7am

Press gallery journalist Karen Middleton dives into the complexities of Afghanistan's embassy in exile in Canberra, highlighting its poignant role under the Taliban's regime. She discusses the challenges these exiled diplomats face, including funding and recognition, while shedding light on the Taliban's urgency for international legitimacy. Middleton also reveals the impact of a nationwide internet blackout on Afghans and explores how exiled communities maintain their cultural identity, offering insights into a crisis that transcends borders.

Journalist and author Ariel Bogle sheds light on the rising use of force by police at protests, citing alarming incidents like photojournalist Alex Zucco's experience with capsicum spray. Bogle explains the mechanics of less-lethal weapons, including OC spray and rubber bullets, and discusses their origins from arms manufacturers. She highlights how recent legal changes have granted police broader powers, fostering a culture of aggression. The conversation also addresses the psychological impacts on protesters and challenges victims face in seeking justice.

Mon Schafter, a Walkley Award-winning journalist and the founding editor of ABC Queer, dives into the lasting impact of a controversial 1970s study on transgender youth. They discuss how this outdated research is still misused to undermine trans healthcare today. Schafter shares the harrowing story of Jane, who was subjected to harmful treatment as a child and how these experiences shape current policy debates. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding the ramifications of past studies on present-day trans rights and healthcare.

Liz Pelly, an author and journalist renowned for her work on Spotify and AI, dives deep into Daniel Ek's surprising connections to the military AI sector. She discusses how Spotify's playlist strategy has reshaped music consumption and concerns over AI-generated tracks impacting artists' royalties. The conversation highlights the growing artist backlash against the platform's defense ties, leading to account cancellations. Pelly advocates for user-centric models and direct support options to help independent musicians thrive amidst these challenges.

Amy Remeikis, a contributing editor at The New Daily, delves into Labor's ambitious environmental law reforms and the complexities they face. She highlights the challenges posed by industry opposition and a previously collapsed deal with the Greens. The conversation shifts to the Coalition's resistance and its focus on mining interests, while also addressing the wider identity crisis within the party. Remeikis critically examines whether proposed reforms can truly safeguard the environment, stressing the tension between business demands and ecological protection.

Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, dives into the recent agreement between Israel and Hamas on Trump’s peace plan. He breaks down the dynamics of the hostage release and prisoner exchange and discusses Netanyahu's political framing of the deal. The conversation touches on the implications of troop withdrawals and the dire humanitarian needs in Gaza. Carlstrom also highlights the pressures influencing Hamas's acceptance of the deal and explores the challenges ahead for compliance and future negotiations.

In this discussion, journalist Nick Feik critiques Anthony Albanese's climate pledge and the government's inadequate emissions targets. He highlights how the proposed range of 62–70% for reductions falls short and lacks strong legislative support. Feik also delves into the media's role in framing climate issues, suggesting it has turned serious policy debates into political theater. He warns that this could lead to a dangerous disconnect between political narratives and public trust as climate impacts escalate.

In this intriguing discussion, economist Saul Eslake delves into Labor's home-buyer scheme and its implications for Australia's housing crisis. He critiques the scheme's effectiveness, arguing that it may inadvertently raise prices rather than enhance affordability. Eslake also explores the historical failures of similar policies and the political motivations behind rising housing prices. He questions whether the government's ambitious supply targets can genuinely address the crisis and emphasizes that meaningful solutions may require challenging price structures.

Karen Middleton, a seasoned political reporter, delves into the fallout from Andrew Hastie's resignation. They discuss the surprising motivations behind Hastie’s departure, including his concerns over immigration and energy policies. Middleton gives insight into Hastie's military background and leadership ambitions, highlighting how his dissent could shake the Liberal Party’s dynamics. The conversation also touches on Susan Ley's response to the crisis and the implications it has for her leadership and potential coalition instability.

Join media reporter Daanyal Saeed, who has investigated the controversial ties between the Parliament Sports Club and the gambling lobby. Discover how this seemingly wholesome sporting gathering transformed into a lobbying powerhouse with ties to the Prime Minister and major sporting bodies. Saeed reveals the implications of the Murphy Review, which suggested urgent reforms against gambling ads, and discusses the slow government response to these recommendations. Explore the conflicting interests of different sporting codes in the face of gambling revenue.