Now after 15 years the case has reached its climax, landing in the High Court. 

So, who will get to claim the name? 

Today, Dr Sarah Hook an intellectual property law expert at UTS steps us through the trademark fight and what it could mean for all Australian brands. 

Featured: 

Dr Sarah Hook, Senior Lecturer at the School of Law at University of Technology Sydney

Now, Donald Trump is refusing to follow a Supreme Court order to bring the man back to the United States. 

Today, we take you inside the notorious prison where the migrant was first held with SBS Dateline reporter Catalina Florez and look at President Trump’s deal with El Salvador’s president, the self-described ‘world’s coolest dictator’. 

Featured: 

Catalina Florez, SBS reporter

Listeners of ABC News Daily have asked us to delve deeper into how Labor’s renewable energy targets stack up against the Coalition plans for nuclear power and gas. 

Today, political correspondent Melissa Clarke steps us through the fork in the road facing voters.  

Featured: 

Melissa Clarke, ABC Radio National Breakfast political correspondent

The Vatican announced his death on Easter Monday. 

He appeared at St Peter’s Square to bless thousands of people on Easter Sunday just hours before his death.  

The head of the Catholic Church had been in increasingly poor health including spending a lengthy time in hospital with pneumonia. 

The Catholic world is now in mourning for the 88 year old who was elected in March 2013. He’ll be remembered for the progressive, no frills approach he brought to the church.

Today, Vatican Correspondent for the National Catholic Reporter, Christopher White on Pope Francis’s life and legacy.  

Featured:

Christopher White, National Catholic Reporter

So when he says he’s not joking about the possibility of serving another term as President, which is banned under the US constitution, it’s not just seen as a flippant comment. 

Today Philip Klinkner a professor of government at Hamilton College in Clinton New York on how Trump could actually do it 

Featured:

Philip Klinkner, Professor of Government, Hamilton College, New York

From a five percent deposit scheme to tax deductions for mortgage interest, will the policies really help and which party will leave Australians in a better position?

Recently, we brought you our Housing Hostages series with our business editor Michael Janda, all about the housing crisis, how we landed in it and how we get out of it.

Today, Michael is back to explain the new policies and analyse what they’d do to the housing market.

Featured: 

Michael Janda, ABC business editor

Right now, the polls suggest that Labor’s Anthony Albanese is on track to be elected again, with Peter Dutton’s Coalition trailing.

Today, host of the ABC’s 7.30 program, Sarah Ferguson, on what you need to know about the campaign so far and why anything associated with Donald Trump is now toxic to Australian politics.

She explains how the Coalition’s apparent nods to ‘Trumpism’, like appointing a shadow minister for government efficiency and targeting work from home policies have seemingly backfired. 

Plus, her analysis on a listener question about the relevance of the Labor and Liberal leader’s backstories; Albanese from public housing and Dutton the Queensland police officer. 

Featured: 

Sarah Ferguson, host of 7.30

But can the world’s second largest economy weather the storm and even win the trade war against the United States? 

Today, an expert in China’s politics, Neil Thomas, from the Asia Society Policy Institute in Washington on why President Xi Jinping already has the upper hand. 

Featured: 

Neil Thomas, fellow of Chinese politics at the Asia Society Policy Institute in Washington DC

Families on an average income have been priced out of a third of postcodes in five capital cities, with Perth now overtaking Sydney as the least affordable place to rent. 

Today, data journalist Inga Ting on the latest data, what the problem is doing to our cities and how the plight of renters can be improved. 

Featured: 

Inga Ting, data journalist with the ABC's Digital Story Innovations

Now, open feuding with another advisor in the Trump administration over tariff policy could mark a shift in Musk’s relationship with the White House.

But when Musk’s time leading the Department of Government Efficiency is over, will it have been worth it?

Today, Wired reporter Vittoria Elliot on what comes next for the world’s richest man. 

Featured: 

Vittoria Elliot, Wired reporter

Given China is our largest trading partner, what does it mean for our hip pocket? 

Today, economist Susan Stone explains what the economic chaos means for the dollar, shares, superannuation and interest rates. 

Featured: 

Dr Susan Stone, Credit Union SA Chair of Economics at the University of South Australia

So how could that have happened in Australia, where gun control is so tight and where security screening should be amongst the best in the world? 

Today, investigative reporter Josh Roberston on what unfolded and whether a new AI security system at the country’s largest stadium is really fit for purpose. 

Featured: 

Josh Robertson, ABC investigative reporter

The tariffs President Donald Trump has imposed on imports to the United States are rattling global markets with potential wide ranging impacts for our economy.

Our biggest trading partner China is one of the hardest hit, so what happens next? 

Today, chief business correspondent Ian Verrender on why stock market falls could signal something more ‘sinister’ ahead and how Trump’s tariffs have destroyed investor confidence. 

Featured: 

Ian Verrender, ABC chief business correspondent

Our listener, Eric, asked us about defence funding and whether boosting it can be justified when so many Australians are struggling to get by. 

Today, Sam Roggeveen, director of the Lowy Institute’s International Security Program on whether Trump’s America is a reliable ally and why he thinks the Australian continent can be protected without breaking the bank. 

Featured: 

Sam Roggeveen, director of the Lowy Institute’s International Security Program

Global trade is his enemy and his response? Big tariffs, or taxes, charged on goods imported to the United States, from another 34 percent on Chinese imports to 10 percent on everything sent from Australia.

They’re coming into effect this weekend and Trump thinks they will revitalise the American manufacturing industries and the economy. 

The Australian treasurer describes it as a dark day for the global economy.

Today, North America correspondent Carrington Clarke explains what it means for all of us. 

Featured: 

Carrington Clarke, ABC North America correspondent

Now there are revelations about the role the former Prime Minister John Howard and his ministers really played in one of the biggest, most divisive industrial disputes in Australia’s history. 

In April 1998 Patrick Stevedores dismissed and locked out 1400 wharfies from their worksites, planning to install an alternate non-union workforce. 

Today, Jan Fran host of the podcast series Conspiracy? War on the Waterfront on what was hidden from the public until now. 

For the whole series, look for Rewind on the ABC Listen app.

Featured: 

Jan Fran, host of Conspiracy? War on the Waterfront 

But voters are sceptical, with some of our listeners questioning the role of billionaires in our politics. 

Evalyn from Bendigo in Victoria asked us about the mining magnate Gina Rinehart. What influence do donations to political parties get you?

Today, Kate Griffiths from the Grattan Institute explains what we know about political donors. 

Featured: 

Kate Griffiths, researcher at the Grattan Institute

The Netflix crime drama is about a teenage boy accused of murdering a female classmate and it takes the issues of toxic masculinity, loneliness and the gender divide to the extreme. 

It’s got a lot of parents thinking about what their children are seeing on their phones when they’re in their rooms. 

Today, parenting author and educator Michelle Mitchell on what the show gets right and wrong and the responsibilities of parents. 

Featured: 

Michelle Mitchell, parenting author and educator

Almost all of us have eaten Tasmanian farmed salmon at some point, so why has it become so contentious ahead of the federal election? 

Today, Leon Compton, host of ABC Radio’s Tasmania Mornings program, explains the controversy and what it means for the pink flesh fish on so many dining tables. 

Featured: 

Leon Compton, host of ABC Radio Tasmania Mornings

The campaigning is underway after a visit to the Governor General by the Prime Minister. 

So, who will convince Australians they deserve to lead the country for the next three years, Anthony Albanese or Peter Dutton? 

It’s an election with key policy differences so far all about the cost of living and energy policy.  

Today, election analyst Casey Briggs explains why there’s a growing number of swing voters.

He’s been looking at what they’re thinking as politicians begin the hard sell.  

We want you to help shape ABC News Daily’s coverage of this election campaign. Send us a short voice memo telling us what’s caught your attention in this campaign. We’ll dedicate one episode each week of the campaign to explain a policy area and the politics around it with an expert or a journalist. We need topics and policies that a lot of people will be interested in. Email us: abcnewsdaily@abc.net.au

Featured: 

Casey Briggs, ABC election analyst

It happened when the editor-in-chief of The Atlantic was added to a group chat on the popular messaging app Signal, in what appears to be a spectacular breach of US national security.

Today, David Smith, from the United States Studies Centre on the great ‘Signalgate’ scandal. 

Featured: 

David Smith, associate professor of American Politics and Foreign Policy at the United States Studies Centre at the University of Sydney

Today, Laura Tingle, political editor for the ABC’s 7.30 program tells us the new tax cut is the world’s biggest ‘neon sign’, giving the Labor government a selling point for its fourth budget. 

She says there are a few things working politically for the prime minister at the moment as the Coalition ‘implodes’.

But everything can change in the upcoming election campaign. 

Featured: 

Laura Tingle, 7.30 political editor

It’s not much extra, starting at just a few hundred dollars extra over the whole year in 2026-27 for a worker on average earnings. 

At the same time, the budget’s back in red, with a decade of deficits forecast. So, how is Labor managing the economy?

Today, chief business correspondent Ian Verrender joins Sam Hawley in the budget ‘lock up’ where reporters and experts get early access to the government’s economic plan.

Featured: 

Ian Verrender, ABC Chief Business Correspondent

Talks continue this week in Saudi Arabia, but it’s questionable whether Russia’s conditions can ever be accepted by the Ukrainians. 

Today, Matthew Sussex from the Centre for European Studies at the Australian National University on where the talks are up to and what Putin really wants.  

Featured: 

Associate Professor Matthew Sussex, Centre for European Studies at the Australian National University

So why is it that we keep seeing hikes above the inflation rate and are extra government subsidies in this week's budget the best solution? 

Today, energy expert from the Grattan Institute Alison Reeve explains why consumers keep being slugged and what the long-term outlook is for our power costs. 

Featured: 

Alison Reeve, energy and climate change deputy program director at the Grattan Institute

The US president invoked the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to send alleged gang members to El Salvador where they’re being held in a harsh prison. 

It seems that planes were in the air when the judge made the ruling, so why weren’t they turned around? 

Today, what happens if the Trump administration ignores the courts.

Ilya Somin, law professor at George Mason University, on the risks of a constitutional crisis in the United States. 

Featured: 

Ilya Somin, Professor of Law at George Mason University in Virginia and the B. Kenneth Simon Chair in Constitutional Studies at the Cato Institute

The shelves are often bare, there’s a limit on the number of cartons you can take home and prices are rising. 

Today, Landline reporter Tim Lee explains how bird flu is leading to a major egg shortage and why it could last for years. 

Featured: 

Tim Lee, Landline reporter

It’s been around for a while but the toxic relationships it features are increasingly being called into question, with one incident this season being investigated by police. 

Today, Beverley Wang, host of the ABC’s pop culture podcast Stop Everything, on why so many Australians are drawn to the reality show and whether it’s fit for television. 

Featured: 

Beverley Wang, ABC national culture correspondent and host of Stop Everything! 

Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price is now the shadow minister for government efficiency, a title that echoes the Department Of Government Efficiency in the United States. 

So, what will be on the chopping block? And do Australians really want a Trump-style DOGE?

Today, Mark Kenny, director of the Australian Studies Institute at the Australian National University, on whether slashing the public service really saves money in the end. 

Featured: 

Mark Kenny, director of the Australian Studies Institute at the Australian National University and host of ‘Democracy Sausage’ podcast

But is the child care sector being run by the wrong people? Can parents trust their kids will be safe when they drop them off each day? 

Today, Adele Ferguson on her Four Corners investigation into how profits are often put ahead of care and how some centres are not what they seem. 

Editor's note: Adele's investigation 'Betrayal of Trust' goes to air on Monday 17 March at 8.00pm on ABC TV and ABC iview

Featured:

Adele Ferguson, ABC investigative reporter

But can the US president’s new found love for EVs save the brand, with Tesla stock tumbling since CEO Elon Musk took on his high profile role in the Trump administration?

Today, an EV expert on all things Tesla and where EV sales are heading in Australia. We also speak with an Australian Tesla owner who’s struggling with having a Musk-mobile in her driveway. 

Featured: 

‘Vanessa’, Tesla owner

Giles Parkinson, founder and editor of The Driven

So, how will they respond as tens of thousands of claims are lodged after flooding in the wake of ex-Cyclone Alfred? 

Today, national consumer affairs reporter Michael Atkin on why premiums keep rising and what can be done to level the playing field.   

Featured: 

Michael Atkin, ABC national consumer affairs reporter

The former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull, for one, isn’t holding back. His criticism of Donald Trump has landed him in the president’s firing line.

But the real casualty of Trump’s trade policies can be seen on the stock markets, which are suffering heavy falls as the president refuses to rule out a recession.

Today, chief business correspondent Ian Verrender on what’s got the markets so worried and what a Trump recession could mean for all of us.

Update: After we published this episode, the White House confirmed Australia would not be granted an exemption on aluminium and steel imports. 

Featured: 

Ian Verrender, chief business correspondent

The US president has been aligning himself with Russia’s view of the war in Ukraine and pressuring the Ukrainians to start negotiating, without any iron-clad security guarantees. 

As Donald Trump takes a less adversarial approach to Vladimir Putin, who else wins? 

Today, Dan Blumenthal, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, a centre right think tank, on what it all means for China’s ambitions in our region and around the world. 

Featured: 

Dan Blumenthal, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute

Tropical Cyclone Alfred was coming their way and for most residents it was the first time they’d faced such a threat. 

By the next morning Alfred would be downgraded to a tropical low, even before it reached the mainland. 

So what happened? How did it unfold and how should we assess the warnings, preparation and response?

Today, we speak to a cyclone expert and go to Lismore in northern New South Wales where the community is breathing a sigh of relief. 

