairs and national security correspondent, Matthew Knott, travelled to Israel and the West Bank, in October last year. And he’s just returned to the region. Today, he joins me to discuss how this war has impacted some of the most bitterly divided groups in the world.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wanted to talk about the budget surplus and the crack-down on the big supermarkets over their alleged ill-treatment of customers this week, but that was derailed by the escalating conflict in the Middle East.  While the government struggled to find the right form of words to respond to the crisis between Israel and its neighbours, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton labelled the Prime Minister weak, and said he needed to stand more firmly with Israel.  The result was an ugly week where both men vied to position themselves to voters as the best leader to handle a crisis, showing off their very different styles.  Deputy federal politics editor Nick Bonyhady and federal political correspondent Paul Sakkal join Jacqueline Maley to discuss. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been  the question on everyone’s minds, since Iran launched a direct attack on Israel on Wednesday, shooting dozens of ballistic missiles into the country. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to retaliate. And Iran has warned that any retaliation will result in a “more crushing and ruinous” response.  Today, international and political editor, Peter Hartcher, on how this attack differs from Iran's first attack on Israel, earlier this year. And if Benjamin Netanyahu might see this moment, as one former Israeli prime minister said this week, as “the biggest opportunity in the past 50 years” to change the face of the region.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The suicide of a 12-year-old Sydney school girl last month sent shockwaves across the country. It became the tragic flashpoint for a national discussion about bullying in our schools, and the complex set of issues facing students, parents, teachers and administrators. Bullying in schools isn’t a new problem, but according to experts it remains a major one. And in Australia, it’s been notoriously difficult – and oftentimes, costly – to tackle. Today, chief reporter Jordan Baker on the culture of bullying in our schools, and what needs to change.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new conflict has opened up on the troubled border between Lebanon and Israel. It started with pagers and walkie talkies exploding in the very hands of their owners, and then it moved to airstrikes - the deadliest in decades - before the latest news that Hezbollah's leader Hassan Nasrallah was killed. Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent Matthew Knott on the likelihood of an all-out war between Israel and Lebanon.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, we were confronted with our latest economic report card. On the upside, the Reserve Bank announced that our annual inflation rate has sunk to its lowest level in three years. But then an Australian economic think tank released its so-called “Misery Index”, and said that Australians are living through the most protracted period of economic misery since 2011.Today, economics correspondent Shane Wright, on whether we’re headed for economic relief… or a recession. And if Australia is behind other countries, when it comes to bringing down inflation.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Federal politics got interesting this week when our very own James Massola and David Crowe reported that the Labor government has asked the Treasury to model cuts to negative gearing tax concessions, a policy that has previously caused Labor plenty of electoral pain.  The Prime Minister and his frontbench are being very coy about any proposed changes to the tax treatment of investment properties.  Are changes to negative gearing an option the government is really considering? How would they argue the case to cut the concessions this time, given they have tried and failed to do so before? And would changes to negative gearing make any difference to house prices anyway? Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss are chief political correspondent David Crowe and national affairs editor James Massola.    Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many of us can’t keep our eyes off of what’s happening in the Middle East, with a disturbing escalation of violence in Lebanon. But, according to International and Political editor, Peter Hartcher, the conflict that has a greater likelihood of threatening our safety here, is the one that is growing by the month, between China and many countries, including Australia. Today, Hartcher discusses the disturbing new video released by the People's Republic of China. And the former Australian prime ministers who have rung the alarm bell when it comes to this threat.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is a multi-billion dollar industry in Australia. And it’s been touted as a key way for us to eventually reach net zero carbon emissions.But our carbon credit schemes are also riddled with predatory behaviour, according to a year-long look into the market by our journalist, Charlotte Grieve. Particularly harmed, she says, are remote Indigenous communities. Their burning practices, which date back 60,000 years, are the golden standard within the carbon credit industry. The pay they receive for this practice has the power to transform these communities, where jobs are scarce. Today, investigative journalist Charlotte Grieve, on how this ancient knowledge, and the practitioners who are hoping to pass it down to younger generations, are being exploited. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For years, one of Australia’s best known crime reporters, John Silvester, kept a secret.He knew there had been a significant development in a notorious and long unsolved cold case: The Easey Street murders.But he didn’t write anything about it, until a few days ago, when he broke the story that there had been an arrest.It was big news, most of all for the family of Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett, school friends from the country who flatted together in Collingwood before their lives were violently and cruelly taken.Today, John Silvester takes us behind the scenes of the police investigation, the arrest and why he kept quiet on the case for so long.For more: Easey Street suspect unmasked as link to victims emerges, John Silvester et al, The Age. John Silvester's new book, 'Dark City', is out now.  Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As investigative reporter Patrick Begley puts it, it’s an apology that those Peter Dutton offended can’t remember, which he won’t repeat and doesn’t like to discuss. And some wonder whether he ever made it at all. It all centres on something the opposition leader said a while ago: “The reality is that Malcolm Fraser did make mistakes, in bringing some people in in the 1970s.” Today, investigative reporter Patrick Begley on the mystery of the Peter Dutton apology.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Albanese government came to power promising to ease the housing crisis by increasing supply. But has its housing agenda stalled?  This week, the Greens hardened their opposition to two key elements of the government’s housing policy.  The Prime Minister has urged the Greens to “get on with it” and wave the plans through. So will Labor be able to secure its agenda? And if not, who will pay the political price?  Plus we have a look at the war of words between the business lobby and the government. Is this just the usual tension we often see between a Labor government and corporate interests? Or is it something more significant?  Joining Jaqueline Maley to discuss, is federal political correspondent Paul Sakkal and chief economic correspondent Shane Wright.Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What obligation does the Australian government have to help retrieve its citizens from debilitating circumstances, overseas? This question will be at the heart of a High Court case on Monday, which will help decide the fate of 12 Australian women, and their 22 children, who’ve been languishing in refugee camps in Northern Syria for five years. To those who have opposed bringing them home, the women are a threat - the family members of slain or defeated Islamic State fighters who may believe in dangerous ideologies. But to those who say they should be repatriated, they are victims of war.  Today, associate editor and special writer Deborah Snow on what distinguishes these women from those before them, who were successfully brought home to Australia.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the next week, while you and I are sleeping, members of the Murdoch family will be duking it out in an American courtroom over control of one of the most powerful media empires on the planet. It’s the latest escalation in a civil war that has been building within the family for years.   Today, media writer Calum Jaspan, on why Rupert Murdoch has pitted one of his children, Lachlan, against three of his other kids. And how the outcome of this case will impact all of us.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nine weeks after Republican candidate Donald J Trump was almost killed at a rally in Pennsylvania, the FBI is investigating another attempt on his life. Trump was on his golf course in Florida on Sunday afternoon when Secret Service officers spotted a man with an AK-47 hiding in the bushes a few hundred metres away. In the aftermath, Vice President Kamala Harris said: “Violence has no place in America”. Her running mate, Tim Walz, declared: “It’s not who we are as a nation”. But, isn’t it? Today, North America correspondent Farrah Tomazin on how, when shocking forms of violence are so commonplace, another attempted assassination almost feels normal. And why that't not OK.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It's arguably the most shameful stain on Australia's military. In 2020, an inquiry concluded that there was credible information implicating 25 special forces personnel in alleged war crimes in Afghanistan. Four years on, the finding is still reverberating.  Last week, Defence Minister Richard Marles announced he would strip medals from a number of senior officers who served in Afghanistan. The move has drawn the ire of some veteran groups who argue no action should be taken until any charges are proven against soldiers.  Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent Matthew Knott on what the announcement means, and why one of the country's most famous special forces soldiers, Ben Robert Smith, still has his Victoria Cross medal.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Snapchat is officially on notice. As are Instagram, Facebook and TikTok.  This week the Prime Minister and his communications minister Michelle Rowland announced they will introduce a ban on young people using social media. But they were short on detail, including exactly what age the government would require teens to be before they could access social media.  Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton promised the minerals industry that a Coalition government would be the “best friend” of miners.  Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss, is chief political correspondent David Crowe and shadow communications minister David Coleman. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was one of the most highly anticipated debates in modern politics: a verbal showdown between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. Because for millions of Americans, the stakes couldn’t be higher. For many, a Trump win will stoke fears of a more autocratic United States. And for countless others, a Harris win would mean a move against conservative beliefs. Today, North America correspondent Farrah Tomazin on how the candidates, who were neck and neck before the debate, might fare now. And the viral moments we can't stop talking about.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deep in the snowy mountains is a tiny town called Nimmitabel. It’s almost smack bang in the middle of Sydney and Melbourne, it’s got a school, a pub, a couple of churches – enough for a few hundred people. It’s the sort of place you move to start a fresh chapter of life, to feel part of a community, where literally everyone knows your name and drops round a casserole or a jar of freshly made jam. And Nimmitable is all of those things, but it’s also something else: a place where a man by the name of Andrew Thaler, a serial political candidate and serial pest, is bullying and threatening women. Today, Jordan Baker on the tiny town with the big problem, the man at the centre of it, and the women who’ve had enough.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In terms of bizarre court cases, investigative journalist Kate McClymont has covered a few. But this most recent one, which ended in the conviction of colourful construction boss George Alex, was right up there. There was a soapie star turned doctor, who gave evidence that jail was a “terrible idea” for George Alex. Then there was an arrest warrant issued when Alex failed to appear at court in person, but rather, logged on from his hospital bed. And then, maybe most bizarre of all, were some strange events within the jury itself, with allegations of drug dealing and failed pay-offs investigated by police. Today, Kate McClymont on the case had it all. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia's major union for construction workers, the CFMEU, has long been known as hardline in the way it went about its business. But a couple of months ago, investigative journalist Nick McKenzie's stories revealed damaging accusations that the union, which regularly overseas government funded work sites had been infiltrated by organized crime.  Even before the story broke on 60 minutes and in our mastheads, it triggered the resignation of the Victorian construction union boss John Setka.  But Setka will not go without a fight, and last week, he appeared at prize government worksites to rail against the move to place the Union under administration.  Today, Nick McKenzie on what the surprise appearance of the former Union boss means and what it will take to clean up the CFMEU.   Further reading: - Nick McKenzie and The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald's 'Building Bad' series.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week’s National Accounts figures showed that GDP growth was the weakest annual figure since the 1990s recession, not counting the pandemic.  Treasurer Jim Chalmers said the soft growth reflected the “impacts of global economic uncertainty, higher interest rates and persistent but moderating inflation”. But Chalmers also seemed to blame the Reserve Bank, saying the RBA is “smashing” the economy with interest rates.  Meanwhile, The Age and SMH exclusively reported this week that Prime Minister Anthony Albanese vented his frustration to his cabinet colleagues over the mishandling of the possible new census questions about gender and sexuality.  Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss, is chief political correspondent David Crowe, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright, and national affairs editor James Massola. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mass protests erupted in Israel over the weekend - in one of the biggest displays of wartime dissent in Israel’s history - after the bodies of six Israeli hostages were found in a tunnel in Gaza. The Israeli Defense Forces said the hostages had been murdered by Hamas, only a short while before Israeli troops were able to reach the captives. Today, former army officer, and current Middle East analyst, Dr Rodger Shanahan, on whether these deaths, and protests might compel Benjamin Netanyahu to negotiate a ceasefire.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is going on with the crazy weather right now? In some parts of the country, the temperature is icy, while in others the heat is breaking records. Then there’s the wind; so fierce, it’s killed one woman, hospitalised another, and left tens of thousands of people without power. Today, environment reporter Caitlin Fitzsimmons, on what’s driving these conditions. And whether we’ll soon see relief, or, instead, bad bushfires, and a scorching summer.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cartoonist Cathy Wilcox once said that cartooning is an art form crying out for attention.  The domain of attention seekers who, when they were young, were the kind of kids to foist their drawings in their parents' faces, for approval. Maybe so, but during Wilcox’s many years of drawing cartoons for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, she’s also been our conscience. She’s made us do double takes about some of the most vexed, and perplexing issues of our time. Like discrimination, and violence against women. Today, Cathy Wilcox, on how she's used cartooning to help navigate the last couple of fraught years. And which cartoon led people to call her a “bully”.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra was plunged into turmoil last month after it cancelled the performance of a highly acclaimed pianist, who had made comments on stage about the war in Gaza. Artists within the orchestra protested. The director resigned. And Midnight Oil frontman Peter Garrett has been enlisted to conduct a review of what happened. Today, the journalist who broke the story - senior culture writer Kerrie O'Brien - takes us behind the news and delves into the age old question of whether art and politics should ever be separate. Correction: In this episode, we referred to composer Richard Wagner as a "Nazi sympathiser". Though Wagner was infamously known as Hitler's favourite composer and expressed anti-Semitic views, he died in 1883, long before the formation of the Nazis. We apologise for the error. Further reading, listening and credits: 'Legal stoush between MSO and sacked pianist escalates', The Age, Kerrie O'Brien. Jayson Gillham speaks after MSO boss steps down, ABC Radio Melbourne, Rafael Epstein.  Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Albanese government has told the university sector it has to slash foreign students by 53,000 places by next year. The universities say this will financially devastate them, but the government has pledged to halve net migration by next year, and something has to give.  Plus, this week, members of the militant CFMEU hit the streets in major capitals to protest the Government’s decision to place the controversial union into administration.  Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss is chief political correspondent David Crowe and Australian National University professor Andrew Norton. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

