7am

Rick Morton, a senior reporter for The Saturday Paper known for his investigative work on welfare issues, delves into a harrowing glitch in Australia's welfare system. The government ignored this error for three years, leading to the tragic deaths of ten individuals due to lost support. Morton uncovers the failure of officials to act in the interest of vulnerable people, raising crucial questions about accountability. He highlights the systemic issues stemming from privatization, revealing the severe impact of bureaucracy on those in need.

Malarndirri McCarthy, the Minister for Indigenous Australians, tackles the sobering findings of the latest Closing the Gap report, where only five of 19 targets show progress. She discusses criticism surrounding the initiative, including calls for its overhaul, and highlights new government funding targeted at remote communities. The conversation covers urgent issues like rising Indigenous incarceration rates, the need for reform in justice systems, and empowering First Nations through job opportunities, particularly for women. McCarthy emphasizes community-driven solutions and aims for a more effective partnership.

In this engaging discussion, McKay Coppins, a staff writer at The Atlantic renowned for his investigative work on the Murdoch family, delves into the intricate dynamics of the empire. He shares insights on James Murdoch's emotional struggles regarding his father's favoritism during a pivotal Zoom call. Coppins also highlights the high-stakes legal battle over the family trust and discusses the fraught relations within the family. Additionally, he critiques Fox News from James's perspective, raising questions about the media's role in shaping legacy and democracy.

McKay Coppins, a staff writer at The Atlantic, interviews James Murdoch about the explosive feud within the Murdoch family. They discuss the emotional turmoil during the court battle over the media empire, revealing James' strained relationship with his father and brother. He shares insights into his motivations for speaking out about the conflicts and the implications for the family's future. Coppins highlights the complexities of loyalty and personal beliefs versus corporate politics, shedding light on the family's turbulent dynamics.

Alex Miller, a two-time Miles Franklin Award-winning author at 88, discusses his latest novel, The Deal. He delves into themes of grief and memory shaped by the loss of his friend Alan O'Hoy. The conversation highlights the intricate connections between storytelling and personal relationships, especially regarding societal issues like racism in Australia. Miller reflects on how age and personal experiences deepen artistic expression, emphasizing the healing power of narrative after loss.

Paul Bongiorno, a columnist at The Saturday Paper, dives into the political pressure surrounding Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's election timing. He discusses how Labor backbenchers are keen on calling an election after recent interest rate cuts. Bongiorno examines Peter Dutton's struggles for relevance as he navigates government successes without solid policy responses. The conversation also touches on urgent political moves, like the impact of the Wayala steelworks on job preservation, and the government's communication tactics in a challenging economic landscape.

Jason Koutsoukis, a special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, sheds light on ASIO's alarming threat assessment revealing Australia's most challenging security landscape in half a century. He discusses the rise of foreign interference, with governments attempting to influence Australian politics and elections. Koutsoukis also covers the prevalence of self-radicalization among youth, driven by extremist ideologies and social media. Moreover, he delves into the implications of espionage in the context of AUKUS, highlighting the nation's urgent need for robust defense strategies.

In this insightful discussion, investigative journalist Brian Deer, known for his in-depth work on vaccine misinformation, delves into Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s controversial role in the anti-vaccine movement. Deer highlights Kennedy's conflicting statements about vaccination, arguing he is one of the most prominent anti-vaccine advocates globally. They also discuss the heartbreaking consequences of a deadly measles outbreak in Samoa, linking it to declining vaccination rates fueled by misinformation. The emotional toll and community struggles are poignantly illustrated through personal stories.

Emily Barrett, the managing editor of The Saturday Paper, dives into the Reserve Bank's recent interest rate cut, the first since 2020. She discusses the limited relief this offers mortgage holders and the modest savings compared to past hikes. Emily explores how this decision impacts the government's narrative ahead of upcoming elections, as well as the broader economic context of inflation and employment. She challenges traditional views on the relationship between these factors and critiques the Reserve Bank's strategies amidst changing public perceptions.

Rick Morton, a senior reporter at The Saturday Paper known for his investigative prowess, unravels the shocking saga behind a failed takeover of Meals on Wheels. He dives into the dubious alliances and motivations that drove a privatization attempt, raising critical questions about the misuse of taxpayer funds. The conversation also emphasizes the vital role Meals on Wheels plays in providing not just meals, but essential companionship to the elderly. Listeners are treated to a gripping narrative filled with betrayal and the real impact on community care.