Insiders
ABC News
Every Sunday morning, the ABC's national political lead David Speers unpacks the major stories shaping Australia's future. Each episode includes a major interview with an Australian politician and an extensive discussion with a panel of the country's best journalists. This show will help you understand the major factors behind the decisions and debates driving a national conversation.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jan 31, 2026 • 54min
Inflation spike and leadership infighting
Parliament returns this week – and while the government is bracing for an interest rate rise – both the Liberal and National Parties are riven by infighting.Shadow Treasurer Ted O'Brien joins David Speers.
Jan 24, 2026 • 56min
Parliament returns for emergency laws, as Coalition implodes
For much of the summer, it was the Prime Minister under intense pressure over his response to the Bondi tragedy.Anthony Albanese said the emergency sitting would be a chance to show political unity.Instead the rush to pass a crackdown on guns and hate groups blew up the Coalition.
Dec 6, 2025 • 51min
Australian kids brace for a world-first experiment as they're booted off social media
Australian kids are bracing for a world-first experiment as they're booted off social media, while the parliament winds up after a huge year.
Nov 29, 2025 • 55min
PM ends parliamentary year with a win and a wedding
The Prime Minister ends the parliamentary year with a win and a wedding.
Nov 26, 2025 • 5min
Analysis: The Albanese government has unfinished business
The level of the prime minister's reform appetite has been discussed and debated since roughly 9pm on election night in May, when Labor's massive win became clear.
Nov 22, 2025 • 57min
Sussan Ley tries to survive while the government pushes environmental laws
We're heading into the final week of parliament of the year.The government wants to finish with a win – by passing its overhaul of environment laws.Sussan Ley wants to survive what's known as the killing season.
Nov 15, 2025 • 54min
The Liberal Party takes a huge gamble
The Liberal Party has just taken a huge gamble.In a weakened political position – and under pressure from the Nationals – the net zero target is now gone.
Nov 14, 2025 • 18min
The long road to treaty | Insiders On Background
It’s been a very long road – but Australia’s first treaty with Aboriginal people in Victoria has now been signed and formalised as law.
Nov 8, 2025 • 53min
Coalition net-zero crunch time
After 6 months of agonising – it's crunch time for the Liberal Party, with MPs to thrash out a position on the net-zero climate target this week.
Nov 5, 2025 • 5min
Analysis: Sussan Ley is skating on thin ice
If, as expected, the net zero target is abandoned, the long delay in reaching this point will leave the Liberals looking like they've capitulated once again to the Nationals.
