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
11 snips
Oct 28, 2025 • 18min
Is Labor ‘taking the piss’ on integrity?
The Albanese Government faces scrutiny after a report reveals it has failed six out of seven integrity measures. Discussions on transparency raise questions about the Prime Minister's media strategy. The proposed changes to Freedom of Information laws could harm public inquiries. Meanwhile, the looming closure of the Tomago Aluminium Smelter due to energy costs sparks concerns over job protection. The debate continues over accountability in telecoms following the Optus network outage, with calls for a Senate inquiry.
Oct 27, 2025 • 0sec
Is this Labor's biggest test yet?
The Albanese Government faces a crucial challenge with the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation reform bill. Graeme Samuel's report adds pressure on the Opposition while raising questions about the bill's approval system. Labor is torn between negotiating with the Coalition or the Greens, both bringing their own risks and demands. Meanwhile, Labor is managing internal and external stakeholder dynamics as they navigate the legislative landscape amidst the Prime Minister's overseas trip. Plus, a light-hearted take on Trump's renovation metaphor adds some humor.
Oct 24, 2025 • 29min
What does Trump really think about China? | Insiders On Background
Justin Bassi, Executive Director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, dives into crucial issues surrounding Australia’s defense strategy and its alliance with the U.S. He discusses the implications of the recent Albanese-Trump meeting and Trump's comments on China and Taiwan. Bassi emphasizes the importance of increased defense spending and strategic investments beyond just budget numbers. He also analyzes Xi Jinping's approach to Taiwan, deterrence dynamics, and the complexities of AUKUS agreements amid evolving geopolitical tensions.
10 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 45min
How Albanese won Trump over
Katina Curtis, Canberra Bureau Chief for The West Australian, dives into Anthony Albanese's surprising success during his White House meeting with Donald Trump. They discuss how Trump's alignment with Labor's stances could weaken Opposition critiques on AUKUS and defense funding. Katina also explains the significance of the new US-Australia critical minerals deal, highlighting key projects and investment strategies aimed at reducing reliance on China. Plus, insights into the political drama surrounding Barnaby Joyce's potential shift to One Nation spice up the conversation.
8 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 20min
What Trump's China message means for Australia
Anthony Albanese's recent meeting with Donald Trump sparked diverse reactions, while the call for US Ambassador Kevin Rudd’s resignation was deemed petty by Liberal Senator Jane Hume. Trump’s comments on China have raised strategic concerns for Australia, particularly regarding Taiwan. Discussion revolves around Trump's inconsistent foreign policy stance and its implications for Australia’s position in US relations. With bipartisan support for security initiatives like AUKUS highlighted, the meeting emerges as a significant diplomatic win for Albanese.
Oct 21, 2025 • 26min
Albanese heads home with a Trump card
Prime Minister Albanese and President Trump met, striking a deal on critical minerals that boosts Australia's mining prospects. The discussion heated up when former PM Rudd's awkward interaction with Trump raised eyebrows. Amid reassurances on defence spending and the AUKUS deal, the hosts analyzed the significance of media optics and the meeting's political fallout. They evaluated the coalition's criticism and how Albanese's success could reshape Labor's image, emphasizing a narrative of effectiveness.
Oct 20, 2025 • 26min
Is Barnaby the new Pauline Hanson?
Barnaby Joyce is stirring the pot by flirting with One Nation, raising questions about the unity of the Nationals and his future ambitions. There's lively debate on whether One Nation can win lower house seats amid a political shift to the right. Meanwhile, Albanese's upcoming meeting with Trump is crucial; success hinges on securing commitment for AUKUS and potential tariff negotiations. Will Albanese flatter Trump for diplomatic gains? The political landscape is ripe for intrigue and potential fallout.
Oct 17, 2025 • 19min
What will happen when Albanese meets Trump? | Insiders On Background
In this engaging discussion, Hayley Channer, Director of the Economic Security Program at the US Studies Centre, shares her insights on the upcoming meeting between Anthony Albanese and Donald Trump. She highlights potential flashpoints in defense spending and critical minerals. Hayley also explores the complexities of US–Australia relations, the impact of China's dominance in rare earths, and the necessity of public investment for minerals security. The conversation is a deep dive into strategic challenges and opportunities in reshaping supply chains.
Oct 16, 2025 • 38min
Is 'fear' behind Labor's super-sized backdown?
Phil Coorey, Senior Political Journalist at the Australian Financial Review, shares insights on Labor's recent backdown on superannuation tax policies. He discusses the political fears and internal pressures influencing the decision, while analyzing the balance the Coalition must strike amid diverse party dynamics. The role of Paul Keating in advocating for superannuation is highlighted, along with the complexities surrounding the tax implications and the criticism from the Greens. Coorey also previews Albanese's upcoming meeting with Donald Trump amid these changing political tides.
Oct 15, 2025 • 24min
Channelling Farage or chasing Teals?
James Paterson argues that the Liberal Party must unite to avoid a split, warning against both Farage-style populism and a teal approach. He critiques past policy failures and highlights the need for clarity in the party's identity. Paterson identifies crucial areas for reform, including housing and energy, while advocating for a balanced stance on migration. The hosts also discuss the implications of a potential split and the importance of strategic policy development in the party's recovery, all while keeping an eye on upcoming political events.
