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
Feb 28, 2025 • 26min
What is China doing off Australia's coast? || Insiders On Background
Richard McGregor, a Senior Fellow for East Asia at the Lowy Institute, shares his insights on recent Chinese military activities off Australia’s coast, raising alarms as the country faces an election. He delves into China's growing naval power, its advanced technologies, and implications for regional security. The conversation also highlights communication gaps during military exercises and discusses how Australia might navigate these challenges, especially with the AUKUS alliance amidst geopolitical shifts and economic dependencies on critical minerals.
4 snips
Feb 28, 2025 • 13min
Question Time: Election strategies and Dutton's finances || The Party Room
Can political parties afford to take risks with their campaigns? The debate heats up as the current government faces scrutiny over past financial decisions, particularly Peter Dutton's controversial bank share holdings. Also discussed is the Coalition's unified voting bloc status and the impact of strategic electoral differences. As the political landscape shifts, the challenges of appealing to younger voters and the complexities of controversial proposals, like nuclear energy, reveal the intricate dynamics at play in Australia’s politics.
8 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 33min
Are voters buying Albo's sales pitch? || The Party Room
Paul Sakkal, a Federal Political Correspondent with the SMH and The Age, joins the discussion on the Albanese Government's struggles to connect with voters despite increased spending initiatives. They explore the contentious bipartisan agreement to boost Medicare funding and the contrasting strategies of each party. Polling reveals slipping support for Labor, driving conversations about voter disconnection and party credibility. The podcast also touches on the ongoing housing crisis and the complexities of addressing community concerns amid political maneuvers.
Feb 26, 2025 • 0sec
Are Dutton's finances fair game in this campaign?
The podcast dives into the political fallout regarding Peter Dutton's share purchases, with Labor accusing him of unusual timing while Dutton defends against what he calls a smear campaign. It also covers Treasurer Jim Chalmers' diplomatic efforts in Washington, relating to trade tensions and tariffs. Amid rising tensions, the presence of a Chinese flotilla in Australian waters raises serious political concerns. The discussion shifts to the government's defense spending and the significance of unwavering alliances with the U.S. as elections loom.
12 snips
Feb 24, 2025 • 19min
How the PM answered Australia's questions on Q+A
The discussion reveals the Prime Minister's candid responses during a recent Q&A, tackling pressing issues like the housing crisis and cost-of-living concerns. Engaging stories from the audience highlight the importance of social cohesion and safety for minorities. The episode captures the balance between serious political topics and lighthearted moments, including a surprising discussion about plastic straws. It emphasizes the value of democratic engagement in addressing community needs and gauging public sentiment ahead of the upcoming election.
Feb 24, 2025 • 18min
Has Peter Dutton ended a campaign fight over Medicare?
The debate over Medicare funding heats up as the Prime Minister unveils a significant boost, only for Peter Dutton to mirror his stance. Voter concerns about healthcare are rising, especially among the younger population. Polls reflect diverging trajectories for the leaders, with one suggesting a drop for Labor and the other showing gains for Albanese. The discussion delves into trust in political parties regarding health policies and how these dynamics might influence the 2025 election.
Feb 21, 2025 • 26min
Has Trump sold out Ukraine? || Insiders On Background
Vassal Moroschnchenko, Ukraine's ambassador to Australia, passionately defends his country amid escalating tensions with Russia and complex U.S. relations. He discusses the absence of Ukraine in crucial peace talks and critiques President Trump's comments on Ukrainian leadership. The ambassador highlights the importance of robust U.S. support in the fight against Russian aggression and the broader implications for sovereignty and democracy worldwide. Additionally, he touches on Australia's diplomatic efforts and the harrowing story of captured Australian fighter Oscar Jenkins.
Feb 21, 2025 • 18min
Has the PM looked 'weak' on Trump?
Tom Crowley, an insightful ABC journalist known for his sharp political analysis, delves into pressing issues of the week. He discusses the implications of Donald Trump's comments on Ukraine and how Australia's PM, Anthony Albanese, has approached these tensions. The conversation also covers the Reserve Bank's rate cut, Clive Palmer's new political party, and the complex balance Australia faces with China, especially amid military exercises in the region. A riveting exploration of politics in a changing world!
Feb 20, 2025 • 32min
Spy chief’s warning on eve of election || The Party Room
Alan Kohler, an ABC finance expert, shares his insights on the impacts of a recent interest rate cut and its political implications. The conversation digs into whether this economic shift can sway voters as the election looms. Kohler highlights ASIO’s chilling threat assessment regarding foreign interference and plots, emphasizing the intersection of national security and economic concerns. Additionally, the discussion touches on the Labor Party's strategies amidst declining popularity and the broader implications of social media on election integrity.
Feb 19, 2025 • 16min
Clive Palmer in a Trump wig?
Clive Palmer has launched a new political party inspired by Donald Trump, stirring controversy and debate about its impact on democracy. The recent interest rate cut has sparked varied reactions from the government and opposition, framing their economic narratives. The discussion dives into Palmer's ambitions and past failures, alongside the pressing issues of the cost of living crisis. Insightful analysis reveals the election dynamics at play, particularly regarding campaign spending and public perception of financial relief measures.
