Episodes
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Thousands of us travel through South East Asia every year and it can, at times, be risky.
But the story out of Laos this week is devastating. Nineteen year old Melbourne woman Bianca Jones has died and her friend Holly Bowles is in intensive care after what appears to be methanol poisoning from drinks.
Three other travellers have died and at least 10 people have fallen ill after drinking the alcohol.
Today, what we know about the mass poisoning, how methanol ends up in drinks and the damage it causes to the body.
Featured:
Lauren Day, ABC South East Asia correspondent
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On the one thousandth day of Russia’s war in Ukraine this week there was a major shift on the battleground.
Russia declared that Ukraine, with the backing of US President Joe Biden, had fired US-supplied missiles into its territory for the first time.
Russia’s President Vladimir Putin has also unveiled new rules for his use of nuclear weapons.
Today, former Ukraine ceasefire observer Samir Puri on what it means for the war.
Featured:
Dr Samir Puri, former ceasefire observer in Ukraine, Associate Fellow at Chatham House and author of Westlessness: The Great Global Rebalancing
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Missing episodes?
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We want to hear from you; how can we make our podcast even better? Please take a few minutes to complete our listener survey. Find the link on the ABC News Daily website.
The former broadcaster Alan Jones is heading to court next month to defend charges including aggravated indecent assault, involving nine alleged victims.
But why are the charges for alleged offences between 2001 and 2019, only being laid now?
Today, former Media Watch host Jonathan Holmes on the power Alan Jones once wielded and how it wilted away.
Featured:
Jonathan Holmes, Media Watch presenter 2008 to 2013
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Almost every day since his election, Donald Trump has been unveiling new members of his team.
The picks say a lot. He’s chosen a vaccine sceptic as Health Secretary, a TV host to take charge of defence and an accused drug and sex offender as Attorney General.
Today, National Political Reporter for The Hill, Julia Manchester on what it all says about how Trump will govern.
Featured:
Julia Manchester, National Political Reporter for The Hill
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We want to hear from you; how can we make our podcast even better? Please take a few minutes to complete our listener survey. Find the link on the ABC News Daily website.
About 15 years ago, the then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd was spruiking a ‘Big Australia’, where our population would hit 35 million by 2050.
But the idea went away, without a big plan to deal with the pressures that come with that level of growth being prepared or acted on.
Now, we’re still heading for that kind of population growth without much consideration for what it means for the environment and how we could provide the services and housing for all those people.
Today, business and economics reporter Gareth Hutchens on how big Australia can really get.
He explains that Australia’s population is now over 27 million, largely due to immigration rather than natural increase.
He highlights that the national fertility rate has fallen to a record low, making immigration crucial for economic growth and maintaining the workforce.
Gareth Hutchens also discusses the need for a comprehensive population plan that includes projections for climate change, biodiversity, and infrastructure.
He says that without such a plan, Australia risks facing multiple crises, including housing and water shortages.
Featured:
Gareth Hutchens, business and economics reporter
Key Topics:
Big AustraliaPopulation growthImmigration in AustraliaNational fertility rateEconomic impact of population growthClimate change and populationHousing crisisWater shortages -
Donald Trump has promised to end foreign wars, but on whose terms and how is unclear.
When it comes to the Middle East, we can learn a lot from Trump’s approach to Israel during his first term as president.
Today, Hussein Ibish from the Arab Gulf States Institute in Washington DC on what the president-elect’s return means for the prospects of peace and Israel’s ambitions.
He discusses the potential annexation of the West Bank and highlights the significant support Trump has shown for Israeli sovereignty over Jerusalem and the Golan Heights.
Hussein Ibish also explores the views of key figures like David Friedman and Mike Huckabee in shaping US-Israel relations.
