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
Sep 3, 2025 • 19min
Abul Rizvi on how silence and stalling stoke anti-migrant fears
A former deputy secretary of the immigration department under the Howard government says 'it's time politicians on both sides pulled up their socks'.Mentioned in this episode:Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newsletters
Aug 28, 2025 • 27min
Health Minister Mark Butler on kids on the NDIS through to aged care funding
The health minister also says fewer kids are now vaping because of the government's ban, which 'exploded' as a health problem during the COVID years.Mentioned in this episode:Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newsletters
Aug 19, 2025 • 34min
Shadow Treasurer Ted O'Brien and industry chief Andrew McKellar's reform wish list
Both men say the government has a 'spending problem' and are urging the federal government to think beyond raising taxes – especially for business.Mentioned in this episode:How Australian Democracy Works'How Australian Democracy Works' edited by Politics Editor Amanda Dunn is out now in all good book stores.Sign up to The Conversation's newsletterhttps://theconversation.com/au/newsletters
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