Featured: 

Jonathan Nott, professor of Geoscience at James Cook University

Jenny Dowell, Red Cross deputy team leader and former mayor of Lismore

In this final episode of our series, ABC business editor Michael Janda looks at what really needs to be done on supply and demand to make it just a little bit easier for people to buy a home. 

We’ll also take you to Melbourne, where apartment prices have flatlined over the past five years and first home buyers are flooding into the market. 

We’ll explain what it will take to finally free Australia’s housing hostages. 

New Zealand is in a recession and home values are more than 17 per cent lower than the post-COVID peak. In Ireland, a massive house price surge and crash in the 2000s saw house prices in Dublin more than half. 

So, does Australia need a crash and what would that mean for all of us? 

Some economists think recessions are needed occasionally to reset the economy. In this episode ABC business editor Michael Janda explains how a shock wave would ripple through the economy if the housing bubble bursts. 

Is the medicine worth the pain? 

You can pick your villain. Is it immigrants, investors, Howard and Costello, the big banks, or something else? 

In this episode, ABC business editor Michael Janda identifies the key moments and policies that cemented property as a lucrative investment, creating a mismatch in supply and demand and sending house prices to extraordinarily high levels. 

Exorbitant home prices not only keep Australians in the crowded and expensive rental market, but they also change life plans and society. 

In this episode, ABC business editor Michael Janda explains why housing crisis is the country’s biggest issue. It locks people into debt, delays retirement, creates stress and insecurity, contributes to falling birth rates and exacerbates inequalities between the generations. 

We’re hostage to housing. 

This is Housing Hostages; a five-part series from ABC News Daily. With the help of ABC business editor Michael Janda, we’ll get to the heart of the housing crisis and explain why we’re all hostage to housing. 

Imagine owning dozens of properties at once. In this episode, investing expert Margaret Lomas explains how climbing the property ladder over decades delivered her housing and financial security. We meet desperate first home buyers and explain why emulating Margaret’s property success is now impossible. 

In this series, we’ll scrutinise the possible culprits for this crisis and look at how our housing fortunes influence everything from birth rates to retirement plans. Is it time for the housing bubble to burst and what lessons are there from overseas about what happens next?

Finally, we examine the supply solution that so many vested interests reach for and ask; what really needs to be done to boost the supply of housing and dampen demand for it, to try to make things just a little bit better?   

But it was a man dressed all in black, wearing a T-shirt, jeans and a black MAGA cap who dominated the room. 

Elon Musk is the man of the moment, as he goes about slashing government spending and jobs. 

Today, Tom Nichols, staff writer at The Atlantic, on what Musk and Trump are really trying to achieve. 

Featured: 

Tom Nichols, staff writer at The Atlantic

That should mean that most people who want a job, have a job. 

But for anyone looking to switch jobs or climb up the ladder it’s really hard. 

Experienced professionals who have decades of experience are being overlooked for cheaper, younger talent. 

Today, business reporter Nassim Khadem on why job hunting’s become like online dating, where hirers ‘ghost’ applicants. 

Featured: 

Nassim Khadem, ABC business reporter

But how would that work and would it be risky having soldiers from European nations on Russia’s doorstep?

Today, Russia expert Matthew Sussex on the three-year anniversary and what version of peace the US and Russian leaders are aiming for. 

Featured: 

Matthew Sussex, associate professor at the Centre for European Studies at the Australian National University

But what was behind the fall in the first place and can $8.5 billion fix it? 

Today, health economist Stephen Duckett on how the bulk billing incentive policy could work and whether your GP is about to offer bulk billing. 

Featured:

Stephen Duckett, Honorary Enterprise Professor in the School of Population and Global Health at the University of Melbourne

It’s technology to produce eggs and sperm in a lab, possibly from just the skin cells of a prospective parent. 

It would, in theory, allow three people to create a baby or even just one person, alone. 

Today, Dr Alexandra Harvey, a senior research scientist with Melbourne IVF on the science behind it and the ethical dilemmas it will bring.

Featured: 

Dr Alexandra Harvey, senior research scientist at Melbourne IVF

Trump’s vice president JD Vance has thrown his support behind far-right parties in Germany.

At the same time, talks on ending the war in Ukraine began with only the US and Moscow at the table. 

It was a week where we saw an extraordinary shift in American foreign policy, which led to European leaders holding crisis talks. 

Today, Samir Puri, director of Chatham House’s centre for global governance and security on how it all unfolded and the consequences that could follow.  

Featured: 

Dr Samir Puri, Director of the Centre for Global Governance and Security at Chatham House and author of Westlessness: The Great Global Rebalancing

So, why is there speculation that the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese might call an early election because of it?

Today, we speak to someone whose life was upended by the 13 interest rate rises and to a pollster about why Labor’s finding it hard to convince voters it’s not to blame for the financial pain.  

Featured: 

‘Jane’, former home owner

Kos Samaras, former Labor strategist and director of the RedBridge Group

Now, Australia’s central bank has delivered a slight reprieve to borrowers, taking 25 basis points off the interest rate for mortgages, once the banks pass it on. 

Today, the ABC’s finance expert Alan Kohler on what it means for households and when the next cut might be. 

Featured: 

Alan Kohler, ABC finance expert

Most commentators say it performs just as well as the market-leader ChatGPT, but should we be wary of it? 

Each time users open it up and type something into that box, the app is gathering information and sending it back to servers in China. 

Today, ABC technology reporter Ange Lavoipierre on why the Australian government has banned it on its devices and whether the rest of us should avoid using it. 

Featured: 

Ange Lavoipierre, ABC national technology reporter

He started to get obsessed by politics and thought the country was headed in the wrong direction. 

It wasn’t until his mother saw a photo of her son on the news that she realised he’d joined a neo-Nazi group. 

Emily hopes a deradicalisation program will keep her son safe from extremists, but there’s concern about the availability and quality of the services. 

Today, Four Corners reporter Avani Dias on Emily’s case and a rise in extremism among young Australians.   

Featured: 

Avani Dias, Four Corners reporter

The US president chose to call the instigator of the war Vladimir Putin first to discuss a potential deal, raising fears he’ll push Ukraine to the sidelines. 

The US is already insisting that Ukraine can’t restore its territory to what it had in 2014 and it says Ukraine won’t join the NATO military alliance. 

Today, international relations expert Rajan Menon on what peace might really look like under Trump. 

Featured: 

Rajan Menon, professor emeritus of international relations at the City College of New York and senior research scholar at Columbia University

One says they’ll refuse to treat Israeli patients and the other even claims he’s killed Israeli patients.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said the comments made by the pair were "vile, dehumanising and unacceptable".

Today, Deborah Stone from The Jewish Independent news website on the footage and the response to it. 

Featured: 

Deborah Stone, editor-in-chief of The Jewish Independent

Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been on a phone call with the US president, urging him to exempt Australia from the 25 per cent import tax. 

The key argument is that Australia imports a lot more from the US than it sells there. 

Today, economist Susan Stone on the latest front in the trade wars and what it means for us. 

Featured: 

Dr Susan Stone, Credit Union SA Chair of Economics at the University of South Australia

USAID was set up by President John F. Kennedy and supports humanitarian projects across the globe. 

Already there are reports of people dying on the Thai-Myanmar border when a US supported hospital in a refugee camp was abruptly shut down. 

So, what’s Mr Musk up to and why?

Featured: 

Matthew Maury, interim CEO of The Australian Council for International Development

Alan Yu, senior vice president for National Security and International Policy at the Center for American Progress

But when it was devised by a Belgian mathematician almost 200 years ago, it was never supposed to be a tool to measure health.

Now, researchers are challenging the way obesity is defined and diagnosed. Today, a look at the new approach and why there’s a global push away from BMI.

Featured: Willow Moscarda, Perth studentDr Louise Bauer, Professor of child and adolescent health, University of Sydney

It shows Sam Kerr calling a police constable ‘f***ing stupid and white.’ 

Now the Matildas captain is on trial over allegations she racially harassed him.

Today, host of The Sports Ambassador podcast Tracey Holmes walks us through the case. 

Featured: 

Tracey Holmes, The Sports Ambassador podcast host

The idea, unleashed in a joint press conference with the Israeli Prime Minister at the White House, is a complete upending of decades of Middle Eastern policy that could involve American troops on the ground. 

Today, Hussein Ibish from the Arab Gulf States Institute on the implications of Trump’s words and what might come next.  

Featured:

Hussein Ibish, senior scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, Washington D.C.

The surprising U-turn has rattled financial markets and revived fears of a global trade war. 

So, what on earth is the US President up to and how will the global economy respond? 

Today ABC TV’s finance expert Alan Kohler on what Trump’s tariff moves mean for Australia. 

Featured:

Alan Kohler, ABC TV finance expert

President Donald Trump is making good on his threats to target those accused of crimes first, with plans to send tens of thousands of people to Guantanamo Bay detention centre. 

Today, an immigration attorney from Texas explains how the new policy is playing out on the ground.

Featured:

Ruby Powers, immigration attorney in Houston, Texas

There has been a concerning decline in performance in numeracy and literacy tests over the past two decades. 

Today, education reporter Conor Duffy on why Australian students underperform and how one group is bucking the trend. 

Conor Duffy explains that the most recent NAPLAN tests show one third of students not meeting minimum benchmarks. 

He says students from language backgrounds other than English are consistently outperforming their peers. 

Conor Duffy emphasises the importance of parental engagement in improving student outcomes. 

Featured: 

Conor Duffy, education reporter

Key Topics:

• Australian education 
• NAPLAN test results
• Literacy and numeracy performance
• Language backgrounds other than English (LBOTE)
• Parental engagement in education
• Inquiry-based learning vs. explicit teaching

A note found in the van indicated that Jewish sites were the targets. 

Today, terrorism expert Greg Barton on what we know about the case and if anything can be done now to stop the rise in anti-Semitism. 

Police say the explosives could have had a blast zone radius of 40 metres.

Professor Barton explains that the use of explosives usually used in mining suggests links to organised crime. 

He also highlights the chilling possibility of a mass casualty event targeting Jewish sites. 

The discussion delves into the complexities of labelling the incident as terrorism and the potential involvement of foreign actors. 

Featured: 

Greg Barton, terrorism expert and Professor of Global Islamic Politics at Deakin University

Key Topics:

• Anti-Semitism in Australia
• Terrorism threats
• Explosives
• Jewish community 
• Counter-terrorism 
• Social cohesion

It’s a cost cutting body for government spending run by the world’s richest man Elon Musk. 

Last weekend, the opposition leader Peter Dutton unveiled the Coalition’s brand-new spokeswoman for government efficiency, supposed to cut wasteful spending here in Australia.

Today, host of The Party Room podcast, Patricia Karvelas on why Mr Dutton will only go so far down the Trump path.  

She highlights eerie similarities between Dutton's new portfolio and Trump's DOGE.

She also explains how Dutton is selectively adopting parts of Trump's agenda that he believes will resonate with Australian voters. 

Patricia Karvelas says Dutton's approach is tailored to the unique political landscape of Australia, which differs from the US in key ways.

Featured: 

Patricia Karvelas, host of The Party Room podcast

Key Topics:

• Donald Trump
• DOGE (Department Of Government Efficiency)
• Elon Musk
• Peter Dutton
• Jacinta Nampijinpa Price
• Australian politics
• Government efficiency
• Gina Reinhart
• Voice referendum
• Culture wars

When a little-known Chinese company DeepSeek launched its own surprisingly capable artificial intelligence chatbot, the sector panicked. 

DeepSeek claims to have developed its model despite spending far less money on expensive computer chips than its US-based competitors. 

Today, Professor Michael Blumenstein from the Australian Artificial Intelligence Institute at UTS on what DeepSeek has managed to pull off and how it could change the entire AI landscape. 

Featured: 

Michael Blumenstein, University of Technology Sydney

A growing number of Australians are trying just that, with limited success. 

Today, national consumer affairs reporter, Michael Atkin, on why insurance costs continue to surge and how Australians are trying to force the insurance giants to justify the hikes.  

Michael Atkin explains that insurance premiums have jumped 11% in the past year, following even higher increases in previous years. 

He shares stories from frustrated home owners like Mark Stacey and Warren Vant, who have seen their premiums skyrocket. 

The industry justifies these hikes, citing increased severe weather and inflation. 

Michael Atkin says while some consumers have had success challenging their insurers through the Australian Financial Complaints Authority, many others have not been as fortunate.

Featured: 

Michael Atkin, national consumer affairs reporter

Key Topics:

• Insurance premium hikes
• Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)
• Natural disasters and insurance
• Inflation and building costs

It worked so well, many employers and employees continue to enjoy it. But what if that was to all end in an instant?

Some big companies like Amazon have had enough of WFH and have ordered their workers back to the office full time. 

It has implications for worker productivity and staff retention that any business considering a mandate will need to consider. 

Today, economist Leonora Risse explains the “return to office” trend.

Leonora Risse says some companies believe the benefits of being on-site outweigh the gains of working from home.

She notes that Amazon's decision is seen as a way to enhance teamwork, learning, and collaboration. 

Leonora Risse suggests that companies should carefully consider the potential costs of losing valuable employees before making drastic changes. 

Featured: 

Leonora Risse, associate professor in economics at the University of Canberra

Key Topics:

• Working from home
• Return to office
• Amazon 
• Employee productivity
• Staff retention
• Team collaboration
• Hybrid work models
• Gender and work flexibility
• Labour market trends

From immigration policy to pardons for the January 6 rioters, the president is quickly changing America. 

Today, senior political correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, Molly Ball, on the defining moments of Donald Trump’s first days as the 47th US President. 

Molly Ball says Trump’s second term feels more focused and self-assured, with less infighting and more decisive actions. 

