7am

Daria Impiombato, a senior analyst at the Mercator Institute for China Studies, dives into the implications of China's drastic reproductive policies. She discusses how the Communist Party is pushing childbirth as a national duty amidst an ageing population and declining birth rates. Daria highlights the problematic legacy of the one-child policy, rising costs of living, and new measures like taxing contraception. The push for higher birth rates risks women's autonomy and raises concerns about public trust in the government's ability to address deeper societal issues.

Karen Middleton, a seasoned press gallery journalist and political commentator, dives into the recent scandal involving Labor Minister Anika Wells. She discusses the eyebrow-raising $94,000 trip to New York and the political fallout from extravagant taxpayer-funded travel for sporting events. The conversation reveals a significant disconnect between the rules governing entitlements and public expectations amid a cost-of-living crisis. Middleton provides historical context, exploring past scandals that reshaped political careers, leaving listeners questioning whether change is on the horizon.

Dr. Albert Palazzo, former Director of War Studies for the Australian Army and adjunct professor at UNSW, dives deep into the complexities of AUKUS. He critiques the optimistic rhetoric surrounding the alliance, shedding light on the secrecy of a Pentagon review not available to the public. Palazzo explains U.S. military plans for enhanced presence in Australia and raises concerns about the feasibility of submarine production amid growing tensions with China. His advocacy for diplomacy over military escalation offers a compelling alternative in this high-stakes discussion.

Sherryn Groch, a crime reporter at The Age with expertise in extremist groups, reveals alarming developments within Australia’s neo-Nazi networks. She discusses their plans to establish secret homeschooling groups for their children. Groch highlights recent threats against female politicians and the escalating political violence associated with these groups. She also examines the authorities' responses, including arrests and the complexities of monitoring extremist activities. The National Socialist Network's ambitions to enter politics further illustrate the gravity of this issue.

David Herzberg, a drug historian and professor at the University at Buffalo, dives into the roots of America’s fentanyl crisis. He argues that the real origin lies within the U.S. pharmaceutical industry rather than foreign traffickers. Herzberg highlights how Trump’s aggressive tactics could exacerbate the situation, making drug markets more violent. He advocates for pragmatic solutions like regulating drug markets and improving treatment options, challenging the notion that supply-side strikes are effective.

Adele Ferguson, an investigative journalist at the ABC, sheds light on the alarming issues within Australia's childcare system after her award-winning reporting. Alongside Anne Hollonds, former National Children's Commissioner, they discuss the shocking allegations of abuse, flaws in safety checks, and the profit-driven motives hurting child safety. Adele advocates for national reforms and better tracking of educators, while Anne emphasizes the need for independent oversight and robust regulations. They challenge current policies that prioritize access over safety, highlighting society's neglect of children's needs.

Karen Middleton, a seasoned press gallery journalist known for her insights into federal politics, discusses the recently released ‘No Favourites’ review. This report reveals a troubling culture of nepotism within political appointments, contradicting Labor's promise to restore integrity. Middleton critiques the government's delayed transparency and selective acceptance of the report's recommendations. She warns that failing to address these integrity issues risks public trust, likening the situation to a satirical 'Yes Minister' scenario.

Alison Reeve, the energy and climate change program director at The Grattan Institute, dives into the alarming warnings about potential blackouts as the Eraring power station prepares to close. She discusses the complexities of Australia’s electricity market, highlighting regulatory gaps rather than failures of renewable energy. Reeve also tackles rising power prices driven by external factors like war and weather, and advocates for a shift away from gas dependence while emphasizing the importance of strong emissions policies for the future.

Kateryna Argyrou, Chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations, discusses Australia's controversial imports of refined Russian oil, dubbed 'blood oil'. She shares harrowing personal stories of life under siege in Ukraine, including nightly attacks and blackouts. Kateryna reveals how loopholes in sanctions allow this oil to flow into Australia, contradicting the nation’s proclaimed support for Ukraine. She emphasizes the moral implications and urges stronger actions to support Ukraine, rather than concessions that could prolong the war.

Cam Wilson, associate editor at Crikey, dives into Australia's looming social media ban for teens under 16. He discusses the Digital Freedom Project and the teen plaintiffs challenging the government's decision in court. With TikTok users sharing workarounds and alternative apps like Yope gaining popularity, Cam explores potential consequences and enforcement issues. He questions whether the ban will genuinely protect children or simply drive them to unregulated platforms, highlighting the ongoing battle between youthful innovation and government regulation.