ABC News Daily

ABC News
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Nov 18, 2025 • 15min

The coloured sand that sparked an asbestos scare

Join Associate Professor Anthony Linton, an expert from the Asbestos and Dust Diseases Research Institute, as he delves into the alarming discovery of asbestos in children’s coloured sand. He discusses how this led to widespread school closures and product recalls across Australia. Anthony explains the types of asbestos found, the very low immediate risk posed, and why responses vary by state. He also offers safe disposal advice for concerned parents and reflects on Australia’s ongoing battle with asbestos and its legacy.
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Nov 17, 2025 • 16min

What polling reveals about voters and net zero

Kos Samaras, a seasoned pollster and director of the RedBridge Group, dives into voter attitudes towards climate policy as the Coalition drops their net zero target. He reveals how this decision is seen as a potential misstep by younger voters, who associate it with anti-climate sentiment. Kos discusses the disconnect between power prices and the blame directed at energy companies, rather than net zero. He also emphasizes the need for the Coalition to focus on traditional economic issues to regain favor among younger constituents.
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Nov 16, 2025 • 16min

Are Trump’s tariffs wrecking the US economy?

Penny Goldberg, a Yale economics professor and former Chief Economist at the World Bank, discusses the complexities of Trump's tariffs. She highlights how despite initial fears, the US economy has shown resilience, with tariffs generating significant revenue. However, she warns about long-term uncertainties, inflation risks, and the potential negative impacts on investment. Goldberg also critiques the idea that the economy is 'the strongest ever,' emphasizing that trade policies could inflict harm. Tune in for her insightful analysis of an evolving economic landscape.
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6 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 15min

Should neo-Nazis be banned from protesting?

In a thought-provoking discussion, Josh Roose, an extremism expert and associate professor at Deakin University, delves into the alarming presence of neo-Nazi groups in Australia. He explores the tactics these groups use to evade legal restrictions and questions why a rally targeting Jewish individuals was permitted. Josh argues for re-evaluating the balance between free speech and public safety, highlighting the risks of allowing hate speech to escalate. His insights prompt a deep reflection on the challenges of banning extremist movements in a liberal democracy.
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10 snips
Nov 12, 2025 • 15min

What was the point of the longest US shutdown?

Political scientist Charles Hunt from Boise State University dives into the chaos of the longest U.S. government shutdown. He breaks down its triggers, highlighting the role of healthcare subsidies and the impact on over a million federal workers. Hunt discusses the Trump administration's strategy to shrink government and the unusual legal battles around funding. The conversation touches on electoral consequences, pressure dynamics, and the surprising decisions of Democrats that shaped the outcome. Hunt sheds light on the risk of future shutdowns and the slim policy gains achieved.
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15 snips
Nov 11, 2025 • 16min

Did the BBC mislead viewers about Trump?

In this discussion, Monica Attard, a journalism professor and former ABC journalist, dives into the BBC's controversial editing of Trump’s January 6th speech. She analyzes whether the edits misrepresented Trump's intent and the implications for public trust. The backlash led to resignations within the BBC leadership and highlighted wider issues of bias and accountability. Attard also warns of self-censorship in newsrooms, stressing the need for media integrity amidst political pressure. The conversation unveils the precarious position public broadcasters now face.
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10 snips
Nov 10, 2025 • 15min

What’s the catch with three hours of free power?

In this discussion, Alison Reeve, the Energy and Climate Change Deputy Program Director at the Grattan Institute, dives into the Australian government's plan for three hours of free midday electricity. She explains how the scheme targets states with solar generation surpluses and the necessary opt-in process for smart meter users. Alison highlights the potential for cost savings but emphasizes practical challenges, such as lifestyle compatibility and the impact of cloudy days. Ultimately, she questions whether this initiative will genuinely reduce bills or simply add complexity for households.
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Nov 9, 2025 • 16min

Why crypto ATMs are a scammer’s best friend

Rhiana Whitson, an investigative business reporter for ABC, dives deep into the troubling rise of crypto ATMs and their connection to scams. She reveals how these machines have quickly proliferated across Australia, driven by a surge in cryptocurrency interest. Whitson shares harrowing stories, like that of a pensioner losing her life savings. She also discusses regulatory gaps, the challenges of tracing funds, and the need for urgent consumer awareness as criminals exploit these unregulated platforms.
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7 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 16min

Are AI stocks a bubble ready to burst?

Ian Verrender, ABC's Chief Business Correspondent, dives into the soaring valuations of AI-driven tech stocks. He highlights the impressive rise of companies like NVIDIA and their $5 trillion valuation, fueled by expectations of future growth. Verrender contrasts today’s thriving AI landscape with the dot-com bubble, emphasizing sustainable profits. He discusses investor confidence and the massive infrastructure spending driving this boom. As he navigates the concerns of a potential market correction, he questions whether we’re in a bubble or witnessing a significant tech transition.
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8 snips
Nov 5, 2025 • 16min

Could killing net zero save the Coalition?

Michelle Grattan, chief political correspondent at The Conversation and a professorial fellow at the University of Canberra, dives into the Coalition's tumultuous climate policy landscape. She discusses the Nationals' abandonment of their net-zero commitment and its implications for Liberal leader Sussan Ley. Grattan sheds light on the historical skepticism within the Coalition, the political maneuvering behind Scott Morrison's 2021 agreement, and the local resistance to infrastructure changes. The conversation explores the electoral risks and potential compromises facing the Liberals amid a shifting climate narrative.

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