7am

Richard McGregor, a senior fellow at the Lowy Institute, delves into the rise of the BYD Shark in Australia, highlighting its appeal as an affordable, tech-savvy vehicle. He raises concerns over data privacy, discussing how these cars act as data collection tools and the implications of Chinese tech access on national security. McGregor warns of potential surveillance risks and the need for Australians to safeguard their personal data while reflecting on lessons learned from the Huawei 5G ban.

Ashleigh Raper, Political Editor at Network Ten, provides astute insights into Sussan Ley's media blitz as she attempts to reshape her leadership image by scrapping net zero. The discussion highlights internal Liberal tensions and how the chaos has inadvertently softened the government's stance. Raper also delves into Labor's final push for environmental laws and the implications of Australia's failed bid to host COP, revealing both risks and missed opportunities for fossil fuel discussions.

Political correspondent Bo Erickson from Reuters, who covers Capitol Hill, discusses a historic decision by Congress to release the Epstein files. He examines the surprising Republican unity behind the vote, detailing key figures like Marjorie Taylor Greene and Lauren Boebert who broke from Trump. Erickson highlights Trump's dramatic shift from opposing to supporting the release, the potential fallout within his base, and insights from Epstein survivors on accountability. This revealing conversation sheds light on the political implications of the files.

Sussan Ley, a prominent leader of the Liberal Party and opposition politician, discusses her party's controversial decision to abandon the net zero 2050 commitment. She argues this move is essential for achieving affordable energy for families while attributing blame to Labor's energy management. Ley addresses internal pressures within her party and her approach to leadership that adapts to current needs. The conversation also touches on how the Coalition plans to reduce emissions without a net zero target, emphasizing technology-driven strategies.

Kos Samaras, Director of Strategy and Analytics at Redbridge, dives into the striking rise of One Nation, now supported by almost one in five Australians. He explores the Coalition's alarming loss of urban voters, particularly among younger demographics. The discussion highlights how recent policy decisions, like scrapping net zero, have alienated younger voters. Samaras warns this surge may indicate a lasting shift on Australia's political right, while outlining the electoral challenges for both the Coalition and Labor amidst growing economic anxiety.

Nerita Waight, the CEO of the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service and a Yorta Yorta and Narangiri woman, delves into the implications of new youth justice laws allowing 14-year-olds to face adult trials. She highlights the disproportionate impact on Aboriginal children, emphasizing increased imprisonment and loss of specialized protections. Nerita advocates for a rights-based approach focusing on prevention and health rather than punishment. She also reflects on how these reforms erode trust in government commitments to Treaty, illustrating her points with a powerful case study.

Sean Kelly, a writer and author of the Quarterly Essay 'The Good Fight — What Does Labor Stand For?', dives deep into the often-hidden dynamics of the Albanese government and the Labor Party's current identity. He explores the surprising absence of internal debate and ideological clarity, questioning if unity has come at the cost of authentic beliefs. With a focus on significant policies like universal childcare and renewable energy, Kelly discusses whether the government's cautious, incremental approach truly benefits their legacy or stifles progress.

Writer and 7am co-host Daniel James joins to discuss the alarming rise of neo-Nazi activity in Australia. He recounts the violent attack on Camp Sovereignty, a sacred site for First Nations people, and explains its significance. Daniel highlights how recent rallies have legitimized these extremists, placing communities at risk. He delves into the need for proper classification of these acts as terrorism, and critiques the political and social media responses. The deep trauma inflicted on victims and the community is also a vital part of the conversation.

Karen Middleton, a seasoned press gallery journalist and political commentator, delves into the Liberal Party's recent decision to scrap net zero. She reveals the internal divisions among conservative MPs, signaling a leadership crisis for Sussan Ley. Middleton explores the party's shift towards a technology-led emissions reduction strategy while emphasizing the electoral risks of alienating key voting blocs. She critiques Ley's leadership style, highlighting the challenges of guiding a fractious party amid rising pressures and the implications for democracy.

In this discussion, lawyer and advocate Judy Courtin, known for her dedication to representing survivors of child sexual abuse, tackles the High Court's controversial decision favoring the Catholic Church. She delves into the Church's claim of non-employment of priests and the resulting legal ramifications. Judy highlights the recent ACT legislation aimed at overturning this decision, emphasizing its significance for survivors. She critiques the Church's adversarial tactics and calls for swift legislative action across states to restore justice for victims.