New Politics: Australian Politics, News, Analysis & Commentaryhttp://www.newpolitics.com.au
Hosted by Eddy Jokovich and David Lewis, New Politics delivers sharp analysis of Australian politics, media narratives and political power – cutting through spin to explain what’s really happening.

/ Twitter @NewpoliticsAU
/ www.patreon.com/newpolitics
/ newpolitics.substack.com
/ www.newpolitics.com.au]]>enNews@New Politicshttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/c660c42121dc6711097ab9e1ed6e4165.jpgNew Politics: Australian Politics, News, Analysis & Commentaryhttp://www.newpolitics.com.auFri, 31 Jul 2026 21:15:20 +0000New PoliticsNew Politicsinfo@newpolitics.com.auThe best analysis and discussion about Australian politics and #auspol news.
Hosted by Eddy Jokovich and David Lewis, New Politics delivers sharp analysis of Australian politics, media narratives and political power – cutting through spin to explain what’s really happening.

/ Twitter @NewpoliticsAU
/ www.patreon.com/newpolitics
/ newpolitics.substack.com
/ www.newpolitics.com.au]]>falseepisodicReclaiming democracy for the peoplehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/reclaiming-democracy-for-the-people--73286335Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73286335Fri, 31 Jul 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAustralian democracy isn’t broken, but political power is increasingly concentrated among wealthy donors, corporate lobbyists and party powerbrokers. From Anthony Albanese’s $10,000-a-head fundraiser to divisions within Labor and the Liberal Party, we...Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1335auspolfalsefullJacinta Allan: Legacy, debt and the end of an erahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jacinta-allan-legacy-debt-and-the-end-of-an-era--73261009Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73261009Thu, 30 Jul 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsJacinta Allan’s resignation ends the Daniel Andrews era and leaves Victorian Labor confronting the political cost of its ambitious Big Build agenda. Despite the achievements  on major infrastructure, housing and an Indigenous Treaty, project delays,...Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1716auspol,vicpolfalsefullBurnham’s Britain: Renewal or more disappointment?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/burnham-s-britain-renewal-or-more-disappointment--73151552Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73151552Fri, 24 Jul 2026 21:00:03 +0000New PoliticsAndy Burnham’s arrival as British prime minister will test whether a modern Labour government can finally break with Thatcherism and neoliberalism by tackling the cost-of-living crisis, expanding social housing, rebuilding public services and...Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1384auspol,burnhamfalsefullThe Hanson Battler Mythhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-hanson-battler-myth--73127610Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73127610Thu, 23 Jul 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsOne Nation’s falling support is exposing the gap between Pauline Hanson’s media profile and electoral credibility. Her European roadshow offered culture-war attacks on multiculturalism, migration, transgender people and net zero, but no solutions to...Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1776auspolfalsefullThe price of speaking out: Art, Palestine and the MSOhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-price-of-speaking-out-art-palestine-and-the-mso--73028752Witness to Palestinian journalists killed in Gaza, the MSO cancelled his performances, revealing how quickly free expression can become conditional when donors, boards and commercial reputations are involved. We examine the court ruling, apparent double standards within Australia’s cultural institutions and the chilling message it sends to artists: political expression is tolerated – until it challenges the wrong interests. #AUSPOL
Support New Politics:
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73028752Fri, 17 Jul 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe Federal Court might have ended pianist Jayson Gillham’s legal battle with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, but the controversy raises broader questions about artistic freedom, political censorship and Palestine advocacy in Australia. After...Witness to Palestinian journalists killed in Gaza, the MSO cancelled his performances, revealing how quickly free expression can become conditional when donors, boards and commercial reputations are involved. We examine the court ruling, apparent double standards within Australia’s cultural institutions and the chilling message it sends to artists: political expression is tolerated – until it challenges the wrong interests. #AUSPOL
Support New Politics:
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1166auspolfalsefullThe Royal Commission and silencing the critics of Israelhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-royal-commission-and-silencing-the-critics-of-israel--73015709Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/73015709Thu, 16 Jul 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAustralia’s Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion was created to confront genuine antisemitism, but is it instead silencing criticism of Israel and deepening division? We examine the uneven treatment of Zionist, progressive Jewish and...Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1750auspolfalsefullChina’s missile launch and Australia’s panic merchantshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/china-s-missile-launch-and-australia-s-panic-merchants--72917042Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  
Support New Politics: 
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com  
Song listing:
‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72917042Fri, 10 Jul 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsChina's latest missile test triggered familiar warnings of an escalating security crisis, but was the reaction driven more by geopolitics than by the launch itself? This episode examines Australia's response, the role of the United States in shaping...Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  
Support New Politics: 
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com  
Song listing:
‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.]]>1162auspolfalsefullLabor’s power without purpose: Who does Labor govern for?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/labor-s-power-without-purpose-who-does-labor-govern-for--72892185Support New Politics: 


Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
  • ‘Bagi-la-m Bargan (Fighting Boomerang)’, Birdz.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72892185Thu, 09 Jul 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe NSW Labor Conference exposed a deeper question confronting Australian politics: what does the modern Labor Party actually stand for? As delegates debated gambling reform, housing affordability, civil liberties and Gaza, controversy over the...Support New Politics: 


Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
  • ‘Bagi-la-m Bargan (Fighting Boomerang)’, Birdz.
]]>1598auspolfalsefullThe Politics of Outrage: When anger becomes the business modelhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-politics-of-outrage-when-anger-becomes-the-business-model--72803107Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  
Support New Politics: 


Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
  • ‘Rise’, Public Image Limited
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72803107Fri, 03 Jul 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe politics of outrage has become one of the most powerful business models in modern media, with podcasts, social media and algorithms increasingly rewarding anger, conflict and culture wars over evidence and public interest. We examine how...Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  
Support New Politics: 


Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
  • ‘Rise’, Public Image Limited
]]>1447auspolfalsefullThe Liberal Party’s winter of irrelevance: Can it recover?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-liberal-party-s-winter-of-irrelevance-can-it-recover--72790905Support New Politics:



Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72790905Thu, 02 Jul 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsWhy is the Liberal Party struggling to reconnect with Australian voters? This week, we examine Angus Taylor’s leadership, the Liberal Party’s identity crisis, and why rebranding cannot reverse decades of political decline. From the loss of moderate...Support New Politics:



Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>2082auspolfalsefullStarmer’s downfall should be a warning sign for Albanesehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/starmer-s-downfall-should-be-a-warning-sign-for-albanese--72691131Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72691131Thu, 25 Jun 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsKeir Starmer's resignation after just 18 months as British Prime Minister raises important questions for centre-left governments across the democratic world. We examine the striking parallels between Labour in the UK and Labor in Australia, exploring...Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1935auspol,ukpolfalsefullHow America lost the warhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-america-lost-the-war--72601408#AUSPOL
Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72601408Fri, 19 Jun 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsFor years, the United States and Israel argued that war with Iran was inevitable, but after four months of conflict, soaring oil prices, disruption to the Strait of Hormuz and global economic uncertainty, Iran has emerged stronger while many of...#AUSPOL
Support New Politics: 
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  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1434auspol,iranfalsefullHanson and the politics of hatehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hanson-and-the-politics-of-hate--72580961Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72580961Thu, 18 Jun 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsPauline Hanson’s National Press Club appearance revealed that the politics of grievance, culture wars and division remain central to One Nation’s appeal. As voters continue to face cost-of-living pressures, housing affordability and a declining trust...Support New Politics: 
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1963auspolfalsefullThe One Nation poll surge: Protest or a passing fad?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-one-nation-poll-surge-protest-or-a-passing-fad--72500834#AUSPOL
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72500834Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsRecent opinion polls showing One Nation leading the primary vote have sparked debate about the future of Australian politics, but the bigger story may be the growing dissatisfaction with Labor, the Coalition and the political establishment itself. As...#AUSPOL
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1320auspolfalsefullIs Israel heading towards AUKUS? The bigger story behind the submarineshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/is-israel-heading-towards-aukus-the-bigger-story-behind-the-submarines--72477710
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  
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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72477710Thu, 11 Jun 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsFor years, the debate over AUKUS has focused on submarines, costs and delivery schedules, but the bigger story may be Australia’s growing integration into American military and defence systems. This week, we examine new legislation before the US...
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  
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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>2031aukus,auspolfalsefullDiscarding human rights for the sake of Israelhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/discarding-human-rights-for-the-sake-of-israel--72367350
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72367350Fri, 05 Jun 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe Albanese government frequently presents Australia as a defender of international law, human rights and the rules-based international order, but does that commitment extend to all nations equally? This week, we examine serious allegations of sexual...
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1034auspol,gazafalsefullAUKUS: The $368 billion submarine miragehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/aukus-the-368-billion-submarine-mirage--72341528#AUKUS #Auspol #DefencePolicy #NuclearSubmarines #NationalSecurity #NewPoliticsPodcast

Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  

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  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72341528Thu, 04 Jun 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAUKUS was sold as a transformational defence agreement that would deliver a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines and strengthen Australia's security for decades to come. Nearly five years later, the promised new submarines have become second-hand...#AUKUS #Auspol #DefencePolicy #NuclearSubmarines #NationalSecurity #NewPoliticsPodcast

Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1559aukus,auspol,defencepolicyfalsefullIntegrity on hold: The crisis facing the National Anti-Corruption Commissionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/integrity-on-hold-the-crisis-facing-the-national-anti-corruption-commission--72225365
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72225365Fri, 29 May 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe resignation of NACC commissioner Paul Brereton has reignited debate about whether Australia’s federal anti-corruption watchdog is capable of delivering the accountability it promised. Created by the Albanese government in response to scandals...
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1345auspolfalsefullThe Teal Party of Australia: Will it take off?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-teal-party-of-australia-will-it-take-off--72207769
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72207769Thu, 28 May 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe teal independents transformed Australian politics by offering moderate urban voters an alternative to the Liberal Party’s culture-war politics under Scott Morrison and Peter Dutton, combining climate action, integrity and economic conservatism...
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1889auspolfalsefullThe continuing Budget fallout: A political war over housing and wealthhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-continuing-budget-fallout-a-political-war-over-housing-and-wealth--72114486
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72114486Fri, 22 May 2026 21:00:07 +0000New PoliticsThe debate surrounding Australia’s 2026 Budget has rapidly evolved into a broader political battle over housing affordability, negative gearing, wealth inequality and the future direction of the Australian economy. In this episode, we examine how...
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au  

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1257auspol,budget2026falsefullThe Royal Commission, Palestine and the clampdown on free speechhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-royal-commission-palestine-and-the-clampdown-on-free-speech--72096849
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72096849Thu, 21 May 2026 21:00:03 +0000New PoliticsAustralia’s Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion is becoming a major political flashpoint over free speech, Israel and Palestine, civil liberties and political dissent. We examine how accusations of antisemitism are increasingly...
Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au

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Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1397antisemitism,auspol,israel,palestinefalsefullOne Nation and the implosion of the Liberal Partyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/one-nation-and-the-implosion-of-the-liberal-party--72022012Support New Politics:
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72022012Fri, 15 May 2026 21:00:03 +0000New PoliticsThe shock result in the Farrer byelection has exposed a deep crisis inside Australian conservatism, with One Nation winning its first ever federal lower-house seat as the Liberal Party’s vote collapsed from 43 per cent to just 12 per cent in barely a...Support New Politics:
Song listing:
  • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
]]>1751auspolfalsefullMost radical budget since Whitlam? Housing reform and the future of the economyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/most-radical-budget-since-whitlam-housing-reform-and-the-future-of-the-economy--72007300
  • Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au
    • Labor’s 2026 federal Budget has sparked fierce backlash from conservative commentators, with critics labelling it everything from a “Whitlam budget” to “Marxism” after modest reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax. We examine Australia’s worsening housing affordability crisis, the political legacy of the 2019 election scare campaign, and why Labor remains caught between addressing inequality and preserving the neoliberal economic system that has dominated Australian politics for decades. Plus, we unpack the contradictions in the Budget itself – including limited cost-of-living relief, NDIS cuts, defence spending, mining profits, corporate tax concessions, and the Liberal Party’s response led by Angus Taylor – as Australia’s political debate shifts in ways the conservative establishment increasingly struggles to contain. #AUSPOL #Budget2026
    Support New Politics:
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72007300Thu, 14 May 2026 21:00:02 +0000New Politics- Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: http://www.newpolitics.com.au Labor’s 2026 federal Budget has sparked fierce backlash from conservative commentators, with critics labelling it everything from a “Whitlam budget” to...
  • Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au
    • Labor’s 2026 federal Budget has sparked fierce backlash from conservative commentators, with critics labelling it everything from a “Whitlam budget” to “Marxism” after modest reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax. We examine Australia’s worsening housing affordability crisis, the political legacy of the 2019 election scare campaign, and why Labor remains caught between addressing inequality and preserving the neoliberal economic system that has dominated Australian politics for decades. Plus, we unpack the contradictions in the Budget itself – including limited cost-of-living relief, NDIS cuts, defence spending, mining profits, corporate tax concessions, and the Liberal Party’s response led by Angus Taylor – as Australia’s political debate shifts in ways the conservative establishment increasingly struggles to contain. #AUSPOL #Budget2026
    Support New Politics:
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    2267australianeconomy,australianpolitics,budget2026,capitalgainstax,costofliving,federalbudget,housingaffordability,housingcrisis,jimchalmers,laborparty,ndis,negativegearing,neoliberalism,newpoliticspodcastfalsefull    What did they know? Secrets, silence and the Bondi failureshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-did-they-know-secrets-silence-and-the-bondi-failures--71908694
  • Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au 
    • In this episode, we examine the interim findings of the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion following the Bondi Beach attacks, exploring major questions surrounding ASIO, the Australian Federal Police and intelligence failures in Australia. We discuss allegations that the Bondi attackers had been monitored by ASIO since 2019, the parallels with the 2014 Lindt Café siege, and growing concerns about national security secrecy, surveillance powers, democratic accountability and civil liberties. We also analyse whether the Royal Commission’s focus on antisemitism and social cohesion risks shifting attention away from deeper institutional failures, while examining the broader debate around protest rights, free speech, pro-Palestine activism and the balance between security and democracy in Australian politics. #AUSPOL  

    www.newpolitics.com.au

    Support New Politics: 
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71908694Thu, 07 May 2026 21:00:02 +0000New Politics- Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: http://www.newpolitics.com.au  In this episode, we examine the interim findings of the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion following the Bondi Beach attacks,...
  • Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au 
    • In this episode, we examine the interim findings of the Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion following the Bondi Beach attacks, exploring major questions surrounding ASIO, the Australian Federal Police and intelligence failures in Australia. We discuss allegations that the Bondi attackers had been monitored by ASIO since 2019, the parallels with the 2014 Lindt Café siege, and growing concerns about national security secrecy, surveillance powers, democratic accountability and civil liberties. We also analyse whether the Royal Commission’s focus on antisemitism and social cohesion risks shifting attention away from deeper institutional failures, while examining the broader debate around protest rights, free speech, pro-Palestine activism and the balance between security and democracy in Australian politics. #AUSPOL  

    www.newpolitics.com.au

    Support New Politics: 
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    2204auspolfalsefull    Where the truth goes to die: Trump’s chaos and the politics of distrusthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/where-the-truth-goes-to-die-trump-s-chaos-and-the-politics-of-distrust--71814769
  • Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au 
    • In this episode, we examine the latest incident involving Donald Trump, framed as an assassination attempt but unfolding in an era of “fake news”, disinformation and collapsing public trust, where conspiracy theories and official narratives blur into one. We explore how Trump’s crisis-driven political strategy weaponises chaos, using events to attack Democrats and justify controversial policies, including a $400 million White House ballroom project raising concerns about surveillance and executive power, while placing this within the broader context of aggressive US foreign policy. We also analyse the global fallout, from rising tensions within NATO to growing uncertainty around AUKUS, highlighted by the high-stakes White House visit of King Charles III. As the United States approaches key midterm elections, we ask whether constant political instability, voter fatigue and the normalisation of chaos will push American democracy toward a breaking point. #AUSPOL  

    www.newpolitics.com.au

    Support New Politics:
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71814769Fri, 01 May 2026 21:00:03 +0000New Politics- Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: http://www.newpolitics.com.au  In this episode, we examine the latest incident involving Donald Trump, framed as an assassination attempt but unfolding in an era of “fake news”,...
  • Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au 
    • In this episode, we examine the latest incident involving Donald Trump, framed as an assassination attempt but unfolding in an era of “fake news”, disinformation and collapsing public trust, where conspiracy theories and official narratives blur into one. We explore how Trump’s crisis-driven political strategy weaponises chaos, using events to attack Democrats and justify controversial policies, including a $400 million White House ballroom project raising concerns about surveillance and executive power, while placing this within the broader context of aggressive US foreign policy. We also analyse the global fallout, from rising tensions within NATO to growing uncertainty around AUKUS, highlighted by the high-stakes White House visit of King Charles III. As the United States approaches key midterm elections, we ask whether constant political instability, voter fatigue and the normalisation of chaos will push American democracy toward a breaking point. #AUSPOL  

    www.newpolitics.com.au

    Support New Politics:
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1136auspolfalsefull    Anzac Day hijacked: Culture wars at dawnhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/anzac-day-hijacked-culture-wars-at-dawn--71778600www.newpolitics.com.au   This week, we discuss the growing Anzac Day culture war in Australia, from booing at Dawn Services and Welcome to Country ceremonies to the rising influence of right-wing groups like Advance Australia and Fight for Australia, and ask how a solemn commemoration of the 8,700 Australians who died at Gallipoli has been reshaped into a platform for right-wing political messaging, identity politics and nationalist rhetoric. We examine the role of Gina Rinehart and the impact of media power, political donations and organisations such as the Institute of Public Affairs, the Liberal Party and One Nation in redefining Anzac Day, while contrasting this with the working-class origins of the original Anzacs and the often-overlooked service of more than 1,300 Indigenous Australians in World War I. As Anzac Day becomes increasingly politicised and resistant to criticism, we explore whether it can remain a respectful national day of remembrance or if it has been captured by ideological interests shaping Australia’s political and cultural debate.  #AUSPOL 

    www.newpolitics.com.au  

    Support New Politics: 
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    • ‘No More Heroes’, Asgeir (The Stranglers).
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71778600Thu, 30 Apr 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsSubscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: http://www.newpolitics.com.au   This week, we discuss the growing Anzac Day culture war in Australia, from booing at Dawn Services and Welcome to Country ceremonies to the rising...www.newpolitics.com.au   This week, we discuss the growing Anzac Day culture war in Australia, from booing at Dawn Services and Welcome to Country ceremonies to the rising influence of right-wing groups like Advance Australia and Fight for Australia, and ask how a solemn commemoration of the 8,700 Australians who died at Gallipoli has been reshaped into a platform for right-wing political messaging, identity politics and nationalist rhetoric. We examine the role of Gina Rinehart and the impact of media power, political donations and organisations such as the Institute of Public Affairs, the Liberal Party and One Nation in redefining Anzac Day, while contrasting this with the working-class origins of the original Anzacs and the often-overlooked service of more than 1,300 Indigenous Australians in World War I. As Anzac Day becomes increasingly politicised and resistant to criticism, we explore whether it can remain a respectful national day of remembrance or if it has been captured by ideological interests shaping Australia’s political and cultural debate.  #AUSPOL 

    www.newpolitics.com.au  

    Support New Politics: 
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    • ‘No More Heroes’, Asgeir (The Stranglers).
    ]]>    1738auspolfalsefull    Taxing gas: How Australia is losing $20 billion a yearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/taxing-gas-how-australia-is-losing-20-billion-a-year--71613683
  • Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au
    • Today on the New Politics podcast, we examine Australia’s stalled debate over a 25% gas export tax and why major tax reform continues to be blocked despite strong economic evidence and growing public support, with many experts warning the nation is getting a poor return on its natural resources. A gas export tax could raise around $20 billion a year to fund health, education, the NDIS, housing and essential public services, yet remains politically sidelined due to the influence of the gas lobby and entrenched vested interests. We explore the ongoing failure to deliver structural reform, including hesitation around negative gearing, and assess whether the Albanese government has the political will to act ahead of the federal Budget, or if Australia will once again miss its chance to secure a fairer tax system and ensure Australians benefit from their own resources. #AUSPOL

    www.newpolitics.com.au

    Support New Politics:
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71613683Fri, 24 Apr 2026 22:00:02 +0000New Politics- Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: http://www.newpolitics.com.au Today on the New Politics podcast, we examine Australia’s stalled debate over a 25% gas export tax and why major tax reform continues to be blocked...
  • Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au
    • Today on the New Politics podcast, we examine Australia’s stalled debate over a 25% gas export tax and why major tax reform continues to be blocked despite strong economic evidence and growing public support, with many experts warning the nation is getting a poor return on its natural resources. A gas export tax could raise around $20 billion a year to fund health, education, the NDIS, housing and essential public services, yet remains politically sidelined due to the influence of the gas lobby and entrenched vested interests. We explore the ongoing failure to deliver structural reform, including hesitation around negative gearing, and assess whether the Albanese government has the political will to act ahead of the federal Budget, or if Australia will once again miss its chance to secure a fairer tax system and ensure Australians benefit from their own resources. #AUSPOL

    www.newpolitics.com.au

    Support New Politics:
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1327auspolfalsefull    Australia protest laws, NDIS cuts and AUKUS defence spending explainedhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/australia-protest-laws-ndis-cuts-and-aukus-defence-spending-explained--71588836
  • Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au 
    • This week on the New Politics podcast, we examine Australia’s escalating crackdown on protest rights after arrests in Brisbane over the phrase “from the river to the sea,” raising serious concerns about free speech, anti-protest laws, and democratic freedoms. We explore how legislation in Queensland and New South Wales is targeting pro-Palestine activism, the role of political figures like David Crisafulli and Chris Minns, and why unconstitutional laws are being struck down by the courts. We also connect these issues to rising defence spending, the $368 billion AUKUS deal, cuts to the NDIS, and Australia’s deepening alignment with US foreign policy, highlighting growing questions about sovereignty, accountability, and national priorities. 
    #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics:
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71588836Thu, 23 Apr 2026 21:00:02 +0000New Politics- Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: http://www.newpolitics.com.au  This week on the New Politics podcast, we examine Australia’s escalating crackdown on protest rights after arrests in Brisbane over the phrase “from the...
  • Subscribe to New Politics for weekly briefings and full analysis: www.newpolitics.com.au 
    • This week on the New Politics podcast, we examine Australia’s escalating crackdown on protest rights after arrests in Brisbane over the phrase “from the river to the sea,” raising serious concerns about free speech, anti-protest laws, and democratic freedoms. We explore how legislation in Queensland and New South Wales is targeting pro-Palestine activism, the role of political figures like David Crisafulli and Chris Minns, and why unconstitutional laws are being struck down by the courts. We also connect these issues to rising defence spending, the $368 billion AUKUS deal, cuts to the NDIS, and Australia’s deepening alignment with US foreign policy, highlighting growing questions about sovereignty, accountability, and national priorities. 
    #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics:
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    2387auspolfalsefull    Green populism, come on down! Your time has comehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/green-populism-come-on-down-your-time-has-come--71404462
    www.newpolitics.com.au

    Support New Politics:

    Song listing:
    • ‘A Whisper’, Coldplay.
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71404462Fri, 17 Apr 2026 21:00:04 +0000New PoliticsPopulism in Australian politics is usually framed as a right-wing force led by figures like Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce, but this episode explores the potential of left-wing populism and the role of the Australian Greens. We unpack populism as a...
    www.newpolitics.com.au

    Support New Politics:

    Song listing:
    • ‘A Whisper’, Coldplay.
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1231auspolfalsefull    Immigration politics in Australia: The Noble Migrant and Subversive Intenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/immigration-politics-in-australia-the-noble-migrant-and-subversive-intent--71368222
    Angus Taylor and the Liberal Party are moving away from economic management and towards nationalism and divisive immigration rhetoric, despite these strategies being rejected at the 2025 federal election, and this mirrors global conservative trends from Donald Trump in the US to Reform UK and Viktor Orbán in Hungary. We explore the risks to civil liberties, freedom of speech and political bias, question who defines “Australian values” in a multicultural society, and look at the targeting of Muslim communities, pro-Palestinian voices and non-European migrants.

    With analysis of recent election results, including the South Australian election, we assess whether attempts to outflank One Nation will only legitimise fringe politics and split the conservative vote, arguing that voters are increasingly rejecting fear-driven narratives in favour of real economic and social solutions. #AUSPOL

    www.newpolitics.com.au

    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    • ‘Yesterday’s Gone’, Beth Orton & William Orbit.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71368222Thu, 16 Apr 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAustralia’s immigration debate is entering dangerous territory, with the Coalition’s proposed “values-based” migration system – featuring social media surveillance and ideological vetting – highlighting a shift towards right-wing populism, culture...
    Angus Taylor and the Liberal Party are moving away from economic management and towards nationalism and divisive immigration rhetoric, despite these strategies being rejected at the 2025 federal election, and this mirrors global conservative trends from Donald Trump in the US to Reform UK and Viktor Orbán in Hungary. We explore the risks to civil liberties, freedom of speech and political bias, question who defines “Australian values” in a multicultural society, and look at the targeting of Muslim communities, pro-Palestinian voices and non-European migrants.

    With analysis of recent election results, including the South Australian election, we assess whether attempts to outflank One Nation will only legitimise fringe politics and split the conservative vote, arguing that voters are increasingly rejecting fear-driven narratives in favour of real economic and social solutions. #AUSPOL

    www.newpolitics.com.au

    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    • ‘Yesterday’s Gone’, Beth Orton & William Orbit.
    ]]>    2224auspolfalsefull    War Crimes and the Cost of Blind Loyaltyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/war-crimes-and-the-cost-of-blind-loyalty--71234759
    www.newpolitics.com.au 

    #AUSPOL 

    Support New Politics:

    Song listing:
    • ‘War’, Frankie Goes To Hollywood.
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71234759Fri, 10 Apr 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe arrest of Ben Roberts-Smith on five counts of alleged war crimes has reignited a fierce debate in Australian politics over military accountability, the rule of law and the legacy of the Afghanistan war. We look at the political, legal and cultural...
    www.newpolitics.com.au 

    #AUSPOL 

    Support New Politics:

    Song listing:
    • ‘War’, Frankie Goes To Hollywood.
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    823auspolfalsefull    Cash From Chaos: The Business of Warhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cash-from-chaos-the-business-of-war--71210960
    #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    • ‘Satellite Anthem Icarus’, Boards Of Canada.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71210960Thu, 09 Apr 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsA fragile ceasefire between the United States, Israel and Iran has paused one of the most dangerous conflicts of 2026, but beneath the headlines lies a deeper question: who profits from war? In this episode, we examine the economics of war, the...
    #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    • ‘Satellite Anthem Icarus’, Boards Of Canada.
    ]]>    2143auspol,iranfalsefull    The first cracks in the façade of neoliberalismhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-first-cracks-in-the-facade-of-neoliberalism--71132431
    We explore the broader implications for economic reform, Australia’s alliance with the United States, and criticism of Donald Trump, alongside shifting global power dynamics from John Curtin to the rise of China and blocs like BRICS. As Australia faces declining manufacturing and structural inequality, this episode asks whether neoliberalism is finally unravelling and what it means for Australia’s economic future, political leadership, and role in a changing global order.   #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics:
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71132431Mon, 06 Apr 2026 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe first cracks in the façade of neoliberalism are emerging in Australian politics, as Andrew Hastie breaks ranks to criticise an economic model driving inequality, stagnant wages, and Australia’s worsening housing crisis. In this episode, we examine...
    We explore the broader implications for economic reform, Australia’s alliance with the United States, and criticism of Donald Trump, alongside shifting global power dynamics from John Curtin to the rise of China and blocs like BRICS. As Australia faces declining manufacturing and structural inequality, this episode asks whether neoliberalism is finally unravelling and what it means for Australia’s economic future, political leadership, and role in a changing global order.   #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics:
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    786auspol,neoliberalismfalsefull    Australia Pays the Price for Trump’s Warhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/australia-pays-the-price-for-trump-s-war--71079629
    We also examine how Albanese’s support for US military action has left him politically exposed as fuel prices surge and cost-of-living pressures intensify, forcing a $2.6 billion fuel excise cut, while deeper questions emerge about Australia’s sovereignty, its alliance with the United States and a renewed “deputy sheriff” mindset.

    The episode also explores the impact of Israel–Palestine debate restrictions, free speech concerns, censorship, the IHRA definition of antisemitism, and the role of the media, including the National Press Club, asking whether Australia is maintaining an independent path or drifting towards a US-style political identity.   #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics: 


    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71079629Fri, 03 Apr 2026 20:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAs tensions escalate across the Middle East and Western Asia, rising petrol prices, economic uncertainty and growing political pressure on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese are hitting Australia, with this episode looking at how the war against Iran, US...
    We also examine how Albanese’s support for US military action has left him politically exposed as fuel prices surge and cost-of-living pressures intensify, forcing a $2.6 billion fuel excise cut, while deeper questions emerge about Australia’s sovereignty, its alliance with the United States and a renewed “deputy sheriff” mindset.

    The episode also explores the impact of Israel–Palestine debate restrictions, free speech concerns, censorship, the IHRA definition of antisemitism, and the role of the media, including the National Press Club, asking whether Australia is maintaining an independent path or drifting towards a US-style political identity.   #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics: 


    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    2743auspol,iranfalsefull    The Democrats return? Leonie Green and Australia’s next political disruptionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-democrats-return-leonie-green-and-australia-s-next-political-disruption--70916267David Lewis speaks with Australian Democrats President Leonie Green about the party’s push to return to Parliament, its strategy for the Victorian election and the Senate, and the structural barriers facing minor parties in Australian politics. We also explore the dominance of Labor, the decline of the Coalition, the rise of independents and One Nation, and the continuing debate over whether there is room for a pragmatic centrist party focused on accountability, electoral reform, and keeping the bastards honest in a volatile new era of Australian democracy. #AUSPOL  

    Support New Politics: 
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70916267Fri, 27 Mar 2026 20:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we examine whether the political fragmentation that has transformed Australia’s right could eventually spread to the progressive centre-left, and whether the Australian Democrats could play a role in that shift. David Lewis speaks...David Lewis speaks with Australian Democrats President Leonie Green about the party’s push to return to Parliament, its strategy for the Victorian election and the Senate, and the structural barriers facing minor parties in Australian politics. We also explore the dominance of Labor, the decline of the Coalition, the rise of independents and One Nation, and the continuing debate over whether there is room for a pragmatic centrist party focused on accountability, electoral reform, and keeping the bastards honest in a volatile new era of Australian democracy. #AUSPOL  

    Support New Politics: 
    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1997auspol,australiandemocratsfalsefull    The mirage of the One Nation surgehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-mirage-of-the-one-nation-surge--70894272
    We examine how Australia’s preferential voting system works, why minor parties like One Nation and the Australian Greens struggle to convert votes into seats, and whether electoral reform or proportional representation could deliver a more representative democracy.

    We also analyse the media’s role in amplifying right-wing populism, the shifting dynamics within the conservative vote, and what these results mean for the future of Australian politics, including Labor’s dominance, the potential for political realignment, and the growing fragmentation of the party system.   #AUSPOL  

    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70894272Thu, 26 Mar 2026 20:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe South Australian election has reshaped Australian politics – but not in the way the mainstream media suggests. In this episode, we break down Labor’s landslide victory under Premier Peter Malinauskas, the collapse of the Liberal Party, and the...
    We examine how Australia’s preferential voting system works, why minor parties like One Nation and the Australian Greens struggle to convert votes into seats, and whether electoral reform or proportional representation could deliver a more representative democracy.

    We also analyse the media’s role in amplifying right-wing populism, the shifting dynamics within the conservative vote, and what these results mean for the future of Australian politics, including Labor’s dominance, the potential for political realignment, and the growing fragmentation of the party system.   #AUSPOL  

    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    2466auspol,savotesfalsefull    The Collapse of Trust: War, Censorship and Political Failurehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-collapse-of-trust-war-censorship-and-political-failure--70779263
    Support New Politics:


    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70779263Fri, 20 Mar 2026 20:00:03 +0000New PoliticsAustralia is facing a growing crisis of trust as global conflict, economic pressure and political failure collide, with the war in Iran driving inflation, influencing interest rates and exposing how distant decision-making is from everyday...
    Support New Politics:


    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1424auspolfalsefull    The Politics of Oil, War, Inflation and the Economic Squeezehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-politics-of-oil-war-inflation-and-the-economic-squeeze--70746063
    We connect the chaos of military strategy with Donald Trump’s “America First” trade policies, showing how geopolitical instability is driving oil price volatility and economic uncertainty. There’s also the unintended consequences for global technology supply chains, AI development, and Taiwan’s semiconductor production, alongside a shift away from US-led co-ordination as countries secure their own energy deals.

    Australia is now on the front line of a global crisis it didn’t create, but what does this all mean for our economic future, including energy policy, renewable transition, and structural reform?   #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics: 


    Song listing: 
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70746063Thu, 19 Mar 2026 20:00:02 +0000New PoliticsA global oil shock is shaking the world economy – caused by the US and Israel – and Australia is already feeling the impact, with petrol prices pushing towards $3 per litre, rising inflation, higher interest rates, and growing fears of a recession. In...
    We connect the chaos of military strategy with Donald Trump’s “America First” trade policies, showing how geopolitical instability is driving oil price volatility and economic uncertainty. There’s also the unintended consequences for global technology supply chains, AI development, and Taiwan’s semiconductor production, alongside a shift away from US-led co-ordination as countries secure their own energy deals.

    Australia is now on the front line of a global crisis it didn’t create, but what does this all mean for our economic future, including energy policy, renewable transition, and structural reform?   #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics: 


    Song listing: 
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    2291auspol,iran,trumpfalsefull    The splintering of Australian politicshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-splintering-of-australian-politics--70622634
    Support New Politics:

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70622634Fri, 13 Mar 2026 20:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAustralian politics is going through a new era of political realignment as the centre-right fragments and the traditional two-party system begins to fall apart. In this episode, we examine the leadership change in the National Party, with Matt Canavan...
    Support New Politics:

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1303auspolfalsefull    Iran: America is at war, so Australia is at warhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/iran-america-is-at-war-so-australia-is-at-war--70609756
    As tensions rise following US strikes on Iran, the episode explores the weakening of the post-World War II order, the challenge posed by emerging powers such as China, Russia and the BRICS bloc, and the influence of ideology in American foreign policy.

    We also analyse Australia’s expanding defence integration with the United States through AUKUS, the deployment of Australian Defence Force personnel to the region, and the deeper question confronting Canberra: does Australia truly have strategic independence, or is it permanently tied to Washington’s global conflicts?   #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics:


    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70609756Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:00:03 +0000New PoliticsWhat happens when a global superpower launches a military operation intended to demonstrate dominance but instead reveals the limits of its power? In this episode, we examine the escalating US–Iran conflict, the shifting balance of power in the Middle...
    As tensions rise following US strikes on Iran, the episode explores the weakening of the post-World War II order, the challenge posed by emerging powers such as China, Russia and the BRICS bloc, and the influence of ideology in American foreign policy.

    We also analyse Australia’s expanding defence integration with the United States through AUKUS, the deployment of Australian Defence Force personnel to the region, and the deeper question confronting Canberra: does Australia truly have strategic independence, or is it permanently tied to Washington’s global conflicts?   #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics:


    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1803auspol,iranfalsefull    War is Peace? The Iran escalationhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/war-is-peace-the-iran-escalation--70481912  #AUSPOL  

    Support New Politics: 


    Song listing: 
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70481912Fri, 06 Mar 2026 20:00:03 +0000New PoliticsIsrael and the United States have launched another attack on Iran, dramatically escalating tensions across the Middle East and raising serious questions about international law, global stability and the credibility of the so-called rules-based...  #AUSPOL  

    Support New Politics: 


    Song listing: 
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    2115falsefull    The Board of Peace and the Business of Warhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-board-of-peace-and-the-business-of-war--70333276  #AUSPOL  

    Support New Politics: 



    Song listing: 
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    • ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, Boards Of Canada.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70333276Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:00:11 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we examine Donald Trump’s proposed “Board of Peace” and what it means for Gaza, Palestine, Israel and the future of international law. Promoted as a reconstruction and peacekeeping plan after the devastation of Gaza since October...  #AUSPOL  

    Support New Politics: 



    Song listing: 
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    • ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, Boards Of Canada.
    ]]>    1204auspol,boardofpeacefalsefull    Liberal Party reboot: Same message, same mistakes?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/liberal-party-reboot-same-message-same-mistakes--70150594
    Support New Politics: 



    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70150594Thu, 19 Feb 2026 20:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we examine the new Shadow Cabinet and ask whether the Liberal Party’s latest leadership change represents genuine renewal or simply a rebranding of the same conservative messaging that led to heavy defeats in the 2022 and 2025 federal...
    Support New Politics: 



    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    2360auspolfalsefull    Dire straits: Can Taylor stop the Liberal Party collapse?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/dire-straits-can-taylor-stop-the-liberal-party-collapse--70041345
    Support New Politics:

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70041345Fri, 13 Feb 2026 20:00:02 +0000New PoliticsToday on New Politics, we explore the escalating crisis inside the Liberal Party following the leadership elevation of Angus Taylor and ask whether the Coalition can recover from its devastating 2025 federal election defeat. With internal splits over...
    Support New Politics:

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1861auspolfalsefull    When a war criminal comes to townhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-a-war-criminal-comes-to-town--69978555  #AUSPOL  

    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69978555Wed, 11 Feb 2026 20:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThis today’s episode of the New Politics podcast, we explore the political firestorm surrounding Israeli President Isaac Herzog’s visit to Sydney and why it became a nationwide flashpoint over Gaza, free speech, protest rights and Australia’s foreign...  #AUSPOL  

    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1147auspol,herzognotwelcomefalsefull    Thought Crimes and Punishmenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/thought-crimes-and-punishment--69685345
    Will accusing the Israeli government of genocide, war crimes or apartheid against Palestinians now be deemed unlawful if offence is claimed? And what this means for journalists, activists, podcasters and ordinary citizens?

    We also look at the political pressure behind the laws, including lobbying around the IHRA definition of antisemitism, selective enforcement against pro-Palestine protests, the cancellation of cultural events such as the Adelaide Writers’ Festival, and growing fears that subjective feelings are being elevated over democratic rights as Australia moves toward policing dissent rather than defending it. #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing: 
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69685345Thu, 05 Feb 2026 20:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we examine Australia’s newly passed anti-hate speech laws and ask when protecting communities crosses the line into criminalising dissent. Rushed through parliament after the Bondi terror attack, the legislation introduces the vague...
    Will accusing the Israeli government of genocide, war crimes or apartheid against Palestinians now be deemed unlawful if offence is claimed? And what this means for journalists, activists, podcasters and ordinary citizens?

    We also look at the political pressure behind the laws, including lobbying around the IHRA definition of antisemitism, selective enforcement against pro-Palestine protests, the cancellation of cultural events such as the Adelaide Writers’ Festival, and growing fears that subjective feelings are being elevated over democratic rights as Australia moves toward policing dissent rather than defending it. #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing: 
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1706auspolfalsefull    America’s greatest threat: The United Stateshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/america-s-greatest-threat-the-united-states--69665417
    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69665417Thu, 29 Jan 2026 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we examine growing global concern over the United States as political instability and erratic leadership under President Donald Trump increasingly undermine the post-1945 international order. From the future of the United Nations,...
    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1963auspol,trumpism,unitedstatesfalsefull    The Long-Read Essay: When dissent becomes a crimehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-long-read-essay-when-dissent-becomes-a-crime--69546521
    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69546521Thu, 22 Jan 2026 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsIn this long-read episode, we revisit Australia’s anti-Semitism report from July 2025 and the growing politics of fear surrounding protest, free speech, and criticisms of Israel. As new federal anti-hate and anti-Semitism laws are rushed through...
    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1518auspolfalsefull    The Long-Read Essay: American Fascism and Trump Unmaskedhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-long-read-essay-american-fascism-and-trump-unmasked--69453020
    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69453020Thu, 15 Jan 2026 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsDonald Trump’s second presidency has exposed the United States’ rapid slide into authoritarianism, with chaos, corruption and unchecked executive power now defining American politics. In this long-read episode, we examine how Trump’s return to the...
    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1167auspolfalsefull    A Royal Commission too far? Power, pressure and the politics of Bondihttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-royal-commission-too-far-power-pressure-and-the-politics-of-bondi--69352815
    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69352815Thu, 08 Jan 2026 20:00:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this holiday episode, we cut through the noise surrounding calls for a Royal Commission into the Bondi attack and ask whether the process is truly about accountability or has become a vehicle for political pressure. With an independent review...
    Support New Politics: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    751auspol,royalcommissionfalsefull    The Long-Read Essay: How Labor governshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-long-read-essay-how-labor-governs--69278852
    The New Politics series of long-read essays, from our new publication, The Monday Essays.


    Support New Politics:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69278852Fri, 02 Jan 2026 20:00:09 +0000New PoliticsAfter its emphatic 2025 election victory, the Albanese Labor government entered the year with overwhelming parliamentary dominance and a clear mandate to govern boldly. On paper, it was a government with every advantage imaginable. Yet despite this...
    The New Politics series of long-read essays, from our new publication, The Monday Essays.


    Support New Politics:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    1035auspolfalsefull    The Long-Read Essay: Albanese On Trialhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-long-read-essay-albanese-on-trial--69206725
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69206725Fri, 26 Dec 2025 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsThis long-read audio essay examines the vilification of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese after the Bondi Beach memorial, and how national mourning was turned into a partisan spectacle. It explores how antisemitism, public safety and the...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    ]]>    1354auspolfalsefull    The Long-Read Essay: Democracy, Power and Australia at the Crossroadshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-long-read-essay-democracy-power-and-australia-at-the-crossroads--69132059
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:



    Song listing:
    1. ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69132059Fri, 19 Dec 2025 20:00:08 +0000New Politics2025 was the year the comforting myths finally fell away. In this long-read essay, we trace how democratic institutions – globally and in Australia – proved far more fragile than many assumed, as misinformation, authoritarian politics and media...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:



    Song listing:
    1. ‘La Femme d’Argent’, AIR.
    ]]>    620auspolfalsefull    The Review of 2025 Part 4: AUKUS, cancel culture and how Labor governshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-review-of-2025-part-4-aukus-cancel-culture-and-how-labor-governs--68991015
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Let Me Entertain You’, Robbie Williams.
    2. ‘Swing For The Crime’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Satellite Anthem Icarus’, Boards of Canada.
    4. ‘Off The Grid’, Beastie Boys.
    5. ‘Yesterday’s Gone’, Beth Orton & William Orbit.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68991015Fri, 12 Dec 2025 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsAustralia enters 2026 facing deep strategic uncertainty: AUKUS costs have blown out to $1.3 billion with little clarity about what Australia is actually buying, while fear-driven national-security politics – from Richard Marles’ exaggerated warnings...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Let Me Entertain You’, Robbie Williams.
    2. ‘Swing For The Crime’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Satellite Anthem Icarus’, Boards of Canada.
    4. ‘Off The Grid’, Beastie Boys.
    5. ‘Yesterday’s Gone’, Beth Orton & William Orbit.
    ]]>    2284auspolfalsefull    The Review of 2025 Part 3: All the way with the US foreverhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-review-of-2025-part-3-all-the-way-with-the-us-forever--68990996
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68990996Thu, 11 Dec 2025 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsAs the United States slides into institutional decay under Donald Trump’s return to the White House – with sweeping tariffs on global trade, mass deportations, rolled-back civil rights and an increasingly authoritarian style – Australia has failed to...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    ]]>    607auspolfalsefull    The Review of 2025 Part 2: A big Labor win, Liberal collapse and silencing Palestinehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-review-of-2025-part-2-a-big-labor-win-liberal-collapse-and-silencing-palestine--68881149
    We also look at Australia’s weak and deliberate silence on the genocide in Gaza during the campaign, Labor’s continued supply of military components to Israel, its refusal to impose sanctions, and the abandonment of core party principles under lobby pressure – and then go on to expose the growing influence of the Israel lobby across politics, media, universities and cultural institutions, and what this means for free speech, academic freedom, journalism and democratic accountability in Australia. #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics, just $5 per month.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68881149Fri, 05 Dec 2025 20:00:07 +0000New PoliticsIn our continuing review of the 2025 year in Australian federal politics, we discuss the federal election held in May, analysing one of the worst campaigns by a major political party in modern history and the resulting collapse of the Liberal Party,...
    We also look at Australia’s weak and deliberate silence on the genocide in Gaza during the campaign, Labor’s continued supply of military components to Israel, its refusal to impose sanctions, and the abandonment of core party principles under lobby pressure – and then go on to expose the growing influence of the Israel lobby across politics, media, universities and cultural institutions, and what this means for free speech, academic freedom, journalism and democratic accountability in Australia. #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics, just $5 per month.
    ]]>    2708auspolfalsefull    The Review of 2025 Part 1: Culture wars, Treaty and the collapse of the politics of fearhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-review-of-2025-part-1-culture-wars-treaty-and-the-collapse-of-the-politics-of-fear--68881117
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month.  
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68881117Thu, 04 Dec 2025 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsTo commence our review of the 2025 year in Australian federal politics, this bonus episode examines the continuing culture wars, the Australia Day and Invasion Day debate, and a federal election that dramatically reshaped the political landscape. We...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month.  
    ]]>    885auspol,treatyfalsefull    The Seat Warmers: What Is The Purpose Behind Labor?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-seat-warmers-what-is-the-purpose-behind-labor--68772347
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68772347Fri, 28 Nov 2025 20:00:07 +0000New PoliticsIn the final week of Parliament, New Politics asks a blunt question about Australian federal politics: what is the Albanese Labor government actually for? This episode turns its focus to Labor’s record in office, examining stalled gambling advertising...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    ]]>    3226auspol,qtfalsefull    Hanson’s Burqa Stunt and the Political Nihilism of the Righthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hanson-s-burqa-stunt-and-the-political-nihilism-of-the-right--68772301
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68772301Thu, 27 Nov 2025 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsWe look at the political theatre of the right, including Pauline Hanson’s latest burqa stunt in the Senate, the rise of One Nation in the polls, and the growing battle for reactionary votes between minor parties and a hollowed-out Liberal Party. In an...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    ]]>    719auspolfalsefull    Retail Politics is Killing the Liberal Partyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/retail-politics-is-killing-the-liberal-party--68655882
    With new Redbridge polling showing One Nation rising to 18 per cent as the LNP slips into the low-20s, the right is becoming an echo chamber of grievance politics, far-right messaging and internal chaos, highlighted by the exits of Brad Battin, Leanne Castley and Mark Speakman during the November killing season.

    We also unpack the escalating battle over hospital funding, as the Albanese government pushes productivity reforms before lifting the federal share to 42.5 per cent, while states warn of hospitals nearing breaking point. And with housing policy similarly gridlocked, Australia faces more buck-passing, worsening services and federal–state dysfunction unless real structural reform finally occurs.

    Support New Politics, just $5 per week:
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68655882Fri, 21 Nov 2025 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsThis week, we examine how the Liberal Party has abandoned serious policy for retail politics, scare campaigns and culture-war theatrics – strategies aimed at clawing back voters drifting to One Nation but which are instead eroding the party from...
    With new Redbridge polling showing One Nation rising to 18 per cent as the LNP slips into the low-20s, the right is becoming an echo chamber of grievance politics, far-right messaging and internal chaos, highlighted by the exits of Brad Battin, Leanne Castley and Mark Speakman during the November killing season.

    We also unpack the escalating battle over hospital funding, as the Albanese government pushes productivity reforms before lifting the federal share to 42.5 per cent, while states warn of hospitals nearing breaking point. And with housing policy similarly gridlocked, Australia faces more buck-passing, worsening services and federal–state dysfunction unless real structural reform finally occurs.

    Support New Politics, just $5 per week:
    ]]>    3004auspolfalsefull    The International Occupation of Gazahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-international-occupation-of-gaza--68655846
    Support New Politics, just $5 per week:
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68655846Thu, 20 Nov 2025 20:00:09 +0000New PoliticsIn this bonus episode, we examine the UN Security Council’s approval of a US-designed International Stabilisation Force for Gaza – effectively handing Washington, and Donald Trump as chair of the new “Board of Peace”, unprecedented power over Gaza’s...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per week:
    ]]>    617auspol,gaza,isffalsefull    The Constitution, The Neo-Nazis and The Liberal Partyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-constitution-the-neo-nazis-and-the-liberal-party--68554310
    Support New Politics, just $5 per week: 
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68554310Fri, 14 Nov 2025 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of the New Politics podcast, we look at Australia’s broken political structures and rising extremism – from the renewed debate over four-year federal terms and a constitution stuck in the 1890s, to the disturbing double standards in...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per week: 
    ]]>    2781auspolfalsefull    The Ghost of Gough Whitlamhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ghost-of-gough-whitlam--68554260
    Support New Politics, just $5 per week:
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68554260Thu, 13 Nov 2025 20:00:08 +0000New PoliticsIn this bonus episode of the New Politics podcast, we look at the ghost of Gough Whitlam and ask whether a visionary like Whitlam – who delivered universal healthcare, free tertiary education, multiculturalism, women’s rights and First Nations...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per week:
    ]]>    1360auspolfalsefull    The War on Dissent and Socialism USAhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-war-on-dissent-and-socialism-usa--68447426 (00:01:12) Beautiful, Menacing, and Obscene: Australia’s Addiction to War
    (00:18:18) Robodebt Reborn: The Cruelty That Never Dies
    (00:29:56) Treaty and Truth: A New Beginning in Victoria
    (00:43:07) Socialism in the City: Zohran Mamdani’s Revolution in New York

    We expose Australia’s growing contradictions – a nation that talks peace while funding war, promises compassion while reviving cruelty, and talks justice while fearing equality. From Sydney’s taxpayer-funded arms expo where protesters were pepper-sprayed by police, to Labor’s quiet revival of Robodebt through private debt collectors, this episode reveals how state power is being weaponised against dissent and the vulnerable. We also cover Victoria’s historic Treaty with First Nations peoples, a breakthrough in truth-telling and Reconciliation now under threat from conservative backlash, and the election of democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani as New York’s first Muslim and African-born mayor – a victory for conviction politics over corporate control.
    Support and celebrate New Politics, just $5 per week:  
    Song listing:  
    1. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    2. ‘Swing For The Crime’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘The King Is Dead’, The Herd.
    4. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68447426Fri, 07 Nov 2025 20:30:08 +0000New PoliticsWe expose Australia’s growing contradictions – a nation that talks peace while funding war, promises compassion while reviving cruelty, and talks justice while fearing equality. From Sydney’s taxpayer-funded arms expo where protesters were... (00:01:12) Beautiful, Menacing, and Obscene: Australia’s Addiction to War
    (00:18:18) Robodebt Reborn: The Cruelty That Never Dies
    (00:29:56) Treaty and Truth: A New Beginning in Victoria
    (00:43:07) Socialism in the City: Zohran Mamdani’s Revolution in New York

    We expose Australia’s growing contradictions – a nation that talks peace while funding war, promises compassion while reviving cruelty, and talks justice while fearing equality. From Sydney’s taxpayer-funded arms expo where protesters were pepper-sprayed by police, to Labor’s quiet revival of Robodebt through private debt collectors, this episode reveals how state power is being weaponised against dissent and the vulnerable. We also cover Victoria’s historic Treaty with First Nations peoples, a breakthrough in truth-telling and Reconciliation now under threat from conservative backlash, and the election of democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani as New York’s first Muslim and African-born mayor – a victory for conviction politics over corporate control.
    Support and celebrate New Politics, just $5 per week:  
    Song listing:  
    1. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    2. ‘Swing For The Crime’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘The King Is Dead’, The Herd.
    4. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    3381armsexpo,auspol,australianpolitics,gaza,laborparty,newpoliticspodcast,robodebt,treaty,zohranmamdanifalsefull    The Great Environmental Backflip and the Joy Divisionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-great-environmental-backflip-and-the-joy-division--68348704 (00:01:09) Green Light, Red Flags: Labor’s Environmental Backdown
    (00:16:40) Nuclear Déjà Vu: The Coalition’s Broken Record
    (00:29:26) Between Beijing and Washington: Albanese at ASEAN
    (00:41:10) Culture Wars on Vinyl: The Joy Division Distraction

    We examine one of the biggest environmental retreats in years as the Albanese government prepares to hand decision-making powers on coal, gas and water projects back to the states, gutting environmental protection and empowering the fossil-fuel lobby. It’s supposedly about “cutting red tape,” but critics say it’s a green light for mining giants and a betrayal of Labor’s climate promises. We also assess the new “national interest” override, the anger from NT Aboriginal land councils, and the government’s growing resemblance to the Morrison era. Meanwhile, the Coalition revives its nuclear energy obsession as Senator Jane Hume pushes to lift Australia’s nuclear ban, reigniting divisions between Barnaby Joyce and the moderates. Plus, Anthony Albanese’s balancing act at the ASEAN summit – caught between China and the US – and Sussan Ley’s bizarre attack on the Prime Minister for wearing a Joy Division T-shirt. Sharp analysis, politics without spin, and all the week’s contradictions in Australian politics.

    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Bonnie And Clyde’, Serge Gainsbourg (French Accent remix).
    2. ‘Satellite Anthem Icarus, Boards of Canada.
    3. ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart’, Joy Division.
    4. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68348704Fri, 31 Oct 2025 20:30:09 +0000New PoliticsWe examine one of the biggest environmental retreats in years as the Albanese government prepares to hand decision-making powers on coal, gas and water projects back to the states, gutting environmental protection and empowering the fossil-fuel lobby.... (00:01:09) Green Light, Red Flags: Labor’s Environmental Backdown
    (00:16:40) Nuclear Déjà Vu: The Coalition’s Broken Record
    (00:29:26) Between Beijing and Washington: Albanese at ASEAN
    (00:41:10) Culture Wars on Vinyl: The Joy Division Distraction

    We examine one of the biggest environmental retreats in years as the Albanese government prepares to hand decision-making powers on coal, gas and water projects back to the states, gutting environmental protection and empowering the fossil-fuel lobby. It’s supposedly about “cutting red tape,” but critics say it’s a green light for mining giants and a betrayal of Labor’s climate promises. We also assess the new “national interest” override, the anger from NT Aboriginal land councils, and the government’s growing resemblance to the Morrison era. Meanwhile, the Coalition revives its nuclear energy obsession as Senator Jane Hume pushes to lift Australia’s nuclear ban, reigniting divisions between Barnaby Joyce and the moderates. Plus, Anthony Albanese’s balancing act at the ASEAN summit – caught between China and the US – and Sussan Ley’s bizarre attack on the Prime Minister for wearing a Joy Division T-shirt. Sharp analysis, politics without spin, and all the week’s contradictions in Australian politics.

    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Bonnie And Clyde’, Serge Gainsbourg (French Accent remix).
    2. ‘Satellite Anthem Icarus, Boards of Canada.
    3. ‘Love Will Tear Us Apart’, Joy Division.
    4. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    3310auspol,climatechangefalsefull    Alliance Games and the Price of Truthhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/alliance-games-and-the-price-of-truth--68259913 (00:01:09) The Albanese–Trump Deal and the $8.5 Billion handshake (17 mins)
    (00:18:46) Sparks Over The South China Sea (11 mins)
    (00:29:56) Barnaby Joyce and One Nation: Who Really Cares (8 mins)
    (00:38:45) A Ceasefire That Still Kills in Gaza (5 mins)
    (00:43:35) The ABC Hatchet Job on Hedges (15 mins)

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s long-awaited meeting with Donald Trump delivers smiles, handshakes and a critical minerals deal that deepens Australia’s dependence on Washington. Beneath the diplomacy lies a bigger story – how this deal sidelines China, fuels the mining magnates and leaves Australia as the world’s quarry. Meanwhile, rising tensions in the South China Sea, Barnaby Joyce’s flirtation with Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, and the collapse of the Gaza “ceasefire” expose a world of political theatre and moral failure. From AUKUS to media censorship and Chris Hedges’ fight for truth, this episode dissects power, propaganda and the high price of speaking out.

    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Spitfire’, Public Service Broadcasting.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Dātura’, Tori Amos.
    4. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68259913Fri, 24 Oct 2025 20:30:08 +0000New PoliticsPrime Minister Anthony Albanese’s long-awaited meeting with Donald Trump delivers smiles, handshakes and a critical minerals deal that deepens Australia’s dependence on Washington. Beneath the diplomacy lies a bigger story – how this deal sidelines... (00:01:09) The Albanese–Trump Deal and the $8.5 Billion handshake (17 mins)
    (00:18:46) Sparks Over The South China Sea (11 mins)
    (00:29:56) Barnaby Joyce and One Nation: Who Really Cares (8 mins)
    (00:38:45) A Ceasefire That Still Kills in Gaza (5 mins)
    (00:43:35) The ABC Hatchet Job on Hedges (15 mins)

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s long-awaited meeting with Donald Trump delivers smiles, handshakes and a critical minerals deal that deepens Australia’s dependence on Washington. Beneath the diplomacy lies a bigger story – how this deal sidelines China, fuels the mining magnates and leaves Australia as the world’s quarry. Meanwhile, rising tensions in the South China Sea, Barnaby Joyce’s flirtation with Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, and the collapse of the Gaza “ceasefire” expose a world of political theatre and moral failure. From AUKUS to media censorship and Chris Hedges’ fight for truth, this episode dissects power, propaganda and the high price of speaking out.

    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Spitfire’, Public Service Broadcasting.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Dātura’, Tori Amos.
    4. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    3603aukus,auspol,china,gazaceasfirefalsefull    A Super Backdown and the Politics of Retreathttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-super-backdown-and-the-politics-of-retreat--68165675
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 


    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Off The Grid’, Beastie Boys.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Talking To A Stranger’, Birds of Tokyo (cover).
    4. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68165675Fri, 17 Oct 2025 20:30:08 +0000New PoliticsIn this week’s podcast, Labor’s superannuation retreat exposes a government afraid to lead – Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ watered-down super tax gives wealthy Australians another break while real reform on housing, climate and tax fairness slips further...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 


    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Off The Grid’, Beastie Boys.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Talking To A Stranger’, Birds of Tokyo (cover).
    4. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    3262auspol,corruption,gazaceasefirefalsefull    Cancelling Press Freedoms: Hedges and the Hypocrisy of Australian Mediahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cancelling-press-freedoms-hedges-and-the-hypocrisy-of-australian-media--68076256Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 
    • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    • Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘All I Need’, AIR (feat. Beth Hirsch).
    2. ‘Ameno’, +eRa+.
    3. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68076256Fri, 10 Oct 2025 20:30:08 +0000New PoliticsWe expose the hypocrisy behind the National Press Club’s cancellation of Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Chris Hedges, silenced for planning to speak about the collapse of journalism and the genocide in Gaza. We reveal how corporate sponsors like...Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 
    • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    • Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘All I Need’, AIR (feat. Beth Hirsch).
    2. ‘Ameno’, +eRa+.
    3. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.

    ]]>    2626auspol,censorship,yourrighttoknowfalsefull    The Slow Road to Nowhere: Albanese and the Politics of Cautionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-slow-road-to-nowhere-albanese-and-the-politics-of-caution--67986538Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Atomic Moog 2000’, Cold Cut.
    2. ‘Crooked River’, Richard Pleasance. 
    3. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67986538Fri, 03 Oct 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsAnthony Albanese is back from his international tour, pitching stability and steady progress – but is “slow and steady” enough, or just political stagnation? We unpack the prime minister’s speeches at the UK Labour conference, his meeting with King...Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Atomic Moog 2000’, Cold Cut.
    2. ‘Crooked River’, Richard Pleasance. 
    3. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    3150auspolfalsefull    Living In America, Go To Hellhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/living-in-america-go-to-hell--67896104
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Living In America’, James Brown (Mixerm8’s dub version).
    2. ‘Satellite Anthem Icarus, Boards of Canada.
    3. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67896104Fri, 26 Sep 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsAmerica’s democratic decline under Donald Trump’s second term is reshaping global politics – institutions are undermined, conspiracy theories drive policy, and US credibility is collapsing on the world stage. As China, Russia, India, and Brazil...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Living In America’, James Brown (Mixerm8’s dub version).
    2. ‘Satellite Anthem Icarus, Boards of Canada.
    3. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    3172aukus,auspol,brics,donaldtrump,globalpolitics,israelpalestine,middleeast,newpoliticspodcast,palestinerecognition,unitednations,uspoliticsfalsefull    The Politics of Denial: Australia’s Reality Checkhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-politics-of-denial-australia-s-reality-check--67808232Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    2. ‘Wherever We Go’, Vera Blue. 
    3. ‘Hungry Face’, Mogwai. 
    4. ‘The Hard Road’, Hilltop Hoods. 
    5. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67808232Fri, 19 Sep 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsAustralia’s first national climate risk assessment warns of rising seas, deadly heat, and collapsing ecosystems, raising doubts about whether Anthony Albanese’s 2035 emissions target is bold enough. Meanwhile, the Royal Children’s Hospital caves to...Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    2. ‘Wherever We Go’, Vera Blue. 
    3. ‘Hungry Face’, Mogwai. 
    4. ‘The Hard Road’, Hilltop Hoods. 
    5. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    3100auspol,climatechange,israelgenocidefalsefull    Modern Monetary Theory: Miracle or Mirage?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/modern-monetary-theory-miracle-or-mirage--67773034
    #ModernMonetaryTheory #MMTExplained #EconomicsPodcast #FiscalPolicy2025 #GreenNewDeal #GlobalEconomy

    Reading list:
    1. Kelton, S. (2020). The deficit myth: Modern Monetary Theory and the birth of the people’s economy. PublicAffairs.
    2. Knapp, G. F. (1905). The state theory of money. Macmillan.
    3. Lerner, A. P. (1943). Functional finance and the federal debt. Social Research, 10(1), 38–51.
    4. Levy Economics Institute. (2025). The rise of the modern monetary system (Working Paper No. 1234). Levy Economics Institute of Bard College. https://www.levyinstitute.org/publications/the-rise-of-the-modern-monetary-system
    5. Mitchell, W. (2025, August 8). The failure of austerity and the construction slowdown in the UK [Blog post]. Bill Mitchell – Modern Monetary Theory. https://billmitchell.org/blog/?p=62704
    6. Mitchell, W., Wray, L. R., & Watts, M. (2019). Macroeconomics. Red Globe Press.
    7. Murphy, R. P. (2025). MMT: Dead wrong [Audio podcast episode]. Mises Institute Podcast. Mises Institute. https://mises.org/library/mmt-dead-wrong
    8. Palley, T. I. (2019). Modern Monetary Theory (MMT): A policy polemic for depressed times. Real-World Economics Review, 89, 147–160. http://www.paecon.net/PAEReview/issue89/Palley89.pdf
    9. Phys.org. (2025, May 15). Economist: Modern Monetary Theory could benefit Canada. Phys.org. https://phys.org/news/2025-05-modern-monetary-theory-economist-canada.html
    10. Tcherneva, P. R. (2020). The case for a job guarantee. Polity Press.
    11. Wray, L. R. (2015). Modern Monetary Theory: A primer on macroeconomics for sovereign monetary systems (2nd ed.). Palgrave Macmillan.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67773034Tue, 16 Sep 2025 23:00:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this bonus episode of the New Politics podcast, host David Lewis unpacks Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) – once dismissed as fringe but now at the centre of global economic debate. We explore its intellectual roots, from Georg Friedrich Knapp and Abba...
    #ModernMonetaryTheory #MMTExplained #EconomicsPodcast #FiscalPolicy2025 #GreenNewDeal #GlobalEconomy

    Reading list:
    1. Kelton, S. (2020). The deficit myth: Modern Monetary Theory and the birth of the people’s economy. PublicAffairs.
    2. Knapp, G. F. (1905). The state theory of money. Macmillan.
    3. Lerner, A. P. (1943). Functional finance and the federal debt. Social Research, 10(1), 38–51.
    4. Levy Economics Institute. (2025). The rise of the modern monetary system (Working Paper No. 1234). Levy Economics Institute of Bard College. https://www.levyinstitute.org/publications/the-rise-of-the-modern-monetary-system
    5. Mitchell, W. (2025, August 8). The failure of austerity and the construction slowdown in the UK [Blog post]. Bill Mitchell – Modern Monetary Theory. https://billmitchell.org/blog/?p=62704
    6. Mitchell, W., Wray, L. R., & Watts, M. (2019). Macroeconomics. Red Globe Press.
    7. Murphy, R. P. (2025). MMT: Dead wrong [Audio podcast episode]. Mises Institute Podcast. Mises Institute. https://mises.org/library/mmt-dead-wrong
    8. Palley, T. I. (2019). Modern Monetary Theory (MMT): A policy polemic for depressed times. Real-World Economics Review, 89, 147–160. http://www.paecon.net/PAEReview/issue89/Palley89.pdf
    9. Phys.org. (2025, May 15). Economist: Modern Monetary Theory could benefit Canada. Phys.org. https://phys.org/news/2025-05-modern-monetary-theory-economist-canada.html
    10. Tcherneva, P. R. (2020). The case for a job guarantee. Polity Press.
    11. Wray, L. R. (2015). Modern Monetary Theory: A primer on macroeconomics for sovereign monetary systems (2nd ed.). Palgrave Macmillan.
    ]]>    614economicspodcast,fiscalpolicy2025,globaleconomy,greennewdeal,mmtexplained,modernmonetarytheoryfalsebonus    The China Syndrome and the Big Liberal Splithttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-china-syndrome-and-the-big-liberal-split--67727598#AusPol #ChinaRelations #JacintaPrice #LiberalParty #FreePalestine #MurdochMedia #VictoriaTreaty #NewPoliticsPodcast  

    Support New Politics, just $5 per week.  

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Arion [Nothing Changes Under The Sun]’, Blue States.
    3. ‘A Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    4. ‘Kya Kyana’, Flewnt.
    5. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67727598Fri, 12 Sep 2025 21:30:08 +0000New PoliticsThis week, we expose Australia’s latest media hysteria: Xi Jinping’s speech to commemorate defeating fascism in 1945 mistranslated into a China scare campaign, recycled “Dictator Dan” attacks on Daniel Andrews, Jacinta Price’s divisive immigration...#AusPol #ChinaRelations #JacintaPrice #LiberalParty #FreePalestine #MurdochMedia #VictoriaTreaty #NewPoliticsPodcast  

    Support New Politics, just $5 per week.  