She highlights the sweeping changes to immigration policy and the controversial pardons for January 6 rioters. 

Ball also notes the significant shift in Trump's approach, with a well-organised team executing his central promises. 

The episode delves into the potential long-term consequences of Trump's actions on American society and the political landscape.

Featured: 

Molly Ball, senior political correspondent for The Wall Street Journal

Key Topics:

• Donald Trump
• Immigration policy
• January 6 pardons
• Birthright citizenship
• Executive orders
• US politics
• Trump administration
• US Capitol riot
• Trump’s second term

So, is enough being done to stop the crimes and are our political leaders making things better or worse? 

Today, social justice advocate Tim Costello on the unrest in our cities linked to the October 7 terrorist attack and the bloodshed in Gaza. He says there's an urgent need for political leaders to turn down the temperature. 

Mr. Costello shares his personal experiences and observations on the impact of these attacks on the Jewish and Muslim communities in Australia. 

He calls for justice for both sides and stresses the need for grassroots efforts to foster understanding and cooperation.

Featured: 

Tim Costello, senior fellow at the Centre for Public Christianity 

Key Topics:

• Anti-Semitic attacks in Sydney
• October 7 terrorist attack
• Israel-Hamas war
• Social cohesion 
• Jewish and Muslim communities 

One of his first acts was to pardon more than 1,500 defendants from the attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021.

He also withdrew the US from the Paris climate accord and the World Health Organisation. 

Today, political scientist Geoff Kabaservice from the centre-right think-tank the Niskanen Centre on Trump’s busy first day back in the White House. 

Featured: 

Geoff Kabaservice, Vice President for political studies at the Niskanen Centre

The platform run by Chinese-owned ByteDance went offline for US users, with the firm saying it acted to comply with a law that banned it unless it sold its US operations to local owners. 

The law was passed with US politicians citing national security concerns. 

But it only took a promise from the incoming president to sign an executive order delaying the ban to get content creators and scrollers back online. 

Today, Vittoria Elliott from WIRED on why the TikTok ban failed and what happens next. 

Featured: 

Vittoria Elliot, WIRED reporter covering platforms and power

So, what can we expect from the technology this year?

Today, Toby Walsh, the chief scientist at the AI institute at the University of New South Wales on whether this is the year that AI tools really start to make life easier.

He explains what AI developments mean for job losses and why you should start using AI tools at work. 

Featured: 

Toby Walsh, Chief Scientist at UNSW.ai, the AI Institute of University of New South Wales Sydney

Incoming US president Donald Trump has taken credit for it and his impending inauguration did give the negotiations a boost.

Today, Hussein Ibish from the Arab Gulf States Institute on whether peace will hold.

He says there's enormous relief felt on both sides, with Israelis overjoyed at the prospect of getting hostages back and Palestinians desperate for a break from the violence. 

He highlights the significant pressure placed on Prime Minister Netanyahu by Trump to finalise the deal before his inauguration. 

Dr. Ibish also discusses the complexities of the agreement, including the phased approach and the challenges of ensuring a lasting peace. 

He notes the potential for renewed conflict if key actors are not fully committed to the ceasefire.

Featured: 

Hussein Ibish, senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute

Key Topics:

• Gaza ceasefire
• Israeli hostages
• Donald Trump
• Benjamin Netanyahu
• Joe Biden
• Humanitarian aid
• Hamas
• Palestinian Authority
• Rebuilding Gaza
• Middle East peace process
• US foreign policy

That hurts travellers going to the United States for a holiday, but some economic commentators think it also means Australia’s Reserve Bank should hold off longer on cutting interest rates. 

Our chief business correspondent Ian Verrender doesn’t agree. 

Today, he explains why China and Trump are largely behind the fall in the Australian dollar and why interest rate cuts should still be on the table. 

Ian says the strength of the US dollar, driven by Trump's tariffs and economic policies, is a major factor in the Australian dollar's decline. 

Featured: 

Ian Verrender, ABC chief business correspondent

Key Topics:

• Australian dollar decline
• US dollar strength
• Trump's tariffs
• Reserve Bank interest rates
• Local exporters
• Import prices
• China's economic slowdown
• Economic policies
• Currency speculation

The head of Australia’s largest firefighting service says yes, Sydney, with its national parks so close to homes, could see similar devastation. 

Today, the New South Wales Rural Fire Service Commissioner Rob Rogers, who will leave the service at the end of this fire season, on how firefighters have responded to the threat in LA and how we need to prepare. 

Commissioner Rogers discusses the challenges faced by firefighters in LA, including the impact of strong winds and drought conditions. 

He highlights the importance of timely warnings and the role of AI in improving fire response. 

As he prepares to retire, Rogers reflects on the evolving nature of fire seasons and the critical role of volunteers in firefighting efforts.

Featured: 

Rob Rogers, Commissioner of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service

Key Topics:

• Bushfire risk in Australian cities
• Firefighting strategies in Los Angeles
• Impact of drought and strong winds on fires
• Role of AI in fire management
• Global sharing of firefighting resources
• Fire seasons
• Volunteer firefighters
• Future of firefighting 

But last week as wildfires tore through communities, he and thousands of others saw their homes burn to the ground.

Today, Mark describes the apocalyptic scenes he witnessed and the emotional toll of losing his home. 

We also speak with Vivien Thomson who has been a rural firefighter for decades and was a fire captain during the 2003 Canberra bushfires. 

Vivien speaks about the lessons learned over the years and whether we’re better prepared now. 

Featured: 

Mark Whalen, Australian artist in LA

Vivien Thomson, rural firefighter and farmer

Key Topics:

• LA wildfires
• Mark Whalen
• Vivien Thomson
• Rural firefighting
• 2003 Canberra bushfires
• Fire preparedness
• Climate change and wildfires
• Community resilience
• Firefighting resources
• Building codes and fire safety

This year it’s Australia’s turn and if we follow the voting trends of other nations, we’ll either kick Anthony Albanese’s Labor party out of office or come close to it. 

That’s because there’s a big movement, particularly in western democracies against incumbent governments.

Today, Mark Kenny from the Australian Studies Institute at the Australian National University explains the major shift in voting patterns. 

He highlights how the post-pandemic economic struggles and rising distrust in democratic institutions are driving voters to seek change.

Mark Kenny warns of the potential long-term implications for democratic stability if current trends continue. 

He says a lot of voters feel betrayed by their governments and there is a factual basis to the sense of umbrage felt by citizens towards their governments. 

Featured: 

Mark Kenny, director of the Australian Studies Institute at the Australian National University and host of ‘Democracy Sausage’ podcast

Key Topics:

• 2024 global elections
• Australian federal election 2025
• Anthony Albanese
• Labor party
• Peter Dutton
• Liberal party
• National party
• Voting trends
• Incumbent governments
• Populist movements
• Cost of living crisis
• Public trust in government

These conditions have highlighted the dangers of climate change and how it’s making life harder for firefighters around the world, something that’s been felt deeply by Australians.

Today, Former Fire and Rescue New South Wales commissioner Greg Mullins on the threat posed by increasing overlap in fire seasons between Australia and the United States. 

We’ll also hear from Maddie Power, a resident of Altadena in LA who has lost everything in the blaze.

Featured:

Greg Mullins, Former Fire and Rescue New South Wales commissioner

Maddie Power, Los Angeles resident

Hurricane-force winds have sent fireballs from house to house, torching entire streets and destroying more than 1,000 buildings.

Celebrities including actor Billy Crystal and heiress Paris Hilton are among the residents whose homes have burnt down across several affluent suburbs, where tens of thousands more people have been forced to evacuate. 

Today, LA-based meteorologist Jonathon Porter explains what’s making the fires so destructive, and reality TV estate agent Jason Oppenheim explains the neighbourhoods most affected.

Featured:

Jason Oppenheim, LA-based real estate agent

Jonathon Porter, AccuWeather Chief meteorologist Jonathon Porter

He told reporters the United States needs to acquire the Danish territory for national security reasons, and has threatened heavy tariffs on Denmark if they don’t agree. 

Today, ANU professor of International Law Don Rothwell on what Donald Trump wants with these territories, and how far might go to take them.

Featured: 

Don Rothwell, professor of international law at the Australian National University

Despite his immense popularity when he was elected, in recent years he’s faced  increased criticism from the public, with polls showing he was on track to lose badly when Canadians vote later this year. Now he’s bowed to pressure from his own party to step down. 

But what's behind the downfall of the former darling of Canadian politics?

Featured: 

Lori Turnbull, Political analyst and Professor of Political Science at Dalhousie University in Canada

Now, his win in last year’s election is about to be ratified in that very building, giving him the power to pardon convicted rioters. Will Donald Trump deliver on his promise?

Today, Elie Honig, a former US federal and state prosecutor and senior legal analyst for CNN on how the incoming president will use his executive powers, and what it could mean for the US justice system. 

Featured:

Elie Honig, CNN senior legal analyst 

It's unclear how much of a role their service played in their violence but data out of the US shows there has been an increase in veterans being involved in violent acts or being recruited by extremist groups.

Today, Todd Helmus, an expert on military extremism with the US think tank RAND on what could be behind the rise in violent behaviour in ex-military personnel. 

Featured: 

Todd Helmus, military extremism expert, RAND

Revellers were ringing in 2025 in the New Orleans' French quarter, the city's busiest party district in the early hours of New Year's Day.

Federal authorities are describing it as an act of terror.

Today, former FBI and department of homeland security official, Dr. Javed Ali on how the New Orleans investigation is unfolding and the planning required to pull off such a deadly attack. 

Featured:

Dr. Javed Ali, former FBI and department of homeland security official

Update: Authorities have clarified that 14 people were killed in the truck attack. The earlier reported death toll of 15 included Jabbar, who was killed by police during a shootout at the scene. At least 30 others were injured.

And while high interest rates and cost of living pressures are expected to be the top concerns for both major parties and voters, the battleground itself will also look different, with new changes to electoral seats and boundaries. 

Today, the ABC's Chief Elections Analyst Antony Green speaks with ABC News Radio’s Tom Melville about why the next parliament is set to change.

Featured: 

Antony Green, ABC Chief Elections Analyst

It comes just days after Oscar Jenkins became the first known Australian citizen to be captured by Russian forces, after enlisting in Ukraine's foreign legion earlier this year. 

Today, international law expert Professor Don Rothwell speaks to ABC News Radio about whether Australia could make exchange negotiations similar to those used for the New Year’s prisoner swaps, to bring Oscar Jenkins home.

Featured:

Professor Don Rothwell, ANU College of Law

The plane, which was flying from Thailand to Muan International Airport in South Korea, was attempting an emergency landing when it crashed. 

There were only two survivors.

Today, US aviation industry consultant Scott Hamilton speaks with ABC News Radio's Sarah Mourice about what could have happened in the cockpit moments before the tragedy. 

Featured:

Scott Hamilton, US aviation industry consultant Leeham Company

In many cases they’re clearly fake but there are scams that aren’t so obvious, and Australians have lost billions of dollars to them. 

Today, consumer affairs reporter Michael Atkin on why more of us are falling for the traps set by criminals and what the big banks should be doing to protect us. 

First published 10 May 2024.

Featured: 

Michael Atkin, ABC consumer affairs reporter

But as it faces the challenges of an economic slowdown and an ageing society, Beijing is urging families to have more babies to stop a population decline that’s been recorded for a second year in a row. 

But is a falling birth rate necessarily a bad thing? 

First published 26 February 2024. 

Featured: 

Stuart Gietel-Basten, Professor of Social Science and Public Policy at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

It’s more complicated than you’d think. 

Today, climate reporter Jo Lauder compares the lifetime greenhouse gas footprint of an electric car with that of a petrol car and delivers the verdict. 

First published 31 May, 2024.

Featured: 

Jo Lauder, ABC climate reporter

Melbourne woman Claudia had that inkling in Barcelona recently when locals made it clear they wanted her to go home. 

Today, we look at the growing anger in some of the most popular tourist cities and what is being done to try to ease the pressure. 

First published 24 May, 2024.

Featured: 

Claudia, Australian tourist

Sebastian Zenker, professor in tourism at the Copenhagen Business School

But they went ahead and released a chatbot that the actor thinks sounds “eerily similar” to herself. 

As artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated, how do we protect ourselves from being copied? 

First published 24 May, 2024.

Featured: 

Sharon Goldman, AI reporter at Fortune

It was the third time Darwin had been razed to the ground by a cyclone, but within three days the prime minister had committed to rebuilding Australia's northern capital in the same spot. 

In this final of a two-part series, Darwin reporter Jane Bardon hears how Tracy prompted an overhaul of the National Construction Code. 

It's supposed to ensure buildings on Australia's northern coast can withstand a category four cyclone.

But is the building industry adhering to the code, and as climate change threatens more severe cyclones and storms surges, is the code up to the job?

Featured:

Jane Bardon, ABC Darwin journalist

Leo Athanasiou, Darwin builder and Athanasiou Group Director

Dawn Lawrie, former Northern Territory Assembly MLA

Jared Archibald, Museum and Art Gallery Northern Territory history curator

Elisha Harris, Harris Kmon Solutions structural engineer

Charmain Enthaler, Charles Darwin University architecture lecturer

Now, 50 years since the disaster that changed the nation, Darwin's population is three times what it was then. 

Why did so many survivors return to the cyclone belt to rebuild Darwin and their lives?

In this first of a two-part series, Darwin reporter Jane Bardon hears first hand accounts of a night of terror and explores how the event became life-defining.

What we can learn from how survivors have dealt with their trauma, as we face a changing climate in which many more communities will suffer the effects of cyclones, floods and fires?