Featured:
Hussein Ibish, senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute
Key Topics:
Donald Trump foreign policyIsrael annexation West BankGreater IsraelUS-Israel relationsMiddle East peace prospectsMike Huckabee ambassadorPalestinian statehood -
He writes pretty decent cookbooks, but Jamie Oliver’s sidestep into writing children’s novels hasn’t gone so well.
The celebrity chef has had to halt sales of his latest book ‘Billy and the Epic Escape’ around the world over its portrayal of first nations Australians.
One chapter features an Aboriginal girl with mystical powers living in foster care, who's abducted from her home in central Australia.
Today, Wiradjuri writer, poet and academic, Jeanine Leane, on what Jamie Oliver got so wrong.
Jeanine Leane criticises the book for perpetuating harmful stereotypes and misrepresenting Aboriginal culture.
She emphasises the importance of cultural sensitivity and the need for proper consultation with First Nations communities.
Leane talks about the ongoing issue of cultural appropriation and the lasting damage it can cause.
She also discusses the role of sensitivity readers in preventing misrepresentations.
Featured:
Jeanine Leane, writer and poet and Associate Professor in Creative Writing at the University of Melbourne
Key Topics:
Jamie Oliver children’s book controversyCultural appropriation in literatureSensitivity readingAboriginal representation in mediaStolen GenerationsMisrepresentation of Indigenous culturesRole of sensitivity readers -
With Donald Trump back in the White House early next year, there’s a real possibility he’ll ignite a trade war with Beijing.
Given Australia does so much trade with China, that could have big consequences for our economy.
Today, we explore what could be in store for inflation, interest rates and our wider economy once Trump’s back in charge.
Economist Susan Stone explains that tariffs generally end up costing consumers and businesses more, and could lead to significant job losses.
She highlights that Australia’s high-tech exports to the U.S. might be impacted, and stresses the importance of finding new markets for these goods.
Dr. Stone also discusses the potential ripple effects on Australia’s economy if Trump’s policies slow down China, Japan, and Korea, our top trading partners.
She says retaliatory tariffs from other countries could further disrupt global trade.
Featured:
Dr Susan Stone, Credit Union SA Chair of Economics at the University of South Australia
Key Topics:
Donald Trump trade policiesU.S.-China trade warAustralian economyInflation and interest ratesTariffs High-tech exportsTrade with China, Japan, and Korea -
The government wants to ban under 16s from social media saying it’s harming children and parents need support.
It’s a move that has the support of the federal opposition and many parents, but does an outright ban risk cutting off important support and sources of information for young people?
Today, we explore some alternative ideas to help make social media safer with a cyber safety expert and an advocate for better mental health for young people.
Kriti Gupta emphasises the importance of educating youth on safe internet use rather than imposing a blanket ban.
She argues that social media can be a crucial tool for maintaining friendships and developmental skills.
Susan McLean highlights the challenges of enforcing such a ban and stresses the need for comprehensive education and parental involvement.
She says many young people rely on social media for community and support, especially those who are socially isolated or neurodivergent.
Both guests agree that while there are risks, a more nuanced approach is necessary to protect and educate young users.
Featured:
Kriti Gupta, youth mental health advocate with ALLKND
Susan McLean, Cyber Safety Solutions
Key Topics:
Social media ban for under 16sYouth mental healthCyber safety educationParentingAge verificationGovernment policies on social media use -
Elon Musk played a huge role in Donald Trump’s campaign, throwing at least $130 million at it.
But what role will the richest man in the world really play when Trump steps into the White House next year?
Today, political scientist Geoff Kabaservice from the Niskanen Centre in Washington DC on the people Trump will need if he wants to rule like a dictator, even for one day.
Geoff Kabaservice discusses the unpredictability of Trump’s promises and the potential for significant disruptions if he follows through on his more extreme proposals.
He highlights the importance of loyalists in Trump’s administration, contrasting it with the previous term where establishment figures curbed Trump’s instincts.
Kabaservice also touches on the controversial roles of Elon Musk and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., emphasising the uncertainty surrounding their influence.