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Arion [Nothing Changes Under The Sun]’, Blue States.
    3. ‘A Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    4. ‘Kya Kyana’, Flewnt.
    5. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    ]]>    3010auspol,chinarelations,freepalestine,jacintaprice,liberalparty,murdochmedia,newpoliticspodcast,victoriatreatyfalsefull    The White Shade of Fascismhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-white-shade-of-fascism--67639425
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    #auspol #MarchForAustralia

    Song listing:   
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Global Reach’, Alec Williams & Chieli Minucci.
    3. ‘All Along The Watchtower’, Afterhere (Bob Dylan cover).
    4. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67639425Fri, 05 Sep 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsThe “March for Australia” rallies claimed to be about housing and migration, but quickly exposed themselves as platforms for white nationalism, racism, and neo-Nazi activity. We break down how politicians, right-wing media, and even the Prime...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    #auspol #MarchForAustralia

    Song listing:   
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Global Reach’, Alec Williams & Chieli Minucci.
    3. ‘All Along The Watchtower’, Afterhere (Bob Dylan cover).
    4. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    2902auspol,marchforaustraliafalsefull    The Iran Ultimatum, A House Of Cards and Climate Chaoshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-iran-ultimatum-a-house-of-cards-and-climate-chaos--67549741
    #AusPol #HousingCrisis #ClimateChaos #MiddleEastPolitics

    Support New Politics:  

    Song listing:  
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Man of Constant Sorrow’, Skeewiff.
    3. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.
    4. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67549741Fri, 29 Aug 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsHousing affordability dominates the headlines as the Albanese government repackages its 5% deposit scheme for first home buyers, but with global evidence showing such policies push up prices without fixing supply, is this just more political spin? We...
    #AusPol #HousingCrisis #ClimateChaos #MiddleEastPolitics

    Support New Politics:  

    Song listing:  
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Man of Constant Sorrow’, Skeewiff.
    3. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.
    4. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    2929auspol,climatechaos,housingcrisis,middleeastpoliticsfalsefull    Reform, Resistance and Netanyahu’s Ranthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/reform-resistance-and-netanyahu-s-rant--67473115
    On the international stage, Benjamin Netanyahu’s attack on Albanese over Palestine recognition backfired, exposing his crumbling authority while highlighting Australia’s potential shift towards sanctions and accountability for Israel’s actions in Gaza. Back home, Labor consolidates power despite Albanese’s low personal popularity, the Liberals under Sussan Ley remain stuck in negativity, and Tasmanian Labor tries to arrest its chaos under new leader Josh Willie.

    #AusPol #NewPoliticsPodcast #TasPol  

    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:  
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Whisper’, Coldplay.
    4. ‘Familiar’, Agnes Obel.
    5. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    6. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67473115Fri, 22 Aug 2025 21:30:08 +0000New PoliticsWe unpack the government’s Economic Reform Roundtable, where Anthony Albanese brought together business, unions, and welfare groups to debate productivity, equity, housing, and workplace reform – but with predictable demands and little real change on...
    On the international stage, Benjamin Netanyahu’s attack on Albanese over Palestine recognition backfired, exposing his crumbling authority while highlighting Australia’s potential shift towards sanctions and accountability for Israel’s actions in Gaza. Back home, Labor consolidates power despite Albanese’s low personal popularity, the Liberals under Sussan Ley remain stuck in negativity, and Tasmanian Labor tries to arrest its chaos under new leader Josh Willie.

    #AusPol #NewPoliticsPodcast #TasPol  

    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:  
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Whisper’, Coldplay.
    4. ‘Familiar’, Agnes Obel.
    5. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    6. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    3521auspol,newpoliticspodcast,taspolfalsefull    A state of Palestine and the price of fearless journalismhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-state-of-palestine-and-the-price-of-fearless-journalism--67375950
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, The Boards Of Canada.
    3. ‘Stonecutters’, Dope Lemon.
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67375950Fri, 15 Aug 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsPrime Minister Anthony Albanese’s announcement that Australia will recognise the state of Palestine at the UN in September marks a historic foreign policy shift, yet conditions are placed solely on Palestine while Israel faces none. This episode...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, The Boards Of Canada.
    3. ‘Stonecutters’, Dope Lemon.
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    2892auspol,australianpolitics,climatechange,economicpolicy,palestinerecognition,pressfreedomfalsefull    The March For Humanityhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-march-for-humanity--67294672
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘The Hanging Tree’, James Newton Howard, with Jennifer Lawrence.
    3. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    4. ‘Take Me Home’, A.B. Original & Gurrumul.
    5. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67294672Fri, 08 Aug 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we cover the massive Sydney Harbour Bridge protest where up to 300,000 Australians defied torrential rain to demand justice for Palestine, an end to Israel’s genocide in Gaza, and immediate recognition of a Palestinian...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘The Hanging Tree’, James Newton Howard, with Jennifer Lawrence.
    3. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    4. ‘Take Me Home’, A.B. Original & Gurrumul.
    5. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    2773auspol,marchforhumanityfalsefull    Politics, Palestine and the continuing AUKUS messhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/politics-palestine-and-the-continuing-aukus-mess--67210904
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:  

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Effloresce And Deliquesce’, The Chills.
    3. ‘Dātura’, Tori Amos.
    4. ‘Wherever We Go’, Vera Blue.
    5. ‘Trouble’, Vox Noir, SATV Music.
    6. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67210904Fri, 01 Aug 2025 21:30:10 +0000New PoliticsAUKUS turns costly as Australia signs a 50-year treaty with the UK – without US backing. The Nationals reignite the climate wars, aged care reforms are delayed, and Gareth Ward remains in Parliament despite a criminal conviction. Plus, we analyse...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:  

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Effloresce And Deliquesce’, The Chills.
    3. ‘Dātura’, Tori Amos.
    4. ‘Wherever We Go’, Vera Blue.
    5. ‘Trouble’, Vox Noir, SATV Music.
    6. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).
    ]]>    2602aukus,auspol,netzero,newpoliticspodcast,newsanalysis,pennywong,qt,richardmarles,submarinesfalsefull    A Year of Delivery and Censuring Gazahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-year-of-delivery-and-censuring-gaza--67106532We also cover the powerful pro-Palestine protests outside Parliament and question why the government, led by Penny Wong, has focused more on silencing dissent than holding Israel accountable for its actions in Gaza. Plus, we look at the campaign to lower the voting age to 16 in Australia, and what it means for democracy and youth political engagement. And finally, we unpack the result of the Tasmania election and what it reveals about modern power-sharing politics – and Labor’s persistent reluctance to work with the Greens. #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics. just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    3. ‘Talking To A Stranger’, Birds of Tokyo (cover).
    4. ‘Under The Sea’, Digby Jones.
    5. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67106532Fri, 25 Jul 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsThe first sitting week of Australia’s new federal Parliament has begun with a show of strength from the Albanese Labor government, now holding a record-breaking majority. In this episode, we explore what Prime Minister Albanese’s “year of delivery”...We also cover the powerful pro-Palestine protests outside Parliament and question why the government, led by Penny Wong, has focused more on silencing dissent than holding Israel accountable for its actions in Gaza. Plus, we look at the campaign to lower the voting age to 16 in Australia, and what it means for democracy and youth political engagement. And finally, we unpack the result of the Tasmania election and what it reveals about modern power-sharing politics – and Labor’s persistent reluctance to work with the Greens. #AUSPOL

    Support New Politics. just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Sign O’ The Times’, Prince, remix by Michael Saxom.
    3. ‘Talking To A Stranger’, Birds of Tokyo (cover).
    4. ‘Under The Sea’, Digby Jones.
    5. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).

    ]]>    2911auspolfalsefull    China, Censorship and the Great Australian Housing Miragehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/china-censorship-and-the-great-australian-housing-mirage--67022519
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Just Give 'em Whiskey’, Colourbox.
    3. ‘Bonnie And Clyde’, Serge Gainsbourg (French Accent remix).
    4. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    5. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67022519Fri, 18 Jul 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we break down a big week in Australian politics – from Anthony Albanese’s strategic reset of Australia–China relations through diplomacy and trade, to the Coalition’s continued Cold War-style fearmongering and media hysteria over...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Just Give 'em Whiskey’, Colourbox.
    3. ‘Bonnie And Clyde’, Serge Gainsbourg (French Accent remix).
    4. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    5. ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).

    ]]>    3123auspol,china,housingfalsefull    Criminalising Dissent and the True Public Cost of Privatisationhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/criminalising-dissent-and-the-true-public-cost-of-privatisation--66937965
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    • ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, The Boards Of Canada.
    • ‘All Along the Watchtower’, Afterhere (Bob Dylan).
    • ‘Fall’, Single Gun Theory.
    • ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66937965Fri, 11 Jul 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsThis week, we expose the real costs of privatisation in Australia’s essential services – early childhood education, health, aged care, and universities – highlighting how deregulation, outsourcing, and profit-driven policies have undermined safety,...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    • ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, The Boards Of Canada.
    • ‘All Along the Watchtower’, Afterhere (Bob Dylan).
    • ‘Fall’, Single Gun Theory.
    • ‘Get Back’, The Beatles (remix).

    ]]>    3093auspolfalsefull    The Obsession of a Date With Trump and More Police Brutality in NSWhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-obsession-of-a-date-with-trump-and-more-police-brutality-in-nsw--66852749
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    • ‘Global Reach’, Alec Williams & Chieli Minucci.
    • ‘(We Don’t Need This) Fascist Groove Thang’, Heaven 17 (extended version).
    • ‘Bagi-la-m Bargan’, Birdz featuring Fred Leone.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66852749Fri, 04 Jul 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we dissect the media frenzy over whether Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will meet US President Donald Trump, arguing that diplomatic theatre won’t protect Australia from the fallout of Trump’s chaotic trade policies and that Canberra...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    • ‘Global Reach’, Alec Williams & Chieli Minucci.
    • ‘(We Don’t Need This) Fascist Groove Thang’, Heaven 17 (extended version).
    • ‘Bagi-la-m Bargan’, Birdz featuring Fred Leone.
    ]]>    2827auspolfalsefull    The End Of The Rules Based International Orderhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-end-of-the-rules-based-international-order--66760583
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    • ‘Bohannon’, Fat Freddy’s Drop.
    • ‘Loose Fit’, Happy Mondays.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66760583Fri, 27 Jun 2025 21:30:08 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we examine the United States’ bombing of Iranian nuclear sites and Australia’s delayed yet predictable support, driven by hollow “alliance obligations” rhetoric. We unpack the media’s biased framing of “Iranian aggression”, the ABC’s...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    • ‘Bohannon’, Fat Freddy’s Drop.
    • ‘Loose Fit’, Happy Mondays.

    ]]>    2742auspol,israeliranwarfalsefull    On The Eve Of Destructionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/on-the-eve-of-destruction--66641172
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    • Hey! Douglas.
    • ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66641172Fri, 20 Jun 2025 21:30:08 +0000New PoliticsIn this explosive episode, we unpack the escalating Israel–Iran conflict, exposing the deadly airstrikes, retaliatory missile attacks, and the West’s ongoing hypocrisy around “the right to defend”. We challenge the double standards on nuclear weapons,...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    • Hey! Douglas.
    • ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.

    ]]>    2715auspol,israeliranconflictfalsefull    The ghost of Morrison, Fascism USA, and political football in Tasmaniahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ghost-of-morrison-fascism-usa-and-political-football-in-tasmania--66542787
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, The Boards of Canada.
    4. ‘State Of The World (AEIOU)’, Jim James.
    5. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66542787Fri, 13 Jun 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we unpack the shocking decision to award former Prime Minister Scott Morrison the Companion of the Order of Australia, despite his disastrous COVID-19 response, economic mismanagement, and culture war legacy – raising serious...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, The Boards of Canada.
    4. ‘State Of The World (AEIOU)’, Jim James.
    5. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.

    ]]>    3054auspolfalsefull    The Gaslit Nation and Sending Rockets To Chinahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-gaslit-nation-and-sending-rockets-to-china--66414477
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month!:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Man of Constant Sorrow’, Skeewiff.
    3. ‘Arion [Nothing Changes Under The Sun]’, Blue States.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66414477Fri, 06 Jun 2025 21:30:08 +0000New PoliticsIn this hard-hitting episode, we expose the Labor government’s climate betrayal through its approval of Woodside’s North West Shelf gas expansion, locking in emissions until 2070, while new coal and gas projects surge across Queensland and NSW. We...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month!:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Man of Constant Sorrow’, Skeewiff.
    3. ‘Arion [Nothing Changes Under The Sun]’, Blue States.

    ]]>    2534auspolfalsefull    A Coalition meltdown, Labor’s big test, and a new era for Australia–Palestine politics?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-coalition-meltdown-labor-s-big-test-and-a-new-era-for-australia-palestine-politics--66334741
    Support New Politics: 
    • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    • Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66334741Fri, 30 May 2025 22:00:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of the New Politics podcast, we unpack the continuing fallout from the 2025 Australian federal election, exploring the fractured two-party system, the Coalition’s deep divisions over energy, climate, and regional issues, and the...
    Support New Politics: 
    • Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    • Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Even Better Than The Real Thing’, A 440 VS U2 instrumental remix.
    2. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.

    ]]>    2961auspol,gazafalsefull    Welcome To Albanese Countryhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/welcome-to-albanese-country--66008487
    Support New Politics! Just $5 per month:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Atomic Moog 2000’, Coldcut
    3. ‘Spitfire’, Public Service Broadcasting
    4. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    5. ‘Stranger in Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66008487Fri, 09 May 2025 21:30:08 +0000New PoliticsIn this extended episode, we analyse the historic 2025 federal election, where Anthony Albanese led the Labor Party to one of the most decisive victories in Australian political history – winning up to 92 seats, achieving a 3% swing, and securing 55%...
    Support New Politics! Just $5 per month:

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Atomic Moog 2000’, Coldcut
    3. ‘Spitfire’, Public Service Broadcasting
    4. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    5. ‘Stranger in Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    4131auspol,election2025falsefull    The Final Week: Dutton’s collapse, Albanese’s edge and Labor to winhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-final-week-dutton-s-collapse-albanese-s-edge-and-labor-to-win--65839693
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘State Of The Art (A.E.I.O.U.)’, Jim James.
    4. ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’, The Who (remix).
    5. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza. 
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65839693Fri, 02 May 2025 00:45:11 +0000New PoliticsIn the final week of the 2025 federal election campaign, we unpack Peter Dutton’s total campaign collapse, Anthony Albanese’s edge in the polls, and why a Labor victory now looks inevitable. From debate disasters and media blunders to desperate...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘State Of The Art (A.E.I.O.U.)’, Jim James.
    4. ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’, The Who (remix).
    5. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza. 
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    4008auspol,election2025falsefull    After four weeks of the campaign: Is it all over?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/after-four-weeks-of-the-campaign-is-it-all-over--65717709
    Support New Politics, just $5 per week! 


    Song listing:
    • ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    • ‘Godless’, The Dandy Warhols.
    • ‘Feels Right’, Biig Piig.
    • ‘Let Me Entertain You’, Robbie Williams.
    • ‘The Hard Road’, Hilltop Hoods.
    • ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65717709Fri, 25 Apr 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsWeek four of the federal election campaign shrank to three working days – bookended by Easter Monday and ANZAC Day – and was upended by the death of Pope Francis, briefly halting campaigns by Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton. Nearly two million...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per week! 


    Song listing:
    • ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    • ‘Godless’, The Dandy Warhols.
    • ‘Feels Right’, Biig Piig.
    • ‘Let Me Entertain You’, Robbie Williams.
    • ‘The Hard Road’, Hilltop Hoods.
    • ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    3739auspol,election2025falsefull    Loose units and losing momentum: Dutton’s campaign continues to go downhillhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/loose-units-and-losing-momentum-dutton-s-campaign-continues-to-go-downhill--65618912
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    • ‘Mysterious Ways’, U2 (cover version by In Sympathy).
    • ‘La femme d’Argent, AIR.
    • ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    • ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65618912Fri, 18 Apr 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this extended episode, we dissect week three of the 2025 federal election campaign, where Peter Dutton’s Coalition descends further into chaos – facing a credibility crisis driven by misinformation, fear campaigns about Russia, China and Indonesia,...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    • ‘Mysterious Ways’, U2 (cover version by In Sympathy).
    • ‘La femme d’Argent, AIR.
    • ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    • ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    4241auspol,election2025falsefull    Leaks, lies and sabotage: The Coalition’s second-week election meltdownhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leaks-lies-and-sabotage-the-coalition-s-second-week-election-meltdown--65532847
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month!: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Bonnie and Clyde’, Serge Gainsbourg (French Accent Remix)
    3. ‘Familiar’, Agnes Obel.
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Bumper’, The Cannanes.
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65532847Fri, 11 Apr 2025 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsWe analyse the turbulent second week of the 2025 federal election campaign, where the Liberal–National Coalition’s strategy descended into chaos. The week’s headline issue – the Port of Darwin lease to a Chinese company – was rebranded by Peter Dutton...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month!: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Bonnie and Clyde’, Serge Gainsbourg (French Accent Remix)
    3. ‘Familiar’, Agnes Obel.
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Bumper’, The Cannanes.
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    4078auspol,election2025falsefull    The Week 1 Report and the campaign to get Dutton out of Dicksonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-week-1-report-and-the-campaign-to-get-dutton-out-of-dickson--65342653
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Blue Monday’, New Order.
    3. ‘Connected’, Stereo MCs.
    4. ‘All Along the Watchtower’, Afterhere.
    5. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65342653Fri, 04 Apr 2025 20:30:08 +0000New PoliticsIn this bumper episode, we analyse the first week of the 2025 federal election campaign, covering rising tensions over Chinese research vessels and national security scare campaigns, Dutton’s Kirribilli House gaffe, and the resurgence of Cold War-era...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Blue Monday’, New Order.
    3. ‘Connected’, Stereo MCs.
    4. ‘All Along the Watchtower’, Afterhere.
    5. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    4185auspol,election2025,@elliesmithqldfalsefull    It’s On: The 2025 Election Preview and Budget Analysishttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/it-s-on-the-2025-election-preview-and-budget-analysis--65172020
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    • ‘Crying’, Strawpeople.
    • ‘Trouble’, Vox Noir.
    • ‘Teardrop’, Massive Attack.
    • ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65172020Fri, 28 Mar 2025 20:30:07 +0000New PoliticsThe federal election has been announced for May 3, and we unpack Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ pre-election Budget – marked by cautious politics, modest tax cuts, and the usual barrage from conservative media. Despite early signals of a deficit, the Budget...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com 

    Song listing:
    • ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    • ‘Crying’, Strawpeople.
    • ‘Trouble’, Vox Noir.
    • ‘Teardrop’, Massive Attack.
    • ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    3188auspol,budget2025,election2025falsefull    Housing with Purple Pingers and an election on the horizonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/housing-with-purple-pingers-and-an-election-on-the-horizon--65005148shitrentals.org, about housing affordability. We also look at the upcoming federal budget and the media's selective portrayal of budget deficits, often negative under Labor but positive under Liberal governments. We then explore the ongoing debates surrounding Australia's controversial AUKUS agreement amid instability from Donald Trump’s second presidency, and assess Coalition leader Peter Dutton’s alignment with Trumpist MAGA ideology. The Coalition's recent dog-whistle politics – including a referendum that nobody wants – has in internal panic ahead of the federal election, and it’s well deserved: the Liberal Party is falling apart at the seams. Finally, and we review recent opinion polls showing improving prospects for Prime Minister Albanese and the Labor government.

    Support New Politics, just $5 per month!: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    • ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    • ‘Man of Constant Sorrow’, Skeewiff.
    • ‘She's My Lover’, Kid Loco (Jean-Yves Prieur).
    • ‘Unknown Water’, Ella Fence.
    • ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65005148Fri, 21 Mar 2025 20:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we speak with Jordan Van Den Lamb (Purple Pingers), Victorian Socialists Senate candidate and founder of https://shitrentals.org, about housing affordability. We also look at the upcoming federal budget and the media's selective...shitrentals.org, about housing affordability. We also look at the upcoming federal budget and the media's selective portrayal of budget deficits, often negative under Labor but positive under Liberal governments. We then explore the ongoing debates surrounding Australia's controversial AUKUS agreement amid instability from Donald Trump’s second presidency, and assess Coalition leader Peter Dutton’s alignment with Trumpist MAGA ideology. The Coalition's recent dog-whistle politics – including a referendum that nobody wants – has in internal panic ahead of the federal election, and it’s well deserved: the Liberal Party is falling apart at the seams. Finally, and we review recent opinion polls showing improving prospects for Prime Minister Albanese and the Labor government.

    Support New Politics, just $5 per month!: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    • ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    • ‘Man of Constant Sorrow’, Skeewiff.
    • ‘She's My Lover’, Kid Loco (Jean-Yves Prieur).
    • ‘Unknown Water’, Ella Fence.
    • ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    3692aukus,auspol,election2025,housing,purplepingersfalsefull    WA Votes and Dutton unravellinghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wa-votes-and-dutton-unravelling--64870720
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Bonnie And Clyde’, Serge Gainsbourg (French Accent remix)
    3. ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, Boards Of Canada.
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64870720Fri, 14 Mar 2025 20:30:07 +0000New PoliticsThe WA election delivered another massive win for Labor, securing a third term – despite a 10 per cent swing against Labor, votes shifted to Greens, independents, and One Nation, signaling dissatisfaction with the Liberals rather than enthusiasm for...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Bonnie And Clyde’, Serge Gainsbourg (French Accent remix)
    3. ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, Boards Of Canada.
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    3124albanese,auspol,dutton,islamophobia,wapolfalsefull    The economic recovery, US alliance tensions, and News Corp exposedhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-economic-recovery-us-alliance-tensions-and-news-corp-exposed--64739488
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    3. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64739488Fri, 07 Mar 2025 20:30:06 +0000New PoliticsThis episode explores Australia’s emerging economic recovery from a per capita recession under both the Morrison and Albanese governments, spotlighting improved interest rates, lower inflation, and rising employment and wages that bolster Treasurer...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    3. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    3769anzusalliance,auspol,economy,murdochroyalcommissionfalsefull    Time out for the US alliance?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/time-out-for-the-us-alliance--64613907
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Let Me Entertain You’, Robbie Williams.
    3. ‘Dātura’, Tori Amos.
    4. ‘The Hard Road’, Hilltop Hoods.
    5. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64613907Fri, 28 Feb 2025 20:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we question whether Australia should remain aligned with an increasingly unpredictable United States and explore how this sudden shift in American foreign policy, after years of condemning Russian aggression, is forcing Australia to...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Let Me Entertain You’, Robbie Williams.
    3. ‘Dātura’, Tori Amos.
    4. ‘The Hard Road’, Hilltop Hoods.
    5. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    3323aukus,auspol,ukraine,usalliance,wapolfalsefull    We really need to talk about Zionismhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/we-really-need-to-talk-about-zionism--64472808
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘La Femme D’Argent, Air.
    3. ‘Pretty Vacant’, Sofia.
    4. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64472808Fri, 21 Feb 2025 20:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we examine the influence of Zionist groups in Australian media and politics, exposing how News Corporation and right-wing activists manipulate public sentiment and suppress criticism of Israel. A failed Daily Telegraph stunt at Cairo...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month:

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘La Femme D’Argent, Air.
    3. ‘Pretty Vacant’, Sofia.
    4. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    2638auspol,zionismfalsefull    Managing Trump, not Closing the Gap, dirty election dealshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/managing-trump-not-closing-the-gap-dirty-election-deals--64367050
    Support New Politics:

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘This Land is Mine’, Kev Carmody & Paul Kelly.
    3. ‘Humiliation’, The National.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64367050Fri, 14 Feb 2025 20:30:07 +0000New PoliticsThis episode examines Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s phone call to President Donald Trump over looming US steel and aluminium tariffs, the AUKUS agreement and its US$500 million payment, and the potential political fallout ahead of the federal...
    Support New Politics:

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘This Land is Mine’, Kev Carmody & Paul Kelly.
    3. ‘Humiliation’, The National.
    ]]>    2859aukus,auspol,closingthegap,election2025,qtfalsefull    The ABC of Peter Dutton and the sacking of a journalisthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-abc-of-peter-dutton-and-the-sacking-of-a-journalist--64238697
    Support New Politics:

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Stonecutters’, Dope Lemon.
    3. ‘Familiar’, Agnes Obel.
    4. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64238697Fri, 07 Feb 2025 20:30:06 +0000New PoliticsWe examine the return of Parliament in 2025, the government’s shelving of the Environmental Protection Agency, and stalled gambling advertising legislation that may never advance. There’s a lot of announcements but drawing parallels to Morrison-era...
    Support New Politics:

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Stonecutters’, Dope Lemon.
    3. ‘Familiar’, Agnes Obel.
    4. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    2790abc,auspol,dutton,gaza,lattouf,qtfalsefull    Australia’s culture wars, Trump’s mayhem, and a fragile ceasefirehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/australia-s-culture-wars-trump-s-mayhem-and-a-fragile-ceasefire--64057204
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Let Me Entertain You’, Robbie Williams.
    3. ‘Off The Grid’, The Beastie Boys.
    4. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64057204Fri, 31 Jan 2025 21:00:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this first New Politics podcast episode of 2025, we examine conservative calls to celebrate Australia Day (Invasion Day) despite widespread ambivalence, Sussan Ley’s bizarre comparison of the First Fleet to an Elon Musk Mars mission, and highlight...
    Support New Politics, just $5 per month: 
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com 

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Let Me Entertain You’, Robbie Williams.
    3. ‘Off The Grid’, The Beastie Boys.
    4. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    3409auspol,australiaday,gaza,invasionday,trumpfalsefull    2025 election countdown: the battle for Australia’s futurehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2025-election-countdown-the-battle-for-australia-s-future--63387325
    Support New Politics:

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Feels Right’, Biig Piig.
    3. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63387325Fri, 20 Dec 2024 20:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we explore the key issues that will shape Australia’s 2025 federal election, from economic challenges and leadership struggles to the growing influence of independents. As Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton prepare for...
    Support New Politics:

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Feels Right’, Biig Piig.
    3. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    1751auspolfalsefull    2024: The Review of a Big Year in Politicshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2024-the-review-of-a-big-year-in-politics--63292762
    Support New Politics: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘All I Need’, AIR (feat. Beth Hirsch)
    3. ‘Dead Already’, Thomas Newman.
    4. ‘Dātura’, Tori Amos.
    5. ‘Silver Lining’, First Aid Kit.
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63292762Fri, 13 Dec 2024 20:30:06 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we explore the key issues that shaped Australian federal politics throughout 2024, examining the highs and lows, the moments that truly mattered, and those that didn’t. The state of the economy, the role of the media, the ongoing...
    Support New Politics: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘All I Need’, AIR (feat. Beth Hirsch)
    3. ‘Dead Already’, Thomas Newman.
    4. ‘Dātura’, Tori Amos.
    5. ‘Silver Lining’, First Aid Kit.
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    3293auspolfalsefull    Labor leadership disinformation and an environmental failhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/labor-leadership-disinformation-and-an-environmental-fail--63183362
    Support New Politics: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Dope Lemon’, Stonecutters.
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, The Boards Of Canada.
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63183362Fri, 06 Dec 2024 20:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we explore the media's exaggerated reports of a rift between Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek—a conflict that appears more fiction than fact that was triggered by yet another failed approach to...
    Support New Politics: 

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Dope Lemon’, Stonecutters.
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, The Boards Of Canada.
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    2763auspolfalsefull    The End of Parliament and Chasing War Criminalshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-end-of-parliament-and-chasing-war-criminals--63052876
    Support New Politics:
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Whisper’, Coldplay.
    3. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63052876Fri, 29 Nov 2024 20:30:07 +0000New PoliticsWe explore whether the Australian Greens have learned some tough political lessons on housing policy, reflect on the conclusion of the federal parliamentary year with many critical issues still unresolved, and look at the International Criminal...
    Support New Politics:
    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘Whisper’, Coldplay.
    3. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    2594auspol,housingaffordability,warcrimesfalsefull    Money, power and politics: Who really wins in Australia’s democracy?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/money-power-and-politics-who-really-wins-in-australia-s-democracy--62961402
    Support New Politics:

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘She’s My Lover (A Song For R.)’, Kid Loco.
    3. ‘Short Change Hero’, The Heavy.
    4. ‘Nice To Meet Ya’, Niall Horan.
    5. ‘Pretty Vacant’, Sofia (cover version).
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62961402Fri, 22 Nov 2024 20:30:06 +0000New PoliticsWe explore the proposed reforms to Australia’s donation laws and ask: who really benefits from these changes? The climate wars rage on, with the latest battle centred on the government’s delayed 2035 emissions reduction targets. Meanwhile, the...
    Support New Politics:

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Good Stuff’, The B-52s.
    2. ‘She’s My Lover (A Song For R.)’, Kid Loco.
    3. ‘Short Change Hero’, The Heavy.
    4. ‘Nice To Meet Ya’, Niall Horan.
    5. ‘Pretty Vacant’, Sofia (cover version).
    6. ‘Humiliation’, The National.

    ]]>    3003auspolfalsefull    The ridiculous social media ban and exporting Israel violencehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ridiculous-social-media-ban-and-exporting-israel-violence--62748569
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Humiliation’, The National.
    2. ‘Trouble’, Vox Noir.
    3. ‘Brasil’, Bellaire.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62748569Fri, 15 Nov 2024 20:30:06 +0000New PoliticsWe explore the government’s controversial plan to target under-16s with a social media ban, explore the continued media manipulation surrounding Israel, and examine why football violence seems to receive a troubling level of acceptance when...
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Humiliation’, The National.
    2. ‘Trouble’, Vox Noir.
    3. ‘Brasil’, Bellaire.

    ]]>    2547auspol,noagebanfalsefull    The Return of the American Conmanhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-return-of-the-american-conman--62659958
    Support New Politics:

    @ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    @ Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com


    Song listing:
    1. ‘All Along The Watchtower’, Afterhere (Bob Dylan cover).
    2. ‘Lose Fit’, Happy Mondays.
    3. ‘Swing For The Crime”, Ed Kuepper.
    4. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.
    5. ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’, The Who (remix).

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62659958Fri, 08 Nov 2024 20:30:02 +0000New PoliticsWe analyze the aftermath of the US election, where Donald Trump’s victory signals the return of the conman, criminal and clown show. Vote Dutton, Get Rinehart? We ask if voting for Peter Dutton is bringing Gina Rinehart’s influence into federal...
    Support New Politics:

    @ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    @ Substack: https://newpolitics.substack.com


    Song listing:
    1. ‘All Along The Watchtower’, Afterhere (Bob Dylan cover).
    2. ‘Lose Fit’, Happy Mondays.
    3. ‘Swing For The Crime”, Ed Kuepper.
    4. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.
    5. ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’, The Who (remix).

    ]]>    2873auspol,podcast,uselectionfalsefull    Queensland power shift, a flight attack on Labor, COVID and US electionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/queensland-power-shift-a-flight-attack-on-labor-covid-and-us-election--62577494
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Back In The USSR’, The Beatles (Kaktux Rock Da House remix).
    3. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    4. ‘Wild”, Spoon.
    5. ‘Release The Pressure’, Leftism.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62577494Fri, 01 Nov 2024 20:30:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we analyze the results of the Queensland election and uncover who the real losers are, as the media moves to yet another issue to target the federal Labor government—this time, over alleged flight upgrades. We also discuss the release...
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Back In The USSR’, The Beatles (Kaktux Rock Da House remix).
    3. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    4. ‘Wild”, Spoon.
    5. ‘Release The Pressure’, Leftism.
    ]]>    3015auspolfalsefull    Not My Kinghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/not-my-king--62496378
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Treaty’, Mitchell Cullen (Yothu Yindi).
    3. ‘Atomic Moog 2000’, Cold Cut.
    4. ‘Spitfire’, Public Service Broadcasting.
    5. ‘Release The Pressure’, Leftism.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62496378Fri, 25 Oct 2024 20:30:02 +0000New PoliticsSenator Lidia Thorpe confronts the king with her candid views on him and the royal family’s role in colonisation and genocide, raising the question of whether it’s time to reignite the debate about Australia becoming a republic and create a long...
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Treaty’, Mitchell Cullen (Yothu Yindi).
    3. ‘Atomic Moog 2000’, Cold Cut.
    4. ‘Spitfire’, Public Service Broadcasting.
    5. ‘Release The Pressure’, Leftism.
    ]]>    2958auspol,notmyking,republicfalsefull    NACC disasters, the Voice one year on, and 4.3 million reasons to not buy a househttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/nacc-disasters-the-voice-one-year-on-and-4-3-million-reasons-to-not-buy-a-house--62405951
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Bagi-la-m Bargan’, Birdz.
    3. ‘Everything’s Gone Green’, New Order.
    4. ‘Hard Road’, The Hilltop Hoods.
    5. ‘Release The Pressure’, Leftism.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62405951Fri, 18 Oct 2024 20:30:02 +0000New PoliticsThe National Anti-Corruption Commission has failed to do its job once again, this time finding no corruption in the Paladin affair. Meanwhile, one year after the defeat of the Voice to Parliament referendum, the issue of Indigenous recognition remains...
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Bagi-la-m Bargan’, Birdz.
    3. ‘Everything’s Gone Green’, New Order.
    4. ‘Hard Road’, The Hilltop Hoods.
    5. ‘Release The Pressure’, Leftism.

    ]]>    3266auspol,housingaffordability,qldpol,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Albanese v Dutton and the political struggle over Israel and Palestinehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/albanese-v-dutton-and-the-political-struggle-over-israel-and-palestine--62325138Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘All Along The Watchtower’, Afterhere (cover version).
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Release The Pressure’, Leftism.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62325138Fri, 11 Oct 2024 20:30:04 +0000New PoliticsWe explore a turbulent week in Australian politics: the Prime Minister sought to commemorate the victims of the October 7 attacks in Israel and Palestine, but faced sharp criticism from opposition leader Peter Dutton, who continues to push a divisive,...Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘All Along The Watchtower’, Afterhere (cover version).
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Release The Pressure’, Leftism.
    ]]>    29472025election,auspol,israelexpansion,palestinefalsefull    The surplus, Queensland election and Middle East tensions exploited in Australiahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-surplus-queensland-election-and-middle-east-tensions-exploited-in-australia--62219555
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Arion’, Blue States.
    4. ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, The Boards Of Canada.
    5. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62219555Fri, 04 Oct 2024 21:30:01 +0000New PoliticsThe Labor government has delivered its second consecutive surplus, but not everyone is pleased. Meanwhile, the Queensland election campaign is in full swing, a new special envoy for combating Islamophobia has been appointed, though few seem to know...
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Arion’, Blue States.
    4. ‘Dayvan Cowboy’, The Boards Of Canada.
    5. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2793auspol,queenslandfalsefull    The Greens interest rates overreach and who is going to stop Israel?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-greens-interest-rates-overreach-and-who-is-going-to-stop-israel--62123578
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Spitfire’, Public Service Broadcasting.
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Unknown Water’, Ella Fence
    6. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62123578Fri, 27 Sep 2024 21:30:02 +0000New PoliticsInterest rates are on hold, but the Australian Greens are calling on the government to take control of the Reserve Bank. Meanwhile, questions arise about potential changes to negative gearing, while Peter Dutton's nuclear fantasy roadshow continues to...
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Spitfire’, Public Service Broadcasting.
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    5. ‘Unknown Water’, Ella Fence
    6. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2854falsefull    Labor–Greens neoliberal battle and the ABC’s support for Trumphttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/labor-greens-neoliberal-battle-and-the-abc-s-support-for-trump--62039136
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Sweet About Me’, Gabriella Cilmi.
    4. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    5. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62039136Fri, 20 Sep 2024 21:30:02 +0000New PoliticsThe reforms to aged care, seemingly pulled straight from the neoliberal playbook, are based on a user-pay mentality, and it’s no wonder they’re supported by the Liberal Party. So why are they supported by the Labor government? Meanwhile, a significant...
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘Sweet About Me’, Gabriella Cilmi.
    4. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    5. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.

    ]]>    2656auspol,housingaffordability,uselectionfalsefull    Labor pays the price in the fruitless quest for bipartisanshiphttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/labor-pays-the-price-in-the-fruitless-quest-for-bipartisanship--61392763
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Loose Fit’, Happy Mondays.
    2. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    3. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61392763Fri, 13 Sep 2024 21:30:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we discuss Bill Shorten’s departure from politics and the legacy he leaves behind, the proposed reforms to the Reserve Bank Board and yet another failure of bipartisanship, the protests against weapons exports in Melbourne, and the...
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing: 
    1. ‘Loose Fit’, Happy Mondays.
    2. ‘Wild’, Spoon.
    3. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2542albanese,auspol,dutton,labor,qt,reservebankfalsefull    Behind the gridlock on fair taxes, environment protection and housinghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/behind-the-gridlock-on-fair-taxes-environment-protection-and-housing--61280435
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Let It Rock’, Kevin Rudolf, ft. Lil Wayne
    3. ‘State Of The Art (A.E.I.O.U.)’, Jim James.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61280435Fri, 06 Sep 2024 21:30:02 +0000New PoliticsWe explore the rising demands for a super-profits tax and a wealth tax – bring it on! – and question why the government continues to negotiate environmental policies with the Liberal Party, Australia’s notorious environmental vandals. We also look at...
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Let It Rock’, Kevin Rudolf, ft. Lil Wayne
    3. ‘State Of The Art (A.E.I.O.U.)’, Jim James.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2781auspol,housing,shorten,wealthtaxfalsefull    Go left Labor and eat the richhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/go-left-labor-and-eat-the-rich--61204449Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Off The Grid’, Beastie Boys. 
    3. ‘Release the Pressure’, Leftism. 
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61204449Fri, 30 Aug 2024 21:30:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we explore the implications of the Country Liberal Party's recent victory in the Northern Territory and whether there are lessons for the federal government to heed. We also discuss Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's declining...Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics
    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five.
    2. ‘Off The Grid’, Beastie Boys. 
    3. ‘Release the Pressure’, Leftism. 
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2859auspolfalsefull    Is Dutton a racist?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/is-dutton-a-racist--61124074
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Loser’, Beck.
    2. ‘La Femme d’Argent’, Air.
    3. ‘Bagi-la-m Bargan’, ft. Fred Leone, Birdz.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61124074Fri, 23 Aug 2024 21:30:02 +0000New PoliticsIn today's episode of New Politics, we ask the question: is Peter Dutton a racist or not? We put this claim to the test. Plus, we'll explore the Liberal Party's recent debacle in the NSW local council elections – what does their performance say about...
    Support New Politics: https://www.patreon.com/newpolitics

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Loser’, Beck.
    2. ‘La Femme d’Argent’, Air.
    3. ‘Bagi-la-m Bargan’, ft. Fred Leone, Birdz.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2948auspol,ndis,racismfalsefull    AUKUS disaster, media going down, Robodebt and the big silence on Gazahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/aukus-disaster-media-going-down-robodebt-and-the-big-silence-on-gaza--61049836
    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five.
    2. ‘The Hard Road’, Hilltop Hoods.
    3. ‘Bonnie And Clyde’ (French Accent Remix), Serge Gainsbourg and Brigitte Bardot.
    4. ‘All Along the Watchtower’ (Afterhere cover), Bob Dylan.
    5. ‘Crooked River’, Richard Pleasance.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61049836Fri, 16 Aug 2024 21:30:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we explore the AUKUS deal, surely one of worst deals in Australian history, the government's support for the media's reliance on gambling revenue for survival, the ongoing search for accountability for the Robodebt disaster, the...
    Song listing:
    1. ‘The Message’, Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five.
    2. ‘The Hard Road’, Hilltop Hoods.
    3. ‘Bonnie And Clyde’ (French Accent Remix), Serge Gainsbourg and Brigitte Bardot.
    4. ‘All Along the Watchtower’ (Afterhere cover), Bob Dylan.
    5. ‘Crooked River’, Richard Pleasance.
    ]]>    3429aukus,auspol,palestine,robodebtfalsefull    Albanese's Makarrata tightrope, the week in Canberra and defaming Linda Reynoldshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/albanese-s-makarrata-tightrope-the-week-in-canberra-and-defaming-linda-reynolds--60962866
    Song listing:
    1. ‘Back To The Crossroads’, Little Axe.
    2. ‘Feels Right’, Biig Piig.
    3. ‘Bagi-la-m Bargan’, Birdz 
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon. 
    5. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60962866Fri, 09 Aug 2024 21:30:07 +0000New PoliticsIs the Makarrata Commission fading away, or is Anthony Albanese dodging past failures and facing up to political realities? As the terror threat level rises, are we facing real danger or is it more of the same political machinations that were played...
    Song listing:
    1. ‘Back To The Crossroads’, Little Axe.
    2. ‘Feels Right’, Biig Piig.
    3. ‘Bagi-la-m Bargan’, Birdz 
    4. ‘Wild’, Spoon. 
    5. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    3053auspol,gambling,interestrates,lindareynolds,makarrata,terrorfalsefull    A new Cabinet, inflation up, corruption, and a real-life Succession going wronghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-new-cabinet-inflation-up-corruption-and-a-real-life-succession-going-wrong--60894400
    Song listing:
    1. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Keupper.
    2. ‘Effloresce And Deliquesce’, The Chills.
    3. ‘Wherever We Go’, Vera Blue.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60894400Fri, 02 Aug 2024 21:30:04 +0000New PoliticsThe cabinet reshuffle and what this means for the next election, the problems with the lack of action from the National Anti-Corruption Commission continue – is it time for Barnaby Joyce to leave politics for good? (Yes, of course it is) and a...
    Song listing:
    1. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Keupper.
    2. ‘Effloresce And Deliquesce’, The Chills.
    3. ‘Wherever We Go’, Vera Blue.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    3007auspol,corruption,newscorpfalsefull    Deep-fakes, a Cabinet reshuffle, the ICJ ruling and Australia’s media obsession with US politicshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/deep-fakes-a-cabinet-reshuffle-the-icj-ruling-and-australia-s-media-obsession-with-us-politics--60807771
    Song listing:
    1. ‘Gangnam Style’, PSY.
    2. ‘Dātura’, Tori Amos.
    3. ‘Trouble’, SATV Music.
    4. ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’, The Who.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60807771Fri, 26 Jul 2024 21:30:03 +0000New PoliticsDeep-fakes and AI are making an entrance into Australian politics, and there's a Cabinet reshuffle on the horizon. The International Court of Justice has ruled that the occupation by a certain country in the Middle East is illegal, prompting questions...
    Song listing:
    1. ‘Gangnam Style’, PSY.
    2. ‘Dātura’, Tori Amos.
    3. ‘Trouble’, SATV Music.
    4. ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’, The Who.

    ]]>    3009auspol,deepfakes,middleeast,uspoliticsfalsefull    Trump chaos in US politics and beyondhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trump-chaos-in-us-politics-and-beyond--60736759We also explore reactions from global leaders, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and the broader implications for American democracy. We examine how Trump's frequent public lies since 2015 have eroded trust, leading many to question the authenticity of this assassination attempt. Is it also time to reassess the US–Australia alliance and how the alliance affects Australian politics?
    We then focus on the declining respect for political processes in Australia, as highlighted by a recent Essential poll. With dissatisfaction levels reaching nearly 50 per cent, we discuss the persistent problems within the political system, the lack of incentive for change, and potential solutions such mixed-member and proportional representation.
    There are allegations corruption within the CMFEU, and we explore the media's portrayal of these issues, and the political ramifications for the Labor Party. We also analyse the latest Resolve Poll, which presents a challenging outlook for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Labor government. With a significant drop in primary votes and Peter Dutton emerging as the preferred prime minister, we discuss the electorate's shifting priorities and the impact of recent political events.
    Finally, we look at the upcoming royal visit by King Charles and Queen Camilla and speculate on the potential discussions about Australia moving towards becoming a republic and the broader significance of their visit.

    Song listing:
    1. “Connected”, Stereo MC’s.
    2. “Dead Already”, Thomas Newman.
    3. “Catcher and The Rye”, Cabins.
    4. “Wild”, Spoon.
    5. “Praise You”, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60736759Fri, 19 Jul 2024 21:30:03 +0000New PoliticsIn this week's episode of New Politics, we analyse the attempted assassination of US presidential candidate Donald Trump. This surreal event, with a lone shooter on a rooftop at a Trump rally, has sparked a whirlwind of conspiracy theories and...We also explore reactions from global leaders, including Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and the broader implications for American democracy. We examine how Trump's frequent public lies since 2015 have eroded trust, leading many to question the authenticity of this assassination attempt. Is it also time to reassess the US–Australia alliance and how the alliance affects Australian politics?
    We then focus on the declining respect for political processes in Australia, as highlighted by a recent Essential poll. With dissatisfaction levels reaching nearly 50 per cent, we discuss the persistent problems within the political system, the lack of incentive for change, and potential solutions such mixed-member and proportional representation.
    There are allegations corruption within the CMFEU, and we explore the media's portrayal of these issues, and the political ramifications for the Labor Party. We also analyse the latest Resolve Poll, which presents a challenging outlook for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Labor government. With a significant drop in primary votes and Peter Dutton emerging as the preferred prime minister, we discuss the electorate's shifting priorities and the impact of recent political events.
    Finally, we look at the upcoming royal visit by King Charles and Queen Camilla and speculate on the potential discussions about Australia moving towards becoming a republic and the broader significance of their visit.

    Song listing:
    1. “Connected”, Stereo MC’s.
    2. “Dead Already”, Thomas Newman.
    3. “Catcher and The Rye”, Cabins.
    4. “Wild”, Spoon.
    5. “Praise You”, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2888albanese,auspol,cmfeu,dutton,trumpfalsefull    Islamophobia, the last refuge of the scoundrelhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/islamophobia-the-last-refuge-of-the-scoundrel--60666190Our discussion focuses on the persistent failure of Australian politics and media to embrace the country's diversity. Despite having the most diverse federal parliament elected in 2022, both the political system and media lag behind in representing the true multicultural reality of Australia. We critique the mainstream media's tendency to exploit anti-Islam sentiment, illustrating a broader reluctance to accept diversity in politics and media.
    We also explore the emergence of The Muslim Vote, a new group aiming to educate and mobilise voters around issues related to the Middle East. This movement draws parallels with Climate 200 and has already provoked mainstream media outcry, highlighting the double standards in Australian politics where certain religions are deemed acceptable while Islam faces constant scrutiny.
    As we navigate the complex interplay between religion and politics, we question why some forms of religious influence are tolerated while others are demonised. The appointment of a special envoy to combat antisemitism by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, contrasted with the lack of similar attention to Islamophobia, exemplifies these double standards.
    Lastly, we consider the leadership of Peter Dutton and the potential impact of his divisive tactics on the upcoming election. While his hardline stance on issues like nuclear energy and Islam might appeal to certain factions, it risks further alienating the broader electorate.
    Join us as we unpack these critical issues, challenge the status quo, and advocate for a more inclusive and representative political landscape in Australia.
    Song listing:
    1. “Rain”, Turya.
    2. “Back To The Crossroads”, Little Axe.
    3. “Praise You”, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60666190Fri, 12 Jul 2024 21:31:08 +0000New PoliticsThis week on New Politics – one of the best podcasts on Australian politics – we look at the troubling rise of Islamophobia in Australian media, sparked by opposition leader Peter Dutton's comments linking minority government, the teals, Australian...Our discussion focuses on the persistent failure of Australian politics and media to embrace the country's diversity. Despite having the most diverse federal parliament elected in 2022, both the political system and media lag behind in representing the true multicultural reality of Australia. We critique the mainstream media's tendency to exploit anti-Islam sentiment, illustrating a broader reluctance to accept diversity in politics and media.
    We also explore the emergence of The Muslim Vote, a new group aiming to educate and mobilise voters around issues related to the Middle East. This movement draws parallels with Climate 200 and has already provoked mainstream media outcry, highlighting the double standards in Australian politics where certain religions are deemed acceptable while Islam faces constant scrutiny.
    As we navigate the complex interplay between religion and politics, we question why some forms of religious influence are tolerated while others are demonised. The appointment of a special envoy to combat antisemitism by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, contrasted with the lack of similar attention to Islamophobia, exemplifies these double standards.
    Lastly, we consider the leadership of Peter Dutton and the potential impact of his divisive tactics on the upcoming election. While his hardline stance on issues like nuclear energy and Islam might appeal to certain factions, it risks further alienating the broader electorate.
    Join us as we unpack these critical issues, challenge the status quo, and advocate for a more inclusive and representative political landscape in Australia.
    Song listing:
    1. “Rain”, Turya.
    2. “Back To The Crossroads”, Little Axe.
    3. “Praise You”, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2767auspol,islamophobiafalsefull    The battle for the heart and soul of Labor: from local tensions to global trendshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-battle-for-the-heart-and-soul-of-labor-from-local-tensions-to-global-trends--60606270
    In this episode, we explore the unfolding drama within Labor Party, highlighting the controversial suspension and subsequent resignation of Senator Fatima Payman. Her departure raises critical questions about party policies, internal democracy, and the broader implications for representation of diverse communities in politics. We look at her stance on Gaza, and the repercussions of crossing the floor to support a motion by the Australian Greens. Why should a Labor politician remain a member of Caucus if they refuse to follow the actions they supported when they were in opposition?

    We look the educational funding strategies under the current Labor government, critiquing the increasing financial support for private schools at the expense of public ones. This discussion opens up a broader conversation about the values and priorities of modern Labor policies and their impact on Australia’s educational landscape.

    Crossing continents, we analyse the recent UK election, where the Labour Party’s massive victory under Keir Starmer signals a new direction for Britain post-Brexit: he doesn’t have a choice. We discuss the historical parallels and the strategic silence that might have contributed to their win, alongside a forecast of potential policies and international stances.

    We also look at the broader spectrum of international politics, including the rise of far-right movements in Europe, particularly in France, and significant judicial decisions in the United States that could redefine the scope of presidential powers and the 2024 US election.

    Join us on New Politics as we navigate the complexities of these issues, offering a platform for critical thought, diverse perspectives, and a pulse on the shifts that shape our world.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘My Friend’, Groove Armada.
    2. ‘Blue Monday’, New Order.
    3. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60606270Fri, 05 Jul 2024 21:30:03 +0000New PoliticsWelcome to New Politics, as we unravel the intricate nature of global and national politics, reflecting on how the past shapes our present and future and deliver insightful analyses and expert commentary that keeps you informed and engaged. In this...
    In this episode, we explore the unfolding drama within Labor Party, highlighting the controversial suspension and subsequent resignation of Senator Fatima Payman. Her departure raises critical questions about party policies, internal democracy, and the broader implications for representation of diverse communities in politics. We look at her stance on Gaza, and the repercussions of crossing the floor to support a motion by the Australian Greens. Why should a Labor politician remain a member of Caucus if they refuse to follow the actions they supported when they were in opposition?

    We look the educational funding strategies under the current Labor government, critiquing the increasing financial support for private schools at the expense of public ones. This discussion opens up a broader conversation about the values and priorities of modern Labor policies and their impact on Australia’s educational landscape.

    Crossing continents, we analyse the recent UK election, where the Labour Party’s massive victory under Keir Starmer signals a new direction for Britain post-Brexit: he doesn’t have a choice. We discuss the historical parallels and the strategic silence that might have contributed to their win, alongside a forecast of potential policies and international stances.

    We also look at the broader spectrum of international politics, including the rise of far-right movements in Europe, particularly in France, and significant judicial decisions in the United States that could redefine the scope of presidential powers and the 2024 US election.

    Join us on New Politics as we navigate the complexities of these issues, offering a platform for critical thought, diverse perspectives, and a pulse on the shifts that shape our world.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘My Friend’, Groove Armada.
    2. ‘Blue Monday’, New Order.
    3. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    3008auspol,publicschools,ukelection2024,uselectionfalsefull    Julian Assange free, the nuclear debate continues and the GG payrisehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/julian-assange-free-the-nuclear-debate-continues-and-the-gg-payrise--60533735
    Despite criticism of the Albanese government for perceived slow action, significant diplomatic efforts behind the scenes have finally borne fruit – Jennifer Robinson, Assange’s legal counsel, praised the work of Albanese and others in securing his release, heralding it as a great day for media freedom.

    The charges against Assange were always contentious, serving more as a warning to potential whistleblowers than a pursuit of justice. The public’s right to know about government actions, especially in the context of the US military’s actions in Iraq and Afghanistan, is a central theme. Yet, the whistleblowers Assange and Chelsea Manning faced severe consequences, while the perpetrators of the exposed war crimes went unpunished. The case has also highlighted problems with the US Espionage Act, which needs reform.

    The nuclear debate in Australia, led by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, appears to have lost momentum – it was never a serious proposition anyway but served as a political tool to position Dutton as a leader with a plan, divert government resources, and amuse the media. Speculation now suggests the announcement was also a strategic move to fend off a potential leadership challenge from Angus Taylor, the Shadow Treasurer. Recent media scrutiny, particularly from traditionally conservative outlets, also indicates underlying leadership tensions within the Liberal Party.

    In response to the nuclear debate, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appointed Matt Kean, a former NSW Liberal Treasurer known for his climate activism, as the new chair of the Climate Change Agency. This move, while politically clever, aims to foster bipartisanship on climate issues, though it has upset some within both major political parties.

    Senator Fatima Payman made headlines by supporting a motion in the Senate to recognise the state of Palestine, aligning with historical Labor values. Despite the motion’s defeat, it symbolised a significant gesture of support for Palestine. Prime Minister Albanese indicated there would be no repercussions for Payman, highlighting the complex relationship between international relations and party politics. The genocide in Gaza continues with daily attacks by the Israeli Defense Force against civilians but despite reduced media coverage in recent weeks, anti-war and anti-genocide protests continue across Australia. The conflict threatens to destabilise the Middle East further, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution.

    Samantha Mostyn, the incoming Governor–General, will begin her term with a notable salary increase, and this has sparked controversy, given the current cost-of-living pressures. However, the increase aligns with legislative decisions and the comparative lack of a military or judiciary pension for Mostyn, distinguishing her from her predecessors.

    This episode of New Politics – one of the best Australian politics podcasts – explores these complex political issues, providing in-depth analysis and discussion on the implications for Australia and beyond.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60533735Fri, 28 Jun 2024 21:30:03 +0000New PoliticsJulian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has been released from Belmarsh Jail after over five years of incarceration. This marks the end of a prolonged saga that began in 2010 when WikiLeaks released footage showing the US military committing acts...
    Despite criticism of the Albanese government for perceived slow action, significant diplomatic efforts behind the scenes have finally borne fruit – Jennifer Robinson, Assange’s legal counsel, praised the work of Albanese and others in securing his release, heralding it as a great day for media freedom.

    The charges against Assange were always contentious, serving more as a warning to potential whistleblowers than a pursuit of justice. The public’s right to know about government actions, especially in the context of the US military’s actions in Iraq and Afghanistan, is a central theme. Yet, the whistleblowers Assange and Chelsea Manning faced severe consequences, while the perpetrators of the exposed war crimes went unpunished. The case has also highlighted problems with the US Espionage Act, which needs reform.

    The nuclear debate in Australia, led by Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, appears to have lost momentum – it was never a serious proposition anyway but served as a political tool to position Dutton as a leader with a plan, divert government resources, and amuse the media. Speculation now suggests the announcement was also a strategic move to fend off a potential leadership challenge from Angus Taylor, the Shadow Treasurer. Recent media scrutiny, particularly from traditionally conservative outlets, also indicates underlying leadership tensions within the Liberal Party.

    In response to the nuclear debate, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appointed Matt Kean, a former NSW Liberal Treasurer known for his climate activism, as the new chair of the Climate Change Agency. This move, while politically clever, aims to foster bipartisanship on climate issues, though it has upset some within both major political parties.

    Senator Fatima Payman made headlines by supporting a motion in the Senate to recognise the state of Palestine, aligning with historical Labor values. Despite the motion’s defeat, it symbolised a significant gesture of support for Palestine. Prime Minister Albanese indicated there would be no repercussions for Payman, highlighting the complex relationship between international relations and party politics. The genocide in Gaza continues with daily attacks by the Israeli Defense Force against civilians but despite reduced media coverage in recent weeks, anti-war and anti-genocide protests continue across Australia. The conflict threatens to destabilise the Middle East further, highlighting the urgent need for a resolution.

    Samantha Mostyn, the incoming Governor–General, will begin her term with a notable salary increase, and this has sparked controversy, given the current cost-of-living pressures. However, the increase aligns with legislative decisions and the comparative lack of a military or judiciary pension for Mostyn, distinguishing her from her predecessors.

    This episode of New Politics – one of the best Australian politics podcasts – explores these complex political issues, providing in-depth analysis and discussion on the implications for Australia and beyond.]]>    3125assange,auspol,gaza,nuclearenergyfalsefull    The nuclear mirage and Dutton’s losing climate gamblehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-nuclear-mirage-and-dutton-s-losing-climate-gamble--60457025
    Nuclear power in Australia faces significant hurdles, primarily due to the high costs involved, and nuclear energy is an expensive option, especially when compared to the more affordable renewable energy alternatives. Six out of the seven proposed nuclear sites are in safe Liberal or National party seats, indicating a strategic choice to avoid backlash in more contentious areas – it might mitigate the “not in my backyard” syndrome but raises questions about the true intent behind the proposal.

    It’s a high-risk strategy with scant details – the Coalition hasn’t specified the type, size, or cost of the nuclear reactors, leaving the public to wonder about the feasibility of the plan. Even if there were massive public support for nuclear energy, this proposal is filled with so much uncertainty that it’s hard to imagine it gaining traction.

    Globally, the trend is moving away from nuclear energy. Countries such as Japan and Germany have significantly reduced their reliance on nuclear power, transitioning to renewable energy sources. Despite some nations like France and Slovakia maintaining high levels of nuclear energy, the global supply from nuclear is declining, while renewable energy is on the rise.

    The Coalition’s nuclear announcement will have local political ramifications, benefiting groups such as Climate 200 – key supporter of the teal independents – and the Australian Greens. Climate 200 has targeted nine extra seats for the next federal election, with several in marginal areas. This nuclear proposal might bolster their chances, as well as those of the Greens in key seats.

    Peter Dutton’s rise as the preferred Prime Minister in a recent Resolve Poll is another development worth noting. While the margin over Anthony Albanese is slim, and critics argue this could be an outlier, it reflects growing concerns about Albanese’s cautious leadership style. The Albanese government’s attempts to appease News Corporation and its handling of key issues have led to questions about their political strategy. Has this strategy been worth it?

    We also discuss China Premier Li Qiang’s visit to Australia, which the media has portrayed with suspicion and their usual anti-China rhetoric. This visit was covered neutrally by international outlets but sensationalised by the Australian media. This anti-China sentiment, leveraged by conservative politics, contrasts with the Labor government’s efforts to normalise relations with China, which could benefit the Australian economy.

    Finally, we look at the recent pay rise for federal politicians, a quietly implemented increase of 3.5 per cent. In the context of a cost-of-living crisis, this move seems ill-timed and out of touch with the electorate’s struggles, suggesting that solidarity with voters might have been a more strategic choice.

    Join us as we unpack these developments and explore their implications for Australian politics and beyond.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60457025Fri, 21 Jun 2024 21:30:03 +0000New PoliticsIn this week’s episode of News Politics, we look at the latest escalation in the climate wars – the latest chapter has the Coalition turning up the heat by announcing seven proposed locations for nuclear power stations. As we’ve suggested before,...
    Nuclear power in Australia faces significant hurdles, primarily due to the high costs involved, and nuclear energy is an expensive option, especially when compared to the more affordable renewable energy alternatives. Six out of the seven proposed nuclear sites are in safe Liberal or National party seats, indicating a strategic choice to avoid backlash in more contentious areas – it might mitigate the “not in my backyard” syndrome but raises questions about the true intent behind the proposal.

    It’s a high-risk strategy with scant details – the Coalition hasn’t specified the type, size, or cost of the nuclear reactors, leaving the public to wonder about the feasibility of the plan. Even if there were massive public support for nuclear energy, this proposal is filled with so much uncertainty that it’s hard to imagine it gaining traction.

    Globally, the trend is moving away from nuclear energy. Countries such as Japan and Germany have significantly reduced their reliance on nuclear power, transitioning to renewable energy sources. Despite some nations like France and Slovakia maintaining high levels of nuclear energy, the global supply from nuclear is declining, while renewable energy is on the rise.

    The Coalition’s nuclear announcement will have local political ramifications, benefiting groups such as Climate 200 – key supporter of the teal independents – and the Australian Greens. Climate 200 has targeted nine extra seats for the next federal election, with several in marginal areas. This nuclear proposal might bolster their chances, as well as those of the Greens in key seats.

    Peter Dutton’s rise as the preferred Prime Minister in a recent Resolve Poll is another development worth noting. While the margin over Anthony Albanese is slim, and critics argue this could be an outlier, it reflects growing concerns about Albanese’s cautious leadership style. The Albanese government’s attempts to appease News Corporation and its handling of key issues have led to questions about their political strategy. Has this strategy been worth it?

    We also discuss China Premier Li Qiang’s visit to Australia, which the media has portrayed with suspicion and their usual anti-China rhetoric. This visit was covered neutrally by international outlets but sensationalised by the Australian media. This anti-China sentiment, leveraged by conservative politics, contrasts with the Labor government’s efforts to normalise relations with China, which could benefit the Australian economy.

    Finally, we look at the recent pay rise for federal politicians, a quietly implemented increase of 3.5 per cent. In the context of a cost-of-living crisis, this move seems ill-timed and out of touch with the electorate’s struggles, suggesting that solidarity with voters might have been a more strategic choice.

    Join us as we unpack these developments and explore their implications for Australian politics and beyond.]]>    3328auspol,climatechange,nuclearfalsefull    The failure of NACC and the return of the climate warshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-failure-of-nacc-and-the-return-of-the-climate-wars--60380780
    We look at the ramifications of this decision, which has not only disillusioned many affected by the Robodebt scheme—a policy that has been linked to immense financial and personal distress—but also raised questions about the effectiveness and independence of the NACC. With over $1.8 billion lost and profound societal impacts, including over 2,000 suicides, the decision to forego investigation into a scheme deemed neither fair nor legal by many scholars and legal analysts has sparked significant public outcry.

    Further complicating the political landscape are the revived “climate wars,” with Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton’s controversial statements on withdrawing from the Paris agreement and refusing to set new emissions targets unless elected. We unpack the potential political and environmental consequences of such positions, especially in light of the significant electoral shifts in traditionally conservative areas, which now demand greater action on climate change. How will the Liberal Party gain the seats it needs to win at the next election if it just antagonises the electorate?

    Also, we touch on the ongoing tensions surrounding the King’s Birthday honours and the recent media uproar involving former Liberal Treasurer Peter Costello at Nine Media, alongside global issues such as the continuing dire situation in Gaza. With escalating violence and international diplomatic efforts to broker peace, we examine the broader implications of these conflicts on global politics and humanitarian efforts.

    Join us as we explore these pressing issues, and uncover the layers of complexity in these governance challenges and the ongoing struggle for integrity and accountability in Australian politics.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60380780Fri, 14 Jun 2024 21:30:03 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we explore the troubling decision by the National Anti-Corruption Commission to not pursue investigations against six public officials previously involved with the Coalition government’s Robodebt scheme. Despite...
    We look at the ramifications of this decision, which has not only disillusioned many affected by the Robodebt scheme—a policy that has been linked to immense financial and personal distress—but also raised questions about the effectiveness and independence of the NACC. With over $1.8 billion lost and profound societal impacts, including over 2,000 suicides, the decision to forego investigation into a scheme deemed neither fair nor legal by many scholars and legal analysts has sparked significant public outcry.

    Further complicating the political landscape are the revived “climate wars,” with Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton’s controversial statements on withdrawing from the Paris agreement and refusing to set new emissions targets unless elected. We unpack the potential political and environmental consequences of such positions, especially in light of the significant electoral shifts in traditionally conservative areas, which now demand greater action on climate change. How will the Liberal Party gain the seats it needs to win at the next election if it just antagonises the electorate?

    Also, we touch on the ongoing tensions surrounding the King’s Birthday honours and the recent media uproar involving former Liberal Treasurer Peter Costello at Nine Media, alongside global issues such as the continuing dire situation in Gaza. With escalating violence and international diplomatic efforts to broker peace, we examine the broader implications of these conflicts on global politics and humanitarian efforts.