Featured: 

Jane Bardon, ABC Darwin journalist

Richard Creswick, former ABC Darwin journalist

June Mills, Larrakia elder

Alan Haines, former fuel depot worker

Dr Sadhana Mahajani, former Darwin doctor

Dr Arun Mahajani, former Darwin surgeon

Jared Archibald, Museum and Art Gallery Northern Territory history curator

But given the cost of housing, it's being felt very differently across the generations. 

Today, ABC finance expert Alan Kohler and his son, Nine News finance editor Chris Kohler on how the pinch is affecting Australians and what’s in store for 2025. 

Alan Kohler discusses the significant impact of high interest rates and the challenges faced by younger generations in entering the housing market. 

He explains how immigration and government spending masks the true extent of economic hardship. 

Chris Kohler discusses the lack of competition in key industries, such as supermarkets, and its effect on consumer prices. 

Featured:

Alan Kohler, ABC finance presenter

Chris Kohler, Nine News finance editor

Key Topics:

• Cost of living crisis
• Housing affordability
• Generational economic divide
• High interest rates
• Immigration and economy
• Government spending
• Competition in supermarkets
• Economic outlook 2025
• Consumer prices

Today, the ABC's global affairs editor John Lyons reflects on how 2024 played out and what 2025 could bring. 

He's travelled the world to cover the big stories. 

In this episode, John Lyons shares personal anecdotes from his travels, noting the resilience and common aspirations of people in conflict zones. 

Featured: 

John Lyons, ABC global affairs editor

Key Topics:

• Middle East conflict
• Ukraine war
• Donald Trump re-election
• Global elections 2024
• Gaza humanitarian crisis
• Geopolitical shifts 2025
• Economic challenges 2025
• Taylor Swift Eras Tour
• International resilience
• Global affairs analysis

Ahead of an election year, will the prime minister's message cut through?

Today, 7.30's chief political correspondent Laura Tingle on the year in politics and what 2025 could bring. 

She says the government has tried to provide relief through targeted tax cuts and energy subsidies, though these measures have had limited impact on reducing everyday expenses. 

Laura Tingle also examines the political challenges faced by the government, including the optics of Prime Minister Albanese's personal decisions and the opposition's critique of government spending. 

Looking ahead to 2025, she explores the potential strategies for both the government and the opposition as they prepare for the upcoming election.

Featured: 

Laura Tingle, 7.30 chief political correspondent

Key Topics:

• Anthony Albanese
• Cost of living
• Australian politics 2024
• Inflation in Australia
• 2025 federal election
• Peter Dutton
• Economic policy
• Energy subsidies
• Tax cuts
• Political strategy

That’s why universities and schools were quick to ban it entirely.

But now, the University of Sydney is leading the way to overturn that ban which it says doesn’t work. 

Today, Professor of Educational Technologies Danny Liu on a new way to test students that gets around the AI problem. 

Featured: 

Danny Liu, Professor of Educational Technologies, University of Sydney 

What does that mean and did the prime minister react too slowly to a rise in anti-Semitism? 

Today, host of Radio National Breakfast and the Party Room podcast, Patricia Karvelas, on how the conflict in the Middle East is reverberating here.

Featured: 

Patricia Karvelas, host of ABC Radio National Breakfast and the Party Room podcast

Then, the offender evades police for almost a week, before Luigi Mangione is arrested in a McDonalds in Pennsylvania.

It’s a captivating murder case because some people seem to be gleefully rallying behind the alleged gunman. 

It’s a sign of deep anger in America when it comes to healthcare and insurance. 

Today, North America correspondent Carrington Clarke on the morbid response to the killing. 

Featured: 

Carrington Clarke, ABC North America correspondent

The dictator Bashar al-Assad fled Damascus to Russia, where he’s reportedly been given asylum. 

But with the main Syrian rebel group behind the movement being a declared terrorist organisation in Australia and having previous links to Al Qaeda, what does the future hold? 

Today, the ABC’s Global Affairs Editor John Lyons on what comes next and what it means for the Middle East. 

Featured: 

John Lyons, ABC Global Affairs Editor

That’s why Australians who have a house, a roof and some money are increasingly getting solar panels. 

But there is a problem because there is a thing as too much solar.

Today, energy reporter Dan Mercer explains that the surge of solar power is risking stability of the power grid and it’s a bit like riding a bike. 

Featured: 

Dan Mercer, ABC energy reporter

She’s now thinking about what life will be like for her in Donald Trump’s America. 

The president-elect has promised to start the process of deporting millions of illegal immigrants on day one of his return to the White House. 

Many, like Esveidy and her parents, have lived in America for years.

Today, we speak with Esveidy and hear how she’s feeling about what happens in 2025.  

Troops were deployed to the streets of Seoul, politicians rushed to the parliament building and protestors made their voices heard. 

After a parliamentary vote blocked the order, the martial law was rescinded in an embarrassing backdown. 

So, what on earth was President Yoon Suk Yeol trying to achieve and what does it mean for South Korea’s future?

Today, Kyung Moon Hwang from the Australian National University who was in the capital Seoul when it all unfolded. 

Featured: 

Kyung Moon Hwang, Korea Foundation Professor and director of the ANU Korea Institute

Kim Williams is the current chairman of the ABC and Joe Rogan is a podcast host with tens of millions of followers around the globe. 

Today, technology and online culture journalist Taylor Lorenz on the day Kim Williams took on Joe Rogan and how the podcaster became so popular and influential. 

Featured: 

Taylor Lorenz, writer of tech and online culture newsletter User Mag

In his final weeks in office, Joe Biden has pardoned his son Hunter Biden for gun and tax charges.

Today, host of the ABC’s Planet America John Barron on what it means for the outgoing president’s legacy.  

Featured: 

John Barron, co-host of Planet America

One theory is the Democrats have all but abandoned the working class and Trump made them feel seen. 

So, ahead of Australia’s own election next year, how are working class people feeling about politics?

Today, political strategist and pollster Kos Samaras on how their economic plight will affect the election result. 

Featured: 

Kos Samaras, former Labor strategist and director of the RedBridge Group

As a former foreign correspondent, it’s a story Sam Hawley knows well, because she went inside Kerobokan prison for a week in 2017. 

She spoke with two members of the Bali Nine, Si Yi Chen and Matt Norman and has followed their story ever since. 

Today, Sam speaks with Cindy Wockner, who was also a correspondent at the time, about the deal being worked on that might bring them home. 

Featured: 

Cindy Wockner, ABC journalist, author of The Pastor and the Painter and co-author of Bali 9: The Untold Story

But a jury has found him guilty of manslaughter.

Today, we speak with reporter Jason Om who has been covering the case and with criminologist Xanthe Mallett about how police use tasers. 

Featured: 

Jason Om, 7.30 reporter

Xanthe Mallett, associate professor of criminology from the University of Newcastle

So, what are the new and proposed laws and will they really help you? 

Today, the ABC’s National Political Lead, David Speers on the bills passing and failing, as the government ponders a sooner rather than later election. 

Featured: 

David Speers, ABC National Political Lead

It says the face scans were deleted within one second and the tech helped to make stores safer, by identifying thieves or people who’ve been violent. 

But at what cost? The hardware giant has now been found to have breached Australians’ privacy.  

Today, tech reporter Ange Lavoipierre on what Bunnings was up to, how the technology works and whether it’s something to be wary of. 

She says the technology was used in 63 stores across Victoria and New South Wales over a three-year period. 

The Privacy Commissioner, Carly Kind, ruled that Bunnings' actions interfered with the privacy of potentially hundreds of thousands of customers. 

Ange Lavoipierre also discusses the broader implications of such surveillance technologies and the potential for misuse of biometric data.

Featured: 

Ange Lavoipierre, ABC national technology reporter

Key Topics:

• Facial recognition technology
• Privacy breach 
• Retail surveillance
• Privacy Commissioner Carly Kind
• Biometric data misuse
• Retail security 
• Consumer privacy rights
• Surveillance technology

So, why are some women turning away from traditional hospital births and medical intervention? 

Today, investigative reporter Charlotte King on the movement putting lives at risk.

She says free birthing is chosen by some women due to a deep distrust in the medical system and past experiences of birth trauma. 

Charlotte King says the lack of regulation and medical oversight in free birthing can lead to dangerous outcomes, as seen in several cases she investigated. 

She discusses the influence of online communities advocating for free birth and the role of unqualified birth workers in these scenarios. 

The episode underscores the urgent need for better support and informed choices for women in the birthing process.

Featured: 

Charlotte King, ABC Regional Investigations reporter

Key Topics:

• Free birthing
• Birth trauma
• Medical intervention in childbirth
• Women's rights in childbirth
• Maternity care services

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

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

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

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

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 Australia
• Population growth
• Immigration in Australia
• National fertility rate
• Economic impact of population growth
• Climate change and population
• Housing crisis
• Water shortages

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 policy
• Israel annexation West Bank
• Greater Israel
• US-Israel relations
• Middle East peace prospects
• Mike Huckabee ambassador
• Palestinian statehood

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 controversy
• Cultural appropriation in literature
• Sensitivity reading
• Aboriginal representation in media
• Stolen Generations
• Misrepresentation of Indigenous cultures
• Role of sensitivity readers

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 policies
• U.S.-China trade war
• Australian economy
• Inflation and interest rates
• Tariffs 
• High-tech exports
• Trade with China, Japan, and Korea

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 16s
• Youth mental health
• Cyber safety education
• Parenting
• Age verification
• Government policies on social media use

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 Trump
• Robert F. Kennedy Jr
• US Politics
• Donald Trump
• White House

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 victory
• Populist politics in America
• Economic concerns 
• Illegal immigration
• Presidential power

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

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

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

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

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 rates
• House price trends
• Corelogic data
• Housing affordability
• Population growth
• Housing supply and demand
• Sydney and Melbourne housing markets
• Perth housing market 

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 state
• Kamala Harris
• Donald Trump
• 2020 election result challenges
• US election voter sentiment

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 upgrades
• Qantas Chairman’s Lounge
• Political gift-giving
• Conflicts of interest in politics
• Public trust in politicians
• Transparency in government
• Political perks and privileges
• Anti-Corruption measures
• Political culture 

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 Trump
• Kamala Harris
• Fascism
• Political rhetoric
• Fear appeals
• Authoritarianism
• Election campaign strategies
• Adolf Hitler

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 war
• Russia-North Korea alliance
• North Korean military
• Vladimir Putin
• Kim Jong-un
• Russia-China relations
• South Korea

Each release of ChatGPT brings new features, like voice chat, along with updates to the training data fed into the systems, supposed to make them smarter. 

But are more leaps forward a sure thing? Or could the tools actually get dumber?

Today, Aaron Snoswell from the generative AI lab at the Queensland University of Technology discusses the limitations of large language models like ChatGPT. 

He explains why some observers fear ‘model collapse’, where more mistakes creep in as the systems start ‘inbreeding’, or consuming more AI created content than original human created works. 

Aaron Snoswell says these models are essentially pattern matching machines, which can lead to surprising failures. 

He also discusses the massive amounts of data required to train these models and the creative ways companies are sourcing this data. 

The AI expert also touches on the concept of artificial general intelligence and the challenges in achieving it. 

Featured: 

Aaron Snoswell, senior research fellow at the generative AI lab at the Queensland University of Technology

Key Topics:

• Artificial Intelligence
• ChatGPT
• Large Language Models
• Model Collapse
• AI Training Data
• Artificial General Intelligence
• Responsible AI Development
• Generative AI

From playing music instead of taking questions from supporters, to commenting on the genitalia of a dead golfer, and suggesting he’d deploy the military against his ‘enemy within’ the United States. 

But still the polls are neck and neck. 

Today, we talk to Rina Shah, a former Republican strategist, about the race to the finish line.

She speaks about the importance of Pennsylvania in the upcoming election, noting that both campaigns are heavily focused on this key swing state. 

She highlights Trump’s unconventional campaign tactics, including his bizarre town hall meeting in Philadelphia that turned into a music fest. 

Rina Shah also discusses Kamala Harris’s strategy of using Trump’s own words against him in her rallies, which seems to resonate well with voters.

Featured: 

Rina Shah, political strategist, former senior Republican congressional aide and a former presidential campaign adviser

Key Topics:

• Donald Trump campaign tactics
• Pennsylvania swing state
• Kamala Harris campaign strategy
• Early voting trends
• Trump’s town hall meeting
• Election 2024 polls
• Abortion policy
• Trump’s comments on Arnold Palmer

Now, the prospect of repealing those laws has become a major issue ahead of this weekend’s state election.

In South Australia too, the legality of abortion has been contested in the parliament. 

So, why is abortion up for debate? 

Today, Prudence Flowers from Flinders University on why what’s happening here can be linked to the United States.  

Dr Flowers explains that the overturning of Roe v Wade in the US has sent shock waves globally, influencing debates in Australia. 

She says the political landscape in Queensland is particularly volatile, with independent MP Robbie Katter pushing for a repeal of the decriminalisation law. 

She notes the significant anti-abortion sentiment within the Liberal National Party, which could impact the outcome if they win the election. 

In South Australia, recent legislative attempts to restrict abortion have narrowly failed, reflecting the contentious nature of the issue. 

Featured: 

Dr Prudence Flowers, senior lecturer at Flinders University

Key Topics:

• Queensland abortion laws
• South Australia abortion debate
• Roe v Wade
• Robbie Katter
• Liberal National Party and abortion
• US influence on Australian politics
• Reproductive rights
• Political strategies in elections
• Abortion laws

Elon Musk, the richest man in the world, is throwing it around for Donald Trump, even offering million-dollar cheques to voters who sign a petition set up by a Trump-friendly campaign group. 