He’s the fifth member of the Kennedy clan to run for the American presidency. But, notably, the only one to have dumped a bear in Central Park, as a prank. Even so, Robert F Kennedy Jr was, for months, a thorn in the side of Joe Biden and Donald Trump and, more recently, Kamala Harris. All feared that he could siphon votes from them. And ruin their bid for the White House.Today, international and political editor, Peter Hartcher, on what power RFK Jr has to sway the election, now that he’s suspended his presidential bid, and thrown his weight behind Donald Trump. And just how much damage he’s doing to the Kennedy family legacy.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new American study has found microplastics in brain tissue, at levels up to 30 times higher than in other tissues in the body. This comes after years of disparate research, which has found microplastics in other parts of the human body, like the heart and the placenta.Today, science reporter Angus Dalton on whether this is, as one toxicologist has put it,  a “global emergency”. And whether microplastics might have been acting, for decades, as the “dark matter” driving all sorts of health issues, like dementia and plunging male fertility.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When two American astronauts took off from earth on June 5, it was meant to be a triumph. Not just for the astronauts, who would spend a coveted eight days on the International Space Station, but also for Boeing, the company that created the spacecraft to ferry astronauts to and from the station for research. Almost three months later, the astronauts are still stuck in space, and unlikely to come back down to Earth until next year. Today, digital foreign editor, Chris Zappone, on what caused the mistake, and what effect the incident is having on the new space race. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The allegations are hard to stomach. The women tell stories of rape, harassment and being encouraged to use drugs. The men were offered a special prize if they were the first to have sex with a customer. Today, investigative reporter Eryk Bagshaw and Good Food reporter Bianca Hrovat on the dark side to the alleged debauchery at high profile venues like Restaurant Hubert and the Baxter Inn. And whether these latest allegations about a number of venues, all owned by one group, Swillhouse, might spark a wider reckoning in the business. There is no suggestion that Swillhouse CEO Anton Forte assaulted or harassed employees.  And a warning, some of the content in today’s episode might distress some listeners. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special episode of Inside Politics, Treasurer Jim Chalmers sits down with Jacqueline Maley, chief political correspondent David Crowe and senior economics correspondent Shane Wright to talk about tax, housing and the cost of living crisis. The Treasurer acknowledges how high mortgages are impacting ordinary Australians, and talks about what the Government is focusing on in the upcoming mid year budget. Plus he shares some words of wisdom he lives by every day. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Finally, finally, Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have unveiled some economic proposals. This, after the presidential nominees have spent weeks obsessing over non-issues like crowd sizes at rallies... and the campaign itself.  Right out of the gate, Trump has attacked Kamala Harris as going, “full communist”. But what does Donald Trump have in mind? Today, reporting from the National Democratic Convention in Chicago, International and Political editor, Peter Hartcher, on the benefits, and dangers, of the nominees’ proposals. And the simmering tensions below the surface of the Democratic party's celebrations.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been called one of the worst mishaps in NSW Liberal Party history. Because, last week, 140 Liberal politicians learned that they will miss out on the chance to fight for their party in upcoming council elections. All because of an administrative error.It’s a debacle that could tarnish the reputation of the party as a whole. And even marr Peter Dutton’s bid to become Prime Minister, at the next federal election, which is due within months.Today, state political editor Alexandra Smith, and national affairs editor, James Massola, on what local councillors actually do. And what impact this might have on our right to fair and democratic elections.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year, the United Nations’ annual climate change talk has all the makings of a dysfunctional family dinner. Azerbaijan, the small petrostate which is run by authoritarian rule, only landed the gig to host the talk after an unusual prisoner swap. And intervention by Russia. Meanwhile, participating countries like Ukraine and Russia, are at war with each other. Today, national environment and climate editor, Nick O’Malley, who visited Azerbaijan to witness the country's preparations for the talk, on how countries navigate competing agendas in order to help us all survive climate change. And the moral loophole Australia has been clinging to, that it might soon be pressured to give up.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, the leader of Australia’s opposition party Peter Dutton called for a ban on visas for all Palestinians from war-torn Gaza, saying the potential security threat was too great. It set off furious debate, and was condemned as divisive and heartless by some, while others said such a ban should apply, but only to Hamas supporters. While this argument continues, we go to Gaza, where life has become almost one big queue for survival as families spend their days lining up for daily rations of water and food. All while trying to stay well and safe amid the spread of disease and continued bombardment. Today, an aid worker with Oxfam, Bushra Khalidi, speaks to us from the West Bank about her family’s life in Gaza. How common support for Hamas is there, and what she thinks of the debate about visas for Palestinians in Australia.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a six-week break over winter, the Parliament was a fiery place this week. Labor framed the next election as one between the “mainstream vs the maddies”, and the opposition is homing in on its framing of the prime minister as dishonest. But, as has been the case so many times in the past year, the parliament again convulsed over the war in Gaza. Opposition leader Peter Dutton started a sharp immigration row when he called for Palestinians to be blocked from Australia because they may sympathise with Hamas. The vehemently pro-Israel leader sought to portray Labor as weak on the Gaza issue by questioning their approach on the refugee intake. But how will this play out in electorate, and how has the government responded? Joining Paul Sakkal are chief political correspondent David Crowe and home affairs and immigration reporter Natassia Chrysanthos.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When former White House deputy national security advisor, Matt Pottinger, issued a warning to global leaders the other day, he didn’t mince his words. Those who still entertain the idea of a ‘stable’ relationship with Chinese president Xi Jinping are “smoking dope”. To do so, he says, means they haven't really been listening to Xi Jinping, about his aims for world domination. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher, on the dangerous message that China sent out, the other week. And which global leaders, according to Matt Pottinger, need to rethink their relationship with China.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They are arguably one of the most brutally persecuted group in the world. The Rohingya people, a Muslim minority in Myanmar, have been abused, discriminated against, and murdered for decades. And, just over a week ago, the group experienced what is thought to be its worst massacre in years. Hundreds of people, including many women and children, were killed in a drone attack while trying to flee their village. South-East Asia correspondent Zach Hope, who is on the ground in Thailand, has spoken to witnesses of the attack, whose loved ones have been murdered.Today, Zach Hope on Myanmar’s so-called “forgotten war”. And whether an emboldened alliance of rebel armies might help spell the end of the country’s brutal military junta.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the trial that a Supreme Court judge never wanted to hear. Over many months, Justice Marcus Solomon warned of the “human cost” of a prolonged and highly public trial if former defence minister Linda Reynolds made good on her threat to take her former staffer, Brittany Higgins, to court for defamation. And so it has come to pass. Reynolds, who has mortgaged her home of 40 years to pay for her legal costs, says she has been nationally vilified.  Higgins, who is now pregnant, has yet to take the stand, but has reportedly sold her home in France - where she moved to start a new life - to defend herself. Today, WA Today reporter Jesinta Burton, on the toll that suing one of Australia’s most public rape victims - as found by the civil courts - might have on both women. And to what end.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Four people currently face jail time of up to 15 years, after being criminally charged in Sydney last month with conspiracy to manipulate the stock market over a messaging app. So far, so usual. Potential scammers are always lurking among us. We know this. But here’s the kicker. Only hours after that group’s charges were made public, a completely separate cohort created their own WhatsApp group to try and rope other unsuspecting Australians into engaging in the same crime. It’s an indication of just how common these scams are now. And how brazen the people behind them are.Today, senior reporter Sarah Danckert on how to spot these scams. And how they damage the rest of our own bank accounts, even if we’ve never been targeted ourselves.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week the boss of the Australian spy agency, ASIO, lifted the terror threat level from possible to probable. The last increase in the threat level was in 2014, and it was in response to Islamic extremism.  This time, the risk to society is different - it is the risk of young men, especially, being radicalised online by a grab-bag of conspiracy theories and far-right grievances, and carrying out a lone wolf attack.  So what are the social conditions that have led to this evolving threat to our safety? And what can our security agencies do to make us safer?  Plus, we take a look at the decision by the Reserve Bank to leave rates on hold and the effect this will have on the fortunes of the Albanese government.Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is the largest living structure on earth. And has been around for 600,000 years. But new research out today, shows that the Great Barrier Reef is experiencing the highest ocean heat in 400 years. And this comes after five mass coral bleaching events. So why has the UNESCO World Heritage committee decided against putting Australia’s most famous environmental landscape on the 'in danger' list? For the third year in a row? Today, climate and energy correspondent, Mike Foley, on the politics that are putting the Great Barrier Reef close to a point of no return.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It has become the story of the Paris Olympics. How many people have been harmed, in the case of Algerian boxer Imane Khelif? And how badly? Over the last week, the 25 year old boxer’s body, mind and spirit have been dissected and condemned by powerful voices, far beyond the sporting arena. Donald Trump, JK Rowling and Italian prime minister Giorgio Meloni have, variously, said that Khelif is a man who enjoyed the “distress” of watching her Italian rival crumple to the ground of the boxing ring after only 45 seconds. That Khelif has no business competing in the Olympics against women.But Imane Khelif is not a man. She is a woman, who has always identified as female.Today, reporting from the Olympic Games in Paris, chief reporter Jordan Baker on the sporting and geopolitical conflicts that have led to one female athlete falling into the global spotlight. And what it says about those of us watching on.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For more than a week, riots have spread across the United Kingdom, targeting Muslims, and immigrants. And in their wake, the attackers have set buildings and vehicles on fire and left communities in a state of fear. But how did a stabbing rampage, in a seaside English town, spark what have become the worst riots in the UK in more than a decade? Today, world editor Nick Ralston, on the real-time violence and terror that have resulted from a devastating misinformation campaign. And how the far right has been exploiting a horrific crime in order to advance its agenda.   Audio credit: The Southport stabbings: A week that shook a nation, ITV News Southport stabbings: ‘Lies and propaganda’ on social media led to violence, Times Radio Further reading: The obscure Russian-linked ‘news’ website that is fuelling violence on Britain’s streets, Lauren Sheriff, The Telegraph. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia is officially in a baby drought.  We’ve experienced our biggest drop in annual births since 1975. Back then, it was due to soaring inflation, low growth and the proliferation of the birth control pill. So what’s happening now? And what does it mean for us, considering - as one French philosopher put it - demography is destiny? Today, senior reporter Josh Gordon, on which city is having the least babies. And what happened to our most recent baby boom, only a few years ago. Archive audio credit:- ABC's Australian Story Cost of living 1970 with Caroline Jones- Making ends meet, Thames TV To read more: - 'Melbourne in the grip of baby drought as rent becomes 'great contraceptive'', Josh Gordon, The AgeSubscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australians are buying way less stuff. Households are draining their savings.  Yet at the same time, we’ve been hearing months of warnings that the Reserve Bank might again hike mortgage rates. That all changed on Wednesday when a key data set was released. It showed the prices of goods and services were still rising higher than we would like, but not quite as quickly as some feared. Today, senior economic correspondent Shane Wright joins Paul Sakkal to unpack what the latest data tell us about our economy, and whether mortgage holders might see some relief.    Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Commentators have been in a frenzy over JD Vance’s comments about “childless cat ladies” who live “miserable lives” and therefore have less worth, not just as people, but as voters. But to some senior figures in the Republican movement, they’re missing the far greater threat that JD  Vance poses.Today, international and political editor, Peter Hartcher, about how Donald Trump’s vice presidential pick is helping to turn the one-time conservative Republican party into a counter-revolutionary movement. And, specifically, one that views Democrats not just as a political threat. But a physical one, too.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So it’s that time of year again, the Olympics, when we all become armchair experts in sports like gymnastics, diving, and the 100-metre sprint. But who to focus your sights on, when you can’t watch every event? Is it Simone Biles, who will be competing this year, after dropping out of the last summer games, amid enormous personal stress? Or, perhaps Matildas midfielder Katrina Gorry, competing after welcoming her second child only six weeks ago? Today, in a bonus episode, senior sports reporter Emma Kemp on what excites her about the Olympics, after so many years covering the event. And which Australians to watch out for.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cost of energy generation went up over winter. That doesn’t mean power bills are about to spike however - retail prices are set once a year by a regulator, which means that households aren’t about to see a change in the cost of their electricity any time soon.  But the increased cost of generating power could have big impacts on the economy, politics and households. Also, two long-serving Labor ministers are retiring from politics, ahead of the next federal election. Indigenous Affairs Minister Linda Burney, and Skills and Training Minister Brendan O’Conner will leave parliament at the election, and the Prime Minister will use their retirements to reshuffle his cabinet this weekend. Today, climate and energy correspondent Mike Foley and national affairs editor James Massola on what government’s are doing to fix our energy market and what a reshuffle means for Labor.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kamala Harris has yet to officially secure her party’s nomination to vie for the American presidency. But her campaign is well and truly underway. Visiting her new campaign headquarters the other day, Harris invoked her early career as a prosecutor, and said that she knows how to fight Donald Trump, because she'd so often seen his "type" in the courtroom. By which she meant: predators, fraudsters, and cheaters. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher, on whether Harris' plan to sell herself as a huge step forward, socially, might work with voters across the political spectrum. And if the character trait that foiled her presidential campaign in 2020, might now be one of her greatest assets.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For more than 45 years, John Silvester has been reporting on Australia’s criminal underworld.  Some notable figures, like Mick Gatto, a key player in the gangland wars that were immortalised in the popular TV series, Underbelly, are now implicated in an investigation that has rocked the highest offices in the country. That of alleged corruption in the CFMEU, one of the most powerful unions in the country.  Why have so many of our politicians allegedly turned a blind eye to underworld figures running a cartel-like operation in the union? Today, John Silvester gives us an inside look into the psychology of the underworld figures who have managed to charm and intimidate the rich and the powerful.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joe Biden has finally stepped down after weeks of pressure, to contest the U.S presidential election. And he has endorsed his vice president, Kamala Harris, to run in his place. But who is she? And what does she stand for? Today, North America correspondent Farrah Tomazin, on Kamala Harris’ strengths, and weaknesses, as a presidential candidate. And what history tells us might happen next, after a sitting president pulls out of a re-election campaign.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Paris Olympics begin this Friday, and France is contending with what security experts have described as the most volatile geopolitical environment in decades. Among the worries keeping the French government up at night are the looming threats of nuclear conflict with Russia, potential sabotage by foreign agents, the war in the Middle East, widespread protests and terrorism plots. Meanwhile, blocking cyber attacks on the Games has almost become an Olympic sport in itself.  Today, crime reporter Marta Pascual Juanola on what security measures are in place, to keep civilians and athletes alike, safe. And whether tension at the games could spill over into a wider European conflict.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Unions and Labor are intertwined. The oldest Labor Party in the world traces its roots to the shearers strike of the 1890s.  At that time, powerless workers decided to band together to create a political party and take on big business. The aims of unions underpins a lot of what Labor does when it holds power. Many of its MPs worked for unions. But what happens when one misbehaves? Misbehaves badly. There have long been suggestions and reports of bully-boy tactics in the rough world that is the building industry. But reports in The Age and SMH revealed so much more than the odd bad apple. Labor is already sagging in the polls. A new union scandal now threatens to derail the government’s winter agenda and opens it up to the long-standing charge of being too close to trade unions. Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe and political reporter Angus Thompson join Paul Sakkal to discuss the CFMEU scandal and what it means for the government.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is JD Vance? And why has Donald Trump chosen him as his preferred vice president? Vance is, famously, a former 'Never-Trumper'. The junior senator from Ohio was once so violently opposed to Trump, that he likened him to Hitler. Today, political and international editor, Peter Hartcher, reporting from Washington DC, on the wider message Trump is sending to the world, with his choice of running mate. And why the United States has a long history of presidential assassinations and assassination attempts (hint: it’s not just about the guns). Audio credits: Rachel Maddow on MSNBC Further reading: Assassination in the USA: Why does America take aim at its leaders? Trump anoints his heir in a bid to extend his influence for decades to come Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Opposition leader Peter Dutton says nuclear energy is the cheapest, most consistent and cleanest energy around.  But if that’s the case, then what to make of the dirty history of 'Nukey Poo', a little-known nuclear reactor that was built in our region in the 1960s?  Today, climate and energy correspondent Mike Foley fact checks the Opposition’s claims about nuclear energy, and delves into the latest poll about what voters want and how this might impact the Coalition's desire to usher in nuclear energy, And later, national environment and climate editor Nick O’Malley on what happened at ‘Nukey Poo’, and the cancer cases linked to it.Credits: The Federal File and U.S Navy/Atomic Energy Commission on the installation of 'Nukey Poo'. PeriScope Film and the Antartic nuclear reactor at McMurdo Station. Further reading: Mike Foley's 'Nuclear debate is getting heated, but whose energy plan stacks up?' Nick O'Malley and 'The dirty history of Nukey Poo, the reactor that soiled the Antartic.' Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is one of the most powerful unions in the country. And has long barracked for rights that are at the core of the Australian Labor Party: decent pay and working conditions.But now, an investigation by The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes has revealed that underworld figures and bikies have infiltrated the union, and major building projects in Victoria and NSW.Today, investigative reporter Nick McKenzie on the sudden resignation of controversial CFMEU boss John Setka, in the wake of these allegations. And whether it’s possible to rid the union of corruption, and a culture of standover tactics and bullying.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Sunday morning, Australian time, we woke to the news that Donald Trump was shot at a rally in Pennsylvania.  We saw the images of him with blood streaming down his face, and shortly after, his fist raised in a seeming show of triumph.  It’s the first time an American president, or presidential candidate, has been shot at in 43 years. That was then-American president Ronald Reagan. He nearly died. Afterwards, commentators speculated that his grace under fire helped him solidify the support and affection of the American people.  Today, in a special episode, North American correspondent Farrah Tomazin, on what happened in Pennsylvania. And how this might impact the presidential election.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They’re worn by the hundreds of lobbyists who are granted access to the building and the politicians who work inside it.It’s a lucrative business - lobbyists charge handsomely to help big firms get access to large federal deals. And with billions of dollars of government contracts up for grabs - including $22.7 billion for Labor’s made in Australia plan - a new class of Labor-allied lobbyists has emerged. This has heightened concerns about the power of top lobbyists and renewed calls for more transparency about the access they get to the country’s decision makers. Today, Chief political correspondent David Crowe talks to Paul Sakkal to discuss this lobbyland and the rise of Labor insiders becoming guns for hire, as well as the emergence of a new group called The Muslim Vote that is also trying to influence politics.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should Donald Trump win the presidential election in November, what might he do? Will he halve the US defence budget, thereby threatening allies, like Australia, that rely on the United States for protection? Or perhaps, as Trump once asked his most senior defence staff, he should “bomb the hell out of Iran?”This last anecdote is one that Chris Miller, the one-time defence secretary during the Trump administration, relayed to international and political editor Peter Hartcher, in an interview earlier this week.Today, Peter Hartcher, currently on the ground in Washington DC, on what insights Chris Miller gave him about how Donald Trump might go about trying to achieve his goals, during a second term as president.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When four people were found dead last week in one home in outer Melbourne, there was one common link. The same synthetic opioid was detected in all four bodies. Since then, government authorities, and various experts have sounded the alarm. A new synthetic drug is on our streets. It’s contaminating other recreational drugs. And it’s hundreds of times stronger than heroin. Today, general practitioner and addictive medicine specialist, Dr Paul MacCartney, on the growing risk of an opioid crisis in Australia.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More Australians than ever are now holding down more than one job. It’s just one example that illustrates the perfect economic storm that surrounds us. A toxic mix of growing mortgage repayments and rents, plus broad inflation. So, what’s the way out for those in financial distress?  Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright on when we might next see an interest rate cut, or rise. And what it means that the Reserve Bank governor has gone a particularly long time, without giving a speech.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, the United States Supreme Court ruled that former presidents are entitled to immunity from prosecution for “official actions” they undertook while occupying the highest office. The impact of this historic decision could shred crucial parts of the court cases against Donald Trump, as he vies for presidential election in November. Will the court decision mean he is now above the law, or, is there a good reason to protect both former and sitting presidents from prosecution?  And with conservative judges behind this ruling, did ideology play a part? Today, North American correspondent Farrah Tomazin explains what was behind the decision, and the impact it could have on Trump’s upcoming trials, and even, more broadly, on American democracy.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a tumultuous couple of weeks in Canberra, senator Fatima Payman has quit the Labor party. On Thursday, Payman emotionally announced her decision to leave the party that helped her gain a senate seat in the 2022 election, saying she had exhausted every option to raise her concerns about the government’s position on Palestinian recognition. Today, political correspondents Paul Sakkal and Angus Thompson talk to Jacqueline Maley about the split between Payman and the Labor party and its ramifications.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nell Geraets is a journalist for The Age and she’d seen all the news about financial scams. That Australians were reporting more scams than ever, and that they were becoming more elaborate, more sophisticated. She was convinced it would never happen to her, or someone she knows. Then her parents were scammed. Today, Nell Geraets on the HSBC investment scam that trapped her parents, the shame they felt by falling victim, and how they overcame it.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fake reviews, bogus conversations with unsuspecting users and exposed private messages - are just some of the goings on at dating app Down, according to a whistleblower. And Down is one of scores of dating apps scrutinised as part of an investigation by The Age that found increasing concerns from consumers and experts about the industry’s conduct. Today, investigative reporter Clay Lucas on dating apps’ last-ditch attempt at survival, as a growing number of users walk away from the apps.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australians should see more money in their bank accounts at tax time, with the start of what’s called stage 3 tax cuts taking effect from this week. But this benefit is looking like it could be wiped out, and quickly, with new research showing that middle income earners will be paying more tax as early as 2025. Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright explains how much money you could see back in your pocket immediately. And why Australians could be paying more tax in just a couple of years.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s no one quite like Donald Trump. He heralds himself as the saviour of the economy, while experts seriously wonder if he'll drive the country into financial crises. He questions climate science even as his supporters faint at his rallies from the pre-summer record heat. So what would another term of Donald Trump in the White House mean for Australia, the global economy and the environment if he wins the presidency? Today, in our second episode of a special Monday series, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright talks through the impact of Donald Trump's plans for the economy. And later, national environment and climate editor Nick O’Malley on how Trump’s antipathy towards combatting climate change might impact not just Americans’ quality of life, but ours, tooSubscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"My name is Julian Paul Assange." These were the first words spoken by the Wikileaks founder and high-profile long-time former prisoner as he finally faced court to answer charges this week. Assange accepted a deal to plead guilty of violating US espionage law and appeared on Wednesday in a court in the obscure US Pacific island territory of Saipan.  He was sentenced to time already served and boarded a flight home to Canberra, Australia. He arrived home on Wednesday evening to a cold Canberra evening, a triumphant fist raised.  So how big a political coup is Assange’s release? Who has been working on it and for how long? Why has Albanese made it a project of his government?  And, the temporary defection of Labor Senator Fatima Payman to the Greens. Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss is chief political correspondent David Crowe, national security correspondent Matthew Knott, and live from Saipan, North Asia correspondent Lisa Visentin. 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.

