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
Oct 1, 2025 • 22min
Is Labor putting out the housing fire or fanning the flames?
The Prime Minister returns home to tackle Australia’s housing crisis, questioning if current measures are genuine fixes. Discussion revolves around a 5% deposit guarantee for first-home buyers and whether it truly addresses the housing shortage. The podcast dives into topics like rising construction costs, labor shortages, and fairness for young buyers. Political reactions from the Coalition and Greens highlight differing views on supply and demand, while the ambitious target of 1.2 million homes raises skepticism about feasibility.
10 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 27min
Trump has a plan for peace. Will it work?
Olivia Caisley, Acting Defence Correspondent at ABC, joins to dissect Trump’s ambitious 20-point peace plan with Netanyahu aimed at resolving the Gaza conflict. They examine key elements like a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal, debating its feasibility. Olivia also dives into Australia’s diplomatic stance on Palestine and the recent Optus outage—highlighting its impact on emergency services and public frustration. The discussion captures the intertwining of international diplomacy and domestic politics, making for a thought-provoking dialogue.
13 snips
Sep 29, 2025 • 28min
Albanese and Starmer stare down populism
Anthony Albanese's recent UK trip highlighted democratic resilience amid rising populism. His speech at the Labour Party conference sparked debate on political diplomacy. The hosts explore how his visit ties into broader strategies against right-wing momentum in Australia. They also examine the Liberal Party's identity crisis, the impact of teal independents, and potential trade tensions from US pharmaceutical tariffs. Meanwhile, household financial struggles loom large against improving budget figures.
22 snips
Sep 26, 2025 • 21min
Alastair Campbell on Trump: "What the f is he talking about?" | Insiders On Background
Alastair Campbell, former communications director to Tony Blair and a prominent political commentator, dives into the challenges faced by progressives in the Trump era. He emphasizes the need for proactive ideas to counter far-right narratives. Alastair critiques Trump's unpredictable speeches, revealing their global implications. He discusses the rise of far-right Christian nationalism and the struggles of leaders like Keir Starmer. With keen insights on diplomatic approaches to Trump and the importance of strategic alliances, Campbell urges progressive response to rising hard-right politics.
Sep 25, 2025 • 42min
Albanese and the brave new world order
Michelle Grattan, an experienced political journalist and Chief Political Correspondent at The Conversation, joins the discussion to unearth Australia's evolving foreign policy. She delves into Anthony Albanese's bold stance on recognizing Palestine and how he balances growing ties with Europe against maintaining rapport with the U.S. Grattan also tackles the impact of a viral moment involving Liberal MP Andrew Hastie and explores the tensions within the party as leadership aspirations simmer under the surface, making for an engaging political analysis.
Sep 24, 2025 • 22min
Albanese and Trump lock in a date
A significant meeting between Donald Trump and Anthony Albanese is scheduled for next month in Washington. The conversation explores whether this Oval Office sit-down is a strategic move for Albanese, weighing the prestige against potential risks. In addition, they dissect the implications of Trump's recent UN speech, including shifts on key issues. Amid these geopolitical tensions, the podcast also discusses Australia's environmental commitments and how European leaders are stepping in to fill gaps in US leadership.
Sep 23, 2025 • 28min
Has Sussan Ley gone 'rogue' on Palestine?
Sussan Ley's controversial move to revoke Australia's recognition of Palestinian statehood is at the center of the discussion. As she reaches out to US Republicans, the implications for foreign policy and national unity are debated. Meanwhile, the conversation shifts to the Optus outage and its impact on emergency services, highlighting the need for better infrastructure. With tensions rising in Australian politics, the hosts dissect the ramifications of Ley's stance and the broader diplomatic landscape.
Sep 22, 2025 • 25min
Australia splits with US to recognise Palestine
Australia has officially recognized Palestine as a sovereign state, stirring diplomatic discussions and raising questions about its effects. The move puts the country at odds with the US, sparking speculation about potential meetings between leaders. Meanwhile, the Optus outage, linked to tragic incidents, has prompted an investigation and scrutiny over communication failures. Additionally, the political landscape sees shifts with Andrew Hastie's controversial social media activity as the Coalition navigates fundraising and leadership challenges.
19 snips
Sep 19, 2025 • 18min
Matt Kean urging opposition to back govt's 2035 emissions target || Insiders: On Background
Matt Kean, Chair of the Climate Change Authority and former New South Wales Treasurer, dives into Australia’s ambitious plan to cut emissions by 62 to 70% by 2035. He discusses how shifting to renewables can lower electricity bills and support the rise of electric vehicles. Kean also emphasizes the importance of land use and carbon removal strategies, urging collaboration with farmers for better soil health. His insights reveal the critical need for stable policy to attract investment and drive meaningful change.
7 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 40min
Labor unveils 2035 climate targets. What next?
Tom McIlroy, Political Editor at Guardian Australia, joins the discussion to delve into the Albanese Government's ambitious 2035 climate targets, set between 62-70%. He highlights the resurgence of climate debates within the Coalition, focusing on Sussan Ley's stance against pursuing net zero at any cost. The conversation shifts to Ley's economic vision, exploring internal tensions among party members. Additionally, McIlroy analyzes Albanese's Pacific diplomacy and upcoming UN engagements, including key issues like Palestinian recognition and the AUKUS agreement.
