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
Jun 12, 2025 • 27min
Tariff triumph or trouble? | Insiders On Background
Justin Wolfers, an acclaimed Australian economist and professor at the University of Michigan, dives into the complexities of US-Australia trade relations. He discusses the impact of US-imposed tariffs on inflation and corporate earnings. Wolfers highlights Australia’s strategic position amidst US-China tensions, particularly in rare earth minerals. He also critiques current trade agreements and explores shifting public sentiment toward Trump's economic policies, noting a decline in support for tariffs among economists and the general populace.
5 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 38min
Is Trump using AUKUS as a 'Trojan horse'?
Charles Croucher, Nine's chief Political Reporter and former Washington correspondent, dives into the complexities of the AUKUS agreement amid the Trump Administration's review. He discusses the upcoming G7 meeting between Australia's Prime Minister and Trump, highlighting potential pressures on Australia. The conversation also touches on Australia’s recent sanctions against Israeli ministers and the intricate dynamics of diplomatic relationships. Croucher analyzes how these developments impact national politics and defense strategies.
Jun 11, 2025 • 23min
Why Australia sanctioned Israeli Ministers
Australia's recent sanctions against two Israeli ministers spark a heated discussion on human rights and international relations. The Albanese government faces backlash domestically and from the US for this bold stance. Meanwhile, the Greens party grapples with internal turmoil as accusations of racism and toxic culture lead to notable resignations. Additionally, the cancellation of a beloved democratic dialogue program raises concerns about the future of public discourse and journalism in Australia, highlighting the medium's evolving landscape.
Jun 10, 2025 • 26min
Why AI means reform in Albo's second term
The Prime Minister outlines a bold vision for reform and productivity in his National Press Club address. A roundtable is planned to address AI's impact on the workforce, prompting discussions about urgent reforms. Meanwhile, skepticism looms over the effectiveness of dialogue between unions and businesses. The conscience of leadership is tested as the PM faces demands for federal action on black deaths in custody. Additionally, political turmoil in Tasmania raises questions about leadership amid budget crises and public sentiment.
Jun 9, 2025 • 25min
Will beef be on the menu when Albanese meets Trump?
Former PM Scott Morrison receives Australia’s highest honor, sparking debate on awards for politicians. The buzz builds around Prime Minister Albanese's upcoming meeting with Trump, with beef negotiations at the forefront. As the G7 summit looms, Australia's strategic trade position comes into focus, especially regarding critical minerals. Amid discussions of global challenges and fun weather anecdotes, the hosts keep the conversation lively and engaging.
Jun 6, 2025 • 22min
Is Australia drone-ready? | Insiders on Background
In this engaging conversation, retired Major General Mick Ryan shares his extensive experience from over three decades in the Australian Defence Force. He delves into lessons Australia can learn from Ukraine's innovative drone warfare strategies, highlighting how inexpensive drones and AI have reshaped military operations. Ryan discusses the challenges Australia faces in adapting these technologies due to bureaucratic hurdles and its defense budget issues. Emphasizing the need for decentralized decision-making, he raises concerns over vulnerabilities in Australian airbases.
Jun 5, 2025 • 40min
Albo's Trump-sized headache
Join Paul Sakkal, Chief Political Correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, as he unpacks the latest political upheavals in Australia. Discover how Anthony Albanese is maneuvering post-Trump's tariff hikes and the implications of WA Senator Dorinda Cox's defection from the Greens to Labor. Delve into the gender dynamics shaping Liberal Party debates and the ongoing turmoil in the Bradfield electoral seat. Sakkal also explores Australia’s economic challenges and the quest for smarter productivity solutions.
Jun 4, 2025 • 23min
Can Albo get a tariff deal with Trump?
The Opposition leader is pushing for tariff exemptions similar to the UK's recent deal with the Trump administration. Prime Minister Albanese is adamant that these tariffs are damaging to Australia’s economy. Meanwhile, the narrow victory of Independent Teal candidate Nicolette Boele raises questions about the future of the Liberal party's moderate faction. The discussion also addresses the pressure to boost defense spending and the complexities of balancing national security with social service demands amidst economic uncertainty.
Jun 3, 2025 • 25min
Why Dorinda Cox left the Greens for Labor
Political journalist Brett Worthington joins Patricia Karvelas to dissect WA Senator Dorinda Cox's surprising jump from the Greens to Labor, revealing the underlying motivations and potential impacts on governance. They venture into the tense political atmosphere surrounding the close Bradfield recount and analyze how the Fair Work Commission's minimum wage hike may serve as a boon for the Albanese Government. With a mix of humor and insight, Worthington sheds light on Australia's evolving political landscape.
Jun 2, 2025 • 33min
PM stares down US defence spending demand
Australia's Prime Minister firmly resists U.S. demands to increase defense spending, citing a need for autonomy amid rising Indo-Pacific tensions. He also addresses the struggles of farmers facing climate change impacts, despite disappointing greenhouse gas reduction figures. Discussions highlight the complexities of the AUKUS agreement and the challenges of balancing domestic needs with international pressures. The podcast dives into shifting political perspectives on climate policy, revealing a fatigue among the public over ongoing debates.
