Politics Now
ABC News
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
Nov 24, 2025 • 26min
Net zero gains for Sussan Ley
The hosts dive into the Albanese Government's push for the EPBC environment laws as Parliament reconvenes. A new poll reveals a concerning 24% support for the Coalition, leading to a discussion on Sussan Ley's shaky leadership. They question if abandoning net zero actually swayed voters, especially within One Nation. Trade-offs in the EPBC bill pose challenges, particularly around native forest logging and emissions. The discussion wraps up with insights into internal party dynamics and the potential impact of energy prices on political strategies.
Nov 21, 2025 • 22min
Why miners want a deal done on new environment laws | Insiders On Background
Tanya Constable, the Head of the Minerals Council of Australia, dives into the Federal Government's push for new environmental laws aimed at speeding up approvals for critical minerals projects. She emphasizes the need for balance between environmental protection and development, advocating for a stringent national EPA while keeping assessments with accredited states. Tanya also discusses the industry's commitment to net zero by 2050 and the importance of addressing high energy costs. Lastly, she highlights Australia’s strong environmental standards and the potential of a US-Australia critical minerals deal.
20 snips
Nov 20, 2025 • 43min
Did the PM get his ideal COP outcome?
Melissa Clarke, a political commentator known for her insights on party dynamics, joins the discussion. They delve into the unexpected shift in Australia’s COP bid, now hosted by Türkiye, and explore the implications of Chris Bowen's presidency. The conversation turns to the Liberal Party's 'killing season,' leadership uncertainties, and internal tensions over net zero policies. They also analyze the Coalition's strategy of emphasizing immigration, reflecting on voter concerns and the impact on the political landscape.
Nov 19, 2025 • 20min
Labor’s COP out on science
Australia faces significant job cuts at CSIRO, raising concerns about a potential science brain drain. The Science Minister claims commitment to research, but the reality seems contradictory. Discussions arise over the nation's bid to host the next UN climate conference, with doubts about the government's seriousness. Political tensions also unfold regarding opposition strength and Liberal leadership instability. As the hosts unravel these pressing issues, they highlight the importance of curiosity-driven research and the broader implications for Australia's future.
12 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 30min
Another leader bites the dust
Australia is witnessing a leadership crisis, with major party leaders facing unexpected oustings, including the new Victorian Liberal leader, Jess Wilson. The hosts explore the implications of these shifts and whether they genuinely address deeper ideological rifts within the party. They dive into the contrasting strategies of the major political players, assessing if the Labor's pragmatic approach will outshine the disarray of the centre-right. The discussion also touches on the potential distraction from crucial issues like climate change as political drama unfolds.
Nov 17, 2025 • 35min
Sussan Ley is 'fighting for her political life'
Sussan Ley is under pressure as tensions rise within the Liberal Party. She faces criticism after policy concessions have jeopardized her leadership. Moderates are confused and frustrated with the party's unclear stance on net zero and coal funding. Discussions arise about Andrew Hastie as a potential alternative, appealing to moderates with fresh ideas. Ley's public performance is scrutinized, and there's concern over social media-driven policies. The hosts highlight the missed opportunities for the government amidst opposition turmoil.
9 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 18min
The long road to treaty | Insiders On Background
Ruben Berg, Co-chair of the First Peoples' Assembly of Victoria and a key negotiator in the treaty-making process, shares his insights on Australia's first treaty with Aboriginal people. He recounts the emotional moment of signing the treaty and the decade-long journey leading to this historic milestone. The conversation highlights the innovative Galangwaal framework, emphasizing accountability mechanisms and ongoing truth-telling efforts. Ruben also discusses political challenges, community consultation efforts, and the importance of tailored approaches for successful treaty processes.
7 snips
Nov 14, 2025 • 33min
Sussan Ley killed net zero. Will it save her?
Opposition leader Sussan Ley faces intense scrutiny after defending her party's decision to abandon net zero targets. The discussion dives into whether her focus on affordability can resonate with middle Australia. The hosts illuminate the historical context of Liberal Party climate debates and explore Ley's authenticity as a leader. They also analyze the implications of recent policies on voters' priorities, pitting cost-of-living concerns against climate action. With potential natural disasters looming, the fallout from this decision could reshape the political landscape.
11 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 32min
Why the Libs ditched net zero
Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent for The Conversation and a political expert, dives into the Liberal Party's controversial decision to abandon net zero. She discusses the implications of this policy shift on internal party dynamics and the power struggles between moderates and conservatives. Michelle also highlights the potential fallout in metropolitan and youth electorates, where the party risks alienating crucial voters. Lastly, she critiques the economic viability of their proposed energy policies amid rising investment uncertainties.
Nov 12, 2025 • 23min
Liberals face net zero D-Day
Tensions rise as the Liberals' crucial decision on net zero looms large. There's a heated debate over party unity, with moderates hoping to persuade conservatives for a cleaner future. Meanwhile, speculation abounds about potential resignations if the moderates' views are sidelined. Polling reveals a divided public, raising questions about voter perceptions of climate policy. The podcast navigates through leadership implications and international climate ambitions, exploring whether bipartisanship might be at risk.
