Brendan Coates, Housing and Economic Security Program Director at Grattan Institute, sheds light on Australia's housing crisis, where homes cost eight times the median income. He discusses the urgent need for housing reform amid rising rents, advocating for changes in tenancy laws and the role of institutional investment. Coates emphasizes the emotional toll on citizens and the impact of political failures, urging comprehensive strategies to enhance affordability and accessibility. Voter frustrations and the shifting landscape are also key topics as elections draw near.

Nicholas Biddle, Head of the School of Politics and International Relations at ANU, shares insights on alarming voter dissatisfaction with the Albanese Government. He reveals that current levels of discontent echo those before the Morrison administration's fall. Economic worries, particularly inflation and cost of living, are key factors influencing public trust. Biddle also examines the link between educational background and political satisfaction, and delves into the loneliness crisis among young Australians, highlighting its impact on societal and political engagement.

Peter Martin, a Visiting Fellow at the Crawford School, and Shane Wright, Senior Economics Correspondent, dive into the economic hurdles Australians face ahead of the 2025 Federal Election. They discuss the impact of rising costs on voters' lives, especially as more people turn to food banks. The role of consumer sentiment in shaping political strategies is explored, alongside the varying economic messages from the government and opposition. Predictions about interest rate cuts and the disconnect between inflation and high prices stir a crucial conversation about political survival.

Kos Samaras, a political analyst and former Labor strategist, teams up with Tony Barry, a communications expert and former Liberal strategist, to delve into Australia’s tightening election race. They discuss the shifting political landscape in outer suburbs, highlighting the rise of independent candidates. The duo also explores the growing disconnect between voters and politicians and how recent referendum outcomes influence strategies. Additionally, they dissect economic challenges and voter sentiment, revealing the critical factors shaping the potential for a minority government.

Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent for The Conversation, offers sharp insights on Australia’s escalating anti-Semitic attacks, labeled by the Prime Minister as 'evil.' She discusses the contentious political responses, including criticism from the Opposition about the government's role in these events. The conversation also shifts to upcoming nuclear policy costings and a pivotal childcare policy announcement, reflecting election strategies amid economic pressures. Grattan highlights the need for political leaders to swiftly adapt to changing public sentiments.

Clare Armstrong, National Political Editor for News Corp, brings her sharp insights on the Australian political landscape. She discusses how Anthony Albanese's promise of support resonates amid economic challenges. Armstrong also delves into the shifting dynamics within the Labor Party, focusing on tensions over environmental policies. The episode explores how military compensation reforms are managed and highlights the growing influence of youth voters, particularly in relation to cryptocurrency in political discussions.

Australia's government is making headlines after passing 31 bills, including groundbreaking social media laws for those under 16. The debate centers on whether the global-leading ban can be enforced effectively. Political maneuvering is in full swing as elections loom, with tensions between lawmakers and social media companies intensifying. With a key moderate politician's exit, the landscape is shifting, raising questions about representation and future policies. Fasten your seatbelts; political dynamics are evolving rapidly!

In this engaging discussion, Paul Karp, Chief Political Correspondent at The Guardian Australia, dives into the chaos surrounding Senator Lidia Thorpe's suspension for a dramatic outburst with One Nation's Pauline Hanson. The conversation heats up as they analyze the shifting dynamics of racism in politics and the Albanese Government's struggle to pass critical reforms on the final sitting day. Key topics include the urgency of housing and gambling reforms, as well as the complexities of crossbench negotiations in a turbulent political landscape.

Mike Baird, the former Premier of New South Wales and CEO of the Susan McKinnon Foundation, dives into the complex landscape of political polarization and its effects on governance. He discusses how voter dissatisfaction is driving a rise in independent voting while emphasizing the need for leaders who prioritize integrity and evidence-based policies. Baird highlights the importance of community engagement and education in improving governance, as well as celebrating exemplary leaders who inspire trust and accountability in politics.

As the Albanese Government tries to ram its jam-packed agenda through parliament, speculation is mounting it could be the final sitting fortnight not just of the year — but before the election.It comes as Peter Dutton is squaring up for a fight on migration, refusing to support Labor's proposed international student caps, which he's labelled "a dogs breakfast". Anna Henderson, SBS Chief Political Correspondent joins Patricia Karvelas and Tom Crowley on The Party Room.Got a burning question?Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au