Today, Vittoria Elliot from WIRED on why Musk is so desperate for Trump to win. 

Vittoria Elliot explains Musk’s shift from supporting Democrats to backing Trump, driven by business interests and regulatory concerns. 

She highlights Musk’s significant influence on social media, particularly through X, where he amplifies right-wing talking points. 

Elliot also discusses the legal grey areas of Musk’s financial incentives for voters and the potential implications for future elections.

Featured: 

Vittoria Elliot, WIRED reporter covering platforms and power

Key Topics:

• Elon Musk
• Donald Trump
• US Election 2024
• Early Voting
• Political Action Committees (PACs)
• Social Media 
• Misinformation
• Free Speech

Instead, Israeli airstrikes have intensified in the north and there is no sign Hamas will agree to the return of hostages. 

Today, international relations expert Rajan Menon on what Benjamin Netanyahu hopes to achieve. 

Professor Menon says that despite Sinwar’s death, Hamas remains resilient and continues to pose a threat. 

He says the international community is closely watching the situation, with significant political and humanitarian concerns.

Featured: 

Rajan Menon, professor emeritus of international relations at the City College of New York 

Key Topics:

• Yahya Sinwar assassination
• Israeli airstrikes in Gaza
• Hamas leadership
• Benjamin Netanyahu’s strategy
• Ceasefire prospects
• Hostage negotiations
• Gaza conflict 
• Humanitarian impact

Transurban is the firm that dominates the industry on the east coast and in some states they can even use the criminal justice system to chase toll debts and fines. 

The cost of toll roads is prohibitive for many drivers, forcing people to quit jobs across town and pushing truck drivers to use suburban roads instead. 

Today, Four Corners reporter Pat McGrath on his investigation into the contracts that governments sign to get nice new toll roads.

He reveals how many contracts allow toll price increases pegged to the consumer price index or at least four per cent, leading to significant revenue for companies like Transurban. 

He explores potential reforms and the need for government intervention to address these issues.

Featured: 

Pat McGrath, Four Corners reporter

Key Topics:

• Toll roads
• Transurban
• Consumer price index
• Toll debt enforcement
• Government contracts with toll companies
• Toll road reforms
• Cost of living crisis
• Traffic congestion

He’s bought a multi-million-dollar house, featuring sweeping ocean views, on the New South Wales central coast.

Some people think it’s a move from the PM that’s especially tone deaf, given the depths of the housing crisis, while others see the story as a complete beat up.

Today, host of Radio National Breakfast and The Party Room podcast, Patricia Karvelas, on why it has become a big problem for the PM. 

Patricia Karvelas explains that the timing of the purchase is problematic, given the current housing crisis and the upcoming election. 

She says there are concerns about the optics of this purchase, even within the Labor Party. 

The episode delves into the public’s reaction and the media’s role in amplifying the controversy.

Featured: 

Patricia Karvelas, host of Radio National Breakfast and The Party Room podcast 

Key Topics:

• Anthony Albanese 
• Property market 
• Housing crisis
• Federal politics
• Labor Party
• Media coverage
• 2025 Federal Election 
• Political leadership

The men, part of a white supremacist group, were not from the area. So, why were they there?

Today, extremism researcher Kaz Ross discusses how we should respond to the growing white supremacist movement in Australia. 

Kaz Ross explains that the neo-Nazi group, the National Socialist Network, aims to intimidate and gain publicity through such rallies. 

She says the group’s tactics include the use of provocative banners and chants to incite fear and media attention. 

She warns that the movement is growing and poses a significant threat to social cohesion.

Featured: 

Dr Kaz Ross, independent researcher into far-right extremism

Key Topics:

• Neo-Nazi rally 
• National Socialist Network
• White supremacists 
• Far-right extremism
• Social cohesion and safety threats
• Legislative responses to neo-Nazis

The sound of Israeli drones is constant as its forces hunt members of Hezbollah. 

The militant group has been firing missiles into Israel since Hamas terrorists crossed from Gaza into Israel last year. 

Today, we go to Beirut with the ABC’s global affairs editor John Lyons who explains why some Lebanese welcome the weakening of Hezbollah.

Featured: 

John Lyons, ABC Global Affairs Editor 

Key Topics:

• Beirut conflict
• Israeli air strikes
• Hezbollah
• Lebanese civilians
• Israeli drones
• Middle East war
• Lebanese army
• Civilian deaths
• Political divisions in Lebanon

More than a hundred thousand eligible voters are living here in Australia, although not all will cast a ballot. 

Today, we meet an Australian-based Harris voter and a Trump voter, to talk about what’s driving their decision and what sort of America they hope will come from it.  

We also discuss whether people with wildly different political views can get along. 

Judy Grobstein supports Kamala Harris due to her stance on issues including women’s rights, gun laws and LGBTQ rights. 

She's concerned about the roll back of women’s freedoms and the handling of immigration by the Republicans. 

Susan Shaffer, despite her personal dislike for Donald Trump, supports him due to her concerns about the economy, immigration, and US involvement in the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. 

She highlights the perceived failures of the current administration on the economy and border control. 

Featured: 

Judy Grobstein, Harris voter

Susan Shaffer, Trump voter

Key Topics:

• U.S. Presidential Election 2024
• Kamala Harris
• Donald Trump
• American voters in Australia
• Women’s rights
• Gun control 
• Immigration policy
• US economy
• Political divisions in America

So, what goes on behind the scenes with the big ticketing companies that control our live music scene? 

Today, Avani Dias on her Four Corners investigation into dynamic pricing and how Australian artists are allegedly being ripped off.

Avani Dias reveals that while dynamic pricing won't be used for Oasis tickets in Australia, Ticketmaster is under scrutiny for its use in the United Kingdom, which caused ticket prices to surge unexpectedly. 

She explains how Live Nation, the owner of Ticketmaster, has a business model that involves buying up smaller live music businesses, including venues and merchandise sellers, giving it significant control over the industry. 

Avani discusses the impact on Australian artists, who often see a small fraction of the revenue from their performances due to various fees imposed by Live Nation. 

She highlights concerns from industry insiders, including Peter Garrett, about the lack of regulation and the potential exploitation of artists. 

Avani also touches on the broader implications for the future of live music in Australia.

Featured: 

Avani Dias, Four Corners reporter

Key Topics:

• Oasis tour
• Dynamic ticket pricing
• Live Nation 
• Live music
• Ticketmaster 
• Music industry regulation
• Grassroots music 
• Artist revenue 

So, with the polls showing a close race both at the national level and in the swing states that will determine the next president, can we trust them? 

Today, Matt Taglia from Emerson College Polling explains the science of polling.  

He discusses the accuracy of current polling methods and how they have evolved since 2016. 

Matt Taglia addresses the challenges pollsters face in reaching a representative sample of voters, especially in swing states. 

Featured: 

Matt Taglia, senior director at Emerson College Polling

Key Topics:

• 2016 US Election Polling 
• Polling Accuracy
• Margin of Error
• Polling Methodology
• Swing State Polling
• Key US Election 2024 Issues
• 'Shy' Trump Voter Effect
• Polling Trends and Predictions

The rapper has been arrested, accused of sex trafficking and running a criminal enterprise centred on abusing women. 

Today, what we know about the case and whether it will change the global music industry.

Music journalist and co-founder of The Brag Media, Poppy Reid, discusses the potential impact of these allegations on Hollywood and the broader entertainment industry. 

She explains the background of the charges, including the lawsuit filed by Diddy’s former girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, and the subsequent raids on his properties.

Poppy Reid says the indictment details graphic allegations of abuse and coercion spanning over a decade. 

She believes this case could trigger a significant MeToo movement within the music industry, similar to what happened in the film industry with Harvey Weinstein.

Featured: 

Poppy Reid, music journalist and co-founder of The Brag Media

Key Topics:

• Sean Combs
• Diddy
• Sex trafficking charges
• MeToo movement
• Cassie Ventura 
• Music industry 
• Entertainment industry

Last week it closed its last remaining coal fired power station earlier than expected and became the first G7 economy to dump coal power. 

Today, energy expert from the Grattan Institute Alison Reeve on how the Brits did it and when we’ll do the same. 

She explains the historical significance of coal in the UK’s industrial revolution and its eventual decline. 

Alison Reeve highlights the role of bipartisan politics and strategic policies in achieving this milestone. 

Featured:

Alison Reeve, Energy and Climate Change Deputy Program Director at Grattan Institute

Key Topics:

• UK electricity grid
• Coal-fired power stations
• Renewable energy transition
• Politics in energy policy
• Role of nuclear energy in the UK
• Australia’s coal power phase-out

But in the United States, the Biden administration wants to ban all Chinese developed software from cars on American roads because of security concerns. 

The US government already charges a big tariff on imports of Chinese EVs. 

Today, Adam Tong from the Center for a New American Security on whether the cyber security risk cited by US officials is really something to be concerned about. 

Mr. Tong explains that the interconnected nature of modern EVs increases their vulnerability to cyber attacks. 

He highlights that malware could potentially be embedded in the software deeply embedded in the vehicles, posing risks to both personal data and physical safety. 

Mr. Tong notes that while no major attacks have occurred yet, the proactive measures by the US aim to prevent future threats. 

He also discusses the economic implications of the ban, suggesting it also serves to protect the US EV industry from Chinese competition.

Featured: 

Adam Tong, associate fellow at the Center for a New American Security 

Key Topics:

• Electric vehicles
• Chinese EVs
• Cybersecurity risks
• Biden administration 
• US-China trade relations
• EV industry 
• Tariffs on Chinese imports
• National security concerns

As a Jewish woman and editor in chief of The Jewish Independent news website, finding a balance in the reporting was what she strove for now and then. 

It’s been a challenge, as Jewish Australians reflect on the bloodiest single day in Israel’s history and the death toll from the controversial military response grows. 

Today, Deborah Stone shares her reflections on the past year and whether vastly different views on what’s happened since can be reconciled. 

She highlights the increased anti-Semitism faced by Jewish Australians and the impact on their sense of safety. 

Deborah Stone also shares a powerful story from a young woman with both Jewish and Arabic heritage, illustrating the possibility of caring for both communities.

Featured: 

Deborah Stone, editor in chief of The Jewish Independent

Key Topics:

• Hamas terrorist attack
• Israel’s military response
• Jewish Australian diaspora
• Zionism
• Anti-Semitism in Australia
• Israeli and Palestinian rights
• Multiculturalism

Michigan is one of them and campaigners for the Democratic and Republican parties are going door-to-door to try and convince people their candidate would make the best president for them. 

President Joe Biden won the state by 154,000 votes in the last election, following Donald Trump’s slim win by 10,000 votes in 2016. 

Today, Foreign Correspondent reporter Stephanie March explains what makes voters there tick and why some are leaning towards Trump, even if they don’t like him. 

She hits the streets with supporters of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, listening to the arguments that might sway crucial votes. 

Stephanie March highlights the Republicans’ efforts to win over African-American voters, leveraging figures like Kwame Kilpatrick, a former Democrat and convicted criminal whose sentence was commuted by Trump. 

She also explores the Democrats’ challenges in retaining support from traditionally loyal groups, such as the Arab-American community in Dearborn, due to tensions over continued support for Israel. 

March provides insights into the grassroots campaign strategies, including the Republicans’ unconventional approach of knocking on every door regardless of political affiliation. 

Featured: 

Stephanie March, Foreign Correspondent reporter

Key Topics:

• US presidential election 2024
• Michigan swing state
• Joe Biden 2020 election
• Donald Trump 2016 election
• Kwame Kilpatrick
• African-American voters
• Arab-American voters
• Grassroots campaign strategies
• Kamala Harris

It follows Israel’s assassination of the leader of the Iranian-linked Hezbollah group in Lebanon and Israeli troops crossing the border with Lebanon in ground raids. 

So, what happens next and is there a way to avoid more bloodshed?

Today, Hussein Ibish from the Arab Gulf States Institute explains why Israel might be stepping up strikes against Hezbollah now and why Iran might be holding back in its response. 

Dr Ibish discusses the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and Lebanon, emphasising the dire conditions and displacement of millions. 

He points out that Iran’s missile strikes may be more about domestic politics than actual military strategy. 

Featured: 

Hussein Ibish, senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute 

Key Topics:

• Middle East war
• Iran-Israel tensions
• Hezbollah
• Gaza humanitarian crisis
• Lebanon displacement
• Israeli ground raids
• October 7 terrorist attack
• Benjamin Netanyahu

But an ABC investigation has found that contract clauses and particularly exit fees can lead to much of a resident’s life savings being lost.

Today, reporter Adele Ferguson on how families are being gouged and why you shouldn’t fall for the glossy brochures. 

She shares the heartbreaking stories of Joan Green and Lynette Anderson, who lost significant portions of their savings due to exorbitant exit and refurbishment fees. 

Adele Ferguson says there's a the lack of regulation and oversight in the retirement village sector, suggesting a need for stronger consumer protections and clearer contracts.

Featured: 

Adele Ferguson, ABC investigative reporter 

Key Topics:

• Retirement village exit fees
• Hidden costs in retirement villages
• Retirement village contracts
• Consumer protection
• Regulation of retirement villages
• Retirement village refurbishment fees

Many were already sceptical of the Prices Dropped and Down Down specials. 

But is action from the competition watchdog and politicians really going to reduce our grocery bills? 

Today, ABC commentator and presenter Annabel Crabb on the politics of doing the groceries. 

Annabel Crabb highlights how the ACCC’s legal action against Coles and Woolworths could set a precedent for future retail practices. 