What will it take for Benjamin Netanyahu to lose his grip on power? He holds the record in Israel for most time served as prime minister: three stints, over 16 years.  But now, he is deeply unpopular; held responsible, by many Israelis, for not only the deadly October 7 attack, by Hamas. But also for turning his country, in the years before then, into a profoundly unsafe place to live. Today, international and political editor, Peter Hartcher, on whether Benjamin Netanyahu’s announcement that the most intense stage of fighting in the south of Gaza is nearly at an end, could finally spell the end of his political career.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the news broke yesterday morning that Julian Assange had been set free from a London prison, the buzz spread immediately through parliament house in Canberra.After spending more than a decade in prison or hiding, what exactly, had Assange agreed to plead guilty to? And will he finally come home to Australia?Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent, Matthew Knott, on how the case that changed politics and journalism, forever, finally came to an end. And what the ripple effect might be, on both domestic and American politics.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Victorian education minister Ben Carroll announced, earlier this month, that his government had mandated a change in the way teachers instruct children to read, he admitted that he was potentially “stepping on a hand grenade”. He was entering the long-running “reading wars”, which have pitted teachers, principals, and parents against each other. Today, education editor Robyn Grace, on why one union has ordered its teachers to disobey the government’s mandate. And whether the new method will help remedy the inadequate reading proficiency of too many Australian children.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's no one quite like Donald Trump. He has torn up long-standing treaties, threatened to abandon allies, indulged his rivals and shook America's stability as the centerpiece of Western democracy. So what would another term of Donald Trump in the White House mean for Australia and the global world order? In a special Monday series, our journalists examine his impact on trade, security, climate change and the economy, as well as who Australia's most influential lobbyists will be.  Today, international editor Peter Hartcher and foreign affairs national security correspondent Matthew Knott on how the long standing relationship between the United States and Australia might be thrown off kilter by a Trump presidency, and how our power brokers should handle Trump's mercurial temperament. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week Opposition leader Peter Dutton unveiled the Coalition’s plans for its nuclear energy policy. In doing so, he drew the battle lines for the next election, with the Albanese government firmly backing in its own plan to lower emissions using renewable energy sources, particularly wind and solar. Plus, this week Australia hosted a visit from the Chinese Premier Li Qiang. So did the visit improve relations with our largest trading partner, or set them back?Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe, national climate and environment editor Nick O’Malley and national affairs correspondent Matthew Knott, join Jacqueline Maley.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Chinese Communist Party has long used unconventional means to improve strained relationships. In the 1970s, this meant sending ping pong players to the United States, to encourage the country to lift its embargo against China. (It worked.)So it was that China pledged, over the weekend, that it would loan one of our zoos two so-called therapy pandas. That’s right, pandas.Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher, on how this diplomatic strategy went down in Canberra. And the skirmish in Parliament House that highlighted the perennial tensions between Australia and its largest trading partner. Which might take a lot more than therapy pandas to fix.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s less than five months to go until the American presidential election. And the race between Joe Biden and Donald Trump is neck and neck, with one recent poll putting Trump ahead by less than one point.  Both are geriatric candidates. And they face the same challenge. How will they attract the youth vote?  Today, world editor Nick Ralston, on which young celebrities are most likely to sway voters. (A hint: it’s no longer Taylor Swift.) And whether former Neighbours star Holly Valance might influence a political shift to the far right.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A music teacher was fired from her Christian school in Sydney this year - all because a parent discovered she was in a same-sex relationship. The firing was all perfectly legal, under a law that the Australian government promised - but has so far, failed - to scrap.  The law change aims to protect LGBTQ teachers and students, but also promises to walk a tricky tightrope to allow religious schools the right to hire teachers who accord with their faith.  The issue has dogged successive governments for years with politicians trying, and failing to implement the bill.  Today, federal health reporter Natassia Chrysanthos on why it’s still legal for gay Australians to lose their jobs, because of their sexuality. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The climate change wars heated up, last week, after opposition leader Peter Dutton announced that, if elected to government, he would dump the current emissions reduction target for 2030. Activists, and even a member of Dutton’s own party, recoiled. This move, they said, may breach our commitment to the Paris Agreement - the treaty committed to fighting global warming. Today, national climate and environment editor Nick O’Malley on what the Paris Agreement is all about. And why political infighting might damage not just our economy and our environment, but our ability to defend ourselves, too.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, opposition leader Peter Dutton indicated he would not commit to a climate change target for 2030 until after the election. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hit back, saying the Coalition policy would mean energy shortfalls and higher bills. This development sets up the next election as a battle between the major parties on global warming. Also, there has been discontent among Liberal party members - particularly senator Hollie Hughes, who was recently kicked off a winnable spot on the senate ticket. Today, national affairs editor James Massola and chief political correspondent David Crowe join Jacqueline Maley to discuss what these climate battle lines mean. 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.

As supermarkets across the nation have begun rationing eggs, some consumers are showing signs of panic. Nagi Maehashi, the founder of the popular food blog, RecipeTin Eats, put it this way, earlier this week: “We cannot afford to waste a single egg any more.” Today, science reporter Angus Dalton, on whether we’re headed for an egg shortage and skyrocketing prices, like in the United States. And what you need to know, now, about eating chicken and eggs.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The United Nations is in the news almost daily now. Particularly about the war in Gaza. But what exactly does the organisation do? Because, increasingly, the world has questions about its capabilities and its relevance. Are the directions of the world’s peacekeeper even binding? And why can’t it stop the fighting in Gaza and Ukraine? Today, explainer reporter Angus Holland on what the United Nations is able to achieve in wartime.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Our country has just received this year's first economics report card and the news is not good. The last time the Australian economy was this slow - outside of the pandemic - was the very early 1990s, when then treasurer Paul Keating famously announced that Australia had entered a recession. Are we now teetering on the edge of another one? Many news reports suggest as much. And just last week, treasurer Jim Chalmers acknowledged that many Australians are suffering through "uncertain times”. Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright on what’s causing our economy to grind to a near halt. And whether this might soon lead to another interest rate hike.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last month, Tuvalu and Australia confirmed a landmark climate and security pact, which would allow 280 Tuvaluans to migrate to Australia every year. The Falepili Union marks the first time Australia has offered resettlement rights due to the threat posed by climate change. But the new migration pathway will leave many Tuvaluans facing difficult questions: stay or go? How does the diaspora preserve their culture and language in the face of a disappearing homeland? And what happens to a country without land?Today, social affairs editor Jewel Topsfield and regional editor Ben Preiss read their feature titled ‘Tuvalu is being swallowed by the ocean. Its people face a difficult choice.’Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amid the national debate about immigration levels, it was reported this week that yoga instructors, martial artists and dog handlers have been put above some construction trades on the nation’s draft priority skills list for migrants.  This is despite a desperate need for tradies to build more homes to address the nation’s housing crisis.  Plus, a look at another important skills shortage - in our armed forces. Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss all this is chief political correspondent David Crowe and national affairs editor Matthew Knott. 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 far-right populist-turned TV presenter Nigel Farage made the bombshell announcement, on Monday, that he’d be vying for a seat in the British parliament in the upcoming election, the media had a field day.Hadn’t Farage, one of the architects of Brexit, announced, just weeks before, that he wouldn’t be running? And this, after a total seven previous tilts at a seat in the House of Commons over the last 30 years. All unsuccessful.And this was before Farage was splattered with a milkshake, thrown by a protester, on his first day of campaigning.Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on why Nigel Farage, though on the fringe of politics, still poses a threat to British society. And the rise of the far-right across the globe.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When rumours began swirling over the weekend that former federal treasurer Josh Frydenberg might be poised to return to politics, fiery commentary broke out on both sides of the political spectrum. Did Frydenberg - or those loyal to him - want to muscle out of contention a young, Oxford-educated woman who had already won pre-selection to contest the Victorian seat of Kooyong, in the next election? As one woman put it, “Women are not collateral damage for Josh Frydenberg’s regrets”.   Today, columnist Jacqueline Maley on Frydenberg’s spot in the sunshine after a two year-retreat from public life. And whether this latest political powerplay has benefited, or harmed, the former treasurer and the Liberal party.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two weeks ago, news broke that Darren Wick, the former head of Channel Nine’s news and current affairs division, had been the subject of a complaint from a female staff member, who alleged that the news boss had behaved inappropriately towards her. Since then, the number of allegations has grown. Around a dozen former and current staffers at the Nine network, which owns this masthead, have alleged verbal or physical misconduct by Wick.  Today, chief reporter Jordan Baker, on the impact that Wick’s alleged behaviour has had on the female staffers at the organisation. And the so-called “culture of silence” that enables sexual harassment to occur.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the ultimate unthinkable. A father of three drives his children off the road and into a dam. The car sinks. And the father is the only person to get out alive. All three children drown. That father, Victorian man Robert Farquharson, has been in prison for the murder of his children, for much of the past 19 years.  But could he have been wrongly convicted?  On the eve of a lawyer launching a new appeal, a group of scientists, doctors and lawyers are arguing that key parts of the evidence that convicted Robert Farquharson don’t stack up.  Today, investigative reporter Michael Bachelard on following the rope of evidence that convicted the father of three, and the new information that may unravel his prosecution altogether.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s finally happened. In a court decision that breaks with 247 years of American history, Donald Trump has become the first former president of the United States to be criminally convicted. Because, earlier today, a jury of 12 New Yorkers found that Trump was guilty of falsifying business records. What do business records have to do with this infamous hush money trial, involving an adult film star? And can a felon still run for the American presidency? Let alone serve from jail, if Trump - who is currently ahead in many states - were to win in November? Today, in a special episode of The Morning Edition, North America correspondent Farrah Tomazin, on how this conviction may reshape the 2024 presidential race.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Albanese government faced relentless pressure this week as it scrambled to replace a ministerial direction linked to tribunal decisions that has allowed serious criminals to stay in Australia. The Prime Minister has also been forced to defend embattled Immigration Minister Andrew Giles in parliament - as public servants revealed some criminals including murderers and sex offenders were not required to wear ankle monitors under immigration detention laws. The Coalition has stepped up its calls for Giles to go, detailing cases where the Administrative Appeals Tribunal allowed non-citizens to stay in Australia, despite their history of often violent offending. Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss these developments is chief political correspondent David Crowe and migration reporter Angus Thompson.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, last week, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced a snap national election for early July, the derision came thick and fast. First, it was because he made his announcement, in front of 10 Downing Street, while being pelted with rain. Without an umbrella. But then came his first election promise.Should the Tories be elected, all 18 year olds will go through compulsory national service, in a bid to create a “renewed sense of pride” in Britain. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher, on Rishi Sunak, and whether this proposal has any chance of rejuvenating his party, which, as one commentator recently put it, is “facing an extinction-level event”.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Opposition leader Peter Dutton has immigration numbers squarely in his sights. Lower the number of immigrants in this country, he has said, and we will see an improvement with all sorts of social challenges. This won’t just help fix our dire housing crisis. But it will also help people get in to see a GP, and finally gain a spot for their child at kindergarten. His policy was the cornerstone of his budget reply speech, two weeks ago. But since then, his speech - and the coalition - have come under fire. For promoting a populist idea that will fail to address these struggles. And, even worse, possibly fueling racist sentiment. Today, columnist Jacqueline Maley on the Coalition’s cornerstone policy, which it plans to take to the next election. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We are used to hearing bad news when it comes to the environment.  And it's for good reason. The world’s temperature is rising at an alarming rate, our air is full of pollutants, species are becoming endangered and then, extinct.  But, we are here to deliver some good news, on the Australian initiatives that are making a difference.  Today, climate and energy correspondent Mike Foley on the three good news stories about our environment.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From The Age and Sydney Morning Herald, Trial by Water is a new investigative podcast series about Robert Farquharson, who has been locked up for decades for an unthinkable crime: murdering his three sons in a dam on Father’s Day, 2005. Now scientists and lawyers are asking the question: did we get it wrong? And is this man in prison for a crime he didn’t commit? Episode 1 will arrive on Saturday, June 1.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the last few months, a new wave of avian flu has been raging across the world.  In the United States, the strain has been found in cows, and it has also reached far-flung Antarctica, infecting penguins, seals and polar bears.  So far, transmission to humans has been extremely rare, and Australia remains the only continent in the world to keep the virus out. But last week, health authorities confirmed a Victorian child had been critically ill with another strain of the virus, becoming Australia’s first-ever case of human bird flu. Today, science reporter Angus Dalton on the alarming new cases of bird flu in Australia. And what the risks are to us.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week we look at two stories about our public servants. The first story is about the faceless kind of public servant who toil in government departments, and the second story is about the political public servants at the heart of the Albanese government, as we discuss the different public and private roles of ministers.  Joining Jacqueline Maley is national affairs editor James Massola and senior economics correspondent Shane Wright. 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 years, it has been the biggest question in geopolitics. Who will win the struggle for world domination? China? Or the United States? American president Joe Biden has dubbed it the “fight to win the 21st century”. But behind the grandiose rhetoric, there is one tiny country stuck in the middle of these two superpowers. Taiwan, the independent country that China claims as its own. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on how Taiwan’s new president - a former political ‘hot-head’ inaugurated earlier this week - might manage his country’s struggle for sovereignty. And his citizens’ growing fear of invasion.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s not everyday that an Australian artwork gets thrust into the global spotlight, let alone becomes a punchline on a hugely popular American late night talk show. But all that changed last week, after news broke that Australia’s richest woman demanded that her portrait be taken down from the walls of The National Gallery of Australia, in Canberra. Today, investigative reporter Eryk Bagshaw, who helped break this story on why it’s gone viral, and how Gina Rinehart’s lengths to remove the portrait speak to the heart of Vincent Namatjira’s artwork, a satire about wealth and influence.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran state media confirmed on Monday that president Ebrahim Raisi died in a helicopter crash on a foggy mountain side in a hard-to-reach corner of north-west Iran. Was his death an accident, or not? And might it escalate the ever-growing tensions between Iran, and Israel, its sworn enemy, which some have speculated is behind the accident? Today, digital foreign editor Chris Zappone on the hard-line cleric who oversaw a morality crackdown in Iran that led to nationwide protests. And what impact his death could have on stability, or instability, in the wider region. For more, see the BBC's 'Mahsa Amini: How one woman's death sparked Iran protests'. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Defence force whistleblower David McBride was jailed last week for more than five years for leaking documents to the ABC.His information formed the basis of what became known as the Afghan Files, which aired allegations war crimes were committed by Australian soldiers in Afghanistan.McBride has been lauded as a poster boy in the fight for greater protection for whistleblowers in Australia, but, like many of our whistleblowers, it’s not so simple.So, who is David McBride? Heroic whistleblower, or, something else?Today, Good Weekend senior writer Jane Cadzow on the dichotomy of the whistleblower. Cadzow’s profile of David McBride: https://www.smh.com.au/national/david-mcbride-on-whistleblowing-his-famous-dad-and-a-possible-jail-sentence-20240129-p5f0vq.html?collection=p5f0ve&gb=1 ABC’s The Afghan Files: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-07-11/killings-of-unarmed-afghans-by-australian-special-forces/8466642 Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The government handed down its third federal budget this week, and it was the usual blizzard of figures.  Treasurer Jim Chalmers gave us hand-outs, grand plans for the future and some heroic predictions on inflation figures.  Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe and national affairs editor James Massola join Jacqueline Maley to unpack the budget as a political document - will it help the government win the next election, and will the voting public believe all the promises made about the future of the economy? 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.

