Politics Now
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The ABC's politics podcast, Politics Now, dives into the biggest political stories in Australia and around the world, giving you a balanced look inside the strategies and decisions behind the headlines. Whenever major news breaks, we'll be in your feed with coverage you can trust.
From Monday to Wednesday, Patricia Karvelas will chat to a rotating cast of the ABC's biggest political journalists about the latest news.
On Thursdays, 'The Party Room' with Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly will discuss the week's developments in depth with another journalist, and answer your questions.
On Saturdays, David Speers gets into the details of a major trend or issue with the help of an expert on 'Insiders On Background'.
From Monday to Wednesday, Patricia Karvelas will chat to a rotating cast of the ABC's biggest political journalists about the latest news.
On Thursdays, 'The Party Room' with Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly will discuss the week's developments in depth with another journalist, and answer your questions.
On Saturdays, David Speers gets into the details of a major trend or issue with the help of an expert on 'Insiders On Background'.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 4, 2025 • 12min
🚨What Hastie quitting means for Sussan Ley
Andrew Hastie's shock resignation from the Coalition frontbench has rattled the Liberal Party, citing deep divisions over immigration policy. His move signals a complex shift towards party renewal, with tensions between targeting right-wing voters and centrist audiences. The discussion touches on global centre-right trends influencing local dynamics, as well as the role of James Patterson in restoring unity. The political landscape is poised for change as Sussan Ley's leadership comes under scrutiny amidst these unfolding events.
Oct 3, 2025 • 19min
Will Palestinians support Trump's peace plan? | Insiders on Background
Dr. Omar Awadala, the Deputy Foreign Minister of the Palestinian Authority, shares insights on the Trump peace plan. He emphasizes the Palestinian Authority's welcome of a ceasefire focus to alleviate humanitarian crises. Awadala argues for detailed guarantees from the U.S., particularly regarding Israeli withdrawal. He highlights the need for international recognition of Palestinian statehood and dismisses Netanyahu's objections. Additionally, he discusses the role of Hamas and the expectation for a protective international mission, all hinging on U.S. enforcement for success.
10 snips
Oct 2, 2025 • 32min
Is Australia more than a middle power?
Matthew Knott, Foreign Affairs and National Security correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, joins the discussion on Australia's evolving global role. He explores Prime Minister Albanese's recent international trip, highlighting Australia's increased ambition in Middle East diplomacy. Knott critiques Albanese's speech at the UK Labour Conference for its partisan tone. He also discusses the implications of international relationships, including AUKUS and social media initiatives, amid rising global complexities.
Oct 1, 2025 • 22min
Is Labor putting out the housing fire or fanning the flames?
The Prime Minister returns home to tackle Australia’s housing crisis, questioning if current measures are genuine fixes. Discussion revolves around a 5% deposit guarantee for first-home buyers and whether it truly addresses the housing shortage. The podcast dives into topics like rising construction costs, labor shortages, and fairness for young buyers. Political reactions from the Coalition and Greens highlight differing views on supply and demand, while the ambitious target of 1.2 million homes raises skepticism about feasibility.
Sep 30, 2025 • 27min
Trump has a plan for peace. Will it work?
Olivia Caisley, Acting Defence Correspondent at ABC, joins to dissect Trump’s ambitious 20-point peace plan with Netanyahu aimed at resolving the Gaza conflict. They examine key elements like a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal, debating its feasibility. Olivia also dives into Australia’s diplomatic stance on Palestine and the recent Optus outage—highlighting its impact on emergency services and public frustration. The discussion captures the intertwining of international diplomacy and domestic politics, making for a thought-provoking dialogue.
Sep 29, 2025 • 28min
Albanese and Starmer stare down populism
Anthony Albanese's recent UK trip highlighted democratic resilience amid rising populism. His speech at the Labour Party conference sparked debate on political diplomacy. The hosts explore how his visit ties into broader strategies against right-wing momentum in Australia. They also examine the Liberal Party's identity crisis, the impact of teal independents, and potential trade tensions from US pharmaceutical tariffs. Meanwhile, household financial struggles loom large against improving budget figures.
22 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 21min
Alastair Campbell on Trump: "What the f is he talking about?" | Insiders On Background
Alastair Campbell, former communications director to Tony Blair and a prominent political commentator, dives into the challenges faced by progressives in the Trump era. He emphasizes the need for proactive ideas to counter far-right narratives. Alastair critiques Trump's unpredictable speeches, revealing their global implications. He discusses the rise of far-right Christian nationalism and the struggles of leaders like Keir Starmer. With keen insights on diplomatic approaches to Trump and the importance of strategic alliances, Campbell urges progressive response to rising hard-right politics.
Sep 25, 2025 • 42min
Albanese and the brave new world order
Michelle Grattan, an experienced political journalist and Chief Political Correspondent at The Conversation, joins the discussion to unearth Australia's evolving foreign policy. She delves into Anthony Albanese's bold stance on recognizing Palestine and how he balances growing ties with Europe against maintaining rapport with the U.S. Grattan also tackles the impact of a viral moment involving Liberal MP Andrew Hastie and explores the tensions within the party as leadership aspirations simmer under the surface, making for an engaging political analysis.
Sep 24, 2025 • 22min
Albanese and Trump lock in a date
A significant meeting between Donald Trump and Anthony Albanese is scheduled for next month in Washington. The conversation explores whether this Oval Office sit-down is a strategic move for Albanese, weighing the prestige against potential risks. In addition, they dissect the implications of Trump's recent UN speech, including shifts on key issues. Amid these geopolitical tensions, the podcast also discusses Australia's environmental commitments and how European leaders are stepping in to fill gaps in US leadership.
Sep 23, 2025 • 28min
Has Sussan Ley gone 'rogue' on Palestine?
Sussan Ley's controversial move to revoke Australia's recognition of Palestinian statehood is at the center of the discussion. As she reaches out to US Republicans, the implications for foreign policy and national unity are debated. Meanwhile, the conversation shifts to the Optus outage and its impact on emergency services, highlighting the need for better infrastructure. With tensions rising in Australian politics, the hosts dissect the ramifications of Ley's stance and the broader diplomatic landscape.
