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 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.
Sep 1, 2025 • 27min
The government condemns anti-immigration rallies
Recent anti-immigration rallies in Australia have sparked intense debate, featuring alarming involvement from neo-Nazi groups. The Albanese government condemned the protests but faces criticism for lack of action. A controversial $400 million plan to deport non-citizens to Nauru has also raised eyebrows. Conversations about the economic contributions of immigrants clash against rising anti-immigration sentiments, pushing Australia into a complex political landscape. Exploring these themes reveals deep-rooted issues of racism and community cohesion.
15 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 17min
How should governments respond to the 'sovereign citizen' movement? || Insiders: On Background
Joe McIntyre, an Associate Professor from the University of South Australia, discusses the rise of the sovereign citizen movement and its implications. He explores the mindset of its followers, the pandemic's role in radicalization, and the threats they pose to law enforcement. The chat reveals how misinformation on social media fuels this movement and raises concerns about firearms and violence. McIntyre emphasizes mental health connections and advocates for better civic education to counteract these dangerous ideologies.
7 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 40min
Canberra, Iran and a curious photo op
Ashleigh Raper, Network Ten Political Editor, joins Patricia Karvelas and Melissa Clarke to dissect a turbulent week in Canberra. They discuss Australia’s historic expulsion of the Iranian ambassador in response to alleged attacks, signaling a strong stance against foreign aggression. The trio also examines the political fallout from this decision, including bipartisan support and criticisms of past inaction. Furthermore, they touch on the implications of designating the IRGC as a terrorist organization, community concerns, and the nuances of public perception surrounding political maneuvers.
Aug 27, 2025 • 24min
Is the government doing enough on sovereign citizens?
A surge in sovereign citizen ideology following a tragic police incident in Victoria raises national security concerns. The government faces scrutiny over its response and the effectiveness of law enforcement against this rising threat. Meanwhile, revelations about the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' involvement in anti-Semitic attacks prompt a downgrade of diplomatic ties with Iran. The complexities of these issues reveal the delicate balance of political interests, with calls for bipartisanship amid growing domestic and foreign extremism.
Aug 26, 2025 • 24min
Iran 'orchestrated' attacks on Australian soil
Raf Epstein, a journalist from ABC Radio in Melbourne, dives into shocking revelations about Iran's involvement in attacks on Jewish institutions in Australia. He discusses the Australian government’s decisive actions, including the designation of Iran's Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization. The podcast also addresses the fallout from these escalating tensions, especially concerning the safety of the Jewish community. Additionally, Epstein highlights political turmoil within the Coalition over climate policy, revealing rifts between leadership and party members.
Aug 25, 2025 • 22min
A housing pitch and a net zero brawl
The government is making bold moves on housing, fast-tracking a 5% deposit scheme while pausing energy efficiency requirements. A fierce debate erupts within the Coalition over net zero commitments, with Barnaby Joyce reigniting tensions. Regulations surrounding building codes are under scrutiny, raising questions about their effectiveness. There's a satirical critique of government aid favoring the wealthy amidst changing policies. The interplay of climate policy and community support adds another layer to the housing narrative, highlighting the financial complexities of energy transitions.
9 snips
Aug 22, 2025 • 17min
Are working-age Australians being ripped off by the tax system? || Insiders: On Background
In this engaging discussion, Aruna Sathenapali, Head of the Grattan Institute, shares insights from the recent Economic Reform Roundtable on Australia’s tax system. She emphasizes the urgent need for tax reform to promote fairness, particularly for working-age Australians facing inequities in income taxation. Aruna critiques the tax-free status for retirees and explores disparities affecting high and low-income earners. The conversation also touches on simplifying complex tax processes and the necessity of a broad public understanding to drive meaningful change.
Aug 21, 2025 • 40min
Sizzle or fizzle? The verdict on the Roundtable
Tom McIlroy, Chief Political Correspondent for Guardian Australia, joins the conversation to unpack the recent Economic Reform Roundtable in Canberra. The atmosphere was upbeat, with participants eager to avoid 'regulatory hairballs' and discuss sustainable funding for the NDIS. McIlroy dives into the implications of Australia recognizing Palestinian statehood and its impact on relations with Israel. They also touch on the delicate balance of international diplomacy, especially amidst ongoing tensions and the need for clear communication in foreign policy.