As global outcry continues for the war in Gaza to end, after more than seven months, Hamas and Israel have reached an impasse. Recent ceasefire talks failed. And both sides are struggling. Much of Hamas’ fighting forces have been killed. And Israel’s main ally, the United States, just made the remarkable step of beginning to limit its supply of arms to the country. So, where to from here? Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on how this war can end, when both sides now know that it’s unwinnable.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was always going to be a particularly tricky federal budget. Amid a cost-of-living crisis, the Albanese government had been tasked with providing relief to Australians, but without causing inflation to rise. Which would have the dreaded impact of leading to yet another interest rate rise.So, did treasurer Jim Chalmers nail his brief? And what are the government’s priorities? Is it women, those suffering amid the housing shortage, and students with debt, as it had previously promised, among others? And who’s been left in the cold?Tonight in a special episode recorded in the lock-up in parliament house, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright on the main winners and losers of this year’s budget. And if this budget is really an early election pitch for the Albanese government.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the case of Elon Musk versus Australia’s E-Safety Commissioner, the billionaire owner of social media platform X had a win in court on Monday. A temporary order that forced the site to remove videos of the stabbing of a bishop in Sydney last month, was lifted ahead of a trial showdown between the tech giant and the Australian regulator. The court case has reopened debate about how much control a government can exert over these tech companies, but also, whether age restrictions should be placed on social media use.  Today, federal political correspondent Paul Sakkal takes us inside this court case, and how governments across the world are using tech to implement age controls.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

About two weeks ago, a council in Sydney’s west voted to ban books about same-sex families. A former mayor and current councillor led the charge, brandishing a book he said his constituents complained about. Though he hadn’t read the book himself, he claimed residents wanted their kids kept safe from “sexualisation." The motion prompted immediate outrage, including from the NSW Arts Minister, who said when civilisations turn to burning books, or banning books, it was a very bad sign. Today, state political editor Alexandra Smith on what wider implications this local decision could have for all Australians. To read Smith's full opinion piece click here. Other audio used in this episode include from: The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum MSNBC Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Federal government will hand down its third budget on Tuesday, May 14. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has promised the budget will be about cost of living relief and also reform. The Treasurer says people should also expect ambitious investment from the government on housing supply. Today, in a special episode, chief political correspondent David Crowe and senior economics correspondent Shane Wright speak to the Treasurer in Canberra, covering migration, housing pressures, the future made in Australia and the Treasurer’s focus ahead of next week’s budget.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For months now, anger over Israel’s military operation in Gaza has spilled over into mass unrest at universities across the United States.  This culminated in disturbing scenes last week, when police in riot gear stormed the campus at Columbia University, setting off flashbang grenades and eventually arresting nearly 120 people, many of them hauled away, their hands handcuffed with zip ties.  This won’t be the last of it, says North American correspondent Farrah Tomazin, who has spoken to protesters from both sides at campuses across the US.  Today, Tomazin discusses whether these protests ever lead to cultural change, in a country that has a long history of them, some of them deadly. And whether they might help determine the outcome of the American presidential election in November.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For years now, Donald Trump has been shooting off inflammatory messages on social media, and shouting invective about his foes, from lecterns. But as for his actual plans for how he would lead the United States, should he be elected president on November 5? They’ve long been thin on the ground. Or they were, until the other week, when Trump offered a surprising interview in which he revealed, perhaps for the first time, a detailed vision of what he wants to achieve in a second presidency. And just how far he would be planning to go, to attain his goals. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on what Donald Trump’s desire for revenge might look like for Americans on the ground. And why he's more threatened by his own people, than America's traditional enemies.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

They were two brothers from Perth on a trip of a lifetime in Mexico. Callum Robinson, who was playing college lacrosse in the U.S and his brother Jake, a young doctor at the start of his career in Australia, were avid surfers chasing waves on a trip in the north-west coast of Mexico. Last week they went missing, before Mexican police found four bodies down a well on a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Authorities have now confirmed that two of those bodies are those of Jake and Callum. How did this happen in a popular Mexican holiday destination? Today, Channel Nine’s U.S correspondent Alison Piotrowski speaks to us from Baja California about what it’s like on the ground, and the possible motive behind the suspected murders.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you think about spies infiltrating Australia and which countries they’re coming from, you’re probably going to think of China, or Russia. But we’ve just learned, for the first time, that India’s intelligence agency - known as the RAW - deployed secret agents to try and steal sensitive information from one its most important global partners, Australia.  It comes as reports emerged from the United States that a hired hit team with links to the RAW was in the final phase of carrying out an assasination plot against an Indian activist. Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent Matthew Knott on what’s behind this global “nest of spies” and why this spy operation in Australia was kept secret until now.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week in politics was dominated by the tragedy of gendered violence, and what measures the Albanese government will adopt to tackle it. Hit by a wave of national anger over a spate of murders of women by men, the PM convened an emergency National Cabinet meeting on Wednesday. So what did he announce, and how much can the federal government do on this issue of domestic violence? We also examine how a released immigration detainee was able to allegedly attack and severely beat a 77-year-old woman in Perth. Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil said the public’s safety was the government’s priority. But now she is facing calls to resign, along with Immigration Minister Andrew Giles. Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss is national political correspondent David Crowe, and federal reporters Natassia Chrysanthos and Angus Thomson.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.

Nearly 200 years ago, the industrial revolution radically upended how people experienced the world - where they lived, what work they did, and the sort of stress they endured. And now? We’re on the precipice of the next industrial revolution. The advent of quantum computers will likely be able to help countries win wars and solve some of our trickiest social problems, according to experts.Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on just how soon the technology that Albert Einstein once called “spooky” could change our lives. And what its inherent dangers might be.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When you think about live streaming, you might picture mainstream social media sites, but its popularity has skyrocketed on other platforms. With a focus on gaming, Twitch emerged as a live streaming giant over the past decade. Now, there’s a new player making noise – and some of it’s troubling. Edward Craven, the founder of Stake.com and the youngest billionaire in Australia has gone on to co-create the streaming platform Kick. Today, investigative reporter Patrick Begley on a platform described as a “playground for degenerates”, and the risks it poses to vulnerable people.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So far this year, 27 Australian women have been murdered. Nine of the alleged perpetrators were under the age of 30.  Erica Hay, Molly Ticehurst, Emma Bates and Hannah McGuire were all allegedly murdered over the past few weeks. And in the horrific stabbing spree at Bondi Junction, five of the six victims were women. Politicians at the state and federal level are now facing pressure to take action and deliver real solutions to what’s been described as a national crisis. Today, chief reporter Jordan Baker on Australia’s shame and the entrenched culture of misogyny and gendered violence that continues to shape young men.If you or someone you know is affected by sexual assault, domestic or family violence, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The cost of well, almost everything, has skyrocketed. From petrol prices, to rent and mortgages, to insurance premiums and to the supermarket shop with cereal, bread and eggs all costing more. And now, a new report says Australians have suffered the biggest increase in the average tax rates in the developed world, with New Zealand a close second. So why did we end up with the biggest tax increase? And what have been some of the worst price increases we’ve seen over the last few years? Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright on these pressures, and what the government could do about it.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A video of a violent attack on a Sydney bishop has sparked an international fight over free speech, censorship, and the potential threats such videos could pose when spread on social media. US billionaire Elon Musk's social media platform X was ordered by Australia's E Safety Commissioner Julie Inman grant to take down some copies of the clip, amid fees it could be used to radicalise more people. Musk has been fighting the takedown drawing criticism from politicians across the spectrum, including from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The Coalition wants young children blocked from social media to protect them from harmful content, while the country's top policing and spy agencies have vowed to protect children from extremist poison, and called on platforms to do better. Today political correspondent Paul Sakkal and chief political correspondent David Crowe join Rachel Clun on this week's 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.