Featured:
Geoff Kabaservice, Vice President for political studies at the Niskanen Centre
Key Topics:
Elon Musk’s financial support for TrumpRobert F. Kennedy JrUS PoliticsDonald TrumpWhite House -
Donald Trump won the election, so what should we expect once he’s in the oval office next year?
Kim Hoggard, a former staffer during the Reagan and George H W Bush administrations, says presidents can feel ‘unleashed’ during their second term.
Today, she explains why voters chose to ignore all of Trump’s flaws and embrace his populist pitch.
She says Trump’s victory is a fundamental shift for America, driven by voters prioritising economic concerns.
Kim Hoggard also discusses Trump's policies, including mass deportations and sweeping tariffs, that could reshape America’s future.
She warns that Trump’s second term could bring significant ideological shifts and increased authoritarian tendencies.
Featured:
Kim Hoggard, a former staffer during Reagan and George H. W. Bush administrations
Key Topics:
Donald Trump election victoryPopulist politics in AmericaEconomic concerns Illegal immigrationPresidential power -
In this update from Washington DC, Matt Bevan, host of If You’re Listening: America’s Last Election, brings you an update on all the events from overnight Australian time.
In a spectacular comeback, Donald Trump has won the US election to become the 47th President of the United States.
Matt is joined on the ground by Emma Shortis from The Australia Institute to explain where the Democrats went wrong and the Republicans went right - and what a more emboldened Trump with the support of the House, the Senate and the Supreme Court means for America.
Featured:
Emma Shortis, director of the international and security affairs program at The Australia Institute
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This is a Wednesday evening update on the US election.
Donald Trump is in a strong position as vote counting continues, he’s already won some swing states and is ahead in others.
ABC global affairs editor John Lyons joins Sam from Washington DC with the latest on the vote count.
Featured:
John Lyons, ABC global affairs editor
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Donald Trump and Kamala Harris have made their final pitches to the American people and voting is finally underway in the United States after a tumultuous campaign.
So, when the polls close, how long will it take for the votes to be counted and a winner to be declared?
Today, the ABC’s US election analyst Casey Briggs explains how it could unfold, when to pay attention and what to watch out for.
Featured:
Casey Briggs, ABC US election analyst
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With just hours until election day starts in America, we’ll just have to wait and see whether Donald Trump or Kamala Harris will win the presidency.
The opinion polls have been inconclusive, with the Democratic and Republican candidates neck and neck in the US states expected to be key.
Today, the ABC’s North America correspondents Barbara Miller and Carrington Clarke join me from Pennsylvania.
They’ve been travelling across the United States throughout this brutal campaign, meeting dozens of voters and they’ll explain what’s behind Trump’s enduring popularity.
Featured:
Barbara Miller, ABC North America correspondent
Carrington Clarke, ABC North America correspondent
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Big interest rate rises since May 2022 have finally seen house prices begin to drop in our most populous cities.
In the latest Corelogic data for October, Sydney home prices fell 0.1% in a month, while Melbourne was 0.2% down.
It’s still a mixed picture across the country, with national home values up 6% for the year, 1.9% down in Melbourne, 3.7% up in Sydney and a massive 22.6% rise in Perth.
With home price rises slowing in some cities, how long will that slump continue and what happens when interest rates begin to fall?
Today, the ABC’s Chief Business Correspondent Ian Verrender explains why home buyers should not get too excited about falls.
He says that despite slight declines, prices remain near record levels in many areas.
Ian Verrender discusses the impact of population growth on housing demand and the challenges of affordability due to stagnant wages and rising costs.
He also says that any future interest rate cuts could quickly reignite demand, potentially pushing prices higher again.
Featured:
Ian Verrender, ABC Chief Business Correspondent
Key Topics:
Interest ratesHouse price trendsCorelogic dataHousing affordabilityPopulation growthHousing supply and demandSydney and Melbourne housing marketsPerth housing market -
Michigan is a key swing state in the US election and there’s a big divide in voting intentions between its biggest city, Detroit, and much of the rest of the state.