    Join us as we explore these pressing issues, and uncover the layers of complexity in these governance challenges and the ongoing struggle for integrity and accountability in Australian politics.
    ]]>    3401auspol,climatechange,gazafalsefull    The Frydenberg failure, Shorten’s expensive speechwriting and what’s behind Nature Positive?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-frydenberg-failure-shorten-s-expensive-speechwriting-and-what-s-behind-nature-positive--60307061We examine Frydenberg’s decision not to re-enter the political fray despite persistent media encouragement, particularly from outlets such as the ABC and Sky News. There are reasons why Frydenberg lost his seat to independent Monique Ryan in the 2022 election: he is not as effective as the media would have us believe.
    This episode also highlights broader challenges facing the Liberal Party, marked by internal conflicts and leadership challenges in preparation for the post-Peter Dutton era. The upheavals within the Victoria branch of the Liberal Party, infiltrated by religious zealots, highlights its struggle to re-establish itself, especially in upcoming contests such as the one in Kooyong against Monique Ryan, who appears well-established in the seat.
    Also, we cast a spotlight on the significant, yet often overshadowed, role of speechwriters in political communication and debate the controversy around the hefty remuneration—$300,000!—for the speechwriter of Minister Bill Shorten. We debate the value of such investments in the context of political efficacy and public perception.
    We critique the Labor government’s approach to environmental policy, particularly the newly introduced Nature Positive Bill, questioning its effectiveness and alignment with prior promises and the expectations of progressive constituents. “Nature positive”—is this just spin and political marketing, or is there something substantial behind it?
    And is it enough for the Labor government to be slightly better than the Coalition, which was in office from 2013 to 2022 and was arguably one of the worst governments in Australian history? No, it is not: they need to perform much better and be held accountable when they fail to deliver on the key issues they promised from the opposition.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60307061Fri, 07 Jun 2024 21:30:03 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we explore the reasons behind the significant stir within the conservative mainstream media sparked by rumours of former Liberal Party MP Josh Frydenberg’s potential return to federal politics. Once a key figure as the...We examine Frydenberg’s decision not to re-enter the political fray despite persistent media encouragement, particularly from outlets such as the ABC and Sky News. There are reasons why Frydenberg lost his seat to independent Monique Ryan in the 2022 election: he is not as effective as the media would have us believe.
    This episode also highlights broader challenges facing the Liberal Party, marked by internal conflicts and leadership challenges in preparation for the post-Peter Dutton era. The upheavals within the Victoria branch of the Liberal Party, infiltrated by religious zealots, highlights its struggle to re-establish itself, especially in upcoming contests such as the one in Kooyong against Monique Ryan, who appears well-established in the seat.
    Also, we cast a spotlight on the significant, yet often overshadowed, role of speechwriters in political communication and debate the controversy around the hefty remuneration—$300,000!—for the speechwriter of Minister Bill Shorten. We debate the value of such investments in the context of political efficacy and public perception.
    We critique the Labor government’s approach to environmental policy, particularly the newly introduced Nature Positive Bill, questioning its effectiveness and alignment with prior promises and the expectations of progressive constituents. “Nature positive”—is this just spin and political marketing, or is there something substantial behind it?
    And is it enough for the Labor government to be slightly better than the Coalition, which was in office from 2013 to 2022 and was arguably one of the worst governments in Australian history? No, it is not: they need to perform much better and be held accountable when they fail to deliver on the key issues they promised from the opposition.]]>    2377auspolfalsefull    Labor’s crafty offer for a second term and News Corp in a Tinglehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/labor-s-crafty-offer-for-a-second-term-and-news-corp-in-a-tingle--60230005Amidst this electoral anticipation, pressing issues from the current term still demand resolution. Economic management remains a concern, and other ongoing issues include housing, the “future made in Australia” program, domestic violence, and energy pricing. These are long-term challenges that require continuous management rather than immediate solutions.
    Immigration continued to be as a contentious issue for the government, particularly concerning the deportation of non-citizens who have committed crimes – Peter Dutton is expected to capitalise on this topic – as conservatives usually do – a natural territory for him, leading up to the next election.
    For the Labor government, some supporters on the left believe that a second term will allow for the implementation of more radical social policies. However, there is no clear evidence of what Labor intends to pursue in a potential second term. Historically, second terms of Labor governments have varied in productivity and political stability, as seen in comparisons between the Hawke, Whitlam, and Gillard governments. Speculations about a second term under Prime Minister Albanese suggest it might mirror the first term in its cautious and steady approach.
    Racism has re-entered the national debate following comments by ABC journalist Laura Tingle at the Sydney Writers Festival. Her remarks about Australia’s racist tendencies sparked outrage from News Corporation, demanding her reprimand, as well as their usual calls to defund the ABC. We examine the broader context of racism in Australia, from historical policies to contemporary issues, and the media’s role in perpetuating or challenging these narratives.
    The ABC fails to protect its journalists from external attacks – Stan Grant, Yasmin Abdel-Magied, and Antoinette Latouf are prime examples of this – but Laura Tingle, as a senior journalist and ABC board member, represents a tougher challenge for removal. Will she stay, or will she go?
    The media’s influence on politics is another focal point, with Sky News and News Corporation acting as political activists for the Liberal Party. The Prime Minister Albanese’s more detailed recognition of media issues in the Democracy Sausage podcast highlights this point, though his reluctance to act remains puzzling.
    Finally, we cover the Australian Greens’ motion to debate the recognition of the state of Palestine, which was swiftly defeated. We also address the duplicity of political statements on Palestine and the broader implications for Australian foreign policy. The reluctance to take a stand on Palestine is linked to fear of backlash from pro-Israel lobby groups, a dynamic mirrored in UK and US politics.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60230005Fri, 31 May 2024 21:30:03 +0000New PoliticsIn this week’s episode of New Politics, we explore the recent parliamentary session where the Prime Minister informed the Labor Caucus that they are “crafting the offer for a second term.” This statement has been widely interpreted as a preparatory...Amidst this electoral anticipation, pressing issues from the current term still demand resolution. Economic management remains a concern, and other ongoing issues include housing, the “future made in Australia” program, domestic violence, and energy pricing. These are long-term challenges that require continuous management rather than immediate solutions.
    Immigration continued to be as a contentious issue for the government, particularly concerning the deportation of non-citizens who have committed crimes – Peter Dutton is expected to capitalise on this topic – as conservatives usually do – a natural territory for him, leading up to the next election.
    For the Labor government, some supporters on the left believe that a second term will allow for the implementation of more radical social policies. However, there is no clear evidence of what Labor intends to pursue in a potential second term. Historically, second terms of Labor governments have varied in productivity and political stability, as seen in comparisons between the Hawke, Whitlam, and Gillard governments. Speculations about a second term under Prime Minister Albanese suggest it might mirror the first term in its cautious and steady approach.
    Racism has re-entered the national debate following comments by ABC journalist Laura Tingle at the Sydney Writers Festival. Her remarks about Australia’s racist tendencies sparked outrage from News Corporation, demanding her reprimand, as well as their usual calls to defund the ABC. We examine the broader context of racism in Australia, from historical policies to contemporary issues, and the media’s role in perpetuating or challenging these narratives.
    The ABC fails to protect its journalists from external attacks – Stan Grant, Yasmin Abdel-Magied, and Antoinette Latouf are prime examples of this – but Laura Tingle, as a senior journalist and ABC board member, represents a tougher challenge for removal. Will she stay, or will she go?
    The media’s influence on politics is another focal point, with Sky News and News Corporation acting as political activists for the Liberal Party. The Prime Minister Albanese’s more detailed recognition of media issues in the Democracy Sausage podcast highlights this point, though his reluctance to act remains puzzling.
    Finally, we cover the Australian Greens’ motion to debate the recognition of the state of Palestine, which was swiftly defeated. We also address the duplicity of political statements on Palestine and the broader implications for Australian foreign policy. The reluctance to take a stand on Palestine is linked to fear of backlash from pro-Israel lobby groups, a dynamic mirrored in UK and US politics.]]>    3066auspol,lauratingle,mediareformfalsefull    The battle over nuclear and immigration, free Assange now and the ICC case against Israelhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-battle-over-nuclear-and-immigration-free-assange-now-and-the-icc-case-against-israel--60157429We assess the strategic positioning of the opposition’s controversial stance on reducing immigration and promoting nuclear energy – despite expert evidence pointing to the high costs and long timelines associated with nuclear power, as highlighted by recent CSIRO reports, the Liberal and National parties are still pushing ahead with nuclear energy, despite the feasibility and sincerity of these policies. And despite fluctuations in opinion polls, the Labor government still remains favoured to win the next election, especially when consideration perceptions of government performance over the past 11 years.
    In a major international segment, we discuss the recent developments concerning Julian Assange’s legal battles, including his right to appeal extradition to the United States, the complexities of international law, the potential implications of his case, and broader human rights concerns. Assange should not be in jail and the charges should be dropped and we question whether the government has done enough to secure his release.
    We also look at the federal government’s considerations to restrict social media usage among individuals under 16, reflecting on the potential impacts and challenges of such a policy. While it’s without question that social media has an impact on young people – all people, in fact – it’s not clear whether the government’s proposals will actually make a difference.
    There are significant developments in international relations in the Middle East, notably the International Criminal Court’s recent actions against Israeli and Palestinian leaders, and the recognition of Palestine by several European nations. We provide a comprehensive analysis of these events, their implications on global diplomacy, and the varying responses from political leaders, and what this means for politics in Australia.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60157429Fri, 24 May 2024 21:30:02 +0000New PoliticsWelcome to this week’s episode of New Politics, where we analyse the latest events in Australian politics, global diplomacy, and the intersection of law and human rights. We dissect the aftermath of the federal budget and the opposition’s budget reply...We assess the strategic positioning of the opposition’s controversial stance on reducing immigration and promoting nuclear energy – despite expert evidence pointing to the high costs and long timelines associated with nuclear power, as highlighted by recent CSIRO reports, the Liberal and National parties are still pushing ahead with nuclear energy, despite the feasibility and sincerity of these policies. And despite fluctuations in opinion polls, the Labor government still remains favoured to win the next election, especially when consideration perceptions of government performance over the past 11 years.
    In a major international segment, we discuss the recent developments concerning Julian Assange’s legal battles, including his right to appeal extradition to the United States, the complexities of international law, the potential implications of his case, and broader human rights concerns. Assange should not be in jail and the charges should be dropped and we question whether the government has done enough to secure his release.
    We also look at the federal government’s considerations to restrict social media usage among individuals under 16, reflecting on the potential impacts and challenges of such a policy. While it’s without question that social media has an impact on young people – all people, in fact – it’s not clear whether the government’s proposals will actually make a difference.
    There are significant developments in international relations in the Middle East, notably the International Criminal Court’s recent actions against Israeli and Palestinian leaders, and the recognition of Palestine by several European nations. We provide a comprehensive analysis of these events, their implications on global diplomacy, and the varying responses from political leaders, and what this means for politics in Australia.]]>    3066auspol,icc,julianassange,palestinefalsefull    The big 2024 Budget analysis, gaslighting gas and a whistleblower goes to jailhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-big-2024-budget-analysis-gaslighting-gas-and-a-whistleblower-goes-to-jail--60066678We also look at the underlying priorities revealed in the Budget, such as the $11 billion in fossil fuel subsidies juxtaposed against the $6.5 billion allocated for social housing and homelessness, and the relatively minimal support for the arts and creative industries.
    What is the significance of the Budget in the context of the next federal election and how does it set the stage for the campaign? Will there even be another Budget before the next election? It’s unlikely: this smells like, tastes like and looks like a pre-election Budget, we don’t think there’ll be another one in this parliamentary term.
    We also turn our attention to the federal government’s new Future Gas Strategy, which looks very similar to Scott Morrison’s much-derided 2020 gas-led recovery plan – we discuss the environmental and economic ramifications of expanding gas production until 2050 and ask the question: how does pumping more greenhouse emissions into the atmosphere actually decrease greenhouse emissions, as claimed by the minister for resources? It doesn’t – but a bit of gaslighting of the electorate will always reduce the political problem.
    We then cover the sentencing of whistleblower David McBride, who exposed war crimes committed by Australian Special Forces in Afghanistan. This case raises significant questions about whistleblower protections and the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Why is McBride in jail, when the people who committed the war crimes are still free?
    And Senator Fatima Payman displays more courage in her little left finger than the entire government and she will probably pay a large price for this courage. That’s Australian politics: courage is always punished, cowardice is always rewarded.
    Song listing:
    1. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    2. Blue Sky Mine’, Midnight Oil.
    3. ‘Everybody Knows’, Sigrid (cover version).
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60066678Fri, 17 May 2024 21:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we provide an alternative assessment of the 2024 Budget, exploring its reception across various media outlets, economic assessments, and the underlying political machinations. Of course, most of the reactions from...We also look at the underlying priorities revealed in the Budget, such as the $11 billion in fossil fuel subsidies juxtaposed against the $6.5 billion allocated for social housing and homelessness, and the relatively minimal support for the arts and creative industries.
    What is the significance of the Budget in the context of the next federal election and how does it set the stage for the campaign? Will there even be another Budget before the next election? It’s unlikely: this smells like, tastes like and looks like a pre-election Budget, we don’t think there’ll be another one in this parliamentary term.
    We also turn our attention to the federal government’s new Future Gas Strategy, which looks very similar to Scott Morrison’s much-derided 2020 gas-led recovery plan – we discuss the environmental and economic ramifications of expanding gas production until 2050 and ask the question: how does pumping more greenhouse emissions into the atmosphere actually decrease greenhouse emissions, as claimed by the minister for resources? It doesn’t – but a bit of gaslighting of the electorate will always reduce the political problem.
    We then cover the sentencing of whistleblower David McBride, who exposed war crimes committed by Australian Special Forces in Afghanistan. This case raises significant questions about whistleblower protections and the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability. Why is McBride in jail, when the people who committed the war crimes are still free?
    And Senator Fatima Payman displays more courage in her little left finger than the entire government and she will probably pay a large price for this courage. That’s Australian politics: courage is always punished, cowardice is always rewarded.
    Song listing:
    1. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    2. Blue Sky Mine’, Midnight Oil.
    3. ‘Everybody Knows’, Sigrid (cover version).
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    3263auspol,budget2024,davidmcbridefalsefull    The voices of the Palestine protests and the continuing pre-Budget speculationhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-voices-of-the-palestine-protests-and-the-continuing-pre-budget-speculation--59957118We also discuss the upcoming United Nations vote on whether to recognise Palestine as a full member state—a topic of intense international diplomacy and contention. We dissect the complexities behind the U.S. and other major powers’ positions on this issue, exploring how past actions and present debates at the U.N. reflect on the broader challenges of achieving a two-state solution in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. Could the events in East Timor from 1999 offer any guidance?
    On the domestic front, we look into the federal government’s pre-Budget announcements, highlighting the proposed changes to the HECS debt system and other fiscal policies including tax cuts, cost-of-living adjustments, and support mechanisms like the Future Made In Australia program. We question the effectiveness and timing of these announcements, considering the broader context of national economic strategy and upcoming electoral considerations.
    Finally, we revisit the debate on manufacturing in Australia, focusing on the end of car manufacturing by the Coalition in 2013—despite their denials that they weren’t responsible for this—and its long-term impacts on communities. We analyse political narratives and accountability, examining the current government’s efforts to revitalise the sector, against the backdrop of past policy decisions that have shaped the economic landscape.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59957118Fri, 10 May 2024 21:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this in-depth episode of New Politics, we take a closer look at a series of significant events impacting global politics, human rights, and national economic policies. We begin by examining the escalating student-led pro-Palestine protests that...We also discuss the upcoming United Nations vote on whether to recognise Palestine as a full member state—a topic of intense international diplomacy and contention. We dissect the complexities behind the U.S. and other major powers’ positions on this issue, exploring how past actions and present debates at the U.N. reflect on the broader challenges of achieving a two-state solution in the Israeli–Palestinian conflict. Could the events in East Timor from 1999 offer any guidance?
    On the domestic front, we look into the federal government’s pre-Budget announcements, highlighting the proposed changes to the HECS debt system and other fiscal policies including tax cuts, cost-of-living adjustments, and support mechanisms like the Future Made In Australia program. We question the effectiveness and timing of these announcements, considering the broader context of national economic strategy and upcoming electoral considerations.
    Finally, we revisit the debate on manufacturing in Australia, focusing on the end of car manufacturing by the Coalition in 2013—despite their denials that they weren’t responsible for this—and its long-term impacts on communities. We analyse political narratives and accountability, examining the current government’s efforts to revitalise the sector, against the backdrop of past policy decisions that have shaped the economic landscape.]]>    2568auspol,gazaprotestsfalsefull    Why is ending domestic violence so difficult? It’s a question men still can’t answer…https://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-is-ending-domestic-violence-so-difficult-it-s-a-question-men-still-can-t-answer--59791449We also look at the political dynamics at play, particularly focusing on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s involvement at the No More rally – should he have been there? Or not been there? Albanese didn’t seem to read the room very well – or the crowd – and the substantial political fallout could have been avoided if he avoided the centre stage. But he would have been criticised anyway, so what should a Prime Minister? As always, the answer is: “just do the right thing”. Implementing the best policies to reduce domestic violence would have avoided the need for a rally in the first place.
    Despite the announcement of $925 million to aid victims and new bans intended to protect against digital abuses, we question the effectiveness of funding without societal and cultural changes to address the root causes of domestic violence.
    We then look at the role of the media in shaping public perception and the political narrative and scrutinise how various media outlets negatively reported on the rally and the government’s actions, examining the impact of sensationalism and political bias on the actual issues at hand.
    We also look at mental health, as highlighted by former Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s public discussion of his struggles while he was in office and a broader debate on the adequacy of government action and funding for mental health services. Should we feel any sympathy for Morrison’s revelations? His actions in office included attacking asylum seekers, the disastrous Robodebt scheme, cutbacks to mental health services, especially for young adults. Maybe not.
    Join us as we navigate these political and social issues, seeking clarity on what has been done, what could be done better, and the ongoing impact of political and media narratives on real-world problems.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59791449Fri, 03 May 2024 21:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we explore the eternal issue of domestic violence in Australia, exploring the recent headlines and government actions – or lack thereof – that have fueled both media coverage and public discourse. We begin with the No...We also look at the political dynamics at play, particularly focusing on Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s involvement at the No More rally – should he have been there? Or not been there? Albanese didn’t seem to read the room very well – or the crowd – and the substantial political fallout could have been avoided if he avoided the centre stage. But he would have been criticised anyway, so what should a Prime Minister? As always, the answer is: “just do the right thing”. Implementing the best policies to reduce domestic violence would have avoided the need for a rally in the first place.
    Despite the announcement of $925 million to aid victims and new bans intended to protect against digital abuses, we question the effectiveness of funding without societal and cultural changes to address the root causes of domestic violence.
    We then look at the role of the media in shaping public perception and the political narrative and scrutinise how various media outlets negatively reported on the rally and the government’s actions, examining the impact of sensationalism and political bias on the actual issues at hand.
    We also look at mental health, as highlighted by former Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s public discussion of his struggles while he was in office and a broader debate on the adequacy of government action and funding for mental health services. Should we feel any sympathy for Morrison’s revelations? His actions in office included attacking asylum seekers, the disastrous Robodebt scheme, cutbacks to mental health services, especially for young adults. Maybe not.
    Join us as we navigate these political and social issues, seeking clarity on what has been done, what could be done better, and the ongoing impact of political and media narratives on real-world problems.]]>    2738auspol,domesticviolencefalsefull    Australia’s economic resurgence, a war on Twitter/X and the hexed HECS educational challengehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/australia-s-economic-resurgence-a-war-on-twitter-x-and-the-hexed-hecs-educational-challenge--59653330We also discuss the Future Made in Australia initiative announced by the Prime Minister, focusing on renewable energy projects and advanced manufacturing, aiming to boost local job creation. Despite the lack of detailed plans, the initiative has garnered substantial community and industry support, although it faces criticism from conservative figures and media. No surprises there.
    There’s a controversial debate around free speech and whether Twitter (‘X’ or whatever people wish to call it) should remove a video of a violent stabbing incident in Sydney’s west and the subsequent social media uproar involving global platforms and Australian government responses. It’s a vexed issue: perhaps there should be restrictions on this kind of violence on social media but if is restricted, does that mean we would never find out what’s really happening in Gaza and Ukraine? It might be a case of being careful for what you wish for. 
    Lastly, we look at the pressing issues in education, from potential relief for graduates burdened by HECS debts to the contentious funding of private schools, which highlights a significant disparity in government support compared to public schools.
    Join us as we unpack these complex topics, providing insights into Australia’s current economic strategies, the media, and educational policies.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The King Is Dead’, The Herd.
    2. ‘Freedom!’, George Michael (Marc Martel cover).
    3. ‘Field Of Glass’, The Triffids.
    4. ‘La Femme d’Argent’, Air.
    5. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59653330Fri, 26 Apr 2024 21:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we explore Australia’s remarkable economic ascent, now ranking second among G20 nations, a significant leap from its previous positions. We explore the factors behind this growth and the impact of government policies...We also discuss the Future Made in Australia initiative announced by the Prime Minister, focusing on renewable energy projects and advanced manufacturing, aiming to boost local job creation. Despite the lack of detailed plans, the initiative has garnered substantial community and industry support, although it faces criticism from conservative figures and media. No surprises there.
    There’s a controversial debate around free speech and whether Twitter (‘X’ or whatever people wish to call it) should remove a video of a violent stabbing incident in Sydney’s west and the subsequent social media uproar involving global platforms and Australian government responses. It’s a vexed issue: perhaps there should be restrictions on this kind of violence on social media but if is restricted, does that mean we would never find out what’s really happening in Gaza and Ukraine? It might be a case of being careful for what you wish for. 
    Lastly, we look at the pressing issues in education, from potential relief for graduates burdened by HECS debts to the contentious funding of private schools, which highlights a significant disparity in government support compared to public schools.
    Join us as we unpack these complex topics, providing insights into Australia’s current economic strategies, the media, and educational policies.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘The King Is Dead’, The Herd.
    2. ‘Freedom!’, George Michael (Marc Martel cover).
    3. ‘Field Of Glass’, The Triffids.
    4. ‘La Femme d’Argent’, Air.
    5. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2745auspol,budget2024,hecsfalsefull    A tragedy in the east, and unpacking a week of global tensions and domestic dramahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-tragedy-in-the-east-and-unpacking-a-week-of-global-tensions-and-domestic-drama--59547199We also analyse the high-profile defamation case involving Bruce Lehrmann – he was found to be comprehensive liar, lost the case and was ultimately found to have sexually assaulted Brittany Higgins. The court’s findings and the implications of Lehrmann’s actions illuminate issues of media integrity and the complexities of public perception in high-stakes legal battles.
    On the international stage, we look at the escalating conflict between Israel and Gaza, examining the motives behind Israel’s controversial military actions and the broader geopolitical chessboard involving Iran, Hezbollah, and the international community’s stance on Palestinian statehood. We explore the volatile dynamics of Middle Eastern politics and what it means for the global balance of power.
    We also cover the recent byelection in the seat of Cook, analysing the political strategies at play and the implications for future elections and for the Liberal Party. We also question the Australian government’s fiscal priorities, juxtaposing a massive increase in defence spending of $50 billion against the backdrop of rising homelessness and mental health issues. There’s never enough money for the things that really matter.
    Join us for a comprehensive exploration of these critical issues, where we connect dots across continents and communities, offering insights into the effects of policy decisions, social justice, and international diplomacy. 

    Song listing:
    1. “The Numbers”, Radiohead. 
    2. “I Fought The Law”, (cover version) The Clash.
    3. “Dayvan Cowboy”, The Boards of Canada.
    4.  “Unknown Water”, Ella Fence.
    5. “Praise You”, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59547199Fri, 19 Apr 2024 21:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn a deeply impactful week, the latest episode of New Politics discusses the broad range of events that have not only shaken local communities but also stirred international relations. We begin with the tragic attack at Westfield shopping mall in...We also analyse the high-profile defamation case involving Bruce Lehrmann – he was found to be comprehensive liar, lost the case and was ultimately found to have sexually assaulted Brittany Higgins. The court’s findings and the implications of Lehrmann’s actions illuminate issues of media integrity and the complexities of public perception in high-stakes legal battles.
    On the international stage, we look at the escalating conflict between Israel and Gaza, examining the motives behind Israel’s controversial military actions and the broader geopolitical chessboard involving Iran, Hezbollah, and the international community’s stance on Palestinian statehood. We explore the volatile dynamics of Middle Eastern politics and what it means for the global balance of power.
    We also cover the recent byelection in the seat of Cook, analysing the political strategies at play and the implications for future elections and for the Liberal Party. We also question the Australian government’s fiscal priorities, juxtaposing a massive increase in defence spending of $50 billion against the backdrop of rising homelessness and mental health issues. There’s never enough money for the things that really matter.
    Join us for a comprehensive exploration of these critical issues, where we connect dots across continents and communities, offering insights into the effects of policy decisions, social justice, and international diplomacy. 

    Song listing:
    1. “The Numbers”, Radiohead. 
    2. “I Fought The Law”, (cover version) The Clash.
    3. “Dayvan Cowboy”, The Boards of Canada.
    4.  “Unknown Water”, Ella Fence.
    5. “Praise You”, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2823auspol,bondijunction,cookbyelection,defence,gazaattack,lehmannfalsefull    Lost in the supermarkets, housing crisis, the IPA and facts, a war against the Governor–Generalhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lost-in-the-supermarkets-housing-crisis-the-ipa-and-facts-a-war-against-the-governor-general--59428530We also shed light on Australia’s housing crisis, focusing on the alarming rate of unoccupied housing and the contentious debate over using superannuation for home purchases. Governments have a habit of exacerbating these kinds of issues: first home owner grants were politically popular but made the problem worse, and restrictive policies on local zoning block the supply of new dwellings. We explore the potential repercussions of these policies on the housing market and the broader economy.
    The Institute of Public Affairs is an insidious organisation that is the conduit between the Murdoch empire and the Liberal Party and it has inflicted much damage on the social fabric of Australian society—it’s now running a campaign against fact-checking organisations for what it claims is “left-wing bias” and we look at the broader implications for disinformation and political bias in media. The IPA is all for free speech, but only when that freedom is favourable to its political agenda: for everyone else; it’s sit down, shut up and do as you’re told. The true hallmark of modern conservative politics: just keep lying; the public will eventually believe it.
    And finally, we address the new culture war and political uproar surrounding the appointment of Sam Mostyn as the new Governor–General, examining the reactions from News Corporation and other conservative political figures.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59428530Fri, 12 Apr 2024 21:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this new episode of New Politics, we explore the pressing concerns impacting Australians today. Starting with the grocery and supermarkets sector, we analyse the interim report from the Food and Grocery Code Review which highlights the significant...We also shed light on Australia’s housing crisis, focusing on the alarming rate of unoccupied housing and the contentious debate over using superannuation for home purchases. Governments have a habit of exacerbating these kinds of issues: first home owner grants were politically popular but made the problem worse, and restrictive policies on local zoning block the supply of new dwellings. We explore the potential repercussions of these policies on the housing market and the broader economy.
    The Institute of Public Affairs is an insidious organisation that is the conduit between the Murdoch empire and the Liberal Party and it has inflicted much damage on the social fabric of Australian society—it’s now running a campaign against fact-checking organisations for what it claims is “left-wing bias” and we look at the broader implications for disinformation and political bias in media. The IPA is all for free speech, but only when that freedom is favourable to its political agenda: for everyone else; it’s sit down, shut up and do as you’re told. The true hallmark of modern conservative politics: just keep lying; the public will eventually believe it.
    And finally, we address the new culture war and political uproar surrounding the appointment of Sam Mostyn as the new Governor–General, examining the reactions from News Corporation and other conservative political figures.]]>    3006auspol,costofliving,housing,ipa,mostynfalsefull    A new crisis in Gaza, fair politics, immigration law and Liberal’s preselection failhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-new-crisis-in-gaza-fair-politics-immigration-law-and-liberal-s-preselection-fail--59301082
    We also touch on the complexities of proportional representation, spotlighted by the prolonged vote counting following Tasmania’s state election. The Hare-Clark electoral system, while confusing to some, promotes fairer outcomes and coalition governance—a principle we argue should be more widely adopted rather than abandoned.

    Our discussion shifts to Australia's domestic front, scrutinising the Labor government’s proposed immigration legislation. These changes, giving the immigration minister increased powers and imposing minimum mandatory prison sentences for non-compliance with deportation processes, have been controversial. They signal a troubling trend towards increasingly draconian asylum seeker laws, perpetuating a cycle of harsh policies regardless of the governing party.

    Finally, we critique the Liberal Party’s recent preselection decisions, which continue to sideline women in favour of men, ignoring calls for greater gender diversity in political representation. This episode is packed with insights, expert opinions, and a call for more humane policies and government accountability.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59301082Fri, 05 Apr 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we explore a series of pressing global and domestic issues that have unfolded recently. We start with a development in Gaza, where the killing of Zomi Frankcom, an Australian working for the food charity World Central...
    We also touch on the complexities of proportional representation, spotlighted by the prolonged vote counting following Tasmania’s state election. The Hare-Clark electoral system, while confusing to some, promotes fairer outcomes and coalition governance—a principle we argue should be more widely adopted rather than abandoned.

    Our discussion shifts to Australia's domestic front, scrutinising the Labor government’s proposed immigration legislation. These changes, giving the immigration minister increased powers and imposing minimum mandatory prison sentences for non-compliance with deportation processes, have been controversial. They signal a troubling trend towards increasingly draconian asylum seeker laws, perpetuating a cycle of harsh policies regardless of the governing party.

    Finally, we critique the Liberal Party’s recent preselection decisions, which continue to sideline women in favour of men, ignoring calls for greater gender diversity in political representation. This episode is packed with insights, expert opinions, and a call for more humane policies and government accountability.]]>    2656auspol,gaza,immigration,liberalpartymanproblemfalsefull    Religious discrimination, donations reforms, the Liberal man problem, Tasmania electionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/religious-discrimination-donations-reforms-the-liberal-man-problem-tasmania-election--59132619
    We then shift to the pressing issue of campaign and donations reform. With the Australian Greens and independent crossbenchers championing a new bill, we examine the longstanding resistance from major parties and the potential impact of proposed reforms, including truth-in-advertising laws, lowered donations disclosure thresholds, and limitations on contributions from socially harmful industries. Making these reforms should be difficult, but it always is.

    We address the Liberal Party’s internal turmoil, spotlighting the displacement of senior women in favour of male hardliners, a move that exacerbates the party’s ongoing “man problem” and hinders its progress toward gender equality in parliament. As the Liberal Party grapples with declining female representation, we analyse the broader implications for its electoral prospects and public perception.

    Finally, we venture into the unique political landscape of Tasmania, where the upcoming election introduces an unpredictable element to Australian politics. Amidst promises of chocolate fountains and AFL stadiums by the Liberal Party, we compare this with the opposition’s focus on cost of living relief, healthcare, and housing affordability. Labor should be a shoo-in for this election but it’s not: then again, Tasmanian politics are quite different to the mainland and the election result is anyone’s guess.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59132619Fri, 22 Mar 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we explore the controversial return of the Religious Discrimination Bill to federal parliament. Once thought to be a relic of the Scott Morrison era, the bill has resurfaced during Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s tenure, fulfilling...
    We then shift to the pressing issue of campaign and donations reform. With the Australian Greens and independent crossbenchers championing a new bill, we examine the longstanding resistance from major parties and the potential impact of proposed reforms, including truth-in-advertising laws, lowered donations disclosure thresholds, and limitations on contributions from socially harmful industries. Making these reforms should be difficult, but it always is.

    We address the Liberal Party’s internal turmoil, spotlighting the displacement of senior women in favour of male hardliners, a move that exacerbates the party’s ongoing “man problem” and hinders its progress toward gender equality in parliament. As the Liberal Party grapples with declining female representation, we analyse the broader implications for its electoral prospects and public perception.

    Finally, we venture into the unique political landscape of Tasmania, where the upcoming election introduces an unpredictable element to Australian politics. Amidst promises of chocolate fountains and AFL stadiums by the Liberal Party, we compare this with the opposition’s focus on cost of living relief, healthcare, and housing affordability. Labor should be a shoo-in for this election but it’s not: then again, Tasmanian politics are quite different to the mainland and the election result is anyone’s guess.]]>    2627auspol,religiousdiscrimination,taspolfalsefull    A new economic future, Australia needs independence, AUKUS disaster and the future of aged carehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-new-economic-future-australia-needs-independence-aukus-disaster-and-the-future-of-aged-care--59051939
    Dr. Mazzucato’s advocacy for a collaborative approach between business, labour, and government highlights a transformative vision for delivering public services, a perspective gaining traction globally and eyed keenly by the Australian government ahead of the upcoming budget. Meanwhile, Yanis Varoufakis, known for his stand against austerity measures during Greece’s financial crisis, continues to challenge the neoliberal orthodoxy, offering invaluable insights into leveraging economic policies for community enhancement amid global transitions.

    We also have a critical look at Australia’s foreign policy stance, especially concerning the escalating situation in Gaza. Varoufakis’ commentary on Australia’s need for an independent foreign affairs outlook and its response to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict invites a re-evaluation of our national and global roles and responsibilities.

    Moreover, the potential unraveling of the AUKUS deal, marked by the United States scaled-back submarine commitments, brings to light the complexities of international defence agreements and their implications for Australian security and diplomacy. Is it time to cancel AUKUS? We examine the broader geopolitical and internal political factors at play.

    Lastly, we address the pressing issue of aged care reform in Australia, following the Aged Care Taskforce report. The discussion revolves around the proposed changes, the financial sustainability of aged care, and the government’s reluctance to adopt recommended funding mechanisms (just don’t mention the word “tax”) highlighting the critical choices facing policymakers in ensuring quality care for the aging population.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59051939Fri, 15 Mar 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this thought-provoking episode, we look at the recent political and economic developments impacting Australia and the world, starting off with the influence of world-renowned economic thinkers Mariana Mazzucato and Yanis Varoufakis—in Australia at...
    Dr. Mazzucato’s advocacy for a collaborative approach between business, labour, and government highlights a transformative vision for delivering public services, a perspective gaining traction globally and eyed keenly by the Australian government ahead of the upcoming budget. Meanwhile, Yanis Varoufakis, known for his stand against austerity measures during Greece’s financial crisis, continues to challenge the neoliberal orthodoxy, offering invaluable insights into leveraging economic policies for community enhancement amid global transitions.

    We also have a critical look at Australia’s foreign policy stance, especially concerning the escalating situation in Gaza. Varoufakis’ commentary on Australia’s need for an independent foreign affairs outlook and its response to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict invites a re-evaluation of our national and global roles and responsibilities.

    Moreover, the potential unraveling of the AUKUS deal, marked by the United States scaled-back submarine commitments, brings to light the complexities of international defence agreements and their implications for Australian security and diplomacy. Is it time to cancel AUKUS? We examine the broader geopolitical and internal political factors at play.

    Lastly, we address the pressing issue of aged care reform in Australia, following the Aged Care Taskforce report. The discussion revolves around the proposed changes, the financial sustainability of aged care, and the government’s reluctance to adopt recommended funding mechanisms (just don’t mention the word “tax”) highlighting the critical choices facing policymakers in ensuring quality care for the aging population.]]>    3088auspol,gaza,mazzucato,vourifakisfalsefull    A Labor win and a Liberal loss, nuclear division, ASIO powerplay and will the ABC survive?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-labor-win-and-a-liberal-loss-nuclear-division-asio-powerplay-and-will-the-abc-survive--58967108
    In this compelling episode of New Politics, we delve into the aftermath of the Dunkley byelection, an event that not only highlighted the strategic playbooks of all political parties but also underscored the ever-evolving landscape of national issues and media influence. The Labor government's victory in Dunkley, despite a swing against them, showcases their ability to connect with voters on critical matters like cost-of-living and policy solutions amidst a cacophony of negative campaigning and scare tactics from the opposition.

    We dissect the Labor and Liberal campaigns, scrutinising the strategies that led to Labor's win and the Liberal Party's reliance on divisive issues. Special attention is given to Peter Dutton and the Liberal leadership's controversial stance on nuclear power, a topic that has become a predictable fallback during political strife, revealing deeper issues within the party and its media alliances.

    We also explore the intriguing revelations from ASIO's Mike Burgess regarding espionage within Australian politics. The allegations of a former MP recruited by a foreign government to spy on Australian intelligence opens a Pandora's box of national security, media sensationalism, and the quest for increased funding for intelligence operations.

    Lastly, we look at the recent changes at the ABC, examining the implications of Kim Williams' takeover from Ita Buttrose. The shift in leadership occurs amidst critiques of the ABC's news coverage and its perceived alignment with the Liberal Party, sparking debate about the future of public broadcasting in Australia.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Crying’, Strawpeople.
    2. ‘Pretty Vacant’, Sofia.
    3. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58967108Fri, 08 Mar 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsThe best analysis of all the latest events in federal politics, from one of Australia’s top ten podcasts on politics and news commentary. In this compelling episode of New Politics, we delve into the aftermath of the Dunkley byelection, an event that...
    In this compelling episode of New Politics, we delve into the aftermath of the Dunkley byelection, an event that not only highlighted the strategic playbooks of all political parties but also underscored the ever-evolving landscape of national issues and media influence. The Labor government's victory in Dunkley, despite a swing against them, showcases their ability to connect with voters on critical matters like cost-of-living and policy solutions amidst a cacophony of negative campaigning and scare tactics from the opposition.

    We dissect the Labor and Liberal campaigns, scrutinising the strategies that led to Labor's win and the Liberal Party's reliance on divisive issues. Special attention is given to Peter Dutton and the Liberal leadership's controversial stance on nuclear power, a topic that has become a predictable fallback during political strife, revealing deeper issues within the party and its media alliances.

    We also explore the intriguing revelations from ASIO's Mike Burgess regarding espionage within Australian politics. The allegations of a former MP recruited by a foreign government to spy on Australian intelligence opens a Pandora's box of national security, media sensationalism, and the quest for increased funding for intelligence operations.

    Lastly, we look at the recent changes at the ABC, examining the implications of Kim Williams' takeover from Ita Buttrose. The shift in leadership occurs amidst critiques of the ABC's news coverage and its perceived alignment with the Liberal Party, sparking debate about the future of public broadcasting in Australia.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Crying’, Strawpeople.
    2. ‘Pretty Vacant’, Sofia.
    3. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    3066falsefull    Reforming education, Dunkley, and reflections on the Morrison disasterhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/reforming-education-dunkley-and-reflections-on-the-morrison-disaster--58876704
    First up, we unpack the recently released Universities Accord final report by the Labor government, a comprehensive plan aimed at reshaping higher education over the next few decades. From increasing the number of university-educated Australians to addressing HECS fees and funding, the report outlines ambitious goals but leaves questions about teaching quality and industrial relations unanswered and how to avoid conservative forces destroying the reforms when they return to office at some point in the future.

    We also look at Scott Morrison's valedictory speech in parliament, marking the end of a disastrous era in Australian politics, a level of damage which will take years to correct and repair. With reflections on his tenure and its place within the broader Howard era, we consider the implications of his departure for Australian politics. Is he Australia’s worst prime minister? We’d rank him at number 31, much to the relief of supporters of Billy McMahon.

    Finally, we look at upcoming by-election in Dunkley. As the Coalition gains ground in some polls and Labor faces a crucial test in the by-election, we examine the potential ramifications for both parties and the future of governance in Australia. And should we say goodbye to by-elections?

    Join us as we dissect these key developments and explore what lies ahead in Australian politics.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58876704Fri, 01 Mar 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we explore the latest developments in Australian politics, from ambitious education reforms to the end of an era in disastrous Liberal Party leadership. First up, we unpack the recently released Universities Accord final report by...
    First up, we unpack the recently released Universities Accord final report by the Labor government, a comprehensive plan aimed at reshaping higher education over the next few decades. From increasing the number of university-educated Australians to addressing HECS fees and funding, the report outlines ambitious goals but leaves questions about teaching quality and industrial relations unanswered and how to avoid conservative forces destroying the reforms when they return to office at some point in the future.

    We also look at Scott Morrison's valedictory speech in parliament, marking the end of a disastrous era in Australian politics, a level of damage which will take years to correct and repair. With reflections on his tenure and its place within the broader Howard era, we consider the implications of his departure for Australian politics. Is he Australia’s worst prime minister? We’d rank him at number 31, much to the relief of supporters of Billy McMahon.

    Finally, we look at upcoming by-election in Dunkley. As the Coalition gains ground in some polls and Labor faces a crucial test in the by-election, we examine the potential ramifications for both parties and the future of governance in Australia. And should we say goodbye to by-elections?

    Join us as we dissect these key developments and explore what lies ahead in Australian politics.]]>    2865auspolfalsefull    The mindless narrative on asylum seekers, the car and ute tax cosplay and the one-sided media on Gazahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-mindless-narrative-on-asylum-seekers-the-car-and-ute-tax-cosplay-and-the-one-sided-media-on-gaza--58792212
    But the political theatrics don't end at the water's edge. We also explore the Coalition's vehement opposition to the federal government's proposed national vehicle efficiency standard. Labeling it a "car and ute tax" and forecasting a dire impact on tradies, the Coalition's narrative seems more like a replay of the 2019 election campaign strategy rather than a genuine concern for the working class or the environment. Essentially, it’s a bit of cosplay for the purposes of the Dunkley byelection coming up soon, but it’s not going to work.

    We also dissect the media's coverage of the war in Gaza, critiquing the one-sided narrative that has dominated Australian news outlets. With a staggering disparity in casualties between Israeli civilians and Palestinians, we discuss the role of media in shaping public opinion and the consequences of unbalanced reporting on political decisions and the ongoing cycle of violence.

    Listen in as we navigate through these complex issues, shedding light on the politics of fear, the environmental stakes of policy debates, and the power of media in influencing the discourse on international conflict.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58792212Fri, 23 Feb 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we go into the heart of Australia's current political storm surrounding asylum seekers and border protection. Join us as we unpack the maniacal rhetoric of Peter Dutton and the Liberal Party, who have spared no effort in amplifying...
    But the political theatrics don't end at the water's edge. We also explore the Coalition's vehement opposition to the federal government's proposed national vehicle efficiency standard. Labeling it a "car and ute tax" and forecasting a dire impact on tradies, the Coalition's narrative seems more like a replay of the 2019 election campaign strategy rather than a genuine concern for the working class or the environment. Essentially, it’s a bit of cosplay for the purposes of the Dunkley byelection coming up soon, but it’s not going to work.

    We also dissect the media's coverage of the war in Gaza, critiquing the one-sided narrative that has dominated Australian news outlets. With a staggering disparity in casualties between Israeli civilians and Palestinians, we discuss the role of media in shaping public opinion and the consequences of unbalanced reporting on political decisions and the ongoing cycle of violence.

    Listen in as we navigate through these complex issues, shedding light on the politics of fear, the environmental stakes of policy debates, and the power of media in influencing the discourse on international conflict.]]>    1999auspol,gaza,utetaxfalsefull    A week in Canberra: scandals, a right to disconnect, Assange and the last Liberal in the villagehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-week-in-canberra-scandals-a-right-to-disconnect-assange-and-the-last-liberal-in-the-village--58701749Firstly, we examine the incident involving Barnaby Joyce’s public intoxication in Canberra, which reignites discussions on the standards of behaviour expected from public figures. Joyce’s actions are not just a personal failing but a reflection of broader issues within the political landscape, including double standards, substance misuse within Parliament, and the leniency often afforded to certain politicians.
    We also discuss Senator Linda Reynolds’ announcement of her departure from politics at the next election, raising questions about the commitment and effectiveness of politicians who are on their way out but still hold office.
    The then explore the passage of the “right to disconnect” legislation, designed to protect employees from work-related intrusions into their personal time. Despite its benefits, the opposition, led by Peter Dutton, signals a contentious political climate, with debates skewed by media portrayal and party politics. Adding to the controversy, allegations against Peter Dutton during his tenure as Home Affairs Minister are scrutinised. Accusations of misconduct involving contracts and audits raise serious concerns about accountability and oversight within government operations.
    A surprising development in Parliament saw the success of a motion by independent MP Andrew Wilkie, advocating for the end of the prosecution of Julian Assange—a decision met with resistance from the Coalition, highlighting the divisive nature of political support and opposition in Australia.
    Lastly, the episode covers the unexpected call for a snap election in Tasmania by Premier Jeremy Rockliff, prompted by governmental instability and pressing local issues. This move could signify a pivotal moment for the Liberal Party and for Tasmanian politics, addressing or exacerbating existing challenges in health, education, and housing.
    Join us as we unpack these developments, offering insights into the ramifications for Australian politics and the ongoing debates that shape the nation’s future. #AUSPOL #assange

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    2. ‘Just Give 'Em Whiskey’, Colourbox.
    3. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58701749Fri, 16 Feb 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we look at the big week in Canberra, highlighting the continuing issues that have dominated the headlines and the halls of Parliament. Firstly, we examine the incident involving Barnaby Joyce’s public intoxication in...Firstly, we examine the incident involving Barnaby Joyce’s public intoxication in Canberra, which reignites discussions on the standards of behaviour expected from public figures. Joyce’s actions are not just a personal failing but a reflection of broader issues within the political landscape, including double standards, substance misuse within Parliament, and the leniency often afforded to certain politicians.
    We also discuss Senator Linda Reynolds’ announcement of her departure from politics at the next election, raising questions about the commitment and effectiveness of politicians who are on their way out but still hold office.
    The then explore the passage of the “right to disconnect” legislation, designed to protect employees from work-related intrusions into their personal time. Despite its benefits, the opposition, led by Peter Dutton, signals a contentious political climate, with debates skewed by media portrayal and party politics. Adding to the controversy, allegations against Peter Dutton during his tenure as Home Affairs Minister are scrutinised. Accusations of misconduct involving contracts and audits raise serious concerns about accountability and oversight within government operations.
    A surprising development in Parliament saw the success of a motion by independent MP Andrew Wilkie, advocating for the end of the prosecution of Julian Assange—a decision met with resistance from the Coalition, highlighting the divisive nature of political support and opposition in Australia.
    Lastly, the episode covers the unexpected call for a snap election in Tasmania by Premier Jeremy Rockliff, prompted by governmental instability and pressing local issues. This move could signify a pivotal moment for the Liberal Party and for Tasmanian politics, addressing or exacerbating existing challenges in health, education, and housing.
    Join us as we unpack these developments, offering insights into the ramifications for Australian politics and the ongoing debates that shape the nation’s future. #AUSPOL #assange

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    2. ‘Just Give 'Em Whiskey’, Colourbox.
    3. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    3024assange,auspol,barnaby,corruption,dutton,palladin,taspolfalsefull    Navigating the week in Australian politics: Thug Dutton and opinion pollshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/navigating-the-week-in-australian-politics-thug-dutton-and-opinion-polls--58616771Amidst this, the Labor government witnesses a confluence of economic developments. With the Reserve Bank’s decision to hold interest rates steady and inflation rates on a downward trajectory from a peak of 7.8% in 2022 to 4.1%, we evaluate the broader implications for Australia’s economic outlook in 2024.
    We also focus on the Coalition’s current activities, highlighting their participation in the Rally Against Reckless Renewables and their stance on clean energy, raising questions about their policy direction while in opposition.
    We pay tribute to Dr. Lowitja O’Donoghue, commemorating her monumental contributions to Australian society and politics as a revered leader and advocate for the indigenous community and beyond.
    The recent suspension of funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency by Australia, a decision mirroring accusations from the Israeli government without preceding evidence or investigation is also explored—a move critiqued for its lack of substantiation and potential international ramifications.
    Finally, the episode addresses the misinterpretation of public sentiment and media narratives around the Labor government’s performance and public support, challenging the perpetuated notion of a government in distress with insights from recent opinion polls.
    Join us as we navigate through the currents of Australian politics, offering analysis, reflections, and a look ahead at what these developments mean for the nation’s future. #AUSPOL #Gaza]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58616771Fri, 09 Feb 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we look at all the big issues in federal politics as Parliament reconvenes for 2024. The spotlight shines on the contentious Stage 3 tax cuts, a topic that has transcended beyond its decision point and into a prolonged...Amidst this, the Labor government witnesses a confluence of economic developments. With the Reserve Bank’s decision to hold interest rates steady and inflation rates on a downward trajectory from a peak of 7.8% in 2022 to 4.1%, we evaluate the broader implications for Australia’s economic outlook in 2024.
    We also focus on the Coalition’s current activities, highlighting their participation in the Rally Against Reckless Renewables and their stance on clean energy, raising questions about their policy direction while in opposition.
    We pay tribute to Dr. Lowitja O’Donoghue, commemorating her monumental contributions to Australian society and politics as a revered leader and advocate for the indigenous community and beyond.
    The recent suspension of funding to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency by Australia, a decision mirroring accusations from the Israeli government without preceding evidence or investigation is also explored—a move critiqued for its lack of substantiation and potential international ramifications.
    Finally, the episode addresses the misinterpretation of public sentiment and media narratives around the Labor government’s performance and public support, challenging the perpetuated notion of a government in distress with insights from recent opinion polls.
    Join us as we navigate through the currents of Australian politics, offering analysis, reflections, and a look ahead at what these developments mean for the nation’s future. #AUSPOL #Gaza]]>    2299auspol,gazafalsefull    Labor finds some Stage 3 courage and the end of Scott Morrisonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/labor-finds-some-stage-3-courage-and-the-end-of-scott-morrison--58538664We also address the announcement from former Prime Minister Scott Morrison regarding his departure from politics. Morrison’s tenure highlights a tumultuous period in Australian political history, marked by controversy, accusations of incompetence, and allegations of corruption. This episode examines Morrison's political journey, the circumstances surrounding his rise to the office of Prime Minister, and the legacy of his leadership. We will discuss the broader implications of his departure for the political landscape in Australia and what it signifies for the future of governance and public service integrity in the country.
    Join us as we explore these major developments in Australian politics, providing a comprehensive analysis of their immediate impact and long-term consequences for the nation's political discourse and policy direction.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58538664Fri, 02 Feb 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn our first episode for 2024, we delve into the recent adjustments made by the Labor government to the Stage 3 tax cuts, initially legislated by the Coalition government in 2019. Originally criticised for disproportionately benefiting high-income...We also address the announcement from former Prime Minister Scott Morrison regarding his departure from politics. Morrison’s tenure highlights a tumultuous period in Australian political history, marked by controversy, accusations of incompetence, and allegations of corruption. This episode examines Morrison's political journey, the circumstances surrounding his rise to the office of Prime Minister, and the legacy of his leadership. We will discuss the broader implications of his departure for the political landscape in Australia and what it signifies for the future of governance and public service integrity in the country.
    Join us as we explore these major developments in Australian politics, providing a comprehensive analysis of their immediate impact and long-term consequences for the nation's political discourse and policy direction.]]>    2587auspol,scomo,stage3falsefull    The invasion of Australia Dayhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-invasion-of-australia-day--58444703
    January 26 also seems to ignite the annual Culture War in Australia, albeit, a little bit early this year with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton's decision to boycott Woolworths for not stocking Australia Day items.

    The conservative media amplify these conflicts, creating 'imaginary enemies' like Australian cricketer Pat Cummins, who expressed discomfort with Australia Day – and of course, was targeted by Liberal Party identities and mainstream media for questioning Australia Day.

    Despite which government in power, these issues are magnified similarly each year by these conservative players, which is all about leveraging cultural conflicts for political gain, distracting from substantive policy issues like the economy, housing, health, and education.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58444703Fri, 26 Jan 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn our final episode in the summer series, we review Australia Day, also known as Invasion Day, Survival Day and Day of Mourning, First Landing Day, Foundation Day, Anniversary Day, ANA Day… but whatever it’s called, January 26 is a problematic day,...
    January 26 also seems to ignite the annual Culture War in Australia, albeit, a little bit early this year with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton's decision to boycott Woolworths for not stocking Australia Day items.

    The conservative media amplify these conflicts, creating 'imaginary enemies' like Australian cricketer Pat Cummins, who expressed discomfort with Australia Day – and of course, was targeted by Liberal Party identities and mainstream media for questioning Australia Day.

    Despite which government in power, these issues are magnified similarly each year by these conservative players, which is all about leveraging cultural conflicts for political gain, distracting from substantive policy issues like the economy, housing, health, and education.]]>    1224auspol,australiaday,invasiondayfalsefull    Never Free Until Palestine Is Freehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/never-free-until-palestine-is-free--58359065Despite global opinions, only the US and Israel can decide to end these acts of war crimes and ethnic cleansing – as early as tomorrow, if they wished. However, numerous agendas are at play here.
    This international event encompasses everything – the international arms trade, geopolitics, history, right-wing politics, corruption in Israel from a corrupt Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, Hamas’s role in Palestine, the influence of the mainstream media, the attacks on journalists, the Israel and Zionist lobby groups in Australia, local politics – and the death of over 24,000 Palestinian civilians and 1,200 Israeli civilians. But why is this number so disproportionate? No one ever seems to be so concerned about answering this question, but this is not new: this war did not commence on October 7, 2023; it has been ongoing since at least 1946.
    This war needs to end immediately. The Australian government, like most of the Western world, lacks courage and decency in even voting on a ceasefire. Australia cowardly decided to abstain, and this conflict will likely continue throughout 2024. The weekly protests by many concerned individuals worldwide will persist because they have had enough of governments sitting on the fence and allowing the massacre of Palestinians in Gaza at the hands of the Israel Defense Forces.
    Why so many protests? Because, as the former South African President Nelson Mandela said: “Our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians”.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58359065Fri, 19 Jan 2024 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsOur summer series continues until our regular schedule commences. This week, Eddy Jokovich and David Lewis review the war against Palestine and the events in Gaza, which began in October and continued throughout November, December, and the new year....Despite global opinions, only the US and Israel can decide to end these acts of war crimes and ethnic cleansing – as early as tomorrow, if they wished. However, numerous agendas are at play here.
    This international event encompasses everything – the international arms trade, geopolitics, history, right-wing politics, corruption in Israel from a corrupt Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, Hamas’s role in Palestine, the influence of the mainstream media, the attacks on journalists, the Israel and Zionist lobby groups in Australia, local politics – and the death of over 24,000 Palestinian civilians and 1,200 Israeli civilians. But why is this number so disproportionate? No one ever seems to be so concerned about answering this question, but this is not new: this war did not commence on October 7, 2023; it has been ongoing since at least 1946.
    This war needs to end immediately. The Australian government, like most of the Western world, lacks courage and decency in even voting on a ceasefire. Australia cowardly decided to abstain, and this conflict will likely continue throughout 2024. The weekly protests by many concerned individuals worldwide will persist because they have had enough of governments sitting on the fence and allowing the massacre of Palestinians in Gaza at the hands of the Israel Defense Forces.
    Why so many protests? Because, as the former South African President Nelson Mandela said: “Our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestinians”.]]>    4412auspol,gazafalsefull    2023/24 Holiday Series: Resolving the housing crisis with Cathy Callaghanhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2023-24-holiday-series-resolving-the-housing-crisis-with-cathy-callaghan--58261417One of our most listened-to episodes from last year was the discussion with Cathy Callaghan from Shelter NSW, who outlined the issues that need to be resolved and the kinds of reforms that need to be implemented. But it’s going to take a while.
    This interview was recorded in June 2023, but the issues are still relevant today. Let’s see if these issues can be eased during 2024.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58261417Fri, 12 Jan 2024 20:55:02 +0000New PoliticsThe one big issue that persisted throughout 2023 is housing affordability across the board: purchasing, renting, social housing, homelessness, and it seems that the right to shelter is one part of Australian society that has been left behind. Over the...One of our most listened-to episodes from last year was the discussion with Cathy Callaghan from Shelter NSW, who outlined the issues that need to be resolved and the kinds of reforms that need to be implemented. But it’s going to take a while.
    This interview was recorded in June 2023, but the issues are still relevant today. Let’s see if these issues can be eased during 2024.]]>    1301auspol,housingaffordabilityfalsefull    2023/24 Holiday Series: Sarah Hanson-Young and media reformhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/2023-24-holiday-series-sarah-hanson-young-and-media-reform--58196961One of our most listened episodes from last year was the discussion with Australian Greens Senator, Sarah Hanson-Young, who outlined the issues that need to be resolved and the kinds of reforms needed to make the media work in the interests of the public, not in the interests of media tycoons, who always seem to have ulterior motivations that favour conservative entities.
    This interview was recorded in June 2023, but the issues are still relevant today. Let’s see if these issues will be investigated by the federal government during 2024.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58196961Fri, 05 Jan 2024 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsSome of the leftover issues from 2023 – in fact, these are leftover issues from the past 40 years – are the behaviour of the mainstream media, a lack of diversity in ownership and political opinion, and declining standards in political reporting. One...One of our most listened episodes from last year was the discussion with Australian Greens Senator, Sarah Hanson-Young, who outlined the issues that need to be resolved and the kinds of reforms needed to make the media work in the interests of the public, not in the interests of media tycoons, who always seem to have ulterior motivations that favour conservative entities.
    This interview was recorded in June 2023, but the issues are still relevant today. Let’s see if these issues will be investigated by the federal government during 2024.]]>    1025auspol,murdochroyalcommissionfalsefull    The year in review: Albanese v. Dutton. Who wins out?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-year-in-review-albanese-v-dutton-who-wins-out--58071505But Albanese’s popularity waned, almost in synch with the falling support for the Voice to Parliament and by the end of the year, he was more unpopular than Peter Dutton. How did it get to this stage?
    We also explore the contrasting political journey of Dutton, his initial struggles at the beginning of the year, including the unexpected loss in the Aston byelection and his attempts to gain momentum on national issues. However, his tactical shift in opposing the Voice to Parliament boosted his political fortunes, at the expense of Indigenous people, but it’s likely to be a short-term fillip and unlikely to sustain him into the future. However, Dutton keeps being written off, but he is still there: is because of his abilities, or because there are no other challengers for his position within the Liberal Party?
    And, the opinion polls for the year. We discuss how Labor’s current position in the polls, mirroring their election night standing in May 2022, bodes well for them despite the unpredictability tied to their low primary vote and provide a nuanced view of the electoral landscape and what it could mean for future elections. Modern politics does not favour the two big political players as well as it has in the past – Labor could increase its primary vote at the next election, yet lose office. Conversely, its primary vote could drop further, yet it could pick up seats, such is the unpredictable nature of a low primary vote.
    Finally, we look ahead to 2024: we forecast the political climate, focusing on key issues like the Stage 3 tax cuts and the economy’s role in the lead-up to the next election, and we provide a deep outline of the intricate dynamics of Australian national politics and what to expect in the year ahead.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58071505Fri, 22 Dec 2023 20:55:03 +0000New PoliticsJoin us in this captivating episode of New Politics as we look at the fascinating world of Australian politics, highlighting the key events and figures that shaped the year 2023. In part 2 of our series, our analysis begins with a comprehensive review...But Albanese’s popularity waned, almost in synch with the falling support for the Voice to Parliament and by the end of the year, he was more unpopular than Peter Dutton. How did it get to this stage?
    We also explore the contrasting political journey of Dutton, his initial struggles at the beginning of the year, including the unexpected loss in the Aston byelection and his attempts to gain momentum on national issues. However, his tactical shift in opposing the Voice to Parliament boosted his political fortunes, at the expense of Indigenous people, but it’s likely to be a short-term fillip and unlikely to sustain him into the future. However, Dutton keeps being written off, but he is still there: is because of his abilities, or because there are no other challengers for his position within the Liberal Party?
    And, the opinion polls for the year. We discuss how Labor’s current position in the polls, mirroring their election night standing in May 2022, bodes well for them despite the unpredictability tied to their low primary vote and provide a nuanced view of the electoral landscape and what it could mean for future elections. Modern politics does not favour the two big political players as well as it has in the past – Labor could increase its primary vote at the next election, yet lose office. Conversely, its primary vote could drop further, yet it could pick up seats, such is the unpredictable nature of a low primary vote.
    Finally, we look ahead to 2024: we forecast the political climate, focusing on key issues like the Stage 3 tax cuts and the economy’s role in the lead-up to the next election, and we provide a deep outline of the intricate dynamics of Australian national politics and what to expect in the year ahead.]]>    2206albanese,auspol,duttonfalsefull    The year in review: the big issues of 2023https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-year-in-review-the-big-issues-of-2023--58015770
    Voice to Parliament: We start with an in-depth analysis of the Voice to Parliament initiative, a major theme throughout the year. Despite early momentum, the prolonged campaign witnessed dwindling support, leading to an unfortunate failure in the referendum.
    Housing challenges: The multifaceted housing crisis: from affordability issues in urban and regional areas to debates over social housing and the Housing Australian Future Fund, we explore the evolving landscape of Australian housing.
    Sino-Australian relations: A significant turnaround in relations with China marks another key discussion point. We examine the easing of sanctions and tariffs, the political nuances of this relationship, and the broader implications for Australian foreign policy.
    Robodebt and anti-corruption: The establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Commission and the Robodebt Royal Commission brought some closure to lingering issues of mismanagement. We review these developments and their impact on governance.
    Defamation cases and the role of the mainstream media: High-profile defamation cases and the role of mainstream media in shaping public opinion receive a critical look. We look at the ramifications of these cases and the ongoing debate over media behaviour, influence and ownership.
    Gaza conflict: We also cover the tragic events in Gaza, examining Australia's diplomatic stance and the international calls for peace, and how there has been a shift in international support for Israel.
    There also the issues that didn’t feature highly, but they should have—the current state of COVID-19 in Australia, including new variants and public health responses; environmental issues, particularly the lack of significant action on climate change, despite its growing urgency and public concern; domestic violence, gender pay equity, and workplace harassment, require continued attention and action in these critical areas.
    Song listing:
    1. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    2. ‘Hungry Face’, Mogwai.
    3. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58015770Fri, 15 Dec 2023 20:55:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this special year-end episode, we look at the significant political events that shaped politics in 2023. From the highs and lows of governance to the pressing issues that grabbed headlines, join us as we unravel the complexities of Australian...
    Voice to Parliament: We start with an in-depth analysis of the Voice to Parliament initiative, a major theme throughout the year. Despite early momentum, the prolonged campaign witnessed dwindling support, leading to an unfortunate failure in the referendum.
    Housing challenges: The multifaceted housing crisis: from affordability issues in urban and regional areas to debates over social housing and the Housing Australian Future Fund, we explore the evolving landscape of Australian housing.
    Sino-Australian relations: A significant turnaround in relations with China marks another key discussion point. We examine the easing of sanctions and tariffs, the political nuances of this relationship, and the broader implications for Australian foreign policy.
    Robodebt and anti-corruption: The establishment of the National Anti-Corruption Commission and the Robodebt Royal Commission brought some closure to lingering issues of mismanagement. We review these developments and their impact on governance.
    Defamation cases and the role of the mainstream media: High-profile defamation cases and the role of mainstream media in shaping public opinion receive a critical look. We look at the ramifications of these cases and the ongoing debate over media behaviour, influence and ownership.
    Gaza conflict: We also cover the tragic events in Gaza, examining Australia's diplomatic stance and the international calls for peace, and how there has been a shift in international support for Israel.
    There also the issues that didn’t feature highly, but they should have—the current state of COVID-19 in Australia, including new variants and public health responses; environmental issues, particularly the lack of significant action on climate change, despite its growing urgency and public concern; domestic violence, gender pay equity, and workplace harassment, require continued attention and action in these critical areas.
    Song listing:
    1. ‘Stranger In Moscow’, Tame Impala.
    2. ‘Hungry Face’, Mogwai.
    3. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2741auspol,gaza,yearinreviewfalsefull    The 2023 carnival is over: end of parliament, Labor messaging, Gaza protests, Lehrmann defamationhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-2023-carnival-is-over-end-of-parliament-labor-messaging-gaza-protests-lehrmann-defamation--57950917We navigate through the challenges of communicating political messages, dissecting the common myths surrounding the Labor government's media strategy. Despite similar narratives from different ideological perspectives, the mainstream media's role in shaping public perception remains a significant factor, posing challenges for effective communication by the government.
    Amidst this political landscape, we explore the largely unreported positive economic indicators for the government. With interest rates on hold, lower-than-expected inflation, low unemployment, and a budget surplus, the economic picture contradicts media narratives. However, wage increases falling below inflation rates highlight ongoing challenges, illustrating the complex relationship between economic reality and public perception.
    Turning our attention to international affairs, the optimism for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza is shattered by recent actions from the Israel Defense Forces. The humanitarian crisis intensifies, prompting calls from Young Labor and numerous branches for decisive international action against Israel's actions in Gaza and the West Bank. Is protest actually allowed? Removing a pro-Palestine protestor at Albanese’s speech suggest not.
    The ongoing defamation trial involving Bruce Lehrmann sheds light on the inner workings of political advisors and the costly settlements paid by media outlets. The trial offers a glimpse into the inexperience of certain political figures, raising questions about the competence of the Coalition government.
    As parliament concludes for the year, we reflect on the flurry of legislative activity, including laws related to preventative immigration detention, labor hire firms, wage theft, and other industrial relations changes. The release of the NDIS report and condolences to the late Peta Murphy add emotional weight to the final parliamentary week, underscoring the multifaceted nature of federal politics as we bid farewell to the parliamentary year.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57950917Fri, 08 Dec 2023 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsAs the curtain falls on another year in federal politics, our latest podcast episode delves into the final dramas that marked the closing sessions of Parliament. At the forefront is the contentious issue of immigration detention, sparked by a High...We navigate through the challenges of communicating political messages, dissecting the common myths surrounding the Labor government's media strategy. Despite similar narratives from different ideological perspectives, the mainstream media's role in shaping public perception remains a significant factor, posing challenges for effective communication by the government.
    Amidst this political landscape, we explore the largely unreported positive economic indicators for the government. With interest rates on hold, lower-than-expected inflation, low unemployment, and a budget surplus, the economic picture contradicts media narratives. However, wage increases falling below inflation rates highlight ongoing challenges, illustrating the complex relationship between economic reality and public perception.
    Turning our attention to international affairs, the optimism for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza is shattered by recent actions from the Israel Defense Forces. The humanitarian crisis intensifies, prompting calls from Young Labor and numerous branches for decisive international action against Israel's actions in Gaza and the West Bank. Is protest actually allowed? Removing a pro-Palestine protestor at Albanese’s speech suggest not.
    The ongoing defamation trial involving Bruce Lehrmann sheds light on the inner workings of political advisors and the costly settlements paid by media outlets. The trial offers a glimpse into the inexperience of certain political figures, raising questions about the competence of the Coalition government.
    As parliament concludes for the year, we reflect on the flurry of legislative activity, including laws related to preventative immigration detention, labor hire firms, wage theft, and other industrial relations changes. The release of the NDIS report and condolences to the late Peta Murphy add emotional weight to the final parliamentary week, underscoring the multifaceted nature of federal politics as we bid farewell to the parliamentary year.]]>    3105auspol,gaza,lehrmannfalsefull    Israel’s cash for comment and Gaza ceasefire, the Lehrmann trainwreck, and the week in politicshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/israel-s-cash-for-comment-and-gaza-ceasefire-the-lehrmann-trainwreck-and-the-week-in-politics--57873698The ABC’s warnings for any of their journalists who signed an open letter condemning war crimes in Israel is also a great concern, and there are broader implications for reporting standards. Against the backdrop of the Gaza conflict, we explore the challenges of maintaining unbiased reporting and the role of media in democracies.
    We also provide an update on the Gaza cease-fire, Australia's abstention from voting, and the Secretary–General of the United Nations’ perspective on the matter. The disproportionate civilian casualties and the growing international outcry underscore the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis.
    There have been many twists and turns in the Bruce Lehrmann vs. Network Ten defamation case, and we examine the civil trial’s contrast with the previously aborted criminal trial, and question the competence of the Australian Federal Police in handling high-profile cases.
    We also shine a spotlight on the dismissal of Home Affairs Secretary Michael Pezzullo for misconduct but the appointment of Stephanie Foster, despite her controversial past, sparks discussions on transparency and adherence to announced selection processes.
    How unpopular is the Prime Minister? And does it really matter? The media is claiming there are “signs of decay” within the Albanese government but how can this be possible after just 18 months? It’s a fallacy: it’s just the ruse that the conservative media usually puts out against Labor governments.
    Finally, we explore a landmark deal between the Labor government and the Australian Greens to amend the Murray Darling Basin plan. This collaboration aims to enhance sustainability and equity, marking a positive stride in environmental protection and political cooperation.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57873698Fri, 01 Dec 2023 20:55:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this week's episode, of New Politics, we look a the bombshell revelation that over 70 journalists and editors from mainstream media, particularly News Corporation and Nine Media, had trips to Israel sponsored by the Israeli government over the past...The ABC’s warnings for any of their journalists who signed an open letter condemning war crimes in Israel is also a great concern, and there are broader implications for reporting standards. Against the backdrop of the Gaza conflict, we explore the challenges of maintaining unbiased reporting and the role of media in democracies.
    We also provide an update on the Gaza cease-fire, Australia's abstention from voting, and the Secretary–General of the United Nations’ perspective on the matter. The disproportionate civilian casualties and the growing international outcry underscore the urgency of addressing the humanitarian crisis.
    There have been many twists and turns in the Bruce Lehrmann vs. Network Ten defamation case, and we examine the civil trial’s contrast with the previously aborted criminal trial, and question the competence of the Australian Federal Police in handling high-profile cases.
    We also shine a spotlight on the dismissal of Home Affairs Secretary Michael Pezzullo for misconduct but the appointment of Stephanie Foster, despite her controversial past, sparks discussions on transparency and adherence to announced selection processes.
    How unpopular is the Prime Minister? And does it really matter? The media is claiming there are “signs of decay” within the Albanese government but how can this be possible after just 18 months? It’s a fallacy: it’s just the ruse that the conservative media usually puts out against Labor governments.
    Finally, we explore a landmark deal between the Labor government and the Australian Greens to amend the Murray Darling Basin plan. This collaboration aims to enhance sustainability and equity, marking a positive stride in environmental protection and political cooperation.]]>    3688auspol,gaza,mediareformfalsefull    The ongoing fear of China, Stage 3 tax cuts (again) and the return of the Idiot King!https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ongoing-fear-of-china-stage-3-tax-cuts-again-and-the-return-of-the-idiot-king--57781192HMAS Toowoomba in the East China Sea and its repercussions on Australian politics. While the details of the incident remain unclear, the aftermath has fueled anti-China rhetoric within the media, providing the Liberal Party with another opportunity to emphasise national security concerns. Has the Australia–China relationship been damaged again, after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong have dedicated the past 18 months to repairing relations and lifting trade sanctions? We explore the delicate balance between diplomatic efforts and the persistent political tug-of-war between the Labor and Liberal parties regarding China.
    Turning to domestic issues, we analyse the resurfacing debate over Stage 3 tax cuts. The familiar arguments surrounding inflation, government budget constraints, and income inequality come to the forefront. Is it a matter of affordability or political strategies from different sides of politics? We discuss the potential economic and political ramifications of implementing these tax cuts and why the Labor government is likely to implement them in full.
    We also examine the latest opinion polls, revealing the Liberal–National Coalition's lead in the two-party preferred voting, which now seems to be a trend. We navigate through the complexities of polling data, emphasising that the only poll that truly matters is the one on election day – but still, it’s a report card on how the government is travelling. We explore how populist outrage, spearheaded by figures like Peter Dutton, is shaping political discourse on issues ranging from national security to China.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Pretty Vacant’, (cover version) Sofia Allard.
    2. ‘The Honeymoon Is Over’, The Cruel Sea.
    3. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57781192Fri, 24 Nov 2023 20:55:02 +0000New PoliticsWelcome to New Politics! In this episode, we explore the recent incident involving the HMAS Toowoomba in the East China Sea and its repercussions on Australian politics. While the details of the incident remain unclear, the aftermath has fueled...HMAS Toowoomba in the East China Sea and its repercussions on Australian politics. While the details of the incident remain unclear, the aftermath has fueled anti-China rhetoric within the media, providing the Liberal Party with another opportunity to emphasise national security concerns. Has the Australia–China relationship been damaged again, after Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong have dedicated the past 18 months to repairing relations and lifting trade sanctions? We explore the delicate balance between diplomatic efforts and the persistent political tug-of-war between the Labor and Liberal parties regarding China.
    Turning to domestic issues, we analyse the resurfacing debate over Stage 3 tax cuts. The familiar arguments surrounding inflation, government budget constraints, and income inequality come to the forefront. Is it a matter of affordability or political strategies from different sides of politics? We discuss the potential economic and political ramifications of implementing these tax cuts and why the Labor government is likely to implement them in full.
    We also examine the latest opinion polls, revealing the Liberal–National Coalition's lead in the two-party preferred voting, which now seems to be a trend. We navigate through the complexities of polling data, emphasising that the only poll that truly matters is the one on election day – but still, it’s a report card on how the government is travelling. We explore how populist outrage, spearheaded by figures like Peter Dutton, is shaping political discourse on issues ranging from national security to China.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Pretty Vacant’, (cover version) Sofia Allard.
    2. ‘The Honeymoon Is Over’, The Cruel Sea.
    3. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2535auspol,china,stage3taxcutsfalsefull    War in Gaza, indefinite detention ends, misinformation laws watered down, McBride case and a Liberal defectionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/war-in-gaza-indefinite-detention-ends-misinformation-laws-watered-down-mcbride-case-and-a-liberal-defection--57674217The intricacies of the proposed misinformation and truth in political advertising laws: we explore the hurdles faced by the Labor government in balancing public demand with the opposition’s critique. With a staggering 87% of the electorate supporting such laws, we question the government’s delay in their implementation and the underlying political dynamics at play.
    We then look at the trial of David McBride, a whistleblower shedding light on war crimes committed by Australian troops in Afghanistan. We analyse the government’s stance on whistleblower reform, contrasting actions against McBride, Bernard Collaery, and Julian Assange, and look into the complexities of legal actions and the anticipated reforms in whistleblower legislation.
    There’s more trouble in the Liberal Party, with the defection of Russell Broadbent to now sit as an independent MP, breaking the record for the number of MPs on the crossbench. We look implications of this departure on Australian politics, the future of the Liberal Party and the potential impact on the upcoming elections.
    We end this episode with the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the international pressure on Israel to cease military actions and analyse the Australian government’s stance on the issue and the recent confrontation between Peter Dutton and Anthony Albanese in Parliament. We then examine the challenges of addressing this complex geopolitical issue without succumbing to social division, and the National Press Club address by Dr. Francesca Albanese, who gave the media a good lesson in media ethics.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Prayer In C’, Lilly Wood and The Prick (Robin Schulz remix).
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57674217Fri, 17 Nov 2023 20:55:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we unpack the recent High Court ruling that ended indefinite detention, challenges Australia’s immigration policies and the subsequent political storm it has ignited. The decision to release 81 unlawfully detained asylum seekers...The intricacies of the proposed misinformation and truth in political advertising laws: we explore the hurdles faced by the Labor government in balancing public demand with the opposition’s critique. With a staggering 87% of the electorate supporting such laws, we question the government’s delay in their implementation and the underlying political dynamics at play.
    We then look at the trial of David McBride, a whistleblower shedding light on war crimes committed by Australian troops in Afghanistan. We analyse the government’s stance on whistleblower reform, contrasting actions against McBride, Bernard Collaery, and Julian Assange, and look into the complexities of legal actions and the anticipated reforms in whistleblower legislation.
    There’s more trouble in the Liberal Party, with the defection of Russell Broadbent to now sit as an independent MP, breaking the record for the number of MPs on the crossbench. We look implications of this departure on Australian politics, the future of the Liberal Party and the potential impact on the upcoming elections.
    We end this episode with the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the international pressure on Israel to cease military actions and analyse the Australian government’s stance on the issue and the recent confrontation between Peter Dutton and Anthony Albanese in Parliament. We then examine the challenges of addressing this complex geopolitical issue without succumbing to social division, and the National Press Club address by Dr. Francesca Albanese, who gave the media a good lesson in media ethics.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Prayer In C’, Lilly Wood and The Prick (Robin Schulz remix).
    2. ‘Confessions Of A Window Cleaner’, Ed Kuepper.
    3. ‘The Last Goodbye’, Odesza.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    3421auspol,gaza,mcbridefalsefull    China crisis resolved, interest rates, the outrage over Gaza, and Albanese’s falling popularityhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/china-crisis-resolved-interest-rates-the-outrage-over-gaza-and-albanese-s-falling-popularity--57580355First, we discuss Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s successful visit to China, which has played a crucial role in stabilising the Australia–China relationship. We take a closer look at how this relationship was previously strained by the accusations made by former Prime Minister Scott Morrison and former Defence Minister Peter Dutton, who alleged that China was responsible for the outbreak of COVID-19 and we needed to prepare for war over Taiwan. While it was always expected that the Australia–China relationship would eventually be repaired, it required extensive diplomatic work to remove the tariffs and sanctions imposed by China on Australian exporters. We analyse the significance of these developments and whether the Albanese government is receiving due credit for their efforts.
    Shifting our focus to the economic front, we assess the political consequences of the thirteenth consecutive interest rate hike since May 2022. With this ongoing trend, there are growing concerns about its implications for Australians, especially those with mortgages and loans. We explore the intricate connection between politics and interest rates in Australia and the challenges that lie ahead for the Labor government in managing this economic issue.
    In the international arena, we discuss the persistent Gaza bombings by the Israeli military, which have sparked outrage worldwide and the rising death toll, particularly among Palestinian children, has drawn sharp criticism. We analyse the mounting international pressure on the Israeli government and the urgent need for a resolution to this humanitarian crisis.
    Finally, we inspect the latest Newspoll results, indicating that the Labor government is still leading with a 52 per cent two-party preferred vote, while the Liberal–National Coalition trails at 48 per cent. However, Prime Minister Albanese’s high disapproval rating raises some issues about how the next federal elections will be played and consider the implications for the political landscape in Australia. Join us as we navigate the complexities of Australia’s current affairs, offering in-depth analysis and insights into the diplomatic triumphs, economic challenges, and leadership dynamics that shape the nation’s future.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Fivefold’, Agnes Obel.
    2. ‘Everything In Its Right Place’, Radiohead.
    3. ‘La Femme d’Argent’, Air.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57580355Fri, 10 Nov 2023 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we explore the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of Australia’s political, economic, and international affairs. First, we discuss Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s successful visit to China, which has played a...First, we discuss Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s successful visit to China, which has played a crucial role in stabilising the Australia–China relationship. We take a closer look at how this relationship was previously strained by the accusations made by former Prime Minister Scott Morrison and former Defence Minister Peter Dutton, who alleged that China was responsible for the outbreak of COVID-19 and we needed to prepare for war over Taiwan. While it was always expected that the Australia–China relationship would eventually be repaired, it required extensive diplomatic work to remove the tariffs and sanctions imposed by China on Australian exporters. We analyse the significance of these developments and whether the Albanese government is receiving due credit for their efforts.
    Shifting our focus to the economic front, we assess the political consequences of the thirteenth consecutive interest rate hike since May 2022. With this ongoing trend, there are growing concerns about its implications for Australians, especially those with mortgages and loans. We explore the intricate connection between politics and interest rates in Australia and the challenges that lie ahead for the Labor government in managing this economic issue.
    In the international arena, we discuss the persistent Gaza bombings by the Israeli military, which have sparked outrage worldwide and the rising death toll, particularly among Palestinian children, has drawn sharp criticism. We analyse the mounting international pressure on the Israeli government and the urgent need for a resolution to this humanitarian crisis.
    Finally, we inspect the latest Newspoll results, indicating that the Labor government is still leading with a 52 per cent two-party preferred vote, while the Liberal–National Coalition trails at 48 per cent. However, Prime Minister Albanese’s high disapproval rating raises some issues about how the next federal elections will be played and consider the implications for the political landscape in Australia. Join us as we navigate the complexities of Australia’s current affairs, offering in-depth analysis and insights into the diplomatic triumphs, economic challenges, and leadership dynamics that shape the nation’s future.