After more than a decade of weakening strategic resolve under the Obama and Trump administrations, the United States is showing signs of re-emerging as an indispensable power to the world. The United States helped to curtail broader conflict in the Middle East by rallying a coordinated response to Iran’s attack on Israel, and passed a 95 billion dollar aid package for Ukraine, Israel and Taiwan. This willingness to again embrace its role as the gamekeeper and gardener of the international order comes after years of miscalculations that served only to embolden the world’s autocrats and their ambitions. Today, international editor Peter Hartcher on three key positions taken by the United States and what this may mean for its allies and the world order.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, the woman at the centre of the mushroom deaths case that captured the attention of the country, attended court for the second time. Erin Patterson was arrested and charged in November last year with three counts of murder and five counts of attempted murder in the small-town Victorian case tracked around the world. Legal teams are now focusing their efforts on the timing and location for a committal hearing, which could be impacted by a request from Patterson’s legal team to have the case tested in front of her peers in a local court. Patterson has already spent five months in custody, and may spend many more waiting for a hearing that could be pushed out to 2025. Today, crime and justice reporter Erin Pearson on everything we know so far, and what we can expect next.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After seven months of war in the Middle East, the world again held its breath when news emerged that Israel had struck inside Iran. This followed an unprecedented attack by Iran on April 14, when it launched hundreds of missiles and drones at Israeli military targets. What appeared on Friday to be a major response from Israel, and a signal of potentially a significant escalation in the region, then gave way to conflicting reports and confusion. So what actually occurred, and what might happen from here? Today, digital foreign editor Chris Zappone on the history of tension between Iran and Israel, a proxy war, and what both sides seek to gain from conflict.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Donald Trump became the first current or former US president to face a criminal trial, charged with falsifying business records in an attempt to cover up a payment to porn star Stormy Daniels. Allegations he has denied. The first hurdle of the trial was jury selection, but finally, a 12-person panel was sworn in. But it took laborious vetting by the legal teams to get there. Prospective jurors took themselves out of selection because they professed they couldn’t be impartial, while a rigorous survey of candidates included questions such as: Have you ever read the ‘Art of the Deal’ or attended a Proud Boys rally? Today, US correspondent Farrah Tomazin on the highlights from week one, and what to expect from the next six to eight weeks.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The past week has seen two shocking stabbing attacks by lone actors in Sydney - one in the city’s east, and one in its west.  Both incidents have horrified the community, but the attack against a Bishop at an Assyrian Christian church on Monday evening has prompted a particularly strong political response.  These two destabilising events represent a test of Australia’s social cohesion, and a test of our political leaders’ capacity to nurture tolerance within the community at a time of great international tensions.  Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss is political correspondent Paul Sakkal, national security correspondent Matthew Knott, and chief political correspondent David Crowe. 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 scarcely more than 48 hours after the tragic attack in Bondi Junction when across town in Sydney, another confronting incident was unfolding. During a service that was livestreamed at Christ The Good Shepherd Church in the suburb of Wakeley, a teenager allegedly attacked Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel. The attack, which has now been declared an act of terror, sparked chaotic and violent scenes outside the church, where hundreds of people rioted and clashed with a heavy police presence. Today, investigative reporter Patrick Begley on what we know about the attack and the trauma and fear felt across Sydney.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Iran launched a direct missile and drone attack on Israel, over the weekend, it was the realisation of one of Israel’s worst fears. This was a historic first. And has always loomed as an existential threat.For decades, Israeli leaders have feared a direct attack from its sworn enemy, which has been experimenting with its nuclear capabilities for around 70 years. And now, much of the world is holding its breath, as it waits to see how Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu - a man not known for his military restraint - will respond. Today, political and international editor Peter Hartcher on whether this latest escalation could see the war in Gaza evolve into a much wider sphere of devastation.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After five years, one aborted criminal trial and millions of dollars in legal fees, Justice Michael Lee handed down his judgment in the defamation case that Bruce Lehrmann brought against Network 10 and Lisa Wilkinson. Justice Lee found that Bruce Lehrmann had raped Brittany Higgins in Parliament House, and dismissed Lehrmann’s defamation claim. The judgment, which was delayed at the 11th hour, was delivered in great, and at times colourful, detail. The decision does not amount to a finding of criminal guilt. Lehrmann’s criminal trial was aborted in October 2022 due to juror misconduct and the charges were later dropped altogether owing to concerns about Higgins’ mental health. Today, legal affairs reporter Michaela Whitbourn on the extraordinary findings from an at-times squalid and politically and socially charged case, and what it means for everyone involved. And, a warning for listeners, this episode contains repeated descriptions of sexual assault.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When news broke last week that one of the most powerful people at Seven Network allegedly tried to cover up an internal fraud investigation, the network suffered reputational fallout. It’s just the latest scandal that has exposed the misogynistic, bullying and get-a-story-at-any-cost culture that has seemingly been thriving in pockets of the media company. Because, later today, a judgment is expected to be handed down in the multi-million dollar Bruce Lehrmann defamation case, which has also embroiled Seven in scandal. But to see the issue as a problem suffered by one media organisation is to miss the point, according to investigative journalist Nick McKenzie, who broke this latest story. Today, McKenzie, talks about what happens when journalists - the very people who are tasked with holding the powerful to account - allegedly engage in unethical behaviour. And just a heads-up, this episode mentions sexual assault, self-harm and suicide.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australians across the country were shocked on Saturday, when a man brandishing a long knife stalked through a shopping centre in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. What resulted was horrific. At the time of recording, six people have been killed, including two mothers. A dozen other victims have been taken to hospital with stab wounds. The attacker was shot dead by police. Today, chief reporter Jordan Baker on a mass murder that took place in a location that many people - especially mothers of small children - often use as a refuge, from boredom, and the heat. And the shock and sadness that the whole country is feeling. And just a reminder, this episode contains confronting descriptions of violence. If you find anything in this episode distressing, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Six months after the deadly conflict between Israel and Hamas began, Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong has signalled a shift in Australia’s position on the question of Palestinian statehood. Wong said that recognising Palestinian statehood, without waiting for years of peace talks with Israel, could improve the chances for peace and build momentum towards a two-state agreement. The Federal Government’s position has been met with fierce backlash from pro-Israel groups and the Opposition, who say that would reward Hamas for its October 7 terror attacks. Plus the Government's plan to strengthen merger laws and help more businesses make products in Australia as it gears up for its May 14 budget. Today, foreign affairs correspondent Matthew Knott, chief political correspondent David Crowe and economics correspondent Shane Wright join Jacqueline Maley to discuss.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 more than 75 years, Japan has had, at the centre of its constitution, a very particular promise. The country renounces war as a sovereign right. Forever. This means the country is forbidden from maintaining an army, navy or air force - and from using force as a means of settling international disputes. This so-called “peace constitution” was an instrumental part of Japan rising from the ashes of World War II, and the destruction that it both suffered, and meted out. But now, Japan is dramatically beefing up its military. Today, International and political editor Peter Hartcher on why Japan is arguably breaching its own constitution. And what it might mean for the global order.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For at least a year, we’ve been hearing allegations that our biggest supermarkets have been rorting us - paying the farmers who provide them with produce too little. And charging consumers way too much. As the stores themselves rake in tens of billions dollars each year, amid an ongoing cost of living crisis. The end result has been enraged consumers. And fiery political outbursts that have spilled over in senate inquiries in which politicians have grilled supermarket CEOs.  And now, a new review by the government has recommended that supermarkets be fined, potentially billions of dollars, if they breach a renewed code of conduct that has been proposed.  Today, national affairs editor James Massola on the political fight that’s led to this review. And whether it might finally result in lower prices at the checkout.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For decades, these chemicals were miracle ingredients for 3M, a company that has made billions from the products that used them such as Scotchguard and Teflon pans. Nicknamed “forever chemicals”, they repel everything from grease, to water and stains - and are found in everyday items like frying pans, household cleaning products, and even school uniforms. Now 3M is at risk of bankruptcy, with allegations that the company deliberately deceived the public from being aware of the serious risks posed by forever chemicals, with a growing body of science linking these chemicals to adverse health outcomes, including cancer. Today, investigative reporter Carrie Fellner on the factory that contaminated the whole world - including many Australian communities.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Donald Trump won the 2016 presidential election against Hilary Clinton it wasn’t just his grabbing the top spot in the White House that shocked Americans. So, too, did allegations by intelligence agencies that Russian President Vladimir Putin directly ordered a campaign to interfere with the election.  This would play out on social media via troll factories, with fake profiles befriending real people to spread Kremlin propaganda.  And now, only seven months out from the next American election with Donald Trump ramping-up his campaign against Joe Biden, interference like this is happening again. Today, digital foreign editor Chris Zappone on the new tactics being used by Russian operatives, to disrupt democracy.   Zappone's podcast, Dark Shining Moment, can be found here.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, national affairs editor James Massola and political correspondent Paul Sakkal join Jacqueline Maley to look at how the Albanese government is going ahead of the next election, likely to take place next year, after an interesting few months of political ups and downs. They also to examine the ups and downs of political behaviour, after leaked documents revealed potential punishments for MPs and senators who are found to breach parliamentary standards. 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.

Later today, we were meant to be hearing Justice Michael Lee’s judgment, in the multi-million dollar defamation case that Bruce Lehrmann has brought against Network 10. But then, in a surprise turn of events on Tuesday evening, lawyers for Network 10 made an eleventh-hour bid for Justice Lee to re-open its defence, and admit new evidence. This is just the latest twist in a case that has its origins more than five years ago, when former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins alleges that Lehrmann raped her in an office in parliament house. Bruce Lehrmann has always strenuously denied the allegations. Today, legal affairs reporter Michaela Whitbourn on the explosive new evidence, and why it might be key to Justice Lee’s decision. And just a heads-up, this episode contains references to allegations of sexual assault.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One-time Sydney real estate agent Sarah Dougan always dreamed of making a life for herself in the United States. At one time, her goal was to make it as an actress in New York City. That never happened. Instead, she’s become a successful CEO in the US, and the owner of a multi-million dollar mansion.  There’s just one problem. Australian authorities have been combing through her Australian business records since 2011. And the results have been damning. Not only did she leave Australia, in 2012, owing half a million dollars. But from the next year on, she was a wanted fugitive, with a warrant out for her arrest. Today, crime reporter Perry Duffin on what constitutes fairness in our legal system, and whether Sarah Dougan is obliged to return to Australia to face court. Or whether - as she argues - it would mean sacrificing her right to equality, and lead to her losing everything she has in the United States.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Independent MP Andrew Wilkie made claims of secret illicit drug testing within the AFL, the sporting community went into damage control. At the centre of his parliamentary speech was a whistleblower - a former doctor for Melbourne Football Club who alleged that players in some instances underwent off-the-book drug testing ahead of a game. If they tested positive, he claimed, the player might fake illness or injury in order to avoid match-day testing conducted by the independent sporting integrity body. So what’s behind these allegations? And why does it matter what players do in their own time? Today, chief reporter Chip Le Grand on the latest AFL drugs scandal.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More than two years on from Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we have become accustomed to seeing vision on the news of drone attacks and bombed out buildings. But what of the psychological, emotional and physical toll on the country’s children?  Do they sleep safe at night? Do they go to school? Do they play?  Their experience has been lost in the fog of war, say teachers on the ground, who are struggling to give these children, and their mothers, a sense of normalcy. Today, Europe correspondent Rob Harris, who has just travelled to Ukraine, on how this war is affecting the country’s most vulnerable people. And what the impact on them might be for years to come.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the final days of Parliament before a long break, the federal government tried to rush through drastic new deportation laws that would give it the power to threaten people with jail if they are not deemed refugees and refuse to leave the country. Labor says the laws close a loophole that prevents the country from deporting people who have exhausted all legal avenues to stay in Australia and are refusing to leave. But the move was met with strong opposition, and in a bruising loss for the government, all opposition and crossbench senators teamed up to send the laws to a committee for further scrutiny in the coming weeks. Meanwhile, the federal government is also hoping to get its long-awaited fuel efficiency standards through the parliament soon, after making changes to get more car manufacturers on board. Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss is chief political correspondent David Crowe, federal migration reporter Angus Thompson, and climate and energy correspondent Mike Foley. 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 decades, a downturn in the Chinese economy has meant a boon for investors in the West. But then came an unwelcome announcement, earlier this month, from the Chinese government. Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on why this announcement isn’t just bad for our economy, but is a reminder of China’s dramatically revamped - and dangerous  - geopolitical goals.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a church that preaches a hatred of people outside of its own flock. Women are treated as second-class citizens. And homosexuality is not tolerated.  So why does the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church have such extraordinary access to political power brokers? And does it actually perform the acts of charity that it says it does? For which it receives multi-millions of dollars in government funding and tax exemptions? Until last week, many remained questions without answers. That is, until the Australian Tax Office performed an astonishing raid on businesses owned by the church. Today, investigative reporter Michael Bachelard on the Plymouth Brethren Church, which has long flown under the radar, but is now being exposed to the light.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Once one of our most popular prime ministers, before experiencing stunning and repeated political rejection, Kevin Rudd has been out of the spotlight for years. But that was before Donald Trump let rip with a string of invectives against Rudd, in an interview last week.  It was a conversation that unleashed a barrage of think pieces. Why did Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appoint Rudd as the ambassador to the United States in the first place? And how can he possibly advance our interests in the White House now?  Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent Matthew Knott on Kevin Rudd, the one-time power player who was cast-out to the political wilderness and is now back in the spotlight.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the struggle for power and influence in the Pacific, there is one man Australian security agencies have their eye on. He’s allegedly a member of a powerful organised crime network spanning the Pacific. And, according to secret intelligence documents out of Canberra, he’s a potential threat to our national interest. Why? Because he’s also a senior member of the Chinese Communist Party. And his alleged activities are taking place amid China’s growing influence in the Pacific. All this comes at a time when a security agreement between Beijing and the Pacific Island nation of Fiji, once put on ice, now seems to be back on the table. Today, investigative journalist Nick McKenzie on his story with The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes on Zhao Fugang, and why his influence in Fiji matters to Australia. Watch full story on Nine's 60 Minutes here. And just a note, there is no suggestion by our mastheads that Zhao Fugang is a convicted criminal or is guilty of the allegations, only that he is of such serious concern to Australia’s security agencies he has designated as a high priority target.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is an issue that has come up for the last couple of governments, and one that none of them have yet been able to resolve.  Religious discrimination laws have been a contentious topic in our politics for the better part of a decade now, with the rights of gay and gender-diverse students and teachers set against the rights of religious schools to teach and hire according to the values of their faith.  During the election campaign, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he would settle this conflict if Labor won government. But this week the PM effectively abandoned the issue, as Scott Morrison did before him.  Also, the visit of the Chinese Foreign Minister and Donald Trump’s rather hurtful comments about our Ambassador to the US, Kevin Rudd. Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss, is chief political correspondent David Crowe and political reporter Natassia Chrysanthos. 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.

The world’s biggest information and communications companies dominate our lives, in many ways. Google, Apple, Microsoft, among many others - we use their products to write up work reports, store our photos, and send messages to our loved ones. Sometimes hourly. And yet, these same companies, according to recent research, are arguably enabling paedophiles to commit the most heinous of crimes against children. On a scale never before seen in human history. These companies are also producing the technology needed to crack down on these crimes, so why aren’t they using it? Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on the shocking social crisis that’s been hiding in the shadows. And the two government commissioners who are fighting to protect the most vulnerable people in our society.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many know it as the platform of choice for people who love to share videos of themselves dancing, or, say, combing the fur of their toy poodles. But, to hear politicians and late night talk show hosts discuss TikTok, lately, you’d think the app was a one-way ticket to political and social chaos.It all kicked off, last week, when the American House of Representatives passed a bill that - should it become law - would require the Chinese company that owns TikTok to sell it to an American interest. Otherwise, the app would face being banned in the United States.Today, Bruce Wolpe, a former American congressional staffer, and now a senior fellow at the United States Studies Centre, on what lit the fuse on this geopolitical explosion. And whether Australia is likely to follow suit, with its own TikTok banSubscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It was just 45 minutes. But what happened in that short space of time has set-off a frenzy of news stories, an aborted criminal trial, and a multi-million dollar lawsuit. In that time, a young Liberal Party staffer says she was raped by her colleague. He says he is innocent. A court decision on whose truth, is the truth, is expected to be handed down soon.  But amid the layer upon layer of conjecture, is a trail of evidence.  Today, legal affairs reporter Michaela Whitbourn what happened between Bruce Lehrmann and Brittany Higgins. The full interactive piece on the 45 minutes at the centre of the defamation trial can be read here. And just a heads-up for our listeners, this episode contains references to allegations of sexual assault. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new poll suggests that Australians no longer fear nuclear power the way they once did. Is this actually the case, and if so, how come? And are more young people open to nuclear power as a clean energy solution because they didn’t live through disasters such as Chernobyl and Fukushima? Today, environment reporter Caitlin Fitzsimmons on why we’re talking nuclear and just how realistic it is that nuclear power will be a part of our transition to a cleaner, greener Australia.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wealthy Australians should pay more for aged care, and use their superannuation to do so. That’s one of 23 findings from a government-appointed taskforce that has examined how the country covers its rapidly growing aged care costs. Meanwhile, the Albanese government is also mulling an overhaul of a different kind. It’s planning to restrict the amount that can be donated to political parties and candidates, in a bid to limit big-money donations and restrict the influence of billionaires. The changes would be the biggest shake-up to Australian election rules in a generation. Joining Jacqueline Maley to discuss is chief political correspondent David Crowe, federal health reporter Natassia Chrysanthos and political correspondent Paul Sakkal.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Now that Donald Trump has secured his position as the Republican candidate for the American presidency, leaders around the globe have begun to worry. Can they Trump-proof their countries? In Australia, concerned government officials are turning to one man for advice. Mike Green is an expert on American policy in Asia, who worked in the George W Bush administration. So, what challenges could Trump pose for us? And how could we best combat them?Today, international and political editor, Peter Hartcher, on what Mike Green says we should, and shouldn’t, be worried about. And what the silver lining of a Donald Trump presidency might be.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is the oldest fraternal organisation in the world; and began with a group of builders who first gathered in the Middle Ages in Europe to build cathedrals and, later, some of the world’s great architectural structures. But at the heart of the Freemasons, is secrecy, too. It’s against the rules to speak, publicly, about what happens in this order, which has chapters around the world. Today, investigative journalist Charlotte Grieve, about the 31 current and former freemasons who spoke to her to expose what they say is a crisis of bullying, nepotism and financial mismanagement, within the Victorian Freemasons chapter. And why some allege that the organisation’s focus has shifted from charity, to property development.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the early hours of Sunday, February 4, Samantha Murphy left her home in Ballarat for her usual morning run. It’s what so many of us do, every day. But when Samantha failed to show up later, as planned, for brunch, her family raised the alarm. Police soon appealed to the public for help with finding the mother of three, and began searching hundreds of hectares near where Samantha regularly ran. Volunteers later joined in the effort, gathering from around the country to comb the dense bushland near Samantha’s home. Today, law and justice editor Chris Vedelago on the woman who vanished without a trace. And the man who’s been charged with her murder.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

