

ABC News Daily
ABC
ABC News Daily is the podcast that helps you understand the issues affecting your world. Every episode, host Samantha Hawley walks through one story with the help of an ABC colleague or expert in under 15 minutes. When you want coverage you can trust, listen to ABC News Daily.
Key topics of recent episodes include the Donald Trump administration, DOGE, Tesla, insurance costs, recession risks, egg shortages, DeepSeek, neo-Nazis, Putin and Xi, solar batteries, the jobs market, anti-Semitism, and the Israel-Hamas war.
From interest rates, real estate and the housing crisis, to scams and US politics, ABC News Daily brings you facts and analysis you need to understand the biggest news stories.
After Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Labor were returned to office in the 2025 election, with a strong parliamentary majority, we will be following the government’s new agenda and how the diminished Liberal and National Party Coalition responds. The podcast picks apart major policy areas, including energy policy, finance and the Federal Budget.
The podcast covers news from America, with analysis on the Donald Trump administration in the White House. His actions, including massive tariffs on trade, have big implications for global politics and the economy and US journalists and experts will explain what's at stake.
As Australians battle a cost-of-living crisis, ABC News Daily looks at the causes of inflation, rising rental costs, house prices, insurance costs and the price of groceries. Key experts in business and finance join Samantha Hawley, explaining the state of the economy, the unemployment rate and the jobs market.
Whether you rent, own an investment house or apartment, or are repaying a mortgage, ABC News Daily offers unique insights and analysis. When there are big moves from the Reserve Bank (RBA) on interest rates, or remarkable reactions in the ASX or the Australian dollar, guest experts, including economists, explain why.
Look into ABC News Daily's archive to find episodes on electric vehicles (EVs), artificial intelligence (AI), the big banks, supermarkets, TikTok, Ozempic, Tesla, Elon Musk, Twitter, Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg, COVID, cyber security, spies, espionage, education, schools, teachers, crime and issues relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (First Nations) Australians.
ABC News Daily follows developments in the Middle East and the war between Israel and Hamas, with insights into the mindset of Benjamin Netanyahu, Palestinians and the role of Iran.
The podcast looks at the latest from Ukraine as Volodymyr Zelensky fights to repel the Russian invaders led by Russia's President Vladimir Putin. As China's Xi Jinping contemplates the future of Taiwan, ABC News Daily will sort fact from fiction. When North Korea's Kim Jong Un fires ballistic missiles, we'll assess the danger his regime poses.
When scammers target superannuation, your tax return and the ATO, you'll hear advice on what you can do to protect yourself.
As climate change fuelled by greenhouse gas emissions increases the risk of natural disasters, including fires and floods, ABC News Daily brings you fact-based analysis.
The future of electricity generation in Australia is being debated, and as claims are made about the merits of nuclear power, come to ABC News Daily for context around its potential role in replacing or augmenting coal and gas power plants and what it could mean for power bills. The podcast covers the future of renewable / green power generation, including the use of wind turbines, solar and hydro electric power.
The podcast looks at key businesses, including Coles and Woolworths, Qantas, the Commonwealth Bank and the construction, resources and manufacturing industries. When they report record profit, battle unions, or raise prices, the podcast pays attention.
ABC experts including Ian Verrender, Alan Kohler, Laura Tingle, Patricia Karvelas, John Lyons, and Annabel Crabb join Samantha Hawley to step through big issues and current affairs.
Key topics of recent episodes include the Donald Trump administration, DOGE, Tesla, insurance costs, recession risks, egg shortages, DeepSeek, neo-Nazis, Putin and Xi, solar batteries, the jobs market, anti-Semitism, and the Israel-Hamas war.
From interest rates, real estate and the housing crisis, to scams and US politics, ABC News Daily brings you facts and analysis you need to understand the biggest news stories.
After Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Labor were returned to office in the 2025 election, with a strong parliamentary majority, we will be following the government’s new agenda and how the diminished Liberal and National Party Coalition responds. The podcast picks apart major policy areas, including energy policy, finance and the Federal Budget.
The podcast covers news from America, with analysis on the Donald Trump administration in the White House. His actions, including massive tariffs on trade, have big implications for global politics and the economy and US journalists and experts will explain what's at stake.
As Australians battle a cost-of-living crisis, ABC News Daily looks at the causes of inflation, rising rental costs, house prices, insurance costs and the price of groceries. Key experts in business and finance join Samantha Hawley, explaining the state of the economy, the unemployment rate and the jobs market.
Whether you rent, own an investment house or apartment, or are repaying a mortgage, ABC News Daily offers unique insights and analysis. When there are big moves from the Reserve Bank (RBA) on interest rates, or remarkable reactions in the ASX or the Australian dollar, guest experts, including economists, explain why.
Look into ABC News Daily's archive to find episodes on electric vehicles (EVs), artificial intelligence (AI), the big banks, supermarkets, TikTok, Ozempic, Tesla, Elon Musk, Twitter, Facebook, Mark Zuckerberg, COVID, cyber security, spies, espionage, education, schools, teachers, crime and issues relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (First Nations) Australians.
ABC News Daily follows developments in the Middle East and the war between Israel and Hamas, with insights into the mindset of Benjamin Netanyahu, Palestinians and the role of Iran.
The podcast looks at the latest from Ukraine as Volodymyr Zelensky fights to repel the Russian invaders led by Russia's President Vladimir Putin. As China's Xi Jinping contemplates the future of Taiwan, ABC News Daily will sort fact from fiction. When North Korea's Kim Jong Un fires ballistic missiles, we'll assess the danger his regime poses.
When scammers target superannuation, your tax return and the ATO, you'll hear advice on what you can do to protect yourself.
As climate change fuelled by greenhouse gas emissions increases the risk of natural disasters, including fires and floods, ABC News Daily brings you fact-based analysis.
The future of electricity generation in Australia is being debated, and as claims are made about the merits of nuclear power, come to ABC News Daily for context around its potential role in replacing or augmenting coal and gas power plants and what it could mean for power bills. The podcast covers the future of renewable / green power generation, including the use of wind turbines, solar and hydro electric power.
The podcast looks at key businesses, including Coles and Woolworths, Qantas, the Commonwealth Bank and the construction, resources and manufacturing industries. When they report record profit, battle unions, or raise prices, the podcast pays attention.
ABC experts including Ian Verrender, Alan Kohler, Laura Tingle, Patricia Karvelas, John Lyons, and Annabel Crabb join Samantha Hawley to step through big issues and current affairs.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 16, 2025 • 15min
How long will the Israel-Hamas ceasefire hold?
In this lively discussion, Hussein Ibish, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, analyzes the newly brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. He shares insights on the overwhelming relief from both Israelis and Palestinians, the pivotal role of Donald Trump's pressure on Netanyahu, and the complicated phased nature of the agreement. Ibish warns of the fragility of the peace and the significant challenges in rebuilding Gaza, emphasizing how key players must commit to avoiding further conflict for lasting harmony.