    Song listing:
    1. ‘Fivefold’, Agnes Obel.
    2. ‘Everything In Its Right Place’, Radiohead.
    3. ‘La Femme d’Argent’, Air.
    4. ‘Praise You’, Fat Boy Slim.
    ]]>    2910auspol,gaza,interestrates,newspollfalsefull    The politics of the Gaza abstention, the imbalance of media balance, and will there be a minority government in 2025?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-politics-of-the-gaza-abstention-the-imbalance-of-media-balance-and-will-there-be-a-minority-government-in-2025--57493726We begin by discussing the recent United Nations vote for a ceasefire and humanitarian truce in Gaza. With 120 countries in favour, the United States’ expected “no” vote, and Australia’s abstention, we dissect the complex geopolitics and motivations behind these decisions and the implications of these diplomatic moves and the significance of international resolutions, even if they are non-binding.
    Delving into the realm of media bias and balance, we scrutinise the state of mainstream media in Australia. Rather than addressing concerns about bias and striving for balanced reporting, we witness a continued drift towards conservative interests, potentially contributing to the decline of legacy media. We explore the media’s reluctance to adapt to the changing media landscape and the need for more diverse perspectives. In our critique of a recent lecture Andrew Ollie Media Lecture, we highlight the industry’s obsession with sensationalism over public interest stories, and advocate for a more inclusive and informative approach to journalism.
    Lastly, we turn our attention to the federal political arena, where speculation abounds regarding the possibility of a minority government in the next Australian federal election. We assess the factors influencing this prospect, from the quality of independent candidates to the government’s performance. With the election 18 months away, we examine the historical context and potential scenarios for the upcoming election, shedding light on the prospects of a minority government.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57493726Fri, 03 Nov 2023 20:55:02 +0000New PoliticsJoin us in this thought-provoking episode as we explore critical issues that are shaping our world, media landscape, and political future. We begin by discussing the recent United Nations vote for a ceasefire and humanitarian truce in Gaza. With 120...We begin by discussing the recent United Nations vote for a ceasefire and humanitarian truce in Gaza. With 120 countries in favour, the United States’ expected “no” vote, and Australia’s abstention, we dissect the complex geopolitics and motivations behind these decisions and the implications of these diplomatic moves and the significance of international resolutions, even if they are non-binding.
    Delving into the realm of media bias and balance, we scrutinise the state of mainstream media in Australia. Rather than addressing concerns about bias and striving for balanced reporting, we witness a continued drift towards conservative interests, potentially contributing to the decline of legacy media. We explore the media’s reluctance to adapt to the changing media landscape and the need for more diverse perspectives. In our critique of a recent lecture Andrew Ollie Media Lecture, we highlight the industry’s obsession with sensationalism over public interest stories, and advocate for a more inclusive and informative approach to journalism.
    Lastly, we turn our attention to the federal political arena, where speculation abounds regarding the possibility of a minority government in the next Australian federal election. We assess the factors influencing this prospect, from the quality of independent candidates to the government’s performance. With the election 18 months away, we examine the historical context and potential scenarios for the upcoming election, shedding light on the prospects of a minority government.]]>    2890auspol,gaza,mediareformfalsefull    Truth in politics, outdated Abbott, sexist attacks on women MPs, and who speaks for Palestinians?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/truth-in-politics-outdated-abbott-sexist-attacks-on-women-mps-and-who-speaks-for-palestinians--57402426
    We also look at Tony Abbott’s controversial stance on Indigenous flags and the Voice to Parliament referendum, raising questions about his divisive legacy. It really shows that the objections to the Voice were masking what these extremists were really thinking.

    The attacks on Victoria’s new premier, Jacinta Allan, by media outlets, including a distasteful sexist cartoon from News Corporation, are discussed, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by women in politics.

    We then take a closer look at the escalating conflict in Palestine, delving into the tragic consequences of the conflict and the global response, while questioning the idea of Israel’s self-defence: where are all the voices in support of the Palestinian people, who are bearing the brunt of all the suffering?

    We also look at the recent opinion polls, where the Liberal–National Coalition has taken a lead in an opinion poll for the first time since January 2021, hinting at a potential shift in political dynamics, reflecting on the electability of figures like Peter Dutton and the challenges faced by first-term governments as the electoral cycle progresses.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57402426Fri, 27 Oct 2023 20:55:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the latest developments in Australian politics and global affairs. The federal government’s decision to introduce truth in political advertising laws before the next federal election is a big topic,...
    We also look at Tony Abbott’s controversial stance on Indigenous flags and the Voice to Parliament referendum, raising questions about his divisive legacy. It really shows that the objections to the Voice were masking what these extremists were really thinking.

    The attacks on Victoria’s new premier, Jacinta Allan, by media outlets, including a distasteful sexist cartoon from News Corporation, are discussed, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by women in politics.

    We then take a closer look at the escalating conflict in Palestine, delving into the tragic consequences of the conflict and the global response, while questioning the idea of Israel’s self-defence: where are all the voices in support of the Palestinian people, who are bearing the brunt of all the suffering?

    We also look at the recent opinion polls, where the Liberal–National Coalition has taken a lead in an opinion poll for the first time since January 2021, hinting at a potential shift in political dynamics, reflecting on the electability of figures like Peter Dutton and the challenges faced by first-term governments as the electoral cycle progresses.]]>    3143auspol,gazaunderattack,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Voiceless: Unpacking the Voice to Parliament referendum defeathttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/voiceless-unpacking-the-voice-to-parliament-referendum-defeat--57312394
    The referendum results were disappointing for many, with 61 per cent of the electorate choosing “No” and only 39 per cent in favour of the proposal. This outcome was disheartening for both the Indigenous community and those who supported the referendum and it means that Australia remains the only colonised country without constitutional recognition of its First Nations people.

    The defeat of this referendum raises questions about the reasons behind it. Was it due to inherent racism, the lack of support from major political parties, the influence of disinformation campaigns, or a poorly executed campaign? It’s likely a combination of all these factors. The referendum’s loss represents a missed opportunity for progress in Reconciliation.

    The Voice to Parliament, a hope for Indigenous representation, has officially ended, but the work towards Reconciliation must continue. The Indigenous community faces new challenges in light of the “No” vote, and there's a prevailing sense that Reconciliation is at an impasse.

    For the first time, Indigenous people were asked what they wanted, and their request was resoundingly rejected by the electorate. This has left a bitter taste for many, as it seemed like a rare opportunity to make their voices heard.

    While the referendum’s completion offers some respite from the heated political discourse, there’s a need to reflect on the misinformation and disinformation campaigns that played a significant role in shaping the outcome. The media’s role in perpetuating these narratives is also scrutinised, with a special focus on News Corporation.

    This episode of New Politics delves into the complexities of the referendum defeat, the impact on Indigenous leaders, and the challenges ahead. It emphasises the importance of continuing the journey toward Reconciliation and Indigenous rights in Australia. While the road may be tough, there’s hope that a new generation of leaders will push for meaningful change.

    As the nation navigates these issues, it’s clear that Australia still has a long way to go in addressing its Indigenous history and rights.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57312394Fri, 20 Oct 2023 20:55:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we dive deep into the recent Voice to Parliament referendum, an important moment in Australian politics. The referendum, an important step toward recognising First Nations people in the Australian Constitution, has sparked...
    The referendum results were disappointing for many, with 61 per cent of the electorate choosing “No” and only 39 per cent in favour of the proposal. This outcome was disheartening for both the Indigenous community and those who supported the referendum and it means that Australia remains the only colonised country without constitutional recognition of its First Nations people.

    The defeat of this referendum raises questions about the reasons behind it. Was it due to inherent racism, the lack of support from major political parties, the influence of disinformation campaigns, or a poorly executed campaign? It’s likely a combination of all these factors. The referendum’s loss represents a missed opportunity for progress in Reconciliation.

    The Voice to Parliament, a hope for Indigenous representation, has officially ended, but the work towards Reconciliation must continue. The Indigenous community faces new challenges in light of the “No” vote, and there's a prevailing sense that Reconciliation is at an impasse.

    For the first time, Indigenous people were asked what they wanted, and their request was resoundingly rejected by the electorate. This has left a bitter taste for many, as it seemed like a rare opportunity to make their voices heard.

    While the referendum’s completion offers some respite from the heated political discourse, there’s a need to reflect on the misinformation and disinformation campaigns that played a significant role in shaping the outcome. The media’s role in perpetuating these narratives is also scrutinised, with a special focus on News Corporation.

    This episode of New Politics delves into the complexities of the referendum defeat, the impact on Indigenous leaders, and the challenges ahead. It emphasises the importance of continuing the journey toward Reconciliation and Indigenous rights in Australia. While the road may be tough, there’s hope that a new generation of leaders will push for meaningful change.

    As the nation navigates these issues, it’s clear that Australia still has a long way to go in addressing its Indigenous history and rights.]]>    3088auspol,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Unravelling the Israel–Palestine conflict, truth in political advertising, D-Day for the Voice referendumhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unravelling-the-israel-palestine-conflict-truth-in-political-advertising-d-day-for-the-voice-referendum--57219363We scrutinise the actions of both Hamas and the Israeli military, emphasising the need for condemnation, not just in recent events but over the past half-century and explore the interconnectedness between political events in Israel and conflicts in the region, particularly focusing on Benjamin Netanyahu’s push for a coalition “government of annexation and dispossession”. How will that help to achieve peace in the region?
    Amid all this, we must not forget the toll on innocent lives, with a stark contrast in casualties between the two sides, shedding light on a massive Palestinian imbalance rarely acknowledged.
    We then look at the need for reform in election funding and campaigning, highlighting the Voice to Parliament referendum, revealing the disturbing behaviour and misinformation propagated by some key figures. We discuss the role of social media, the influence of individuals like Clive Palmer and Gina Rinehart, and the urgency for campaign and electoral funding reform in Australian politics.
    As we approach the day of the Voice to Parliament referendum, irrespective of the result, it’s not as though Reconciliation has been achieved the Closing the Gap process is over: it’s just the start. Lessons have to be learned from this campaign, particularly in the context of misinformation and poor political tactics, that will shape the political landscape and future elections. We analyse the strategies employed by different political parties and the need for a sharpened campaigning strategy by the Labor government if it is to achieve its political goals.
    In a political environment riddled with deception and misinformation, we examine the potential pathways for different parties to achieve their goals, all while maintaining a critical eye on the complex relationship between politics and public sentiment.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57219363Fri, 13 Oct 2023 20:55:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we analyse the recent resurgence of war and conflict in Israel and Palestine, tracing its roots to a history of violence and retaliation. We discuss the attacks and mass casualties inflicted by Hamas militants, the subsequent Israeli...We scrutinise the actions of both Hamas and the Israeli military, emphasising the need for condemnation, not just in recent events but over the past half-century and explore the interconnectedness between political events in Israel and conflicts in the region, particularly focusing on Benjamin Netanyahu’s push for a coalition “government of annexation and dispossession”. How will that help to achieve peace in the region?
    Amid all this, we must not forget the toll on innocent lives, with a stark contrast in casualties between the two sides, shedding light on a massive Palestinian imbalance rarely acknowledged.
    We then look at the need for reform in election funding and campaigning, highlighting the Voice to Parliament referendum, revealing the disturbing behaviour and misinformation propagated by some key figures. We discuss the role of social media, the influence of individuals like Clive Palmer and Gina Rinehart, and the urgency for campaign and electoral funding reform in Australian politics.
    As we approach the day of the Voice to Parliament referendum, irrespective of the result, it’s not as though Reconciliation has been achieved the Closing the Gap process is over: it’s just the start. Lessons have to be learned from this campaign, particularly in the context of misinformation and poor political tactics, that will shape the political landscape and future elections. We analyse the strategies employed by different political parties and the need for a sharpened campaigning strategy by the Labor government if it is to achieve its political goals.
    In a political environment riddled with deception and misinformation, we examine the potential pathways for different parties to achieve their goals, all while maintaining a critical eye on the complex relationship between politics and public sentiment.]]>    2878auspol,gazaunderattack,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    The Voice, Tasmanian turmoil, Disability Royal Commission, lost in the supermarket, Dutton’s immigration disasterhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-voice-tasmanian-turmoil-disability-royal-commission-lost-in-the-supermarket-dutton-s-immigration-disaster--57103615Tasmania’s political landscape is also under scrutiny, as the last Liberal government faces challenges, including resignations, allegations of bullying, and workplace harassment. We explore the impact of these issues on the future of the Liberal Party all across Australia: the party needs to change but how is this going to happen?
    The long-awaited Disability Royal Commission report was released, addressing the long-standing concerns of violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation of people with disabilities. We discuss the recommendations and if Australia wants to be the equitable and just society that it thinks it is, it seriously needs to look at the introduction of a Disability Rights Act.
    Additionally, we cover the poverty wages strike by Coles and Woolworths staff, who are demanding fair wages, better workplace protections, and job security. Of course, Coles and Woolworths need to provide all of this: a combined $2.7 billion in profits last year, and billions of profits over the past decade. And how were these profits made? On the back of worker exploitation and low wages. It’s time for Coles and Woolworths to offer fair pay for fair work.
    Lastly, we discuss the findings of the review of the temporary visa system, highlighting flaws, corrupt activities, and the serious issues faced by temporary visa holders. Peter Dutton’s role as the Minister for Home Affairs in addressing these challenges is examined, and how these attacks on his competence also signal the beginning of the next federal election campaign.
    Join us as we navigate the dynamic landscape of Australian politics and social issues in this excellent episode!]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57103615Fri, 06 Oct 2023 20:55:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode of New Politics, we delve into the latest developments in Australian politics and social issues. The Voice to Parliament referendum is in full swing, with just one week remaining until the crucial October 14th deadline. We discuss the...Tasmania’s political landscape is also under scrutiny, as the last Liberal government faces challenges, including resignations, allegations of bullying, and workplace harassment. We explore the impact of these issues on the future of the Liberal Party all across Australia: the party needs to change but how is this going to happen?
    The long-awaited Disability Royal Commission report was released, addressing the long-standing concerns of violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation of people with disabilities. We discuss the recommendations and if Australia wants to be the equitable and just society that it thinks it is, it seriously needs to look at the introduction of a Disability Rights Act.
    Additionally, we cover the poverty wages strike by Coles and Woolworths staff, who are demanding fair wages, better workplace protections, and job security. Of course, Coles and Woolworths need to provide all of this: a combined $2.7 billion in profits last year, and billions of profits over the past decade. And how were these profits made? On the back of worker exploitation and low wages. It’s time for Coles and Woolworths to offer fair pay for fair work.
    Lastly, we discuss the findings of the review of the temporary visa system, highlighting flaws, corrupt activities, and the serious issues faced by temporary visa holders. Peter Dutton’s role as the Minister for Home Affairs in addressing these challenges is examined, and how these attacks on his competence also signal the beginning of the next federal election campaign.
    Join us as we navigate the dynamic landscape of Australian politics and social issues in this excellent episode!]]>    3193auspol,disabilityrc,visascandal,voicetoparliament,wagetheftfalsefull    The real-life Succession, goodbye Daniel Andrews, COVID inquiry, Pezzullo and Dutton’s poll divehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-real-life-succession-goodbye-daniel-andrews-covid-inquiry-pezzullo-and-dutton-s-poll-dive--56991968First, we discuss the seismic shift in the media landscape as media mogul Rupert Murdoch steps down from his role as chair of Fox News and News Corporation, passing the role to his son, Lachlan Murdoch. Despite this transition, Rupert Murdoch’s enduring influence and controversial past come under scrutiny, raising questions about the future of media conglomerates in a changing landscape.
    We also examine the surprise resignation of Daniel Andrews, the former Premier of Victoria, who managed to defy the odds and secure victory against a backdrop of media opposition. As we reflect on his nine-year tenure, we explore the challenges and accomplishments that define his legacy.
    Next, we turn our attention to the controversy surrounding Michael Pezzullo, the head of the department of Home Affairs, who has been embroiled in partisan political debates. We delve into private text message exchanges that shed light on his political involvement and discuss the broader implications for maintaining the apolitical nature of the public service.
    We discuss the Commonwealth Government Covid-19 Response Inquiry announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. This inquiry aims to scrutinise the early stages of the pandemic, assess government preparedness, and draw lessons from the ongoing crisis. We explore the scope of this inquiry, its implications for future pandemics, and the evolving public sentiment reflected in recent opinion polls which, while it doesn’t provide for good news for Albanese, it has seen a massive drop in support for the leader of the opposition, Peter Dutton. Perhap his racist and divisive attacks on the Voice To Parliament aren’t reaping the political rewards he was after…]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56991968Fri, 29 Sep 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we look at the latest developments in the world of federal politics and the media in Australia. First, we discuss the seismic shift in the media landscape as media mogul Rupert Murdoch steps down from his role as chair of Fox News and...First, we discuss the seismic shift in the media landscape as media mogul Rupert Murdoch steps down from his role as chair of Fox News and News Corporation, passing the role to his son, Lachlan Murdoch. Despite this transition, Rupert Murdoch’s enduring influence and controversial past come under scrutiny, raising questions about the future of media conglomerates in a changing landscape.
    We also examine the surprise resignation of Daniel Andrews, the former Premier of Victoria, who managed to defy the odds and secure victory against a backdrop of media opposition. As we reflect on his nine-year tenure, we explore the challenges and accomplishments that define his legacy.
    Next, we turn our attention to the controversy surrounding Michael Pezzullo, the head of the department of Home Affairs, who has been embroiled in partisan political debates. We delve into private text message exchanges that shed light on his political involvement and discuss the broader implications for maintaining the apolitical nature of the public service.
    We discuss the Commonwealth Government Covid-19 Response Inquiry announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. This inquiry aims to scrutinise the early stages of the pandemic, assess government preparedness, and draw lessons from the ongoing crisis. We explore the scope of this inquiry, its implications for future pandemics, and the evolving public sentiment reflected in recent opinion polls which, while it doesn’t provide for good news for Albanese, it has seen a massive drop in support for the leader of the opposition, Peter Dutton. Perhap his racist and divisive attacks on the Voice To Parliament aren’t reaping the political rewards he was after…]]>    3615auspol,covid,murdochroyalcommissionfalsefull    Climate warnings, nuclear politics, free Assange and Boyle, mediocre media, Voice to Parliamenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/climate-warnings-nuclear-politics-free-assange-and-boyle-mediocre-media-voice-to-parliament--56891433Next, we shift our focus to the recurring debate surrounding nuclear energy, a topic that resurfaces cyclically (and cynically) in Australian politics. We unpack why the Liberal Party continues to champion this issue, even when evidence suggests it is not economically, environmentally, or politically viable.
    We explore the troubling case of whistleblower Richard Boyle, who exposed questionable practices within the Australian Taxation Office. Despite calls to drop the case and concerns about its public interest, the federal government persists in pursuing the criminal trial, potentially leading to a 46-year jail sentence for Boyle. The calls to release Julian Assange are gaining traction, with a key Australian parliamentary delegation in Washington lobbying to gain his release before the end of this year.
    In the realm of media, we analyse the common journalistic strategy of using vague phrases like “a lot of people have said” to make claims without substantiation. We draw parallels to a historic Margaret Thatcher interview in 1981 and discuss the importance of holding journalists accountable for their reporting.
    Finally, we take a closer look at the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum. While misinformation campaigns continue to swirl and controversial statements arise from the “No” campaign, we consider the broader issue of public opposition to the referendum and its implications. As the referendum approaches, we reflect on the challenges and controversies surrounding this critical event and invite our listeners to stay informed about the ongoing developments.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56891433Fri, 22 Sep 2023 22:00:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this week’s episode, we dive into the biggest political issues making headlines in Australia. We kick off by discussing the scorching heatwave that hit Sydney, raising concerns about climate change’s growing impact on weather patterns and the...Next, we shift our focus to the recurring debate surrounding nuclear energy, a topic that resurfaces cyclically (and cynically) in Australian politics. We unpack why the Liberal Party continues to champion this issue, even when evidence suggests it is not economically, environmentally, or politically viable.
    We explore the troubling case of whistleblower Richard Boyle, who exposed questionable practices within the Australian Taxation Office. Despite calls to drop the case and concerns about its public interest, the federal government persists in pursuing the criminal trial, potentially leading to a 46-year jail sentence for Boyle. The calls to release Julian Assange are gaining traction, with a key Australian parliamentary delegation in Washington lobbying to gain his release before the end of this year.
    In the realm of media, we analyse the common journalistic strategy of using vague phrases like “a lot of people have said” to make claims without substantiation. We draw parallels to a historic Margaret Thatcher interview in 1981 and discuss the importance of holding journalists accountable for their reporting.
    Finally, we take a closer look at the upcoming Voice to Parliament referendum. While misinformation campaigns continue to swirl and controversial statements arise from the “No” campaign, we consider the broader issue of public opposition to the referendum and its implications. As the referendum approaches, we reflect on the challenges and controversies surrounding this critical event and invite our listeners to stay informed about the ongoing developments.]]>    3290auspol,climatechange,freeassange,nuclear,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Housing boost, misinformation on the Voice, more sexual harassment from Liberal men, forgotten COVID and bad journalist habits continuehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/housing-boost-misinformation-on-the-voice-more-sexual-harassment-from-liberal-men-forgotten-covid-and-bad-journalist-habits-continue--56806128And within this political manoeuvring, we examine how both the government and the Greens had to strategically position themselves. This led to a significant victory for both, with the Greens securing a $3 billion concession from the government for social housing through the HAFF, and the government getting one of key policies passed.
    The Voice to Parliament referendum has been littered with a campaign of misinformation from the “No” side of the referendum. We uncover the outrageous claims being propagated, including the abolition of Australia Day and Anzac Day, compensation claims, reparations, and a push for Treaty, with many of these talking points have made their way into the discourse of Liberal Party politicians, such as Peter Dutton and Sussan Ley. We revisit our earlier prediction that fear-mongering would intensify as we approach October 14. The claims have become increasingly outlandish, leaving us pondering the eventual outcome of this misinformation campaign.
    We also look at the revelations made by Liberal MP Karen Andrews about harassment within the party during Parliament question time. We contemplate the larger issue of gender dynamics in Australian politics and why speaking out about workplace harassment is more complicated than it may seem. There is a critical need for Parliament House to be a safe working environment for all, from staffers to parliamentarians, an issue highlighted by the independent member Kylea Tink, who highlights the urgency of systemic change.
    COVID-19 seems like a hidden pandemic situation in Australia and we reflect on the stark contrast between the early days of the pandemic and the present, with daily case numbers averaging today just over 700, there are still many people dying from COVID-19 every week. Why have the effects of the pandemic being ignored? We explore the shift from community spread to hospital spread and the hidden risks associated with this development.
    There’s also a current debate surrounding the role of journalists in the Australian media landscape. We question the trend of uncritically reporting opposition statements and the need for journalists to exercise judgment, discern newsworthiness, and hold those in power accountable.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56806128Fri, 15 Sep 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsJoin us for an eventful week in Australian politics as we unpack the latest developments from the heart of Parliament. The week kicked off when the Australian Greens threw their support behind the government's Housing Australia Future Fund bill. While...And within this political manoeuvring, we examine how both the government and the Greens had to strategically position themselves. This led to a significant victory for both, with the Greens securing a $3 billion concession from the government for social housing through the HAFF, and the government getting one of key policies passed.
    The Voice to Parliament referendum has been littered with a campaign of misinformation from the “No” side of the referendum. We uncover the outrageous claims being propagated, including the abolition of Australia Day and Anzac Day, compensation claims, reparations, and a push for Treaty, with many of these talking points have made their way into the discourse of Liberal Party politicians, such as Peter Dutton and Sussan Ley. We revisit our earlier prediction that fear-mongering would intensify as we approach October 14. The claims have become increasingly outlandish, leaving us pondering the eventual outcome of this misinformation campaign.
    We also look at the revelations made by Liberal MP Karen Andrews about harassment within the party during Parliament question time. We contemplate the larger issue of gender dynamics in Australian politics and why speaking out about workplace harassment is more complicated than it may seem. There is a critical need for Parliament House to be a safe working environment for all, from staffers to parliamentarians, an issue highlighted by the independent member Kylea Tink, who highlights the urgency of systemic change.
    COVID-19 seems like a hidden pandemic situation in Australia and we reflect on the stark contrast between the early days of the pandemic and the present, with daily case numbers averaging today just over 700, there are still many people dying from COVID-19 every week. Why have the effects of the pandemic being ignored? We explore the shift from community spread to hospital spread and the hidden risks associated with this development.
    There’s also a current debate surrounding the role of journalists in the Australian media landscape. We question the trend of uncritically reporting opposition statements and the need for journalists to exercise judgment, discern newsworthiness, and hold those in power accountable.]]>    3109auspol,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Gig economy reforms, Qantas, the polls and should we legalise cannabis?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/gig-economy-reforms-qantas-the-polls-and-should-we-legalise-cannabis--56731474We also examine the curious case of Warren Mundine, the leader of the No campaign in the Voice To Parliament, potentially being installed as a Senator in NSW with the imminent departure of Senator Marise Payne. The dynamics of this situation, involving a moderate retiring senator and a conservative-leaning politician, are intriguing.
    The departure of Alan Joyce as the CEO of Qantas is another topic of interest. We discuss the challenges facing the airline and its CEO’s legacy, which includes a substantial payout and leaving behind a successful airline corporation in ruins.
    We address the broader question of why Australia appears hesitant to embrace change, particularly evident in discussions about the Voice to Parliament referendum and industrial relations reforms. Is it a fear rooted in history, conservatism, or something else entirely?
    We also look at the Legalising Cannabis Bill, anti-poverty commission proposals, and challenges in Western Australia politics. Why do some positive social reforms struggle to gain traction, when they are so desperately needed?
    Lastly, we analyse the latest opinion polls, highlighting shifts in public sentiment and the approval ratings of key political figures. Is it too early for the Labor government to be concerned about these numbers?
    Join us as we dissect these pressing issues and strive to understand the currents shaping Australian politics and society.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56731474Fri, 08 Sep 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we delve into the latest happenings in Australian politics and society. Parliament has returned to Canberra, with industrial relations taking the spotlight. Changes for gig economy workers are on the horizon, promising better job...We also examine the curious case of Warren Mundine, the leader of the No campaign in the Voice To Parliament, potentially being installed as a Senator in NSW with the imminent departure of Senator Marise Payne. The dynamics of this situation, involving a moderate retiring senator and a conservative-leaning politician, are intriguing.
    The departure of Alan Joyce as the CEO of Qantas is another topic of interest. We discuss the challenges facing the airline and its CEO’s legacy, which includes a substantial payout and leaving behind a successful airline corporation in ruins.
    We address the broader question of why Australia appears hesitant to embrace change, particularly evident in discussions about the Voice to Parliament referendum and industrial relations reforms. Is it a fear rooted in history, conservatism, or something else entirely?
    We also look at the Legalising Cannabis Bill, anti-poverty commission proposals, and challenges in Western Australia politics. Why do some positive social reforms struggle to gain traction, when they are so desperately needed?
    Lastly, we analyse the latest opinion polls, highlighting shifts in public sentiment and the approval ratings of key political figures. Is it too early for the Labor government to be concerned about these numbers?
    Join us as we dissect these pressing issues and strive to understand the currents shaping Australian politics and society.]]>    3277auspol,qantas,voicetoparliament,voteyesfalsefull    Prime Minister for sale, the Voice to Parliament referendum. And exciting tax reform!https://www.spreaker.com/episode/prime-minister-for-sale-the-voice-to-parliament-referendum-and-exciting-tax-reform--56658333The date for the Voice to Parliament referendum has been announced – October 14 – a proposal that has been in the works for nearly a decade and holds significant implications for race relations and Reconciliation in Australia. This historic moment challenges the nation to truly commit to Reconciliation beyond mere rhetoric, and try to wade through the campaign of misinformation from the No case, which offers nothing except negativity, division, and a healthy dose of racism.
    In addition, we look at the perennial issue of tax reform in Australian politics, exploring why meaningful change remains elusive (hint: politics gets in the way, but the government could always brush the dust off from the cover of the 2010 Henry Tax Review and implement all of its recommendations). We examine how political considerations often overshadow the need for effective revenue generation and the resulting inefficiencies in the tax system.
    And, of course, we can’t ignore the recent 4 per cent pay rise for federal politicians, a topic that always seems to garner clear and consistent bipartisan support. We dissect the arguments for and against this pay increase and discuss the need for a more transparent system for assessing such salary adjustments.
    Finally, we shine a spotlight on allegations of political favouritism in New South Wales, where the Transport Minister faces accusations of appointing a friend to a high-paying position within her portfolio. We explore the implications of such actions and the ongoing challenges of political behaviour in the state which has a long history of corruption within politics, the police force and the judiciary.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56658333Fri, 01 Sep 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsJoin us in this week’s episode as we dive into the latest political controversies and developments in Australia. First up, we discuss the concerning trend of politicians aligning with corporate interests, exemplified by Prime Minister Anthony...The date for the Voice to Parliament referendum has been announced – October 14 – a proposal that has been in the works for nearly a decade and holds significant implications for race relations and Reconciliation in Australia. This historic moment challenges the nation to truly commit to Reconciliation beyond mere rhetoric, and try to wade through the campaign of misinformation from the No case, which offers nothing except negativity, division, and a healthy dose of racism.
    In addition, we look at the perennial issue of tax reform in Australian politics, exploring why meaningful change remains elusive (hint: politics gets in the way, but the government could always brush the dust off from the cover of the 2010 Henry Tax Review and implement all of its recommendations). We examine how political considerations often overshadow the need for effective revenue generation and the resulting inefficiencies in the tax system.
    And, of course, we can’t ignore the recent 4 per cent pay rise for federal politicians, a topic that always seems to garner clear and consistent bipartisan support. We dissect the arguments for and against this pay increase and discuss the need for a more transparent system for assessing such salary adjustments.
    Finally, we shine a spotlight on allegations of political favouritism in New South Wales, where the Transport Minister faces accusations of appointing a friend to a high-paying position within her portfolio. We explore the implications of such actions and the ongoing challenges of political behaviour in the state which has a long history of corruption within politics, the police force and the judiciary.]]>    3417auspol,nswpol,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    A tale of two conferences: Labor and CPAC, corporate profits, Dutton PTSD, ABC future, and ending family rortshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-tale-of-two-conferences-labor-and-cpac-corporate-profits-dutton-ptsd-abc-future-and-ending-family-rorts--56586032The conference held a surprise: a Labor Prime Minister supporting nuclear submarines. Who would have thought it 40 years ago! This development raises questions about the evolving stance of the Labor Party and Anthony Albanese’s statement about the preference of long-term governance stability over short-term implementation of policy. Gough Whitlam’s strategy was to “crash through or crash”, and that resulted in only three years in office but at least a lot was achieved. What’s better: a long-term in office implementing a slow pace of reform, or a shorter-term doing as many things as possible?
    Interestingly, the Conservative Political Action Group held a conference simultaneously. This American-style event, now making its way to Australia, focuses on climate change denial, libertarianism, racism, and opposition to the Voice To Parliament proposal. It’s not true conservatism, it’s not true liberalism: just a culture of complaint that offers no solutions and just says “no” to everything.
    Shifting to the economic sphere, notable corporate profits have been reported recently. While these profits benefit shareholders, not everyone owns shares, leaving a significant portion of the population without direct benefits. This disparity highlights the need for a balanced economic structure that benefits everyone.
    In the political arena, controversies continue. Peter Dutton’s appearance on ‘Kitchen Cabinet’ sparked debates about politicians’ media presence, particularly his potential prime ministerial suitability: is a national television program the right place to announce that you’ve got post-traumatic stress disorder?
    Ita Buttrose’s impending departure from the ABC chairperson role triggered expectations of changes in how the ABC presents news and politics. The ABC’s challenges trace back to the late 1990s, and as media landscapes evolve, the ABC’s role and structure must adapt accordingly.
    Recent revelations involving Anthony Albanese’s son’s internship and a Qantas VIP pass prompted discussions on political ethics. Consistency in reporting these matters across parties and unbiased media coverage is crucial for maintaining public trust in the political system.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56586032Fri, 25 Aug 2023 22:00:03 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we look at all the recent political events, media dynamics, and questions of political favouritism. Last weekend marked the end of the national Labor conference, the first from a Labor government since Julia Gillard’s tenure as Prime...The conference held a surprise: a Labor Prime Minister supporting nuclear submarines. Who would have thought it 40 years ago! This development raises questions about the evolving stance of the Labor Party and Anthony Albanese’s statement about the preference of long-term governance stability over short-term implementation of policy. Gough Whitlam’s strategy was to “crash through or crash”, and that resulted in only three years in office but at least a lot was achieved. What’s better: a long-term in office implementing a slow pace of reform, or a shorter-term doing as many things as possible?
    Interestingly, the Conservative Political Action Group held a conference simultaneously. This American-style event, now making its way to Australia, focuses on climate change denial, libertarianism, racism, and opposition to the Voice To Parliament proposal. It’s not true conservatism, it’s not true liberalism: just a culture of complaint that offers no solutions and just says “no” to everything.
    Shifting to the economic sphere, notable corporate profits have been reported recently. While these profits benefit shareholders, not everyone owns shares, leaving a significant portion of the population without direct benefits. This disparity highlights the need for a balanced economic structure that benefits everyone.
    In the political arena, controversies continue. Peter Dutton’s appearance on ‘Kitchen Cabinet’ sparked debates about politicians’ media presence, particularly his potential prime ministerial suitability: is a national television program the right place to announce that you’ve got post-traumatic stress disorder?
    Ita Buttrose’s impending departure from the ABC chairperson role triggered expectations of changes in how the ABC presents news and politics. The ABC’s challenges trace back to the late 1990s, and as media landscapes evolve, the ABC’s role and structure must adapt accordingly.
    Recent revelations involving Anthony Albanese’s son’s internship and a Qantas VIP pass prompted discussions on political ethics. Consistency in reporting these matters across parties and unbiased media coverage is crucial for maintaining public trust in the political system.]]>    3464auspol,cpac,kitchencabinetfalsefull    The search for a nuclear device, the Matildas holiday, rental politics, branch stacking and the latest on the Voicehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-search-for-a-nuclear-device-the-matildas-holiday-rental-politics-branch-stacking-and-the-latest-on-the-voice--56510080Do sport and politics mix? Of course, and we look at this intersection, focusing on the recent debate over a potential national holiday in the event of a Matildas World Cup victory. We scrutinise statements from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, uncovering how media framing can impact public perception. But it’s all moot: the Matildas are out of the tournament, which at least will keep the sad sack conservative anti-woke nihilists happy: can’t have a sports team supporting the Voice or same-sex marriage.
    National Cabinet met during the week, and we detail recent decisions made, including the expansion of the National Housing Accord and the introduction of consistent rental rules. We address criticisms from the Australian Greens and explore their political motivations.
    There’s also the media conniptions about branch stacking in Victoria, centred around Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio but, yet again, it’s another attempt by News Corporation to make it seem that Premier Daniel Andrews is a bad man, and a corrupt one as well. We assess the significance of these allegations in the political landscape and their portrayal in the media.
    We also analyse recent opinion polling data, highlighting the Labor government's electoral strength, contrasting it with the falling approval ratings for Albanese and the correlation with the fall in support for the Voice. Is it time to drop the referendum and start all over again? Senator Lidia Thorpe thinks it is: it’s time for Treaty, truth-telling and reparations, but it’s impossible to implement these when there is so much resistance from the conservative side of politics and the mainstream media.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56510080Fri, 18 Aug 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we look into the ongoing discourse surrounding nuclear energy policy in Australia, tracing back to the Coalition’s push for nuclear power from opposition, and its incongruous approach to the issue while in government. We dissect...Do sport and politics mix? Of course, and we look at this intersection, focusing on the recent debate over a potential national holiday in the event of a Matildas World Cup victory. We scrutinise statements from Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton, uncovering how media framing can impact public perception. But it’s all moot: the Matildas are out of the tournament, which at least will keep the sad sack conservative anti-woke nihilists happy: can’t have a sports team supporting the Voice or same-sex marriage.
    National Cabinet met during the week, and we detail recent decisions made, including the expansion of the National Housing Accord and the introduction of consistent rental rules. We address criticisms from the Australian Greens and explore their political motivations.
    There’s also the media conniptions about branch stacking in Victoria, centred around Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio but, yet again, it’s another attempt by News Corporation to make it seem that Premier Daniel Andrews is a bad man, and a corrupt one as well. We assess the significance of these allegations in the political landscape and their portrayal in the media.
    We also analyse recent opinion polling data, highlighting the Labor government's electoral strength, contrasting it with the falling approval ratings for Albanese and the correlation with the fall in support for the Voice. Is it time to drop the referendum and start all over again? Senator Lidia Thorpe thinks it is: it’s time for Treaty, truth-telling and reparations, but it’s impossible to implement these when there is so much resistance from the conservative side of politics and the mainstream media.]]>    3125auspol,danielandrews,matildas,vicpol,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Divisive Dutton blows up The Voice, Lehrmann trial corruption, and Kitchen Cabinet political kitschhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/divisive-dutton-blows-up-the-voice-lehrmann-trial-corruption-and-kitchen-cabinet-political-kitsch--56435410His actions are solely geared towards securing his leadership position and catering to the ambitions of his party in the upcoming federal election but his reluctance to engage directly with Indigenous communities and preference for certain right-wing media outlets brings up concerns about his commitment to representing diverse interests – essential for a leader who wishes to become prime minister.
    The Sofronoff report was released during the week, and it was meant to shed light on the mishandling of the trial of Bruce Lehrmann, exposing various missteps in the criminal justice system. From the involvement of Liberal Party Ministers to the Australian Federal Police’s actions, and the poor treatment of the complainant Brittany Higgins, we uncover a web of errors that has shaken public trust. The report seems more like a hit-job on Public Prosecutor Shane Drumgold, and the outcomes contained within the report led to his resignation. KC Walter Sofronoff’s communication with a News Corporation journalist and the subsequent report release added another layer of complexity to this ongoing saga, and we may need to hold another inquiry, into the inquiry.
    We look into recent the media scrutiny surrounding politicians’ family members. The case of Nathan Albanese, the son of the Prime Minister, receiving a Qantas Chairman’s Lounge VIP has triggered discussions on the boundaries between politicians and their families. Drawing comparisons with past instances, we reflect on media portrayals of similar situations involving politicians from different parties – for example, there was little scrutiny when the Tony Abbott’s daughter became a brand ambassador for BMW, so why is there so much scrutiny on the son of a Labor prime minister?
    We explore the television series “Kitchen Cabinet”, which blends culinary endeavours with political discussions, seeking to humanise politicians beyond their public personas. There have criticisms raised against the concept, questioning whether this attempt to present politicians in a personal light is necessary or if their actions in the political arena should speak for themselves. One episode from 2015 featured Scott Morrison preparing a Sri Lankan fish curry at a time when he turned back Sri Lankan asylum seekers, glossing over serious issues in favour of more light-hearted banter. Politicians should be judged on their political actions, not on whether they can cook up a curry or not, and “Kitchen Cabinet” is a reflection of the sad state of political coverage in Australia.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56435410Fri, 11 Aug 2023 22:00:03 +0000New PoliticsIn this week’s episode, we delve into the latest developments and controversies in federal politics. The Voice to Parliament has consumed parliamentary discussions throughout the week, with Liberal Party leader Peter Dutton sowing seeds of division,...His actions are solely geared towards securing his leadership position and catering to the ambitions of his party in the upcoming federal election but his reluctance to engage directly with Indigenous communities and preference for certain right-wing media outlets brings up concerns about his commitment to representing diverse interests – essential for a leader who wishes to become prime minister.
    The Sofronoff report was released during the week, and it was meant to shed light on the mishandling of the trial of Bruce Lehrmann, exposing various missteps in the criminal justice system. From the involvement of Liberal Party Ministers to the Australian Federal Police’s actions, and the poor treatment of the complainant Brittany Higgins, we uncover a web of errors that has shaken public trust. The report seems more like a hit-job on Public Prosecutor Shane Drumgold, and the outcomes contained within the report led to his resignation. KC Walter Sofronoff’s communication with a News Corporation journalist and the subsequent report release added another layer of complexity to this ongoing saga, and we may need to hold another inquiry, into the inquiry.
    We look into recent the media scrutiny surrounding politicians’ family members. The case of Nathan Albanese, the son of the Prime Minister, receiving a Qantas Chairman’s Lounge VIP has triggered discussions on the boundaries between politicians and their families. Drawing comparisons with past instances, we reflect on media portrayals of similar situations involving politicians from different parties – for example, there was little scrutiny when the Tony Abbott’s daughter became a brand ambassador for BMW, so why is there so much scrutiny on the son of a Labor prime minister?
    We explore the television series “Kitchen Cabinet”, which blends culinary endeavours with political discussions, seeking to humanise politicians beyond their public personas. There have criticisms raised against the concept, questioning whether this attempt to present politicians in a personal light is necessary or if their actions in the political arena should speak for themselves. One episode from 2015 featured Scott Morrison preparing a Sri Lankan fish curry at a time when he turned back Sri Lankan asylum seekers, glossing over serious issues in favour of more light-hearted banter. Politicians should be judged on their political actions, not on whether they can cook up a curry or not, and “Kitchen Cabinet” is a reflection of the sad state of political coverage in Australia.]]>    2998auspol,kitchencabinet,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Morrisonian Doctrine, Dutton under pressure, environment in danger, national consent and an early election?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/morrisonian-doctrine-dutton-under-pressure-environment-in-danger-national-consent-and-an-early-election--56362558Another leader under pressure is the Liberal Party leader, Peter Dutton, as calls for a Royal Commission into immigration detention gain momentum. We discuss the recent revelations surrounding a major contract with a corrupt businessman and comments made by Dutton, raising questions about transparency and accountability.
    We look at the latest environmental news, examining UNESCO’s decision to defer listing the Great Barrier Reef on the “in danger” list. While the Labor government’s efforts to address climate change and greenhouse emissions are acknowledged, there are concerns about the approval of coal mines and gas exploration licenses. Are these actions are enough to protect the environment adequately? No, there needs to be more action to reduce global warming and greenhouse gas emissions.
    This episode also delves into the three-day Senate inquiry into sexual consent laws in Australia, its significance in reducing sexual violence against women, and the need for consistent laws across jurisdictions. But, as usual, more needs to be done.
    Finally, we explore the potential impact of the Housing Australia Future Fund Bill on the political landscape and the likelihood of an early election and the historical context of double-dissolution elections in Australia. As much as the mainstream media is agitating for an early election, we just can’t see it happening any time soon.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56362558Fri, 04 Aug 2023 22:00:03 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we explore the pressing matters facing the Parliament this week. First up, the aftermath of the Royal Commission into the Robodebt Scheme, its impact on the political landscape, and the responses from key figures such as former Prime...Another leader under pressure is the Liberal Party leader, Peter Dutton, as calls for a Royal Commission into immigration detention gain momentum. We discuss the recent revelations surrounding a major contract with a corrupt businessman and comments made by Dutton, raising questions about transparency and accountability.
    We look at the latest environmental news, examining UNESCO’s decision to defer listing the Great Barrier Reef on the “in danger” list. While the Labor government’s efforts to address climate change and greenhouse emissions are acknowledged, there are concerns about the approval of coal mines and gas exploration licenses. Are these actions are enough to protect the environment adequately? No, there needs to be more action to reduce global warming and greenhouse gas emissions.
    This episode also delves into the three-day Senate inquiry into sexual consent laws in Australia, its significance in reducing sexual violence against women, and the need for consistent laws across jurisdictions. But, as usual, more needs to be done.
    Finally, we explore the potential impact of the Housing Australia Future Fund Bill on the political landscape and the likelihood of an early election and the historical context of double-dissolution elections in Australia. As much as the mainstream media is agitating for an early election, we just can’t see it happening any time soon.]]>    2753auspol,climatechange,robodebtfalsefull    The Dutton corruption files, a wellbeing Budget, and we need a super profit tax nowhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-dutton-corruption-files-a-wellbeing-budget-and-we-need-a-super-profit-tax-now--56256572In the spotlight is Peter Dutton, the leader of the Liberal Party, who finds himself entangled in a web of questions surrounding his knowledge of contracts for offshore processing services in Nauru, made with a businessman who was convicted of corruption and bribery. We’ll trace back to Dutton’s time as Minister for Home Affairs – it’s alleged the Australian Federal Police briefed him about an investigation into the businessman’s possible corruption yet, despite this knowledge, the Department of Home Affairs proceeded to enter into contracts with the businessman’s company, Radiance International. We look at the implications of this controversial decision and why Peter Dutton needs to address these very concerning events.
    We also analyse Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ announcement of the first-ever wellbeing budget. Termed the Measuring What Matters national wellbeing framework, this budget promises a new perspective on economic decisions. We’ll explore how this budget links national finances to the social wellbeing of the community, challenging the conventional focus on abstract concepts like a budget surplus or deficit. However, not everyone is on board with this innovative approach, as critics, including the usual suspects News Corporation and Sky News, seek to discredit the wellbeing budget. Discover why this framework has received both praise and skepticism from different quarters of society.
    The CFMEU has put forward a bold proposal to fund public and affordable housing through a tax on corporate super profits. Zach Smith, the secretary of the CFMEU, unveiled this campaign at the National Press Club, outlining how a permanent 40% tax on excess profits could generate a substantial $29 billion annually. This significant revenue could then be used to build 53,000 new homes each year, contributing to addressing the estimated shortfall of 750,000 homes by 2041. We’ll contrast this with the Labor government’s housing proposal, which pales in comparison and has been met with criticism for its lack of ambition. We also examine the history of the resource super profit tax and why it failed to achieve its potential in the past.
    Of course, there’s political implications and opposition surrounding the super profit tax proposal, and we look at Bill Shorten’s stance against considering a super profit tax and the potential media and Coalition backlash – there are merits and drawbacks of such a tax but it could be a game-changer for funding various public projects.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56256572Fri, 28 Jul 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsJoin us for an engaging and insightful episode of New Politics as we delve into some of the most pressing political and economic issues facing Australia today. In the spotlight is Peter Dutton, the leader of the Liberal Party, who finds himself...In the spotlight is Peter Dutton, the leader of the Liberal Party, who finds himself entangled in a web of questions surrounding his knowledge of contracts for offshore processing services in Nauru, made with a businessman who was convicted of corruption and bribery. We’ll trace back to Dutton’s time as Minister for Home Affairs – it’s alleged the Australian Federal Police briefed him about an investigation into the businessman’s possible corruption yet, despite this knowledge, the Department of Home Affairs proceeded to enter into contracts with the businessman’s company, Radiance International. We look at the implications of this controversial decision and why Peter Dutton needs to address these very concerning events.
    We also analyse Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ announcement of the first-ever wellbeing budget. Termed the Measuring What Matters national wellbeing framework, this budget promises a new perspective on economic decisions. We’ll explore how this budget links national finances to the social wellbeing of the community, challenging the conventional focus on abstract concepts like a budget surplus or deficit. However, not everyone is on board with this innovative approach, as critics, including the usual suspects News Corporation and Sky News, seek to discredit the wellbeing budget. Discover why this framework has received both praise and skepticism from different quarters of society.
    The CFMEU has put forward a bold proposal to fund public and affordable housing through a tax on corporate super profits. Zach Smith, the secretary of the CFMEU, unveiled this campaign at the National Press Club, outlining how a permanent 40% tax on excess profits could generate a substantial $29 billion annually. This significant revenue could then be used to build 53,000 new homes each year, contributing to addressing the estimated shortfall of 750,000 homes by 2041. We’ll contrast this with the Labor government’s housing proposal, which pales in comparison and has been met with criticism for its lack of ambition. We also examine the history of the resource super profit tax and why it failed to achieve its potential in the past.
    Of course, there’s political implications and opposition surrounding the super profit tax proposal, and we look at Bill Shorten’s stance against considering a super profit tax and the potential media and Coalition backlash – there are merits and drawbacks of such a tax but it could be a game-changer for funding various public projects.]]>    2817auspolfalsefull    Does Albanese really want The Voice to succeed? PLUS Fadden wrap, corrupt Deloitte, Commonwealth Games cancelled, private school fundinghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/does-albanese-really-want-the-voice-to-succeed-plus-fadden-wrap-corrupt-deloitte-commonwealth-games-cancelled-private-school-funding--56176674Next, we shine a spotlight on one of the Big 4 consultancy firms, Deloitte, which is under scrutiny for conflicts of interest and misuse of government information during federal government consultancies. Drawing connections with previous breaches by PwC, we explore the revelations unveiled through Senate Estimates, thanks to the meticulous questioning by Australian Greens Senator Barbara Pocock and Labor Senator Deborah O’Neil. We also look at the calls for stronger legislation and even a potential Royal Commission into government outsourcing, given the staggering sums involved in federal government outsourcing – $21 billion.
    We then turn our attention to sport and the recent decision to cancel the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria. The reasons behind this move by Premier Daniel Andrews relate to major cost blowouts and dwindling public interest in the Commonwealth Games – certainly, this is not good news for professional athletes, but if the cost is becoming unaffordable, it’s best to cancel the games. This is what the conservative media had been calling for – cancelling the games – but now the games have been cancelled, they’re attacking the Victoria government for doing exactly what they asked for. Duplicity!
    We also look into the contentious issue of government funding for private schools versus public schools and the alarming revelation that government funding for private schools has doubled over the past decade, resulting in one of the least equitable schooling systems among OECD countries. We discuss the historical context and the neoliberal kick-start provided by the Howard government in 1996, under the banner of ‘choice’ for parents – when effectively, the choice was just a grant illusion – emphasising the need for reform to achieve a fairer distribution of public funds in the education sector.
    We then analyse the latest opinion polls and unravel the contrasting interpretations offered by conservative media outlets versus the actual poll numbers. We provide a nuanced analysis of the polls, which show support for the Labor government remaining steady – or increasing – debunking claims of a waning honeymoon for the Prime Minister and the Labor Party.
    Lastly, we examine of the Voice to Parliament campaign’s decline in support. Drawing parallels with the 1999 Republic referendum, we explore the patterns of shifting public opinion and the challenges faced in sustaining momentum for such initiatives. We also look at the complexities of controlling political agendas and the role of prominent conservative figures like Senator Jacinta Price, Warren Mundine, and Peter Dutton in shaping the negative campaign’s narrative.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56176674Fri, 21 Jul 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this action-packed episode, first, we look at the aftermath of the Fadden byelection. Although it may seem like business as usual for some, we look into the federal implications and significance of the result in this conservative seat of Gold Coast...Next, we shine a spotlight on one of the Big 4 consultancy firms, Deloitte, which is under scrutiny for conflicts of interest and misuse of government information during federal government consultancies. Drawing connections with previous breaches by PwC, we explore the revelations unveiled through Senate Estimates, thanks to the meticulous questioning by Australian Greens Senator Barbara Pocock and Labor Senator Deborah O’Neil. We also look at the calls for stronger legislation and even a potential Royal Commission into government outsourcing, given the staggering sums involved in federal government outsourcing – $21 billion.
    We then turn our attention to sport and the recent decision to cancel the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria. The reasons behind this move by Premier Daniel Andrews relate to major cost blowouts and dwindling public interest in the Commonwealth Games – certainly, this is not good news for professional athletes, but if the cost is becoming unaffordable, it’s best to cancel the games. This is what the conservative media had been calling for – cancelling the games – but now the games have been cancelled, they’re attacking the Victoria government for doing exactly what they asked for. Duplicity!
    We also look into the contentious issue of government funding for private schools versus public schools and the alarming revelation that government funding for private schools has doubled over the past decade, resulting in one of the least equitable schooling systems among OECD countries. We discuss the historical context and the neoliberal kick-start provided by the Howard government in 1996, under the banner of ‘choice’ for parents – when effectively, the choice was just a grant illusion – emphasising the need for reform to achieve a fairer distribution of public funds in the education sector.
    We then analyse the latest opinion polls and unravel the contrasting interpretations offered by conservative media outlets versus the actual poll numbers. We provide a nuanced analysis of the polls, which show support for the Labor government remaining steady – or increasing – debunking claims of a waning honeymoon for the Prime Minister and the Labor Party.
    Lastly, we examine of the Voice to Parliament campaign’s decline in support. Drawing parallels with the 1999 Republic referendum, we explore the patterns of shifting public opinion and the challenges faced in sustaining momentum for such initiatives. We also look at the complexities of controlling political agendas and the role of prominent conservative figures like Senator Jacinta Price, Warren Mundine, and Peter Dutton in shaping the negative campaign’s narrative.]]>    3159auspol,fadden,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Robodebt fallout for Morrison, NATO Summit, the Misinformation Bill, Fadden byelection, and a new Reserve Bank Governorhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/robodebt-fallout-for-morrison-nato-summit-the-misinformation-bill-fadden-byelection-and-a-new-reserve-bank-governor--56101470
    Shifting our focus to international affairs, we discuss Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s attendance at the crucial NATO Summit in Lithuania. Against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine, both Ukraine and Sweden express their desire to join NATO. Although Australia is not a member, there have been talks of potential expansion into Asia – former Prime Minister Paul Keating has criticised this idea, warning against importing European militarism to the region.

    Turning closer to home, we examine the campaign of misinformation surrounding the federal government’s Combating Misinformation and Disinformation Bill. Sky News and News Corporation have launched a campaign against it, employing misinformation to sway public opinion. Unsurprisingly, the Liberal Party aligns with this opposition, as their interests align with spreading falsehoods. The effectiveness of the Bill in combating misinformation through media platforms remains uncertain, but action is necessary.

    We also touch upon the upcoming byelection in Fadden and the lack of interest surrounding it. Unlike the Aston byelection, which garnered significant media attention, Fadden seems to have a subdued atmosphere. Both sides of politics manage expectations, with Peter Dutton suggesting the Liberal–National Party will lose ground while the Labor Party claims they have no chance of winning. This cautious positioning allows for easier explanations regardless of the outcome.

    And finally, Philip Lowe will not be reappointed as the Reserve Bank Governor. Michelle Bullock, currently the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank and with the Bank since 1984, will take up the position in September, becoming the first woman to hold the job.

    Join us as we explore these topics, unravel the complexities, and provide insights into the latest developments shaping Australia's political landscape.

    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56101470Fri, 14 Jul 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we delve into the ongoing fallout from the Robodebt Royal Commission report. Despite waning media interest, the problem persists, and the call for former Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s resignation from Parliament grows louder....
    Shifting our focus to international affairs, we discuss Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s attendance at the crucial NATO Summit in Lithuania. Against the backdrop of the war in Ukraine, both Ukraine and Sweden express their desire to join NATO. Although Australia is not a member, there have been talks of potential expansion into Asia – former Prime Minister Paul Keating has criticised this idea, warning against importing European militarism to the region.

    Turning closer to home, we examine the campaign of misinformation surrounding the federal government’s Combating Misinformation and Disinformation Bill. Sky News and News Corporation have launched a campaign against it, employing misinformation to sway public opinion. Unsurprisingly, the Liberal Party aligns with this opposition, as their interests align with spreading falsehoods. The effectiveness of the Bill in combating misinformation through media platforms remains uncertain, but action is necessary.

    We also touch upon the upcoming byelection in Fadden and the lack of interest surrounding it. Unlike the Aston byelection, which garnered significant media attention, Fadden seems to have a subdued atmosphere. Both sides of politics manage expectations, with Peter Dutton suggesting the Liberal–National Party will lose ground while the Labor Party claims they have no chance of winning. This cautious positioning allows for easier explanations regardless of the outcome.

    And finally, Philip Lowe will not be reappointed as the Reserve Bank Governor. Michelle Bullock, currently the Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank and with the Bank since 1984, will take up the position in September, becoming the first woman to hold the job.

    Join us as we explore these topics, unravel the complexities, and provide insights into the latest developments shaping Australia's political landscape.

    ]]>    2730auspol,faddenbyelection,robodebtfalsefull    Robodebt scandal revelations, reducing the NACC of corruption, interest rates and the right wing takeover of The Voicehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/robodebt-scandal-revelations-reducing-the-nacc-of-corruption-interest-rates-and-the-right-wing-takeover-of-the-voice--56027582
    The Robodebt Royal Commission report was released, consisting of 990 pages and 57 recommendations – and a ‘sealed section’ containing referrals for civil and criminal prosecution, which will go to the new National Anti Corruption Commission. The report vindicates those affected by the Robodebt system and highlights the failures of the system over the past five years. It was a scandalous program and should never have been implemented.

    There is also a significant focus on interest rates, with speculation and debates about their impact on the Australian economy. The Reserve Bank decided to leave interest rates at 4.1%, raising questions about the political motivations behind the decision. And, as usual, the Liberal Party claims credit for the stable rates – even though they’ve been out of office for 14 months – while criticising Labor when rates go up. They can’t have it both ways.

    The Voice To Parliament campaigns continue, with misinformation, lies, and racism characterising the “no” campaign. Peter Dutton, one of the most nefarious leaders ever of the Liberal Party, faces a crucial byelection in the Queensland seat of Fadden. A poor performance in the byelection may result in the end of Dutton’s leadership so, of course, he has made outrageous claims, attacked mining companies and retailers supporting the Voice to Parliament campaign, and criticised Anthony Albanese and the Labor government for their focus on the issue. Apparently, it’s also the cause of the rise of the price of milk.

    These naysayers are hard on the ears, with all of their outrageous lies, racism and misinformation. If only they could sit down, shut up, and listen to Indigenous Affairs minister, Linda Burney, who provided one of the all-time great speeches at the National Press Club.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56027582Fri, 07 Jul 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this podcast episode, the National Anti Corruption Commission has finally opened its doors and already received 44 referrals regarding potential corruption cases, most of which will involve the former Morrison government: secret ministries,...
    The Robodebt Royal Commission report was released, consisting of 990 pages and 57 recommendations – and a ‘sealed section’ containing referrals for civil and criminal prosecution, which will go to the new National Anti Corruption Commission. The report vindicates those affected by the Robodebt system and highlights the failures of the system over the past five years. It was a scandalous program and should never have been implemented.

    There is also a significant focus on interest rates, with speculation and debates about their impact on the Australian economy. The Reserve Bank decided to leave interest rates at 4.1%, raising questions about the political motivations behind the decision. And, as usual, the Liberal Party claims credit for the stable rates – even though they’ve been out of office for 14 months – while criticising Labor when rates go up. They can’t have it both ways.

    The Voice To Parliament campaigns continue, with misinformation, lies, and racism characterising the “no” campaign. Peter Dutton, one of the most nefarious leaders ever of the Liberal Party, faces a crucial byelection in the Queensland seat of Fadden. A poor performance in the byelection may result in the end of Dutton’s leadership so, of course, he has made outrageous claims, attacked mining companies and retailers supporting the Voice to Parliament campaign, and criticised Anthony Albanese and the Labor government for their focus on the issue. Apparently, it’s also the cause of the rise of the price of milk.

