Background Briefing

When Becc and Nathan decided to get married, they wanted something intimate — a small ceremony at home with just their closest friends and family. There was just one problem — the celebrant wasn't who he appeared to be. 

Michelle went to hospital on three occasions, complaining of searing chest pains. She was told to go home and seek therapy for her "anxiety issues". It would not be until months later that she was diagnosed with pericarditis — doctors believe it was caused by the Pfizer Covid-19 vaccine. She's now one of nearly two thousand people fighting a class action against senior government figures, claiming they were victims of negligence during Australia’s pandemic response.

After a police squad stages a tense siege against a dangerous fugitive, a phone is recovered from the crime scene, carrying vital information. But the detective in charge soon finds himself accused of a serious crime and loses his career over it. For years, he's tried to clear his name. In an exclusive interview with BB, he finally speaks out. His story raises serious concerns about what can go wrong when police investigate police in NSW.

Paddy Manning, Lachlan Murdoch's unofficial biographer and a reporter for Background Briefing, dives deep into the tumultuous dynamics of the Murdoch family. He discusses Lachlan's struggle to dominate the family media empire amidst intense sibling rivalry and a looming court battle. The podcast vividly explores the high-stakes family trust dispute and the implications of Rupert Murdoch's media legacy. With insights into personal relationships tangled with corporate ambitions, Manning reveals the tragedy and complexity behind the Murdoch dynasty.

Lachlan Murdoch, the heir to the Murdoch media empire, shares insights with Paddy Manning, his unofficial biographer. They delve into the fierce rivalry among Lachlan and his siblings for control of their father's legacy. The discussion reveals Lachlan's evolving political identity, balancing his conservative views with personal ambitions. They also explore family dynamics amid scandals, the role of Fox News during election chaos, and the implications of conspiracy theories on public discourse. Lachlan highlights the challenges in leading a controversial empire.

Paddy Manning, Lachlan Murdoch's biographer and journalist, joins Lachlan Murdoch himself, the heir to the Murdoch media empire. They delve into the intense family dynamics at play, revealing Lachlan's not-so-clear path to succession. They discuss a riveting family dinner from 1994, the rivalry between Lachlan and his brother James, and the impact of their upbringing on their careers. With dramatic tales of corporate failures like OneTel and high-stakes social encounters aboard the Arctic P, the tension around Lachlan's legacy unfolds fascinatingly.

Dive into the secretive power struggles within the Murdoch family. Discover Lachlan Murdoch's ambitious plans to take the reins from Rupert amid ongoing court battles. The dynamics of legacy and media scrutiny are examined closely, revealing the tensions that could shape the future of one of the world's most influential families. Will Lachlan's ambitions redefine the Murdoch empire or lead to its downfall?

Dots are so strongly associated with traditional Aboriginal visual language that Shane gets asked why he doesn’t paint them. 

In a caravan park in central NSW, a group of grey nomads were sold a Utopia - a  “home base” to hang up the keys and enjoy “real estate security”. They sunk their life savings into houses in the park, with the ads promising it “couldn’t be sold out from underneath” them. But then, it was. 

There are only two witnesses to Brad Balzan's final moments: the two officers who chased him into his backyard. But their accounts of what happened don't match up.