Jan 15, 2025 • 14min
What Trump and China did to the Aussie dollar
Ian Verrender, ABC's chief business correspondent, shares his expertise on the economic implications of the Australian dollar's decline. He highlights how Trump's tariffs and policies have strengthened the US dollar, impacting Australia's currency. Ian argues that, despite challenges, interest rate cuts should remain an option for the Reserve Bank. He explores the interplay between the Aussie dollar and China's economic slowdown, as well as the speculative nature of currency fluctuations, making a compelling case for understanding these global dynamics.

Jan 14, 2025 • 15min
Could Sydney burn like Los Angeles?
Rob Rogers, the Commissioner of the New South Wales Rural Fire Service, shares critical insights on the looming risk of urban fires in Sydney, akin to the destructive blazes in Los Angeles. He discusses the emotional toll these fires have on communities and the urgent need for preparedness. The conversation spans firefighting strategies, the challenges posed by severe weather, and the potential of AI in enhancing response efforts. Rogers emphasizes the importance of modern detection systems and maintaining a robust volunteer force to combat escalating wildfire threats.

Jan 13, 2025 • 15min
One Australian’s story from the LA fires
An Australian artist shares his haunting experience of losing his home in the devastating LA wildfires. He vividly describes the chaos and despair of returning to a landscape of ashes. Insights from a veteran firefighter highlight lessons learned from past bushfires and the ongoing challenges of community resilience. Discussions focus on the emotional toll of recovery and the need for better fire preparedness, showcasing the evolution of firefighting strategies and the impact of climate change on these catastrophic events.

Jan 12, 2025 • 15min
The global trend Albanese needs to beat to win
Mark Kenny, Director of the Australian Studies Institute and host of 'Democracy Sausage,' dives into the shifting tides of global politics. He highlights the rising global trend of voters seeking change from incumbent governments, driven by post-pandemic economic struggles and increasing distrust in democratic institutions. Kenny discusses how this sentiment could jeopardize Anthony Albanese’s Labor party in the upcoming Australian election. He warns that public discontent may have long-term implications for democratic stability.

Jan 10, 2025 • 18min
Why the LA wildfires can't be stopped
Maddie Power, a Los Angeles resident who tragically lost her home in the recent wildfires, shares her heart-wrenching experiences amid the devastation. She highlights the emotional aftermath of losing everything and the surprising gratitude that arose from the support of neighbors. The conversation digs into the alarming impact of climate change, linking the increasing overlap of fire seasons in California and Australia. It also sheds light on the broader struggles of preparedness and insurance for wildfire victims.

Jan 9, 2025 • 17min
Why deadly LA wildfires are raging in winter
Jonathon Porter, Chief Meteorologist at AccuWeather, sheds light on the harrowing wildfires ravaging Los Angeles. He discusses how intense Santa Ana winds have fueled these unprecedented winter blazes. The destructive power has led to mass evacuations and significant property loss, including homes of celebrities. The podcast also features Jason Oppenheim, who provides insight into the most affected affluent neighborhoods. Together, they reveal the alarming weather patterns contributing to this crisis and its staggering economic impact.

Jan 8, 2025 • 11min
Can Trump seize Greenland and the Panama Canal?
Don Rothwell, an expert in international law from the Australian National University, dives into Donald Trump's controversial aspirations to acquire Greenland, the Panama Canal, and even Canada. He discusses the strategic military significance and mineral wealth of these territories. Rothwell highlights the historical context surrounding the Panama Canal and raises concerns about U.S. interests in Greenland amidst rising Chinese influence. The conversation delves into the geopolitical tensions this could spark, impacting relations with Canada and beyond.

Jan 7, 2025 • 9min
How Justin Trudeau lost his shine
The recent resignation of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau marks the end of a controversial nine-year term. What fueled his decline from popularity? Experts discuss the challenges of rebranding in a shifting political landscape. Economic uncertainties and potential tariffs loom large, compelling Trudeau's party to redefine itself. Insights reveal the intricate dance of politics and public trust, as the search for new leadership begins in the wake of this political shake-up.

Jan 6, 2025 • 11min
Will Donald Trump pardon the US Capitol rioters?
Elie Honig, a CNN senior legal analyst and former federal prosecutor, discusses the potential for Donald Trump to pardon supporters of the Capitol riots four years ago. He delves into the political and legal ramifications of such pardons, considering the nature of the offenses and the complexities of presidential powers. Honig also examines the evolving narrative of January 6th, its influence on justice perceptions, and the continued impact of Trump’s political maneuvers on the American political landscape.