7am

At one point during this term of government, Indigenous affairs dominated national debate. Politicians, pundits and the public couldn't stop talking about it.  But since the Voice referendum failed, it’s become something of a taboo. Labor is eager to move on, while the Coalition is more focused on scoring points than offering a plan.  Now, with the election weeks away, there are glimpses of what might come next. Labor says it’s about delivering jobs. The Coalition says it’s about cutting waste. Today, contributor for The Saturday Paper, Ben Abbatangelo, on what the major parties are really offering – and what it all means for First Nations people around the country.   If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.   Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Contributor for The Saturday Paper Ben Abbatangelo Photo: AAP Image / Lukas CochSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last year, reporter Mike Seccombe looked into the divide between Australia’s richest and poorest schools to find out why this gap keeps widening. What he found was a broken system. Rich parents are able to get huge tax breaks by donating to opulent building projects at their kids’ private schools.  It’s a practice that goes way back, despite many arguing the tactic has become outdated. Today, national correspondent for The Saturday Paper and a proud state school boy, Mike Seccombe, on why we need an overhaul of the charitable giving system that delivers some kids castles. This episode was originally published in July last year.    If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.   Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: National correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Mike Seccombe. Photo: Taylor ConstructionSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a heated leaders' debate, Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton showcased their contrasting visions for Australia. Albanese brought optimism, while Dutton urged voters to consider their current situation. Key topics included housing proposals, with differing approaches to new construction and tax rebates. Energy policies were critiqued, revealing vague plans on both sides. The discussion also touched upon challenges in leadership, foreign affairs, and engagement with Indigenous communities. Ultimately, neither leader emerged victorious from the debate.

Jason Koutsoukis, a special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, dives into how Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is leveraging Donald Trump's influence during a tumultuous campaign season. They discuss the challenges posed by Trump's trade policies and how Labor is seizing the moment to emphasize stability amid global turmoil. Koutsoukis also sheds light on Peter Dutton's counter-strategies and the impact of healthcare debates, housing affordability struggles, and international relations on Australia's political landscape.

Jonathan Holmes, Chair of ABC Alumni and former host of Media Watch, dives into the precarious funding landscape for the ABC amidst potential cuts from a Dutton-led government. He reflects on the historical pattern of budget slashes and the implications for public broadcasting’s integrity. The discussion also highlights the challenges of appealing to younger audiences in a digital age while navigating political pressures. Holmes emphasizes the urgent need for support to bolster quality programming and safeguard the national broadcaster from external influences.

Tim Flannery, Chief Councillor of the Climate Council and a seasoned climate change observer, discusses the urgent need for Australia to embrace renewable energy. He critiques the Coalition's nuclear energy plan as impractical and emphasizes the feasibility and benefits of expanding renewables. Flannery highlights the importance of the upcoming election in shaping climate policy and expresses optimism that it might be the last election focused on climate action, urging Australians to prioritize sustainable solutions over past mistakes.

Ayşegül Savaş's novel reveals the beauty of young love and the joy of everyday moments without typical conflicts. It dives into intimate rituals couples create as they navigate a new city. The conversation also touches on the theme of foreignness, exploring how it can foster a sense of belonging and the task of portraying universal experiences. Savaş discusses the complexities of identity in relationships and the creative reinventions that come with moving to a new culture, crafting fresh traditions and practices.

Abul Rizvi, former deputy secretary of the Department of Immigration, shares his insights on Australia's population growth and immigration policies. He discusses Peter Dutton's proposal to cut migrant numbers by 100,000 annually and its potential consequences on the housing crisis and workforce. Rizvi argues for a long-term population plan, highlighting the government's inconsistent approach to immigration amidst rapid population increases. He emphasizes the need for a strategic migration strategy that balances economic benefits with infrastructure challenges.

In this episode, Wall Street Journal reporter Emily Glazer explores Elon Musk's audacious challenge to NASA's moon missions. With Musk pushing for Mars instead, tensions rise as insiders criticize his disruptive influence. Glazer examines the ripple effects on major contractors like SpaceX and Blue Origin while highlighting Congress's struggle to regulate the evolving space industry. The conversation also touches on Musk's vision for colonizing Mars and the implications for social equity and environmental challenges on Earth.

In this enlightening discussion, Wall Street Journal reporter Emily Glazer, who focuses on power dynamics, sheds light on Elon Musk's ambitious plan to reshape NASA. They delve into Musk's vision for colonizing Mars and the implications of his close ties with Donald Trump. Glazer highlights the strategic shifts Musk is pushing within NASA, including the influence of key SpaceX officials. The conversation also tackles the challenges of establishing a Martian colony, emphasizing why Musk believes this mission is crucial for humanity's future.