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
12 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 33min
Annabel Crabb on our 'unusual' democracy
Join Annabel Crabb, a political commentator and author, as she sheds light on Australia's fascinating democratic features like compulsory voting and the iconic democracy sausage. She explains how these unique aspects influence civic understanding among youth. Annabel also reflects on the 50th anniversary of the Whitlam dismissal, discussing its lasting effects on politics and democratic norms. With insights on independent electoral bodies and why few want leadership roles, this conversation is an engaging dive into the quirks and challenges of Australian democracy.
Nov 10, 2025 • 23min
Do leaders need political conviction?
Tensions rise in the Liberal Party as they prepare for a pivotal meeting on net zero, with Sussan Ley's leadership facing scrutiny. As factions clash over climate policy, the debate seems more about language than substance. Voter dissatisfaction looms large, threatening party credibility. Internal struggles amplify with leaders stepping down, while questions about political conviction spark a debate on whether strong stances help or hinder leadership. Meanwhile, the government's pressure eases amidst opposition turmoil as global climate priorities shift.
13 snips
Nov 7, 2025 • 37min
The Whitlam dismissal | Insiders On Background
Join veteran political journalist Niki Savva, who witnessed the Whitlam dismissal firsthand, and author Troy Bramston, who has extensively researched this pivotal moment in Australian history. Savva recounts the chaotic atmosphere on the day of the dismissal, her insights on Gough Whitlam's ambitious reform agenda, and the confusion in Parliament following the shocking news. Bramston delves into John Kerr's controversial role, the palace's warnings, and the lasting impact of this political crisis on Australia's governance.
Nov 6, 2025 • 40min
Does the Coalition respect Sussan Ley?
Jason Koutsoukis, a special correspondent for the Saturday Paper and savvy political reporter, dives into the recent chaos within the Coalition. He highlights the Nationals' decision to abandon net zero, creating turmoil and threatening Sussan Ley's leadership. The discussion also touches on the internal rift between moderates and conservatives, alongside Andrew Hastie's controversial remarks about Priya's Bill and its implications for his future. Koutsoukis reveals a troubling lack of respect for Ley among her peers, showcasing the challenges she faces in the current political landscape.
Nov 5, 2025 • 0sec
Can Sussan Ley survive the summer?
Tensions rise as Opposition leader Sussan Ley defends her leadership amid net zero turmoil. Internal pressure is mounting, with speculation about her future in the role. The Coalition's strategy shifts have complicated the renewable energy debate, especially with the Nationals' unexpected moves. Discussion includes the political implications of energy transition issues, particularly concerning aluminium smelters. Labor's attempts to sell the benefits of their energy policies are also scrutinized, raising questions about long-term economic risks.
Nov 4, 2025 • 20min
A rate 'bump in the road' for Labor
Interest rates are at a standstill, prompting discussions about the Albanese Government's future. The struggle for first homebuyers is highlighted as house prices spike due to a new deposit scheme. Meanwhile, the pressure on Labor mounts with rising costs and the need for effective relief measures. As the Liberal Party faces internal turmoil, Sussan Ley's leadership is under scrutiny. The debate rages on between demand-side and supply-side policies, impacting long-term housing solutions.
11 snips
Nov 3, 2025 • 25min
Are the Coalition about to split (again)?
The Nationals have ditched net zero by 2050, creating a challenge for the Coalition as they weigh voter sentiment. Can they stay united on climate issues? The Optus inquiry raises questions about accountability in telecom failures. Expect a deep dive into the implications for Liberal leadership and the critical metropolitan seats essential for electoral success. Plus, discussions on the costs of energy choices and the shifting messaging surrounding renewables add to the tension.
Oct 31, 2025 • 0sec
Can Labor reform Australia's environment laws? | Insiders On Background
Ken Henry, former Treasury secretary and seasoned economist, dives into the urgent need for reforming Australia's environmental laws. He discusses the long delays and inefficiencies of the EPBC Act, advocating for a balance between environmental protection and quick approvals for vital projects. Henry weighs the potential risks of ministerial overrides while stressing the integration of climate policy. He highlights the importance of safeguarding standards in bilateral approvals, urging swift reform to enhance productivity and tackle pressing issues like deforestation.
Oct 30, 2025 • 43min
Did Sussan Ley overreach on 'shirtgate'?
Claire Armstrong, an ABC political digital reporter, shares her insights on critical environment legislation and the political wrangling within the party room. She discusses the implications of the government's reform bills and potential negotiations with both the Greens and the Coalition. The podcast delves into the controversial 'shirtgate' incident involving Sussan Ley and the Prime Minister's fashion choice, questioning whether it was a strategic mistake amidst pressing issues like inflation and energy pricing. Armstrong also highlights the challenges faced by the Coalition on net zero policies.
13 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 33min
Antony Green on the rise of One Nation
Antony Green, a veteran ABC election analyst, dives into the political storm stirred by Pauline Hanson and One Nation. He reveals how Hanson’s stunning entry in 1996 shook the Coalition and discusses the party’s two distinct phases, including its shocking 1998 rise and later revival in 2016. Green analyzes the complexities of preference deals, the internal chaos of One Nation, and current polling that suggests it could threaten Coalition seats. He also speculates on the future of the party and what might happen if Hanson steps down.