    These naysayers are hard on the ears, with all of their outrageous lies, racism and misinformation. If only they could sit down, shut up, and listen to Indigenous Affairs minister, Linda Burney, who provided one of the all-time great speeches at the National Press Club.
    ]]>    3433auspol,nacc,robodebtrc,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Serious corruption in NSW, Russia and the Australia media, vale Simon Crean and is Labor heading in the wrong direction?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/serious-corruption-in-nsw-russia-and-the-australia-media-vale-simon-crean-and-is-labor-heading-in-the-wrong-direction--55604184
    The war in Ukraine and recent events in Russia: Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner paramilitary force, instigated an insurrection in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, before surrendering his weapons and seeking exile in Belarus through a deal with President Alexander Lukashenko. The potential implications of this event, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and its potential to spread to Russia, pose serious risks for Europe and the rest of the world. However, Australian media coverage of these events has been lacking, leading people to seek information through alternative channels such as Twitter, Reddit, CNN, or Al Jazeera.

    The former Labor leader Simon Crean died during the week, and is remembered as one of the more decent figures in federal politics, received tributes from all sides of the political spectrum. Although his tenure as Labor leader from 2001 to 2003 was not marked by strong public support or success in opinion polls, Crean made significant reforms within the Labor Party to make it more democratic and less dominated by union bureaucrats. His memorable speech opposing the Iraq war showcased his courage and foresight, ultimately vindicating his position.

    We also look at recent opinion polling – the two-party preferred voting figures, which remain relatively stable with Labor at 54% and the Coalition at 46%. However, of particular concern for the federal government is the decline in the percentage of people who believe Australia is heading in the right direction. Over the course of a year, the figure dropped from 48% to 33%, while the number of people expressing that the country is going in the wrong direction increased from 27% to 47%. This shift in public opinion could have implications for the government's popularity and electoral prospects.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/55604184Fri, 30 Jun 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we look at the release of findings by the NSW ICAC regarding former Premier Gladys Berejiklian and former NSW MP, Daryl Maguire. The ICAC found both individuals engaged in serious corruption, with Berejiklian breaching public trust by...
    The war in Ukraine and recent events in Russia: Yevgeny Prigozhin, the leader of the Wagner paramilitary force, instigated an insurrection in Rostov-on-Don, Russia, before surrendering his weapons and seeking exile in Belarus through a deal with President Alexander Lukashenko. The potential implications of this event, including the ongoing war in Ukraine and its potential to spread to Russia, pose serious risks for Europe and the rest of the world. However, Australian media coverage of these events has been lacking, leading people to seek information through alternative channels such as Twitter, Reddit, CNN, or Al Jazeera.

    The former Labor leader Simon Crean died during the week, and is remembered as one of the more decent figures in federal politics, received tributes from all sides of the political spectrum. Although his tenure as Labor leader from 2001 to 2003 was not marked by strong public support or success in opinion polls, Crean made significant reforms within the Labor Party to make it more democratic and less dominated by union bureaucrats. His memorable speech opposing the Iraq war showcased his courage and foresight, ultimately vindicating his position.

    We also look at recent opinion polling – the two-party preferred voting figures, which remain relatively stable with Labor at 54% and the Coalition at 46%. However, of particular concern for the federal government is the decline in the percentage of people who believe Australia is heading in the right direction. Over the course of a year, the figure dropped from 48% to 33%, while the number of people expressing that the country is going in the wrong direction increased from 27% to 47%. This shift in public opinion could have implications for the government's popularity and electoral prospects.]]>    3013auspol,berejiklian,nswpolfalsefull    Greens stall Labor’s housing fund, strange alliances on the Voice, Dutton's makeover, Lambie ADF move, RBA’s bad inflation planhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/greens-stall-labor-s-housing-fund-strange-alliances-on-the-voice-dutton-s-makeover-lambie-adf-move-rba-s-bad-inflation-plan--54836223
    We look at the approved Referendum for a Voice to Parliament legislation, highlighting the significance of this milestone in a historically challenging journey. We analyse the controversial decision of Senator Lidia Thorpe to campaign against the Voice to Parliament, forming an unexpected alliance with the Liberal Party, the National Party, and One Nation. We explore the reasons behind this collaboration and the debate surrounding the adequacy of the proposed legislation.

    Peter Dutton is undergoing an image makeover and, like many leaders before him, seeks to present a more appealing persona to the electorate. We dissect the strategies employed by political leaders to shape public perception, but it might be lost cause for Dutton, who doesn’t appear to have to much time available to him, to turn these perceptions around.

    Next, we turn our attention to Senator Jackie Lambie, who has taken the bold step of referring the Australian Defence Force to the International Criminal Court over their actions in Afghanistan. We discuss the lack of accountability for the killing of 39 Afghan civilians by Australian special forces and the importance of shedding light on such incidents, and examine the delicate balance between government-military relations and the need for transparency in addressing war crimes.

    The Reserve Bank’s recent announcement of their strategy to reduce inflation by increasing the unemployment rate, has drawn strong criticism. We evaluate the neoliberal economic theory behind this tactic, which relies on higher unemployment to create job market competition and suppress wages. We question the sustainability and societal impact of such measures and propose alternative economic models for consideration.

    Join us as we navigate the complex landscape of politics, shedding light on the critical issues at hand and exploring the potential solutions: a thought-provoking episode that aims to unravel the layers of drama and decision-making in the realm of federal politics! #auspol #VoiceToParliament]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54836223Fri, 23 Jun 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we explore the Housing Australia Future Fund legislation, which has been delayed in the Senate by the Australian Greens and the Liberal Party, despite the pressing national housing crisis. We discuss the implications and the...
    We look at the approved Referendum for a Voice to Parliament legislation, highlighting the significance of this milestone in a historically challenging journey. We analyse the controversial decision of Senator Lidia Thorpe to campaign against the Voice to Parliament, forming an unexpected alliance with the Liberal Party, the National Party, and One Nation. We explore the reasons behind this collaboration and the debate surrounding the adequacy of the proposed legislation.

    Peter Dutton is undergoing an image makeover and, like many leaders before him, seeks to present a more appealing persona to the electorate. We dissect the strategies employed by political leaders to shape public perception, but it might be lost cause for Dutton, who doesn’t appear to have to much time available to him, to turn these perceptions around.

    Next, we turn our attention to Senator Jackie Lambie, who has taken the bold step of referring the Australian Defence Force to the International Criminal Court over their actions in Afghanistan. We discuss the lack of accountability for the killing of 39 Afghan civilians by Australian special forces and the importance of shedding light on such incidents, and examine the delicate balance between government-military relations and the need for transparency in addressing war crimes.

    The Reserve Bank’s recent announcement of their strategy to reduce inflation by increasing the unemployment rate, has drawn strong criticism. We evaluate the neoliberal economic theory behind this tactic, which relies on higher unemployment to create job market competition and suppress wages. We question the sustainability and societal impact of such measures and propose alternative economic models for consideration.

    Join us as we navigate the complex landscape of politics, shedding light on the critical issues at hand and exploring the potential solutions: a thought-provoking episode that aims to unravel the layers of drama and decision-making in the realm of federal politics! #auspol #VoiceToParliament]]>    2940auspol,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    An awful week in politics, fixing housing and is the Voice To Parliament really in trouble?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/an-awful-week-in-politics-fixing-housing-and-is-the-voice-to-parliament-really-in-trouble--54460299
    We also address the issue of housing affordability in Australia and speak with Cathy Callaghan, senior policy officer at Shelter NSW, who provides an overview of the various aspects of housing policy that need attention in order to achieve a sustainable and equitable housing sector in the future. Housing has been neglected by successive governments over the past 30 years, with social and public housing largely left to the private sector, which is a significant reason why we are facing the problems we have today. Resolving these issues requires substantial effort and focus by government.

    Lastly, we examine the opinion polls regarding the Voice to Parliament initiative. While some polls suggest a decline in support for the initiative, others indicate that support remains around 60 per vent, creating a confusing picture. The Voice to Parliament is an important aspiration for First Nations people in Australia, but the debate surrounding the referendum has become toxic, with conservative groups disseminating misinformation to undermine its success. Beneath these layers of deception, the underlying reason for this strategy is a disturbing undercurrent of racism that is becoming more overt and brazen.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54460299Fri, 16 Jun 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsWe should never underestimate the lengths to which the Liberal Party will go, or how low they will stoop, in order to gain a political advantage. This was evident in one of the most distressing weeks in federal Parliament in a long time: they...
    We also address the issue of housing affordability in Australia and speak with Cathy Callaghan, senior policy officer at Shelter NSW, who provides an overview of the various aspects of housing policy that need attention in order to achieve a sustainable and equitable housing sector in the future. Housing has been neglected by successive governments over the past 30 years, with social and public housing largely left to the private sector, which is a significant reason why we are facing the problems we have today. Resolving these issues requires substantial effort and focus by government.

    Lastly, we examine the opinion polls regarding the Voice to Parliament initiative. While some polls suggest a decline in support for the initiative, others indicate that support remains around 60 per vent, creating a confusing picture. The Voice to Parliament is an important aspiration for First Nations people in Australia, but the debate surrounding the referendum has become toxic, with conservative groups disseminating misinformation to undermine its success. Beneath these layers of deception, the underlying reason for this strategy is a disturbing undercurrent of racism that is becoming more overt and brazen.]]>    3585auspol,katygallagher,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Roberts-Smith, wasted billions, Senator Hanson-Young and News Corp inquiry, and ending HECS debtshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/roberts-smith-wasted-billions-senator-hanson-young-and-news-corp-inquiry-and-ending-hecs-debts--54147253Ben Roberts-Smith defamation case, which confirmed the truth behind shocking allegations, including civilian murders in Afghanistan and disturbing behaviour towards a woman.

    Shining a light on government actions, we discuss revelations of the former Morrison government misspending $2 billion in health funding programs, exposing a pattern of poor guidelines and politically motivated grants. These unethical practices continue to provide material for the National Anti-Corruption Commission, adding to the Morrison government’s list of possibly illegal behavior.

    Another major development is the official interest rate rise, reaching the highest rate since 2012. Amidst the blame game, we explore various factors contributing to this economic challenge and emphasise the government’s responsibility to address the problem.

    In Western Australia, we highlight the controversial decision to award Gina Rinehart as Western Australian of the Year, questioning the selection criteria that favour wealthy businesspeople over community champions and unsung heroes.

    Our attention then shifts to the ongoing push for an inquiry into the Murdoch media empire in Australia, a long-overdue inquiry to examine the influence of News Corporation, which we believe has become a cancerous force in the media and political landscape.

    To provide insight, we interview Australian Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, who shares her perspective on an inquiry and its potential to improve media behaviour in Australia.

    Finally, we address the contentious issue of growing HECS debts, a scheme implemented in 1990. We explore the impact of increased inflation rates on HECS debts, and the need for fundamental reform of the university and higher education sector, highlighting the broader community benefits that education brings.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54147253Fri, 09 Jun 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we delve into the significant events that have unfolded in the political landscape during the week. We start with the explosive findings from the Ben Roberts-Smith defamation case, which confirmed the truth behind shocking...Ben Roberts-Smith defamation case, which confirmed the truth behind shocking allegations, including civilian murders in Afghanistan and disturbing behaviour towards a woman.

    Shining a light on government actions, we discuss revelations of the former Morrison government misspending $2 billion in health funding programs, exposing a pattern of poor guidelines and politically motivated grants. These unethical practices continue to provide material for the National Anti-Corruption Commission, adding to the Morrison government’s list of possibly illegal behavior.

    Another major development is the official interest rate rise, reaching the highest rate since 2012. Amidst the blame game, we explore various factors contributing to this economic challenge and emphasise the government’s responsibility to address the problem.

    In Western Australia, we highlight the controversial decision to award Gina Rinehart as Western Australian of the Year, questioning the selection criteria that favour wealthy businesspeople over community champions and unsung heroes.

    Our attention then shifts to the ongoing push for an inquiry into the Murdoch media empire in Australia, a long-overdue inquiry to examine the influence of News Corporation, which we believe has become a cancerous force in the media and political landscape.

    To provide insight, we interview Australian Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young, who shares her perspective on an inquiry and its potential to improve media behaviour in Australia.

    Finally, we address the contentious issue of growing HECS debts, a scheme implemented in 1990. We explore the impact of increased inflation rates on HECS debts, and the need for fundamental reform of the university and higher education sector, highlighting the broader community benefits that education brings.]]>    3155auspol,hecs,murdochroyalcommissionfalsefull    Goodbye McGowan, the PwC scandal, and the conservative attacks on the Voice to Parliamenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/goodbye-mcgowan-the-pwc-scandal-and-the-conservative-attacks-on-the-voice-to-parliament--54073561
    Mark McGowan, has stepped down as the Premier of Western Australia after six years in office. Citing exhaustion and a lack of energy to effectively continue in his role, McGowan concluded his resignation speech, marking the end of an influential and highly successful career.

    The a prominent consulting firm PwC – one of the ‘Big Four’ – has faced intense scrutiny for leaking confidential information from the Australian Taxation Office to its international clients, revealing plans by the Australian Government regarding multinational corporations tax and corporate law changes. There are suggestions that the released information represents just the tip of the iceberg, with other consulting firms likely to be implicated. This situation raises significant concerns about government outsourcing, particularly given the staggering $21 billion spent on consultants and outsourcing in the final year of the previous Coalition government. This figure is equivalent to 54,000 full-time staff or 37 per cent of the entire federal government public service. While the current Labor government aims to reduce this spending, the existence of ongoing contracts and the need for specific expertise pose challenges in immediate reduction.

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been actively promoting the Voice to Parliament: during his speech in Adelaide, he emphasised the potential of the Voice the Parliament as a moment of national idealism, and an opportunity to surpass the achievements of the 1967 referendum. However, there is a major difference between the 1967 referendum and the Voice to Parliament. The Liberal Party’s nature has evolved from a liberal stance in the 1960s to a more reactionary conservative party today and mobilising fear, loathing, and hatred is easier now than in the past, and it was always inevitable that the federal Liberal Party was not going to support the Voice to Parliament – they declared their support for the “no” campaign, even before the legislation reached Parliament.

    The Liberal Party misrepresents information, spreads lies, and continuously demands more details: they accuse Anthony Albanese of being secretive about the Voice to Parliament, attempting to cultivate a racist vote across Australia. These bad faith actors show no intention of supporting positive change for Indigenous Australia, despite having had nine years to address the very issues they complain about.

    While some have criticised Albanese for lacking courage and being slow in implementing reforms, these criticisms should not apply to the Voice to Parliament. It aligns precisely with the demands of Indigenous people. Indigenous issues do not garner significant electoral support in Australian politics, and the Labor government will possibly lose votes on the Voice to Parliament. But, it’s the right thing to do. Despite this, it just highlights the difficulty of convincing the rest of Australia to support initiatives that positively affect Indigenous people amidst conservative antagonism. #auspol #VoiceToParliament]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54073561Fri, 02 Jun 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we discuss the recent resignation of Mark McGowan as Premier of Western Australia; examine the controversy surrounding PwC’s leak of secret information from the Australian Taxation Office; and delve into the issue of conservative...
    Mark McGowan, has stepped down as the Premier of Western Australia after six years in office. Citing exhaustion and a lack of energy to effectively continue in his role, McGowan concluded his resignation speech, marking the end of an influential and highly successful career.

    The a prominent consulting firm PwC – one of the ‘Big Four’ – has faced intense scrutiny for leaking confidential information from the Australian Taxation Office to its international clients, revealing plans by the Australian Government regarding multinational corporations tax and corporate law changes. There are suggestions that the released information represents just the tip of the iceberg, with other consulting firms likely to be implicated. This situation raises significant concerns about government outsourcing, particularly given the staggering $21 billion spent on consultants and outsourcing in the final year of the previous Coalition government. This figure is equivalent to 54,000 full-time staff or 37 per cent of the entire federal government public service. While the current Labor government aims to reduce this spending, the existence of ongoing contracts and the need for specific expertise pose challenges in immediate reduction.

    Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been actively promoting the Voice to Parliament: during his speech in Adelaide, he emphasised the potential of the Voice the Parliament as a moment of national idealism, and an opportunity to surpass the achievements of the 1967 referendum. However, there is a major difference between the 1967 referendum and the Voice to Parliament. The Liberal Party’s nature has evolved from a liberal stance in the 1960s to a more reactionary conservative party today and mobilising fear, loathing, and hatred is easier now than in the past, and it was always inevitable that the federal Liberal Party was not going to support the Voice to Parliament – they declared their support for the “no” campaign, even before the legislation reached Parliament.

    The Liberal Party misrepresents information, spreads lies, and continuously demands more details: they accuse Anthony Albanese of being secretive about the Voice to Parliament, attempting to cultivate a racist vote across Australia. These bad faith actors show no intention of supporting positive change for Indigenous Australia, despite having had nine years to address the very issues they complain about.

    While some have criticised Albanese for lacking courage and being slow in implementing reforms, these criticisms should not apply to the Voice to Parliament. It aligns precisely with the demands of Indigenous people. Indigenous issues do not garner significant electoral support in Australian politics, and the Labor government will possibly lose votes on the Voice to Parliament. But, it’s the right thing to do. Despite this, it just highlights the difficulty of convincing the rest of Australia to support initiatives that positively affect Indigenous people amidst conservative antagonism. #auspol #VoiceToParliament]]>    3184auspol,pwc,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Racism in the media, free Julian Assange, Australia–India relations and human rights, and the Voice To Parliamenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/racism-in-the-media-free-julian-assange-australia-india-relations-and-human-rights-and-the-voice-to-parliament--54006719
    The media industry as a whole is criticised for its lack of diversity, with most outlets being predominantly white and middle-class. While some media organisations pay lip service to addressing these issues, others, like News Corporation, display outright hostility. Social media platforms also contribute to the problem. Despite discussions about the need for change and improvement, little action has been taken to rectify the situation. Whether the media reflects broader society or merely perpetuates its own biases remains a contentious question, but it is clear that without implementing meaningful changes, the situation will remain unchanged.

    We also focus on the ongoing case of Julian Assange – Stella Assange, a human rights defender has been advocating for his release. Julian Assange has been imprisoned in London’s Belmarsh Prison since 2019 and despite extensive diplomatic efforts by both the Coalition and Labor governments, it has become evident that soft diplomacy alone will not secure his freedom. Forty-eight Australian MPs and Senators, as well as media associations worldwide, have called for an end to Assange’s pursuit and his release. The continued incarceration of Assange serves no real purpose.

    We explore the recent meeting between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The purpose of the meeting was to strengthen trade ties between the two countries and discuss the development of a green hydrogen program and had been scheduled as part of the cancelled Quad meeting. The Australia–India relationship holds significant importance due to the large population of Indian heritage in Australia and India’s projected economic growth. However, just as human rights concerns are raised regarding China, a similar discussion needs to take place regarding India. Modi, a popular and nationalistic leader, enjoys considerable support among the Indian community in Australia but it is essential that these issues are raised.

    Lastly, we touch upon the ongoing discussion surrounding the Voice To Parliament initiative. Despite being in opposition, figures such as Peter Dutton, Sussan Ley, and David Littleproud continue to receive media platforms as if they were part of the government. This raises concerns about the impartiality and balance in media coverage.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54006719Fri, 26 May 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we delve into the persistent issue of racism in the media, particularly focusing on the recent departure of ABC journalist Stan Grant. Grant faced a barrage of racist abuse after his presentation on the effects of colonisation during...
    The media industry as a whole is criticised for its lack of diversity, with most outlets being predominantly white and middle-class. While some media organisations pay lip service to addressing these issues, others, like News Corporation, display outright hostility. Social media platforms also contribute to the problem. Despite discussions about the need for change and improvement, little action has been taken to rectify the situation. Whether the media reflects broader society or merely perpetuates its own biases remains a contentious question, but it is clear that without implementing meaningful changes, the situation will remain unchanged.

    We also focus on the ongoing case of Julian Assange – Stella Assange, a human rights defender has been advocating for his release. Julian Assange has been imprisoned in London’s Belmarsh Prison since 2019 and despite extensive diplomatic efforts by both the Coalition and Labor governments, it has become evident that soft diplomacy alone will not secure his freedom. Forty-eight Australian MPs and Senators, as well as media associations worldwide, have called for an end to Assange’s pursuit and his release. The continued incarceration of Assange serves no real purpose.

    We explore the recent meeting between Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The purpose of the meeting was to strengthen trade ties between the two countries and discuss the development of a green hydrogen program and had been scheduled as part of the cancelled Quad meeting. The Australia–India relationship holds significant importance due to the large population of Indian heritage in Australia and India’s projected economic growth. However, just as human rights concerns are raised regarding China, a similar discussion needs to take place regarding India. Modi, a popular and nationalistic leader, enjoys considerable support among the Indian community in Australia but it is essential that these issues are raised.

    Lastly, we touch upon the ongoing discussion surrounding the Voice To Parliament initiative. Despite being in opposition, figures such as Peter Dutton, Sussan Ley, and David Littleproud continue to receive media platforms as if they were part of the government. This raises concerns about the impartiality and balance in media coverage.]]>    3004auspol,freeassange,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Labor’s first year, the housing crisis and the fall of the final Liberal dominohttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/labor-s-first-year-the-housing-crisis-and-the-fall-of-the-final-liberal-domino--53928699
    The Labor government has been in office for a year and there are suggestions that it’s the best first year of government since Bob Hawke’s first year between 1983–84. When Labor won the election in May 2022, they promised eight key priorities for government, which they’ve made substantial work in – except for climate change policy – but being in government isn't just all about achieving the promises – there's unexpected issues that have to be dealt with – inflation issues, cost of living pressures, energy prices – and these have caused political problems for the government. There’s still far to go with many of these issues, especially on climate change policy and economic reform but it’s been a year that the Labor government would be quite satisfied with.

    Housing is becoming a big issue in federal politics and the issue is right across the board – cost of housing, mortgages, rents at a time of the tightest rental market in history. Many people are homeless, and there’s not enough social housing. There have been calls for the federal government to do a lot more than what they’re doing at the moment – although most of the government’s around Australia are Labor at the moment, each state and territory government has its own housing policies, with different political pressures and vested interests in each of those states and territories. There are many solutions available but defining the problem is the key issue – housing has been at the whim of governments doing whatever they need to do to get a political advantage out of it and there needs to be an overarching direction coming in from the federal government.

    There were three opinion polls during the week, all showing strong support for both the Prime Minister and the Labor government. While there was polling suggesting disappointment with the budget for not doing as much as it could have, the Labor government has increased its support in opinion polls. But politics can change very quickly: the Rudd government was in a very similar position a year into its term – 55–45% in two-party preferred voting – and at the time, the opposition was in a complete mess under the leadership of Brendan Nelson and then Malcolm Turnbull. But 18 months later, Rudd was gone as prime minister and the Liberal Party almost won the 2010 federal election under Tony Abbott. It’s good times for the Labor government at the moment but those good times won’t last forever.

    There’s always unexpected problems for any government and the last Liberal government in Australia has lost its majority and it’s now governing in minority, due to two Liberal MPs resigning in protest over a AFL stadium deal in Hobart, due to cost $715 million – at a time when Tasmania is facing extreme housing shortages and homelessness. The Tasmanian Liberal government seemed to be in a relatively secure place. In the 2021 Tasmania election – the only election won by the Liberal Party since 2019 – they received 49% of the vote, to 28% for the Labor Party and 20% to the Tasmania Greens. But they only had a bare majority of one seat – 13 of the 25 seats – and with the loss of those two Liberal MPs, they’re in minority now. It’s not looking very good for the last Liberal government in Australia. The big lesson for the federal government and the Prime Minister is that a secure government can become very insecure, very quickly and is always just one or two bad decisions from a self-made disaster. #auspol #Newspoll]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53928699Fri, 19 May 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode: we look at the first year of the federal Labor government; what can be done about the many housing issues across Australia?; the latest opinion polls; and the last Liberal government in the village is in a lot of trouble. The Labor...
    The Labor government has been in office for a year and there are suggestions that it’s the best first year of government since Bob Hawke’s first year between 1983–84. When Labor won the election in May 2022, they promised eight key priorities for government, which they’ve made substantial work in – except for climate change policy – but being in government isn't just all about achieving the promises – there's unexpected issues that have to be dealt with – inflation issues, cost of living pressures, energy prices – and these have caused political problems for the government. There’s still far to go with many of these issues, especially on climate change policy and economic reform but it’s been a year that the Labor government would be quite satisfied with.

    Housing is becoming a big issue in federal politics and the issue is right across the board – cost of housing, mortgages, rents at a time of the tightest rental market in history. Many people are homeless, and there’s not enough social housing. There have been calls for the federal government to do a lot more than what they’re doing at the moment – although most of the government’s around Australia are Labor at the moment, each state and territory government has its own housing policies, with different political pressures and vested interests in each of those states and territories. There are many solutions available but defining the problem is the key issue – housing has been at the whim of governments doing whatever they need to do to get a political advantage out of it and there needs to be an overarching direction coming in from the federal government.

    There were three opinion polls during the week, all showing strong support for both the Prime Minister and the Labor government. While there was polling suggesting disappointment with the budget for not doing as much as it could have, the Labor government has increased its support in opinion polls. But politics can change very quickly: the Rudd government was in a very similar position a year into its term – 55–45% in two-party preferred voting – and at the time, the opposition was in a complete mess under the leadership of Brendan Nelson and then Malcolm Turnbull. But 18 months later, Rudd was gone as prime minister and the Liberal Party almost won the 2010 federal election under Tony Abbott. It’s good times for the Labor government at the moment but those good times won’t last forever.

    There’s always unexpected problems for any government and the last Liberal government in Australia has lost its majority and it’s now governing in minority, due to two Liberal MPs resigning in protest over a AFL stadium deal in Hobart, due to cost $715 million – at a time when Tasmania is facing extreme housing shortages and homelessness. The Tasmanian Liberal government seemed to be in a relatively secure place. In the 2021 Tasmania election – the only election won by the Liberal Party since 2019 – they received 49% of the vote, to 28% for the Labor Party and 20% to the Tasmania Greens. But they only had a bare majority of one seat – 13 of the 25 seats – and with the loss of those two Liberal MPs, they’re in minority now. It’s not looking very good for the last Liberal government in Australia. The big lesson for the federal government and the Prime Minister is that a secure government can become very insecure, very quickly and is always just one or two bad decisions from a self-made disaster. #auspol #Newspoll]]>    2699auspol,newspollfalsefull    The big serious Budget analysis and overpaid CEOshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-big-serious-budget-analysis-and-overpaid-ceos--53831212
    The Budget was released by the Treasurer Jim Chalmers, and Budgets always contain a strong political dimension that goes way past any balance sheets and figures that exist on the Budget pages. This Budget is a combination of the Labor government doing what they said that they would do during the 2022 federal election campaign: a cautious approach – probably being a little bit far too cautious – but they’ve directed funding towards some of those areas that were causing political problems – the single parent payment has been continued from when the youngest child turns eight to when the youngest child turns 14. Jobseeker payments have been increased by $20 per week – better than nothing, but it’s still short of what's needed. The Budget is also notable for what’s not in there: there was meant to be a greater source of revenue for mining and there was a substantial increase in iron ore revenues over the last year. The petroleum resources, rent tax was meant to have been improved substantially but it’s only going to raise $2.4 billion over the next four years. But the biggest political aspect of the budget is a predicted $4 billion surplus. It’s cold comfort for the people at the lower end of the scale, who were hoping to receive more support. Despite these issues, it is a Budget that offers a good starting point for the future, rather than offering any substantial reform.

    The CEO of Qantas Alan Joyce will leave his position in November, and during his 15 year term, he's earned over $125 million, while Qantas made cumulative losses of $1.9 billion. There is a perception that CEOs in Australia are overpaid, and especially at a time when wages have stagnated over the past decade. In the case of Qantas, there's been an attack on workplace rights – they sacked 6,000 workers in 2020; it also grounded its entire fleet in 2011, and service quality has deteriorated over the past three years. Joyce hasn’t represented value for money for Qantas and is it the case where CEOs in Australia are being overpaid? Dr. Rebecca Bachmann from Macquarie University outlines some of the issues surrounding transparency and remunerations.

    There was also a Budget reply from the Opposition leader, Peter Dutton, which didn’t seem to have much to say except for a continuation of the Morrison–Abbott–Howard philosophy of lower taxes, lower immigration, small government, complaining about the Labor government not being able to deliver surpluses in the future – despite the fact that a surplus has just been delivered. It’s a message for the electorate of yesteryear, and the world has moved on.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53831212Fri, 12 May 2023 22:00:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode: the Budget 2023 announcement and our expert analysis… are CEOs in Australia paid too much? We speak to Rebecca Bachmann about this issue … and when there's a Budget, there's also a Budget Reply, we look at what the Opposition has got...
    The Budget was released by the Treasurer Jim Chalmers, and Budgets always contain a strong political dimension that goes way past any balance sheets and figures that exist on the Budget pages. This Budget is a combination of the Labor government doing what they said that they would do during the 2022 federal election campaign: a cautious approach – probably being a little bit far too cautious – but they’ve directed funding towards some of those areas that were causing political problems – the single parent payment has been continued from when the youngest child turns eight to when the youngest child turns 14. Jobseeker payments have been increased by $20 per week – better than nothing, but it’s still short of what's needed. The Budget is also notable for what’s not in there: there was meant to be a greater source of revenue for mining and there was a substantial increase in iron ore revenues over the last year. The petroleum resources, rent tax was meant to have been improved substantially but it’s only going to raise $2.4 billion over the next four years. But the biggest political aspect of the budget is a predicted $4 billion surplus. It’s cold comfort for the people at the lower end of the scale, who were hoping to receive more support. Despite these issues, it is a Budget that offers a good starting point for the future, rather than offering any substantial reform.

    The CEO of Qantas Alan Joyce will leave his position in November, and during his 15 year term, he's earned over $125 million, while Qantas made cumulative losses of $1.9 billion. There is a perception that CEOs in Australia are overpaid, and especially at a time when wages have stagnated over the past decade. In the case of Qantas, there's been an attack on workplace rights – they sacked 6,000 workers in 2020; it also grounded its entire fleet in 2011, and service quality has deteriorated over the past three years. Joyce hasn’t represented value for money for Qantas and is it the case where CEOs in Australia are being overpaid? Dr. Rebecca Bachmann from Macquarie University outlines some of the issues surrounding transparency and remunerations.

    There was also a Budget reply from the Opposition leader, Peter Dutton, which didn’t seem to have much to say except for a continuation of the Morrison–Abbott–Howard philosophy of lower taxes, lower immigration, small government, complaining about the Labor government not being able to deliver surpluses in the future – despite the fact that a surplus has just been delivered. It’s a message for the electorate of yesteryear, and the world has moved on.]]>    2920auspol,budget2023,qantasfalsefull    Goodbye Scomo, Albanese’s new friend, the Coronation yawn-fest, and a new Liberal party?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/goodbye-scomo-albanese-s-new-friend-the-coronation-yawn-fest-and-a-new-liberal-party--53749228
    The former Prime Minister Scott Morrison is on the verge of leaving politics – or so we're told. We’re heard this story before, so it’s a never-ending speculation. Morrison has been linked to “a number” of defence corporations in Britain, keen to employ him in an AUKUS-related position, but there are no names attached to the sources, so the source of these reports could actually be Morrison himself. There are many people who would like Morrison to leave Parliament as soon as possible and never be heard of again but it also brings up the question of the working life of ministers after they leave Parliament, and whether it's in Australia's national interest.

    The Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attended the wedding of Kyle Sandilands and Tegan Kynaston and resulted in a few protests, mainly along partisan lines. Kyle Sandilands is one of the most offensive people on radio but being the prime minister is about trying to appeal to as many people as possible. Sandilands does have a massive audience – the ‘Kyle and Jackie O Show’ is the leading morning program in Sydney with almost 200,000 listeners every day, so being on good terms with a major media personality does have its political benefits for the Prime Minister even if it’s probably more to the benefit of Sandilands, rather than Albanese.

    There doesn't seem to be too much interest in the UK Coronation event so far: the Prime Minister is already in London and has met the King, and he'll be attending the Coronation – it would have been more appropriate for the Governor–General to attend. Of course, a republican Prime Minister of Australia needs to be polite and say the right words, but the sooner the country gives a Scottish-styled response to the Royal Family and moves towards a republic, the better.

    The idea of politics of the centre-right going through a reformation is starting to take hold, with more academic material being published about this concept. The last time this happened was with the formation of the Liberal Party in 1944 – it is far easier to work with what you've got, and it has to be remembered that there were suggestions after the Labor Party lost their fourth consecutive federal election in 2004, it should disband and reform in a totally different way – only for the party to go on and win the 2007 federal election. A political party can never be written off but if the creation of a new major political party is ever going to happen, this is the most favourable time.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53749228Fri, 05 May 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode: will he stay, or will he go? The future of Scott Morrison in Parliament; the company a prime minister should keep; forget about the Coronation, the move to a republic needs to start now; and how soon before we see a new major...
    The former Prime Minister Scott Morrison is on the verge of leaving politics – or so we're told. We’re heard this story before, so it’s a never-ending speculation. Morrison has been linked to “a number” of defence corporations in Britain, keen to employ him in an AUKUS-related position, but there are no names attached to the sources, so the source of these reports could actually be Morrison himself. There are many people who would like Morrison to leave Parliament as soon as possible and never be heard of again but it also brings up the question of the working life of ministers after they leave Parliament, and whether it's in Australia's national interest.

    The Prime Minister Anthony Albanese attended the wedding of Kyle Sandilands and Tegan Kynaston and resulted in a few protests, mainly along partisan lines. Kyle Sandilands is one of the most offensive people on radio but being the prime minister is about trying to appeal to as many people as possible. Sandilands does have a massive audience – the ‘Kyle and Jackie O Show’ is the leading morning program in Sydney with almost 200,000 listeners every day, so being on good terms with a major media personality does have its political benefits for the Prime Minister even if it’s probably more to the benefit of Sandilands, rather than Albanese.

    There doesn't seem to be too much interest in the UK Coronation event so far: the Prime Minister is already in London and has met the King, and he'll be attending the Coronation – it would have been more appropriate for the Governor–General to attend. Of course, a republican Prime Minister of Australia needs to be polite and say the right words, but the sooner the country gives a Scottish-styled response to the Royal Family and moves towards a republic, the better.

    The idea of politics of the centre-right going through a reformation is starting to take hold, with more academic material being published about this concept. The last time this happened was with the formation of the Liberal Party in 1944 – it is far easier to work with what you've got, and it has to be remembered that there were suggestions after the Labor Party lost their fourth consecutive federal election in 2004, it should disband and reform in a totally different way – only for the party to go on and win the 2007 federal election. A political party can never be written off but if the creation of a new major political party is ever going to happen, this is the most favourable time.
    ]]>    2761auspol,coronationfalsefull    Murdoch’s end, wasteful defence spending, nothing for Jobseeker, and the No-alitionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/murdoch-s-end-wasteful-defence-spending-nothing-for-jobseeker-and-the-no-alition--53675057
    ANZAC Day was held this week and what better way to commemorate this than the federal government announcing an extra $19 billion as part of the review of the Australian Defence Force. The military industry is like a beast that keeps needing to be fed: there will also be an additional $42 billion spent on defence over the next decade, and it’s an area that rarely receives the same cutbacks that apply to virtually every other sector in the community – all the defence department has to do in Australia is ramp up the fear on China and every dollar that they ask for will be given. National security and defence spending are important issues that every country in the world needs to consider and take on seriously but, sometimes in Australia, these matters force every other issue onto the backburner.

    There’s two defamation cases concerning News Corporation – they've had different outcomes, but have a similar message: News Corporation is a diminishing influence and overstretched itself as a right wing propaganda unit and is now paying the price. In the United States, News Corporation settled a defamation case with Dominion Voting Systems for $US797 million – a quarter of its cash reserves – and it’s a punishment for spreading the lies about the 2020 presidential election being rigged and stolen from President Donald Trump and the Republican Party. In Australia, Lachlan Murdoch has dropped his defamation case against Crikey News, claiming that he didn't want to give Crikey any more publicity. Up until recently, News Corporation would have doubled down, poured more money into litigation costs and defending itself. But this time, it has given up without much of a fight. This is a humiliation of one of the biggest news media companies in history and it could also be the beginning of the end of News Corporation as well.

    A Newspoll was released last week and, as predicted, the news is getting worse for the Coalition, with a confirmation of the poor standing of the Coalition and the Leader of the Opposition, Peter Dutton. This can provide an opportunity for change for a political party to understand that everything is not currently working, and doing politics differently might be a better option. But the Liberal Party is not for changing and hasn’t understood that opposition for the sake of opposition doesn't work anymore. And with a change in demographics and voting patterns, they might be out of office for a long time. This change isn’t good news for the Labor Party either, and there are suggestions that this could be the last majority government – from either side of government – and the future will be based around coalitions of common political interests.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53675057Fri, 28 Apr 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode: a boost in military spending, but what does it mean for funding of other important areas; The Dominion case in the United States is the beginning of the end of News Corporation; And the continuing federal “No-alition”: is it a recipe...
    ANZAC Day was held this week and what better way to commemorate this than the federal government announcing an extra $19 billion as part of the review of the Australian Defence Force. The military industry is like a beast that keeps needing to be fed: there will also be an additional $42 billion spent on defence over the next decade, and it’s an area that rarely receives the same cutbacks that apply to virtually every other sector in the community – all the defence department has to do in Australia is ramp up the fear on China and every dollar that they ask for will be given. National security and defence spending are important issues that every country in the world needs to consider and take on seriously but, sometimes in Australia, these matters force every other issue onto the backburner.

    There’s two defamation cases concerning News Corporation – they've had different outcomes, but have a similar message: News Corporation is a diminishing influence and overstretched itself as a right wing propaganda unit and is now paying the price. In the United States, News Corporation settled a defamation case with Dominion Voting Systems for $US797 million – a quarter of its cash reserves – and it’s a punishment for spreading the lies about the 2020 presidential election being rigged and stolen from President Donald Trump and the Republican Party. In Australia, Lachlan Murdoch has dropped his defamation case against Crikey News, claiming that he didn't want to give Crikey any more publicity. Up until recently, News Corporation would have doubled down, poured more money into litigation costs and defending itself. But this time, it has given up without much of a fight. This is a humiliation of one of the biggest news media companies in history and it could also be the beginning of the end of News Corporation as well.

    A Newspoll was released last week and, as predicted, the news is getting worse for the Coalition, with a confirmation of the poor standing of the Coalition and the Leader of the Opposition, Peter Dutton. This can provide an opportunity for change for a political party to understand that everything is not currently working, and doing politics differently might be a better option. But the Liberal Party is not for changing and hasn’t understood that opposition for the sake of opposition doesn't work anymore. And with a change in demographics and voting patterns, they might be out of office for a long time. This change isn’t good news for the Labor Party either, and there are suggestions that this could be the last majority government – from either side of government – and the future will be based around coalitions of common political interests.]]>    2823auspol,budget2023,newscorp,raisetheratefalsefull    Raise the rate! NDIS, the pre-Budget lull and Dutton's LNP tanking in the pollshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/raise-the-rate-ndis-the-pre-budget-lull-and-dutton-s-lnp-tanking-in-the-polls--53602205
    There’s been a build-up to the Budget which will be announced on 9 May, it’s at the final stages of development and still working out what will be palatable at this point of the political cycle, and what’s in the interests of the Australian community and the economy.

    There’s a wide range of budget issues coming into focus – the cost of the AUKUS deal with the United States and Britain; the amount allocated towards social housing; and there’s also the debate about whether the Stage 3 tax cuts should proceed, even though they won’t commence until 1 July 2024 – there’s also the cost of Medicare and raising the rate of Jobseeker payments – a standard ‘bread and butter’ Labor issue that many in the community are finding it difficult to understand why the government is being so recalcitrant about.

    The focus of attention of the week has been on the NDIS, which Bill Shorten promises to reboot and reform after the previous Coalition government mismanaged the program during its term in office. It is a costly program, but it’s an essential program – but the Budget announcement will confirm if the dollars are going to be matched up with the rhetoric.

    There are new opinion polls, and they provide bad news for Peter Dutton, and good news for the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese. Sometimes, a prime minister can be made to look good because of a weak opposition leader – but the flipside is that an Opposition can be made to look even worse because of a competent government – in this case, it’s probably a combination of the two – but despite all attempts by the mainstream media to boost his stocks, the polling for Dutton has reached his lowest level, and it just keeps getting worse and worse for the Liberal Party.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53602205Fri, 21 Apr 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode: rebooting the National Disability Insurance Scheme; the build-up to the federal Budget; and the latest opinion polls – good news for the Prime Minister; bad news for the Opposition leader. There’s been a build-up to the Budget which...
    There’s been a build-up to the Budget which will be announced on 9 May, it’s at the final stages of development and still working out what will be palatable at this point of the political cycle, and what’s in the interests of the Australian community and the economy.

    There’s a wide range of budget issues coming into focus – the cost of the AUKUS deal with the United States and Britain; the amount allocated towards social housing; and there’s also the debate about whether the Stage 3 tax cuts should proceed, even though they won’t commence until 1 July 2024 – there’s also the cost of Medicare and raising the rate of Jobseeker payments – a standard ‘bread and butter’ Labor issue that many in the community are finding it difficult to understand why the government is being so recalcitrant about.

    The focus of attention of the week has been on the NDIS, which Bill Shorten promises to reboot and reform after the previous Coalition government mismanaged the program during its term in office. It is a costly program, but it’s an essential program – but the Budget announcement will confirm if the dollars are going to be matched up with the rhetoric.

    There are new opinion polls, and they provide bad news for Peter Dutton, and good news for the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese. Sometimes, a prime minister can be made to look good because of a weak opposition leader – but the flipside is that an Opposition can be made to look even worse because of a competent government – in this case, it’s probably a combination of the two – but despite all attempts by the mainstream media to boost his stocks, the polling for Dutton has reached his lowest level, and it just keeps getting worse and worse for the Liberal Party.]]>    2712auspol,budget2023,raisetheratefalsefull    He’s not a monster! Dutton’s conservative nightmares continue and the Inland Rail disasterhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/he-s-not-a-monster-dutton-s-conservative-nightmares-continue-and-the-inland-rail-disaster--53532867
    After a short and sustained period of criticism about his role in the Liberal Party's leadership ‘no’ vote for the Voice to Parliament. Julian Leeser has resigned from Shadow Cabinet and has now said that he will campaign for the ‘yes’ case. This will place more pressure on the leadership of Peter Dutton and add to the debate about the future of the Liberal Party. But Lesser said he wants to make amendments to what has already been proposed in the referendum; he also didn’t end up repudiating any of Dutton's claims that the Voice to Parliament will end up costing billions of dollars to implement and it will grind the government to a halt, so it’s difficult to discern – at this stage – what Leeser’s true motivations are.

    When he became the leader of the Liberal Party, Dutton said his job after the 2022 federal election loss was “to unite the Liberal Party”, but with MPs resigning from Shadow Cabinet, former Liberal Party MPs resigning from the party, and backbenchers speaking out, it’s far from a united party and it’s a political mess that keeps being pulled down by internal conservative forces.

    It was also revealed during the week that the cost of the Inland Rail Project has doubled within two years and has increased from $16 billion, up to $31 billion. The Inland Rail Project commenced in 2018 and is proposed to operate between Brisbane and Melbourne and was one of Barnaby Joyce’s pet projects when he was the deputy prime minister and the Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development. There were also claims that he was trying to fasts-track this Inland Rail Project and change the path of the project so it would run closer to the land that he owns near Narrabri – 1,000 hectares of land, which no one in their right mind would buy unless they knew of a future government project that was in development. Where there’s corruption – or alleged corruption – Joyce is never too far behind, and his time in politics should be close to an end.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53532867Fri, 14 Apr 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, another resignation in the Liberal Party, and are there more to follow? And the cost blowout in the Inland Rail Project is yet another example of why Barnaby Joyce should leave politics. After a short and sustained period of...
    After a short and sustained period of criticism about his role in the Liberal Party's leadership ‘no’ vote for the Voice to Parliament. Julian Leeser has resigned from Shadow Cabinet and has now said that he will campaign for the ‘yes’ case. This will place more pressure on the leadership of Peter Dutton and add to the debate about the future of the Liberal Party. But Lesser said he wants to make amendments to what has already been proposed in the referendum; he also didn’t end up repudiating any of Dutton's claims that the Voice to Parliament will end up costing billions of dollars to implement and it will grind the government to a halt, so it’s difficult to discern – at this stage – what Leeser’s true motivations are.

    When he became the leader of the Liberal Party, Dutton said his job after the 2022 federal election loss was “to unite the Liberal Party”, but with MPs resigning from Shadow Cabinet, former Liberal Party MPs resigning from the party, and backbenchers speaking out, it’s far from a united party and it’s a political mess that keeps being pulled down by internal conservative forces.

    It was also revealed during the week that the cost of the Inland Rail Project has doubled within two years and has increased from $16 billion, up to $31 billion. The Inland Rail Project commenced in 2018 and is proposed to operate between Brisbane and Melbourne and was one of Barnaby Joyce’s pet projects when he was the deputy prime minister and the Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development. There were also claims that he was trying to fasts-track this Inland Rail Project and change the path of the project so it would run closer to the land that he owns near Narrabri – 1,000 hectares of land, which no one in their right mind would buy unless they knew of a future government project that was in development. Where there’s corruption – or alleged corruption – Joyce is never too far behind, and his time in politics should be close to an end.]]>    2486auspol,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Politics after Aston, a farewell to Yunupingu and the forever despicable Duttonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/politics-after-aston-a-farewell-to-yunupingu-and-the-forever-despicable-dutton--53468970
    The Aston byelection resulted in either a big win for the Labor Party or a big loss for the Liberal Party, depending on which perspective people wish to choose. Most of the analysis during the week has been on what went wrong for the Liberal Party, but the focus should be on what the Labor Party did right to win the seat. Byelections have many political issues that can be read into them – most of this analysis tends to be wrong – but the result in Aston seems like it’s an accurate reflection on what’s happening in federal politics at the moment: good news for the Labor government; bad news for the Liberal Party.

    Yunupingu died during the week, campaigner for Indigenous land rights for most of his life. He first came to prominence with the Gove Land Rights case in 1971, which gave rise to the Woodward Royal Commission, the Aboriginal Land Rights Act, which in turn gave rise to the Mabo decision in 1992. Yunupingu was a highly respected member of the Australian community. His legacy on reconciliation, treaty, Voice to Parliament, land rights: he created the signposts for the where Australia needs to go on these issues – there’s still some way to go on this – but Australia will finally get there, despite offensive opportunism of Peter Dutton and the Liberal–National Coalition: the small men of Australian politics.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53468970Fri, 07 Apr 2023 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode: the result of the Aston byelection – was it a big Labor victory or a bad loss for the Liberal Party?… and celebrating the life of Yunupingu: he was a great man of Australian political life. The work on the Voice to Parliament will...
    The Aston byelection resulted in either a big win for the Labor Party or a big loss for the Liberal Party, depending on which perspective people wish to choose. Most of the analysis during the week has been on what went wrong for the Liberal Party, but the focus should be on what the Labor Party did right to win the seat. Byelections have many political issues that can be read into them – most of this analysis tends to be wrong – but the result in Aston seems like it’s an accurate reflection on what’s happening in federal politics at the moment: good news for the Labor government; bad news for the Liberal Party.

    Yunupingu died during the week, campaigner for Indigenous land rights for most of his life. He first came to prominence with the Gove Land Rights case in 1971, which gave rise to the Woodward Royal Commission, the Aboriginal Land Rights Act, which in turn gave rise to the Mabo decision in 1992. Yunupingu was a highly respected member of the Australian community. His legacy on reconciliation, treaty, Voice to Parliament, land rights: he created the signposts for the where Australia needs to go on these issues – there’s still some way to go on this – but Australia will finally get there, despite offensive opportunism of Peter Dutton and the Liberal–National Coalition: the small men of Australian politics.
    ]]>    2466astonvotes,auspol,voicetoparliament,yunupingufalsefull    New Labor government, stopping a whistleblower case, social housing and the Aston byelectionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/new-labor-government-stopping-a-whistleblower-case-social-housing-and-the-aston-byelection--53399641
    There was a change of government in New South Wales last weekend and of the nine jurisdictions across Australia, there's only one Liberal Party government. Former Prime Minister John Howard suggested it's just a matter of time before the Liberal Party returns as a political force, but there are some very big long-term problems for the party, and not just in New South Wales.

    The case against whistleblower Richard Boyle is proceeding after the judge in the case decided that he's not immune from prosecution and the case should now proceed. The Labor government promised to clean up the whistleblower legislation and they still haven't done that. The Attorney–General Mark Dreyfus needs to act now and stop this case from going ahead any further.

    The Labor government’s social housing policy is on the backburner – it’s only 30,000 properties across Australia, it’s not enough and the Greens cannot support it. Jim Chalmers did suggest that it would offer a boost to the economy as well as address a serious housing supply issue but it doesn't look like it's going to be the panacea that he suggested. And this is the time to do this properly.

    The Australian Greens, the crossbench and the Coalition have created an inquiry into the Freedom of Information system – the Coalition virtually destroyed when they were in office and it’s a system that does need to be cleaned up.

    The Aston byelection on Saturday could be Peter Dutton’s last stand. Historically, it's a seat the Liberal Party should hold – they’ve held it for over 30 years. But when you look at much of the evidence at the moment, it's also a seat that Labor should win. There's a 2.8 per cent margin, the Liberal Party in Victoria is in disarray. And it's not looking very good for the Liberal Party who might be looking for a new leader after Saturday night.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53399641Fri, 31 Mar 2023 21:00:01 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode: a wrap up of the New South Wales election from last weekend, with the NSW Coalition ending their 12 years in office and the start of a NSW Labor government; the case against whistleblower Richard Boyle continues, but it needs to stop;...
    There was a change of government in New South Wales last weekend and of the nine jurisdictions across Australia, there's only one Liberal Party government. Former Prime Minister John Howard suggested it's just a matter of time before the Liberal Party returns as a political force, but there are some very big long-term problems for the party, and not just in New South Wales.

    The case against whistleblower Richard Boyle is proceeding after the judge in the case decided that he's not immune from prosecution and the case should now proceed. The Labor government promised to clean up the whistleblower legislation and they still haven't done that. The Attorney–General Mark Dreyfus needs to act now and stop this case from going ahead any further.

    The Labor government’s social housing policy is on the backburner – it’s only 30,000 properties across Australia, it’s not enough and the Greens cannot support it. Jim Chalmers did suggest that it would offer a boost to the economy as well as address a serious housing supply issue but it doesn't look like it's going to be the panacea that he suggested. And this is the time to do this properly.

    The Australian Greens, the crossbench and the Coalition have created an inquiry into the Freedom of Information system – the Coalition virtually destroyed when they were in office and it’s a system that does need to be cleaned up.

    The Aston byelection on Saturday could be Peter Dutton’s last stand. Historically, it's a seat the Liberal Party should hold – they’ve held it for over 30 years. But when you look at much of the evidence at the moment, it's also a seat that Labor should win. There's a 2.8 per cent margin, the Liberal Party in Victoria is in disarray. And it's not looking very good for the Liberal Party who might be looking for a new leader after Saturday night.]]>    2679astonvotes,auspol,foi,nswpolfalsefull    AUKUS, The Voice, anti-trans Nazis trouble and election time in NSWhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/aukus-the-voice-anti-trans-nazis-trouble-and-election-time-in-nsw--53323054
    Federal Parliament returned this week: There were the remnants of the AUKUS debate from last week, where after the complete support provider to the deal by the media, there have been more voices calling for more scrutiny on AUKUS, how much it's going to cost and what it actually means. And this is on the 20th anniversary of the invasion of Iraq, which was based on weapons of mass destruction that were never found. The lesson is: on national security, never believe what the government is telling the public and it’s best to get a second opinion.

    Neo-Nazis had been causing trouble again and this time it was the Nationalist Socialist Network who teamed up with the anti-trans rally organised by Moira Deeming, and Kellie Jay Keen-Minshull, who also goes by the name of “Posie Parker”. “Posie Parker” is a repulsive person and after mixing with the neo-Nazis in Melbourne, she went down to Hobart to organise another rally but was quickly shut down and hounded out of Tasmania. There’s no place for this kind of bigotry.

    Election day in New South Wales election and it hasn't captured the imagination of the public – and who is to blame for this is hard to say, whether it's the inane coverage by the media or whether it's because of the relative performances of the two main sides of politics. NSW Labor does have to win 11 additional seats to win a majority government – the Liberal–National Coalition is governing in a minority position and has to win two seats to form a majority. That's unlikely to happen. The more likely outcome is a Labor government in a minority position, but with a good chance of winning a majority. The NSW Government does deserve to be dismissed but it might also be a case where NSW Labor hasn't done enough to convince the electorate that it needs to be returned to office.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53323054Fri, 24 Mar 2023 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode: the week in federal politics; the AUKUS deal; the Voice to Parliament; and the safeguard mechanism for emissions control. The anti-trans agitators and Nazis getting an unwelcome reception all across Australia. And a final look at the...
    Federal Parliament returned this week: There were the remnants of the AUKUS debate from last week, where after the complete support provider to the deal by the media, there have been more voices calling for more scrutiny on AUKUS, how much it's going to cost and what it actually means. And this is on the 20th anniversary of the invasion of Iraq, which was based on weapons of mass destruction that were never found. The lesson is: on national security, never believe what the government is telling the public and it’s best to get a second opinion.

    Neo-Nazis had been causing trouble again and this time it was the Nationalist Socialist Network who teamed up with the anti-trans rally organised by Moira Deeming, and Kellie Jay Keen-Minshull, who also goes by the name of “Posie Parker”. “Posie Parker” is a repulsive person and after mixing with the neo-Nazis in Melbourne, she went down to Hobart to organise another rally but was quickly shut down and hounded out of Tasmania. There’s no place for this kind of bigotry.

    Election day in New South Wales election and it hasn't captured the imagination of the public – and who is to blame for this is hard to say, whether it's the inane coverage by the media or whether it's because of the relative performances of the two main sides of politics. NSW Labor does have to win 11 additional seats to win a majority government – the Liberal–National Coalition is governing in a minority position and has to win two seats to form a majority. That's unlikely to happen. The more likely outcome is a Labor government in a minority position, but with a good chance of winning a majority. The NSW Government does deserve to be dismissed but it might also be a case where NSW Labor hasn't done enough to convince the electorate that it needs to be returned to office.]]>    2695aukus,auspol,nswpol,trans,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Terrible AUKUS deal, NSW criminal corruption and media behaving badlyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/terrible-aukus-deal-nsw-criminal-corruption-and-media-behaving-badly--53232980
    Paul Keating also attacked this AUKUS deal – and we things he’s right – but instead of looking at the merit of what he had to say, the mainstream media decided that Keating was impolite to journalists. So, he can’t be taken seriously. Wow, these journalists are so upper-class, they don’t know what’s good for them: let them eat cake and we say – all the way with PJK.

    And we've been asked the question: why did the mainstream media avoid the Robodebt Royal Commission? Again, the answer to this is complex: dwindling advertising revenues, news editors and journalists who come from the upper echelons of society, so receiving a social security payment – or being forced to pay it back – is a totally foreign experience for them. That’s the long-term effect of journalism courses around Australia becoming stacked with graduates from private schools.

    And more corruption in New South Wales, this time there’s a recording of former NSW National Party leader John Barilaro bragging about his pork-barrelling adventures back in 2021. If only there was a decent mainstream media that has the courage to reveal these details on the eve of a NSW state election instead of delivering silence. If only…]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53232980Fri, 17 Mar 2023 21:00:03 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode, we look at the AUKUS deal and what it means for Australia. It looks like it’s a bad deal, so why did Albanese agree to it? It’s complicated. Paul Keating also attacked this AUKUS deal – and we things he’s right – but instead of...
    Paul Keating also attacked this AUKUS deal – and we things he’s right – but instead of looking at the merit of what he had to say, the mainstream media decided that Keating was impolite to journalists. So, he can’t be taken seriously. Wow, these journalists are so upper-class, they don’t know what’s good for them: let them eat cake and we say – all the way with PJK.

    And we've been asked the question: why did the mainstream media avoid the Robodebt Royal Commission? Again, the answer to this is complex: dwindling advertising revenues, news editors and journalists who come from the upper echelons of society, so receiving a social security payment – or being forced to pay it back – is a totally foreign experience for them. That’s the long-term effect of journalism courses around Australia becoming stacked with graduates from private schools.

    And more corruption in New South Wales, this time there’s a recording of former NSW National Party leader John Barilaro bragging about his pork-barrelling adventures back in 2021. If only there was a decent mainstream media that has the courage to reveal these details on the eve of a NSW state election instead of delivering silence. If only…]]>    2876aukus,auspol,nswpol,robodebtfalsefull    Liberals withering on a flagpole, corruption in NSW and a war with China?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/liberals-withering-on-a-flagpole-corruption-in-nsw-and-a-war-with-china--53157509
    Malcolm Turnbull appears at the Robodebt Royal Commission – with the same level of collective amnesia which afflicted many other witnesses – and there are also calls for Katherine Campbell to be sacked from the public service.

    A call for the takeover of Liberal Party branches by right-wing Christian groups needs to be resisted, otherwise that will be the end of the party.

    International Women’s Day didn’t have the dramas from the time of Scott Morrison, and we should be thankful for that.

    And is Dutton really facing a #Libspill? It’s in the interests of the Liberal Party to keep him there as a placeholder, but who’s next?

    The New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption finds that corrupt behaviour in New South Wales is not actually corrupt. John Barilaro landed the trade job that he created while he was a Minister in NSW Parliament, and wasn’t qualified for. But the ICAC ruled that it wasn’t corruption. And, by the way, where is the report into alleged corruptions by Gladys Berejiklian?

    And we are going to war with China in three years’ time, so we’ll need to order our military fatigues and start practising our commando techniques. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, of course – this would have to be among the more irresponsible and foolish journalism of recent years. And it’s racist as well. So, put the guns away, return the fatigues to sender: there will be not war with China.

    It’s all a media beat-up.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53157509Sat, 11 Mar 2023 01:03:02 +0000New PoliticsIn this episode… we look at the week in federal politics: the Liberal Party is in contortions over a tatty flag on top of Australian Parliament House (the important things) and wants to repeal the government’s popular superannuation tax – in the...
    Malcolm Turnbull appears at the Robodebt Royal Commission – with the same level of collective amnesia which afflicted many other witnesses – and there are also calls for Katherine Campbell to be sacked from the public service.

    A call for the takeover of Liberal Party branches by right-wing Christian groups needs to be resisted, otherwise that will be the end of the party.

    International Women’s Day didn’t have the dramas from the time of Scott Morrison, and we should be thankful for that.

    And is Dutton really facing a #Libspill? It’s in the interests of the Liberal Party to keep him there as a placeholder, but who’s next?

    The New South Wales Independent Commission Against Corruption finds that corrupt behaviour in New South Wales is not actually corrupt. John Barilaro landed the trade job that he created while he was a Minister in NSW Parliament, and wasn’t qualified for. But the ICAC ruled that it wasn’t corruption. And, by the way, where is the report into alleged corruptions by Gladys Berejiklian?

    And we are going to war with China in three years’ time, so we’ll need to order our military fatigues and start practising our commando techniques. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, of course – this would have to be among the more irresponsible and foolish journalism of recent years. And it’s racist as well. So, put the guns away, return the fatigues to sender: there will be not war with China.

    It’s all a media beat-up.]]>    2599auspol,nswpol,robodebtrc,warwithchinafalsefull    Superannuation and politics of reform, media freedom and the Robodebt criminalshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/superannuation-and-politics-of-reform-media-freedom-and-the-robodebt-criminals--53082393
    The Attorney–General Mark Dreyfus has met with news agencies and media unions to discuss national secrecy laws and improve protections and press freedoms for journalists and people working in news gathering and political reporting. These are important issues, but it's difficult to talk about press freedoms when Julian Assange is still languishing in a British jail – or the fact that Australia's has the least diverse media landscape in the Western world. It would be better for the government to focus on media ownership laws and create a stronger and enforceable code of conduct for the media.

    The Robodebt Royal Commission continues and the role of the former Government Services Minister, Stuart Robert, has been in the spotlight. The Minister was informed by the Secretary of Human Services that the Robodebt scheme was unlawful, which he ignored and said that he would “double down” on the scheme. Officials within the department who supported the Minister's agenda were rewarded, and the others who provided negative advice were punished. It’s one of the biggest scandals to hit Australian politics but, curiously, the mainstream media hasn’t had the stamina to report on this Commission.

    It’s one year since Russia invaded Ukraine – it was only meant to last a few days, but it's still going on and unlikely to stop for some time to come. War is an extension of politics by another means and this one is likely to continue until both sides are exhausted and realise there's no point in going on. Russia is still the big loser here and Vladimir Putin’s quest to rework European geopolitics hasn't paid off so far. But the bigger issue is that so many people have died – up to 300,000 people on both sides – with around six million people displaced. And, as with most wars, it's not the political leaders who are paying the price: it's the innocent civilians and soldiers.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53082393Fri, 03 Mar 2023 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsSuperannuation is a boring topic of conversation at the best of times, but the government can see that it can save a substantial sum of money by closing off a loophole and has introduced a higher level of tax on superannuation accounts holding over $3...
    The Attorney–General Mark Dreyfus has met with news agencies and media unions to discuss national secrecy laws and improve protections and press freedoms for journalists and people working in news gathering and political reporting. These are important issues, but it's difficult to talk about press freedoms when Julian Assange is still languishing in a British jail – or the fact that Australia's has the least diverse media landscape in the Western world. It would be better for the government to focus on media ownership laws and create a stronger and enforceable code of conduct for the media.

    The Robodebt Royal Commission continues and the role of the former Government Services Minister, Stuart Robert, has been in the spotlight. The Minister was informed by the Secretary of Human Services that the Robodebt scheme was unlawful, which he ignored and said that he would “double down” on the scheme. Officials within the department who supported the Minister's agenda were rewarded, and the others who provided negative advice were punished. It’s one of the biggest scandals to hit Australian politics but, curiously, the mainstream media hasn’t had the stamina to report on this Commission.

    It’s one year since Russia invaded Ukraine – it was only meant to last a few days, but it's still going on and unlikely to stop for some time to come. War is an extension of politics by another means and this one is likely to continue until both sides are exhausted and realise there's no point in going on. Russia is still the big loser here and Vladimir Putin’s quest to rework European geopolitics hasn't paid off so far. But the bigger issue is that so many people have died – up to 300,000 people on both sides – with around six million people displaced. And, as with most wars, it's not the political leaders who are paying the price: it's the innocent civilians and soldiers.
    ]]>    2973auspol,robodebtrcfalsefull    The dirty deeds of AFP and News Corp, corrupt NSW and is Albanese’s honeymoon really over?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-dirty-deeds-of-afp-and-news-corp-corrupt-nsw-and-is-albanese-s-honeymoon-really-over--52838479
    And, somehow, the personal diaries of Brittany Higgins were leaked to News Corporation and formed a large part of the story about Linda Reynolds – the diaries were provided to the federal police to assist with the Bruce Luhrmann court trial – but here they are being published in a News Corporation newspaper.

    There’s currently an ACT government investigation into the behaviour of the police and the trial of Bruce Luhrmann – a trial that was aborted – but the leaking of this private material to News Corporation is another issue that needs to be investigated, as is the role of the Australian Federal Police.

    There is an election coming up in NSW next month, and there’s been a raft of resignations in recent times and this follows on from other resignations over the past year – Gladys Berijiklian as well – and there’s other ministers who won’t be contesting at the next election. This is the sorry sight of politics in NSW – it doesn’t really matter who’s in office, corruption and mismanagement is always close by – and this really has the feeling of the last days of a dying government in NSW.

    Sometimes a political culture grows from bad beginnings – NSW was founded as an illegal settlement all the way back in 1788, and then there was the Rum Corp that ran for about 30 years or so – and once a poor political culture becomes established, it’s very hard to shake off, even after 235 years.
    There’s also been a batch of recent opinion polls and all of them are suggesting a dip in support for the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, and a slight improvement of support for the Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton – and as a result, we’ve had the predictable headlines of ‘the end of the honeymoon for Albanese’.

    Most of this noise is media amplifying the issues that they want the public to believe in, but there’s still a great deal of support for the Labor government. This will start to wear off, especially when the Labor government does things like approve 116 coal seam gas wells in Queensland and still sticks with supporting the Stage 3 tax cuts – but this is the time they really need to start performing and stick to the agenda they took to the Australian public at the last federal election.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52838479Fri, 24 Feb 2023 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe Australian Federal Police is in the news again, and this time it’s through a newspaper interview with the former Defence Minister, Senator Linda Reynolds – and this relates to the allegations of a rape that occurred in Parliament House in 2019,...
    And, somehow, the personal diaries of Brittany Higgins were leaked to News Corporation and formed a large part of the story about Linda Reynolds – the diaries were provided to the federal police to assist with the Bruce Luhrmann court trial – but here they are being published in a News Corporation newspaper.

    There’s currently an ACT government investigation into the behaviour of the police and the trial of Bruce Luhrmann – a trial that was aborted – but the leaking of this private material to News Corporation is another issue that needs to be investigated, as is the role of the Australian Federal Police.

    There is an election coming up in NSW next month, and there’s been a raft of resignations in recent times and this follows on from other resignations over the past year – Gladys Berijiklian as well – and there’s other ministers who won’t be contesting at the next election. This is the sorry sight of politics in NSW – it doesn’t really matter who’s in office, corruption and mismanagement is always close by – and this really has the feeling of the last days of a dying government in NSW.

    Sometimes a political culture grows from bad beginnings – NSW was founded as an illegal settlement all the way back in 1788, and then there was the Rum Corp that ran for about 30 years or so – and once a poor political culture becomes established, it’s very hard to shake off, even after 235 years.
    There’s also been a batch of recent opinion polls and all of them are suggesting a dip in support for the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, and a slight improvement of support for the Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton – and as a result, we’ve had the predictable headlines of ‘the end of the honeymoon for Albanese’.

    Most of this noise is media amplifying the issues that they want the public to believe in, but there’s still a great deal of support for the Labor government. This will start to wear off, especially when the Labor government does things like approve 116 coal seam gas wells in Queensland and still sticks with supporting the Stage 3 tax cuts – but this is the time they really need to start performing and stick to the agenda they took to the Australian public at the last federal election.
    ]]>    2631falsefull    The Apology, Aston byelection and Labor’s bad gambling habithttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-apology-aston-byelection-and-labor-s-bad-gambling-habit--52766648
    The highlight of the week was the commemoration of the 15th anniversary of the National apology to the Stolen Generations. But the apology that has sucked all the attention is the one from Peter Dutton, who now says he didn't understand the significance of the apology to the Stolen Generations in 2008. If Peter Dutton is truly sorry for his actions from 2008, he’d backtrack on his opposition to the Voice to Parliament and he’d stop opposing for the sake of opposing. We don’t want to hear another apology from Peter Dutton in another 15 years’ time, for not understanding the significance of the occasion – it will be far too late for that. He needs to understand the significance of the occasion right now.

    There will be a byelection in the Melbourne seat of Aston caused by the resignation of former minister Alan Tudge, and it's been labeled as a big test for Peter Dutton. But it's also a big test for Anthony Albanese and the federal government. There can be endless opinion polls and speculation about public sentiment for the government and for the Opposition, but the real test in politics comes in when real votes are lodged at the ballot box.

