The Briefing

Headlines: 37 bills listed as “priority” on final scheduled sitting day, Lidia Thorpe suspended from the Senate, US to start work immediately on new Gaza ceasefire proposal and the TikTok Awards 2024 were held in Sydney overnight. Deep Dive: Next year’s election will be the first in Australia’s history where there’ll be more Millennials and Gen Z than boomers at the ballot box. Who will be influencing their vote? Celebrity endorsements seem to be losing their potency – despite support from Beyoncé, Taylor Swift and Lady Gaga, presidential hopeful Kamala Harris could not find the votes to give her the top job in the recent US election. Does that reflect a gap in the election market about to be filled by social media and influencers? And is that a good or bad thing? Konrad Benjamin doesn't love the term influencer – but he’s the host and creator behind Punters Politics, a YouTube channel that aims to help “navigate the divisive world of Australian politics on a quest to make it simple for the every day punter”. In this episode of The Briefing, he joins Bension Siebert to unpack the power of the influencer, and how much of a say he thinks they will have on the 2025 vote here in Aus.  Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s been a major development this week for the appeal hopes of one of the country’s most notorious criminals. Tony Mokbel, who became a household name during Melbourne’s gangland wars in the early noughties, could soon walk free, after a judge ruled his lawyer had perverted the course of justice by feeding information to the police in the lead up to his arrest. So how likely is it that his case, and a number of others, will be overturned? Veteran crime journalist Adam Shand joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on this episode of The Briefing to explain. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Fleur Brown, Chief Industry Affairs Officer at the Australian Retailers Association, shares her expertise on navigating Black Friday sales. She discusses how this American shopping tradition has firmly taken root in Australia, driving significant consumer spending. Fleur shares tips on identifying genuine bargains amidst aggressive marketing tactics. She emphasizes the importance of being savvy and cautious to avoid being misled by inflated discounts, ensuring shoppers make the most out of their hard-earned dollars this shopping season.

This discussion dives into the heated debate over international student caps in Australia, as politicians clash about immigration policies. They explore the economic contributions of these students against the backdrop of pressing housing issues. The conversation reveals the complexities of new governmental proposals affecting student admissions and the resultant political divides. It also highlights research on how international students influence housing prices, offering surprising insights into their actual impact on availability and costs.

Bishop Tim Harris, a long-time advocate for the Bali Nine, discusses the complexities surrounding the potential return of this group of Australians imprisoned for heroin smuggling. He shares insights into ongoing negotiations between Australia and Indonesia, emphasizing the emotional toll on families. Harris argues for a compassionate approach to repatriation and addresses the broader implications of justice and rehabilitation. The conversation also touches on the cultural impact of this case and its significance in Australian society.

A dramatic story unfolds as a Lithuanian man is trapped underwater for over 20 hours during a white water rafting adventure. Rescuers faced hypothermia risks while trying to free him, leading to an extreme decision to amputate his leg. Experts discuss the unique challenges of river rescues, emphasizing the dangers of foot entrapment. Essential safety measures for river activities are unpacked, highlighting the difference between guided tours and solo adventures. The importance of emergency preparedness and relevant training for rafting guides is also stressed.

Headlines: Massive few days ahead in Canberra for final sitting week of 2024, 170 arrested in Newcastle port protest and Mary Fowler steps back from Matildas citing mental fatigue Deep Dive: It’s called 'Pink Cocaine', but it usually contains zero cocaine, and it’s been linked to a series of deaths – including that of One Direction star Liam Payne. So what is it, really? And if you come across it on a night out over the weekend, what do you need to know about it, and how to keep yourself safe? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Dr Amie Hayley from the International Council of Drugs, Alcohol and Traffic Safety (ICADTS) to find out. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Osher Günsberg, a renowned television personality and mental health advocate, shares his personal struggles with chronic pain, psychiatric conditions, and alcoholism. He discusses his passion for sauna therapy as a self-care method and reflects on the emotional complexities of fame. Osher dives into the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, urging empathy and actionable support. He also introduces 'Finch,' a self-care app featuring a virtual pet, and delights in the joy of discovering new music and literature, emphasizing the importance of self-care and connection.

In a deeply personal journey, Tom uncovers his long-suspected autism diagnosis and reflects on its profound implications for his life. Discussions highlight the importance of support from family and friends, and how an autism diagnosis reshapes one's identity and social interactions. The speakers emphasize the need for open conversations about neurodiversity, advocating for inclusive workplaces and environments. Practical initiatives, like sensory rooms, are explored as vital steps toward nurturing acceptance and support for neurodivergent individuals.

Jon Ronson, a British-American journalist and author renowned for exploring the fringes of society, delves into the intriguing concept of psychopathy. He questions whether our global community is growing more psychopathic or simply misusing the term. The discussions cover the psychological impact of public figures like Trump and Musk, the dangers of social media on mental health, and the emotional toll of political engagement. Ronson invites listeners to reflect on the nuances of normality and the potential influence of psychopathic traits in our lives.