Detroit is set to strongly back Kamala Harris, and Donald Trump has compared the city to a developing nation.
With just days until the US election, host of America’s Last Election podcast series Matt Bevan is in Michigan where he’s been gauging the mood of voters.
Today, he discusses hot dogs, a close-ish encounter with Kamala Harris and why Michigan was key to Trump’s last attempt to overturn the election result.
Matt Bevan highlights the strategic importance of voter turnout in Detroit for the Democratic Party and the tactics used by Donald Trump to depress it.
He shares insights from voters on their concerns about the election and the potential for post-election violence.
Featured:
Matt Bevan, host of If You’re Listening: America’s Last Election
Key Topics:
Michigan swing stateKamala HarrisDonald Trump2020 election result challengesUS election voter sentiment -
We’d all like to fly business class, but most of us end up at the back.
So, no wonder claims that the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese arranged personal flight upgrades directly with the boss of Qantas has caused a furore.
Today, Sean Johnson, founder of the Open Politics website and former lobbyist and Liberal party staffer on political gift giving and why it needs to end.
He explains the exclusive nature of the Qantas Chairman’s Lounge and its implications for political transparency.
He highlights the potential conflicts of interest that arise when politicians accept such perks.
Sean Johnson also discusses the broader culture of gift-giving in politics and its impact on public trust.
He proposes a complete ban on gifts and sponsored travel to mitigate these issues.
Editor’s note: After this episode was recorded, the prime minister’s office put out a statement denying that Anthony Albanese ever called former Qantas CEO Alan Joyce to ask for flight upgrades.
Featured:
Sean Johnson, founder of Open Politics
Key Topics:
Anthony Albanese flight upgradesQantas Chairman’s LoungePolitical gift-givingConflicts of interest in politicsPublic trust in politiciansTransparency in governmentPolitical perks and privilegesAnti-Corruption measuresPolitical culture -
Donald Trump says he’s the opposite of a Nazi and his opponent Kamala Harris is a fascist, not him.
But what do his own words and actions show us?
Today, Jennfier Mercieca, historian of political rhetoric from Texas A&M University on how Trump’s language can be likened to Hitler’s and how he uses it to win over his supporters.
She says Trump’s campaign strategy involves terrorising voters into supporting him by exploiting their fears.
She highlights how Trump’s rhetoric includes derogatory comments and fear appeals to create a sense of loyalty among his followers.
Dr. Mercieca also notes that Trump’s repetition of key messages mirrors tactics used by historical fascists to manipulate public perception.
Featured:
Dr Jennifer Mercieca, historian of American political rhetoric
Correction: This episode includes a comment that Hitler was a propagandist during World War One. In fact, Hitler joined the newly formed Nazi Party following World War One in September 1919 and took charge of party propaganda in 1920.
Key Topics:
Donald TrumpKamala HarrisFascismPolitical rhetoricFear appealsAuthoritarianismElection campaign strategiesAdolf Hitler -
More than two and a half years into the war in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin has gone to an ally for help.
Several thousand North Korean troops have arrived in Russia and are expected to join the fight.
Today, Russia expert Matthew Sussex from the Centre for European Studies at the ANU on what it means for the war.
He explains that the North Korean troops are likely to be used in rear-area roles initially, freeing up Russian soldiers for front-line combat.
He highlights that this move is a significant escalation, as it involves a country from Asia sending troops to Europe.
Professor Sussex also discusses the potential benefits for North Korea, including military modernisation and enhanced missile capabilities.
Featured:
Matthew Sussex, an associate professor at the Centre for European studies at the Australian National University
Key Topics:
Ukraine warRussia-North Korea allianceNorth Korean militaryVladimir PutinKim Jong-unRussia-China relationsSouth Korea - Show more
