Politics Now
ABC listen
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
4 snips
May 19, 2025 • 28min
The PM heads to Rome
The Prime Minister's trip to Rome garners attention as he networks with world leaders at the Pope's inauguration. Meanwhile, the Liberal Party faces internal strife over nuclear energy policies. The Greens welcome a new leader, sparking discussions on gender representation in politics. The impact of Donald Trump's populism on Australian politics is scrutinized, along with new free trade opportunities. As the political landscape evolves, the need for cohesive strategies in climate policy becomes paramount.
May 16, 2025 • 21min
Another round of climate wars? "Oh God no!" | Insiders On Background
Innes Willox, Chief Executive of the Australian Industry Group and a prominent voice for business interests, discusses the fallout from a recent political shift in Australia regarding climate policy. He emphasizes that reopening the climate wars would bring unnecessary conflict. The conversation navigates through the critical need for clear net-zero guidelines to bolster business investments. Willox also addresses the complexities of nuclear energy investment and the urgent need for government action to enhance energy infrastructure for economic resilience.
8 snips
May 15, 2025 • 37min
Three leadership contests in one week
Karen Middleton, a seasoned political journalist and columnist, sheds light on an unprecedented week of leadership contests in Australia. Sussan Ley makes history as the first female leader of the Liberal Party, facing the challenge of unification. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese leads a newly sworn-in Labor cabinet with a progressive agenda. The conversation dives into navigating factional struggles, managing public expectations, and enhancing female representation in politics, making it a gripping analysis of current political dynamics.
May 14, 2025 • 0sec
Is Sussan Ley facing a glass cliff?
Sussan Ley steps into leadership amid party turmoil and questions around a 'glass cliff' for female leaders. The challenges of redefining the Liberal Party to attract women voters are scrutinized. Nuclear energy policy becomes a hot topic in navigating internal divisions. Ley's past struggles highlight the need for accountability and rebuilding connections with constituents. The discussion also touches on broader themes of political resilience and the dynamics of leading during crises.
10 snips
May 13, 2025 • 21min
What Sussan Ley's leadership means for the Liberals
Sussan Ley makes history as the first female leader of the Liberal Party, winning a tight contest against Angus Taylor. The discussion delves into the implications of her moderate leadership style and the challenges she's set to face on the 'glass cliff.' The inner workings of the party are laid bare, revealing factional conflicts and the impact of increased female representation. Additionally, the podcast highlights Anthony Albanese's strategic cabinet moves amid political pressures, noting the significant shifts in party dynamics.
May 12, 2025 • 22min
Surprises and snubs in Labor reshuffle
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese announces a surprising reshuffle of Labor's frontbench, elevating Michelle Rowland to Attorney General and expanding Mark Butler's role. The podcast dives into the political strategy behind these shifts and their implications for national security. There's a deep look at factional dynamics within the party, notably Richard Miles' ambitions, and discussion of the challenges both Labor and Liberal face moving forward. Expect insights on how these changes could reshape the political landscape!
May 9, 2025 • 25min
On Background || Liberal Party: What's next?
Fiona Scott, the federal vice president of the Liberal Party and former member for Lindsay, delves into the party's current crisis following the loss of leader Peter Dutton. She discusses the urgent need for the Libs to adapt their values and connect with younger voters. The conversation highlights the disconnect between political policies and voter experiences, especially around workplace issues. Scott also addresses the ongoing leadership debate and the complexities within the coalition dynamics, emphasizing the necessity for renewed strategies and unity.
21 snips
May 9, 2025 • 23min
Why the Liberals could shift to MAGA
A surprising political shift sees Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price jump to the Liberal Party, sparking rumors of a leadership bid alongside Angus Taylor. Meanwhile, Labor faces its own turmoil with frontbenchers unceremoniously ousted from Cabinet. The discussion delves into the ideological rifts within the Liberal Party and highlights the need for diverse representation in Australian politics. As the political landscape evolves, the dynamics of party leadership and electoral strategy take center stage.
May 8, 2025 • 37min
Why Bandt and Dutton's losses share 'parallels'
Clare Armstrong, National Political Editor for News Corp, dives into the recent leadership losses of Peter Dutton and Adam Bandt, highlighting the ripple effects on their respective parties. She discusses the urgent need for the Liberals and Greens to reassess their strategies. The conversation shifts to gender representation in politics, calling for potential preselection quotas. Armstrong also addresses the Albanese government's ambitions as it navigates complex public expectations post-pandemic, ensuring they align with voter sentiment.
7 snips
May 7, 2025 • 27min
Factional fights left, right and centre
In a political landscape teeming with factional rivalries, the Prime Minister is under pressure as Labor Party factions vie for influence in a reshaped frontbench. The dynamics within parties, especially the Liberal and Nationals, spotlight emerging leadership contenders. Following surprising election results, discussions about nuclear policy heat up, while the Prime Minister gears up for a pivotal trip to Indonesia. Meanwhile, the push for greater women's representation in politics sparks fascinating debates over pre-selection tactics and potential quotas.