    Aston hasn't been held by the Labor Party since 1990 and it has been a safe Liberal seat for most of that time since. An incumbent government hasn't won a seat off an Opposition in a byelection since 1921. But the electorate usually votes against the party that caused the by election first place – the Labor government is riding high in the polls and the Liberal–National party isn't. So it's a seat that the Labor Party could win. Equally, it's a seat that the Liberal Party should hold. But in byelections, a lot of political rules get thrown out the window.

    Political donations have come under the spotlight with revelations of the Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland receiving two donations from Sportsbet in the lead up to the 2022 federal election. And she was the Opposition spokesperson on online gambling and now as Minister of Communications, she's got responsibility for the Interactive Gambling Act and the Australian Communications and Media Authority.

    Sportsbet makes substantial donations to both the Liberal and the Labor parties but this is not a good look, and it's a corruption of the political process: that's one problem. The fact that all of this is legal, is a travesty. Disclosure laws need to change, as well as major reforms to the political donation system.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52766648Fri, 17 Feb 2023 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThere was another session of Parliament this week and we found out that the federal government has spent $7.6 million to prosecute whistleblowers – while most of that was expended by the previous Coalition government and although the Labor government...
    The highlight of the week was the commemoration of the 15th anniversary of the National apology to the Stolen Generations. But the apology that has sucked all the attention is the one from Peter Dutton, who now says he didn't understand the significance of the apology to the Stolen Generations in 2008. If Peter Dutton is truly sorry for his actions from 2008, he’d backtrack on his opposition to the Voice to Parliament and he’d stop opposing for the sake of opposing. We don’t want to hear another apology from Peter Dutton in another 15 years’ time, for not understanding the significance of the occasion – it will be far too late for that. He needs to understand the significance of the occasion right now.

    There will be a byelection in the Melbourne seat of Aston caused by the resignation of former minister Alan Tudge, and it's been labeled as a big test for Peter Dutton. But it's also a big test for Anthony Albanese and the federal government. There can be endless opinion polls and speculation about public sentiment for the government and for the Opposition, but the real test in politics comes in when real votes are lodged at the ballot box.

    Aston hasn't been held by the Labor Party since 1990 and it has been a safe Liberal seat for most of that time since. An incumbent government hasn't won a seat off an Opposition in a byelection since 1921. But the electorate usually votes against the party that caused the by election first place – the Labor government is riding high in the polls and the Liberal–National party isn't. So it's a seat that the Labor Party could win. Equally, it's a seat that the Liberal Party should hold. But in byelections, a lot of political rules get thrown out the window.

    Political donations have come under the spotlight with revelations of the Minister for Communications Michelle Rowland receiving two donations from Sportsbet in the lead up to the 2022 federal election. And she was the Opposition spokesperson on online gambling and now as Minister of Communications, she's got responsibility for the Interactive Gambling Act and the Australian Communications and Media Authority.

    Sportsbet makes substantial donations to both the Liberal and the Labor parties but this is not a good look, and it's a corruption of the political process: that's one problem. The fact that all of this is legal, is a travesty. Disclosure laws need to change, as well as major reforms to the political donation system.
    ]]>    2486auspol,sportsbet,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Parliament returns, Lidia Thorpe and the beginning of the end of Duttonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/parliament-returns-lidia-thorpe-and-the-beginning-of-the-end-of-dutton--52691317
    There’s been a great deal of focus on The Voice To Parliament in the lead up to the first week of parliamentary sittings, but there’s other issues in the spotlight – the Robodebt royal commission, the economy, reform of Medicare, an interest rate rise, the cost of living issues that keep coming up, and offshore immigration detention has also make a comeback.

    Senator Lidia Thorpe has resigned from the Australian Greens and will sit on the crossbench as an independent Senator, and decided to resign when it became clear that the Greens were going to support the “Yes” campaign for The Voice To Parliament – Thorpe feels it’s more important to have a treaty first – but this has worked out best for both parties – the Greens can campaign for the “yes” vote, and Lidia Thorpe can campaign against it, if she wishes to, and then pursue the treaty, and promote the Blak Sovereignty Movement.

    Taking Australia’s history into account, European invasion and settlement after 1788 and federation after 1901 – there should be a treaty if this is the wishes of First Nation’s people – and it’s obvious that many do – it’s difficult to know what the results will be from Thorpe’s resignation from the Greens will be, but she will become another Senator the government will need to negotiate with to have their legislation passed by the Senate. So, it could give her some more control in the Senate to achieve these agendas – but on the other hand, it might not.

    There’s been some internal discussions within the Liberal Party – and some disquiet about Peter Dutton and the electoral prospects of the Liberal Party. Dutton is not the right person to lead the Liberal Party at this point of time in its history – but there was nobody else who wanted the job just after a big election loss and there was nobody else who was leadership material.

    But Dutton is just not getting any traction, and it seems that the perceptions of Dutton as the hard man of politics are set and unlikely to change – and this is at a time when the electorate is looking for a softer and less brutal side to politics.

    It might be a case where Dutton is so negative – and that this is what people expect to see from him – that he’s preaching to the converted – or his own conservative backbench that keeps him in the leadership position – and even if he became more positive, that no one would believe him. He’s so dour and negative and really hasn’t got much to offer in policy terms – all he’s doing is offering a culture of complaint. This might have worked in the past, but it’s not going to work this time in Australia’s political history.
    ]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52691317Fri, 10 Feb 2023 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsParliament has returned for the year, with the government keen to implement its agenda, the Opposition trying to make itself relevant, and everyone else trying to influence all the political outcomes. There’s been a great deal of focus on The Voice...
    There’s been a great deal of focus on The Voice To Parliament in the lead up to the first week of parliamentary sittings, but there’s other issues in the spotlight – the Robodebt royal commission, the economy, reform of Medicare, an interest rate rise, the cost of living issues that keep coming up, and offshore immigration detention has also make a comeback.

    Senator Lidia Thorpe has resigned from the Australian Greens and will sit on the crossbench as an independent Senator, and decided to resign when it became clear that the Greens were going to support the “Yes” campaign for The Voice To Parliament – Thorpe feels it’s more important to have a treaty first – but this has worked out best for both parties – the Greens can campaign for the “yes” vote, and Lidia Thorpe can campaign against it, if she wishes to, and then pursue the treaty, and promote the Blak Sovereignty Movement.

    Taking Australia’s history into account, European invasion and settlement after 1788 and federation after 1901 – there should be a treaty if this is the wishes of First Nation’s people – and it’s obvious that many do – it’s difficult to know what the results will be from Thorpe’s resignation from the Greens will be, but she will become another Senator the government will need to negotiate with to have their legislation passed by the Senate. So, it could give her some more control in the Senate to achieve these agendas – but on the other hand, it might not.

    There’s been some internal discussions within the Liberal Party – and some disquiet about Peter Dutton and the electoral prospects of the Liberal Party. Dutton is not the right person to lead the Liberal Party at this point of time in its history – but there was nobody else who wanted the job just after a big election loss and there was nobody else who was leadership material.

    But Dutton is just not getting any traction, and it seems that the perceptions of Dutton as the hard man of politics are set and unlikely to change – and this is at a time when the electorate is looking for a softer and less brutal side to politics.

    It might be a case where Dutton is so negative – and that this is what people expect to see from him – that he’s preaching to the converted – or his own conservative backbench that keeps him in the leadership position – and even if he became more positive, that no one would believe him. He’s so dour and negative and really hasn’t got much to offer in policy terms – all he’s doing is offering a culture of complaint. This might have worked in the past, but it’s not going to work this time in Australia’s political history.
    ]]>    2716auspol,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    The explosive Robodebt inquiry and reinventing capitalismhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-explosive-robodebt-inquiry-and-reinventing-capitalism--52625546
    There was a massive amount of explosive evidence to come out from the Robodebt Royal Commission this week, with ministers, political staffers and public servants all coming in to show how inept, corrupt and deceptive the scheme was – an illegal system that was created and instigated by the previous Coalition government, in the hope that nobody would ever find out.

    Most of the evidence presented to this Royal Commission is unbelievable – that ministers could be so corrupt and negligent, public servants could be so incompetent, and political staffers could be so ignorant and dense. The Royal Commission is not a court of law, so it can’t prosecute anyone, but some punitive measures need to be taken, even if it is to make sure that these people can never again serve in public life ever again. That’s how bad all of this is.

    The Treasurer Jim Chalmers has published a major article titled “Capitalism After The Crises” and the right-wing media had yet another field day – it’s too ambitious, it will end in disaster and the Treasurer is being too arrogant with his suggestion he might be able to re-define capitalism.

    Chalmers wants to introduce values-based economics to the Australian community – harnessing the dynamics of technological change, the role of the public sector in innovation, and broadening the spectrum of finance and economics so it closely aligns to human wellbeing and behaviour, and not just a set of numbers.

    And this sets up a series of exciting possibilities for the Australian economy – but it’s all been attacked by conservatives – they lack the imagination to understand what the future could look like, and they’re failing to understand history – and in terms of the economic changes that are happening around the world, Australia has to adapt to new economic thinking: otherwise, it’s going to be left behind.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52625546Fri, 03 Feb 2023 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIt’s hard to believe how bad and illegal Robodebt was, but when you have the most incompetent government ever, anything’s possible. There was a massive amount of explosive evidence to come out from the Robodebt Royal Commission this week, with...
    There was a massive amount of explosive evidence to come out from the Robodebt Royal Commission this week, with ministers, political staffers and public servants all coming in to show how inept, corrupt and deceptive the scheme was – an illegal system that was created and instigated by the previous Coalition government, in the hope that nobody would ever find out.

    Most of the evidence presented to this Royal Commission is unbelievable – that ministers could be so corrupt and negligent, public servants could be so incompetent, and political staffers could be so ignorant and dense. The Royal Commission is not a court of law, so it can’t prosecute anyone, but some punitive measures need to be taken, even if it is to make sure that these people can never again serve in public life ever again. That’s how bad all of this is.

    The Treasurer Jim Chalmers has published a major article titled “Capitalism After The Crises” and the right-wing media had yet another field day – it’s too ambitious, it will end in disaster and the Treasurer is being too arrogant with his suggestion he might be able to re-define capitalism.

    Chalmers wants to introduce values-based economics to the Australian community – harnessing the dynamics of technological change, the role of the public sector in innovation, and broadening the spectrum of finance and economics so it closely aligns to human wellbeing and behaviour, and not just a set of numbers.

    And this sets up a series of exciting possibilities for the Australian economy – but it’s all been attacked by conservatives – they lack the imagination to understand what the future could look like, and they’re failing to understand history – and in terms of the economic changes that are happening around the world, Australia has to adapt to new economic thinking: otherwise, it’s going to be left behind.]]>    2343auspol,robodebtrcfalsefull    The misogyny of News Corp and the racism of the Righthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-misogyny-of-news-corp-and-the-racism-of-the-right--52560859
    These comments and negative articles were made by male journalists at News Corporation and continues their long tradition of sexism and misogyny. They attacked New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark when she left office in 2008, and it’s difficult to overlook those three long, hard years of sexism and misogyny from News Corporation directed at former Prime Minister Julia Gillard. Connecting all of dots – Ardern, Clark, Gillard – they were successful politicians; they were from the left. They were from a political party which represents unions and workers. And the big factor: they are all women. And that's the big issue that News Corporation just doesn't seem to be able to handle very well.

    The Prime Minister visited Alice Springs in response to rising crime rates in the town. And as usual, the media decided Anthony Albanese was terrible for not going to Alice Springs and, then when he did go, he was also terrible for doing that as well. It’s hard to appease the media, who can't seem to decide what's right or wrong.

    Peter Dutton has been railing against the Voice to Parliament for several months, asking for more details when all the details are already out there. And he ramps up every conceivable problem in the Indigenous community and then asks how the Voice to Parliament is going to fix them. During the week, Dutton was also in Alice Springs, highlighting all the crime problems in the city and calling on the government to send in the defence forces – and when Dutton speaks, the media obliges. Now the media has claimed Albanese buckled under pressure, even though he was planning to make the trip in December, but was afflicted with COVID. Then he rescheduled the trip just over a week ago, before Peter Dutton ramped up his fake outrage – and Albanese was then criticised for failing to address a major problem in a regional town.

    There's no doubt crime is a problem in Alice Springs. But most of the rise in crime rates occurred before Albanese became Prime Minister and crime and policing is the responsibility of the states and territories, not the federal government. If only political reporters understood politics more and reported accurately, instead of always siding with the likes of someone like Dutton, who just seeks division and trouble at every opportunity.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52560859Fri, 27 Jan 2023 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe Australian media usually stays away from New Zealand politics but News Corporation had a field day when Jacinda Ardern announced her resignation, suggesting all of her instincts were bad, she shut down the engines of economic growth and she was a...
    These comments and negative articles were made by male journalists at News Corporation and continues their long tradition of sexism and misogyny. They attacked New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark when she left office in 2008, and it’s difficult to overlook those three long, hard years of sexism and misogyny from News Corporation directed at former Prime Minister Julia Gillard. Connecting all of dots – Ardern, Clark, Gillard – they were successful politicians; they were from the left. They were from a political party which represents unions and workers. And the big factor: they are all women. And that's the big issue that News Corporation just doesn't seem to be able to handle very well.

    The Prime Minister visited Alice Springs in response to rising crime rates in the town. And as usual, the media decided Anthony Albanese was terrible for not going to Alice Springs and, then when he did go, he was also terrible for doing that as well. It’s hard to appease the media, who can't seem to decide what's right or wrong.

    Peter Dutton has been railing against the Voice to Parliament for several months, asking for more details when all the details are already out there. And he ramps up every conceivable problem in the Indigenous community and then asks how the Voice to Parliament is going to fix them. During the week, Dutton was also in Alice Springs, highlighting all the crime problems in the city and calling on the government to send in the defence forces – and when Dutton speaks, the media obliges. Now the media has claimed Albanese buckled under pressure, even though he was planning to make the trip in December, but was afflicted with COVID. Then he rescheduled the trip just over a week ago, before Peter Dutton ramped up his fake outrage – and Albanese was then criticised for failing to address a major problem in a regional town.

    There's no doubt crime is a problem in Alice Springs. But most of the rise in crime rates occurred before Albanese became Prime Minister and crime and policing is the responsibility of the states and territories, not the federal government. If only political reporters understood politics more and reported accurately, instead of always siding with the likes of someone like Dutton, who just seeks division and trouble at every opportunity.]]>    2389auspol,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    A Nazi in the ranks and the end of Pellhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-nazi-in-the-ranks-and-the-end-of-pell--52491756
    But this has got nothing to do the costume itself: it’s more to do with political payback and who’s going to lead the Right faction of the Liberal Party after a likely election loss at the NSW state election in March.

    George Pell died last week – conservative MPs and mainstream media, especially News Corporation have lauded Pell as a “saint of our times” and running reams of favourable coverage about how he was persecuted for his beliefs when he spent 18 months in a Victoria jail. But George Pell was not a hero at all.

    He failed to report child sexual abuse in Ballarat, he practiced that long held Catholic tradition of moving offending priests from one parish to another, he wasn’t interested in listening to the victims of child sexual abuse, there were a number of allegations of historical child sexual abuse that never made it to court – Pell was found guilty of child sexual abuse in Victoria, before the high court overturned the decision 18 months later – he was also a climate change skeptic, and wanted to reduce the role of women within the Catholic church.

    George Pell was a seriously flawed character and signified everything that is wrong with the Catholic church in Australia and it would have been better if his supporters acknowledged this.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52491756Fri, 20 Jan 2023 21:00:01 +0000New PoliticsDominic Perrottet claims that he was naïve and didn’t really understand the consequences of his actions of wearing a Nazi costume to his 21st birthday party but, to put this in context, Perrottet is 40 years old, which means his 21st was held in 2003...
    But this has got nothing to do the costume itself: it’s more to do with political payback and who’s going to lead the Right faction of the Liberal Party after a likely election loss at the NSW state election in March.

    George Pell died last week – conservative MPs and mainstream media, especially News Corporation have lauded Pell as a “saint of our times” and running reams of favourable coverage about how he was persecuted for his beliefs when he spent 18 months in a Victoria jail. But George Pell was not a hero at all.

    He failed to report child sexual abuse in Ballarat, he practiced that long held Catholic tradition of moving offending priests from one parish to another, he wasn’t interested in listening to the victims of child sexual abuse, there were a number of allegations of historical child sexual abuse that never made it to court – Pell was found guilty of child sexual abuse in Victoria, before the high court overturned the decision 18 months later – he was also a climate change skeptic, and wanted to reduce the role of women within the Catholic church.

    George Pell was a seriously flawed character and signified everything that is wrong with the Catholic church in Australia and it would have been better if his supporters acknowledged this.]]>    2134auspol,nswpol,pellfalsefull    The Voice To Parliament and No Future for the Liberal Partyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-voice-to-parliament-and-no-future-for-the-liberal-party--52429815
    Already, the National Party has said that they won’t support The Voice To Parliament; the Liberal Party are doing their best to create division, fear and confusion within the community, and this is all being amplified by conservative media interests – but following on from the federal and Victoria elections last year, could this be another case where the electorate ignores what the Liberal Party and the media is telling them, and go on to support an issue that is in the interests of Indigenous people?

    And, late last year, the Liberal Party released their election review, and it was released just before Christmas, so maybe they didn’t want too many people reading it – and it reads like a document of paranoia, a war-gaming plan to attack the teal independents in future election campaigns, and suggests that party needs to move even further to the right to differentiate itself from the Labor Party.

    It could be a case where the Liberal Party doesn’t really know how to prepare a good election review after it’s lost an election – Labor’s losing election reviews are generally more concise and definitive because they’ve had more of them in recent times – but based on what’s in Liberal Party election review, they might be in Opposition for some time to come.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52429815Fri, 13 Jan 2023 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIt’s still quite early in the year but already, there’s a big focus on The Voice To Parliament – the Prime Minister has started mapping the timeline for when the referendum might take place – and it could be as early as August this year – the...
    Already, the National Party has said that they won’t support The Voice To Parliament; the Liberal Party are doing their best to create division, fear and confusion within the community, and this is all being amplified by conservative media interests – but following on from the federal and Victoria elections last year, could this be another case where the electorate ignores what the Liberal Party and the media is telling them, and go on to support an issue that is in the interests of Indigenous people?

    And, late last year, the Liberal Party released their election review, and it was released just before Christmas, so maybe they didn’t want too many people reading it – and it reads like a document of paranoia, a war-gaming plan to attack the teal independents in future election campaigns, and suggests that party needs to move even further to the right to differentiate itself from the Labor Party.

    It could be a case where the Liberal Party doesn’t really know how to prepare a good election review after it’s lost an election – Labor’s losing election reviews are generally more concise and definitive because they’ve had more of them in recent times – but based on what’s in Liberal Party election review, they might be in Opposition for some time to come.]]>    2399auspol,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    The year in review: Morrison the dangerous Prime Ministerhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-year-in-review-morrison-the-dangerous-prime-minister--52241677
    But it was obvious that Morrison was going to use the same tactics from 2019 to try and win this election – photo and media opportunities, and it was almost like Season Two of At Home With The Morrisons.

    Scott Morrison was seen as a formidable campaigner, but that was a charade and a paper tiger – Morrison was a hopeless campaigner and thrown out of office at the May election.

    We were strong critics of Morrison during his time as prime minister – and it seems the electorate agreed with us at the federal election. But with all the material and information that’s coming out about Morrison since that election loss, not only was he the worst prime minster in Australia’s history, he was on the way to becoming one of the more dangerous prime ministers.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52241677Fri, 23 Dec 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsFor most of this year, it looked like Scott Morrison and the Liberal–National coaltion was going to lose the election, but because the opinion polls got it so wrong in 2019, very few people were prepared to predict the election result in 2022. But it...
    But it was obvious that Morrison was going to use the same tactics from 2019 to try and win this election – photo and media opportunities, and it was almost like Season Two of At Home With The Morrisons.

    Scott Morrison was seen as a formidable campaigner, but that was a charade and a paper tiger – Morrison was a hopeless campaigner and thrown out of office at the May election.

    We were strong critics of Morrison during his time as prime minister – and it seems the electorate agreed with us at the federal election. But with all the material and information that’s coming out about Morrison since that election loss, not only was he the worst prime minster in Australia’s history, he was on the way to becoming one of the more dangerous prime ministers.]]>    1252auspolfalsefull    The year in review: the 2022 electionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-year-in-review-the-2022-election--52201589
    Looking at Labor has been performing since the election in May, it appears the election result has been validated – they've implemented anti-corruption commission legislation, reformed industrial relations, repaired the relationship with Pacific Islands and started to repair the relationship with China. They've put the Voice to Parliament on the political map, they've introduced legislation to stabilise energy prices. This is a government that wants to do things, they don't want to waste time. At looking at some of their achievements over the past seven months, they’ve achieved more than the Coalition managed to achieve over nine years They are riding high in the polls at the moment but that's not going to last forever. But it also suggests the electorate is happy with the choice they made at the 2022 federal election.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52201589Fri, 16 Dec 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIt was a big year in politics and the biggest event was the federal election in May. It wasn't clear who was going to win the election, even though opinion polls were suggesting Labor was going to win. In that first hour after the polls closed on...
    Looking at Labor has been performing since the election in May, it appears the election result has been validated – they've implemented anti-corruption commission legislation, reformed industrial relations, repaired the relationship with Pacific Islands and started to repair the relationship with China. They've put the Voice to Parliament on the political map, they've introduced legislation to stabilise energy prices. This is a government that wants to do things, they don't want to waste time. At looking at some of their achievements over the past seven months, they’ve achieved more than the Coalition managed to achieve over nine years They are riding high in the polls at the moment but that's not going to last forever. But it also suggests the electorate is happy with the choice they made at the 2022 federal election.]]>    1901auspolfalsefull    Labor election review, gormless Robodebt, AFP interferes in Lehrmann case, and final 2022 opinion pollshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/labor-election-review-gormless-robodebt-afp-interferes-in-lehrmann-case-and-final-2022-opinion-polls--52136096
    The Royal Commission into Robodebt is continuing and the news is becoming more and more damning for the former Coalition government and for the former Prime Minister Scott Morrison. There is a lot of buck-passing going on within this commission – the former head of the Department of Human Services Kathyrn Campbell keeps saying that she wish she’d taken more notice of the legality of Robodebt, and just assumed that it legal because nobody had said that it wasn’t. This is what happens when you have a compromised public service – everyone assumes everyone else is doing the work, no one takes responsibility, and in the meantime, there’s a whole lot of deliberate incompetence that ends up destroying people’s lives.

    And there’s more revelations coming out about the Bruce Lehrmann case – and he was facing allegations of committing rape at Parliament House in 2019 – the first case resulted in a mistrial after misconduct by one of the jury members, and the second case was due to be held in February, but the department of public prosecutions dropped the charges due to health concerns for the complainant, Brittany Higgins. There have been allegations that the Australian Federal Police disclosed evidence they held – including psychological counseling notes from Brittany Higgins – to Lehrmann’s legal term – it seems that there has been a lot of interference in this case – they got involved in June 2021, raising concerns about any possible prosecution – and that was before any charges were laid. The Australian Federal Police has been politicised by the Liberal Party over the past two decades – and there were some suggestions that it was like a private militia for Liberal Prime ministers – but there probably needs to be further investigations into their behaviour.

    The final opinion polls for the year have been released, and they both show Anthony Albanese is going everywhere, and Peter Dutton is going nowhere. In the Resolve Poll, the primary vote for Labor is at 42%, and that’s about 10% higher than their election result, and for the Coalition, it’s down to 30% – the preferred Prime Minister metric has Albanese at 54%, and Dutton at 19% – Albanese’s net approval rating is 36% – 60% approve, and 24% disapprove – Dutton’s net approval is minus 14. The Prime Minister and Labor did finish the parliamentary year well, but this is the icing on the cake – their election review suggests that they’re trying to remove as much complacency as possible within the ranks, but it might a bit difficult with an Opposition that’s performing so poorly.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52136096Fri, 09 Dec 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe Labor review of the 2022 election has been released, and it’s a much better read than the reviews from the previous three elections which were all lost by the Labor Party. Of course, Labor did win the 2022 election, and while they’ve highlighted...
    The Royal Commission into Robodebt is continuing and the news is becoming more and more damning for the former Coalition government and for the former Prime Minister Scott Morrison. There is a lot of buck-passing going on within this commission – the former head of the Department of Human Services Kathyrn Campbell keeps saying that she wish she’d taken more notice of the legality of Robodebt, and just assumed that it legal because nobody had said that it wasn’t. This is what happens when you have a compromised public service – everyone assumes everyone else is doing the work, no one takes responsibility, and in the meantime, there’s a whole lot of deliberate incompetence that ends up destroying people’s lives.

    And there’s more revelations coming out about the Bruce Lehrmann case – and he was facing allegations of committing rape at Parliament House in 2019 – the first case resulted in a mistrial after misconduct by one of the jury members, and the second case was due to be held in February, but the department of public prosecutions dropped the charges due to health concerns for the complainant, Brittany Higgins. There have been allegations that the Australian Federal Police disclosed evidence they held – including psychological counseling notes from Brittany Higgins – to Lehrmann’s legal term – it seems that there has been a lot of interference in this case – they got involved in June 2021, raising concerns about any possible prosecution – and that was before any charges were laid. The Australian Federal Police has been politicised by the Liberal Party over the past two decades – and there were some suggestions that it was like a private militia for Liberal Prime ministers – but there probably needs to be further investigations into their behaviour.

    The final opinion polls for the year have been released, and they both show Anthony Albanese is going everywhere, and Peter Dutton is going nowhere. In the Resolve Poll, the primary vote for Labor is at 42%, and that’s about 10% higher than their election result, and for the Coalition, it’s down to 30% – the preferred Prime Minister metric has Albanese at 54%, and Dutton at 19% – Albanese’s net approval rating is 36% – 60% approve, and 24% disapprove – Dutton’s net approval is minus 14. The Prime Minister and Labor did finish the parliamentary year well, but this is the icing on the cake – their election review suggests that they’re trying to remove as much complacency as possible within the ranks, but it might a bit difficult with an Opposition that’s performing so poorly.]]>    2598auspol,robodebtfalsefull    The massive media fail, Morrison censured and Labor ends the year on a highhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-massive-media-fail-morrison-censured-and-labor-ends-the-year-on-a-high--52076611
    Scott Morrison has been censured by the parliament for secretly acquiring five ministries in 2020 and 2021. And while what he did was not unlawful, it’s one of the most bizarre incidents in Australia's parliamentary history: there was no need for him to do this; there was absolutely no need for him to keep it a secret; he hasn’t actually offered any valid explanation for it; it totally undermined the principles of Westminster democracies. The Opposition labelled this censure as a grubby political exercise but it's a situation that couldn't just be left behind or forgotten about. It’s an action that should never have happened and the public needs to keep being reminded about it, so it doesn’t happen again.

    The parliament has ended for the year – Labor's industrial relations and National Anti-Corruption Commission bills were passed by the Senate, and these are two massive legislative victories for the Labor government. Anthony Albanese ends the parliamentary year high in the polls, and he was able to relax and go to a Nick Cave concert in Canberra during the week. These moments have to be lapped up because they're not going to last for too long – Kevin Rudd also enjoyed high support six months into his prime ministership in 2008, and Labor occupied every single state and territory government around Australia. Many people at that time said that Labor was going to be in office for at least the next decade or two, but it didn't quite turn out that way. But after seven months in office, the Labor government should be content with its achievements so far.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52076611Fri, 02 Dec 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe Victoria election was held last weekend and, contrary to what everyone in the media wanted and predicted, it was another crushing defeat for the Liberal Party. It wasn't even close. For the past three months, many in the mainstream media predicted...
    Scott Morrison has been censured by the parliament for secretly acquiring five ministries in 2020 and 2021. And while what he did was not unlawful, it’s one of the most bizarre incidents in Australia's parliamentary history: there was no need for him to do this; there was absolutely no need for him to keep it a secret; he hasn’t actually offered any valid explanation for it; it totally undermined the principles of Westminster democracies. The Opposition labelled this censure as a grubby political exercise but it's a situation that couldn't just be left behind or forgotten about. It’s an action that should never have happened and the public needs to keep being reminded about it, so it doesn’t happen again.

    The parliament has ended for the year – Labor's industrial relations and National Anti-Corruption Commission bills were passed by the Senate, and these are two massive legislative victories for the Labor government. Anthony Albanese ends the parliamentary year high in the polls, and he was able to relax and go to a Nick Cave concert in Canberra during the week. These moments have to be lapped up because they're not going to last for too long – Kevin Rudd also enjoyed high support six months into his prime ministership in 2008, and Labor occupied every single state and territory government around Australia. Many people at that time said that Labor was going to be in office for at least the next decade or two, but it didn't quite turn out that way. But after seven months in office, the Labor government should be content with its achievements so far.]]>    2469auspol,mediafail,vicpolfalsefull    Miners attacking IR changes, despicable media in Victoria, and drop the whistleblower charges now!https://www.spreaker.com/episode/miners-attacking-ir-changes-despicable-media-in-victoria-and-drop-the-whistleblower-charges-now--52008121
    And the big sticking points for these large companies is that issue of workers from different companies to collectively negotiate pay rises – but it seems that business just wants everything on its own terms.

    It’s the weekend of the Victoria election – and we think that it’s one of the most important state elections for some time – not so much about the result, but the behaviour of the Liberal Party and the mainstream media. A three-year anti-Daniel Andrews campaign that commenced during the pandemic, with all of the media’s anti-lockdown stories, interviewing café owners, gym owners and pub owners about how unfair all of this was, and now filling the campaign with as much hate and bile as possible – we’ve just never seen anything like this in an election campaign before.

    The court cases against whistleblowers David McBride and Richard Boyle are ongoing, but the Attorney–General, Mark Dreyfus needs to use his discretionary powers to drop the charges and set them free.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52008121Fri, 25 Nov 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIndustrial relations are once again in the spotlight, with the mining industry and Qantas joining the Coalition in their attacks on the Labor government’s proposed legislation. And the big sticking points for these large companies is that issue of...
    And the big sticking points for these large companies is that issue of workers from different companies to collectively negotiate pay rises – but it seems that business just wants everything on its own terms.

    It’s the weekend of the Victoria election – and we think that it’s one of the most important state elections for some time – not so much about the result, but the behaviour of the Liberal Party and the mainstream media. A three-year anti-Daniel Andrews campaign that commenced during the pandemic, with all of the media’s anti-lockdown stories, interviewing café owners, gym owners and pub owners about how unfair all of this was, and now filling the campaign with as much hate and bile as possible – we’ve just never seen anything like this in an election campaign before.

    The court cases against whistleblowers David McBride and Richard Boyle are ongoing, but the Attorney–General, Mark Dreyfus needs to use his discretionary powers to drop the charges and set them free.]]>    2283auspol,vicpolfalsefull    China Defrosted, the US Midterms and Australia’s Big Gambling Problemhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/china-defrosted-the-us-midterms-and-australia-s-big-gambling-problem--51937107
    The low point in the relationship was when the former Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Peter Dutton accused China of deliberately causing the coronavirus outbreak in 2020, China retaliated by imposing trade sanctions on Australian goods and services to the tune of $20 billion. All it took was some sensible people on both sides to start the dialogue, sit down in a room, discuss the issues, look at common ground, and create a pathway towards shared interests. Anthony Albanese has shown what constructive international diplomacy looks like, and it’s a stark contrast from the actions of the previous government, who just wanted to rattle the sabre and shout at everyone from the rooftops.

    And the mid-term elections in the United States are over – there was talk of the red wave coming through from the Republicans, but that never eventuated, and most of the candidates supported by former US President Donald Trump didn’t get up, and the Democrats will still hold the Senate, and the Republicans will control the US congress by a very small margin. So, this is in America, but it’s an important election result, not just for America, but for Australia and the rest of the world.

    Many jurisdictions all over the world over the past few years have swung towards more liberal-minded or governments of a centre-left persuasion, and there was a feeling that after the election of a far-right Prime Minister in Italy, the world was going to start swinging the other way, and the US was going to continue the trend that started off in Italy. There was a feeling that the red-wave coming in the US was going to signal a return of Donald Trump to the Presidency – and he has announce his intention to run in 2024 – but if he does get to the final election race, he might be in for a surprise.

    But we’ve got a more insidious problem in Australia and that’s sports betting – and it was revealed during the week that an AFL umpire was arrested for betting on the Brownlow Medal – but it’s not really a surprise, we almost get more betting time than game time, gambling on sports in Australia is around $8 billion per year, SportsBet spends $130 million on advertising each year as well, and also pays the AFL $2 million each year for advertising. And it’s everywhere – it’s at the game, it’s on during a broadcast – a sports panel will discuss a game, and then launch into a segment about the betting odds, and which bet will offer the best return – and there’s a lot of money involved here, but this has become a big problem in sport.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51937107Fri, 18 Nov 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThere’s been a major breakthrough in the diplomatic relationship between Australia and China, with the Australian Prime Minister and Chinese president holding a meeting at the G20 summit in Indonesia. And this is a process initiated by both Anthony...
    The low point in the relationship was when the former Prime Minister Scott Morrison and Peter Dutton accused China of deliberately causing the coronavirus outbreak in 2020, China retaliated by imposing trade sanctions on Australian goods and services to the tune of $20 billion. All it took was some sensible people on both sides to start the dialogue, sit down in a room, discuss the issues, look at common ground, and create a pathway towards shared interests. Anthony Albanese has shown what constructive international diplomacy looks like, and it’s a stark contrast from the actions of the previous government, who just wanted to rattle the sabre and shout at everyone from the rooftops.

    And the mid-term elections in the United States are over – there was talk of the red wave coming through from the Republicans, but that never eventuated, and most of the candidates supported by former US President Donald Trump didn’t get up, and the Democrats will still hold the Senate, and the Republicans will control the US congress by a very small margin. So, this is in America, but it’s an important election result, not just for America, but for Australia and the rest of the world.

    Many jurisdictions all over the world over the past few years have swung towards more liberal-minded or governments of a centre-left persuasion, and there was a feeling that after the election of a far-right Prime Minister in Italy, the world was going to start swinging the other way, and the US was going to continue the trend that started off in Italy. There was a feeling that the red-wave coming in the US was going to signal a return of Donald Trump to the Presidency – and he has announce his intention to run in 2024 – but if he does get to the final election race, he might be in for a surprise.

    But we’ve got a more insidious problem in Australia and that’s sports betting – and it was revealed during the week that an AFL umpire was arrested for betting on the Brownlow Medal – but it’s not really a surprise, we almost get more betting time than game time, gambling on sports in Australia is around $8 billion per year, SportsBet spends $130 million on advertising each year as well, and also pays the AFL $2 million each year for advertising. And it’s everywhere – it’s at the game, it’s on during a broadcast – a sports panel will discuss a game, and then launch into a segment about the betting odds, and which bet will offer the best return – and there’s a lot of money involved here, but this has become a big problem in sport.]]>    2453auspol,china,midtermsfalsefull    Business behaving badly, COP27 no-show, Robodebt disaster, and it’s time to investigate News Corphttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/business-behaving-badly-cop27-no-show-robodebt-disaster-and-it-s-time-to-investigate-news-corp--51860578The Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has come out to say that it will take industrial relations backwards and unions will hold businesses to ransom – this is the just the usual rhetoric that we get from business groups and the Liberal Party, who won’t be happy until workers are paid $2 a day, and can be sacked at whim – but the Labor Party was created through the unions and is the one that is supposed to support workers’ rights whenever it gets into government, so it can’t be a surprise that these changes to industrial relations were going to be made.
    And COP27 is being held in Egypt this week – and that’s the annual United Nations Climate Change Conference – it is an important conference, but people who want global action on climate change are becoming impatient and now suggesting that it’s more of an annual greenwashing event but this is the 27th COP event, and global action is moving at a glacial pace.
    Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, isn’t attending COP27 – we can argue that Albanese’s ministerial team when compared to Scott Morrison’s team is more than capable, but should Albanese be there as well? He can’t argue that the Prime Minister should have gone last year, and then this year argue that he can’t be in two places at the same time can he?
    And the actions of the previous Morrison government are back in the spotlight again – the Robodebt Royal Commission is revealing more and more information about this scheme – and it’s quite damaging to the reputation of Scott Morrison, and to the Liberal Party – and it might lead to lead to more than just damage to reputation.
    This Royal Commission will run its course, and will find out whatever it needs to find out, but one curious issue is the coverage of this Royal Commission in the media – this is illegality committed by a Liberal Government, over 2000 people committed suicide as a result, and it ultimately cost taxpayers $1.8 billion in compensation payments, but the homes pages of the Sydney Morning Herald, the Age, Herald Sun, Courier Mail have no material about the Royal Commission, their reporting has been scarce, the ABC has given some coverage, with most of the reporting coming from the Guardian.
    In comparison to the Royal Commissions into Trade Unions, and the Pink Batts insulation schemes, which had blanket media coverage, there’s not much interest from the media into Robodebt.
    And speaking of how inept the mainstream media is in Australia, the Herald Sun has excelled again in its attacks on the Victoria Premier, Daniel Andrews – and it’s still running with a story about a car accident with a cyclist from 9 years ago, but at least it’s gone to some more recent history, where it’s regurgitated a story from 12 months ago, when Andrews fell down a flight of stairs, and made it seem like something untowards was going on.
    Kevin Rudd did call for a royal commission into media concentration, and while the Labor government might be busy with quite a few other matters at the moment – fixing up the economy, wages growth, industrial relations, climate change, corruption – it will have to do something about News Corporation, because it’s an out of control media organisation, and a menace to society.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51860578Fri, 11 Nov 2022 21:00:01 +0000New PoliticsThere’s a lot of issues that are starting to build up in federal politics and with just a few more weeks of sitting days before the end of the year, the Labor government is trying to fit in as much as possible before they all go home for Christmas....The Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has come out to say that it will take industrial relations backwards and unions will hold businesses to ransom – this is the just the usual rhetoric that we get from business groups and the Liberal Party, who won’t be happy until workers are paid $2 a day, and can be sacked at whim – but the Labor Party was created through the unions and is the one that is supposed to support workers’ rights whenever it gets into government, so it can’t be a surprise that these changes to industrial relations were going to be made.
    And COP27 is being held in Egypt this week – and that’s the annual United Nations Climate Change Conference – it is an important conference, but people who want global action on climate change are becoming impatient and now suggesting that it’s more of an annual greenwashing event but this is the 27th COP event, and global action is moving at a glacial pace.
    Australia’s Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, isn’t attending COP27 – we can argue that Albanese’s ministerial team when compared to Scott Morrison’s team is more than capable, but should Albanese be there as well? He can’t argue that the Prime Minister should have gone last year, and then this year argue that he can’t be in two places at the same time can he?
    And the actions of the previous Morrison government are back in the spotlight again – the Robodebt Royal Commission is revealing more and more information about this scheme – and it’s quite damaging to the reputation of Scott Morrison, and to the Liberal Party – and it might lead to lead to more than just damage to reputation.
    This Royal Commission will run its course, and will find out whatever it needs to find out, but one curious issue is the coverage of this Royal Commission in the media – this is illegality committed by a Liberal Government, over 2000 people committed suicide as a result, and it ultimately cost taxpayers $1.8 billion in compensation payments, but the homes pages of the Sydney Morning Herald, the Age, Herald Sun, Courier Mail have no material about the Royal Commission, their reporting has been scarce, the ABC has given some coverage, with most of the reporting coming from the Guardian.
    In comparison to the Royal Commissions into Trade Unions, and the Pink Batts insulation schemes, which had blanket media coverage, there’s not much interest from the media into Robodebt.
    And speaking of how inept the mainstream media is in Australia, the Herald Sun has excelled again in its attacks on the Victoria Premier, Daniel Andrews – and it’s still running with a story about a car accident with a cyclist from 9 years ago, but at least it’s gone to some more recent history, where it’s regurgitated a story from 12 months ago, when Andrews fell down a flight of stairs, and made it seem like something untowards was going on.
    Kevin Rudd did call for a royal commission into media concentration, and while the Labor government might be busy with quite a few other matters at the moment – fixing up the economy, wages growth, industrial relations, climate change, corruption – it will have to do something about News Corporation, because it’s an out of control media organisation, and a menace to society.]]>    2905auspol,cop27,murdochroyalcommission,robodebtfalsefull    Ghosts of inflation, Lehrmann mistrial, a racist attack in the West, and the divisive News Corphttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ghosts-of-inflation-lehrmann-mistrial-a-racist-attack-in-the-west-and-the-divisive-news-corp--51783012
    Some economists have suggested that the state of the economy now is very similar to the Depression era economy, with a combination of high national debt and inflation – and the Scullin government at that time, couldn’t resolve the issues they inherited and were thrown out of office in 1931.

    It’s difficult to compare economies from different eras – the economy today is far more complex and sophisticated than what it was in 1931 – but there might be a few lessons for the Labor government – fix the economy, or face a very short period of time in office.

    17 min 46 – Robodebt rears its ugly head again

    Robodebt has also reared its ugly head again, and the Royal Commission into the previous government’s Robodebt scheme is hearing evidence at the moment – and there’s some pretty awful material that’s being presented there. And we’re hearing from public servants, lawyers, people affected by Robodebt, people who had family members who suicided after receiving Robodebt notices.

    We can see why the Coalition just wants to deal with the here and the now, and don’t want to hear about the past – but past is coming back to bite them – the government did receive legal advice in 2014 that a Robodebt system was unlawful and unconstitutional – yet a year later, they implemented the scheme. They were also given legal advice during the operation Robodebt scheme that it was unlawful, yet they continued to run with it.

    The former Prime Minister Scott Morrison is likely to appear at the Royal Commission to explain his actions as well, but whatever the outcome from the Royal Commission is, and whoever goes down with it well, we just have to make sure that governments can never ever introduce this type of system again.

    20 min 50 – The Lurhmann mistrial

    And there’s also a few legal cases in the national news – Bruce Lurhmann was accused of raping Brittany Higgins in 2019 at Parliament House – and the trial had to be aborted because of misconduct by one of the members of the jury, where the jury member brought in their own research into the jury room, we assume to influence other jury members – the jury hadn’t been able to reach a verdict after deliberating for five days and after these research papers were found in the jury room, the judge dismissed the case and there’ll be a retrial in February 2023.

    It’s an unsatisfactory outcome, but as a result of this mis-trial, there have been calls for a different type of court system for dealing with serious crimes of sexual assault – only around 15% of rapes are reported to police, and ultimately only 3% of those result in convictions – and only 10% of all rape trials result in a guilty verdict, and that’s a really low statistic considering prosecution usually decides to go to trial if they think there’s a good chance of winning the case –

    So obviously the system is not functioning well at all, and for different reasons, the Bruce Lurhmann trial was a more public example of this – and that was an issue with the jury, not with the case itself – but these types of cases are heard every day all around the country, with similar results, and it’s a system that needs to change.

    26 min 28 – A racist attack in the West

    And there was a recent incident in Perth where a 15-year-old Indigenous boy, was beaten by a 21 year old white man while he was walking home from school – Cassius Turvey died a few days later, and the WA police tried to play down the racial aspect to the attacks by suggesting that he was just in the wrong place at the wrong time – just a bit odd, because Indigenous people always seem to be in the wrong place at the wrong time – and they were also asking the public not to draw conclusions –

    And it’s the same story all around Australia, whether it’s Redfern, Darwin, Palm Island, Moree or Middle Swan in Perth, Police always try to downplay the racist influence in these attacks on Indigenous people – a 15 year old boy has just been killed, and they put so much effort into downplaying the racist element to it.

    The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese has called out this racist attack, so if the Prime Minister can say it, why can’t the police – if a 15-year-old girl from MLC had been attacked in this way, this would be massive national news for the next couple of months, but an Indigenous kid in a working class suburb of Perth, it tends to get brushed away.

    31 min 04 – The division of News Corporation

    Despite everything that the Herald Sun, The Age, and the ABC have been able to throw at Daniel Andrews, Labor is still way ahead in the opinion polls – and Labor have been far from perfect, but they’re not incompetent – Daniel Andrews has made mistakes, but Matthew Guy has been a poor leader and the Victoria Liberal Party is in a complete mess.

    Now having said all of that, we just have to remember what happened in 1999 – The Liberal Premier at the time, Jeff Kennett, he was widely expected to win – he was way ahead in the polls, although the polls did narrow dramatically in the final week or two before the election day – and Steve Bracks ended up winning the election, with the support of independents. In that election, the Liberal Party lost 15 seats – and the ABC’s Anthony Green said afterwards that it was the only election that he’s ever worked on where he thought there might be something wrong with his election computer –

    so, that was a surprise election loss for the government in 1999 – it could always happen again in 2022, although the Coalition needs to win 18 seats to win the election – so it has to win more seats than Labor did in 1999, and it starts from further behind – so, it is unlikely, but you never know what might happen on election day.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51783012Fri, 04 Nov 2022 21:40:01 +0000New PoliticsThe Budget is all over, and just like many of the previous Budgets, it’s almost disappeared from the news cycle, although there’s still some remnants that are being discussed, and the two big issue s are inflation and tax cuts – the Reserve Bank did...
    Some economists have suggested that the state of the economy now is very similar to the Depression era economy, with a combination of high national debt and inflation – and the Scullin government at that time, couldn’t resolve the issues they inherited and were thrown out of office in 1931.

    It’s difficult to compare economies from different eras – the economy today is far more complex and sophisticated than what it was in 1931 – but there might be a few lessons for the Labor government – fix the economy, or face a very short period of time in office.

    17 min 46 – Robodebt rears its ugly head again

    Robodebt has also reared its ugly head again, and the Royal Commission into the previous government’s Robodebt scheme is hearing evidence at the moment – and there’s some pretty awful material that’s being presented there. And we’re hearing from public servants, lawyers, people affected by Robodebt, people who had family members who suicided after receiving Robodebt notices.

    We can see why the Coalition just wants to deal with the here and the now, and don’t want to hear about the past – but past is coming back to bite them – the government did receive legal advice in 2014 that a Robodebt system was unlawful and unconstitutional – yet a year later, they implemented the scheme. They were also given legal advice during the operation Robodebt scheme that it was unlawful, yet they continued to run with it.

    The former Prime Minister Scott Morrison is likely to appear at the Royal Commission to explain his actions as well, but whatever the outcome from the Royal Commission is, and whoever goes down with it well, we just have to make sure that governments can never ever introduce this type of system again.

    20 min 50 – The Lurhmann mistrial

    And there’s also a few legal cases in the national news – Bruce Lurhmann was accused of raping Brittany Higgins in 2019 at Parliament House – and the trial had to be aborted because of misconduct by one of the members of the jury, where the jury member brought in their own research into the jury room, we assume to influence other jury members – the jury hadn’t been able to reach a verdict after deliberating for five days and after these research papers were found in the jury room, the judge dismissed the case and there’ll be a retrial in February 2023.

    It’s an unsatisfactory outcome, but as a result of this mis-trial, there have been calls for a different type of court system for dealing with serious crimes of sexual assault – only around 15% of rapes are reported to police, and ultimately only 3% of those result in convictions – and only 10% of all rape trials result in a guilty verdict, and that’s a really low statistic considering prosecution usually decides to go to trial if they think there’s a good chance of winning the case –

    So obviously the system is not functioning well at all, and for different reasons, the Bruce Lurhmann trial was a more public example of this – and that was an issue with the jury, not with the case itself – but these types of cases...]]>    2641auspol,vicpolfalsefull    Sick of the media: 2022 Labor Budget analysishttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sick-of-the-media-2022-labor-budget-analysis--51714127
    But economics isn’t just about debt and inflation, there’s a wide range of issues to take into account – there’s revenue, how this money is spent, there’s productivity issues, there’s consumer behaviour issues – and, of course, there’s the politics.

    Budgets are all about government trying to achieve their policy objectives, according to their ideological persuasions – but the Labor government is trying to balance a number of different factors, difficult economic circumstances, managing expectations, keeping their election promises – but this first Budget from Jim Chalmers seems to be about building trust with the electorate first up – and of course, there’s going to be people that aren’t happy with the Budget – and it is disappointing from a climate change perspective – and there’s still no additional support for people on Jobseeker – but it’s a Budget that’s getting back to that idea of people at the centre of the economy, and that’s an important first step.

    And whenever there’s a Budget announcement – even if it is the second one of the year – there’s also the Budget right of reply for the leader of the opposition, and Peter Dutton hit all the predictable issues, such as cost of living issues, broken promises, cost of gas and electricity – and just like the media, he’s fixated on the $275 reduction in power prices that Labor promised during the election campaign.

    That was a power reduction that was promised by 2025 – two years away, but it’s not stopping Dutton from making it seem like that’s a promise that has been broken right now – it’s hard work being in Opposition, trying to make yourselves seem relevant, when your not, and especially when a new government is trying to fix up all the severe budget problems that the Coalition has created over the past nine years – you have to hope that the electorate is going to forget all of these problems that were left behind – but at this stage, Dutton has to look for all the small issues to gain traction, not just for the Liberal and National Parties, but for his own position as well.

    Where can Labor improve? This is a good start, but there’ll be another Budget in May 2023, and Labor could do six-monthly Budgets for the first two years of this term if they wanted to – but most economists agree that inflation is the biggest issue facing the federal Budget – and most economists agree that this is what Labor has done right.

    But it will have to do more to address inflation – some of this is controllable, some is not – the first big step for Jim Chalmers has been to gain credibility with the Australian public, but they’ll also have to defy what they said they were going to do during the election campaign – address falling wages – but it can’t do that until inflation is under control.

    So, that’s one of the first big issues they need to do more with, but they’ve got another Budget in May next year – but they can’t move on many other issues until they address this first.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51714127Fri, 28 Oct 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe second Budget for 2022 has been released, and it’s Labor’s first budget in nine years – it’s a Budget that’s been prepared in very difficult circumstances – there’s a national government debt of almost a trillion dollars – inflation is now running...
    But economics isn’t just about debt and inflation, there’s a wide range of issues to take into account – there’s revenue, how this money is spent, there’s productivity issues, there’s consumer behaviour issues – and, of course, there’s the politics.

    Budgets are all about government trying to achieve their policy objectives, according to their ideological persuasions – but the Labor government is trying to balance a number of different factors, difficult economic circumstances, managing expectations, keeping their election promises – but this first Budget from Jim Chalmers seems to be about building trust with the electorate first up – and of course, there’s going to be people that aren’t happy with the Budget – and it is disappointing from a climate change perspective – and there’s still no additional support for people on Jobseeker – but it’s a Budget that’s getting back to that idea of people at the centre of the economy, and that’s an important first step.

    And whenever there’s a Budget announcement – even if it is the second one of the year – there’s also the Budget right of reply for the leader of the opposition, and Peter Dutton hit all the predictable issues, such as cost of living issues, broken promises, cost of gas and electricity – and just like the media, he’s fixated on the $275 reduction in power prices that Labor promised during the election campaign.

    That was a power reduction that was promised by 2025 – two years away, but it’s not stopping Dutton from making it seem like that’s a promise that has been broken right now – it’s hard work being in Opposition, trying to make yourselves seem relevant, when your not, and especially when a new government is trying to fix up all the severe budget problems that the Coalition has created over the past nine years – you have to hope that the electorate is going to forget all of these problems that were left behind – but at this stage, Dutton has to look for all the small issues to gain traction, not just for the Liberal and National Parties, but for his own position as well.

    Where can Labor improve? This is a good start, but there’ll be another Budget in May 2023, and Labor could do six-monthly Budgets for the first two years of this term if they wanted to – but most economists agree that inflation is the biggest issue facing the federal Budget – and most economists agree that this is what Labor has done right.

    But it will have to do more to address inflation – some of this is controllable, some is not – the first big step for Jim Chalmers has been to gain credibility with the Australian public, but they’ll also have to defy what they said they were going to do during the election campaign – address falling wages – but it can’t do that until inflation is under control.

    So, that’s one of the first big issues they need to do more with, but they’ve got another Budget in May next year – but they can’t move on many other issues until they address this first.]]>    2238auspol,budget2022falsefull    The climate change floods, goodbye Jerusalem and a new attack on Medicarehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-climate-change-floods-goodbye-jerusalem-and-a-new-attack-on-medicare--51644010
    In total, that’s eight major floods over the past two years, and as predicted, these extreme events are being more frequent. The previous Coalition government turned a blind eye to climate change, since 2013, and were slow the act when events such as floods and bushfires occurred, and whatever support was given, was granted in a way that favoured them politically.

    This is the second batch of floods in short succession since the Labor government came into office – and we recognise that climate change issues are not going to resolved overnight – but what can the Labor government do that’s different to the previous Coalition government?

    15 min 43 – Goodbye Jerusalem

    And during the week, the Australian government quietly overturned the decision of the Morrison government to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and that decision was made in haste in the lead up to the Wentworth byelection in November 2018, and that’s a seat where 16 per cent of the electorate is Jewish.

    That decision didn’t win the seat of Wentworth at that time – it was lost to the independent candidate, Kerryn Phelps – but it was cynical move for political advantage, and followed on from the decision of US President Donald Trump to not only recognise Jerusalem as the capital, but also move the US embassy from Tel Aviv as well.

    Ever since Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that Australia would revert to recognising Tel Aviv as the capital – and bearing in mind that the UN doesn’t recognise Jerusalem as the capital, and it’s only recognised by a few countries, including the US and Russia – we’ve mainly heard from the Israeli lobby group in Australia, and they think that it’s a terrible idea, and we’ve only just started hearing from the Palestinian groups in Australia, who welcome the announcement.

    Israeli–Palestinian politics is a very difficult field to navigate – and it might not be as difficult as British politics at the moment – but Penny Wong’s decision brings Australian back into line with the international community, so it seems this is a positive move.

    26 min 15 – The fraud of a Medicare fraud

    Medicare has been in the spotlight this week, with allegations that doctors are scamming the system to the tune of $8 billion per year – it’s not clear how these figures are being calculated – the doctor whose reports are being used as the basis for these figures, Dr Margaret Faux, claimed the figure was possibly $3.6 billion – but she has not suggested it’s fraud and scamming, but honest mistakes by doctors – but the media was quick to label this as a major fraud.

    We do have to be a bit skeptical about all of this – the overall cost of Medicare is $30 billion per year, and it’s hard to accept that more than 25% would be through fraud, and there might also be some vested interests involved here, with Dr Faux also the CEO of Synapse Medical Services, a provider of medical billing systems, and training services for doctors in these billing systems.

    There is going to some fraud and some rorting of any system that involves $30 billion per year, and we have to remember all those cowboy doctors operating those liposuction procedures and charging it all on Medicare – but to suggest there’s $8 billion Medicare fraud going on: there might be something else going on here.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51644010Fri, 21 Oct 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe floods in eastern Australia have been the focus of political attention over the past week, with major flooding events in Victoria, southern New South Wales and the northern parts of Tasmania – there are parts of Australia that going through their...
    In total, that’s eight major floods over the past two years, and as predicted, these extreme events are being more frequent. The previous Coalition government turned a blind eye to climate change, since 2013, and were slow the act when events such as floods and bushfires occurred, and whatever support was given, was granted in a way that favoured them politically.

    This is the second batch of floods in short succession since the Labor government came into office – and we recognise that climate change issues are not going to resolved overnight – but what can the Labor government do that’s different to the previous Coalition government?

    15 min 43 – Goodbye Jerusalem

    And during the week, the Australian government quietly overturned the decision of the Morrison government to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel, and that decision was made in haste in the lead up to the Wentworth byelection in November 2018, and that’s a seat where 16 per cent of the electorate is Jewish.

    That decision didn’t win the seat of Wentworth at that time – it was lost to the independent candidate, Kerryn Phelps – but it was cynical move for political advantage, and followed on from the decision of US President Donald Trump to not only recognise Jerusalem as the capital, but also move the US embassy from Tel Aviv as well.

    Ever since Foreign Minister Penny Wong confirmed that Australia would revert to recognising Tel Aviv as the capital – and bearing in mind that the UN doesn’t recognise Jerusalem as the capital, and it’s only recognised by a few countries, including the US and Russia – we’ve mainly heard from the Israeli lobby group in Australia, and they think that it’s a terrible idea, and we’ve only just started hearing from the Palestinian groups in Australia, who welcome the announcement.

    Israeli–Palestinian politics is a very difficult field to navigate – and it might not be as difficult as British politics at the moment – but Penny Wong’s decision brings Australian back into line with the international community, so it seems this is a positive move.

    26 min 15 – The fraud of a Medicare fraud

    Medicare has been in the spotlight this week, with allegations that doctors are scamming the system to the tune of $8 billion per year – it’s not clear how these figures are being calculated – the doctor whose reports are being used as the basis for these figures, Dr Margaret Faux, claimed the figure was possibly $3.6 billion – but she has not suggested it’s fraud and scamming, but honest mistakes by doctors – but the media was quick to label this as a major fraud.

    We do have to be a bit skeptical about all of this – the overall cost of Medicare is $30 billion per year, and it’s hard to accept that more than 25% would be through fraud, and there might also be some vested interests involved here, with Dr Faux also the CEO of Synapse Medical Services, a provider of medical billing systems, and training services for doctors in these billing systems.

    There is going to some fraud and some rorting of any system that involves $30 billion per year, and we have to remember all those cowboy doctors operating those liposuction procedures and charging it all on Medicare – but to suggest there’s $8 billion Medicare fraud going on: there might be something else going on here.]]>    2560auspol,jerusalem,medicarefalsefull    Media Diversity, Broken Promises and the Return of the Ruby Princesshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/media-diversity-broken-promises-and-the-return-of-the-ruby-princess--51575437
    Australia does have one of the most concentrated media landscapes in the world, dominated by two companies – News Limited and Nine Media – there’s also issues with the Australian Press Council, and that’s funded by the mainstream media, and that’s the place where you can lodge a complaint about the media, and it’s pretty much close to useless, – and generally, the mainstream media in Australia tends to be supportive of conservative political interests. And if you’re not of a conservative persuasion, that’s not good news.

    We’d highly recommend an inquiry into the media in Australia, and you’d expect that this is something that a Labor government would be supportive of, considering they’re usually on the end of most of the attacks from the media, whether they’re in government or Opposition – so what are they waiting for?

    21 min 36 ¬– The Art of the Broken Promise

    Politicians make a lot of promises, but it’s the broken promises that everyone tends to remember. Back in 1996, the former Prime Minister John Howard introduced the idea of core and non-core promises into the political vernacular, and that was after he broke some key election promises after finding out that he couldn’t keep them, and the media at that time seemed to accept this idea.

    There’s been a lot of focus of Stage 3 tax cuts and broken promises – and the media has made it very clear to the public that this will be a big breach of public trust if Labor does repeal the tax cuts, while at the same time, it seems to be pushing them to break this promise well – but there are other areas where the Labor government is pushing the boundaries on what they promised or what they discussed in the last federal election campaign.

    There are a few issues of broken trust up for debate – Labor promised to deliver an anti-corruption commission with teeth, but there’s now a few sticking points about transparency and public hearings; Labor also took the previous Coalition government to task about the secrecy of the National Cabinet – while they didn’t promise to release National Cabinet documents, they’ve closed down debate about making these documents public.

    And they’ve also removed COVID isolation requirements, without releasing the medical evidence from the chief health officer to support this decision – and that’s one area that they also criticised the previous Coalition government on – and it seems that they’re now doing exactly the same.

    All political leaders and all governments are going to caught out on these issues, so why do they keep making the promises they can’t keep, and sometimes keep the promises that they should be getting rid of, such as the Stage 3 tax cuts?

    36 min 36 – The Return of the Ruby Princess

    The class action trial against Carnival PLC has commenced in Sydney, and that’s over the Ruby Princess incident in March 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic, where 663 Australia were infected with COVID, and 28 of those passengers died – and the arguments for the plaintiff are that the entire incident wasn’t an accident and the ship should never have sailed at all.

    There was a special commission of inquiry into the Ruby Princess, and that report was completed in August 2020, but it was a whitewash of a report, and couldn’t hold anyone responsible for the incident, but hopefully this class action trial will shine some more light on these events.

    41 min 40 – The Polls

    And there was also a Resolve Poll that came out during the week – and again, not much difference in the polling from the previous month – Labor has 58% in two-party preferred voting, which means the Coalition is polling at 42% – Albanese is still preferred Prime Minister by 53% to Dutton’s 18%, and the net approval rating is 36 points for Albanese, and Dutton’s is minus 10 points.

    And we have to remember that Albanese has similar figures to Dutton’s at the same point in his leadership against Scott Morrison – today, Albanese is the Prime Minister, and Morrison isn’t – so there is a little ray of hope for Peter Dutton.

    But the interesting issue about this poll is that all key indicators – and that’s economic management, health care, aged care, and education – Labor is way ahead of the Coalition – and it’s even on national security and defence – and economic management and national security and defence are seen more as the issues that are owned by conservative parties – so even though there are issues for the Labor Party, and a lot of pressure piled on by the media and the Opposition, there’s a perception in the electorate that they’re actually doing well – and that of course can change quickly, and might change very quickly after the October Budget is released – but these polls are good for Anthony Albanese, and not so good for Peter Dutton, as they have been ever since he became the Leader of the Opposition.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51575437Fri, 14 Oct 2022 21:00:01 +0000New PoliticsThere have been calls for a parliamentary inquiry into media diversity in Australia, and generally, the behaviour of the mainstream media – and these calls have been made for about 20 years or so. The independent member for Goldstein, Zoe Daniel – and...
    Australia does have one of the most concentrated media landscapes in the world, dominated by two companies – News Limited and Nine Media – there’s also issues with the Australian Press Council, and that’s funded by the mainstream media, and that’s the place where you can lodge a complaint about the media, and it’s pretty much close to useless, – and generally, the mainstream media in Australia tends to be supportive of conservative political interests. And if you’re not of a conservative persuasion, that’s not good news.

    We’d highly recommend an inquiry into the media in Australia, and you’d expect that this is something that a Labor government would be supportive of, considering they’re usually on the end of most of the attacks from the media, whether they’re in government or Opposition – so what are they waiting for?

    21 min 36 ¬– The Art of the Broken Promise

    Politicians make a lot of promises, but it’s the broken promises that everyone tends to remember. Back in 1996, the former Prime Minister John Howard introduced the idea of core and non-core promises into the political vernacular, and that was after he broke some key election promises after finding out that he couldn’t keep them, and the media at that time seemed to accept this idea.

    There’s been a lot of focus of Stage 3 tax cuts and broken promises – and the media has made it very clear to the public that this will be a big breach of public trust if Labor does repeal the tax cuts, while at the same time, it seems to be pushing them to break this promise well – but there are other areas where the Labor government is pushing the boundaries on what they promised or what they discussed in the last federal election campaign.

    There are a few issues of broken trust up for debate – Labor promised to deliver an anti-corruption commission with teeth, but there’s now a few sticking points about transparency and public hearings; Labor also took the previous Coalition government to task about the secrecy of the National Cabinet – while they didn’t promise to release National Cabinet documents, they’ve closed down debate about making these documents public.

    And they’ve also removed COVID isolation requirements, without releasing the medical evidence from the chief health officer to support this decision – and that’s one area that they also criticised the previous Coalition government on – and it seems that they’re now doing exactly the same.

    All political leaders and all governments are going to caught out on these issues, so why do they keep making the promises they can’t keep, and sometimes keep the promises that they should be getting rid of, such as the Stage 3 tax cuts?

    36 min 36 – The Return of the Ruby Princess

    The class action trial against Carnival PLC has commenced in Sydney, and that’s over the Ruby Princess incident in March 2020 at the beginning of the pandemic, where 663 Australia were infected with COVID, and 28 of those passengers died – and the arguments for the plaintiff are that the entire incident wasn’t an accident and the ship should never have sailed at all.

    There was a special commission of inquiry into the Ruby Princess, and that report was completed in August 2020, but it was a whitewash of a report, and couldn’t hold anyone responsible for the incident, but hopefully this class action trial will shine some more light on these...]]>    2830auspol,murdochroyalcommissionfalsefull    CPAC culture of complaint, the Frontier Wars, and Liz Truss does Labor a big tax favourhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/cpac-culture-of-complaint-the-frontier-wars-and-liz-truss-does-labor-a-big-tax-favour--51498475
    A culture of complaint but without any solutions and without any responsibilities. They’re anti-socialist, anti-woke, anti-republic, anti-cancel culture. What are they actually for? Is there anything positive in their agenda? No. It’s destructive, not constructive. These are cashed-up babies who never really grew and are suffering from arrested development. Sure, there are the fools on all sides of politics, but this chapter of CPAC is on a special level of its own.

    Should the CPAC be left to its own devices and wither away? No, every argument they put forward can be easily rebutted, but they’re supported by the wealth class, who are only too happy to fund this level of unhinged stupidity to sway opinions in the electorate.

    Just as special CPAC guest, Nigel Farage, managed to do with Brexit – he extracted Britain from the European Union, and left it teetering on the edge of disaster and obscurity. In the same way Australia conservatives embraced Lord Monckton in the early 2010s to manufacture anger against Labor’s carbon pricing mechanism, yet another failed British reject is sent off to antipodes to spread his own brand of lies, racism, classism and hate.

    This nihilistic agenda has to be pushed back at every opportunity.

    15 min 50 – The Frontier Wars

    The Australian War Memorial has announced that it will expand the recognition of the different frontier wars that occurred in Australia – and they were the conflicts between white settlers and police on one side, and Indigenous people – and this is after sustained criticism over many years that the War Memorial mainly focussed its attention on overseas wars and totally ignored the wars against Indigenous people that commenced a few months after European settlement or invasion in 1788, and lasted until the 1930s.

    And much of this has been documented – there were the Hawkesbury and Nepean Wars, the Bathurst War, there was the Black Wars in Tasmania, Battle of Pinjarra, the battles in the Kimberley region – and there’s many more that have been documented as well – and at least 40,000 Indigenous people died, and around 3000 settlers.

    And the effects of these frontiers wars and violence are still affecting Indigenous people, a treaty or a formal end to these wars had never been made – most people aren’t aware of the details of these frontier wars – there’s still more that needs to be done in this space, but the Australian War Memorial expanding this knowledge to the general public is a good start.

    27 min 22 – Liz Truss and Tax Lessons for Labor

    We don’t usually comment on British politics, but the new British Prime Minister, Liz Truss, may have just done the Australian Labor Party a huge favour, and that was when she announced that she was going to provide a tax cut for high income earners in the UK – abolishing the tax rate of 45% for incomes over £150,000.

    It’s safe to say that not very many people were happy with this decision – the British pound dropped dramatically, there was a revolt within the Conservative Party, and there was a political backlash within the British electorate, which resulted in opinions polls showing 54% support for the British Labour Party, and just 21% support for the Tories.

    Abolishing the top tax rate meant that people earning over £150K would be paying 40% in tax, so it’s not a major adjustment, but that’s the revolt that occurred by dropping the highest tax bracket by 5%.