Featured: 

Annabel Crabb, ABC writer and presenter

Key Topics:

• Coles and Woolworths discounts
• ACCC legal action
• Consumer protection
• Discounts
• Supermarket codes of conduct
• Cost of living crisis
• Retail practices
• Grocery bills

Its boss is tight-lipped about where it will fly and when. But if it gets into the air, can it really succeed in taking on the big players Qantas and Virgin when so many others have failed, most recently Rex.  

Today, Emily Baker on her Four Corners investigation into why Rex couldn’t compete. 

Emily Baker explains that Koala Airlines aims to provide a different product or service, similar to how Aldi and IGA operate alongside Coles and Woolworths. 

She highlights that the Australian domestic market is dominated by a duopoly of Qantas and Virgin, making it challenging for new entrants. 

Emily discusses how Rex’s attempt to enter the jet market and compete on the Golden Triangle routes ultimately led to its downfall. 

She also notes that Qantas and Virgin’s aggressive competitive strategies played a significant role in Rex’s failure. 

Emily says there's evidence that a third airline would push down airfares, and one way to achieve that would be to force Qantas to sell off Jetstar. 

Featured: 

Emily Baker, Four Corners reporter

Key Topics:

• Koala Airlines
• Australian aviation market
• Qantas and Virgin duopoly
• Rex Airlines failure
• Golden Triangle routes
• Airline competition
• Airfare prices
• Bill Astling
• Lim Kim Hai
• John Sharp

But while they’re disengaged, and often confused, it’s these undecided voters who could swing the result.

Today, we look at who they are and what they’re saying with Margaret Talev, Axios contributor and director of Syracuse University’s Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship.  

Margaret Talev explains that undecided voters are crucial in swing states, where even a small percentage can determine the outcome. 

She highlights that while the economy is the top issue for these voters, reproductive rights are a significant concern, especially among women. 

She emphasises the challenge of engaging these voters, who are generally disengaged from regular political news consumption. 

Both candidates are using populist messages and scare tactics to win over these undecided voters.

Featured: 

Margaret Talev, senior contributor with the news site Axios and director of Syracuse University’s Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship

Key Topics:

• Undecided voters
• Swing states
• Economic issues
• Inflation and wages
• Reproductive rights
• Illegal migration
• 2024 US Presidential Election

One factor the RBA is looking at is the unemployment rate which might need to rise before it acts.  

Today, chief business correspondent Ian Verrender on the old economic theory linking unemployment and inflation and his prediction on when interest rates will start to fall.

Ian Verrender highlights the delay in the impact of interest rate changes, likening it to adjusting a shower’s temperature. 

He discusses the Phillips Curve theory and its relevance to current economic conditions.

Verrender predicts a possible rate cut before Christmas, emphasising the delicate balance the RBA must maintain.

Featured: 

Ian Verrender, ABC Chief Business Correspondent

Key Topics:

• Inflation rates
• Interest rates
• Unemployment rate
• Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)
• Phillips Curve theory
• Central bank policies
• Michele Bullock
• Australian economy

So, as its fight against Hezbollah intensifies could it go further by sending in ground troops? 

Today, Dov Waxman, a professor of Israel Studies at the University of California on Israel’s goals and what might come next.  

Professor Waxman explains that the recent escalation is a significant shift in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. 

This low-intensity war has been ongoing since October 8th, following the Hamas-led attack in southern Israel. 

Waxman notes that Hezbollah’s actions are in solidarity with Hamas, as part of the Iran-backed axis of resistance. 

He says Israel’s goal is not to destroy Hezbollah but to push its forces away from the border.

The professor also warns of the potential for this conflict to escalate into a regional war.

Featured: 

Dov Waxman, Professor of Israel Studies at the University of California and the chair of the Nazarian Centre for Israel Studies

Key Topics:

• Israel air strikes
• Hezbollah conflict
• Southern Lebanon
• Axis of resistance
• Iran
• Middle East war

Even if you never need it, getting it wrong matters for women’s rights and the economy. 

Today, we look at how we got it so wrong, the money being made and the ideas to try and fix it. 

We speak with a mother who’s struggled to get enough care for her children and hear how it’s set back her plans to return to work as a teacher. 

Alexandra Dockrill shares the financial and professional setbacks she faces due to the childcare crisis.

A childcare expert explains why recent recommendations to the government fall short of the overhaul that the system needs. 

Professor Elizabeth Hill discusses the impact of privatisation on the sector and the challenges of implementing universal childcare. 

Featured: 

Alexandra Dockrill, NSW mother of two

Elizabeth Hill, professor in the Department of Political Economy at the University of Sydney

Key Topics:

• Childcare costs in Australia
• Childcare availability
• Women’s rights and childcare
• Privatisation of childcare
• Universal childcare
• Childcare subsidies
• Early childhood education
• Gender equality in the workforce

“I’ve lost all the money,” he said. 

It was the start of a fight led by his son David against the banks that had allowed about $1 million to leave his father’s accounts. 

It was an ordeal that lasted for five years, as a bank tried to deny it had been given a warning about the scammers before the money was taken. 

In the end, David Sweeney’s family got all the cash reimbursed, but the battle had taken its toll. 

Now, the Government has drafted legislation to address the rise in scamming, but it’s stopped short of forcing the banks to repay the victims. 

A reimbursement scheme is already in place in the United Kingdom, and today, investigative reporter Adele Ferguson explains how it’s working there to protect people’s savings. 

Featured: 

Adele Ferguson, ABC investigative reporter

Key Topics:

• Online scams
• Banking system
• Scam prevention legislation
• Consumer protection
• Financial fraud
• Option FM scam

Bomb threats have shut down schools and Haitian migrants feel intimidated in their adopted home. 

So, what’s life really like there for long term residents and the thousands of migrants who breathed new life into Springfield, while also straining services including health and education?

Today, Associated Press reporter Julie Carr Smyth takes us to Springfield, a city that’s been rocked by a lie. 

She explains that the bomb threats seem to have come from overseas, possibly involving forces that want to foment discord in the community.

Julie Carr Smyth says the local police are stretched to their limits, requiring additional state troopers to maintain order. 

She speaks about the challenges facing the city, with up to 20,000 Haitian migrants settling there in recent years, now making up about a quarter of the population. 

Featured: 

Julie Carr Smyth, Associated Press reporter based in Columbus, Ohio

Key Topics:

• Donald Trump false claims
• Springfield bomb threats
• Haitian migrants in Ohio
• Community impact of misinformation
• Police response
• Social services strain
• Public safety 
• Political rhetoric 

It was a deadly attack, a young girl is among the dead and almost three thousand others are injured. 

Israel is being blamed, although it hasn't admitted its role. 

Today, intelligence expert John Blaxland on the sophisticated strike that’s embarrassed and rattled Hezbollah.  

Professor Blaxland says the attack is unprecedented in its coordination and technological sophistication. 

He highlights that the pagers were likely tampered with along the supply chain, possibly with military-grade explosives. 

The attack’s timing suggests it could be a pre-emptive move against a potential Hezbollah offensive, he says.

Professor Blaxland also notes the significant embarrassment and operational disruption this causes for Hezbollah, potentially affecting their future actions. 

Featured: 

John Blaxland, Director of the ANU North America Liaison Office and Professor of International Security and Intelligence Studies

Key Topics:

• Hezbollah
• Israel
• Lebanon
• Explosives
• Intelligence operations
• Middle East conflict
• Mossad
• Technological espionage

It’s a first for a social media giant as concern grows about the harmful content children are exposed to online. 

The announcement comes as the federal government works on an outright ban of social media for children. 

The precise age limit is still to be settled, South Australia thinks under-14 is appropriate, but any ban is likely to require some form of age verification. 

Today, tech reporter Ange Lavoipierre on what all of us might have to give up to prove our age.

Ange discusses the implications of the Instagram changes, highlighting the automatic privacy settings for teen accounts and the introduction of a “sleep mode” to limit screen time.

Featured: 

Ange Lavoipierre, ABC national technology reporter

Key Topics:

• Instagram teen accounts
• Social media age verification
• Online safety for teenagers
• AI tools for age detection
• Privacy concerns in social media
• Albanese government social media ban
• Screen time limits
• Parental controls on social media
• Harmful online content
• Social media regulations for children

A Secret Service agent opened fire on a gunman after seeing a rifle barrel poking through a fence while the former president was nearby.

What does the incident say about the former president’s security and will it win him any more votes? 

Today, Emma Shortis, a US politics expert at the Australia Institute on the threat of political violence in the US. 

She highlights the volatile nature of the current US political climate, emphasising the increasing frequency of political violence.

Featured: 

Dr Emma Shortis, senior researcher in international and security affairs at the Australia Institute

Key Topics:

• Donald Trump assassination attempt
• Political violence in the US
• Secret Service security measures
• US presidential campaign security
• Gun control debate in America
• Political rhetoric
• US election 2024
• Security protocols for political figures

The polls are tight, but even if Kamala Harris wins more votes overall than Donald Trump, she could still lose the election given the complicated electoral college system. 

It’s happened before, when Hillary Clinton won the support of millions of more Americans than Trump in 2016, but he went on to become president. 

The electoral college is the reason that on election night we’re all watching to see how individual US states vote and which candidate for president reaches 270. 

Today, ABC News Breakfast co-host and correspondent Michael Rowland explains how it works. 

He also offers his prediction on who will win the US election. 

Correction: The US constitution is not changed via a referendum. Any amendment would require the support of two thirds of both Houses of Congress, or be requested by two-thirds of the states. In either case, it would then need to be ratified by a large majority of states. 

Featured: 

Michael Rowland, ABC News Breakfast co-host and correspondent

Key Topics:

• US election 2024
• Electoral college system
• Swing states
• Kamala Harris
• Donald Trump
• Presidential debate
• Pennsylvania
• US politics

It’s a real-life succession drama, as Rupert Murdoch seeks to ensure his son Lachlan has full control of the editorial policy of the businesses once he dies. 

To do that, he’s got to beat three of his other children in court and he’s reportedly arguing that making the change is in good faith and would prevent power struggles resulting from the lack of consensus between the children. 

Today, journalist Paddy Manning, author of Successor, the first unauthorised biography of Lachlan Murdoch, and producer of a three-part Australian Story series Making Lachlan Murdoch on why he’s the chosen one.  

Paddy Manning explains that the family trust, established in 1999, is central to the dispute, as it grants equal voting rights to Rupert’s four children. 

He's been looking at Lachlan’s conservative views and his close relationship with his father, which contrasts with his siblings’ perspectives.

He tells Sam Hawley that the outcome of this court case could impact the editorial direction of major media outlets like Fox News. 

Featured:

Paddy Manning, journalist

Key Topics:

• Murdoch family court case
• Rupert Murdoch
• Lachlan Murdoch
• Media empire succession
• Family trust dispute
• Fox News editorial policy
• Conservative media

From claims of migrants eating pet dogs to fear raising about Democrats wanting to ‘execute’ babies, Donald Trump was repeatedly corrected by the moderators. 

Kamala Harris spoke about her background, directly addressed her opponent and insisted she had a plan for the future. 

At the end of it, pop superstar Taylor Swift came out in support of Kamala Harris. 

Today, Kim Hoggard, a former US government official who worked in the Reagan and George H W Bush administrations, highlights how Kamala Harris blended personal anecdotes with policy discussions. 

She notes that Harris’s ability to push Trump’s buttons led to his increasingly extreme statements.

She believes this debate could be pivotal for the election result and says Harris’s performance may have exceeded Democratic party expectations. 

Featured: 

Kim Hoggard, former US government official in Reagan and Bush administrations

Key Topics:

• US presidential debate
• Kamala Harris
• Donald Trump
• Taylor Swift endorsement
• Migrant crime claims
• Abortion debate
• Real-time fact-checking

But with the generational divide in home ownership becoming more pronounced, voters are shifting their views.

Today, host of Q+A and The Party Room podcast Patricia Karvelas on whether governments will finally be forced to scrap negative gearing. 

Featured: 

Patricia Karvelas, host of RN Breakfast, Q+A and The Party Room

But in 2019 he took his own life. He’d been medically discharged from the ADF before his death. 

Ever since, his mother, Julie-Ann has been fighting to hold to account a defence force she says could and should have done so much more to save his life.

Now after three years, a Royal Commission into the deaths by suicide of thousands of current and former members of the military has handed down its report, which in part delivers a scathing assessment of defence leadership. 

Today we speak to Julie-Ann Finney about her son’s death and her hope for change. 

Julie-Ann Finney shares her journey, highlighting the trauma and grief experienced by families of veterans. 

She emphasises the need for accountability and systemic change within the Defence Force. 

Julie-Ann also discusses the importance of independent oversight in implementing the Royal Commission’s recommendations. 

Featured: 

Julie-Ann Finney, mother of David Finney

Key Topics:

• Mental health
• Australian Navy
• Military suicide
• Royal Commission
• Defence leadership
• Veteran advocacy

Being part of a strata scheme is part and parcel of owning an apartment, but many owners are not taking an active interest in how the blocks are being managed. 

A Four Corners investigation has revealed a rot at the heart of the strata management industry that’s draining the funds of owners. 

Today, investigative reporter Linton Besser shares stories of greed in many of Australia’s strata firms and explains why it’s worth owners’ time and effort to scrutinise how their money is being spent. 

He highlights the systemic issues within strata management, including phantom fees and mismanagement of funds. 

The investigation uncovers shocking stories of financial exploitation and neglect, raising the need for stricter regulations and oversight.

Featured:

Linton Besser, Four Corners reporter

Key Topics:

• Strata management
• Apartment living
• Housing density
• Financial exploitation
• Strata committees
• Phantom fees
• Owners corporation
• Strata regulations

The draft management plan focuses mainly on feral felines, but domestic cats, let out of the house to roam are also recognised as a problem.

