7am

Rupert, someone who wields enormous influence over Australia’s political landscape, struggled to step out of his father's shadow. He launched the first national broadsheet and helped elect the progressive leader Gough Whitlam. Despite financial struggles, Rupert kept The Australian newspaper running and aimed for political influence in Canberra. His support for Whitlam led to his papers endorsing him and making a financial commitment. Rupert's ambition to acquire the Melbourne Herald and Weekly Times created loyalty within the company and had a negative impact on democracy in Australia.

The podcast discusses the devastating impact of the Israel-Hamas war on children in Gaza, with at least 4000 child deaths. Aid agencies call for a ceasefire, but Israel demands the release of hostages and removal of Hamas. The dire situation in Gaza includes lack of medical care, endangered premature infants, and long-term effects on children. Disparities in casualty figures and emphasis on protecting children's hopes and dreams are highlighted. The podcast stresses the need for a peaceful solution and support for traumatized children.

Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony Albanese, met with President of China, Xi Jinping, to discuss trade relations, potential tariff reductions, and address human rights concerns. The meeting highlights the desire of both leaders to restore ties and improve diplomatic relations. The podcast explores the changes in the Australia-China relationship, the collaboration on climate change, and China's interest in improving the economic relationship with Australia.

Renters in Australia are facing a housing crisis with increasing rents and poor living conditions. A recent High Court judgement has the potential to change the rights of renters nationwide. The podcast discusses the shocking conditions of Ms Young's rental home in the NT, the government's controversial response to housing conditions, and the complexities of rental tendencies. It also explores the impact and significance of the high court decision on renters' rights and the eight-year fight by a community of indigenous renters.

Monique Ryan, Independent member for Kooyong, discusses Australia's efforts to free Julian Assange and the importance of press freedom. The podcast explores Julian Assange's current conditions, charges against him, and his pursuit of truth and transparency.

Explore the rise of Advance, a right-wing campaigning group in Australia, their controversial tactics during the 2019 election, and their transformation into a major political force. Discover their strategies, funding, and infrastructure, as well as the challenges of holding them accountable for spreading lies.

A decade-long project of erecting a towering Christian cross in a remote Aboriginal community has attracted controversy and cost $2 million. Hollywood star Mel Gibson is involved. The monument is seen as a symbol of hope and a tourism attraction by some Indigenous people. The upcoming lighting ceremony is eagerly anticipated by locals. The podcast explores the history and impact of Christianity on First Nations peoples. A visit to the monument includes sermons, prayers, and a performance of Christian songs.

In this podcast, the childhood experiences of Rupert Murdoch are described, highlighting his early traits as a media mogul. The unpublished manuscript unveils his campaign to save an innocent man's life. The narrator's experience working at Rupert's Australian newspapers and the political nature and ruthless streak of Rupert are explored. The chapter also discusses the betrayal suffered by Rowan, who was instrumental in Rupert's life. The impact of Rupert's pursuit of power and wealth on his contentment is also discussed.

Paul Bongiorno, columnist for The Saturday Paper, discusses the lost bipartisanship over the conflict in the Middle East among Australian politicians. The podcast explores the divide and concerns about growing hostility towards Jewish and Islamic communities. It also delves into the political motivations behind Peter Dutton's rhetoric on Gaza, the breakdown of bipartisanship, and Asio's concerns about community tensions.

Ian Parmeter, former Australian ambassador to Lebanon during Hezbollah's conflict with Israel, discusses the history of Hamas and its current role in governing Gaza. The podcast explores the difficulties in removing Hamas from Gaza and the lack of a clear solution. It also discusses the potential outcomes for governing Gaza and highlights concerns about international humanitarian law.