She is probably the most famous female athlete in Australia. A beloved - and extremely bankable - role model, who helped unite Australia last year, when she led the Matildas into the World Cup semi-finals. So when news surfaced, last week, that Matilda’s captain Sam Kerr had been charged with using a racist slur in England, the fallout was swift. There were questions about her future in the sport and her leadership of the Australian team. But people also questioned the likelihood of Kerr, who is not only of Indian heritage, but is also gay, harassing someone. Let alone a white police officer. Today, Europe Correspondent, Rob Harris, on how this story broke, and University of Sydney professor of social work and policy studies, Jioji Ravulo, on whether it’s possible to racially abuse someone for being white.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last weekend the people of Dunkley, in south-east Melbourne, voted in a byelection, and delivered a respectable victory to the Labor candidate Jody Beylea.  Before the vote, Liberal Senator Jane Hume said that “what we’re hearing from voters on the ground is there is this white-hot anger, there is this fury”. But that turned out to be a massive overreach. There was only an average swing against Labor. Today on Inside Politics, chief political correspondent David Crowe and political correspondent Paul Sakkal join Jacqueline Maley to discuss what the Dunkley by-election tells us about the fate of the Opposition. 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 years now, global leaders have become somewhat accustomed to Russian president Vladimir Putin threatening nuclear attack on his enemies. He’s only picked up on those threats, since launching his full-scale invasion of Ukraine, just over two years ago.  To many, these were simply sabre rattling; a show of strength. And a bluff. But then came the leak, about a week ago, of Russian military documents that give new insights into Putin’s nuclear strategies.  Today, international and political editor Peter Hartcher on just how low Putin’s threshold might be, for launching nuclear weapons. And what global leaders may be thinking now.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You know it; I know it, and the politicians sure know it. We’re still in the grip of a cost of living crisis.  But while our two main political parties take pot-shots at each other, and try to score points over who’s doing a better job at providing relief, one main part of the discussion has been lost. What are we spending our money on now? And why? Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright on the biggest shift in our spending habits that he’s seen, in his nearly 40 years long career. And what it says about us.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The alleged murders of Jesse Baird and Luke Davies in a terrace house in the inner city of Sydney, on February 19, stunned the nation. The case began after police found a bag with bloodied contents on February 21, in a skip near a police station in the south Sydney suburb of Cronulla. This led to a manhunt, across Sydney and beyond, after which time Beau Lamarre-Condon, an active police officer, handed himself in at a police station. Exactly a week ago today, Lamarre-Condon led police to the bodies of the slain couple.But many crucial questions have remained unanswered. Until now. Today, crime reporter Perry Duffin on the leaked police document, and conversations with former friends and colleagues of Jesse Baird, that tell us the inside story behind this tragic case. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tomorrow marks one of the most important dates on the American political calendar. It’s Super Tuesday, when 15 states hold mini-elections to help determine who will win their party’s presidential nomination, and then go on to vie for the top spot in the White House, in November.  So, which states are voting? And how might they tap into the personal and political vulnerabilities of the three main challengers: Donald Trump, Joe Biden and Nikki Haley? Today, North America correspondent Farrah Tomazin on the rage, disillusionment and hope she’s been seeing as she travels from state to state. And who might come out a winner tomorrow.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

David McBride is awaiting sentencing for the leak of classified military documents from his time as an army lawyer in Afghanistan. In a candid conversation with senior Good Weekend writer Jane Cadzow, he speaks about what led him to do it, the personal fallout and his complex relationship with his father William, who blew the whistle on problems with thalidomide in the 1960s before his own fall from grace.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Well, it seems that spies walk among us.  This week ASIO boss Mike Burgess made an extraordinary revelation.  He said his agency uncovered a sophisticated foreign interference operation, which involved a former Australian politician betraying Australia, and trying to involve a relative of a Prime Minister in the web.  So just how bad is the threat?  And why won’t they tell us who this former politician is?  Plus, we already knew the average working woman is paid less than the average man. But this week, for the first time, the Workplace Gender Equality Agency revealed the median pay gaps at nearly 5000 of the country’s largest companies.      Businesses from major banks to women’s activewear brands have large pay gaps favouring men, while elite private schools have pay gaps favouring women. So what, if anything, can be done about it?  Today, economics reporter Rachel Clun 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.

She’s been ridiculed, and threatened. And though she continues to spend millions on her campaign, she has yet to win a single primary in the race to become the Republican presidential nominee. To top it off, there’s virtually no chance she can beat Donald Trump; her only other Republican opponent. So why does Nikki Haley stubbornly continue to fight in this race? Today, International and political editor, Peter Hartcher, on what Nikki Haley can still achieve, even when she’s destined to lose this nomination. And what Donald Trump still stands to lose, while she stays in the race.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For months now, officials in Israel and Gaza have been trying to negotiate another ceasefire. And now, according to experts, the enemies are within days of reaching one. But what might a ceasefire look like? Hamas has demanded a complete cessation of hostilities and an end, long-term, to the war. While Israel has insisted that nothing will stop an imminent ground invasion into the south of Gaza. Meanwhile, more and more Gazans risk starvation, while the world looks on in horror.Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent, Matthew Knott, on what might lead Israel and Hamas to move beyond their current impasse. And the possible impact, on negotiations, of irritations that are growing, behind the scenes, between Benjamin Netanyahu and Joe Biden. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.

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 omny.fm/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 omny.fm/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 omny.fm/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 omny.fm/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 pedophilia 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.

Justice Anthony Besanko has found Nine's newspapers had proven that Ben Roberts-Smith was a war criminal who was involved in the unlawful killing and assault of unarmed Afghan prisoners. 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 Monday, 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.

Will the Albanese government make changes to JobSeeker after its own committee called it a “pressing concern” because of the “precarious financial situation” of those on the payment? And, what did we learn about our Prime Minister after his hour-long exclusive interview with controversial TV host Piers Morgan in the UK? Today, chief political correspondent David Crowe and columnist Sean Kelly 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.

The coronation of King Charles the third takes place in two days. Inevitably, the debate about whether Australia should become a republic is rearing its head. This is a conversation that’s been happening in Australia for more than 30 years. But could we finally be on the precipice of change? Today, Craig Foster, former Socceroo and now co-chair of the Australian Republic Movement, on why Australians may finally be ready to sever ties with the monarchy.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Joe Biden has announced that he will be running for a second term in office. Biden, now 80, is already the oldest American president in history. If he wins the presidential election next year, he will be 86 by the time he leaves the White House. His political rivals, and even some of his supporters, are now asking the same questions. How old is too old to be president? At what age is a person still fit to be the individual with the nuclear codes? Today, Peter Hartcher, political and international editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, on whether Joe Biden’s age could determine his political future, and how other world leaders have been embraced - or rejected - as they entered their ninth decade.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For decades, NSW town Gunnedah had a booming koala population. So much so that it called itself “the koala capital of the world". But now, the town’s koala population has been deemed “functionally extinct.” National environment and climate editor Nick O’Malley joins Julia Carr-Catzel to explain how the healthiest koala colony collapsed into extinction.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been a huge couple of weeks for Fox News. The network’s lies about a fraudulent 2020 US election have cost it upwards of $1 billion Australian dollars, its severed ties with its most-popular and profitable news anchors and the media giant faces more lawsuits in the future. But what will become of Fox after its historic defamation settlement? Will the news machine continue to give the audience what it wants in lieu of what it needs? Or have the events of the past few months paved the way for a broader shift in the company’s values? Today, North America correspondent for The Age and Sydney Morning Herald, Farrah Tomazin on the future of Fox News.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, the Albanese government released its Defence Strategic Review - the biggest and most significant review into Australia’s military structure in decades.  The review found that the risks Australia faces are “profound”. And that our military “is not fully fit for purpose”. So on the one hand, the government is considering increasing military spending, but it also faces pressure ahead of the May budget to increase some welfare payments. This pressure comes from all sides, the social services, lobby, charities business and its own backbench. Chief political correspondent David Crowe and political and international editor Peter Hartcher 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.

Children as young as 10 can be arrested, charged and jailed as criminals in Australia. But tomorrow, Australia’s attorneys-general will consider raising the age of criminal responsibility nationally.Today, state political reporter for The Age Sumeyya Ilanbey on the question: how young is too young when it comes to criminal culpability? Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, Basketball Australia revealed it had denied an athlete’s application to play for a semi-professional women’s basketball league.  It made global headlines and is fuelling a debate about how our biology impacts our ability to run, jump and compete against one another. This is because Lexi Rodgers is a transgender athlete. Her bid to play the sport she loves strikes at the very heart of some of the most pressing issues of our time: human rights, discrimination and a fear - and love - of challenging the status quo. Today, sports reporter Carla Jaeger joins Samantha Selinger-Morris to discuss the tight rope sports organisations are treading in their struggle to enable all athletes to have a fair go.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian economy is being broken by a dysfunctional housing system that is inflicting long-term financial and community pain on almost every part of the nation. Decades of bad policies, greed, NIMBYism and population growth have enabled the economy to be consumed by the Great Australian Dream. So has Australians’ love affair with housing so distorted the economy that it is at the heart of the problems plaguing our cities, our governments and our way of life? Today, economics correspondents Shane Wright and Rachel Clun on how housing ate the Australian economy. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A joint investigation between The Age, the Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes into The Potter’s House Christian Fellowship reveals a disturbing picture of the religious group operating in Australia. Former members have described an unhealthy level of control over the lives of its followers, subject to hardline indoctrination tactics instilling fear about the prospect of hell and the imminent second coming of Jesus.  Today, investigative reporter for The Age, Simone Fox Koob on the former members speaking out about the cult-like church.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday, a long-awaited review into the Reserve Bank of Australia was unveiled.  The 51 recommended changes - including the creation of a new interest rate setting board -  represent the biggest shake-up to the RBA in a generation. So what exactly has the report recommended? And, if implemented, how might those recommendations change Australia’s economy going forward? Today, senior economics correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age Shane Wright on the review and what it might mean for Australians.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gun violence has become deeply embedded in the fabric of America. At the time of recording, there have been at least 160 mass shootings across the US so far this year. So will the shootings ever stop? And why are guns such a divisive issue for Americans now more than ever? Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Matthew Knott on the guns, and people, killing people in the US.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You might not know the name, Peter Bol. A few years ago, virtually nobody did. But in 2021, the Olympic runner stunned the athletics world, and captured the hearts of millions, by becoming the fastest Australian 800m runner in history. Now Bol is accused of being a drug cheat, and his career hangs in the balance. Today, Andrew Webster, chief sports writer for the Sydney Morning Herald, joins Samantha Selinger-Morris to discuss how the scandal is affecting Peter Bol, and the drawn-out investigation that may, or may not, save his career.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kris Ridgway is a conman who used his position at a respected financial firm to push unauthorised, high risk investment products to his trusting clients. He made at least $1.6 million in commissions, but his investors haven’t seen a cent. And now he's confessed. Ridgway was part of a dubious investment scheme that's left Australian families millions of dollars out of pocket. He tells investigative journalist for The Sydney Morning Herald, Adele Ferguson in a joint investigation with 60 Minutes that he's hit "rock bottom", that he's ashamed of his acts, and that he fears ending up in a prison cell. Today, Adele reveals the surprise phone call that led to Ridgway's stunning confession, and the clients he bled dry.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the end of this month, the Liddell coal fired power station will be shut down. It’s a station that has dominated the Hunter Valley skyline for half a century.  Its fall will represent the end of an era in the Hunter region, but the power station’s closure also holds great national significance. But how is Australia really tracking when it comes to a transition away from coal and towards renewable energy? And what will come of the communities left behind? Today, environment reporter for The Sydney Morning Herald, Laura Chung on the closure of one of Australia’s oldest coal-fired power stations - and the lessons we can learn from it.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rising threat of cyber attacks on Australians, a possible thawing of relations with China, and Dutton’s strategy to oppose an Indigenous Voice to parliament dealt another blow.  Foreign affairs and national security correspondent Matthew Knott and federal political reporter Lisa Visentin join Stephanie Peatling this week on Inside Politics.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, hundreds of women launched a class action in the Supreme Court of Victoria against multi-billion dollar pharmaceutical company Bayer over its contraceptive device called Essure. These women say they have been left with severe side effects after being fitted with the Essure device, touted as a gentler, permanent contraceptive option. Their allegations echo a long history of healthcare scandals in which women’s pain has been dismissed and their safety compromised by medical devices and drugs that have caused irreparable damage. Today, Health Editor for The Age, Aisha Dow on the device, the women and the lawsuit.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been 15 years since the Indian Premier League launched with a bang, reshaping cricket almost overnight. Like the World Series revolution of the 1970s, the IPL injected unprecedented millions into the game, attracting wealthy backers and younger audiences to cricket’s snackable new offering. Now, the IPL’s world domination is set to reach a whole new level, with the potential for Australian players to earn millions more dollars in globe-trotting deals that could force yet another reckoning for the game. Today, The Age's chief cricket writer Daniel Brettig explains the raid on Australia’s best players that could redefine international cricket.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week, NSW Premier Chris Minns announced a state-wide ban of mobile phones in government high schools. He was coming through on a long-held election promise; one that seeks to remedy a decade of declining academic performance in schools.  At first glance, you might think that teachers and parents alike would welcome this ban. But it’s sowing division in both communities.  Today, education reporter for The Sydney Morning Herald, Christopher Harris, on why NSW has lagged behind other states in bringing this ban, and what the research says about its ability to help, or hamper, children.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we're sharing an episode of our sister podcast, Good Weekend Talks.  It's a conversation between Nagi Maehashi, the creator of cult cooking website RecipeTin Eats, and senior culture writer for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, Kerrie O’Brien. Maehashi talks about what inspired her to start cooking, as well as her obsessive testing process, and how her former career as an auditor helped make her business so strong. You can find more episodes of Good Weekend Talks on Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s behind the federal Liberal Party’s decision to oppose the Voice? Is it in line with what the electorate wants? And how will it affect the Liberal party brand after its recent blow in the Aston by-election? Today, Chief Political Correspondent David Crowe and federal politics reporter for The Age Paul Sakkal - 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.

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. Today, court reporter at The Age, David Estcourt on the trial of Malka Leifer.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time in almost a year, The Reserve Bank of Australia held official interest rates steady yesterday.  Following its meeting on Tuesday, RBA governor Philip Lowe confirmed the official cash rate would remain at 3.6 per cent until at least May. So why has the RBA made this decision now? Will it help ease the cost of living crisis? And is it a pause - or an end to the fight against inflation? Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright joins economics correspondent Rachel Clun, to discuss the Reserve Bank of Australia’s latest moves.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has recently returned from a trade visit to China, the first Australian state leader to visit the country since international travel has opened.  While pledging that no new trade deals would arise, the visit wasn't without controversy. Andrews' trip to revive Victoria’s trade ties with China excluded the media, a fact that raised questions about the nature and transparency of the visit.  Victorian political reporter Broede Carmody joins Chris Zappone to discuss the state, national and international dimensions of the trip to China.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victoria has vowed to ban the Nazi salute and strengthen its anti-vilification laws after neo-Nazis recently gatecrashed an anti-trans rally in Melbourne. A group of about 30 people dressed in black from the neo-Nazi group the National Socialist Network performed the salute on Victoria’s parliament steps before being led away by police. But an expert has cast doubt on the effectiveness of banning Nazi symbols, questioning whether this will do enough to deter far-right extremism in the country and where efforts may be better placed. Today, Lydia Khalil, senior research fellow at Deakin University and project director at the Lowy Institute on whether banning symbols may be a band-aid solution to a much bigger problem.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is John Wick one of modern cinema's best franchises? Or overrated, ultra-violent garbage? With the fourth instalment of the series in cinemas now, Osman Faruqi and Rob Moran debate the strength of the John Wick universe. Warning: This episode contains spoilers for the John Wick franchise. The Drop is a weekly show tackling the latest in the world of pop culture and entertainment. Join host Osman Faruqi and the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age's team of culture writers and critics along with interviews with musicians, actors, filmmakers and everyone involved in the world of culture.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, the federal government and the Greens both declared victory after long negotiations about key climate policy. The policy - called the safeguard mechanism - imposes a hard cap to stop the nation’s industrial pollution rising. It also forces companies to shell out hundreds of millions of dollars to offset their greenhouse gas emissions. Crucially, however, the deal struck with the Greens doesn’t rule out new fossil fuel production - the thing climate scientists say is needed to stop runaway climate change. So why did the Greens agree to the deal?  And how exactly will this new mechanism help Australia reach its climate targets? Today, national environment and climate editor Nick O’Malley 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.

