7am

Karen Barlow, Chief Political Correspondent for The Saturday Paper, dives into the surprising revival of the Coalition. She discusses the crucial choices facing Sussan Ley and debates about trust between the Liberal and National parties. The conversation explores their negotiations around key issues like nuclear power and the implications of a potential breakup ahead of the 2028 elections. Barlow also highlights the struggle for party unity as the Liberals seek to modernize while balancing core values.

In this discussion, Jason Koutsoukis, a special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, unpacks the surprising split between the Liberals and Nationals. He highlights the tensions that led to the breakdown, including unmet policy demands and internal party strife. Koutsoukis also examines what this means for the future of Australian politics, emphasizing the shifting power dynamics and the Nationals' diminished status. The conversation delves into the challenges both parties face, including climate commitments and electoral viability.

Thousands of children from South Korea have been adopted by Australian families over decades. In many cases, these children were raised to believe they were orphans – and their adoptive families believed they were doing something loving and selfless by giving them a home. But a much more sinister truth has been laid bare: South Korea’s own Truth and Reconciliation Commission exposed how many of those adoptions were built on falsified orphan records, and traced trafficking and forged documents back to the agencies involved. Today, associate editor for The Saturday Paper, Martin McKenzie-Murray, on the trafficking of fake orphans, and whether Australia is finally ready to confront its role in the trade.   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: Associate editor for The Saturday Paper, Martin McKenzie-Murray. Photo: AP Photo/Ahn Young-joonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gregg Carlstrom, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, dives into the escalating conflict in Gaza, detailing Israel's recent military strategies and the shocking humanitarian crisis. He discusses the complexities behind Israel's tactics, the mixed sentiments within Israeli society about the war, and the implications of Donald Trump's recent visit to the region. Carlstrom reveals how U.S. involvement could shift the status quo and suggests what a potential ceasefire might look like, highlighting the tangled web of international and local politics at play.

Joining the discussion is Mike Seccombe, National correspondent for The Saturday Paper, who highlights the recent leadership shift in the Australian Greens with Larissa Waters taking charge. He explores the challenges ahead as she aims to reshape the party's image after a significant election loss. Topics include the struggle against perceptions of being obstructive, the need for collaboration with other political entities, and the complexities of nature-positive laws amidst competing interests. Can Waters revitalize the party's mission in today’s political landscape?

Josephine Rowe discusses the beauty and depth of her latest novel, 'Little World', revealing how her personal experiences and environments shape her writing. The conversation touches on the creative journey, balancing emotions in character development, and the vital role of a library card in her life. Additionally, the podcast critiques traditional storytelling narratives, advocating for more authentic voices and experiences, even those beyond human perspectives. Rowe's insights provide a fresh take on writing and the intricate relationship between art and life.

In this engaging discussion, Jason Koutsoukis, a special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, unravels the mysterious influence of Paul Erickson on Labor's electoral success. Despite his low profile, Erickson's strategic genius and disciplined campaign management played pivotal roles in the victory. Koutsoukis dives into Erickson's mentorship within the party, his tactical insights against opposition leaders, and what lies ahead for him in politics. This deep dive sheds light on the quiet force behind Labor's landslide triumph.

Karen Barlow, the Chief Political Correspondent for The Saturday Paper, discusses Sussan Ley's challenging leap to leadership of the Coalition after a historic electoral defeat. Ley is tasked with uniting a divided party and revitalizing its platform to attract city women and younger voters. Barlow explores Ley's unique journey as a migrant and the ideological rifts within the party, along with the dynamics of her confrontational style against Anthony Albanese. Economic challenges and recent news also weigh on Ley’s strategies moving forward.

Jason Koutsoukis, a special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, delves into Anthony Albanese's newly sworn-in ministry. The discussion centers on the controversial axing of Ed Husic, who labeled Deputy PM Richard Marles a “factional assassin.” Koutsoukis examines how factionalism influences the Labor Party, looking at the balance between talent and loyalty. He also highlights the implications of Tanya Plibersek's cabinet reshuffle and predicts future tensions influenced by personal ambitions within the party.

Julia Banks, a former Liberal MP, shares her raw experiences as a woman navigating the political landscape. She discusses the rampant sexism and misogyny she faced, alongside the moral dilemmas that led to her departure from the Liberal Party. Banks argues that the party struggles to attract female candidates and needs to evolve to resonate with younger voters. Highlighting the rise of community independents, she emphasizes the urgent need for the Liberal Party to reconsider its approach to gender representation and modern societal values.