ABC News Daily

ABC
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Nov 24, 2024 • 15min

The rise of the freebirth movement

Charlotte King, an investigative reporter for ABC, dives deep into the rising freebirth movement in Australia. As women opt for unassisted childbirth amid distrust in medical institutions, King unpacks the motivations behind this trend, from traumatic hospital experiences to the influence of online communities. She shares cautionary tales, like Alice’s harrowing journey after a freebirth, shedding light on the associated risks and the vital need for accessible midwifery care. The conversation raises important questions about maternal safety and autonomy.
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Nov 21, 2024 • 16min

The deaths from methanol poisoning in Laos

Lauren Day, ABC South East Asia correspondent, sheds light on a tragic methanol poisoning incident in Laos that claimed multiple lives, including 19-year-old Bianca Jones. The discussion reveals how toxic drinks can slip through safety nets, leaving travelers vulnerable. Day emphasizes the emotional turmoil for families and explores the darker side of illicit alcohol production in Southeast Asia. She also offers essential advice for future travelers on how to avoid such hazards, promoting safe drinking practices.
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Nov 20, 2024 • 15min

Why Putin just changed his rules on nukes

In this discussion, Samir Puri, a former ceasefire observer in Ukraine and an expert on the region, dives into the implications of Russia's claims about Ukraine using U.S.-supplied missiles. He highlights the significance of Putin's new nuclear rules and what they signal for global tensions. Puri also sheds light on the escalating military dynamics at the border and the urgent need for effective strategies amid financial pressures for continued aid. His insights provide a compelling lens on the complexities of the ongoing conflict.
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Nov 19, 2024 • 15min

How Alan Jones lost his power

Jonathan Holmes, former Media Watch host, dives into the fall from grace of Alan Jones, a once-dominant radio figure facing serious legal challenges. Holmes discusses the delayed legal charges against Jones and the reasons behind his dwindling influence. The conversation touches on Jones's controversial comments, particularly about women and climate change, that contributed to his decline. Holmes also sheds light on the shifting media landscape and the impact of advertiser backlash amid serious allegations against Jones.
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Nov 18, 2024 • 14min

Trump’s 'shocking' White House picks

Julia Manchester, a National Political Reporter for The Hill, dives into Donald Trump's unconventional administration picks that have raised eyebrows. She discusses Trump's choice of a vaccine skeptic for Health Secretary and a TV host for Defense. The conversation highlights the controversial nomination of an accused drug and sex offender as Attorney General, examining the implications for party loyalty. Manchester also explores Tulsi Gabbard's potential impact on national intelligence, revealing how these selections reflect Trump's governance style.
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Nov 17, 2024 • 16min

Can Australia cope with 40 million people?

Gareth Hutchens, ABC's business and economics reporter, dives into Australia's impending population boom. He discusses how the nation is on track to reach 40 million, largely driven by immigration amidst falling birth rates. Hutchens emphasizes the urgent need for a comprehensive plan to handle the challenges of housing, water, and climate change. He also grapples with the balance between the economic benefits of a growing population and the potential environmental repercussions. Without strategic foresight, Australia could face significant crises ahead.
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Nov 14, 2024 • 16min

Will Trump back Israel’s expansion?

Hussein Ibish, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, discusses the potential implications of Donald Trump's potential return to the White House for U.S.-Israel relations. He highlights Trump's early support for Israeli annexations and sovereignty claims, particularly over Jerusalem and Golan Heights. The conversation delves into the aspirations of right-wing Israeli factions and the broader implications for peace in the region. Additionally, Ibish critiques the disconnect between proposed luxurious developments in Gaza and the grim realities faced by its residents.
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Nov 13, 2024 • 14min

The book Jamie Oliver shouldn’t have written

Jeanine Leane, a Wiradjuri writer, poet, and Associate Professor at the University of Melbourne, dives into the controversy surrounding Jamie Oliver's children’s novel. She critiques its portrayal of an Aboriginal girl with mystical powers, highlighting the importance of accurate cultural representation. Leane sheds light on the historical context of Australia’s stolen generations and calls for responsible storytelling. Her insights reveal the vital need for authors to engage with Indigenous communities to prevent misrepresentation and cultural appropriation.
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6 snips
Nov 12, 2024 • 15min

Will Trump’s China tariffs trash our economy?

Dr. Susan Stone, the Credit Union SA Chair of Economics, discusses the potential fallout of Trump's return to the White House and the threat of a new trade war with China. She highlights the risks to Australia's economy, including rising inflation and interest rates. Drawing on historical trade conflicts, she explains how tariffs can lead to job losses and increased costs for consumers. Stone offers insights into the intricate global trade dynamics and their ramifications for both the U.S. and Australia, emphasizing the need for cautious optimism.
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Nov 11, 2024 • 15min

Why banning social media isn’t the answer

Susan McLean, a leading cyber safety expert in Australia, discusses the government's proposal to ban under 16s from social media. She highlights the potential risks of such a ban, arguing it could cut off vital support for young people. Instead of restrictions, she advocates for education and digital literacy to navigate online challenges. The conversation also touches on the complexities of cyberbullying, misinformation, and the importance of parental involvement in creating a safer social media environment.

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