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
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.
Sep 22, 2025 • 25min
Australia splits with US to recognise Palestine
Australia has officially recognized Palestine as a sovereign state, stirring diplomatic discussions and raising questions about its effects. The move puts the country at odds with the US, sparking speculation about potential meetings between leaders. Meanwhile, the Optus outage, linked to tragic incidents, has prompted an investigation and scrutiny over communication failures. Additionally, the political landscape sees shifts with Andrew Hastie's controversial social media activity as the Coalition navigates fundraising and leadership challenges.
19 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 18min
Matt Kean urging opposition to back govt's 2035 emissions target || Insiders: On Background
Matt Kean, Chair of the Climate Change Authority and former New South Wales Treasurer, dives into Australia’s ambitious plan to cut emissions by 62 to 70% by 2035. He discusses how shifting to renewables can lower electricity bills and support the rise of electric vehicles. Kean also emphasizes the importance of land use and carbon removal strategies, urging collaboration with farmers for better soil health. His insights reveal the critical need for stable policy to attract investment and drive meaningful change.
7 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 40min
Labor unveils 2035 climate targets. What next?
Tom McIlroy, Political Editor at Guardian Australia, joins the discussion to delve into the Albanese Government's ambitious 2035 climate targets, set between 62-70%. He highlights the resurgence of climate debates within the Coalition, focusing on Sussan Ley's stance against pursuing net zero at any cost. The conversation shifts to Ley's economic vision, exploring internal tensions among party members. Additionally, McIlroy analyzes Albanese's Pacific diplomacy and upcoming UN engagements, including key issues like Palestinian recognition and the AUKUS agreement.
Sep 17, 2025 • 19min
Did Trump just confirm a meeting with Albo?
Donald Trump recently criticized an Australian journalist's questions, suggesting they could harm Australia, which led to speculation about his upcoming meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The discussion dives into the intricacies of international relations as Albanese navigates a failed defense treaty with Papua New Guinea. The hosts also explore the complexities of diplomacy in Trump's world, using literary references to illustrate how small gestures between leaders can carry significant weight. Will these diplomatic tensions signal more challenges ahead?
Sep 16, 2025 • 26min
Will Ley survive the climate wars?
Joining the discussion is Raf Epstein from ABC Radio in Melbourne, known for his insightful political commentary. The podcast delves into the internal discord within the Coalition over climate policies, as key members threaten resignations over the emissions reduction target. Raf and Brett Worthington dissect Sussan Ley's leadership challenges and the potential fallout from these divisions. They also touch on the broader implications for the Liberal Party and the nation's climate strategy amid rising economic pressures and global responsibilities.