In some council areas, felines would be forced to be securely enclosed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Today, Sarah Legge, a leading researcher in the field who’s worked with the federal government on its plan, discusses the issue. 

She highlights the severe impact cats have on native wildlife, with more than 200 threatened species affected. 

Professor Legge also explains the proposed measures, including constant containment for pet cats and the creation of cat-free suburbs. 

She emphasises the importance of balancing cat ownership with wildlife conservation and suggests practical solutions for cat owners to minimise their pets’ impact on the environment.

Featured:

Sarah Legge, wildlife ecologist and professor at Charles Darwin University

Key Topics:

• Feral cats
• Pet cat management
• Wildlife conservation
• Biodiversity protection
• Environmental impact of cats

So why is Netanyahu not willing to do another deal with Hamas and can he survive growing anger and protests at home? 

Today, Dr Eyal Mayroz, an expert on peace and conflict studies at Sydney University on the fate of more than one hundred hostages still unaccounted-for.

Dr. Mayroz discusses the unprecedented scale of protests in Israel, highlighting the public’s shift from hopelessness to outrage. 

He explains how Netanyahu’s political survival is influencing his decisions, particularly his reluctance to make concessions. 

Dr. Mayroz also emphasises the critical role of international pressure, especially from the United States, in potentially resolving the crisis. 

He notes the devastating impact on the families of hostages and the broader humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Featured: 

Dr Eyal Mayroz, Senior Lecturer in Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Sydney

Key Topics:

• Netanyahu ceasefire negotiations
• Hostages in Gaza
• Israeli protests
• Hamas demands
• U.S. pressure on Israel
• Humanitarian crisis in Gaza
• Netanyahu’s political survival
• International response to Gaza conflict
• Israeli public opinion

So, as the world becomes more concerned about the dangers of social media - have we finally reached a turning point on big tech - or is this merely a crackdown on free speech? 

Today, Professor of Communications and Media Studies at Monash University, Mark Andrejevic on why governments are finally holding tech billionaires to account.

A parliamentary committee is pushing for a full ban on advertising to protect younger generations from the dangers of gambling, but there are indications the government will stop short of that. 

Today, investigative journalist and occasional Radio National Breakfast host Steve Cannane on the arguments being made by the powerful gambling industry in its lobbying against a full ban. 

Featured: 

Steve Cannane, ABC investigative journalist

It comes after widespread backlash from consumer groups and calls for more competition against Qantas and Virgin airlines, which currently dominate the domestic market.

Today, ABC investigative reporter Adele Ferguson on the new rights for travellers and if the industry shake-up goes far enough.

Featured: 

Adele Ferguson, ABC Investigative reporter

As part of his campaign, the former president has repeatedly accused the Democrats of cheating, and begun sowing the seeds of doubt about the integrity of the election.

Today, Geoff Kabaservice from the Niskanen Centre in Washington DC on the election deniers who will refuse to accept a Trump loss. 

Featured: 

Geoffrey Kabaservice, director of political studies, Niskanen Centre, Washington DC.

With fierce competition for housing pushing up rents in our major cities, could the caps also ease key cost of living pressures? 

Today, the ABC’s chief business correspondent, Ian Verrender, on why a ‘tragedy’ for unis reliant on foreign student fees might lead to less economic pain across the board.

Featured: 

Ian Verrender, ABC chief business correspondent

Australian billionaire Mike Cannon-Brookes is backing the Sun Cable project that would send electricity to Darwin and beyond to Singapore, via an undersea cable. 

Today, Giles Parkinson from RenewEconomy.com.au on when it might be up and running. 

Featured: 

Giles Parkinson, founder and editor of RenewEconomy.com.au

Given Hezbollah’s ties to Iran, the ongoing war in Gaza and the recent assassination of a Hamas leader in Tehran, the world remains braced for a much larger conflict. 

The ABC’s global affairs editor John Lyons has toured the region for the Four Corners program, getting rare access inside Iran. 

Today, he explains Iran’s ‘Axis of Resistance’ and explores what could happen next. 

Featured: 

John Lyons, ABC Global Affairs Editor

But do we have electricity infrastructure that can cope with the demand?

Owners will often want to charge at peak times in the early evening, but that convenience could stress the power grid to breaking point and require expensive upgrades to electricity generation and distribution. 

Today, energy reporter Dan Mercer on the solutions to spread out the demand or even draw power from car batteries to stabilise the grid. 

Featured: 

Dan Mercer, ABC energy reporter

With the right prompt and training, artificial intelligence tools can even be used to produce cheap new songs that almost sound like they’re from your favourite artist. 

AI has some of Australia’s biggest artists worried and a study from the industry suggests nearly a quarter of their revenue is at risk.

Today, singer, songwriter Ben Lee joins Sam Hawley with his take on AI music and the future of human creativity. 

Featured: 

Ben Lee, musician

Their mission was meant to take eight days, but might last into next year because the Boeing spacecraft they were testing has experienced some technical difficulties. 

Today, space expert Rebecca Allen on how NASA plans to get them back to Earth.  

Featured: 

Dr Rebecca Allen, Co-Director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute at Swinburne University of Technology

In part it’s turned into a row over what is and isn’t racist. 

Opposition Leader Peter Dutton says we need a ban because of a security risk posed by people from that war zone. 

But with 1300 people having already managed to reach Australia and others being granted permission to come, is there really any danger? 

Today, the ABC’s Patricia Karvelas discusses the policy and the politics.

Featured: 

Patricia Karvelas, host of Radio National Breakfast and the Party Room podcast 

It’s the first major foreign incursion there since World War II and a deep embarrassment for Russian president Vladimir Putin. 

Today, Rajan Menon, an international relations expert from The City College of New York on whether Ukraine’s major shift in tactics will pay off. 

Featured: 

Rajan Menon, international relations professor at The City College of New York

It’s just too politically difficult to do anything that would improve the affordability of buying a home. 

The situation bolsters the case for strengthening renters’ rights, ensuring longer leases with more checks on the power of landlords.

Today, ABC finance expert Alan Kohler shares his ideas on how to save renters. 

Featured: 

Alan Kohler, ABC finance presenter

But new polling shows she is gaining significant ground against Donald Trump. 

Today, Molly Ball, senior political correspondent for the Wall Street Journal, on the re-energised Democratic campaign and how Trump’s struggling to keep things on track. 

Featured: 

Molly Ball, senior political correspondent for the Wall Street Journal

She’s being sued for defamation by her former boss and once defence minister Linda Reynolds. 

Today, author and co-host of the Not Stupid podcast, Julia Baird,on the huge financial and emotional cost the case brings for both women.

Featured: 

Julia Baird, co-host of Not Stupid podcast

But do we really need the Americans to protect us? The former Prime Minister Paul Keating doesn’t think so. 

He insists we can defend ourselves and he wants us to tear up the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal. 

Paul Keating also dismisses Taiwan as ‘Chinese real estate’, a characterisation that veteran US politician, house speaker Nancy Pelosi describes as a ‘stupid statement’. 

Today, Richard McGregor from the Lowy Institute on what walking away from the US would mean for our security. 

Featured: 

Richard McGregor, senior fellow for East Asia at the Lowy Institute

Today, Louise Milligan discusses her Four Corners investigation and why a newsroom’s culture matters to us all. 

Featured: 

Louise Milligan, Four Corners reporter

The search engine’s ubiquity has earned Google billions and billions of dollars, but now a US judge has ruled that Google became a monopoly illegally. 

How you search the internet might change as a result, with the forced break-up of the firm one of the options on the table to ensure more competition in the market. 

So, how did Google rise to the top and stay there? 

Today, we dissect the biggest tech competition ruling in decades with Leah Nylen, Bloomberg’s anti-trust reporter. 

Featured: 

Leah Nylen, Bloomberg anti-trust reporter

There are jitters about the true value of surging stocks on Wall Street, the risk of a recession in the United States and interest rate rises in Japan. 

Today, the ABC’s chief business correspondent Ian Verrender explains what’s going on and what it means for us and the future of interest rates. 

Featured: 

Ian Verrender, ABC chief business correspondent

The 60-year-old Governor of Minnesota has already gone viral for calling Donald Trump ‘weird’, but will he secure Harris victory in November’s US election? 

Today, political scientist Andra Gillespie on why Harris picked the former school teacher and the swing voters that might be tempted to back the pair. 

Featured: 

Andra Gillespie, associate professor of political science at Emory University

It got a handful of big jet aircraft and started to take on the established players, Qantas and Virgin. 

But after just three and a half years, those routes have been scrapped and the airline is in administration. 

So, what went wrong? 

Today, aviation expert Ian Douglas on Rex’s downfall and whether Australia could ever support more than two major airlines. 

Featured: 

Ian Douglas, senior lecturer at UNSW Sydney’s School of Aviation

The top spy body says a terrorist attack in Australia is now probable, up from possible. 

More people holding extreme ideologies are leading to a ‘volatile and unpredictable’ security situation. 

Today, we discuss what’s going on and how we should react, with counter-terrorism expert Lydia Khalil from the Lowy Institute. 

Featured: 

Lydia Khalill, program director of transnational challenges at the Lowy Institute

Melbourne woman Claudia had that inkling in Barcelona recently when locals made it clear they wanted her to go home. 

Today, we look at the growing anger in some of the most popular tourist cities and what is being done to try to ease the pressure. 

Featured: 

Claudia, Australian tourist

Sebastian Zenker, professor in tourism at the Copenhagen Business School

The sexism is also remarkable in 2024 with Trump labelling Harris a ‘play toy’ for world leaders. 

This, after 2021 comments surfaced from JD Vance, where Trump’s pick for vice president derided Democratic Party leaders like Kamala Harris as ‘childless cat ladies’. 

Remember when we had our own female leader who complained of sexism and misogyny in politics?

Today, we discuss it all with ABC commentator and presenter, Annabel Crabb. 

Featured: 

Annabel Crabb, ABC writer and presenter

While price rises are not nearly as bad as they were a year or two ago, the main measure of annual inflation has ticked up again. 

It’s key information to help the Reserve Bank board decide what to do about interest rates when it meets next week. 

Despite inflation being ‘sticky’, it’s a long way off its peak. So, is the result good enough for rates to remain on hold?

Today, economist Cassandra Winzar with her verdict on rates and a forecast on when things will start getting easier. 

Featured: 

Cassandra Winzar, chief economist, Committee for Economic Development of Australia 

If you believe the polls, it’s a problem for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, given an election is due within a year. 

Voter confidence has taken a dive and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is making ground on his opponent. 

Today, the ABC’s Patricia Karvelas on the link between voting intentions and the state of the economy. 

Featured:

Patricia Karvelas, host of RN Breakfast and The Party Room podcast

What can be done to stop home owners from leaving prime real estate vacant?

Today, the good and bad reasons homes are left vacant and how governments could force owners to get these properties back on the market. 

Featured: 

Michael Janda, ABC business editor

It would escalate a trade war with China and risk a massive disruption to global trade. 

Would it really bring lost manufacturing jobs back to US towns and cities, or just push up prices? 

Today, chief business correspondent Ian Verrender explains the potential global impact of Trump’s risky economic plan. 

Featured: 

Ian Verrender, ABC chief business correspondent

Among the obstacles in her way are relentless racist and sexist attacks found online and from some Make America Great Again believers and conservative commentators. 

Today, Professor Nadia Brown, an expert on women and African American studies at Georgetown University in Washington DC, on how the messages of hate cut through. 

Featured: 

Nadia Brown, professor of government and the director of women’s and gender studies program at Georgetown University

Almost one in two Australians have had personal data, including potentially sensitive medical information, stolen and it’s up for sale on the dark web. 

What could scammers do with the information and can you do anything about it?

Today, the latest on the MediSecure hack of 12.9 million people’s prescription records.  

Featured: 

Ange Lavoipierre, ABC National Technology Reporter

It sounds like something you’d find in America, but it’s happening here. 

Today, investigative reporter Kevin Nguyen on the growth of the sovereign citizen movement and the danger it poses. 

Featured: 

Kevin Nguyen, ABC Investigations reporter

Assuming Kamala Harris secures the nomination, would Americans vote for a woman of colour and will the move win the US election for the Democratic Party? 

Today, we speak to a veteran Democratic Party strategist about the frenetic months ahead in the party’s campaign to retain the White House. 

Featured: 

Michael Trujillo, veteran Democratic Party Strategist

Joe Biden announced he would not be contesting a second term, endorsing his Vice-President Kamala Harris to take the reins. 

Today, Washington Post reporter Mariana Alfaro unpacks another historic day in US politics. 

Featured: 

Mariana Alfaro, Washington Post political reporter

But why would Latino voters fall in behind Trump, when he plans to launch a mass deportation of illegal immigrants who entered the US through the southern border? 

Today, Four Corners reporter Mark Willacy explains the role of the economy in November’s election and he takes us to the key swing states where votes from the Black and Latino communities will be key. 

Featured: 

Mark Willacy, Four Corners reporter

Kira Korolev had a job in the Australian army and is accused of trying to pass sensitive defence secrets to Moscow. 

Today, an expert in Russia and national security on the potential spies living amongst us.

Featured: 

Matthew Sussex, adjunct associate professor at the Australian National University

On stage at a Sydney concert, the comedy rock band’s Kyle Gass revealed his birthday wish was “don’t miss Trump next time”.

Now there are tensions within the band with Jack Black saying he was “blindsided” by the comment. 

Today, ABC News Daily producer Sam Dunn who was in the crowd at the concert, and comedian and co-host of The Chaser Report podcast Dom Knight on the fine line between comedy and offence. 