    The Stage 3 tax cuts, which are supposedly coming in at the beginning of the 2024/25 tax years, propose remove the 37% tax band, and just having the 32.5% tax band for incomes between $45K and $200K – so it’s a different type of tax cut, but it’s still significant, and actually worse than what the UK proposed – Anthony Albanese and the Labor government are starting to face a lot of pressure over the Stage 3 tax cuts, even though it’s not their policy – but should they looking at what’s happening in the UK to guide their decision making?]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51498475Fri, 07 Oct 2022 21:00:01 +0000New PoliticsThe Conservative Political Action Conference rolled into Sydney last week, and it’s an extreme libertarian group who are maniacally angry, loud, abrasive, in-your-face, and filled with endless complaints about everything in their sights. A culture...
    A culture of complaint but without any solutions and without any responsibilities. They’re anti-socialist, anti-woke, anti-republic, anti-cancel culture. What are they actually for? Is there anything positive in their agenda? No. It’s destructive, not constructive. These are cashed-up babies who never really grew and are suffering from arrested development. Sure, there are the fools on all sides of politics, but this chapter of CPAC is on a special level of its own.

    Should the CPAC be left to its own devices and wither away? No, every argument they put forward can be easily rebutted, but they’re supported by the wealth class, who are only too happy to fund this level of unhinged stupidity to sway opinions in the electorate.

    Just as special CPAC guest, Nigel Farage, managed to do with Brexit – he extracted Britain from the European Union, and left it teetering on the edge of disaster and obscurity. In the same way Australia conservatives embraced Lord Monckton in the early 2010s to manufacture anger against Labor’s carbon pricing mechanism, yet another failed British reject is sent off to antipodes to spread his own brand of lies, racism, classism and hate.

    This nihilistic agenda has to be pushed back at every opportunity.

    15 min 50 – The Frontier Wars

    The Australian War Memorial has announced that it will expand the recognition of the different frontier wars that occurred in Australia – and they were the conflicts between white settlers and police on one side, and Indigenous people – and this is after sustained criticism over many years that the War Memorial mainly focussed its attention on overseas wars and totally ignored the wars against Indigenous people that commenced a few months after European settlement or invasion in 1788, and lasted until the 1930s.

    And much of this has been documented – there were the Hawkesbury and Nepean Wars, the Bathurst War, there was the Black Wars in Tasmania, Battle of Pinjarra, the battles in the Kimberley region – and there’s many more that have been documented as well – and at least 40,000 Indigenous people died, and around 3000 settlers.

    And the effects of these frontiers wars and violence are still affecting Indigenous people, a treaty or a formal end to these wars had never been made – most people aren’t aware of the details of these frontier wars – there’s still more that needs to be done in this space, but the Australian War Memorial expanding this knowledge to the general public is a good start.

    27 min 22 – Liz Truss and Tax Lessons for Labor

    We don’t usually comment on British politics, but the new British Prime Minister, Liz Truss, may have just done the Australian Labor Party a huge favour, and that was when she announced that she was going to provide a tax cut for high income earners in the UK – abolishing the tax rate of 45% for incomes over £150,000.

    It’s safe to say that not very many people were happy with this decision – the British pound dropped dramatically, there was a revolt within the Conservative Party, and there was a political backlash within the British electorate, which resulted in opinions polls showing 54% support for the British Labour Party, and just 21% support for the Tories.

    Abolishing the top tax rate meant that people earning over £150K would be paying 40% in tax, so it’s not a major adjustment, but that’s the revolt that occurred by dropping the highest tax bracket by 5%.

    The Stage 3 tax cuts, which are supposedly coming in at the beginning of the 2024/25 tax years, propose remove the 37% tax band, and just having the 32.5% tax band for incomes between $45K and $200K – so...]]>    2562auspol,cpac,liztrussfalsefull    Anti-Corruption Commission One Step Closer, Lambie Mischief, And Dutton’s Makeoverhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/anti-corruption-commission-one-step-closer-lambie-mischief-and-dutton-s-makeover--51423742
    It can never be underestimated how far the mainstream media will go to de-legitimise this Labor government, with the Australian Financial Review fabricating a story where, supposedly, Albanese was solely negotiating with the Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton, on the anti-corruption commission, and sidelining the Australian Greens and the teal independents. And this was going to result in a watered-down anti-corruption commission, and cause trouble for the Labor government in trying to get its legislation passed by the Australian Greens in the Senate.

    The only problem: it wasn’t true. The crossbench seems to be very satisfied with the legislation, although there are sticking points on public hearings, protections for whistle blowers and a guarantee of funding.

    Legacy media has had a habit of supporting conservative parties, even when there’s an inept leader such as Dutton. He’s currently going through a makeover, and being rebranded into a leader who’s more palatable to the public. While we can never underestimate any political leader – John Howard was told he could never be Prime Minister, until he became Prime Minister. Tony Abbott too. And Scott Morrison. Donald Trump was an idiot who could never become President of the United States, until he became the President of the United States.

    Any politician can become the leader of a country, given the right circumstances, and with the incessant support of the media. Which is currently happening with Peter Dutton. With any political issue; Dutton is the go-to for the media. Problems with an Optus hack? What does Peter Dutton think about this? Cost of living issues? Let’s speak to Dutton, he knows the answer. Petrol excises? Dutton, he’s out go-to man, he speaks the truth.

    But polishing a turd has its limits – although the popular science show MythBusters once did show that it’s definitely possible to “polish the turd”, it’s different for Dutton. He’s been around for far too long and has accumulated such a negative public image, that it’s hard to see how this could change. But aside from this, where’s the gravitas? What’s the intellectual and political substance behind the man? Where’s the creative curiosity?

    There isn’t any, and this is the failing of Dutton: it’s all anti-union; anti-immigration; anti-Labor; anti-intellectual, littered with the racist undertones. And it’s not a recipe for success in contemporary Australia, which discarded this type of thinking at the recent federal election in May 2022.

    Senator Jacqui Lambie has issued an apology – of sorts – for voting for Stage 3 tax cuts all the way back in July 2019. She’s made the claim that the economy can’t support it – which is absolutely true – but why has she waited until now? The economy has been tanking and was in an incredible dire position in 2019 when she voted for these tax cuts – as it is in 2022.

    Lambie is an opportunist – which is what you’d expect from a Senator, trying to get the best deal for their state; in this case, Tasmania. And Tasmania had a $157 million debt waived for her support for the Morrison’s government Stage 3 tax cuts legislation. But she’s never owned up to what the deal was for repealing the Medivac legislation – pushing that idea that people just had to trust her – even though she claimed in 2021 that there was no deal and nothing was negotiated.

    Lambie can’t be trusted on these key issues but it’s also unclear what she is trying to achieve with these latest ramblings. It’s a mystery.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51423742Fri, 30 Sep 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe anti-corruption commission is one step closer to reality – the Labor government tabled its Bill in Parliament this week, despite all the claims from conservative media that the Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, was stonewalling the commission and...
    It can never be underestimated how far the mainstream media will go to de-legitimise this Labor government, with the Australian Financial Review fabricating a story where, supposedly, Albanese was solely negotiating with the Opposition Leader, Peter Dutton, on the anti-corruption commission, and sidelining the Australian Greens and the teal independents. And this was going to result in a watered-down anti-corruption commission, and cause trouble for the Labor government in trying to get its legislation passed by the Australian Greens in the Senate.

    The only problem: it wasn’t true. The crossbench seems to be very satisfied with the legislation, although there are sticking points on public hearings, protections for whistle blowers and a guarantee of funding.

    Legacy media has had a habit of supporting conservative parties, even when there’s an inept leader such as Dutton. He’s currently going through a makeover, and being rebranded into a leader who’s more palatable to the public. While we can never underestimate any political leader – John Howard was told he could never be Prime Minister, until he became Prime Minister. Tony Abbott too. And Scott Morrison. Donald Trump was an idiot who could never become President of the United States, until he became the President of the United States.

    Any politician can become the leader of a country, given the right circumstances, and with the incessant support of the media. Which is currently happening with Peter Dutton. With any political issue; Dutton is the go-to for the media. Problems with an Optus hack? What does Peter Dutton think about this? Cost of living issues? Let’s speak to Dutton, he knows the answer. Petrol excises? Dutton, he’s out go-to man, he speaks the truth.

    But polishing a turd has its limits – although the popular science show MythBusters once did show that it’s definitely possible to “polish the turd”, it’s different for Dutton. He’s been around for far too long and has accumulated such a negative public image, that it’s hard to see how this could change. But aside from this, where’s the gravitas? What’s the intellectual and political substance behind the man? Where’s the creative curiosity?

    There isn’t any, and this is the failing of Dutton: it’s all anti-union; anti-immigration; anti-Labor; anti-intellectual, littered with the racist undertones. And it’s not a recipe for success in contemporary Australia, which discarded this type of thinking at the recent federal election in May 2022.

    Senator Jacqui Lambie has issued an apology – of sorts – for voting for Stage 3 tax cuts all the way back in July 2019. She’s made the claim that the economy can’t support it – which is absolutely true – but why has she waited until now? The economy has been tanking and was in an incredible dire position in 2019 when she voted for these tax cuts – as it is in 2022.

    Lambie is an opportunist – which is what you’d expect from a Senator, trying to get the best deal for their state; in this case, Tasmania. And Tasmania had a $157 million debt waived for her support for the Morrison’s government Stage 3 tax cuts legislation. But she’s never owned up to what the deal was for repealing the Medivac legislation – pushing that idea that people just had to trust her – even though she claimed in 2021 that there was no deal and nothing was negotiated.

    Lambie can’t be trusted on these key issues but it’s also unclear what she is trying to achieve with these latest ramblings. It’s a mystery.]]>    2480auspol,naccfalsefull    A Taxing Budget And Renewables, Stacking The Boards, And A Long Road To The Republichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-taxing-budget-and-renewables-stacking-the-boards-and-a-long-road-to-the-republic--51358595
    Already, the media and the Opposition are pushing the idea that Labor is the party of big taxes and spending, and not to be trusted with managing finances. What they ignore is that the three biggest taxing governments in the post-war period are the Howard, Abbott and Morrison governments – and in the case of the Morrison government, not much of substance to show for all of their spending.

    But, it’s not the amount of taxes that matters, it’s the quality of spending. And there’s not much evidence of quality over the past nine years. Of course, we’ll have to see what the Labor government will spend taxpayer’s money on in the Budget, but surely it won’t be as profligate as Morrison’s final term in office.

    And how super is Albanese’s renewables superpower? It’s rhetoric that was pushed during the May election campaign, but it’s time for this to be matched with action. The Australian Greens have recommended the $1.9 billion the previous government had allocated to a “gas-led recovery” – a strange choice for a response to a pandemic – be re-allocated to renewable energy. And it makes sense: it fits perfectly into the Labor government’s agenda, and it needs to take this first step if Australia does want to become a renewables superpower. If the Labor government is actually serious about this…

    The former Prime Minister – Tony Abbott – has been re-appointed to the board of the Australian War Memorial. Is this a lost opportunity for Labor and should they start putting in their “own people”? No, it should be the best and the most appropriate people for the position – it’s just that the Coalition always inserts its own conservative people and supporters into high-powered government boards, without any concern whether these are the right people. And it results in $500 million being allocated to a renovation at the War Memorial, without a question about whether this is value for money. Why not spend this money on the veterans of war, rather than an already overblown budget for a memorial that glorifies conflict?

    It’s actually mind-boggling to see how many breaches of protocol Scott Morrison seemed to immerse himself in – a sole-person committee where he could decide whether an official Cabinet meeting had taken place – or not – and therefore, he could keep any details of a meeting a secret for 20 years. It’s almost like Alice In Wonderland. Except this was a real Prime Minister. There were 739 ‘meetings’ and 665 of these are actually unaccounted for. 665. It might not be so important to find out the details of these unaccountable meetings but it is important that someone of the calibre of Scott Morrison is never allowed anywhere near Parliament again.

    And with a return to normal life after the insane and incessant media coverage of the British monarch, we can also start to have normal discussions about Australia’s transition to a republic. But as much as we’d like it to happen soon, it’s probably not going to be enacted for some time to come. In our estimation: with a benign and invisible King? Perhaps in 2026 or 2027. However, if there’s more scandals to come through (hint: Prince Andrew), perhaps 2024, at the earliest. There’s still a long road ahead.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51358595Fri, 23 Sep 2022 22:00:03 +0000New PoliticsAfter a fortnight where most of Anglosphere was preoccupied with the death of a British monarch, life is getting back to normal and to the real things that matter: there’s a Budget coming up soon, and there’s been a hint from the Treasurer, Jim...
    Already, the media and the Opposition are pushing the idea that Labor is the party of big taxes and spending, and not to be trusted with managing finances. What they ignore is that the three biggest taxing governments in the post-war period are the Howard, Abbott and Morrison governments – and in the case of the Morrison government, not much of substance to show for all of their spending.

    But, it’s not the amount of taxes that matters, it’s the quality of spending. And there’s not much evidence of quality over the past nine years. Of course, we’ll have to see what the Labor government will spend taxpayer’s money on in the Budget, but surely it won’t be as profligate as Morrison’s final term in office.

    And how super is Albanese’s renewables superpower? It’s rhetoric that was pushed during the May election campaign, but it’s time for this to be matched with action. The Australian Greens have recommended the $1.9 billion the previous government had allocated to a “gas-led recovery” – a strange choice for a response to a pandemic – be re-allocated to renewable energy. And it makes sense: it fits perfectly into the Labor government’s agenda, and it needs to take this first step if Australia does want to become a renewables superpower. If the Labor government is actually serious about this…

    The former Prime Minister – Tony Abbott – has been re-appointed to the board of the Australian War Memorial. Is this a lost opportunity for Labor and should they start putting in their “own people”? No, it should be the best and the most appropriate people for the position – it’s just that the Coalition always inserts its own conservative people and supporters into high-powered government boards, without any concern whether these are the right people. And it results in $500 million being allocated to a renovation at the War Memorial, without a question about whether this is value for money. Why not spend this money on the veterans of war, rather than an already overblown budget for a memorial that glorifies conflict?

    It’s actually mind-boggling to see how many breaches of protocol Scott Morrison seemed to immerse himself in – a sole-person committee where he could decide whether an official Cabinet meeting had taken place – or not – and therefore, he could keep any details of a meeting a secret for 20 years. It’s almost like Alice In Wonderland. Except this was a real Prime Minister. There were 739 ‘meetings’ and 665 of these are actually unaccounted for. 665. It might not be so important to find out the details of these unaccountable meetings but it is important that someone of the calibre of Scott Morrison is never allowed anywhere near Parliament again.

    And with a return to normal life after the insane and incessant media coverage of the British monarch, we can also start to have normal discussions about Australia’s transition to a republic. But as much as we’d like it to happen soon, it’s probably not going to be enacted for some time to come. In our estimation: with a benign and invisible King? Perhaps in 2026 or 2027. However, if there’s more scandals to come through (hint: Prince Andrew), perhaps 2024, at the earliest. There’s still a long road ahead.]]>    2908auspol,budget,republicnowfalsefull    End of Monarchy: Time to unleash the beast and release the Republichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/end-of-monarchy-time-to-unleash-the-beast-and-release-the-republic--51278520
    The Queen has died, and people can pay their respects if they wish to, but it’s time for Australia to move on with its own future and its own destiny – it can’t be hamstrung by some dysfunctional family in a faraway country that couldn’t really care about what happens in Australia.

    And it needs to happen soon. Several years ago, the former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull proclaimed “we are all Elizabethans”, and suggested that the right time for Australia to move towards a republic was after the passing of the Queen. That time has now arrived: what are we waiting for? And to use the words of the current Prime Minister Anthony Albanese when he described the need for the Voice To Parliament, “if not now, when?”.

    Australia is republican in nature, but there are tight strings holding us to the monarchy, and the mainstream media is a part of that system that keeps nailing these strings down. The media reportage after the Queen died was incessant, one dimensional and left no room to move for alternative perspectives or other voices to outline their reasons for why they might not be so enthused about the role of the British monarchy within Australian society, or the death of the Queen: Indigenous people; Irish Catholics living in Australia; Fijian Indians; Indians from the sub-continent; republicans.

    And this is how soft power is exercised: dissenting voices are removed, and not even considered; unknown protocols are implemented; everyone is told what they need to think and feel about the Queen. But who are we trying to avoid offending? The Queen? The royal family? British sympathisers in Australia? Monarchists?

    History needs to be an unvarnished truth: no one is perfect, not even the Queen of England, the Queen of Britain, the Queen of Australia. We should receive a clearer understanding and fuller picture of political figures: the colour and shades of grey, not the overloaded black and white clichés that we’ve been presented with through the non-stop and uncritical media transmission over the past week.

    Where does this leave an Australian republic? Today is the day the path towards the republic commences: it can’t wait until after the Queen’s funeral, or wait until the new King settles in, just to “see what he’s like”.

    And not just any kind of republic: the current Constitution is broken; it needs to be repaired. Today is the day to talk about the republic.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51278520Fri, 16 Sep 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAustralia lost a head of state last week, and gained a new one, even though nobody voted for King Charles, and nobody was asked about it. And this will keep happening until Australia becomes a republic. The Queen has died, and people can pay their...
    The Queen has died, and people can pay their respects if they wish to, but it’s time for Australia to move on with its own future and its own destiny – it can’t be hamstrung by some dysfunctional family in a faraway country that couldn’t really care about what happens in Australia.

    And it needs to happen soon. Several years ago, the former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull proclaimed “we are all Elizabethans”, and suggested that the right time for Australia to move towards a republic was after the passing of the Queen. That time has now arrived: what are we waiting for? And to use the words of the current Prime Minister Anthony Albanese when he described the need for the Voice To Parliament, “if not now, when?”.

    Australia is republican in nature, but there are tight strings holding us to the monarchy, and the mainstream media is a part of that system that keeps nailing these strings down. The media reportage after the Queen died was incessant, one dimensional and left no room to move for alternative perspectives or other voices to outline their reasons for why they might not be so enthused about the role of the British monarchy within Australian society, or the death of the Queen: Indigenous people; Irish Catholics living in Australia; Fijian Indians; Indians from the sub-continent; republicans.

    And this is how soft power is exercised: dissenting voices are removed, and not even considered; unknown protocols are implemented; everyone is told what they need to think and feel about the Queen. But who are we trying to avoid offending? The Queen? The royal family? British sympathisers in Australia? Monarchists?

    History needs to be an unvarnished truth: no one is perfect, not even the Queen of England, the Queen of Britain, the Queen of Australia. We should receive a clearer understanding and fuller picture of political figures: the colour and shades of grey, not the overloaded black and white clichés that we’ve been presented with through the non-stop and uncritical media transmission over the past week.

    Where does this leave an Australian republic? Today is the day the path towards the republic commences: it can’t wait until after the Queen’s funeral, or wait until the new King settles in, just to “see what he’s like”.

    And not just any kind of republic: the current Constitution is broken; it needs to be repaired. Today is the day to talk about the republic.]]>    2566auspol,republicnowfalsefull    The troubles over the horizon, anti-union propaganda, a bad Governor–General and Liberal Party future up in the airhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-troubles-over-the-horizon-anti-union-propaganda-a-bad-governor-general-and-liberal-party-future-up-in-the-air--51199948
    But now the difficult part – the Budget. Anthony Albanese has been pushing out the messages that we’re in difficult economic circumstances and because there’s a trillion dollar national government deficit, high inflation and a wide range of other economic issues, the Budget will be a particularly harsh one. Governments accumulate baggage as time goes on – that’s the nature of politics – and how they manage the October Budget will determine the rest of this term of Parliament.

    The media has never supported union action – even when there’s a just cause – they’ve always depicted any form of action as moves by ungrateful and greedy workers – forced upon by the also greedy unions – greatly inconveniencing the public. And, of course, this theme is also pushed by the Liberal Party, with their rhetoric of “union thugs” and making it seem as those unionists and workers are soiling the wheels of capitalism and affecting the wellbeing of the economy.

    Yes, a one-day strike is an inconvenience to the public – but low pay and poor working conditions are an inconvenience to workers every single day of the year. Union bashing isn’t good for anyone and it’s a pity the journalists who rail against unions don’t understand where their sick pay, holiday pay, higher wages, leave entitlements and working conditions, came from. A clue: it’s not from the goodwill of their employers.

    And the unbridled ambitions of Scott Morrison have resulted in another victim: the Governor–General, David Hurley. It seems his silence on the secret ministries he signed off on for Morrison did have a price: $18 million, in the form of some kind of obscure leadership program. We’re not suggesting any corruption here, but it does seem like it. The Governor–General does have some questions to answer.

    The poor opinion polls are continuing for the Liberal Party – this is not the end; we’re only four months into this parliamentary term, but it’s an Opposition with few redeeming features and seemingly bereft of ideas. Using “Kermit the Frog” to lampoon Albanese is their idea of a political strategy, and if this continues, it’s not going to end well for the Liberal Party. And of top of this, there are Pentecostal groups who are seizing control of branches in Victoria and South Australia.

    It seems like a long hard road ahead for the Liberal Party.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51199948Fri, 09 Sep 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe federal government is still feeling the warm inner glow after the Jobs and Skills Summit, which was the first public display of the consensus politics the Prime Minister talked about during the federal election campaign. And getting corporate,...
    But now the difficult part – the Budget. Anthony Albanese has been pushing out the messages that we’re in difficult economic circumstances and because there’s a trillion dollar national government deficit, high inflation and a wide range of other economic issues, the Budget will be a particularly harsh one. Governments accumulate baggage as time goes on – that’s the nature of politics – and how they manage the October Budget will determine the rest of this term of Parliament.

    The media has never supported union action – even when there’s a just cause – they’ve always depicted any form of action as moves by ungrateful and greedy workers – forced upon by the also greedy unions – greatly inconveniencing the public. And, of course, this theme is also pushed by the Liberal Party, with their rhetoric of “union thugs” and making it seem as those unionists and workers are soiling the wheels of capitalism and affecting the wellbeing of the economy.

    Yes, a one-day strike is an inconvenience to the public – but low pay and poor working conditions are an inconvenience to workers every single day of the year. Union bashing isn’t good for anyone and it’s a pity the journalists who rail against unions don’t understand where their sick pay, holiday pay, higher wages, leave entitlements and working conditions, came from. A clue: it’s not from the goodwill of their employers.

    And the unbridled ambitions of Scott Morrison have resulted in another victim: the Governor–General, David Hurley. It seems his silence on the secret ministries he signed off on for Morrison did have a price: $18 million, in the form of some kind of obscure leadership program. We’re not suggesting any corruption here, but it does seem like it. The Governor–General does have some questions to answer.

    The poor opinion polls are continuing for the Liberal Party – this is not the end; we’re only four months into this parliamentary term, but it’s an Opposition with few redeeming features and seemingly bereft of ideas. Using “Kermit the Frog” to lampoon Albanese is their idea of a political strategy, and if this continues, it’s not going to end well for the Liberal Party. And of top of this, there are Pentecostal groups who are seizing control of branches in Victoria and South Australia.

    It seems like a long hard road ahead for the Liberal Party.]]>    2784auspol,governorgeneral,liberalpartyfalsefull    The sinister Robodebt scheme, Labor’s 100-day anniversary and the jobs/skills crisishttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-sinister-robodebt-scheme-labor-s-100-day-anniversary-and-the-jobs-skills-crisis--51115150
    All up, it’s a scheme which cost taxpayers $1.8 billion, over 2000 people suicided from the stress and anxiety created by the scheme, and over 470,000 were asked to pay money to the government, for debts which they never owed. It’s rare for governments to create such a high level of extortion upon its own citizens, but that’s exactly what the Coalition government achieved between 2015–2020.

    And their response? To double down and blame Labor for the scheme, even though the scheme was introduced two years after they left office in 2013. And for Peter Dutton to also claim that Albanese’s Royal Commission is a ‘witch hunt’. It’s essential for anti-human and insidious – and illegal – governments acts to be investigated, to ensure that they can never happen again but, just like they did in government, the Coalition always looks to play the blame game. It’s always someone’s fault.

    The Labor government has been in office for 100 days and is travelling well – but it’s hard not to travel well in this period because there’s not much that can go wrong in such a short amount of time. Problems accumulate for governments as the years roll on, and it’s still too early to assess how well Labor is travelling.

    One issue for sure is the conundrum of the economically irresponsible Stage 3 tax cuts and the rate of the Jobseeker payment. Labor hounded the previous government over the low rate of Jobseeker – $40 per day – but now they’re in government, they’re saying that it’s fiscally irresponsible at this stage to raise it any higher.

    Raising Jobseeker to $65 per day – which is a rate broadly supported by the business sector and many people in the community (and the Labor Party too, when they were in Opposition) – will cost $3 billion per year. The Stage 3 tax cuts will cost between $20–30 billion per year, so it’s a strange hill for Labor prepare to die on.

    It’s also irresponsible to campaign so vehemently on an issue in Opposition, and do the opposite in government and Labor will have a large credibility problem on equity and fairness – and on key Labor values – if it continues down this path.

    And the Jobs and Skills Summit is over and Labor now hopes to create a pathway for low unemployment, secure well paid jobs, expanding employment opportunities, addressing skill shortages, maximizing jobs from renewable energy and the digital economy and addressing equal opportunity and equal pay for women.

    These are noble intentions but it will take many years to see if the summit was a success. The Coalition – once again – decided to deal itself out of relevance and felt that it was more important to shout from the sidelines, rather than be a productive part of future solutions. It’s their choice, but with this approach of negative carping and opposing everything in sight – electric utes, unions, royal commissions, jobs and skills (to name just a few issues among many), it seems that Peter Dutton is preparing the Liberal Party for a long stint in Opposition. And seems quite happy to do this.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51115150Fri, 02 Sep 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsRobodebt was one of the most disastrous acts of public administration in Australia’s history and the condemnation has arrived from all sides of politics – former Prime Minister, Malcolm Turnbull, Labor, the Australian Greens, the federal court – and...
    All up, it’s a scheme which cost taxpayers $1.8 billion, over 2000 people suicided from the stress and anxiety created by the scheme, and over 470,000 were asked to pay money to the government, for debts which they never owed. It’s rare for governments to create such a high level of extortion upon its own citizens, but that’s exactly what the Coalition government achieved between 2015–2020.

    And their response? To double down and blame Labor for the scheme, even though the scheme was introduced two years after they left office in 2013. And for Peter Dutton to also claim that Albanese’s Royal Commission is a ‘witch hunt’. It’s essential for anti-human and insidious – and illegal – governments acts to be investigated, to ensure that they can never happen again but, just like they did in government, the Coalition always looks to play the blame game. It’s always someone’s fault.

    The Labor government has been in office for 100 days and is travelling well – but it’s hard not to travel well in this period because there’s not much that can go wrong in such a short amount of time. Problems accumulate for governments as the years roll on, and it’s still too early to assess how well Labor is travelling.

    One issue for sure is the conundrum of the economically irresponsible Stage 3 tax cuts and the rate of the Jobseeker payment. Labor hounded the previous government over the low rate of Jobseeker – $40 per day – but now they’re in government, they’re saying that it’s fiscally irresponsible at this stage to raise it any higher.

    Raising Jobseeker to $65 per day – which is a rate broadly supported by the business sector and many people in the community (and the Labor Party too, when they were in Opposition) – will cost $3 billion per year. The Stage 3 tax cuts will cost between $20–30 billion per year, so it’s a strange hill for Labor prepare to die on.

    It’s also irresponsible to campaign so vehemently on an issue in Opposition, and do the opposite in government and Labor will have a large credibility problem on equity and fairness – and on key Labor values – if it continues down this path.

    And the Jobs and Skills Summit is over and Labor now hopes to create a pathway for low unemployment, secure well paid jobs, expanding employment opportunities, addressing skill shortages, maximizing jobs from renewable energy and the digital economy and addressing equal opportunity and equal pay for women.

    These are noble intentions but it will take many years to see if the summit was a success. The Coalition – once again – decided to deal itself out of relevance and felt that it was more important to shout from the sidelines, rather than be a productive part of future solutions. It’s their choice, but with this approach of negative carping and opposing everything in sight – electric utes, unions, royal commissions, jobs and skills (to name just a few issues among many), it seems that Peter Dutton is preparing the Liberal Party for a long stint in Opposition. And seems quite happy to do this.]]>    2594auspolfalsefull    The Attack on Australia’s Democracy and The Diminishing Division of Joyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-attack-on-australia-s-democracy-and-the-diminishing-division-of-joy--51028886
    Democracies depend on people of good will, but our system shows that it doesn’t cater for people of ill will or ulterior motivations. Morrison proved to be one of these bad seeds and laws will need to be enacted to ensure this kind of secrecy in government never occurs again.

    During the 2022 federal election campaign, the Liberal Party claimed “it won’t be easy under Albanese”, but it’s very easy at the moment, with the Prime Minister – and the Labor Party – riding high in the opinion polls. It won’t last forever, of course, but it seems that the Liberal Party is keen to stay in the doldrums and continue with their ‘business as usual’ approach of opposition for opposition’s sake, and quickly adopting a culture of complaint, rejecting everything – even the good ideas – because this, apparently, represents their best chance of electoral success.

    But looking at the results of the 2021 Western Australia election – the Liberal Party reduced to just two seats – and the diabolical status of the Victoria branch of the Liberal Party – it’s a foolish decision. If the party wants to gain political relevance again, it needs to change tack. But does Peter Dutton have the ability to do this?

    And what does News Corporation have against Joy Division? Usually, nothing. But if Anthony Albanese wears a Joy Division T-shirt and goes to a gig at the Enmore Theatre, it’s not very prime ministerial, and it’s unbecoming. It’s an outrage. Perhaps Murdoch’s minions need more joy, and less division. It will be good for the soul.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51028886Fri, 26 Aug 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAs the rumblings of Scott Morrison’s secret ministers become louder, the Liberal Party – and their friends in the media – are keen to dismiss Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s decision to hold an inquiry into how and why these appointments were ever...
    Democracies depend on people of good will, but our system shows that it doesn’t cater for people of ill will or ulterior motivations. Morrison proved to be one of these bad seeds and laws will need to be enacted to ensure this kind of secrecy in government never occurs again.

    During the 2022 federal election campaign, the Liberal Party claimed “it won’t be easy under Albanese”, but it’s very easy at the moment, with the Prime Minister – and the Labor Party – riding high in the opinion polls. It won’t last forever, of course, but it seems that the Liberal Party is keen to stay in the doldrums and continue with their ‘business as usual’ approach of opposition for opposition’s sake, and quickly adopting a culture of complaint, rejecting everything – even the good ideas – because this, apparently, represents their best chance of electoral success.

    But looking at the results of the 2021 Western Australia election – the Liberal Party reduced to just two seats – and the diabolical status of the Victoria branch of the Liberal Party – it’s a foolish decision. If the party wants to gain political relevance again, it needs to change tack. But does Peter Dutton have the ability to do this?

    And what does News Corporation have against Joy Division? Usually, nothing. But if Anthony Albanese wears a Joy Division T-shirt and goes to a gig at the Enmore Theatre, it’s not very prime ministerial, and it’s unbecoming. It’s an outrage. Perhaps Murdoch’s minions need more joy, and less division. It will be good for the soul.]]>    2487auspolfalsefull    The Secret Life of Scott Morrison and Exit Stage Left For Stage 3 Tax Cuts?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-secret-life-of-scott-morrison-and-exit-stage-left-for-stage-3-tax-cuts--50957624
    Secrecy and low levels of accountability – or in Morrison’s case, no accountability at all – are the hallmarks of autocratic societies, and are not the basis of democratic governments. It is of great concern that two journalists from News Corporation knew of these arrangements at the time, which remained a secret to everyone except for Morrison, David Hurley, the Attorney–General, the Minister for Health – and certainly remained a secret to the Australian public.

    For sure, these two journalists are the reason why the public now knows about Morrison’s secret appointments, but they sat on this knowledge for well over two years, and decided to release it only after Morrison and the Coalition was out of government, and safe in the knowledge that it wouldn’t spoil the Coalition’s re-election chances at the 2022 federal election.

    Australia’s mainstream media is among the most mediocre and corrupt in the western world, and this is another example of how vested interests will always act to protect conservative governments and leaders, even when there is clear evidence they have acted improperly and, possible, corruptly.

    The only clear course of action is for Morrison to resign from Parliament, and Hurley to resign from the position of Governor–General: there is no public trust for either of them and both of their positions are untenable.

    And should Labor repeal the Stage 3 tax cuts? Morally, ethically and economically, yes, they should. It’s a tax cut legislated by the Coalition, it’s not Labor policy, and it’s not a part of the Labor Party’s philosophy to provide massive tax cuts to high income earners and virtually nothing to low and middle income earners.

    So, what are they waiting for? The big issue is that, historically, any politician or political party that repeals a promised tax cut is asking for political trouble, irrespective of how valid or economically responsible it might be for the circumstances of the day. It gives the mainstream media – most of whom would be the beneficiaries of tax cuts – and the Opposition of the day to weaponise against the Labor Party, and they’d be shouting about it from the rooftops everyday until the next election.

    The Labor Party doesn’t have enough political capital to repeal the Stage 3 tax cuts and, perhaps, no party every would. For the Albanese government, keeping the Stage 3 tax cuts is the lesser of two problems: they’ll have to recoup the $157 billion of lost revenue in other ways.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50957624Fri, 19 Aug 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIrrespective of how much effort conservatives and the mainstream media are putting into downplaying the significance of the secret ministries of former Prime Minister Scott Morrison, the fact that the two people at the apex of Australia’s political...
    Secrecy and low levels of accountability – or in Morrison’s case, no accountability at all – are the hallmarks of autocratic societies, and are not the basis of democratic governments. It is of great concern that two journalists from News Corporation knew of these arrangements at the time, which remained a secret to everyone except for Morrison, David Hurley, the Attorney–General, the Minister for Health – and certainly remained a secret to the Australian public.

    For sure, these two journalists are the reason why the public now knows about Morrison’s secret appointments, but they sat on this knowledge for well over two years, and decided to release it only after Morrison and the Coalition was out of government, and safe in the knowledge that it wouldn’t spoil the Coalition’s re-election chances at the 2022 federal election.

    Australia’s mainstream media is among the most mediocre and corrupt in the western world, and this is another example of how vested interests will always act to protect conservative governments and leaders, even when there is clear evidence they have acted improperly and, possible, corruptly.

    The only clear course of action is for Morrison to resign from Parliament, and Hurley to resign from the position of Governor–General: there is no public trust for either of them and both of their positions are untenable.

    And should Labor repeal the Stage 3 tax cuts? Morally, ethically and economically, yes, they should. It’s a tax cut legislated by the Coalition, it’s not Labor policy, and it’s not a part of the Labor Party’s philosophy to provide massive tax cuts to high income earners and virtually nothing to low and middle income earners.

    So, what are they waiting for? The big issue is that, historically, any politician or political party that repeals a promised tax cut is asking for political trouble, irrespective of how valid or economically responsible it might be for the circumstances of the day. It gives the mainstream media – most of whom would be the beneficiaries of tax cuts – and the Opposition of the day to weaponise against the Labor Party, and they’d be shouting about it from the rooftops everyday until the next election.

    The Labor Party doesn’t have enough political capital to repeal the Stage 3 tax cuts and, perhaps, no party every would. For the Albanese government, keeping the Stage 3 tax cuts is the lesser of two problems: they’ll have to recoup the $157 billion of lost revenue in other ways.]]>    2575auspol,corruptionfalsefull    Lessons for Labor, Liberal’s nuclear error, and lucky Barilarohttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lessons-for-labor-liberal-s-nuclear-error-and-lucky-barilaro--50896888
    But what are the lessons for the Labor Party? The did win the election, but victory tends to gloss over any problems a political party might have, and move those problems into the ‘too-hard’ basket. But both major political parties received record low primary votes in 2022 and while it’s possible to win elections through strategic preference voting flows, these types of election victories are difficult to navigate.

    While it’s difficult to see the Liberal–National Coalition gaining enough traction over the next three years to pick up those 18 seats it needs to win the 2025 election, it’s easier to see Labor losing seats to Greens or other independent candidates. It’s something they need to be careful of, and their main opponents at the next election might be the Australian Greens and teal-styled independents, and not the Coalition.

    And after being thoroughly outplayed on the Climate Change Bill, Peter Dutton has tried to get the Coalition into the climate change debates by throwing in nuclear energy into the mix, even though countless government reports have established that nuclear is not a viable industry in Australia. Including a report the Coalition commissioned in 2019, less than two years ago, which confirmed all of the findings of previous government reports.

    If the Coalition had the courage of its convictions, it would have installed nuclear power many years ago – they’ve been in office for 51 of the past 73 years – as well as installing a nuclear reactor in each of their electorates. But they didn’t and never will. The time for nuclear energy in Australia was in the 1960s, and that time has passed. In 2022, it’s a conservative tool to wedge Labor and cause political trouble: that’s all it is.

    It’s the gift that keeps giving to NSW Labor – John Barilaro, the man who is now claiming he’s “the victim” in the New York Trade Commissioner debacle, arguing that just because he changed the job from a public service appointment to a political appointment, it can’t be possibly argued that it was purely to benefit himself. Even though – lucky man! – he ended up being benefitted and was appointed as the New York Trade Commissioner. All purely on merit, apparently.

    The worst part of this is that these political figures expect the public to believe these fantastic stories and accept them as truth. Politics in NSW has been corrupt for a long time, and it’s hard to see this changing. And Victoria is not too far behind, with corruption and misconduct apparent in both the government, and the opposition. Why is there so much corruption in state politics?]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50896888Fri, 12 Aug 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsA lull in politics gives us some time to assess how the political parties are travelling, and since the May election result, most of the focus how been placed on the Coalition – the messages that it can take from their election loss and how they can...
    But what are the lessons for the Labor Party? The did win the election, but victory tends to gloss over any problems a political party might have, and move those problems into the ‘too-hard’ basket. But both major political parties received record low primary votes in 2022 and while it’s possible to win elections through strategic preference voting flows, these types of election victories are difficult to navigate.

    While it’s difficult to see the Liberal–National Coalition gaining enough traction over the next three years to pick up those 18 seats it needs to win the 2025 election, it’s easier to see Labor losing seats to Greens or other independent candidates. It’s something they need to be careful of, and their main opponents at the next election might be the Australian Greens and teal-styled independents, and not the Coalition.

    And after being thoroughly outplayed on the Climate Change Bill, Peter Dutton has tried to get the Coalition into the climate change debates by throwing in nuclear energy into the mix, even though countless government reports have established that nuclear is not a viable industry in Australia. Including a report the Coalition commissioned in 2019, less than two years ago, which confirmed all of the findings of previous government reports.

    If the Coalition had the courage of its convictions, it would have installed nuclear power many years ago – they’ve been in office for 51 of the past 73 years – as well as installing a nuclear reactor in each of their electorates. But they didn’t and never will. The time for nuclear energy in Australia was in the 1960s, and that time has passed. In 2022, it’s a conservative tool to wedge Labor and cause political trouble: that’s all it is.

    It’s the gift that keeps giving to NSW Labor – John Barilaro, the man who is now claiming he’s “the victim” in the New York Trade Commissioner debacle, arguing that just because he changed the job from a public service appointment to a political appointment, it can’t be possibly argued that it was purely to benefit himself. Even though – lucky man! – he ended up being benefitted and was appointed as the New York Trade Commissioner. All purely on merit, apparently.

    The worst part of this is that these political figures expect the public to believe these fantastic stories and accept them as truth. Politics in NSW has been corrupt for a long time, and it’s hard to see this changing. And Victoria is not too far behind, with corruption and misconduct apparent in both the government, and the opposition. Why is there so much corruption in state politics?]]>    2535auspol,climatechange,nswpol,vicpolfalsefull    A Voice to Parliament and a new economy. Can we do both?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-voice-to-parliament-and-a-new-economy-can-we-do-both--50827977
    But it’s an exclusionary document; it was founded on a racist agenda from yesterday and Australia is now a far more sophisticated society than when it was founded in the early part of the twentieth century. There is some resistance from within the Indigenous community, and from different sides of the political spectrum – Senator Jacinta Price has suggested it does nothing to address disadvantage, so she’ll actively campaign against it, while Senator Lidia Thorpe has suggested a Treaty and a truth telling commission should come first. But surely governments can work on more than one issue at a time: why not implement a Voice To Parliament and address disadvantage at the same time? The two processes are not mutually exclusive.

    The problem with constitutional recognition of the Voice To Parliament is that it has to be decided – through a referendum – by a system that ignored those rights in the first place. But 250 Indigenous leaders and elders from all around Australia have requested this voice, and it’s because of this reason that it should be supported, and should offer a clearer pathway towards a Treaty and reconciliation.

    The state of the economy is becoming more dire and, once again, the Labor Party finds itself in government at a time of severe economic problems. They were in office during World War I, The Great Depression and World War II; the oil crisis in the early 1970s; the 1983 recession; the world recession of the early 1990s; the global financial crisis from 2008; and now, the pandemic economy and massive government national debt.

    The Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, is laying out the economic narrative of the difficult circumstances. The Treasurer needs to be in control of the politics of the economy, as well as the economic output: it’s not just a case where some fine words and Shakespearian delivery can make all the problems go away. Different narratives need to be provided to the electorate; the business community; bankers, the money markets; the share markets. And if any of those areas decided that Chalmers is not up to the job, he’s going to be in for a rough ride over the next parliamentary term. We think that he is up to the job, but which economic levers will he use?

    His job – and Labor’s – will be made easier by the current performances of the Coalition, which is finding the transition from government into Opposition quite difficult. And recent opinion polls are also confirming how poorly the Coalition is travelling, who seem determined to ignore the messages they received from the electorate at the May federal election – to paraphrase James Carville, ‘it’s the climate, stupid’.

    Peter Dutton refused to support Labor’s Climate Change Bill, assuming that forcing them to deal with the Australian Greens – just like Labor did in 2009 and walked away with nothing – would create mayhem, and the Coalition would reap the political benefits on yet another carcass of a discared climate change policy: anything to kick start the climate change wars.

    The only problem: the Greens supported Labor’s Bill and will pass it in the Senate. Dutton was defeated on ideas, on policy, and on politics. If this is the best the Coalition can do, they might be in for a long stint in Opposition.

    Anthony Albanese, while he was Opposition leader, declared he would be constructive and support the government wherever possible, especially during a pandemic crisis. Constructive, not de-structive.

    Today, Anthony Albanese is Prime Minister. There might be lesson in here for the Coalition, if only they are brave enough to look for it.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50827977Fri, 05 Aug 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe details for the Voice To Parliament have been released by the Prime Minister, and it’s three simple changes to the Constitution, but already, conservatives are circling the wagons and claiming that that it’s a document that has kept Australia safe...
    But it’s an exclusionary document; it was founded on a racist agenda from yesterday and Australia is now a far more sophisticated society than when it was founded in the early part of the twentieth century. There is some resistance from within the Indigenous community, and from different sides of the political spectrum – Senator Jacinta Price has suggested it does nothing to address disadvantage, so she’ll actively campaign against it, while Senator Lidia Thorpe has suggested a Treaty and a truth telling commission should come first. But surely governments can work on more than one issue at a time: why not implement a Voice To Parliament and address disadvantage at the same time? The two processes are not mutually exclusive.

    The problem with constitutional recognition of the Voice To Parliament is that it has to be decided – through a referendum – by a system that ignored those rights in the first place. But 250 Indigenous leaders and elders from all around Australia have requested this voice, and it’s because of this reason that it should be supported, and should offer a clearer pathway towards a Treaty and reconciliation.

    The state of the economy is becoming more dire and, once again, the Labor Party finds itself in government at a time of severe economic problems. They were in office during World War I, The Great Depression and World War II; the oil crisis in the early 1970s; the 1983 recession; the world recession of the early 1990s; the global financial crisis from 2008; and now, the pandemic economy and massive government national debt.

    The Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, is laying out the economic narrative of the difficult circumstances. The Treasurer needs to be in control of the politics of the economy, as well as the economic output: it’s not just a case where some fine words and Shakespearian delivery can make all the problems go away. Different narratives need to be provided to the electorate; the business community; bankers, the money markets; the share markets. And if any of those areas decided that Chalmers is not up to the job, he’s going to be in for a rough ride over the next parliamentary term. We think that he is up to the job, but which economic levers will he use?

    His job – and Labor’s – will be made easier by the current performances of the Coalition, which is finding the transition from government into Opposition quite difficult. And recent opinion polls are also confirming how poorly the Coalition is travelling, who seem determined to ignore the messages they received from the electorate at the May federal election – to paraphrase James Carville, ‘it’s the climate, stupid’.

    Peter Dutton refused to support Labor’s Climate Change Bill, assuming that forcing them to deal with the Australian Greens – just like Labor did in 2009 and walked away with nothing – would create mayhem, and the Coalition would reap the political benefits on yet another carcass of a discared climate change policy: anything to kick start the climate change wars.

    The only problem: the Greens supported Labor’s Bill and will pass it in the Senate. Dutton was defeated on ideas, on policy, and on politics. If this is the best the Coalition can do, they might be in for a long stint in Opposition.

    Anthony Albanese, while he was Opposition leader, declared he would be constructive and support the government wherever possible, especially during a pandemic crisis. Constructive, not de-structive.

    Today, Anthony Albanese is Prime Minister. There might be lesson in here for the Coalition, if only they are brave enough to look for it.]]>    2912auspol,climatechange,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    An Audacious New Parliament And An Election Day Liehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/an-audacious-new-parliament-and-an-election-day-lie--50749803
    Climate change comes to mind, and the Coalition has decided to play itself out of the action on an important issue, an issue the electorate strongly supported at the 2022 federal election.

    The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has implored Parliament to think about their legacy, and reflect on that point in the future when they leave politics: how do they want to be remembered? As members of parliament who sat around, obfuscated and wasted their own time – and the time of their electorate – or implementing programs and policies that were in the benefit of as many people as possible in the community as possible?

    The answer seems straightforward, but many in the Coalition want to fight the losing battle from the last election, and happy to waste their time and every body elses. It’s a nihilistic political force that doesn’t know what to do: they were incompetent in government, and now they’re incompetent in opposition.

    There were many questions from the media during the 2022 election campaign: who is Anthony Albanese and what does he stand for? We are gradually finding out. This is an ambitious Labor government, but the quality of this government will be based on achievements and actions, not just the words and statements that it releases to the public: the public had three years of a meandering Morrison government; the demands are quite different now.

    If the ambitions of this Labor government are becoming clearer – what are the ambitions of the Liberal and National parties?

    It appears they haven’t learnt the lessons of the federal election and are looking at the behaviours of the Howard, Abbott and Morrison governments for guidance. But this is a dead end: they need to make a clean break from this era and forge a new path if they wish to achieve political success.

    And part of this process has to be disowning the actions of Scott Morrison on election day, when he broke convention – as well as his own unofficial code of not speaking of ‘on water matter’ – by publicising the interception of an asylum seeker boat at 12.50pm, with only five hours before the polls closed.

    It didn’t making any difference to the final result – and it was unlikely to make a difference – but Morrison and the Liberal Party decide to trash convention and their own reputations to try and win an election. The party needs change, it needs reform. And until it does, it’s likely to be spending a long time in political obscurity.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50749803Fri, 29 Jul 2022 22:00:03 +0000New PoliticsThe 47th Parliament has commenced and the new Labor government wants to implement its agenda as soon as possible. After nine years of a Coalition government seemingly unwilling to implement anything meaningful, it’s a shock to the body politic to see...
    Climate change comes to mind, and the Coalition has decided to play itself out of the action on an important issue, an issue the electorate strongly supported at the 2022 federal election.

    The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has implored Parliament to think about their legacy, and reflect on that point in the future when they leave politics: how do they want to be remembered? As members of parliament who sat around, obfuscated and wasted their own time – and the time of their electorate – or implementing programs and policies that were in the benefit of as many people as possible in the community as possible?

    The answer seems straightforward, but many in the Coalition want to fight the losing battle from the last election, and happy to waste their time and every body elses. It’s a nihilistic political force that doesn’t know what to do: they were incompetent in government, and now they’re incompetent in opposition.

    There were many questions from the media during the 2022 election campaign: who is Anthony Albanese and what does he stand for? We are gradually finding out. This is an ambitious Labor government, but the quality of this government will be based on achievements and actions, not just the words and statements that it releases to the public: the public had three years of a meandering Morrison government; the demands are quite different now.

    If the ambitions of this Labor government are becoming clearer – what are the ambitions of the Liberal and National parties?

    It appears they haven’t learnt the lessons of the federal election and are looking at the behaviours of the Howard, Abbott and Morrison governments for guidance. But this is a dead end: they need to make a clean break from this era and forge a new path if they wish to achieve political success.

    And part of this process has to be disowning the actions of Scott Morrison on election day, when he broke convention – as well as his own unofficial code of not speaking of ‘on water matter’ – by publicising the interception of an asylum seeker boat at 12.50pm, with only five hours before the polls closed.

    It didn’t making any difference to the final result – and it was unlikely to make a difference – but Morrison and the Liberal Party decide to trash convention and their own reputations to try and win an election. The party needs change, it needs reform. And until it does, it’s likely to be spending a long time in political obscurity.]]>    2146falsefull    A miserable ghost reappears, environment takes centre stage and the return of Parliamenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-miserable-ghost-reappears-environment-takes-centre-stage-and-the-return-of-parliament--50679308
    As the distance between Morrison’s tenure as prime minister and the current events of today become greater, it becomes more apparent that his tenure was a morass of anti-government paranoia, inaction on virtually every aspect of what the public would normally expect from a government, and an agenda that seemed to be based on a misguided religious-based philosophy that has no place in public life.

    Morrison and his political philosophies – if they can be described in this way – were more in tune with the radical QAnon ideals that most of the media ignored and if he wasn’t the most mediocre prime minister, he could certainly be considered to be one of the more potentially dangerous ones. It’s hard to think of any leader who was so indifferent to public office and the plight of the electorate – the only benefit for Morrison remaining in public life is as a reminder for the kind of leadership Australia needs to avoid in the future.

    And a part of Morrison’s agenda was to totally ignore the environment, as we discovered when the Minister for Environment, Tanya Plibersek released the State of the Environment report, which painted a picture of an almost dystopian future for Australia due to previous inaction on climate change – and a guaranteed dystopia if serious reductions of greenhouse emissions are not made. It’s no wonder the previous Minister, Sussan Ley, refused to release the report, which she had held onto since December 2021.

    But how will Labor be able to make its environmental credentials more palatable to the public if it’s approving new coalmines and greenfield gas projects? It will be a difficult balance of many competing interests – and vested interests – but the environment must win out, there is no alternative.

    And the 47th Parliament commences in Canberra, with a new government and a House of Representatives and Senate that seems to be more reflective of the Australian community. More women, more Indigenous representatives, less white, more multicultural. And a large crossbench. The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has a big agenda and this has the potential to be the most productive and most dynamic Parliament in Australia’s history.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50679308Fri, 22 Jul 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAfter several months of absence from the national stage, former Prime Minister Scott Morrison made an appearance on a different kind of stage – the pulpit of the Victory Church in Perth, announcing that he still believed in miracles. And that he...
    As the distance between Morrison’s tenure as prime minister and the current events of today become greater, it becomes more apparent that his tenure was a morass of anti-government paranoia, inaction on virtually every aspect of what the public would normally expect from a government, and an agenda that seemed to be based on a misguided religious-based philosophy that has no place in public life.

    Morrison and his political philosophies – if they can be described in this way – were more in tune with the radical QAnon ideals that most of the media ignored and if he wasn’t the most mediocre prime minister, he could certainly be considered to be one of the more potentially dangerous ones. It’s hard to think of any leader who was so indifferent to public office and the plight of the electorate – the only benefit for Morrison remaining in public life is as a reminder for the kind of leadership Australia needs to avoid in the future.

    And a part of Morrison’s agenda was to totally ignore the environment, as we discovered when the Minister for Environment, Tanya Plibersek released the State of the Environment report, which painted a picture of an almost dystopian future for Australia due to previous inaction on climate change – and a guaranteed dystopia if serious reductions of greenhouse emissions are not made. It’s no wonder the previous Minister, Sussan Ley, refused to release the report, which she had held onto since December 2021.

    But how will Labor be able to make its environmental credentials more palatable to the public if it’s approving new coalmines and greenfield gas projects? It will be a difficult balance of many competing interests – and vested interests – but the environment must win out, there is no alternative.

    And the 47th Parliament commences in Canberra, with a new government and a House of Representatives and Senate that seems to be more reflective of the Australian community. More women, more Indigenous representatives, less white, more multicultural. And a large crossbench. The Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has a big agenda and this has the potential to be the most productive and most dynamic Parliament in Australia’s history.]]>    2486auspol,climatechange,qanon,worstprimeministerfalsefull    Pacific diplomacy, Collaery case dropped, more NSW corruption and a forgotten pandemichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pacific-diplomacy-collaery-case-dropped-more-nsw-corruption-and-a-forgotten-pandemic--50583227
    The Prime Minister is also putting out the strong message to the world that there is a new government in office and is taking climate change seriously. But words are one thing; action is another, and we’ll have to wait to see what Labor actually does on climate change, once parliament meets and starts implementing government policy.

    The case against Bernard Collaery has been dropped and it’s about time. The case had been going on for too long and it shows that governments can act when they want to. This all relates to events from 2004, when the Australian government (allegedly) bugged the offices of East Timor President, Xanana Gusmao, to gain an upper hand in the negotiations in the Timor Sea oil agreements. It’s a sordid tale, but one the public will never find out about, even after the Cabinet papers are released in 2024, which surely will set some kind of record when it comes to redactions of official documents.

    And speaking of corruption and sordid tales, more information is being revealed about the US Trade Commissioner job that landed on the lap of John Barilaro: this is a clear case of (allegedly) corrupt behaviour. How on earth the NSW Government thought they could get away with it deserves a special credit. If there was a court of political incompetence, Barilaro and Stuart Ayres would be serving life sentences for political stupidity, especially in the context of a NSW state election, just eight months away.

    And it seems that governments have forgotten about the pandemic, even though 95% of COVID cases have occurred in 2022, as have 80% of all COVID-related deaths. The federal government decided that Pandemic Leave Disaster Payments were not going to be continued, before they finally came to their senses and reversed their bad decision.

    If only governments could stop toying with the electorate and remembered that we’re still in the middle of a pandemic, and it’s far from over.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50583227Fri, 15 Jul 2022 22:00:03 +0000New PoliticsForeign affairs is still a dominant issue for the Albanese government – and why not – so many relationships to repair after a neglectful nine years of Coalition government which left the Pacific islands behind. The Prime Minister is also putting...
    The Prime Minister is also putting out the strong message to the world that there is a new government in office and is taking climate change seriously. But words are one thing; action is another, and we’ll have to wait to see what Labor actually does on climate change, once parliament meets and starts implementing government policy.

    The case against Bernard Collaery has been dropped and it’s about time. The case had been going on for too long and it shows that governments can act when they want to. This all relates to events from 2004, when the Australian government (allegedly) bugged the offices of East Timor President, Xanana Gusmao, to gain an upper hand in the negotiations in the Timor Sea oil agreements. It’s a sordid tale, but one the public will never find out about, even after the Cabinet papers are released in 2024, which surely will set some kind of record when it comes to redactions of official documents.

    And speaking of corruption and sordid tales, more information is being revealed about the US Trade Commissioner job that landed on the lap of John Barilaro: this is a clear case of (allegedly) corrupt behaviour. How on earth the NSW Government thought they could get away with it deserves a special credit. If there was a court of political incompetence, Barilaro and Stuart Ayres would be serving life sentences for political stupidity, especially in the context of a NSW state election, just eight months away.

    And it seems that governments have forgotten about the pandemic, even though 95% of COVID cases have occurred in 2022, as have 80% of all COVID-related deaths. The federal government decided that Pandemic Leave Disaster Payments were not going to be continued, before they finally came to their senses and reversed their bad decision.

    If only governments could stop toying with the electorate and remembered that we’re still in the middle of a pandemic, and it’s far from over.]]>    2351auspol,covid,nswpol,witnesskfalsefull    Media madness, a Voice to Parliament, Climate Change politics and factional trouble in the Liberal Partyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/media-madness-a-voice-to-parliament-climate-change-politics-and-factional-trouble-in-the-liberal-party--50510629
    Which, of course, lead to other media outlets outlining how Albanese was now having to defend these criticisms. It’s a circular referral system that helps create the news, assorted click-bait, and continues that tradition of legacy media holding a Labor government to account in ways they never apply to conservative governments. And this style of reporting is becoming as irrelevant as the mainstream media, who seem to be enjoying their descent into a sea of insignificance.

    And the factional problems within the Liberal are slowing being exposed and it’s becoming clearer that these interplays between the moderates, centre right and conservatives, was one of the key causes of the defeat of the Liberal–National Coalition: Not the only reason; there was still a great amount of room for the other factors – inaction on climate change, incompetence, mismanagement, corruption.

    It’s also the end of NAIDOC week and how close are we to achieving a Voice to Parliament? While the conditions are possibly the most propitious they have been for many years, there is still a long way to go. The biggest problem is that to achieve constitutional legal change where land rights or legal rights given back to the original owners of this land, it has to be agreed to by the people that took it away in the first place. That’s not right.

    And who has the mandate on climate change? Labor – which wants to implement a 43% reduction target by 2030; or the Australian Greens, who want to implement a 75% reduction target? They can both claim legitimacy, but the issue here is that Labor is the government and holds 77 seats, to the Greens total of four seats; but to balance this out, the Greens hold the balance of power in the Senate and Labor needs their Senate support to pass legislation. How this will be resolved is anyone’s guess, but surely the greater incentive is to act in the interest of the public and end the climate change wars?]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50510629Fri, 08 Jul 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThere’s a madness in the media and hard to see when it will stop. The Prime Minister has returned from the recent NATO meeting – which included a visit to Ukraine – and the media wanted to create a false equivalence and criticised Anthony Albanese for...
    Which, of course, lead to other media outlets outlining how Albanese was now having to defend these criticisms. It’s a circular referral system that helps create the news, assorted click-bait, and continues that tradition of legacy media holding a Labor government to account in ways they never apply to conservative governments. And this style of reporting is becoming as irrelevant as the mainstream media, who seem to be enjoying their descent into a sea of insignificance.

    And the factional problems within the Liberal are slowing being exposed and it’s becoming clearer that these interplays between the moderates, centre right and conservatives, was one of the key causes of the defeat of the Liberal–National Coalition: Not the only reason; there was still a great amount of room for the other factors – inaction on climate change, incompetence, mismanagement, corruption.

    It’s also the end of NAIDOC week and how close are we to achieving a Voice to Parliament? While the conditions are possibly the most propitious they have been for many years, there is still a long way to go. The biggest problem is that to achieve constitutional legal change where land rights or legal rights given back to the original owners of this land, it has to be agreed to by the people that took it away in the first place. That’s not right.

    And who has the mandate on climate change? Labor – which wants to implement a 43% reduction target by 2030; or the Australian Greens, who want to implement a 75% reduction target? They can both claim legitimacy, but the issue here is that Labor is the government and holds 77 seats, to the Greens total of four seats; but to balance this out, the Greens hold the balance of power in the Senate and Labor needs their Senate support to pass legislation. How this will be resolved is anyone’s guess, but surely the greater incentive is to act in the interest of the public and end the climate change wars?]]>    2394auspol,climatechange,sydneyfloods,voicetoparliamentfalsefull    Independents Staff Outrage, Roe v Wade And Marxist Teachershttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/independents-staff-outrage-roe-v-wade-and-marxist-teachers--50436960
    But what is the correct number? Some MPs could have a staff of 100 and still be quite incompetent: others seem to be effective and efficient with the bare minimum of political staff. And in the previous parliament, Liberal Party staffers were caught having sex in the notorious parliamentary “prayer room: others decided to masturbate on the desk of their box and photograph themselves in the act. Obviously, some staffers have too much time on their hands. Can a compromise be reached? Perhaps two political advisors would make this issue go away but it’s not something that’s resonating with the public.

    And is Anthony Albanese spending too much time overseas and not enough on the domestic agenda? The media is making a big deal of it, labelling the Prime Minister as “Airbus Albo” but perhaps if they understood that Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison all travelled far more than Albanese in a comparable period, they might keep quiet.

    And the Roe v Wade decision from 1973 has been overturned by the US Supreme Court – it was a landmark decision then, and a landmark decision now to overturn a precedent that has directed abortion law reform all around the world. Will this decision influence Australian politics at all? It’s unlikely: according to opinions polls, 81% of people in Australia support the right for women to freely access abortion services. But 61% of people in the US are also supportive, yet Roe v Wade has been overturned. It shows that women’s rights and human rights always need to be fought hard for, not only to achieve them, but maintain them.

    Senator Hollie Hughes has made the claim that the Liberal Party lost the “youth vote” at the 2022 election because of “Marxist teachers” who, apparently, have infiltrated Australian society. What senators such as Hollie Hughes always fail to answer is if Marxist teachers, socialists and unions have caused so much mayhem, why has the Liberal–National Coalition held government for 20 of the past 26 years? It’s an intellectual paucity that has no boundaries.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50436960Fri, 01 Jul 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsHow many political staffers does it take to change a piece of legislation? Independent MPs have been outraged about the Prime Minister’s decision to reduce the number of political advisers from four down to one – which means they will have a total...
    But what is the correct number? Some MPs could have a staff of 100 and still be quite incompetent: others seem to be effective and efficient with the bare minimum of political staff. And in the previous parliament, Liberal Party staffers were caught having sex in the notorious parliamentary “prayer room: others decided to masturbate on the desk of their box and photograph themselves in the act. Obviously, some staffers have too much time on their hands. Can a compromise be reached? Perhaps two political advisors would make this issue go away but it’s not something that’s resonating with the public.

    And is Anthony Albanese spending too much time overseas and not enough on the domestic agenda? The media is making a big deal of it, labelling the Prime Minister as “Airbus Albo” but perhaps if they understood that Tony Abbott, Malcolm Turnbull and Scott Morrison all travelled far more than Albanese in a comparable period, they might keep quiet.

    And the Roe v Wade decision from 1973 has been overturned by the US Supreme Court – it was a landmark decision then, and a landmark decision now to overturn a precedent that has directed abortion law reform all around the world. Will this decision influence Australian politics at all? It’s unlikely: according to opinions polls, 81% of people in Australia support the right for women to freely access abortion services. But 61% of people in the US are also supportive, yet Roe v Wade has been overturned. It shows that women’s rights and human rights always need to be fought hard for, not only to achieve them, but maintain them.

    Senator Hollie Hughes has made the claim that the Liberal Party lost the “youth vote” at the 2022 election because of “Marxist teachers” who, apparently, have infiltrated Australian society. What senators such as Hollie Hughes always fail to answer is if Marxist teachers, socialists and unions have caused so much mayhem, why has the Liberal–National Coalition held government for 20 of the past 26 years? It’s an intellectual paucity that has no boundaries.]]>    2357auspol,marxism,wadevroefalsefull    Greens Power, Fighting The Last Election And More Corruption In NSWhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/greens-power-fighting-the-last-election-and-more-corruption-in-nsw--50313839
    But how well will they be able to work with the new Labor Government? To pass their legislation, Labor will need the support of these 12 Greens Senators – and one other, likely to be independent Senator David Pocock – but what will Labor need to give up to get the support of the Greens, and how will the Greens compromise their agendas to get the approval of Labor?

    Around 80 per cent of Greens preferences flow to the Labor Party, and these preferences are critical for Labor in the House of Representatives. And what do the Greens receive in support? Public animosity, if the comments from National Secretary Paul Erickson are any guide, when he suggested the Greens spend most of their time criticising Labor achievements and downplaying their progressive credentials.

    It would be better if the negotiations between Labor and the Greens are fruitful and result in outcomes in the public interest. Each party needs to maximise their own interests, and push their own agendas, but after nine years of policy paralysis provided by the Liberal–National Coalition government between 2013 and 2022, it’s essential Labor and the Greens resolve their differences and provide the community with government that acts in their interest.

    The 2022 federal election is well and truly over, but the new Leader of the Opposition, Peter Dutton, wants to fight this election all over again: climate wars, culture wars, blame games and asserting that he didn’t see a need to change very much of what the Coalition offered at this recent election. The former British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, did once say “the lady’s not for turning”, but that was Thatcher, and Peter Dutton ain’t no Margaret Thatcher.

    It’s an odd position for a new leader to adopt, especially after a thumping election loss, where the issues the Coalition presented to the electorate were comprehensively rejected. But perhaps the man’s not for turning, and is prepared to suffer the political consequences for his lack of action.

    And the state of NSW always has difficulty shedding its reputation as the ‘state of corruption’, this time, it’s the former Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, who’s taken up a trade commissioner position to the United States, a position he created while he was in the NSW Government. The position had been offered to another more highly credentialed person, but then Barilaro resigned from politics in October 2021, the offer to the other more highly credentialed person was rescinded and – can you believe it – eight months later, Barilaro is offered the $500,000 job.

    Yes, it is unbelievable, but this is New South Wales, where anything goes. We have a feeling the NSW ICAC might be busy with a new investigation, and it could take some time to unravel what actually took place. And, it has the potential to bring down yet another NSW Premier, Dominic Perrottet.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50313839Fri, 24 Jun 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe Australian Greens have had their most successful election campaign ever – four seats in the House of Representatives, 12 Senators and 12.25% of the primary vote all across Australia. These are excellent figures and a promising result for...
    But how well will they be able to work with the new Labor Government? To pass their legislation, Labor will need the support of these 12 Greens Senators – and one other, likely to be independent Senator David Pocock – but what will Labor need to give up to get the support of the Greens, and how will the Greens compromise their agendas to get the approval of Labor?

    Around 80 per cent of Greens preferences flow to the Labor Party, and these preferences are critical for Labor in the House of Representatives. And what do the Greens receive in support? Public animosity, if the comments from National Secretary Paul Erickson are any guide, when he suggested the Greens spend most of their time criticising Labor achievements and downplaying their progressive credentials.

    It would be better if the negotiations between Labor and the Greens are fruitful and result in outcomes in the public interest. Each party needs to maximise their own interests, and push their own agendas, but after nine years of policy paralysis provided by the Liberal–National Coalition government between 2013 and 2022, it’s essential Labor and the Greens resolve their differences and provide the community with government that acts in their interest.

    The 2022 federal election is well and truly over, but the new Leader of the Opposition, Peter Dutton, wants to fight this election all over again: climate wars, culture wars, blame games and asserting that he didn’t see a need to change very much of what the Coalition offered at this recent election. The former British Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, did once say “the lady’s not for turning”, but that was Thatcher, and Peter Dutton ain’t no Margaret Thatcher.

    It’s an odd position for a new leader to adopt, especially after a thumping election loss, where the issues the Coalition presented to the electorate were comprehensively rejected. But perhaps the man’s not for turning, and is prepared to suffer the political consequences for his lack of action.

    And the state of NSW always has difficulty shedding its reputation as the ‘state of corruption’, this time, it’s the former Deputy Premier, John Barilaro, who’s taken up a trade commissioner position to the United States, a position he created while he was in the NSW Government. The position had been offered to another more highly credentialed person, but then Barilaro resigned from politics in October 2021, the offer to the other more highly credentialed person was rescinded and – can you believe it – eight months later, Barilaro is offered the $500,000 job.

    Yes, it is unbelievable, but this is New South Wales, where anything goes. We have a feeling the NSW ICAC might be busy with a new investigation, and it could take some time to unravel what actually took place. And, it has the potential to bring down yet another NSW Premier, Dominic Perrottet.]]>    2381auspol,dutton,greensfalsefull    The Pseudo Energy Wars, Saving Julian Assange And Demise Of The Liberal Partyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-pseudo-energy-wars-saving-julian-assange-and-demise-of-the-liberal-party--50241245
    For nine years, the media barely focused on the failures of the Liberal–National government to formulate an energy policy between 2013–2022 and now they’re shaking their fists at Anthony Albanese for creating not just an energy crisis, but firing the first shots in a fictitious energy war. And it’s not just energy: refugees are arriving by boat! For nine years, these were “on water matters” that couldn’t be reported, but now it’s open slather, with media reports now claiming that people smugglers in Sri Lanka are telling their clients Australia is now very welcoming of boat arrivals.

