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
10 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 22min
Will Labor's climate target be ambitious?
The Albanese Government is gearing up to reveal its 2035 emissions reduction target amidst a troubling climate assessment. Discussion centers on the potential for more ambitious climate goals despite significant policy challenges. Meanwhile, the focus on defense spending, including a $12 billion naval investment, raises questions about balancing climate ambitions with economic and security priorities. The military agreement with Papua New Guinea also highlights Australia's strategic moves in the Pacific against regional influences.
11 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 21min
What should Australia's 2035 climate target be?
In this engaging discussion, Erwin Jackson, Head of Australian programs for Climate Works Centre, shares insights on Australia’s upcoming 2035 climate target and the challenges that lie ahead. He emphasizes balancing industry survival with climate goals and the critical role of renewable energy in achieving these ambitions. Jackson explores economic benefits tied to sustainable investments and Australia’s pivotal position in the global renewable energy shift. The conversation also covers how clear policies and international cooperation are essential for effective climate action.
Sep 11, 2025 • 38min
Is Sussan Ley's leadership in trouble?
In a gripping discussion, Anna Henderson, Chief Political Correspondent at SBS News, breaks down the recent chaos within the Liberal Party following Sussan Ley's demotion of Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price. They explore the implications of internal factional battles on Ley's leadership authority. Henderson also sheds light on Prime Minister Albanese's actions at the Pacific Islands Forum, questioning Labor's dual approach to climate change. The conversation unpacks the deep divides in political sentiments and the evolving landscape of Australian politics.
Sep 10, 2025 • 0sec
PM condemns Israel's Qatar strike
The Prime Minister condemned Israel's airstrike in Qatar, calling it a breach of sovereignty. This move raises questions about potential ceasefire talks in Gaza. Meanwhile, the discussion shifts to Australia's diplomatic efforts at the Pacific Islands Forum and how it's countering China's growing influence. Political tensions in Australia surrounding immigration and net zero targets also spark debate, as public perception of recent protests reveals a more complicated societal response.
Sep 9, 2025 • 23min
Battle of the bribes in the Pacific
Tensions are rising within the Liberal Party as Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa-Price faces backlash over her comments on Indian migrants. The Prime Minister's diplomatic mission to the Pacific is complicated by a stalled security pact with Vanuatu. As Australia grapples with a changing geopolitical landscape, the discussion uncovers the transactional nature of Pacific diplomacy. Amidst concerns of rising gang violence in Melbourne, the podcast also touches on the impact of immigration on political narratives and the urgent push for climate commitments.
Sep 8, 2025 • 23min
Are the Liberals in a civil war?
Tensions erupt within the Liberal party as Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price clashes with Alex Hawke over controversial comments on Indian migration. The dispute raises questions about Sussan Ley's leadership authority amid internal divisions. Discussions reveal the party's struggles to connect with multicultural communities and the impact of immigration policies on upcoming elections. Critiques of anti-immigration campaigns urge a shift towards addressing infrastructure and housing issues instead of scapegoating migrants.
Sep 5, 2025 • 20min
Bob Carr on China’s military might || Insiders: On Background
Bob Carr, former Foreign Minister and New South Wales Premier, shares his insights on China's military prowess and diplomatic strategies. He discusses China's assertive maritime behavior and its implications for regional relationships, especially with the Philippines. The conversation highlights the Quad alliance's dynamics and India’s strategic positioning amid geopolitical shifts. Carr also analyzes the message behind China's recent military parade and reflects on the complexities of US-China relations, framing it within the broader landscape of modern diplomacy.
Sep 4, 2025 • 48min
Quiet Nauru deals, loud immigration protests
Phil Coorey, the political editor for The Australian Financial Review, dives into a controversial $408 million deal with Nauru, raising questions about transparency and costs potentially reaching $2.5 billion. The discussion highlights immigration protests and the Labor Party’s struggles with current policies, including influences from far-right ideologies. Coorey also addresses aged care reforms and the impact of recent political events on international relations, emphasizing the need for clarity in government communication amidst public dissent.
Sep 3, 2025 • 21min
Is the government taxing information?
Raf Epstein, a prominent ABC Radio Melbourne host, joins Patricia Karvelas to tackle pressing issues like the government's controversial changes to Freedom of Information laws, which some argue threaten transparency. They dive into the dire consequences of delayed aged care reforms highlighted by heartbreaking personal stories. The discussion also touches on the rise of neo-Nazism in Australia and the political implications of migration-related protests, emphasizing the need for accountability and open dialogue in national discourse.
Sep 2, 2025 • 32min
Can Labor fix home support for older Australians?
Raf Epstein, an Australian journalist and ABC Radio Melbourne host, dives into the critical state of aged care reforms in Australia. He discusses the tragic delays in essential home care packages, revealing that thousands have died waiting for services. Epstein examines personal caregiver experiences and the political dynamics in Parliament, emphasizing the need for urgent policy reforms. The episode also tackles the importance of transparency in government actions and the consequences of social media on public discourse.
