The Briefing

Wednesday Headlines: Peter Dutton wins third leaders' debate, the coalition to announce increased defence spending, details of Pope Francis' funeral revealed, NZ bill to define men and women by their biology, 25 Australian swimmers may have been robbed of Olympic medals and the Queensland twins going viral.  Deep Dive:  Child sex offenders are among the most reviled criminals in our society—and now, Opposition Leader Peter Dutton is vowing to trial a national public register if elected, aiming to give families more access to information and keep kids safe.  But would it actually work? And what are the risks of making this kind of information public?  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with Akhim Dev—documentary and podcast maker behind the award-winning Children in the Pictures—who spent years embedded with police investigating online child exploitation to unpack it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this discussion, Joel Hodge, National Head of the School of Theology at ACU, shares insights on Pope Francis’s impactful legacy as a progressive leader. He delves into the complexities of choosing the next Pope, highlighting the influence of increased diversity among cardinal electors. The conversation explores how Pope Francis's outreach to marginalized communities and his commitment to inclusivity have reshaped the Church. Hodge also speculates on potential candidates from regions experiencing a surge in Catholicism, particularly Southeast Asia.

Tuesday Headlines: Pope Francis' cause of death revealed, early voting now open, Australia records deadliest Easter weekend of drownings, new calls for US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to resign, and John Cena is coming down under!  Deep Dive: While most Aussies still vote red or blue, a small but significant group of independents—dubbed the Teals—are carving out space in Federal politics.  One of them is Zoe Daniel, the former journalist who flipped a safe Liberal seat in 2022 and is now running for re-election.   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with MP Zoe Daniel about the key issues this election, how independent the Teals really are and their plan to hold the major parties to account.Further listening from the headlines: What happens when the Pope dies? The power games begin is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.Top secret war plans sent to journalist by mistake is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this special election rewind we are joined by Julia Gillard, the 27th Prime Minister of Australia and our first and only female in the top job.  In this chat with Jamila Rizvi from 2020, Julia unpacks her famous misogyny speech of 2012, how ultra macho leadership styles are letting us down during the pandemic, and her book Women in Leadership. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy Campbell, Features Editor of Esquire Australia, dives into the intriguing link between fashion choices and economic trends. She explains how practical styles like jorts and the rise of 'quiet luxury' could signal an impending recession. The conversation touches on concepts like the hemline index and the lipstick effect, demonstrating how clothing spending reflects broader economic sentiments. Campbell also discusses the psychological impact of small purchases and how style shifts reveal consumer behavior during downturns.

Peter Rowsthorn, the beloved Brett from Kath and Kim, shares his comedic journey and return to the Melbourne Comedy Festival after decades. He humorously discusses aging disgracefully and reflects on almost becoming a truckie during the pandemic. With insights on navigating fame and performing in musicals, Peter opens up about personal growth and the emotional rewards of comedy. He also explores the charm of little free libraries, emphasizing community connections through shared books.

Scott Morrison, the 30th Prime Minister of Australia and author of "Plans For Your Good," reflects on his tumultuous tenure, including navigating the COVID crisis and significant controversies. He discusses the intersection of faith and politics, revealing how belief shaped his leadership approach. Morrison also addresses pressing socio-political issues like the rising cost of living and violence against women, while sharing his personal journey of repentance and resilience. Dive into a candid conversation that explores legacy, challenges, and the impact of faith in governance.

Friday Headlines: Opposition Leader clarifies he believed in climate change, Rise in DV over Easter, Great White shark concerns for an Adelaide beach and Trump meets with Italy's PM. Deep Dive: From big policy promises to viral missteps, election campaigns serve up drama, theatre and the occasional meme-worthy moment. But what’s it really like behind the scenes? In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by News Corp federal political reporter Madura McCormack, who’s been following the 2025 campaign trail. She shares what it’s like travelling with the press pack, the moments that didn’t make headlines—and what they reveal about the parties vying for your vote.Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is the great Australian dream of owning a home over?  In this special election edition of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Federal Housing Minister Clare O’Neil to unpack Labor’s record on housing, missed targets, and what the government plans to do next to solve a housing and rental crisis that’s been decades in the making. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Spicy second leaders' debate between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition leader Peter Dutton, Australians trust in the US lowest in 20 years, Swedish teenager in Australia charged with contract killings, tropical Cyclone off WA expected to make landfall over the weekend and lab grown chicken nuggets breakthrough! Deep Dive: The rate of Australians travelling to the US has dropped to its lowest level since the pandemic, with Donald Trump’s return to the White House sparking a wave of concern among international visitors. Countries like China, Germany, Portugal and the UK have issued warnings for citizens heading to the country —so why hasn’t and should Australia do the same? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith speaks with Griffith University’s Dr Lee Morgenbesser, who recently cancelled his own trip, about the risks, the politics, and what it means for Australia.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.