7am

Michael Ondaatje, the Sri Lankan-born Canadian essayist, poet, and Booker Prize winner, shares insights on his latest poetry collection, 'A Year of Last Things.' He reflects on the joy of rediscovering poetry at 80, describing writing as a personal journey through memory and grief. Ondaatje discusses the physicality of the writing process, his emotional experiences during the pandemic, and how poetry serves as a connection to loss. He emphasizes the evolution of his craft, highlighting the intimacy and exploration found in the act of creating.

Nick McKim, a passionate advocate for economic justice and spokesperson for the Greens, argues for lower interest rates and demands government intervention in the Reserve Bank’s decisions. The discussion reveals rifts within the Greens about this bold stance, while questioning the independence of the Reserve Bank. McKim highlights the party's strategy to resonate with younger voters facing housing challenges, and addresses the broader implications of their demands, stirring the ongoing debate about monetary policy in Australia.

David Crisafulli, a prominent political figure in Queensland, discusses recent changes in youth crime legislation. He explains the controversial decision allowing courts access to young offenders' full criminal histories, despite criticism from legal experts who argue it won't prevent crime. The episode dives into personal stories, highlighting the struggles faced by homeless youth and the harsh conditions in adult detention. Crisafulli emphasizes the need for systemic reforms to address the root causes of youth crime and advocate for supportive measures instead of punitive ones.

Tim Costello, a chief advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, shares his insights from over three decades of lobbying for gambling reforms. He reveals how the Albanese government tried to silence him with a non-disclosure agreement, marking a troubling trend of using NDAs to stifle advocacy voices. The discussion delves into the tension between government secrecy and the need for transparent public policy dialogue. Costello raises concerns about how such practices threaten meaningful consultations and the broader implications for civil society.

Helen Thomas, a journalist and author known for her work on the Easey Street murders, discusses one of Melbourne's most chilling unsolved cases. She delves into the tragic story of Suzanne Armstrong and Susan Bartlett, whose brutal killings shocked the community in 1977. The podcast highlights the recent arrest of a suspect long overlooked, the evolution of forensic techniques, and the profound impact on victims' families. Thomas shares insights into how this haunting case has shaped perceptions of safety and violence against women in Melbourne.

Peter Dutton, the Australian politician known for his recent foray into TikTok, discusses his motives and challenges in engaging a younger audience. He reflects on his uninspiring first post and the broader trend of politicians on social media. Special correspondent Jason Koutsoukis analyzes TikTok's dual role as a platform for political connection and concern, especially regarding its Chinese ownership. The conversation highlights the ethical implications and potential political embarrassments as Australian politicians navigate this digital landscape.

Mary Beard, a celebrated classicist and author known for her impactful works like 'SPQR,' shares her insights on Ancient Rome. She reflects on how a pivotal Latin phrase ignited her passion for classics. Beard also discusses the societal challenges of classical scholarship and the misconceptions surrounding Roman emperors. Delving into storytelling, she highlights how popular narratives can distort historical realities. Lastly, she explores the enduring wisdom of Marcus Aurelius and its relevance to modern self-help.

Explore the intriguing saga of the Ladies Lounge at MONA, designed as a playful commentary on women's rights but now facing legal challenges for discrimination. The discussion highlights the art installation’s gendered exclusivity and the court's ruling. Legal complexities unfold as parties debate what constitutes discrimination versus artistic expression. The authenticity of artworks within the lounge raises questions about representation in the art world, shedding light on broader societal inequalities.

Harini Rathnakumar, a Tamil child refugee, dreams of studying medicine in Australia. She shares her journey from India, facing perilous challenges and family separation. Despite her aspirations, Harini confronts harsh realities, including international tuition fees of nearly $100,000 and being disenrolled just months before graduation. The discussion highlights the systemic barriers asylum seekers face, their emotional struggles, and the broader immigration issues impacting their futures in a new country.

Bill Shorten, the new vice-chancellor of the University of Canberra and former politician, shares insights on the lucrative world of university leadership. He discusses his shift from hopes of prime minister to a salary that could surpass the PM's by threefold. The conversation dives into the high remuneration of vice-chancellors and their increasing reliance on international student fees due to government funding cuts. Shorten addresses the challenges in Australian higher education, the impact of policy changes, and the growing corporate influence on universities.