Featured: 

Sam Dunn, ABC News Daily producer

Dom Knight, co-founder of the Chaser and co-host of The Chaser Report podcast

The reporting has raised questions about lawlessness in the construction industry. 

Today, Richard Willingham, the ABC’s state political reporter in Victoria, takes us through the extraordinary allegations and the fallout. 

Featured: 

Richard Willingham, Victoria’s state political reporter

But what comes next in a deeply polarised America and does the weekend attack secure Trump the presidency? 

Today, we discuss the fallout with a former press secretary for Ronald Reagan, a president who also survived an assassination attempt.  

Featured: 

Kim Hoggard, a former staffer during Reagan and George H. W. Bush administrations

ABC News Daily put out an episode about the shooting and the implications for the campaign yesterday and you can find that in your feed. 

Today, we’re looking at “Project 2025”, a plan put together by Trump’s conservative allies for his next term in office. 

Four Corners reporter Mark Willacy has been exploring what a second Trump presidency could look like. 

Melissa Clarke spoke with Mark before the weekend’s attack on Donald Trump. 

Featured: 

Mark Willacy, Four Corners reporter

The shooting has shocked the United States, a country no stranger to political violence and gun crimes. 

Today, Associate Professor David Smith from the United States Studies Centre at Sydney University, on what has happened and what it means for November's presidential election.

Featured: 

David Smith, Associate Professor in American Politics and Foreign Policy from the United States Studies Centre at Sydney University

There’ll be a strict testing regime in place, but a dispute has been bubbling away between anti-doping agencies about the handling of 23 Chinese swimmers who returned positive tests three years ago.

Today, sport integrity expert Catherine Ordway on whether we can trust that the athletes we see at the Olympic Games are clean.

Featured: 

Catherine Ordway, Sport Integrity Research Lead at the University of Canberra

But he is under pressure to show he has the physical and mental capacity to defeat Republican nominee Donald Trump and serve another term as president.

With other potential Democrat replacements staying quiet, it leaves Vice-President Kamala Harris as the most likely to step in if Biden steps aside.

So, who is Kamala Harris and could she beat Trump? 

Featured: 

Julia Manchester, national political reporter with The Hill

After two rounds of voting, a coalition of left-wing parties won the most seats.

It has blocked the far-right from taking power but left the country with no dominant political force and the prospect of months of negotiations to form a government.

Today, Emmanuel Macron’s gamble and the political mess left behind.

Featured: 

William Drozdiak, Global Fellow with the Wilson Center's Global Europe Program and a former Washington Post foreign editor

One year ago, a committee of Labor, Coalition and crossbench MPs all agreed that gambling ads should be banned during sports broadcasts.

But 12 months on, there’s little sign of progress.

Today, the push and pushback, when it comes to sports, gambling and politics. 

Featured: 

Matthew Doran, ABC political reporter

For those with debt, expectations of an interest rate cut this year have evaporated and another rate rise is a distinct possibility.

It’s not how the federal government had hoped the year would pan out.

Today, the ABC’s Patricia Karvelas on how high prices are changing political calculations. 

Featured: 

Patricia Karvelas, host of RN Breakfast, Q&A and The Party Room podcast

One of the key policies the Tories ran on is a version of Australia’s offshore immigration detention policy, which was launched by Prime Minister John Howard in the lead-up to the 2001 election. 

This is episode four of Who Broke Britain? A special series from If You're Listening with Matt Bevan. 

ABC News Daily will be back tomorrow. 

But wherever there’s money, there are scammers.

They’re targeting superannuation accounts and with little more than a fake signature and a copy of your passport, they can clean out your life’s savings. 

Today, one man’s battle to get his money back.

Featured: 

Michael Atkin, national consumer affairs reporter

The combination of the Middle East conflict, old party traditions and a new generation of MPs is a volatile mix.

Today, Laura Tingle, the chief political correspondent for ABC TV’s 7.30 program, on the Labor party’s rigid rules and its ‘irreconcilable’ split with Senator Payman. 

Featured: 

Laura Tingle, 7.30’s chief political correspondent

It sets back efforts to prosecute Trump for his attempts to overturn the 2020 presidential election result. 

It also gives extraordinary immunity to presidents, putting actions deemed to be ‘official’ beyond the reach of the justice system.

Featured: 

Rick Hasen, Professor of Law at the University of California, Los Angeles and director of the Safeguarding Democracy Project

Democrats are openly discussing whether Biden should step aside for a new candidate, while Trump is taking a victory lap. 

Today, we speak to John Barron, co-host of Planet America, about how the election of one of the world’s most powerful leaders has come down to two unappealing candidates. 

Featured: 

John Barron, co-host of Planet America

She’s by no means alone. The stats show the number of people under 50 being diagnosed with cancer is increasing. 

Today, we speak with Jess about her experience and an oncologist about why cancer in young adults is on the rise. 

Featured: 

Jessica Kidd, bowel cancer survivor

Prof Jeanne Tie, medical oncologist and researcher

UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has led a disastrous campaign, but the Conservative Party’s demise has been long in the making. 

Today, we explain what David Cameron, Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak did to Britain, with Matt Bevan, host of the podcast series Who Broke Britain? 

Featured: 

Matt Bevan, host of If You’re Listening podcast

He’s awaiting sentencing after being found guilty of killing Carol Clay. He was found not guilty of murdering Russell Hill. 

Today, creator of the Trace podcast Rachael Brown takes us through the captivating and unusual case. 

Featured: 

Rachael Brown, ABC Development Executive True Crime

A plea deal has been reached with the United States and soon the 52 year old will be back on Australian soil.

But why did he finally plead guilty and what’s next for the WikiLeaks founder? 

Today, Peter Greste, a former Al Jazeera journalist who was jailed in Egypt for 13 months. 

Featured: 

Peter Greste, professor of journalism at Macquarie University and executive director of The Alliance for Journalists’ Freedom. 

In one case, an Australian woman born via IVF thinks she could have up to 700 siblings, another woman’s eggs were fertilised with the wrong sperm, and 17 embryos were lost after being accidentally contaminated. 

Today, Four Corners reporter Grace Tobin on the scandals the fertility industry would prefer to keep hidden. 

Featured: 

Grace Tobin, Four Corners reporter

Now, Mark Zuckerberg’s Meta is taking your public social media posts, pictures, captions and comments to train AI and there’s not much you can do about it. 

Today, Kimberlee Weatherall, an expert in the regulation of technology from Sydney University on Meta’s latest moves.

Featured: 

Kimberlee Weatherall, Professor of Law at the University of Sydney 

It’s a claim that would be music to most Australians ears, given the cost of gas and electricity has surged. 

But how likely is it that building expensive nuclear plants could lead to cheaper power?  

Featured: 

Daniel Mercer, ABC energy reporter

So, voters will have a choice at the next election, between Labor’s renewable energy future or one that’s nuclear powered. 

Today, the ABC’s David Speers on what will be one of the biggest policy debates of our time.  

Featured: 

David Speers, ABC National Political Lead and host of Insiders

That’s bad news for people repaying debt, while prices keep rising and we’re teetering on the edge of a recession. 

Today, the ABC’s Ian Verrender explains what’s going on. 

Featured: 

Ian Verrender, Chief Business Correspondent

Female students at a private school in Melbourne have been sickened after their innocent photos were transformed into abusive and explicit images. 

Today, Raf Epstein from ABC Radio Melbourne on how it unfolded and whether we can stop it happening again.

Featured: 

Rafael Epstein, presenter of ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings

She held a ritzy function with her billionaire husband in London last week to raise money for the Trump campaign.

The former US president has seen cash flowing into his campaign since he was convicted of 34 felony charges last month.

In the lead up to November’s US election, is Donald Trump or Joe Biden winning the race for campaign funding?

Today, Sarah Bryner from OpenSecrets, a non-profit group that tracks money in politics. 

Featured: 

Sarah Bryner, Director of Research and Strategy at OpenSecrets 

He says the Coalition is still committed to net zero by 2050, but will Australians really stomach a watering down of our climate policy ambition for the next decade? 

Today, host of ABC Radio National Breakfast and The Party Room podcast, Patricia Karvelas, on Dutton’s climate punt. 

Featured: 

Patricia Karvelas, host of ABC Radio National Breakfast and The Party Room podcast

New weapons from the United States are starting to reach the front lines, raising Ukrainian hopes of repelling the invading forces. 

Today, Rajan Menon from the Washington based think tank Defense Priorities, on when the war might end. 

Featured: 

Rajan Menon, director of the Grand Strategy program at Defense Priorities 

Now he’s resigned as chairman of Nine Entertainment.

It’s not been a great time at Nine with its former news boss Darren Wick reportedly departing with a million-dollar payout despite sexual harassment accusations against him. 

Today, host of the ABC’s Media Watch program Paul Barry on how the scandal unfolded. 

Featured: 

Paul Barry, host of Media Watch

Battles are raging across the country over the placement of wind farms. 

Growing community objections are slowing Australia’s fight against climate change and the transition to a green energy future. 

Today, we assess the arguments around the impact on the environment and country views. 

Featured: 

Angus Grigg, Four Corners’ reporter

Now there’s a push to class the condition as a disability, but is that going too far?

Today, migraine sufferer Tamara Oudyn, who presents the ABC TV news in Melbourne, on her experience and why it’s an area of medicine that’s been largely ignored. 

Featured: 

Tamara Oudyn, migraine sufferer

In the meantime, we wanted to let you know about The Global Story, a podcast from the BBC. 

In each episode, host Katya Adler brings together different perspectives to tell one big international news story. 

Find The Global Story on the BBC website or wherever you get your podcasts.

He says he’ll slash numbers to help address overwhelming demand for housing, childcare and hospital beds.

But what would life be like if immigration slowed dramatically? 

Today, economist Saul Eslake on population growth and whether we really need it. 

Featured: 

Saul Eslake, independent economist

In a shock result, he’s held on to power, but his party has lost its majority in parliament. 

Today, Avani Dias, who was until recently the ABC’s correspondent in India, discusses the result and how Prime Minister Modi has worked to cement his power. 

She also shares her own ordeal of being hounded and harassed because of her reporting on the ground. 

Featured: 

Avani Dias, fmr ABC South Asia correspondent 

That he was found guilty of 34 counts of falsifying business records to cover up a sex scandal has only emboldened his loyal supporters.

Who are they, what risk do they pose to stability in the US and are there enough of them for Trump to win the November election?

Featured: 

Andy Kroll, ProPublica investigative reporter

It’s caused such outrage the government’s been scrambling to modify something called direction 99. 

It was a change to the rules made just over a year ago after pressure from New Zealand about the people Australia was deporting. 

Today, national affairs editor Melissa Clarke explains the latest immigration scandal. 

Featured: 

Melissa Clarke, ABC national affairs editor

That’s the reality for a growing number of Australians who can’t cope with the 13 interest rate hikes ordered by the Reserve Bank.

Today, business editor Michael Janda explains what the data shows about growing hardship for borrowers and why the big banks have a case to answer. 

Featured: 

Michael Janda, ABC Business Editor

A jury has found him guilty on all charges in a scheme to illegally influence the 2016 election through a hush money payment to a porn star who said the two had sex.  

Will Donald Trump go to jail? 

Today, Bruce Wolpe, a senior fellow from the US Studies Centre and author of Trump’s Australia on what it all means for the former president's campaign for the White House.

Featured: 

Bruce Wolpe, senior fellow at the United States Studies Centre

It’s more complicated than you’d think. 

Today, climate reporter Jo Lauder compares the lifetime greenhouse gas footprint of an electric car with that of a petrol car and delivers the verdict. 

Featured: 

Jo Lauder, ABC climate reporter

But Benjamin Netanyahu ignored that, insisting he’s pursuing Hamas, and now civilians living in makeshift camps are dying.

Today, global affairs editor John Lyons explores what could happen next. 

Featured: 

John Lyons, ABC Global Affairs Editor

Australia’s first human case of this outbreak was reported this month and farms in Victoria have been hit by the virus. 

But how concerned should we be about the possibility of a human pandemic?

Featured: 

Professor Raina MacIntyre, Professor of Global Biosecurity at the Kirby Institute, UNSW

But now, one woman who lost half a million dollars in a fake investment scheme has fought back, tracking down and confronting the scammer, before passing the details on to police. 

Featured: 

Michael Atkin, ABC consumer affairs reporter

So how are political leaders planning to fix the nation’s housing crisis?

Peter Dutton’s proposal is to slash migration to free up housing.

And Labor has a plan to build 1.2 million new homes over the next five years.

But how do they stack up?

Featured: 

Ann Chakraborty, Melbourne renter

Gareth Hutchens, ABC business and economics reporter

But they went ahead and released a chatbot that the actor thinks sounds “eerily similar” to herself. 

As artificial intelligence becomes more sophisticated, how do we protect ourselves from being copied? 

Featured: 

Sharon Goldman, AI reporter at Fortune

Not only because it’s rare for boats to make it to the mainland but those on board are almost never from China. 

So why are Chinese nationals so desperate to get to Australia that they pay people smugglers?  

Featured: 

Wing Kuang, ABC reporter

Vincent Namatjira’s painting of Gina Rinehart is apparently so unflattering the National Gallery of Australia has been asked to take it down. 

Now it’s making news around the world. 

Today, host of RN’s The Art Show, Daniel Browning, on how an attempt to censor art backfired. 

Featured: 

Daniel Browning, host of RN’s The Art Show and ABC editor of Indigenous radio

So, what is Labor up to given it sold itself as climate friendly at the last election?

Today, chief political correspondent for the ABC’s 7.30 program Laura Tingle on Labor’s new gas policy and the outrage that followed. 

Featured: 

Laura Tingle, 7.30 chief political correspondent