7am Albanese’s ‘bizarre’ reversal at Home Affairs
6 snips
Jun 9, 2025 
In a deep dive with Jason Koutsoukis, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, listeners explore the unexpected consolidation of power in Australia's Home Affairs ministry under Tony Burke. Koutsoukis unpacks Albanese's surprising policy reversal that strengthens this portfolio. They discuss the implications for national security, especially in light of recent events like the Dural Caravan incident. The conversation also touches on Burke's rising influence, the intricate dance of political dynamics, and shifts in communication protocols among key agencies.
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Albanese's Home Affairs Reversal
- Anthony Albanese initially dismantled the Home Affairs super-ministry, removing ASIO and the AFP.
- Later, he reversed course, making Home Affairs even more powerful under Tony Burke's control.
Home Affairs Agencies Shifted Twice
- Albanese removed ASIO, AFP, AUSTRAC, and cybercrime from Home Affairs initially.
- He later returned all these agencies to a more powerful Home Affairs ministry under Tony Burke.
Caravan Incident Influenced Reversal
- The Dural caravan incident exposed critical briefing failures between AFP and ministers.
- This incident likely influenced the decision to centralize national security agencies under Home Affairs.