

The Daily Aus
The Daily Aus
This is a daily news podcast for young people in Australia. Join The Daily Aus team every weekday morning as we cover the news in your language. We’re a newsroom of young journalists, delivering news for young people.
TDA is completely independent. We are not owned by any larger media company.
TDA is completely independent. We are not owned by any larger media company.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 5, 2025 • 17min
The Sydney Sweeney controversy, explained
We want to make sure TDA's content remains relevant and useful. Fill out this 3 minute survey to tell us more about you! A new American Eagle ad featuring actress Sydney Sweeney has sparked controversy over what critics say are references to white supremacist messaging. The ad has divided opinion online and drawn responses from major political figures, including U.S. President Donald Trump. Today we're breaking down everything you need to know about this viral ad: What happened, why people are upset, the political response and the ongoing fallout. Hosts: Billi FitzSimons and Emma GillespieProducer: Orla Maher Want to support The Daily Aus? That's so kind! The best way to do that is to click ‘follow’ on Spotify or Apple and to leave us a five-star review. We would be so grateful. The Daily Aus is a media company focused on delivering accessible and digestible news to young people. We are completely independent. Want more from TDA?Subscribe to The Daily Aus newsletterSubscribe to The Daily Aus’ YouTube Channel Have feedback for us?We’re always looking for new ways to improve what we do. If you’ve got feedback, we’re all ears. Tell us here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 5, 2025 • 5min
Headlines: Chinese national accused of spying in Canberra
Today's headlines: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has spoken with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas for the first time since the early stages of the current conflict in Gaza. A Chinese national with permanent residency has been charged with foreign interference in Canberra. Former President of Brazil, Jair Bolsonaro, has been placed under house arrest by the country’s Supreme Court. And today’s good news, scientists have developed a breakthrough vaccine to protect livestock from foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Hosts: Emma Gillespie and Billi FitzSimonsProducer: Emma Gillespie Want to support The Daily Aus? That's so kind! The best way to do that is to click ‘follow’ on Spotify or Apple and to leave us a five-star review. We would be so grateful. The Daily Aus is a media company focused on delivering accessible and digestible news to young people. We are completely independent. Want more from TDA?Subscribe to The Daily Aus newsletterSubscribe to The Daily Aus’ YouTube Channel Have feedback for us?We’re always looking for new ways to improve what we do. If you’ve got feedback, we’re all ears. Tell us here.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aug 4, 2025 • 20min
Should WFH be a legal right?
A new proposal in Victoria could make working from home a legal right for employees. This move is said to enhance productivity and assist those with caregiving duties. However, the plan has sparked debate over its legality and practicality, with differing views from unions and political groups. The potential creation of a two-tiered workforce is also a hot topic, along with concerns about how this will affect both urban and rural economies. The discussion highlights the complex interaction between state and federal workplace rights in Australia.

Aug 4, 2025 • 4min
Headlines: First woman appointed to AFP Commissioner role
A historic milestone as Australia welcomes its first female Commissioner of the Federal Police, a move that promises significant impacts on national security. Meanwhile, a troubling investigation reveals critical failures in Queensland’s forensic DNA testing, raising concerns about justice. In tragic news, over 140 migrants sadly perished when a boat capsized near Yemen. Yet, amidst the sorrow, a bright spark emerges with Australian swimmer Meg Harris clinching gold in the women's 50m freestyle at the world championships.

Aug 3, 2025 • 12min
Is the economy... calming down?
Greg Jericho, Chief Economist of the Australia Institute, dives into the latest inflation data, revealing it’s at its lowest in four years. He discusses the implications for interest rates, hinting at an anticipated cut by the Reserve Bank of Australia. The conversation also highlights the complex relationship between falling inflation and the persistent cost of living burden, especially for younger generations. Jericho further unpacks how cash rate decisions impact consumer borrowing and examines Australia’s economic outlook amidst global tariff changes.

Aug 2, 2025 • 16min
Wait, where does our tap water come from?
Ever wondered where your tap water really comes from? The hosts dive into the water cycle, revealing the journey from rain to your faucet. They unravel common myths about drinking water sources and discuss the role of dams. Climate change impacts are examined alongside cutting-edge solutions like desalination. Plus, taste variations across regions are revealed, influenced by minerals and treatment. The importance of chlorine for safety is highlighted, alongside global efforts to ensure clean water access for all.

Aug 1, 2025 • 4min
Headlines: Australia escapes new tariffs
The U.S. has announced new tariff updates while keeping Australia’s at a steady 10%. Controversial changes to the Northern Territory's Youth Justice Act have sparked criticism, especially regarding the reintroduction of spit hoods. In sports news, Mollie O’Callaghan equals Ian Thorpe's record for the most gold medals won by an Australian swimmer. And in a heartwarming twist, the world's oldest baby has been born from an embryo that was frozen since 1994, showcasing remarkable advances in reproductive technology.

Jul 31, 2025 • 11min
Your HECS debt questions, answered
A recent government move has slashed HECS student debts by 20%, causing a buzz among borrowers. The discussion explains how this discount affects those who have already paid off their debts and clarifies what HECS and HELP debts entail. Potential refunds and the timeline for adjustments are also examined, with insights into how these legislative changes will ease repayment burdens, particularly for lower-income earners. Listeners are encouraged to act quickly to maximize benefits from the new policies.

Jul 31, 2025 • 4min
Headlines: Parliament passes 20% HECS cut
The Australian Senate has just voted to cut student debt by 20%, a significant relief for many. Meanwhile, a distressing case in Sydney reveals a man facing charges over child abuse material at several care services. On the international front, Canada has taken steps toward recognizing Palestine as a state, following similar moves by the UK and France. Amidst these serious topics, there's a bright spot: swimmer Mollie O'Callaghan has triumphed, winning gold in the women's 200m freestyle at the world championships in Singapore.

Jul 30, 2025 • 17min
YouTube vs the Fed Govt
Australia's government is expanding its social media ban to include YouTube for users under 16, following pressure from the eSafety commissioner. Originally exempt, this change has sparked criticism and potential legal action from Google. The podcast delves into the implications of these regulations for young users and the challenges of educating them about online safety. Additionally, upcoming legislation points to stricter compliance for social media platforms, raising questions about age verification technology and its ramifications.


