Politics with Michelle Grattan
The Conversation
The Conversation's Chief Political Correspondent Michelle Grattan talks politics with politicians and experts, from Capital Hill.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 14, 2025 • 18min
Union boss Sally McManus on the push for shorter work hours in the age of AI
McManus doesn't expect instant wins on shorter work hours from next week's economic summit, but says it still needs to be on the table – along with AI protections.Mentioned in this episode:Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newsletters
Aug 13, 2025 • 35min
Jim Chalmers wants roundtable to 'crack open' the challenge of slow housing approvals
Housing is on the agenda at next week's productivity roundtable, with the Treasurer wanting better regulation and faster approvals to build more homes.Mentioned in this episode:Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newsletters
Aug 7, 2025 • 25min
Talking about 'blokes' issues' with ex-Olympian and Labor MP Dan Repacholi
The former five-time Olympic shooter and coal miner wants men of all ages not to be afraid of speaking about their health – as he used to be.Mentioned in this episode:Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newslettersThe Conversation WeeklySearch for 'The Conversation Weekly' wherever you get your podcasts.
Jul 31, 2025 • 29min
YouTube, podcasters and leading economists: Allegra Spender on how she's trying to influence tax reform
The influential crossbench MP warns young working people are going backwards financially. She also backs the government's proposed YouTube ban for kids – for now.Mentioned in this episode:Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newsletters
Jul 24, 2025 • 22min
Chris Bowen on why it's ‘a little frustrating’ bidding for COP 31
We're joined on this podcast by the Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen who outlines Australia's ongoing energy transition.Mentioned in this episode:The Conversation WeeklySearch for 'The Conversation Weekly' wherever you get your podcasts.
Jul 16, 2025 • 40min
Malcolm Turnbull on Australia's 'dumb' defence debate
The former prime minister warns debate about national security has 'never been dumber' – and AUKUS risks costing Australia far more than anyone wants to admit.Mentioned in this episode:Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newsletters
Jul 10, 2025 • 23min
Larissa Waters on why we deserve more than a government that just tinkers
With the government's big win at the election, how hard will the Greens push on legislation this term. We ask new leader Senator Larissa Waters. Mentioned in this episode:The Conversation WeeklySearch for 'The Conversation Weekly' wherever you get your podcasts.Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newsletters
Jul 2, 2025 • 31min
Kerrynne Liddle on seizing more opportunities with Indigenous Australians
The shadow minister for Indigenous Australians and social services says we need 'unpleasant conversations' to achieve real outcomes – like keeping families together.Mentioned in this episode:Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newslettersThe Conversation WeeklySearch for 'The Conversation Weekly' wherever you get your podcasts.
Jun 26, 2025 • 29min
Treasury veteran Ken Henry on the "enormous damage" the tax system does to young people
Former secretary of the Treasury Ken Henry joins us to talk about his 40+ years experience in working to reform Australia's tax system. Mentioned in this episode:Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newsletters
Jun 17, 2025 • 35min
An 'impatient' Jim Chalmers on taking political risks in Labor's second term
From new ways to fast-track cheaper homes and renewable energy to bigger tax reforms, Treasurer Jim Chalmers tells the podcast his door is open for fresh ideas.Mentioned in this episode:Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newsletters
