

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

5 snips
Jan 3, 2025 • 11min
Why are more military veterans being radicalised?
Todd Helmus, a military extremism expert at the RAND think tank, sheds light on the troubling rise of violent extremism among military veterans. He discusses the unsettling link between veteran service and recent violent incidents in the U.S. Helmus highlights the challenges veterans face during their transition to civilian life, making them vulnerable to extremist groups. He also explores the interplay between mental health and radicalization, emphasizing the need for supportive measures to combat this growing issue.

10 snips
Jan 2, 2025 • 11min
What we know about the New Orleans attack
Dr. Javed Ali, a former FBI and Department of Homeland Security official, provides expert insights into the tragic New Orleans attack that left 15 dead and many injured. He discusses the complex motivations behind the assailant's actions during a festive celebration. Dr. Ali delves into the meticulous planning involved in the attack, indicating it was far from spontaneous. He also highlights the critical investigation unfolding in the aftermath, emphasizing security flaws exposed by this devastating event.

7 snips
Jan 1, 2025 • 11min
Antony Green on the seats that could decide the 2025 election
Antony Green, ABC's Chief Elections Analyst, breaks down the shifting dynamics ahead of the 2025 Australian federal election. He discusses how high interest rates and cost of living pressures are influencing voter concerns. Green also highlights significant changes in electoral boundaries, including new and removed seats, which could reshape party competitiveness. He emphasizes the government’s precarious majority and the emerging political movements that might alter traditional voting patterns. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone keen on Australian politics!

Dec 31, 2024 • 9min
Could Russia release the captured Aussie in a POW swap?
The podcast dives into the significant recent prisoner exchange between Ukraine and Russia, focusing on Australian citizen Oscar Jenkins, captured while serving in Ukraine's foreign legion. Legal expert Don Rothwell discusses the complexities of his potential release and the differences between mercenary and POW statuses. The conversation highlights the role of international mediators and the limitations Australia faces in negotiations, along with how humanitarian laws affect the situation. It's a gripping exploration of the challenges in securing freedom.

Dec 30, 2024 • 9min
What caused South Korea's deadliest plane crash?
A devastating plane crash in South Korea leads to national mourning as 179 lives are lost. The emergency landing attempt raises questions about bird strikes and potential mechanical issues. Experts discuss the Boeing 737's hydraulic systems and the impact of electrical failures on flight data. Investigations focus on landing conditions and unusual runway features. The critical analysis emphasizes the importance of thorough investigations in aviation emergencies.

Dec 26, 2024 • 15min
2024 picks: Would you fall for the ‘elaborate’ new scams?
Michael Atkin, an ABC consumer affairs reporter, shares insights into the alarming rise of sophisticated scams targeting Australians. He discusses the art of deception used by scammers, particularly through fake text messages impersonating banks. Victims’ harrowing experiences reveal the emotional and financial toll of these frauds. Atkin also critiques how major banks are lagging in improving scam detection technologies and highlights government efforts, including a National Anti-Scam Centre, to combat this growing threat.

Dec 25, 2024 • 16min
2024 picks: Why more babies won’t fix China
Stuart Gietel-Basten, a social science professor at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, dives into China's declining birth rates amidst economic challenges. He discusses the legacy of population control, transitioning from the one-child policy to attempts at reversing the trend with financial incentives. Gietel-Basten emphasizes the importance of addressing socio-economic factors rather than solely focusing on boosting numbers. He also explores solutions for an aging society and critiques the relentless pursuit of economic growth.

Dec 24, 2024 • 15min
2024 picks: The EV emissions claims tested
In this insightful discussion, Jo Lauder, ABC climate reporter, delves into the complex environmental impact of electric vehicles (EVs) versus petrol cars. She reveals that while EVs have higher initial emissions from battery production, their lifetime emissions are generally lower, especially if powered by renewable energy. Jo highlights the challenges of battery disposal and the innovative recycling options available. She also examines regional differences in EV efficiency and the necessary steps toward a fully decarbonized electricity grid for a sustainable future.

Dec 23, 2024 • 15min
2024 picks: Why Spain can’t stand tourists anymore
Sebastian Zenker, a tourism professor at the Copenhagen Business School, shares his expert insights on the rising tensions between locals and tourists in Spain. He discusses how overtourism is fueling frustration in popular cities like Barcelona, with residents feeling overwhelmed by massive tourist traffic. Zenker explores innovative local initiatives aiming to prioritize citizen needs, the significant impact of platforms like Airbnb on community dynamics, and vital strategies for easing pressure on these cherished destinations.

Dec 22, 2024 • 14min
2024 picks: Has AI stolen Scarlett Johansson’s voice?
Sharon Goldman, AI reporter at Fortune, dives into the fascinating ethical and legal dilemmas surrounding AI voice technology. She discusses Scarlett Johansson's shocking experience with a ChatGPT voice model that she feels resembles her own. Goldman highlights the emotional ramifications of AI replicating celebrity voices and the broader societal and gender implications. She also examines the legal landscape concerning likeness rights and the ownership challenges that may lie ahead as AI capabilities evolve.