Guardian Australia’s political editor, Karen Middleton, speaks with Treasurer Jim Chalmers about his budget balancing act to provide cost-of-living relief without fueling inflation. Topics include strategies for combating inflation, supporting diverse income levels, transitioning to a net-zero economy, mining critical minerals locally, and adjusting budgets in response to economic conditions.

Exploring the impact of smartphones on children's mental health, proposed restrictions, and the debate on socialization. Navigating challenges of managing children's social media use and the unexpected journey of a Bonsai influencer. Tips on fostering healthy social media habits and recommendations for tech coverage.

Editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and political editor Karen Middleton discuss Budget 2024 with a focus on inflation concerns, budget allocations for various sectors, economic uncertainty, housing crisis, clean energy investments, and Australia's economic strategy amidst the political balancing act.

Exploring the dismissal of Queensland Police Service's Indigenous advisory group over a gag clause, highlighting concerns on cultural reforms. Uncovering racist staff recordings at Brisbane Watch House, lack of disciplinary action. Challenges in diversifying police force, delaying independent integrity unit. Highlighting overshadowing domestic violence by juvenile crime, need for urgent reforms.

NSW reporter Catie McLeod discusses a council ban on same-sex parenting books leading to backlash. They talk about heated debates, community beliefs, LGBTQI+ advocates' responses, and the balance between freedom of choice and differing beliefs.

Federal treasurer Jim Chalmers discusses the challenges of the upcoming budget, focusing on cost-of-living crisis and economic hardships. Editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and deputy editor Patrick Keneally analyze the government's strategies to sell their economic management amidst social difficulties.

Journalist Daisy Dumas and activist Caitlin Cassidy discuss the pro-Palestine student encampments at Australian universities, advocating for divestment and ceasefire. They explore the peaceful atmosphere, community support, and contrast with US protests. The students show dedication despite challenges and aim for tangible change.

South Asia correspondent Hannah Ellis-Petersen discusses the popularity and divisiveness of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, logistical challenges in India's parliamentary elections, controversies surrounding Modi's governance, concerns about erosion of democracy, and international implications of Modi's potential re-election.

Erin Patterson, accused of serving deadly mushrooms at a lunch, faces murder charges. The podcast explores the court case, suspicious incidents, and tragic deaths. Police investigate multiple murders and attempted murders. Legal proceedings and challenges in Patterson's case. Reporters reflect on intense media coverage and the emotional impact of alleged murders.

Investigative reporter Sarah Martin discusses the crisis in Australia's education system for disabled children, leading to high suspension rates. The podcast highlights the challenges faced by these children, lack of support, disparities in school funding, and the need for systemic changes to address these issues.