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?Today, 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.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When the pandemic lockdowns ended, the number of students returning to school never fully recovered. With the number of kids refusing to go to school rising, the reasons behind the trend aren’t completely understood. Called “school refusal”, the problem disrupts young people’s education, upends family life and often leaves parents feeling defeated. So why are kids increasingly refusing to go to school? And if this trend continues what will it mean for the future of learning? Today, education reporter for The Age, Nicole Precel on the troubling phenomenon of school refusal and its impact on learning.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Succession is back for its fourth and final season. Join Osman Faruqi, Meg Watson and Thomas Mitchell as they unpack the season premiere, discuss their favourite lines and analyse who came out on top.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Saturday, New South Wales voters ended 12 years of coalition rule by comprehensively backing Labor to form government. Outgoing premier Dominic Perrottet has resigned from the Liberal leadership. And Chris Minns will be the first Labor premier of New South Wales since Kristina Keneally. But what does this change mean for New South Wales? What can we expect from the Minns government? And what did the results tell us about the changing political sentiment of the nation? Today on Please Explain, The Sydney Morning Herald editor, Bevan Shields, is joined by State Political editor, Alexandra Smith to dissect the weekend's events.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Part satire, part black comedy, part drama, Succession is one of the most critically acclaimed shows in the world. Ahead of the premiere of the fourth and final season of Succession, Thomas Mitchell, Meg Watson and Osman Faruqi unpack what makes the show so great, and refresh us on where the Roy family is at before the stunning show comes to a conclusion. The Drop is a weekly show tackling the latest in the world of pop culture and entertainment. Join host Osman Faruqi and the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age's team of culture writers and critics along with interviews with musicians, actors, film makers and everyone involved in the world of culture.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every Friday, Jacqueline Maley hosts an “Inside Politics” panel discussion, wrapping up the week. Today, she discusses the rising tide of far-right extremism, the NSW state election, and the Voice referendum question with David Crowe and Alex Smith. 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, North Asia correspondent Eryk Bagshaw described his months-long investigation, which has revealed that 82 Australian children have been snatched by Japanese partners, never to see their Australian parents again.  Today, he joins host, Chris Zappone, to discuss the people trying to change the system that allows this to happen.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Right now, there are hundreds of parents across the world whose children have been abducted. Not by a stranger - but by the other parent.  A months-long investigation by The Age, Sydney Morning Herald and 60 Minutes has revealed that Japan is home to a system of parental abduction that has driven dozens of Australian parents to breaking point, created immense psychological distress for children, and torn families apart.  In part one of this two-part series, North Asia correspondent Eryk Bagshaw joins host, Chris Zappone, to discuss his investigation.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Each year, Australians put 125 billion dollars through the pokies - and over half of that is in NSW alone. The state has more poker machines than any jurisdiction in the world outside Nevada.  This billion-dollar gambling industry will be in the spotlight when New South Wales goes to the polls this weekend. So, how did NSW become the pokies capital of Australia? And will this election mark a turning point in the debate around poker machines? Today, reporter Angus Thomson travels to the border of NSW and Victoria, where the legacy of decades of loose regulation of gambling machines is still being felt today.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank - the second biggest in US history - has triggered fresh fears the entire financial sector may be under threat. Depositors lined up to withdraw their money from SVB and other banks before they folded within days. But should Australians be concerned about our own financial institutions? Today, technology editor for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age Nick Bonyhady joins Julia Carr-Catzel on the fragility of the financial sector.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artificial intelligence is already being used to make incredible memes, hilarious videos and fascinating art. But what are the downsides, and how will AI challenge the world of art, and society and politics more generally? The Drop is a weekly show tackling the latest in the world of pop culture and entertainment. Join host Osman Faruqi and the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age's team of culture writers and critics along with interviews with musicians, actors, film makers and everyone involved in the world of culture.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every Friday, Jacqueline Maley will host an “Inside Politics” panel discussion, wrapping up the week. Today, she discusses the AUKUS fallout with Peter Hartcher and David Crowe.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.

On US election night in 2020, American TV network Fox News declared Democrat Joe Biden had defeated sitting Republican president Donald Trump in the crucial swing state of Arizona. The declaration infuriated the president and his allies, and set in motion a chain of events that are now haunting his one-time biggest supporter, Rupert Murdoch. A $2.4 billion lawsuit by voting machine maker Dominion claims Murdoch’s Fox News repeatedly aired unsubstantiated election accusations that Dominion had rigged the vote against Trump. Fox argues it was just doing its job. Today, media and telecommunications reporter Zoe Samios tells Chris Zappone about the case that has brought renewed scrutiny to the Murdoch media empire.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Tuesday morning, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stood in front of the world's media, next to US President Joe Biden and the British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.    They were announcing details of the AUKUS agreement which will see Australia acquire and build eight nuclear-powered submarines over the next three decades at a cost north of 350 billion dollars.   Today, foreign affairs and national security correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Matthew Knott on what we now know about the AUKUS deal.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In Israel, a recently elected government led by Benjamin Netanyahu is proposing a law that is so controversial it is pushing the nation to a breaking point.  The proposed law would allow parliament to overturn decisions of the Supreme Court, effectively crippling its judicial  oversight.  Seen as a naked power grab, Israelis have taken to the streets in protest. The government under Netanyahu has responded with tear gas, batons and riot police. Israel, once seen as an island of democracy among Middle Eastern autocracies, is in a profound crisis.  Today, political and international editor Peter Hartcher on the grave situation in Israel.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Historically, egg freezing has been expensive, invasive and often unsuccessful. While new technology has improved the thawing process, leading to dramatically higher pregnancy rates from frozen eggs, there are still questions about whether the industry exploits or empowers women.  Today, social affairs writer for The Age and Sydney Morning Herald, Wendy Tuohy on the egg freezing industry - and whether the fertility treatment is worth the cost.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you noticed a lack of prestige TV on your favourite streaming platforms lately? You're not alone. The good news is, some of the most critically acclaimed shows of the past few years are about to return, including Succession and Ted Lasso. Plus, a whole bunch of brand new series are set to drop in the next couple of months. On today's episode: our guide to best upcoming TV shows. The Drop is a weekly show tackling the latest in the world of pop culture and entertainment. Join host Osman Faruqi and the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age's team of culture writers and critics along with interviews with musicians, actors, film makers and everyone involved in the world of culture.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The legal case brought by prominent social campaigner Sally Rugg against her former employer MP Monique Ryan has captured the public’s attention.  Not only is it a story of a working relationship gone bad, but the legal fall out could have implications for employment law for all Australians.  At the heart of the case is how much overtime, if any, should an employee be expected to work. Today, federal politics reporter Paul Sakkal and The Age’s chief reporter Chip Le Grand on the workplace drama that has riveted the public.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Women wanting to terminate their pregnancies are still being turned away from public hospitals, despite abortions being decriminalised across Australia. Private clinics are often booked up and if you can find an appointment, it’ll cost you upwards of $600 for a surgical abortion.  If you’re in regional and rural Australia you’ll likely have to drive hundreds of kilometres to get to the nearest abortion provider. So why is it still so hard to get an abortion in Australia? And could a decision due any day by the Therapeutic Goods Administration change that? Today, health editor Kate Aubusson, on the long road to free and equal access to abortion.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Women’s sport has seen a momentous rise in recent years - and many women have had a hand in that change, from athletes to administrators, journalists to sports agents and sponsors. Some have taken a stand on issues that transcend sport, some made the decisions that determine where the money goes or what sports we see on TV, and others worked in the background to keep the major codes rolling along. On International Women's Day, sports reporter Georgina Robinson joins Marnie Vinall to talk about the women changing Australia’s sporting landscape - and the most influential of them all - international soccer star, Sam Kerr.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are we on a collision course for war with China? Does our military have the weapons it needs to fight a modern war? How useful will the much hyped AUKUS submarines be in a potential conflict?  For a day and a half in February this year, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald hosted a gathering of experts to examine Australia’s most urgent & dangerous national security threats.  Today, political editor and international editor at The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald Peter Hartcher joins Matthew Knott to discuss their latest editorial project - Red Alert.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Decades ago, scientists looked at psychedelic drugs as tools that could help improve people’s mental health. Then came counterculture, Woodstock, hallucinogenic trips - and a backlash against the drugs. But now hallucinogens are once again being examined for their unique ability to treat mental health issues that existing pharmaceutical drugs cannot. And Australia is at the forefront of this research. The Age social affairs editor Jewel Topsfield joins Chris Zappone to discuss medicinal psychedelics.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Academy Awards are just two weeks away. Will Everything Everywhere All At Once clean up? Could Top Gun: Maverick sneak ahead? Will Cate Blanchett pick up her third Oscar? Today on The Drop, a deep dive exploring the state of the race, who's likely to win and the potential upsets. Plus, an interview with Mandy Walker, the Oscar-nominated cinematographer behind Elvis. The Drop is a weekly show tackling the latest in the world of pop culture and entertainment. Join host Osman Faruqi and the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age's team of culture writers and critics along with interviews with musicians, actors, film makers and everyone involved in the world of culture.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been exactly one month since a train carrying hazardous material came off the tracks in Ohio in the United States.Many residents in the affected town of East Palestine say they are still feeling the effects, from respiratory problems and rashes to headaches and unusual odours.But East Palestine isn’t just another story of an American environmental disaster. It’s also a tale of corporate profits, regulation and communities that feel “forgotten”.Today, North America correspondent for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald Farrah Tomazin - joins us to discuss Ohio’s toxic disaster.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Before the pandemic, an estimated 1 million Australians had an eating disorder. But this week, we learned that the number of eating disorder patients has exploded over the last three years. Australian children as young as eight are being diagnosed with eating disorders.  It's a horrifying scenario for their families who would go to extraordinary lengths to get them the treatment they need. So what happens to these families when the healthcare system buckles under the pressure of overwhelming demand?  Today, Health Editor for The Age Aisha Dow on the unbearable burden of eating disorders in Australia, and a warning this episode deals with suicide and self harm. If this episode brings up any concerns for you or a loved one, you can call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, Lifeline on 131114, The Butterfly Foundation on 1800 33 4673 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.   You can also visit Beyond Blue at beyondblue.org.au, Kids Helpline at kidshelpline.com.au, The Butterfly Foundation at butterfly.org.au or Lifeline at lifeline.org.au.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announced that the tax on superannuation earnings over $3 million will double from 15 per cent to 30 per cent in two years' time. Australians have about $3.3 trillion in superannuation, but that money is far from evenly divided. At the top end, some accounts have more than $100 million, while the vast bulk of people have less than $100,000.  So how generous are the tax concessions? And who has the most to gain or lose from the changes?  Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright joins Rachel Clun to discuss what the changes to super tax concessions mean for our retirement future.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

By some measures, TikTok is the most downloaded social media app in the world. Yet even as it wins millions of users, democratic governments worry about the company's ties to the government of the country of its origin: The People's Republic of China.  Governments bodies in Australia and in like minded democracies overseas have taken to banning the app over fear of who has access to the data. Today, Co-CEO of Internet 2.0 Robert Potter joins us to discuss the war on TikTok - and whether it’s justified.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gender neutral Oompa-Loompa's and banning the word "fat" are just some of the changes that will be made to Roald Dahl's classic children's books. The edits have sparked intense debate in the literary world, with Salman Rushdie condemning them as censorship while others have suggested that it's just about keeping up with the times. So what is really behind these changes, and what will their impact be? The Drop is a weekly show tackling the latest in the world of pop culture and entertainment. Join host Osman Faruqi and the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age's team of culture writers and critics along with interviews with musicians, actors, film makers and everyone involved in the world of culture.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charlie Teo is Australia’s most famous neurosurgeon, a man mobbed by adoring supporters, celebrity mates and former patients whose lives he saved on the operating table. But this same doctor is at the centre of a five-day disciplinary hearing, facing multiple allegations of unsatisfactory professional conduct concerning two operations that had disastrous outcomes. Teo denies the allegations. The Sydney Morning Herald’s chief investigative reporter Kate McClymont joins host Kate Aubusson to discuss Charlie Teo's fight to save his career.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tomorrow marks one year since Vladimir Putin launched a full scale invasion of Ukraine. Even though it followed eight years of Moscow-fomented war in the nation’s east, and the annexation of Crimea, the brutality, severity and scale of the 2022 invasion has shocked the world.  Since then high-intensity fighting has claimed the lives of tens of thousands, Ukrainian civilians have been massacred, and Moscow continues to strike power plants, schools and non-military targets.  Today, Marta Barandiy, founder of Promote Ukraine, speaks to us from Germany.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, many of Australia’s biggest city centres resembled ghost towns. But now that restrictions and lockdowns have ended - our cities are not returning to how they used to be. Shops are still empty and office vacancy rates are approaching all-time highs as people continue to choose to work from home. So what is the future of our city centres? And are they worth saving? Today, city editor for The Age Cara Waters and Sydney Editor for the Sydney Morning Herald Michael Koziol, on why the death of the central business district does not have to mean the death of the city centre.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The last two governors of the Reserve Bank of Australia have had their terms extended to complete a decade in one of the nation's most important economic jobs. But the current governor, Philip Lowe, might not. Last week, Lowe faced a grilling from politicians about rising interest rates and the state of the economy, fuelling growing doubts that his term will be renewed. Today, senior economics correspondent Shane Wright joins Chris Zappone to discuss Lowe’s days of reckoning and the future of the Reserve Bank of Australia.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s being called the ‘asbestos of the 21st century’ - exposure to silica dust particles from engineered stone has placed hundreds of thousands of construction workers at risk of the lung disease - silicosis.  A joint investigation by The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and 60 minutes has uncovered how companies continually place profit before the health of their workers and how regulators fail to do their job. Today, investigative journalist for The Sydney Morning Herald, Adele Ferguson on the disturbing legacy of one of the oldest occupational lung diseases in the world.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Who is Fred Again? The 29-year-old UK musician sold out his surprise concerts in Australia in just a few seconds, demonstrating how massively popular he has become. But where did he come from, and what explains his meteoric rise? Rob Moran breaks down the Fred Again phenomenon, plus a survey of the pop music landscape in 2023 featuring Caroline Polacheck, Lana Del Rey and up and coming Australian acts. The Drop is a weekly show tackling the latest in the world of pop culture and entertainment. Join host Osman Faruqi and the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age's team of culture writers and critics along with interviews with musicians, actors, film makers and everyone involved in the world of culture.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elon Musk has been in the news again after demanding a change to Twitter to help boost his tweets engagements. He was apparently upset that his tweets about the Super Bowl got less engagement than US President Joe Biden’s. It's yet the latest caper in Musk's extremely disruptive tenure as CEO of Twitter. But that’s just Musk the showman. The businessman is also rapidly making changes to the company to boost its profits and establish a more sustainable model.  Could Musk’s purchase of Twitter, seen by many as move to satisfy his vanity, actually be vindicated as a business decision? Could he crack the code of profitability at the platform? Today technology editor Nick Bonyhady joins us to discuss the curious case of Elon Musk and his leadership of Twitter.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Niamh Finneran Loader was 25 years old when she travelled to Bali for minor dental work late last year. The Australian University student was found dead on December 2 in the bathroom of the Kuta-Bali Famous Hotel, leaving her grieving family and friends struggling to comprehend how she died.  The circumstances of her tragic death are still a mystery to law enforcement both in Australia and Indonesia. But her case has reignited questions about the allure of medical tourism for more than 15,000 Australians who head overseas every year for cheaper cosmetic procedures, heart surgery, and even stem cell therapy.  Today, South East Asia Correspondent Chris Barrett on the big business of medical tourism, and what Australians have to gain or lose.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hundreds of millions of plastic bags have been sent to landfill since the collapse of Australia’s largest soft-plastics recycling scheme.Revelations uncovered by the Age and Sydney Morning Herald last year, found plastics dropped in REDcycle bins in supermarkets across the country - were stockpiled and not recycled for years on end.Over 12,000 tonnes of soft plastics have since been found at 32 locations across Australia.Today, law and justice editor for the Age, Chris Vedelago on how this scheme went so wrong, and what’s next for plastic recycling.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the nation grapples with a cost of living crisis and stagnant wages, many are asking how we got here. An increasing number of Australians live in a state of economic insecurity, as others have become incredibly wealthy. Inequality in our society is not new. In fact, it’s been on the rise steadily for decades. Today, Investigative reporter for The Age and author of Hard Labour - Wage theft in the age of inequality, Ben Schneiders joins Chris Zappone to discuss the issue and how it affects our society today.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Super Bowl offers a dream opportunity for advertisers, with millions of people in the stands and glued to television screens for the year’s most-watched football game. But the ads are only one side to the game’s spectacle. The halftime shows offer an unrivalled if fleeting global audience to performers for the one American football game that even non-sports fans watch.In more recent years, the Super Bowl has also become a kind of defacto commentary on race in America - with issues like who performs in the half time show and indeed who most benefits from the sport becoming a national talking point.Today, North American correspondent Farrah Tomazin on the cultural event that is the American Super Bowl. And later - chief sports writer for the Sydney Morning Herald, Andrew Webster speaks to Chris Paine about the game.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Oscar-award winning director Steven Soderbergh is the mastermind behind Ocean's 11 and its sequels, Traffic and Erin Brockovich. His latest film is Magic Mike's Last Dance, starring Channing Tatum and Salma Hayek. On this episode of The Drop, Soderbergh discusses why he returned to the world of male strippers, the upcoming Oscars and his thoughts on Top Gun: Maverick. The Drop is a weekly show tackling the latest in the world of pop culture and entertainment. Join host Osman Faruqi and the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age's team of culture writers and critics along with interviews with musicians, actors, film makers and everyone involved in the world of culture.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On January 28, a giant Chinese surveillance balloon - the stuff of spy thrillers from another time - traversed the continental United States for a week before being shot down. US-China relations subsequently took a hit, with top US diplomat Antony Blinken calling off a highly-anticipated trip to Beijing shortly after the incident. But as the US Navy works to recover the balloon’s payload - what are the broader implications for the world’s biggest superpowers and the future of their diplomacy? Today, explainer reporter for The Age and Sydney Morning Herald, Sherryn Groch on what China’s spy balloon was looking for and what happens next.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The primary role of the Australian Health Practitioners Registration Agency, known as AHPRA, is to protect the public when doctors fall below the high standards expected of them. Today on Please Explain, investigative journalist Charlotte Grieve on AHPRA’s chronic under-resourcing, bullying, systemic racism and loopholes that keep doctors' records clean after they've caused serious harm.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On a diplomatic visit to London last week, Foreign Minister Penny Wong told  her counterparts that Britain needed to be mindful of its colonial legacy if it wanted to be relevant in the Indo-Pacific. Malaysian-born Wong invoked her own family to illustrate the imperial role Britain has played in history. The foreign minister’s comments raised eyebrows, but also underscored the changing view of Australia’s role in the region. London-based journalist for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age Latika Bourke joins host Chris Zappone to discuss Wong’s speechSubscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Across Australia - renters are often competing with hundreds of others for a single unit. Some people are forced out of the market entirely - resorting to couch surfing and other makeshift arrangements just to get by. In the last 12 months, the average rental price has gone up 10 per cent in capital cities - marking a record high in annual rent growth - while wages have only risen by three per cent in the same period. Yet this crisis - affecting people of many backgrounds - is anything but new.Today, property reporter for the Age and Sydney Morning Herald Jim Malo on whether we’ve reached a breaking point.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Senators and MPs from around the country are landing in Canberra today for the first parliamentary week of the year. The government has a jam-packed agenda for the coming weeks. It plans to introduce legislation on everything from extending paid parental leave to establishing a referendum on an Indigenous voice and housing reforms. But it's going to be a particularly big week for Treasurer Jim Chalmers. Tomorrow, the Reserve Bank is expected to lift interest rates again, as figures show Australians are struggling with the highest cost-of-living increases in more than 30 years. Today, senior economics correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age  Shane Wright joins host Rachel Clun to discuss what will shape the parliamentary weeks and months ahead.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Reality TV shows come and go but one franchise has outlasted pretty much all of the others: Survivor. The series is nearly a quarter of a century old and is undergoing a renaissance. A new season of the Australian version of the franchise kicked off this week and it’s already being called the best ever. Today on The Drop, culture reporter Meg Watson on how Survivor has outlasted other reality TV shows. The Drop is a weekly show tackling the latest in the world of pop culture and entertainment. Join host Osman Faruqi and the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age's team of culture writers and critics along with interviews with musicians, actors, film makers and everyone involved in the world of culture.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been two years since the Myanmar military launched a coup against the civilian government - an event that has cost thousands of people their lives.   Australian photojournalist Steve Tickner was just one of the journalists - local and foreign -  fleeing the military as hundreds were being detained and protesters were being tortured. Today, South-east Asia correspondent for the Sydney Morning Herald and the Age, Chris Barrett tells the story of Tickner’s daring escape from military dictatorship, and the situation today.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tales of the Fountain of Youth have been told for thousands of years across countless civilisations. The ability to turn back the ageing clock is the stuff of legend and one of humanity’s greatest desires.  Scientists across the world have been trying to reverse ageing for decades, and now Australian researcher David Sinclair has come closer than ever before.  But if we could stop the ageing process, would we really want to? Today, Lifestyle Health Editor Sarah Berry on the latest frontier in the fight against old age.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the summer, James Massola drove from Sydney to Perth across the Nullarbor, a trip of nearly 5000 kilometres. It’s a bucket list trip for many Australians. But for James, it looked a little different - because he did it in an electric vehicle.  Accompanied by his dad and a mate, James set out to answer one simple question: was it possible to drive from the east coast of Australia to the west in an EV? Today, national affairs editor James Massola on his electric-fuelled road trip, and the future of electric vehicles in Australia.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, over four million Australian children will return to classrooms, marking the beginning of a new school year. But parents are paying more than ever - with private school fees in Sydney and Melbourne increasing more than 50 per cent over the past decade. The fees have far exceeded the rate of inflation and wage growth, forcing some parents remortgage homes, take on more debt and sacrifice family holidays to cover the costs. Today, education editor for the Sydney Morning Herald, Lucy Carroll on why parents are paying more than ever before.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the past few months, tens of thousands of tech workers have been fired from some of the biggest tech companies in the world - companies like Google, Meta and Amazon. So why are these cuts happening now? And will the tech sector survive?  Today, technology editor from the Sydney Morning Herald and the Age, Nick Bonyhady on the big tech jobs bloodbath - and whether these cuts are coming for the rest of us.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia's biggest music countdown is here, but does it still have the kind of cultural resonance it used to? On this episode of The Drop, host Osman Faruqi and journalist Billie Eder dive into the data to look at what it takes to get a winning song, and what we can expect in this year's countdown.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese made an emergency visit to Alice Springs. Local community leaders have been concerned for months about the soaring rates of crime and alcohol-fuelled violence after laws curbing the sale of booze expired in the middle of last year. From Alice Springs, senior reporter Zach Hope tells Rachel Clun what is happening on the ground.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Officially, it’s ‘Australia Day’. But celebrating the landing of the first fleet is increasingly becoming a faux pas, and crowd numbers at Invasion Day rallies are growing by the thousands.  Surveys show the majority of Australians still want to celebrate Australia Day, but more people, particularly younger generations, are choosing to ignore the public holiday altogether. Today, City and Culture reporter for The Age, Sophie Aubrey, on the impending fate of Australia Day and whether this bitterly divided holiday will survive much longer.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s something many of us use every day, but there is growing evidence that gas stoves may be harmful to our health.  An American consumer safety watchdog recently suggested gas stoves could be banned if they couldn’t be made safe, sparking fury among conservative and Republican commentators. One outspoken chef even taped himself to his gas stove in protest.    Now, that heated debate may be coming to Australia.  Today, national environment and climate editor for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Nick O’Malley speaks to reporter Angus Thomson on how an offhand comment from a government watchdog sparked a culture war - and why it’s heading our way soon.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Half a century after humans first touched down on the moon, we are once again planning missions there. Cheaper rockets, more powerful computers, and economic competition with technology at its heart is spurring a growth in space flight. Today, digital foreign editor Chris Zappone speaks to Professor Alan Duffy, an astronomer at Swinburne University and Director of Space Technology and Industry Institute, about the race to get back to the moon and possibly beyond.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Late last week, Jacinda Ardern announced she would be stepping down as New Zealand's prime minister. In her five years as the nation's leader, Jacinda Ardern became a global icon known for her youth, progressive values, and emphasis on a politics of kindness.  So why is she resigning now? And what's next for politics in New Zealand?  Today journalist and author of Jacinda Ardern: The story behind an extraordinary leader, Michelle Duff, joins Julia Carr-Catzel to discuss the end of the Ardern era. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the biggest movies in the world right now is about a robotic doll who goes on a violent rampage. The film is called M3GAN, and it’s part of a new wave of campy, self-aware horror movies that are becoming huge box office success stories. On today's episode, we explore how horror appears to be in the middle of a renaissance right now, thanks to an emphasis on fun, slick marketing, and a healthy dose of social and political satire.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Later this year, Australians are expected to vote in a referendum on the Voice to Parliament - a proposal that aims to enshrine an Indigenous voice in the constitution. The Voice has become a hotly debated topic in politics. But what do Indigenous people think of the proposal?  Over the last few months, Birpai man and reporter for The Age and SMH, Jack Latimore has been trying to answer this question.  He has spoken to dozens of Indigenous people - from capital cities to remote communities - to hear their perspectives on the Voice to Parliament. Today he joins audio producer Julia Carr-Catzel to discuss what he found - and what’s next for the Voice.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet’s misguided decision to wear a Nazi uniform may have been cosplay, but he was playing with fire.  Recent events in the US, Germany and Brazil point to the way far-right movements are taking hold across major democracies, and Australia is not immune from this threat. Today, political and international editor Peter Hartcher joins David King to discuss the collective amnesia behind the revival of fascism, and whether Australia is doing enough to stop its return.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coastal erosion is posing an increasing threat to beach towns across Australia. Each week, there are more reports of cliffs collapsing and properties coming under threat from encroaching water. But governments have been slow to respond to this crisis. Many people in these towns are now questioning how much longer their homes will be around - and what will happen if and when they’re swept into the sea. Today, regional editor for The Age, Benjamin Preiss, joins Chris Zappone to discuss the coastal erosion crisis, and the future of our beloved beach towns.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Andrew Tate has developed a reputation as one of the most popular figures online. In one month last year, the former kickboxer was googled more than Donald Trump, Kim Kardashian, and Covid-19.  But he is also known as one of the most controversial online personalities. He’s been kicked off nearly all social media platforms for his misogynistic views, and has been referred to as the “king of toxic masculinity”.  Now, Tate has been arrested on charges that include human trafficking - reigniting a fierce debate about his views, and the influence he has over young men.  Today social affairs editor for The Age and Sydney Morning Herald Jewel Topsfield joins digital foreign editor Chris Zappone to discuss why some young men idolise Andrew Tate, and the real-world consequences this reverence is having. Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Right now, tennis is losing many of its biggest names.  Last year, Roger Federer and Serena Williams retired, and Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic are in the twilight of their careers. But there’s no obvious answer to who will take their place, and in the meantime, younger generations are tuning out.  Today, columnist for The Sydney Morning Herald, Malcolm Knox, joins journalist Angus Thomson to discuss whether tennis has reached its breaking point - and if a new documentary series could help save it.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Test is a sports documentary series that takes viewers inside the inner sanctum of the Australian men's cricket team, revealing candid conversations and behind-the-scenes tension. One of the show's breakout stars is batter Usman Khawaja. On this episode of The Drop, Usman Khawaja talks about his involvement in the show and why Australian cricket needs to confront its race problem. Also on this episode: The two co-directors of The Test, Adrian Brown and Sheldon Wynne.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. Nick Kyrgios is one of the most talented tennis players on the planet, but also one of the most controversial. Earlier this year, a heated on-court exchange with Greek opponent Stefanos Tsitsipas at Wimbledon landed him in more hot water. On this episode of Please Explain, culture editor Osman Faruqi sat down with host Bianca Hall to discuss why Kyrgios continues to divide opinion. This episode first aired on July 4, 2022.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. Earlier this year, Victorian Labor Premier Daniel Andrews secured a third term of majority government. So who is the Victorian premier really, and how did he cultivate his cult-like status? State political reporter and author of Daniel Andrews: The revealing biography of Australia’s most powerful premier Sumeyya Ilanbey chats about how Daniel Andrews became such a divisive political figure. This episode was hosted by Rachel Eddie and first aired on November 21, 2022. Plus, an update on the death of Cardinal George Pell. 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. Earlier this year, Indigenous teen Cassius Turvey was attacked as he walked home from school with friends in the Perth suburb of Middle Swan. He died ten days later in hospital. Cassius' death highlighted the violence experienced by the Aboriginal community, in this case, in broad daylight. Megan Krakouer, project director of the National Suicide Prevention and Trauma Recovery Project, talks about the Turvey family's pain and why she helped organise vigils across the nation. This episode was hosted by Chris Zappone and first aired on November 8, 2022.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. One of Australia’s most decorated soldiers, Ben Roberts-Smith, sued our newspapers over a series of articles alleging he had committed war crimes. The defamation trial became one of the longest and most expensive the world has seen.  Nick McKenzie, the reporter who broke the Ben Roberts-Smith story, discusses the trial, the courtroom dramas and the moment a soldier, known as Person 7, outed himself as a whistleblower in court. Roberts-Smith denies all allegations that were published by The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald. This episode was hosted by Nathanael Cooper and first aired on March 17, 2022.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. Earlier this year, an inquest into the disappearance of Melissa Caddick began.  Caddick, the notorious Sydney fraudster, became known for her elaborate Ponzi scheme, where she ripped off more than $20 million from friends, family, and even her own parents.  Senior investigative reporter Kate McClymont discussed the case during a lunch break in the first week of the inquest.  This episode was hosted by Chris Paine and first aired on September 16, 2022.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 the lead-up to the federal election in May, we turned the Please Explain spotlight on ourselves: the media. How do journalists and editors decide what to cover and what to skip? How do we address bias? And are we looking for gotcha moments? Then-editor of The Age Gay Alcorn and Sydney Morning Herald editor Bevan Shields discussed these thorny questions with host Nathanael Cooper. This episode first aired on April 22, 2022.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. Earlier this year, North Asia correspondent Eryk Bagshaw wrote a series of stories titled 'Blood Gold', about a bitter feud between Chinese and Australian miners in northern Ghana.   Eryk gives listeners all the gory details about his year-long investigation into a Chinese company accused of stealing millions in gold and firing a "warning shot" that left dozens of locals dead. This episode was hosted by Chris Paine and first aired on August 25, 2022.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 late February, Russian president Vladimir Putin announced his country would begin a “special military operation” in sovereign Ukrainian territory. Almost immediately, Russian troops began attacking various parts of the country, starting the most significant conflict in Europe since World War Two. International editor Peter Hartcher gave listeners a rundown on how Russia and Ukraine reached boiling point. This episode was hosted by Nathanael Cooper and first aired on February 25, 2022.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. Are psychopaths more intelligent than other people, and are they more likely to harm those around them? They were questions that fascinated reporter Sherryn Groch, who went straight to the experts to find out more about this much maligned condition.  She shared her findings with listeners in this episode hosted by Bianca Hall, which first aired on July 26, 2022.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the next couple of weeks, we’re bringing you a series of episodes from our archive.  You’ll hear from Kate McClymont on millionaire fraudster Melissa Caddick, from Nick McKenzie on Ben Roberts-Smith’s alleged war crimes and from Peter Hartcher on the war in Ukraine. Today, we have an episode on the secret origins of the world’s biggest crypto casino, a six-month investigation that took business reporter Sarah Danckert into the murky world of online gambling in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD. This episode was hosted by senior economics writer Jess Irvine and first aired on March 23, 2022.Subscribe to The Age & SMH: https://subscribe.smh.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.