    One area the new Labor government can act upon is Julian Assange: he’s been languishing in a British jail for over three years and Albanese – when he was Leader of the Opposition – did say that he couldn’t see the point of the continuing incarceration of Assange. Well, now he’s the Prime Minister, and now is the time to act. And also cease the prosecution of four whistleblowers in Australia – Jeff Morris, Richard Boyle, David McBride and Bernard Collaery – there’s no point to these prosecutions either, and it’s time to drop these cases.

    After each election, all political parties – whether they win or lose – assess where they went right, and where they went wrong. And the National Secretary of the Labor Party, Paul Erickson, has outlined all the reasons for why Labor won the election, and why the Coalition lost – eight key points – and the Coalition would be wise to listen in and take on these points. Free advice is probably the best advice.

    And is Scott Morrison the worst Prime Minister in Australia’s history? It’s an easy answer: a Prime Minister who won’t be remembered for very much, squandered a massive amount of political capital built up during the pandemic, kept on repeating the same mistakes over and over again – and didn’t learn from any of these mistakes – and then lost an election the Coalition didn’t need to lose and shouldn’t have lost. If only they displayed some level of competence. But they didn’t.

    So, yes. An easy choice for the worst Prime Minister. Come on down, Scott Morrison, come on down…]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50241245Fri, 17 Jun 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe biggest war is not the one in Ukraine – there are no generals in this war, there are no medals to hand out, and it’s possibly a war without end. And, of course, it’s a war that’s been concocted by the mainstream media and the Opposition, mainly to...
    For nine years, the media barely focused on the failures of the Liberal–National government to formulate an energy policy between 2013–2022 and now they’re shaking their fists at Anthony Albanese for creating not just an energy crisis, but firing the first shots in a fictitious energy war. And it’s not just energy: refugees are arriving by boat! For nine years, these were “on water matters” that couldn’t be reported, but now it’s open slather, with media reports now claiming that people smugglers in Sri Lanka are telling their clients Australia is now very welcoming of boat arrivals.

    One area the new Labor government can act upon is Julian Assange: he’s been languishing in a British jail for over three years and Albanese – when he was Leader of the Opposition – did say that he couldn’t see the point of the continuing incarceration of Assange. Well, now he’s the Prime Minister, and now is the time to act. And also cease the prosecution of four whistleblowers in Australia – Jeff Morris, Richard Boyle, David McBride and Bernard Collaery – there’s no point to these prosecutions either, and it’s time to drop these cases.

    After each election, all political parties – whether they win or lose – assess where they went right, and where they went wrong. And the National Secretary of the Labor Party, Paul Erickson, has outlined all the reasons for why Labor won the election, and why the Coalition lost – eight key points – and the Coalition would be wise to listen in and take on these points. Free advice is probably the best advice.

    And is Scott Morrison the worst Prime Minister in Australia’s history? It’s an easy answer: a Prime Minister who won’t be remembered for very much, squandered a massive amount of political capital built up during the pandemic, kept on repeating the same mistakes over and over again – and didn’t learn from any of these mistakes – and then lost an election the Coalition didn’t need to lose and shouldn’t have lost. If only they displayed some level of competence. But they didn’t.

    So, yes. An easy choice for the worst Prime Minister. Come on down, Scott Morrison, come on down…]]>    2452assange,auspol,ausvotesfalsefull    Labor And The Eternal Blame Gamehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/labor-and-the-eternal-blame-game--50151511
    The rules for the Coalition are different – they can endlessly remain in office, cause as many problems as they like, eschew responsibilities and then shout from the sidelines once they get turfed into Opposition, and demand the Labor Party fix all the problems they caused over an ineffective and inefficient nine year period in government.

    And their task is a great deal easier with a mainstream media that is defiantly loyal to the Coalition, and will support any ridiculous statements put out under the new leadership of Peter Dutton. And, true to form, the Liberal and National parties will behave like an opposition, whether they are in government or actually in opposition, and now is their time to shine as an opposition, and long may they stay in this position.

    The latest round of inanity is the idea that, somehow, the Labor government is illegitimate because 68 per cent of the electorate didn’t vote for them. This is refering to the 32 per cent primary vote the Labor Party received at the 2022 federal election but – history lesson – elections are not won by the parties with the most primary votes, or even the most preferential votes: it’s the party which wins the most seats out of the 151 seats on offer. It has always been like this and in every democratic system in the world. And, this time around, Labor won 77 seats, which means they can form government.

    It’s a pity the Liberal Party doesn’t understand this basic electoral arithmetic.

    In the meantime, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is doing what good governments should do: get on with the tasks at hand, including cleaning up the mess from over the past nine years. Already within three weeks, the new Labor government has resolved many of the diplomatic issues in the Pacific island region; created a stronger link with Indonesia; signposted its intentions on Indigenous affairs; released the Murugappan family back into the community.

    Of course, this is only a small part of the work of government, but it signals an intention of a new government wanting to get on with the work of government and not waste a moment in office.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50151511Fri, 10 Jun 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsHow much can a new government be held responsible for the mistakes of the previous government? And how much time should this new government be given to resolve all of these problems? Easy answer: if it’s an incoming Labor government, they are cause of...
    The rules for the Coalition are different – they can endlessly remain in office, cause as many problems as they like, eschew responsibilities and then shout from the sidelines once they get turfed into Opposition, and demand the Labor Party fix all the problems they caused over an ineffective and inefficient nine year period in government.

    And their task is a great deal easier with a mainstream media that is defiantly loyal to the Coalition, and will support any ridiculous statements put out under the new leadership of Peter Dutton. And, true to form, the Liberal and National parties will behave like an opposition, whether they are in government or actually in opposition, and now is their time to shine as an opposition, and long may they stay in this position.

    The latest round of inanity is the idea that, somehow, the Labor government is illegitimate because 68 per cent of the electorate didn’t vote for them. This is refering to the 32 per cent primary vote the Labor Party received at the 2022 federal election but – history lesson – elections are not won by the parties with the most primary votes, or even the most preferential votes: it’s the party which wins the most seats out of the 151 seats on offer. It has always been like this and in every democratic system in the world. And, this time around, Labor won 77 seats, which means they can form government.

    It’s a pity the Liberal Party doesn’t understand this basic electoral arithmetic.

    In the meantime, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is doing what good governments should do: get on with the tasks at hand, including cleaning up the mess from over the past nine years. Already within three weeks, the new Labor government has resolved many of the diplomatic issues in the Pacific island region; created a stronger link with Indonesia; signposted its intentions on Indigenous affairs; released the Murugappan family back into the community.

    Of course, this is only a small part of the work of government, but it signals an intention of a new government wanting to get on with the work of government and not waste a moment in office.]]>    1989auspolfalsefull    Flying the Red Flag for Labor and new Liberal leadership, same as the oldhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/flying-the-red-flag-for-labor-and-new-liberal-leadership-same-as-the-old--50045808
    The new Labor Ministry has been finalised and there are 10 women in a Cabinet of 22, and 19 women in the greater Ministry of 41 – eyebrows were raised when Tanya Plibersek was announced as the Minister for Environment, the media quick to claim this was a demotion, but with the environment and climate change issues featuring prominently during the election campaign, isn’t it wise to have your best people in the most difficult cabinet positions?

    And the main message from the Prime Minister Albanese to the Labor Caucus? Don’t waste a minute while you’re in government, and focus on the many difficult tasks ahead which, based on the amount of Labor MPs were in office during the Rudd–Gillard years between 2010–13, must be a reference to the division and Labor naval gazing which ultimately threw away hard-earned government, and gave it to an inept Liberal–National government for nine long years.

    And if Labor shows the competence that has been so lacking during the past nine years of Coalition rule, it should be office for some time into the future – governments since 1932 have been rewarded with a second term but, of course, it’s hard to predict what the future holds, and the issues that overcome the Coalition, could easily afflict Labor in government, if they’re not careful enough and diligent enough to focus on the important issues that affect people’s lives.

    But when stumped for a response, it’s always best to channel Billy Bragg. Albanese continued his cultural references from his youth to provide guidance, this time a quote from “To Have and To Have Not”: ‘Just because you’re going forwards, doesn’t mean I’m going backwards”. Keep the red flag flying comrade, this is socialism of the heart.

    The Liberal Party has new leadership – Peter Dutton and Sussan Ley – but it’s an unspectacular duo and seems more like a collection of placeholders and seat warmers, rather than the people who can provide a vision and dynamic for an election winning formula in 2025 and beyond. Newly installed leaders just after an election loss rarely survive by the time of the next election, although the current Prime Minister – Anthony Albanese – is the only one to have survived and gone on to win their first election as leader.

    So, it can be done, but will it? Dutton wants to be seen as a renaissance man, but he’s a clear link between the Howard, Abbott and Morrison eras, and the electorate just voted out that style of government. It will be a long road back into office for the Liberal Party and it’s best that they use this time wisely and embark on the reform that they’ve neglected for at least the past 15 years.

    And if new leadership is good enough for the Liberal Party, it’s good enough for the National Party, who have chosen David Littleproud as their new leader, dumping Barnaby Joyce, who returned to the leadership in early 2021 for reasons which might be only apparent to himself.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50045808Fri, 03 Jun 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe final assessment is in and the Labor Party has won 77 seats, enough to form government in its own right, without needing the support from the crossbench to pass legislation. But is this the best outcome? The number of crossbenchers has risen to 16...
    The new Labor Ministry has been finalised and there are 10 women in a Cabinet of 22, and 19 women in the greater Ministry of 41 – eyebrows were raised when Tanya Plibersek was announced as the Minister for Environment, the media quick to claim this was a demotion, but with the environment and climate change issues featuring prominently during the election campaign, isn’t it wise to have your best people in the most difficult cabinet positions?

    And the main message from the Prime Minister Albanese to the Labor Caucus? Don’t waste a minute while you’re in government, and focus on the many difficult tasks ahead which, based on the amount of Labor MPs were in office during the Rudd–Gillard years between 2010–13, must be a reference to the division and Labor naval gazing which ultimately threw away hard-earned government, and gave it to an inept Liberal–National government for nine long years.

    And if Labor shows the competence that has been so lacking during the past nine years of Coalition rule, it should be office for some time into the future – governments since 1932 have been rewarded with a second term but, of course, it’s hard to predict what the future holds, and the issues that overcome the Coalition, could easily afflict Labor in government, if they’re not careful enough and diligent enough to focus on the important issues that affect people’s lives.

    But when stumped for a response, it’s always best to channel Billy Bragg. Albanese continued his cultural references from his youth to provide guidance, this time a quote from “To Have and To Have Not”: ‘Just because you’re going forwards, doesn’t mean I’m going backwards”. Keep the red flag flying comrade, this is socialism of the heart.

    The Liberal Party has new leadership – Peter Dutton and Sussan Ley – but it’s an unspectacular duo and seems more like a collection of placeholders and seat warmers, rather than the people who can provide a vision and dynamic for an election winning formula in 2025 and beyond. Newly installed leaders just after an election loss rarely survive by the time of the next election, although the current Prime Minister – Anthony Albanese – is the only one to have survived and gone on to win their first election as leader.

    So, it can be done, but will it? Dutton wants to be seen as a renaissance man, but he’s a clear link between the Howard, Abbott and Morrison eras, and the electorate just voted out that style of government. It will be a long road back into office for the Liberal Party and it’s best that they use this time wisely and embark on the reform that they’ve neglected for at least the past 15 years.

    And if new leadership is good enough for the Liberal Party, it’s good enough for the National Party, who have chosen David Littleproud as their new leader, dumping Barnaby Joyce, who returned to the leadership in early 2021 for reasons which might be only apparent to himself.]]>    1971auspol,ausvotes,laborfalsefull    Everything Must Change: The Big 2022 Federal Election Analysishttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/everything-must-change-the-big-2022-federal-election-analysis--49967748
    Early on in the evening, it appeared Scott Morrison might be on track for a repeat of his 2019 victory, but as the night moved on, the Coalition was nowhere within reach of government, or even being able to cobble up an arrangement with the expanded crossbench to reach that magical number of 76 seats.

    This is the largest ever crossbench ever in federal politics and while it might not be a strong endorsement of the new Labor government, it’s an excellent result for progressive politics: a government that is prepared to make progress on Indigenous recognition, end the climate change wars, create an anti-corruption commission, clean up politics, improve women’s safety; and a mainly progressive crossbench that will create a buffer between this Labor government and the Coalition opposition.

    Already, the Coalition is reaching for a continuation of link with the Howard government through the likely appointment of Peter Dutton as the leader of the Liberal Party – therefore, becoming the leader of the opposition – when the electorate had just voted for a break from this style of conservative government and towards a new style of politics that works in the interests of people, and not against them.

    This election result is a clear demarcation point between the divisive and destructive politics of the Liberal–National government over the past nine years. Everything must change, and the electorate has voted for change.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49967748Fri, 27 May 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe 2022 federal election turned out to be one of the interesting and exciting results in Australian history. Not that you’d get an understanding of this while watching any of the mainstream media coverage on election night: their presentation and...
    Early on in the evening, it appeared Scott Morrison might be on track for a repeat of his 2019 victory, but as the night moved on, the Coalition was nowhere within reach of government, or even being able to cobble up an arrangement with the expanded crossbench to reach that magical number of 76 seats.

    This is the largest ever crossbench ever in federal politics and while it might not be a strong endorsement of the new Labor government, it’s an excellent result for progressive politics: a government that is prepared to make progress on Indigenous recognition, end the climate change wars, create an anti-corruption commission, clean up politics, improve women’s safety; and a mainly progressive crossbench that will create a buffer between this Labor government and the Coalition opposition.

    Already, the Coalition is reaching for a continuation of link with the Howard government through the likely appointment of Peter Dutton as the leader of the Liberal Party – therefore, becoming the leader of the opposition – when the electorate had just voted for a break from this style of conservative government and towards a new style of politics that works in the interests of people, and not against them.

    This election result is a clear demarcation point between the divisive and destructive politics of the Liberal–National government over the past nine years. Everything must change, and the electorate has voted for change.]]>    3263auspol,ausvotesfalsefull    Week 6 Election Wrap And Election Day Special!https://www.spreaker.com/episode/week-6-election-wrap-and-election-day-special--49869716
    Before we can talk about winners and losers from this campaign, the biggest losers – by far – have been the mainstream media, and it’s almost like their swansong as far as their influence in political affairs is concerned. Labor’s additional costings were calculated at $7.4 billion – seemingly a small amount compared to the $1,000 billion of national government debt accumulated by the federal government – and while everyone wanted to know how on earth Labor was going to “pay for this”, no one seemed to be too concerned about a $5.5 billion fee for the cancelled French submarines project – for absolutely nothing in return. The media needs to be reformed in Australia, but how will this happen?

    And many analysts are reluctant to announce who they believe will win the election – still suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, after the 2019 election result proved everyone wrong, including opinion pollsters.

    We have no fear though, and our fearless prediction is Labor should win this election – or at least be in a position to form a minority government with key independents. The polls are all pointing to a Labor victory – as they did in 2019 –but, aside from this, we need to look at the evidence. This has been a corrupt, inept and incompetent government, if not for the entire duration of Coalition rule since 2013, at least in this term of office (again, this is also what was said in 2019).

    And if another Coalition victory does come to fruition, we may as well throw away the keys to democracy: if Labor cannot win an election after this display of corruption, mismanagement, division and disorganisation from the federal government, there’s no point in holding elections any more.

    That’s how important this election is.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49869716Fri, 20 May 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAnd so, it has come to this. The day of the 2022 federal election. Week 6 of the campaign wasn’t that different to the previous five weeks: an array of announcements from both sides of politics, a campaign launch from the Liberal–National Coalition –...
    Before we can talk about winners and losers from this campaign, the biggest losers – by far – have been the mainstream media, and it’s almost like their swansong as far as their influence in political affairs is concerned. Labor’s additional costings were calculated at $7.4 billion – seemingly a small amount compared to the $1,000 billion of national government debt accumulated by the federal government – and while everyone wanted to know how on earth Labor was going to “pay for this”, no one seemed to be too concerned about a $5.5 billion fee for the cancelled French submarines project – for absolutely nothing in return. The media needs to be reformed in Australia, but how will this happen?

    And many analysts are reluctant to announce who they believe will win the election – still suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, after the 2019 election result proved everyone wrong, including opinion pollsters.

    We have no fear though, and our fearless prediction is Labor should win this election – or at least be in a position to form a minority government with key independents. The polls are all pointing to a Labor victory – as they did in 2019 –but, aside from this, we need to look at the evidence. This has been a corrupt, inept and incompetent government, if not for the entire duration of Coalition rule since 2013, at least in this term of office (again, this is also what was said in 2019).

    And if another Coalition victory does come to fruition, we may as well throw away the keys to democracy: if Labor cannot win an election after this display of corruption, mismanagement, division and disorganisation from the federal government, there’s no point in holding elections any more.

    That’s how important this election is.]]>    2861auspol,ausvotesfalsefull    Week 5 Election Wrap, The Leader’s Debates, The Return of the Democrats, And A Failing Coalition Campaignhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/week-5-election-wrap-the-leader-s-debates-the-return-of-the-democrats-and-a-failing-coalition-campaign--49786727
    This was Nine Media’s version of a leaders’ debate, and a semblance of normality returned when Seven West Media hosted the final debate: at least the studio audience was able to adequately assess the performances of the two leaders and recorded a decisive victory to Anthony Albanese – 50%, to Morrison’s 34%.

    But the election is not going to won by undecided voters housed in the studios of Australia’s media moguls, and Morrison decided his best bet is to channel Donald Trump and attack lawyers, barristers – any elites will do – and push out the message that he is ‘one of the people’. Not any type of people though, but those who reside in the realms of bogan land, because it appears Morrison believes these are the people that offer him the narrowest pathway to victory: the snarlers, the anti-vaxx crowd, the disaffected, the people who believe the whole world is against them. These are not the “quiet Australians” who supposedly delivered victory to Morrison at the 2019 election, but the rowdy ones who hate everyone and everything.

    However, it’s far too late. According to all published opinion polls, the Coalition is on track to record a massive election loss – thoroughly deserved – but the ghosts of 2019 are still haunting those who dare to make a definitive prediction. The most courageous words we can hear from political experts is that this election is Anthony Albanese’s to lose, but it also has to be remembered that no political party has ever come from this far behind in the final week of a campaign, and managed to win the election. Can Morrison repeat his success of 2019? It’s not impossible, but it must be close to impossible.

    The worst-case scenario for the Liberal–National Coalition is a Labor majority victory, coupled with a team of teal independents who create a massive buffer between them and the Coalition, pushing government out of reach. If this scenario comes to fruition, the Coalition will be out of office for a long time.

    And one of the forgotten parties of Australian politics – the Australian Democrats – is making a comeback and we speak to two of their candidates: Elena Mitchell and Steve Baty. Their halcyon days were well over twenty years ago, when they held nine Senate seats, and even if they manage to win one seat, it will complete a remarkable comeback, after losing their final Senate seats in 2008. And it seems like it’s the right time for a political force to “keep the bastards honest”, the original slogan created by the original Democrat, Don Chipp. It’s well overdue.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49786727Fri, 13 May 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsScott Morrison must now be rueing his decision to embark on a six-week election campaign, and it appears the longer it continues, the worse his position has become. Week five of the campaign commenced with a leader’s debate which closely resembled a...
    This was Nine Media’s version of a leaders’ debate, and a semblance of normality returned when Seven West Media hosted the final debate: at least the studio audience was able to adequately assess the performances of the two leaders and recorded a decisive victory to Anthony Albanese – 50%, to Morrison’s 34%.

    But the election is not going to won by undecided voters housed in the studios of Australia’s media moguls, and Morrison decided his best bet is to channel Donald Trump and attack lawyers, barristers – any elites will do – and push out the message that he is ‘one of the people’. Not any type of people though, but those who reside in the realms of bogan land, because it appears Morrison believes these are the people that offer him the narrowest pathway to victory: the snarlers, the anti-vaxx crowd, the disaffected, the people who believe the whole world is against them. These are not the “quiet Australians” who supposedly delivered victory to Morrison at the 2019 election, but the rowdy ones who hate everyone and everything.

    However, it’s far too late. According to all published opinion polls, the Coalition is on track to record a massive election loss – thoroughly deserved – but the ghosts of 2019 are still haunting those who dare to make a definitive prediction. The most courageous words we can hear from political experts is that this election is Anthony Albanese’s to lose, but it also has to be remembered that no political party has ever come from this far behind in the final week of a campaign, and managed to win the election. Can Morrison repeat his success of 2019? It’s not impossible, but it must be close to impossible.

    The worst-case scenario for the Liberal–National Coalition is a Labor majority victory, coupled with a team of teal independents who create a massive buffer between them and the Coalition, pushing government out of reach. If this scenario comes to fruition, the Coalition will be out of office for a long time.

    And one of the forgotten parties of Australian politics – the Australian Democrats – is making a comeback and we speak to two of their candidates: Elena Mitchell and Steve Baty. Their halcyon days were well over twenty years ago, when they held nine Senate seats, and even if they manage to win one seat, it will complete a remarkable comeback, after losing their final Senate seats in 2008. And it seems like it’s the right time for a political force to “keep the bastards honest”, the original slogan created by the original Democrat, Don Chipp. It’s well overdue.]]>    3351auspol,ausvotesfalsefull    Week 4 Election Wrap, Labor Launch, Albanese At The Kitchen Table, The Economy And Corruptionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/week-4-election-wrap-labor-launch-albanese-at-the-kitchen-table-the-economy-and-corruption--49688876
    Some people were bemused by Labor’s relatively early campaign launch, but it makes sense when taking this ‘election fortnight’ strategy into account. The Liberal Party will hold their campaign launch in the final week – which means they’ll still collect public funding until this time – but this epitomises Scott Morrison perfectly. If there is a public handout available there, he’ll be there to collect it.

    As predicted, there was a cash rate rise during the week, but it’s not the Prime Minister’s fault: it’s all about external events, the war in Ukraine… maybe it’s even Labor’s fault, but it doesn’t really matter, because it’s not about politics and mortgage holders have factored into account these rate rises through their savings. Apparently.

    Morrison takes the credit when the good news arrives, and always finds someone else to blame when the bad news arrives. But it cannot be like this: a Prime Minister has to take responsibility for everything, not just pick and choose the narrative that suits their agenda at the time.

    And, once again, Morrison claims a federal ICAC will be a ‘kangaroo court’, but we feel he doesn’t want an anti-corruption commission because he is likely to one of the first MPs to appear once this body is established. And, more than likely, followed by many of his frontbench team: this has the potential to keep a federal ICAC busy for a least a decade, decimate the Liberal and National parties, and keep them out of office for another decade on top of that, so it’s obvious why Morrison is not keen on a federal ICAC.

    A debate between Josh Frydenberg and Jim Chalmers focussed on ‘cost of living’ pressures: a civil affair, but if the Coalition wins the election, will Frydenberg actually be the Treasurer? He’s facing a difficult task in the seat of Kooyong and there’s inside speculation that the seat might already be lost to the independent challenger, Monique Ryan.

    There was also a new batch of opinion polls, and it’s the same story as before: no change – if anything, they’ve become worse for the Coalition. Labor is in a winning position in all of these polls, and has been for the past 104 surveys, but we have to remember what happened in 2019: Labor ahead in over 100 consecutive opinion polls, only to lose the election. It’s unlikely, but it could happen again in 2022 – the only hope for the Coalition is that it’s happened before, but this time around, they are much further behind.

    And we answer audience questions: this week, our opinions on the chances of The New Liberals; and the possibility of a Royal Commission into COVID management. We think there should be one.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49688876Fri, 06 May 2022 22:00:03 +0000New PoliticsFour weeks into the campaign and real votes are being cast, with the acceptance of postal votes and the prepoll period commencing soon. In 2019, Labor won the two-party preferred vote – but lost the vote by a wide margin during the prepolling period...
    Some people were bemused by Labor’s relatively early campaign launch, but it makes sense when taking this ‘election fortnight’ strategy into account. The Liberal Party will hold their campaign launch in the final week – which means they’ll still collect public funding until this time – but this epitomises Scott Morrison perfectly. If there is a public handout available there, he’ll be there to collect it.

    As predicted, there was a cash rate rise during the week, but it’s not the Prime Minister’s fault: it’s all about external events, the war in Ukraine… maybe it’s even Labor’s fault, but it doesn’t really matter, because it’s not about politics and mortgage holders have factored into account these rate rises through their savings. Apparently.

    Morrison takes the credit when the good news arrives, and always finds someone else to blame when the bad news arrives. But it cannot be like this: a Prime Minister has to take responsibility for everything, not just pick and choose the narrative that suits their agenda at the time.

    And, once again, Morrison claims a federal ICAC will be a ‘kangaroo court’, but we feel he doesn’t want an anti-corruption commission because he is likely to one of the first MPs to appear once this body is established. And, more than likely, followed by many of his frontbench team: this has the potential to keep a federal ICAC busy for a least a decade, decimate the Liberal and National parties, and keep them out of office for another decade on top of that, so it’s obvious why Morrison is not keen on a federal ICAC.

    A debate between Josh Frydenberg and Jim Chalmers focussed on ‘cost of living’ pressures: a civil affair, but if the Coalition wins the election, will Frydenberg actually be the Treasurer? He’s facing a difficult task in the seat of Kooyong and there’s inside speculation that the seat might already be lost to the independent challenger, Monique Ryan.

    There was also a new batch of opinion polls, and it’s the same story as before: no change – if anything, they’ve become worse for the Coalition. Labor is in a winning position in all of these polls, and has been for the past 104 surveys, but we have to remember what happened in 2019: Labor ahead in over 100 consecutive opinion polls, only to lose the election. It’s unlikely, but it could happen again in 2022 – the only hope for the Coalition is that it’s happened before, but this time around, they are much further behind.

    And we answer audience questions: this week, our opinions on the chances of The New Liberals; and the possibility of a Royal Commission into COVID management. We think there should be one.]]>    2785auspol,ausvotes,election2022falsefull    Week 3 Election Wrap, A Missing Leader, ANZAC Day And Peter Dutton’s War On Chinahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/week-3-election-wrap-a-missing-leader-anzac-day-and-peter-dutton-s-war-on-china--49601523
    Perhaps it might have been better to focus on all the occasions Scott Morrison has been absent over the past three years?

    Climate change also entered the campaign, but Labor didn’t really need to make too many announcements on this issue. The King of Coal, Matt Canavan, suggested the net zero by 2050 target for the Liberal–National Coalition was “dead” and was never going to happen and, as a result of his statements, the eternal colour of happiness is teal. Candidates from the Voices Of group of independents could barely conceal their delight and the stupidity of Canavan and Colin Boyce in voicing their opinions so stridently. As Napoleon Bonaparte suggested, never interfere when your enemy is making all mistakes.

    ANZAC Day was held during the week, and what better way for a politician to show disrespect and disdain for those people who died in Australian wars, by talking up a war with China, or driving mobile Liberal Party billboards during an ANZAC Day service in Geelong.

    Really, we have to start questioning the sanity of leaders such as Peter Dutton and Morrison, because it’s these types of foolish leaders who sacrifice the lives of young soldiers, while hiding in their coward’s castles, far away from any mortal danger.

    And this foolishness was also on display in the Solomon Islands, where Australia threw away high level hard and soft diplomacy measures and allowed China extend its sphere of influence into the Pacific. The Prime Minister has really found himself on the sticky end of a fried dough stick.

    It’s also becoming more apparent this foolishness in Canberra is about to end, with all opinion polls predicting a Labor victory on election day – 21 May – they also predicted a Labor victory in 2019 but, this time around, it’s hard to see where Scott Morrison’s victory is going to come from. It really is.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49601523Sat, 30 Apr 2022 00:30:02 +0000New PoliticsAnthony Albanese was missing from the election campaign for one week, and didn’t the media have a field day. Unfortunately, the media has it in for Albanese, and instead of the predicted nightmare disaster that was meant to be caused by their leader’s...
    Perhaps it might have been better to focus on all the occasions Scott Morrison has been absent over the past three years?

    Climate change also entered the campaign, but Labor didn’t really need to make too many announcements on this issue. The King of Coal, Matt Canavan, suggested the net zero by 2050 target for the Liberal–National Coalition was “dead” and was never going to happen and, as a result of his statements, the eternal colour of happiness is teal. Candidates from the Voices Of group of independents could barely conceal their delight and the stupidity of Canavan and Colin Boyce in voicing their opinions so stridently. As Napoleon Bonaparte suggested, never interfere when your enemy is making all mistakes.

    ANZAC Day was held during the week, and what better way for a politician to show disrespect and disdain for those people who died in Australian wars, by talking up a war with China, or driving mobile Liberal Party billboards during an ANZAC Day service in Geelong.

    Really, we have to start questioning the sanity of leaders such as Peter Dutton and Morrison, because it’s these types of foolish leaders who sacrifice the lives of young soldiers, while hiding in their coward’s castles, far away from any mortal danger.

    And this foolishness was also on display in the Solomon Islands, where Australia threw away high level hard and soft diplomacy measures and allowed China extend its sphere of influence into the Pacific. The Prime Minister has really found himself on the sticky end of a fried dough stick.

    It’s also becoming more apparent this foolishness in Canberra is about to end, with all opinion polls predicting a Labor victory on election day – 21 May – they also predicted a Labor victory in 2019 but, this time around, it’s hard to see where Scott Morrison’s victory is going to come from. It really is.]]>    2707anzacday,auspol,ausvotesfalsefull    Week 2 Election Wrap And The Fine Art Of The Scare Campaignhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/week-2-election-wrap-and-the-fine-art-of-the-scare-campaign--49515632
    Is it a “scare campaign” if it’s actually close to the truth? The media has been quick to point out that it is, and make the claim it’s hurting pensioners to have this “scare” aired in public, even though they didn’t seem so concerned during the 2019 election campaign, when they were very happy to talk up “Labor’s retiree tax”, even though such a plan has never existed, and never will.

    But given Scott Morrison was the architect of the disastrous “Robodebt” scheme – which cost the Australian taxpayers $1.2 billion – and was also Minister for Social Services when the Indue card trial was implemented, it’s likely that he’d also like to apply this draconian system to age pensioners. Why? Because that’s who he is.

    “Where’s the money going to come from?” It’s a question asked of Labor, but never of the Coalition, even though the answer is the same for both parties. The money comes from the Reserve Bank of Australia, as it always has. Why do political journalists continue to humiliate themselves by asking the most basic questions available to them?

    The opinions polls are still pointing towards a Labor victory at the next election, although a hung parliament is also a distinct possibility. If this comes into play, who would the crossbench support? It’s quite possible their numbers could come up to 13 and, as most of these would be taking seats away from the Liberal Party, would they support the Liberal Party to form government? It’s unlikely: all of these independents are campaigning strongly on several key issues – climate change, integrity in politics, women’s safety, corruption and mismanagement.

    It would be hard for them to support the Liberal Party, considering their lack of action on all of these issues over the past nine years.

    And it’s still quite predictable: the media has an intense dislike of Anthony Albanese, and doesn’t it show. He’s the man who cannot do anything right. He’s on stage at the Byron Bay Bluesfest: he ‘gatecrashed’, that’s obviously wrong.

    He wins the leaders debate on Sky News, 40 to 35 in an audience of 100 undecided voters: but the public doesn’t understand, so that result is obviously wrong too – Albanese didn’t win, Scott Morrison did. And, oh goodness me, now he’s gone off to catch COVID: that’s obviously wrong and it’s an absolute disaster and ‘nightmare’ for Albanese and Labor’s campaign! (hint: no, it’s not really).

    Australia has a paucity of quality political journalism and it’s a pity so many journalists swayed towards the one-sided disaster-style reporting when Albanese revealed he had contracted COVID. They could have thought a little more creatively and looking at the possibility that it might actually work in Labor’s favour. But squawking from the sidelines is far easier and far more enjoyable. And what better to make people disengage from politics by telling everyone how “boring” and “dismal” the election campaign.

    Who’s got time to report on the important matters?]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49515632Fri, 22 Apr 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsScare campaigns need to have a semblance of truth behind them to work effectively and Labor’s strategy of making pensioners think they’ll have their income managed through the cashless debit card if the Coalition wins the federal election, does gave...
    Is it a “scare campaign” if it’s actually close to the truth? The media has been quick to point out that it is, and make the claim it’s hurting pensioners to have this “scare” aired in public, even though they didn’t seem so concerned during the 2019 election campaign, when they were very happy to talk up “Labor’s retiree tax”, even though such a plan has never existed, and never will.

    But given Scott Morrison was the architect of the disastrous “Robodebt” scheme – which cost the Australian taxpayers $1.2 billion – and was also Minister for Social Services when the Indue card trial was implemented, it’s likely that he’d also like to apply this draconian system to age pensioners. Why? Because that’s who he is.

    “Where’s the money going to come from?” It’s a question asked of Labor, but never of the Coalition, even though the answer is the same for both parties. The money comes from the Reserve Bank of Australia, as it always has. Why do political journalists continue to humiliate themselves by asking the most basic questions available to them?

    The opinions polls are still pointing towards a Labor victory at the next election, although a hung parliament is also a distinct possibility. If this comes into play, who would the crossbench support? It’s quite possible their numbers could come up to 13 and, as most of these would be taking seats away from the Liberal Party, would they support the Liberal Party to form government? It’s unlikely: all of these independents are campaigning strongly on several key issues – climate change, integrity in politics, women’s safety, corruption and mismanagement.

    It would be hard for them to support the Liberal Party, considering their lack of action on all of these issues over the past nine years.

    And it’s still quite predictable: the media has an intense dislike of Anthony Albanese, and doesn’t it show. He’s the man who cannot do anything right. He’s on stage at the Byron Bay Bluesfest: he ‘gatecrashed’, that’s obviously wrong.

    He wins the leaders debate on Sky News, 40 to 35 in an audience of 100 undecided voters: but the public doesn’t understand, so that result is obviously wrong too – Albanese didn’t win, Scott Morrison did. And, oh goodness me, now he’s gone off to catch COVID: that’s obviously wrong and it’s an absolute disaster and ‘nightmare’ for Albanese and Labor’s campaign! (hint: no, it’s not really).

    Australia has a paucity of quality political journalism and it’s a pity so many journalists swayed towards the one-sided disaster-style reporting when Albanese revealed he had contracted COVID. They could have thought a little more creatively and looking at the possibility that it might actually work in Labor’s favour. But squawking from the sidelines is far easier and far more enjoyable. And what better to make people disengage from politics by telling everyone how “boring” and “dismal” the election campaign.

    Who’s got time to report on the important matters?]]>    2535auspol,ausvotes,election2022falsefull    Week 1 Election Wrap And Media Behaving Badly. Very Badly.https://www.spreaker.com/episode/week-1-election-wrap-and-media-behaving-badly-very-badly--49441951
    A classic ‘gotcha’ question from the media, and it’s just another example of how poor political journalism is in Australia, where the value of catching a politician out – and getting the headline propaganda – is placed far higher than providing a vision for the future of this country, which is sorely needed after nine years of driftless and aimless government provided by the Liberal–National Coalition.

    But, these are rules of the game: Albanese should have known these figures or, at the least, had a strategy for dealing with this situation, which inevitably happens during an election campaign.

    If only he’d been quick enough to recite three words – “Google it, mate” – and all would have been forgiven. Adam Bandt from the Australian Greens put a journalist in his place for asking a ridiculous ‘gotcha’ question, but it’s unlikely to stop journalists from asking these inane questions, because the current crop of Australian journalists don’t have the intellect or depth of knowledge to provide a clearer analysis: best to trip over a political leader, and that’s the day’s work day. And if they’re lucky, score an invitation to the Prime Minister’s private drinks session for the travelling media: you never know who you might meet there and, hopefully snort some free cocaine in the Nepean Rowers Club bathrooms.

    Labor does receive different treatment from the media, there’s no questions about this: hostility and impatient demands for answers are always made of Labor Party leaders; for Scott Morrison, any answer will do – whether it’s correct or not, doesn’t really matter either – and then it’s off for some photo opportunities at a sewing machine centre in western Sydney, or shooting some hoops at a basketball court in Melbourne. Morrison is the media’s man: he can do no wrong, because he’s the convenient idiot for the media moguls. Or perhaps the Manchurian Candidate, but that might be a bit too sophisticated for legacy media, which prefers to glide with those in power, rather than hold power to account.

    Will this cost Albanese the election? Elections are more than just about first-day blunders: this election should be about climate change, cost of living pressures, wage stagnation, a lack of action for bushfire and flood victims, saving Medicare, women’s safety, the failures in the vaccination rollout and quarantine measures, incompetence, corruption, and all the rorting.

    These are the issues the election should be about, not about who can recite random statistics on a podium. The media is trying to hoodwink the electorate: they’re as evil and insipid as the Liberal Party that they keep cheering for. It’s just a question of whether the electorate can see through this, or keep swallowing the lies they’re been happily accepting over the past nine years.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49441951Fri, 15 Apr 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsA very hostile first media conference for Anthony Albanese in the marginal seat of Bass in Tasmania, where he couldn’t answer or gave the wrong answers to two questions from a journalist: what’s the Reserve Bank’s cash rate, and what is the official...
    A classic ‘gotcha’ question from the media, and it’s just another example of how poor political journalism is in Australia, where the value of catching a politician out – and getting the headline propaganda – is placed far higher than providing a vision for the future of this country, which is sorely needed after nine years of driftless and aimless government provided by the Liberal–National Coalition.

    But, these are rules of the game: Albanese should have known these figures or, at the least, had a strategy for dealing with this situation, which inevitably happens during an election campaign.

    If only he’d been quick enough to recite three words – “Google it, mate” – and all would have been forgiven. Adam Bandt from the Australian Greens put a journalist in his place for asking a ridiculous ‘gotcha’ question, but it’s unlikely to stop journalists from asking these inane questions, because the current crop of Australian journalists don’t have the intellect or depth of knowledge to provide a clearer analysis: best to trip over a political leader, and that’s the day’s work day. And if they’re lucky, score an invitation to the Prime Minister’s private drinks session for the travelling media: you never know who you might meet there and, hopefully snort some free cocaine in the Nepean Rowers Club bathrooms.

    Labor does receive different treatment from the media, there’s no questions about this: hostility and impatient demands for answers are always made of Labor Party leaders; for Scott Morrison, any answer will do – whether it’s correct or not, doesn’t really matter either – and then it’s off for some photo opportunities at a sewing machine centre in western Sydney, or shooting some hoops at a basketball court in Melbourne. Morrison is the media’s man: he can do no wrong, because he’s the convenient idiot for the media moguls. Or perhaps the Manchurian Candidate, but that might be a bit too sophisticated for legacy media, which prefers to glide with those in power, rather than hold power to account.

    Will this cost Albanese the election? Elections are more than just about first-day blunders: this election should be about climate change, cost of living pressures, wage stagnation, a lack of action for bushfire and flood victims, saving Medicare, women’s safety, the failures in the vaccination rollout and quarantine measures, incompetence, corruption, and all the rorting.

    These are the issues the election should be about, not about who can recite random statistics on a podium. The media is trying to hoodwink the electorate: they’re as evil and insipid as the Liberal Party that they keep cheering for. It’s just a question of whether the electorate can see through this, or keep swallowing the lies they’re been happily accepting over the past nine years.]]>    2035auspol,auspolsocorrupt,ausvotesfalsefull    Big Pre-election Special And Talking Politics With The Very Reason-able Jane Carohttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/big-pre-election-special-and-talking-politics-with-the-very-reason-able-jane-caro--49363041
    But as bad as a government has been for most of its existence, it only has to be on its best behaviour for five weeks – the length of the election campaign – of a 156-week parliamentary term, and all sins can be forgotten by the electorate. That is what Scott Morrison is hoping for. The big problem this time around is Morrison is not an unknown figure: the electorate suspects that he’s working for someone else, and not for the Australian electorate. They suspect he lies for most of the time, even when he doesn’t need to; they suspect that he’s incompetent, and they suspect that he might even be corrupt.

    He’s also looking for the same tactics and election tricks that worked so well for him during the 2019 election – the photo opportunities, the grand misrepresentation of Labor policies, and Bill Shorten the bogeyman, also known as the “Bill Australia can’t afford”. Again, it’s 2022, and it’s all so different. The electorate is tiring of the endless photo opportunities; they’ve worked Morrison out. Bill Shorten is no longer the leader of the Labor Party, replaced by the innocuous and inoffensive Anthony Albanese – but after years of division promoted by Morrison at every opportunity, being innocuous and inoffensive might be just what the election is looking for as they enter the third year of this COVID pandemic.

    The free character assessments offered by Liberal Party MP – and the long-departed Michael Towke, who reappeared like Banquo’s ghost after 15 years in exile, reminding the world what the media would hope would be forgotten – the brutal attack on him by Scott Morrison in the 2007 Liberal Party preselection battle in Cook. The media will do whatever they can to justify and promote the return of the Morrison government, even though it’s patently clear – especially over the past three years – that this is not a government worth saving. It might fall on deaf ears anyway: based on what all the polls are saying, it might not matter anymore, and the Liberal Party is heading for a period in exile, so it can lick its wounds, and return as a much better political party.

    Jane Caro is a social commentator, writer, academic and public education advocate. And she's running as a Senate candidate for the Reason Party – David Lewis caught up with her to talk about public education, aged care and the upcoming election campaign. If Labor manages to win the next election – and Caro also manages to enter the Senate – we could be in for some interesting times as far as reform of the education and age care sectors are concerned. But, first things first: there’s an election campaign to be held and the election in May.

    It’s going to be a wild ride.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49363041Fri, 08 Apr 2022 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsWe’ve never seen a government in so much trouble entering an election campaign and it’s just a question of whether Scott Morrison has the political skills to turn matters around. But before everyone starts drawing a line through the Liberal–National...
    But as bad as a government has been for most of its existence, it only has to be on its best behaviour for five weeks – the length of the election campaign – of a 156-week parliamentary term, and all sins can be forgotten by the electorate. That is what Scott Morrison is hoping for. The big problem this time around is Morrison is not an unknown figure: the electorate suspects that he’s working for someone else, and not for the Australian electorate. They suspect he lies for most of the time, even when he doesn’t need to; they suspect that he’s incompetent, and they suspect that he might even be corrupt.

    He’s also looking for the same tactics and election tricks that worked so well for him during the 2019 election – the photo opportunities, the grand misrepresentation of Labor policies, and Bill Shorten the bogeyman, also known as the “Bill Australia can’t afford”. Again, it’s 2022, and it’s all so different. The electorate is tiring of the endless photo opportunities; they’ve worked Morrison out. Bill Shorten is no longer the leader of the Labor Party, replaced by the innocuous and inoffensive Anthony Albanese – but after years of division promoted by Morrison at every opportunity, being innocuous and inoffensive might be just what the election is looking for as they enter the third year of this COVID pandemic.

    The free character assessments offered by Liberal Party MP – and the long-departed Michael Towke, who reappeared like Banquo’s ghost after 15 years in exile, reminding the world what the media would hope would be forgotten – the brutal attack on him by Scott Morrison in the 2007 Liberal Party preselection battle in Cook. The media will do whatever they can to justify and promote the return of the Morrison government, even though it’s patently clear – especially over the past three years – that this is not a government worth saving. It might fall on deaf ears anyway: based on what all the polls are saying, it might not matter anymore, and the Liberal Party is heading for a period in exile, so it can lick its wounds, and return as a much better political party.

    Jane Caro is a social commentator, writer, academic and public education advocate. And she's running as a Senate candidate for the Reason Party – David Lewis caught up with her to talk about public education, aged care and the upcoming election campaign. If Labor manages to win the next election – and Caro also manages to enter the Senate – we could be in for some interesting times as far as reform of the education and age care sectors are concerned. But, first things first: there’s an election campaign to be held and the election in May.

    It’s going to be a wild ride.]]>    3588auspol,ausvotes,election2022falsefull    Budget 2022 And A Wrecking Ball Governmenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/budget-2022-and-a-wrecking-ball-government--49280153
    Is this a good Budget? Budgets should be all about the community and the economy but, once again, the media has focused on whether the Budget will be enough to get the Coalition government re-elected or not, which seems to totally miss the point of national finances.

    And is this government incompetent, or is its mismanagement – inaction on climate change, bushfires, flooding, vaccination rollout – a deliberate strategy by design? Many people have suggested it’s impossible for a government to be so incompetent, and the Morrison government is following in the footsteps of the Bush administration in the United States: deliberate incompetence and recklessness that opens up the pathway for an obscene ideology that brings in all the spivs, charlatans, and private operators. Everything is against the public interest and in favour of the chosen few.

    We’ve had yet another once-in-3500 years weather event in Lismore and northern New South Wales. And, once again, government has acted slowly and its response has been too late. This is an issue that is going to feature in the background of the federal election campaign, once it is announced.

    Labor preselections always seem to attract controversy, especially when a white male economist from an affluent area is parachuted into a diverse multicultural western Sydney seat. Should parties insert high quality candidates into winnable seats, or choose the local who works the branches for many years, and ends up doing nothing once they become the MP?

    This, of course, is an issue. But nothing compared to the criticism being thrown at Scott Morrison by his own side of politics. Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells has, effectively, been dumped by the Liberal Party and her final speech in the Senate shared her opinion of Morrison as a bully who is unfit to be Prime Minister and lacks a moral compass.

    There’s no come back for Morrison. Fierravanti-Wells is leaving politics but it appears there might be quite a few of her Liberal Party colleagues following her at the next election, whenever it is held.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49280153Fri, 01 Apr 2022 21:00:03 +0000New PoliticsThe Budget was announced this week, and not only was it one of the most political ever, it was also one of the most expensive job applications in history for the federal Treasurer, Josh Frydenberg, who is clearly angling for the leadership of the...
    Is this a good Budget? Budgets should be all about the community and the economy but, once again, the media has focused on whether the Budget will be enough to get the Coalition government re-elected or not, which seems to totally miss the point of national finances.

    And is this government incompetent, or is its mismanagement – inaction on climate change, bushfires, flooding, vaccination rollout – a deliberate strategy by design? Many people have suggested it’s impossible for a government to be so incompetent, and the Morrison government is following in the footsteps of the Bush administration in the United States: deliberate incompetence and recklessness that opens up the pathway for an obscene ideology that brings in all the spivs, charlatans, and private operators. Everything is against the public interest and in favour of the chosen few.

    We’ve had yet another once-in-3500 years weather event in Lismore and northern New South Wales. And, once again, government has acted slowly and its response has been too late. This is an issue that is going to feature in the background of the federal election campaign, once it is announced.

    Labor preselections always seem to attract controversy, especially when a white male economist from an affluent area is parachuted into a diverse multicultural western Sydney seat. Should parties insert high quality candidates into winnable seats, or choose the local who works the branches for many years, and ends up doing nothing once they become the MP?

    This, of course, is an issue. But nothing compared to the criticism being thrown at Scott Morrison by his own side of politics. Senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells has, effectively, been dumped by the Liberal Party and her final speech in the Senate shared her opinion of Morrison as a bully who is unfit to be Prime Minister and lacks a moral compass.

    There’s no come back for Morrison. Fierravanti-Wells is leaving politics but it appears there might be quite a few of her Liberal Party colleagues following her at the next election, whenever it is held.]]>    3486auspol,ausvotes,budget2022falsefull    SA election, Labor factions, and the beginning of the end of Morrisonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sa-election-labor-factions-and-the-beginning-of-the-end-of-morrison--49193471
    We keep being told that there’s no relationship between state and federal issues, but we think there is much for the Morrison government to be worried about. In almost every election result since the pandemic commenced, aside from a state election victory in Tasmania, there hasn’t been very much good news for the Liberal–National Coalition.

    A byelection loss in Eden–Monaro, general election losses in Western Australia, Queensland, Northern Territory, ACT and South Australia, even a 3.5% swing against the Coalition in the Queensland byelection in Groom. Massive byelection swings in New South Wales. This is not really a recipe for success, if the federal government is looking for any guidance.

    And if the federal government is not having much success in the management of the economy, the bushfires, the floods, COVID… and pretty much every else we’d expect from government, what better way to distract the public than highlighting factional problems in the Labor Party.

    The media’s behaviour – and that of the Coalition – has been unedifying in reporting on the death of Kimberley Kitching, and the innuendos, gossip and half-truths about Labor Party factions. Anything at all to smear Labor and try to prove to the public that Labor is unworthy of high office.

    The only problem is that very few people in the media understand what factions are – and the Liberal Party does have them too, despite what Malcolm Turnbull suggested several years ago – but presenting the idea of “factions: bad”, and something that only exists in the Labor Party is all the media is interested in.

    The polls keep getting worse for Scott Morrison and qualitative research confirms that the Prime Minister is considered to be incompetent and untrustworthy. If a half-decent Premier in South Australia is given a 5% swing against and thrown out of office, what type of punishment will be inflicted upon the Morrison government?

    Budget week will provide a few more answers and it will be the last chance for the federal government to turn everything around – and also a last chance for the Liberal Party to make a leadership change before the election: if it does indeed come to that. That’s how bad it has become.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49193471Fri, 25 Mar 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe electorate in South Australia has removed a one-term Liberal Party government and installed a Labor government under Peter Malinauskas. And with a state election so close to a federal election, will there be any implications for Scott Morrison?...
    We keep being told that there’s no relationship between state and federal issues, but we think there is much for the Morrison government to be worried about. In almost every election result since the pandemic commenced, aside from a state election victory in Tasmania, there hasn’t been very much good news for the Liberal–National Coalition.

    A byelection loss in Eden–Monaro, general election losses in Western Australia, Queensland, Northern Territory, ACT and South Australia, even a 3.5% swing against the Coalition in the Queensland byelection in Groom. Massive byelection swings in New South Wales. This is not really a recipe for success, if the federal government is looking for any guidance.

    And if the federal government is not having much success in the management of the economy, the bushfires, the floods, COVID… and pretty much every else we’d expect from government, what better way to distract the public than highlighting factional problems in the Labor Party.

    The media’s behaviour – and that of the Coalition – has been unedifying in reporting on the death of Kimberley Kitching, and the innuendos, gossip and half-truths about Labor Party factions. Anything at all to smear Labor and try to prove to the public that Labor is unworthy of high office.

    The only problem is that very few people in the media understand what factions are – and the Liberal Party does have them too, despite what Malcolm Turnbull suggested several years ago – but presenting the idea of “factions: bad”, and something that only exists in the Labor Party is all the media is interested in.

    The polls keep getting worse for Scott Morrison and qualitative research confirms that the Prime Minister is considered to be incompetent and untrustworthy. If a half-decent Premier in South Australia is given a 5% swing against and thrown out of office, what type of punishment will be inflicted upon the Morrison government?

    Budget week will provide a few more answers and it will be the last chance for the federal government to turn everything around – and also a last chance for the Liberal Party to make a leadership change before the election: if it does indeed come to that. That’s how bad it has become.]]>    2437auspol,election2022,savotesfalsefull    Attacking Albanese, The Media Plunge To A New Low, And We Take A Look At The Fusion Partyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/attacking-albanese-the-media-plunge-to-a-new-low-and-we-take-a-look-at-the-fusion-party--49100861
    In his attacks on Albanese, Morrison claimed “he's not pretending to be someone else” – except for sheep shearer, hair beautician, racing car driver, carpenter, barre dancer, gnocchi maker, chef, court sweeper, ukulele musician, a pilot. If these are Morrison’s ambitions, he should follow his dreams and allow someone else to become the prime minister but, with the opinion polls still pointing to a Coalition loss at the next federal election, perhaps the decision is going to be made for him.

    Senator Kimberley Kitching died last week and the grieving hadn’t even started before the media started blaming the Labor Party for causing her death. It was unedifying and yet another example of the mediocre standards of the Australian mainstream media, and how willing they are to support anything that is detrimental to the progress of the Labor Party.

    When Don Randall died in 2015, there was no discussion of the “stress of the job”, or Liberal Party preselection issues. But when it’s a Labor parliamentarian, it’s an open attack and no point is too low to go to.

    And election signage is causing problems in Melbourne. Michael Sukkar and Tim Wilson rarely do anything in Parliament – their ideological pursuits are based on that libertarian theme of no government at all, but they’ll jump to action when it comes to election posters. Wilson has actually gone to the Supreme Court to stop his opponent, Zoe Daniel, from putting up election posters. Parliamentary work: forget it. But work to get yourself re-elected into parliament to not actually do anything: that’s a definite yes. Wilson has got his priorities all wrong.

    And we feature Sahar Khalili from the Fusion Party, candidate in the federal seat of Reid. It’s an amalgamation of several minor parties and find out what their ambitions are for federal politics and the future.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49100861Fri, 18 Mar 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIt was Anthony Albanese’s turn to appear on 60 Minutes, but not as much enthusiasm as they displayed for Scott Morrison, even though more people tuned in to watch Albanese, compared to Morrison’s episode several weeks earlier. And his appearance...
    In his attacks on Albanese, Morrison claimed “he's not pretending to be someone else” – except for sheep shearer, hair beautician, racing car driver, carpenter, barre dancer, gnocchi maker, chef, court sweeper, ukulele musician, a pilot. If these are Morrison’s ambitions, he should follow his dreams and allow someone else to become the prime minister but, with the opinion polls still pointing to a Coalition loss at the next federal election, perhaps the decision is going to be made for him.

    Senator Kimberley Kitching died last week and the grieving hadn’t even started before the media started blaming the Labor Party for causing her death. It was unedifying and yet another example of the mediocre standards of the Australian mainstream media, and how willing they are to support anything that is detrimental to the progress of the Labor Party.

    When Don Randall died in 2015, there was no discussion of the “stress of the job”, or Liberal Party preselection issues. But when it’s a Labor parliamentarian, it’s an open attack and no point is too low to go to.

    And election signage is causing problems in Melbourne. Michael Sukkar and Tim Wilson rarely do anything in Parliament – their ideological pursuits are based on that libertarian theme of no government at all, but they’ll jump to action when it comes to election posters. Wilson has actually gone to the Supreme Court to stop his opponent, Zoe Daniel, from putting up election posters. Parliamentary work: forget it. But work to get yourself re-elected into parliament to not actually do anything: that’s a definite yes. Wilson has got his priorities all wrong.

    And we feature Sahar Khalili from the Fusion Party, candidate in the federal seat of Reid. It’s an amalgamation of several minor parties and find out what their ambitions are for federal politics and the future.]]>    3466auspol,election2022,fusionpartyfalsefull    The On-Water Matters Sweeping Out The Morrison Government To Oblivion: A Big Week In Politicshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-on-water-matters-sweeping-out-the-morrison-government-to-oblivion-a-big-week-in-politics--49025941
    The floods in northern NSW and Queensland are causing major political headaches for the Morrison government and, as the floodwaters flow back into the oceans, their ideological obsession with small government has been laid bare.

    Communities expect governments to act when events occur that are beyond their control and beyond their abilities to repair. Otherwise, what is the point of government? Are they not also made up from the people that live in these communities? Scott Morrison’s response has been haphazard, confused, illogical and, when it finally arrived, it was far too late.

    And with an election around the corner, the federal government’s chances are receding as quickly as the northern waters.

    Although current polls are indicated a change of government is in the air, Morrison has to continue what he has always been doing – announcing. A nuclear submarines base has been “announced” to be built in either Brisbane, Newcastle or Wollongong – areas where the Coalition needs to hold seats, or gain seats, if wants to have any chance of an election victory in May.

    But these three locations are not even in the top five recommended by the Australian Defence Force, but why should this matter if there’s an election to be won? And for the most “transactional” Prime Minister has ever seen, this is all that matters: the public interest comes a distance last.

    And what type of company does Peter Dutton keep? The Minister for Defence has some very peculiar relationships with a few Brisbane-based companies who, in turn, donate to the Liberal–National Party. It’s a stark reminder the Joh Bjelke-Petersen corruption of the 1970s and 1980s has never really disappeared: different faces, different characters, but the same old malfeasance. If only we had a federal anti-corruption commission that could look into these activities.

    It was also International Women’s Day this week: it seems Morrison was too busy to make any announcements or statements about IWD, but after his performances in 2019 and 2021, it’s probably a good thing he kept quiet. Anything he says will remind the election about the incredibly low number of women in the Coalition – just 21 per cent – and who wants to be reminded of that?

    And we might see another one-term government next week, with the South Australia Government facing a 5 per cent swing against it, and facing a loss of at least four seats. It’s a part of an international swing against the conservative regimes who want to see their role reduced, at a time when electorates are seeking more involvement of governments during an insecure and unpredictable time.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/49025941Fri, 11 Mar 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsDedicated to the memory of Senator Kimberley Kitching. The floods in northern NSW and Queensland are causing major political headaches for the Morrison government and, as the floodwaters flow back into the oceans, their ideological obsession with...
    The floods in northern NSW and Queensland are causing major political headaches for the Morrison government and, as the floodwaters flow back into the oceans, their ideological obsession with small government has been laid bare.

    Communities expect governments to act when events occur that are beyond their control and beyond their abilities to repair. Otherwise, what is the point of government? Are they not also made up from the people that live in these communities? Scott Morrison’s response has been haphazard, confused, illogical and, when it finally arrived, it was far too late.

    And with an election around the corner, the federal government’s chances are receding as quickly as the northern waters.

    Although current polls are indicated a change of government is in the air, Morrison has to continue what he has always been doing – announcing. A nuclear submarines base has been “announced” to be built in either Brisbane, Newcastle or Wollongong – areas where the Coalition needs to hold seats, or gain seats, if wants to have any chance of an election victory in May.

    But these three locations are not even in the top five recommended by the Australian Defence Force, but why should this matter if there’s an election to be won? And for the most “transactional” Prime Minister has ever seen, this is all that matters: the public interest comes a distance last.

    And what type of company does Peter Dutton keep? The Minister for Defence has some very peculiar relationships with a few Brisbane-based companies who, in turn, donate to the Liberal–National Party. It’s a stark reminder the Joh Bjelke-Petersen corruption of the 1970s and 1980s has never really disappeared: different faces, different characters, but the same old malfeasance. If only we had a federal anti-corruption commission that could look into these activities.

    It was also International Women’s Day this week: it seems Morrison was too busy to make any announcements or statements about IWD, but after his performances in 2019 and 2021, it’s probably a good thing he kept quiet. Anything he says will remind the election about the incredibly low number of women in the Coalition – just 21 per cent – and who wants to be reminded of that?

    And we might see another one-term government next week, with the South Australia Government facing a 5 per cent swing against it, and facing a loss of at least four seats. It’s a part of an international swing against the conservative regimes who want to see their role reduced, at a time when electorates are seeking more involvement of governments during an insecure and unpredictable time.]]>    2944auspol,election2022,iwd2022,lismorefloods2022falsefull    Ukraine, Climate Change Floods And A Look At The Australian Progressiveshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ukraine-climate-change-floods-and-a-look-at-the-australian-progressives--48945542
    And is has also provided an opportunity for the Australian Prime Minister to talk tough. It’s obvious Scott Morrison wants to be seen as part of a war-time government, but it’s hard to convince the Australian public. He’s doing the right thing to call out Russian aggression in Ukraine but Australia is not at war.

    It’s also hard to think that if there wasn’t a federal election coming up, the government’s response would have been close to nothing. After all, that’s all they did when Russia annexed the Crimea in 2014, and almost as much during the wars in Bosnia and Croatia in the 1990s.

    Australia doesn’t have very much of a relationship with Russia or Ukraine: the electorate would like Australia to provide the support needed to end the conflict, but it’s a far away conflict and it probably won’t play on the mind of the electorate at the next federal election.

    There is one Australian connection, however, that needs to be looked at: Rupert Murdoch and Putin do have a close relationship. Putin facilitated the sale of Russian media companies to the Murdoch empire in the early 2000s, a time when Murdoch was having financial difficulties. And now the favour is being repaid, with favourable pro-Russian commentary on the US Fox News channel, which is now being replayed on Russian television. A friend in need is a friend indeed, and 20 years later, Murdoch is propagandising on behalf of Putin.

    There is very little governments could have done to stop the floods in Queensland and northern NSW – except for introduce climate change mitigation about 30 years ago – but, even still, there is action that can be taken to be prepared when the inevitable effects of climate change arrive.

    A report outlining the climate change events that would hit eastern Australia up until April 2022 was delivered to National Cabinet in November 2021, but it seems the government failed to act upon anything, and the communities now being affected by these floods were caught totally unawares.

    Preparing for a crisis and acting when the crisis arrives is the primary reason for the existence of governments – offering protection and support when the community needs it – but the federal and NSW governments seem to think that it’s best to do nothing. If you lose your house, it’s your fault. If an entire town is flooded, what’s that got to do with the government? Should have prayed a little bit more, otherwise this wouldn’t have happened to you.

    It’s the most narrow-minded perspective of what governments should be doing – or not doing, and it’s hard to see either the federal government or the NSW Government being able to win their respective elections with these types of ideological approaches. Governments are there to help and assist, not avoid people and punish them when a crisis arrives.

    And in our ongoing series on independent candidates and minor parties, David Lewis is in conversation with Therese Faulkner, the president of the Australian Progressives, to look at their ambitions at the next federal election.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48945542Fri, 04 Mar 2022 21:00:03 +0000New PoliticsThe war in Russian invasion in Ukraine is escalating, and it’s difficult to know how this will end. But Vladimir Putin has already lost, irrespective of the outcome: a crashing Russian economy, the Rouble has collapsed, and receiving opprobrium from...
    And is has also provided an opportunity for the Australian Prime Minister to talk tough. It’s obvious Scott Morrison wants to be seen as part of a war-time government, but it’s hard to convince the Australian public. He’s doing the right thing to call out Russian aggression in Ukraine but Australia is not at war.

    It’s also hard to think that if there wasn’t a federal election coming up, the government’s response would have been close to nothing. After all, that’s all they did when Russia annexed the Crimea in 2014, and almost as much during the wars in Bosnia and Croatia in the 1990s.

    Australia doesn’t have very much of a relationship with Russia or Ukraine: the electorate would like Australia to provide the support needed to end the conflict, but it’s a far away conflict and it probably won’t play on the mind of the electorate at the next federal election.

    There is one Australian connection, however, that needs to be looked at: Rupert Murdoch and Putin do have a close relationship. Putin facilitated the sale of Russian media companies to the Murdoch empire in the early 2000s, a time when Murdoch was having financial difficulties. And now the favour is being repaid, with favourable pro-Russian commentary on the US Fox News channel, which is now being replayed on Russian television. A friend in need is a friend indeed, and 20 years later, Murdoch is propagandising on behalf of Putin.

    There is very little governments could have done to stop the floods in Queensland and northern NSW – except for introduce climate change mitigation about 30 years ago – but, even still, there is action that can be taken to be prepared when the inevitable effects of climate change arrive.

    A report outlining the climate change events that would hit eastern Australia up until April 2022 was delivered to National Cabinet in November 2021, but it seems the government failed to act upon anything, and the communities now being affected by these floods were caught totally unawares.

    Preparing for a crisis and acting when the crisis arrives is the primary reason for the existence of governments – offering protection and support when the community needs it – but the federal and NSW governments seem to think that it’s best to do nothing. If you lose your house, it’s your fault. If an entire town is flooded, what’s that got to do with the government? Should have prayed a little bit more, otherwise this wouldn’t have happened to you.

    It’s the most narrow-minded perspective of what governments should be doing – or not doing, and it’s hard to see either the federal government or the NSW Government being able to win their respective elections with these types of ideological approaches. Governments are there to help and assist, not avoid people and punish them when a crisis arrives.

    And in our ongoing series on independent candidates and minor parties, David Lewis is in conversation with Therese Faulkner, the president of the Australian Progressives, to look at their ambitions at the next federal election.]]>    3357auspol,climatechange,election2022,lismorefloods,ukrainefalsefull    Scott Morrison’s War Against Everything and David Lewis interviews The New Liberalshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/scott-morrison-s-war-against-everything-and-david-lewis-interviews-the-new-liberals--48864634
    And creating that link between Albanese and pinko-communist-leftist-Maoist-Guevarian-socialist thoughts, all because (allegedly) he glanced at the Communist Party of Australia’s newspaper, The Tribune, at some point in 1992. The Liberal Party support team at News Corporation did fall short of calling for the execution of Albanese for thought crimes against the state, but the sentiment was there.

    An incident between an Australian Defence Force aircraft and a Chinese vessel in international waters in the Arafura Sea was magnified in the media and by the federal government – we still are not sure what occurred – but who’s got time for the facts when there’s an election to be won. And if the electorate tires from hearing about ‘China’, there’s always an opportunity to drag Australia into the Russia–Ukraine conflict, even though it’s not within Australia’s field of interest.

    Yes, we need to be concerned about Russia’s invasions in Ukraine, but it’s a complex situation based on old Soviet Union politics, history, imperialism, economics and control of resources. But that doesn’t matter: it‘s an opportunity to push Australia towards a ‘khaki’ election, which the Coalition believes it has a stronger chance of winning, as well as being about to promote the idea that Albanese is ‘weak on border protection’. But will it work?

    The Liberal Party seems to be at war with everyone and when they’ve cycled through the usual suspects – China, communists, the Greens, Labor, pensioners, welfare recipients, the poor – they return to an old and trusted enemy: the unions. A shutdown of Sydney’s train system was caused by the NSW Government, with the intention of blaming the unions.

    Australia is poorly served by its mainstream media, and the Sydney Morning Herald provided a fine example of this when they pushed the idea that it was strike action caused by unions (no, it was a lockout by the NSW Government), and this provided attack points for Morrison over the next few days against unions – it’s a pity that it was all incorrect, but that was never the point. It allowed Morrison to push the message about life under an Albanese government – train strikes every day of week; misery; inconvenience; something about communism and the left.

    In Morrison’s dystopia, there are no shades of grey, just Neanderthal simplicity: Scomo, good. Albo, bad.

    And David Lewis catches up with Ryan Bruce, who is the candidate in Aston for The New Liberals: we find out about his campaign, and what The New Liberals are all about and what the future holds for them.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48864634Fri, 25 Feb 2022 21:00:03 +0000New PoliticsScott Morrison and Peter Dutton are keen to mention the Community Party of China at every opportunity and how terrible they are – ignoring the fact that China is Australia’s number one trading partner and Australian athletes recently competed at the...
    And creating that link between Albanese and pinko-communist-leftist-Maoist-Guevarian-socialist thoughts, all because (allegedly) he glanced at the Communist Party of Australia’s newspaper, The Tribune, at some point in 1992. The Liberal Party support team at News Corporation did fall short of calling for the execution of Albanese for thought crimes against the state, but the sentiment was there.

    An incident between an Australian Defence Force aircraft and a Chinese vessel in international waters in the Arafura Sea was magnified in the media and by the federal government – we still are not sure what occurred – but who’s got time for the facts when there’s an election to be won. And if the electorate tires from hearing about ‘China’, there’s always an opportunity to drag Australia into the Russia–Ukraine conflict, even though it’s not within Australia’s field of interest.

    Yes, we need to be concerned about Russia’s invasions in Ukraine, but it’s a complex situation based on old Soviet Union politics, history, imperialism, economics and control of resources. But that doesn’t matter: it‘s an opportunity to push Australia towards a ‘khaki’ election, which the Coalition believes it has a stronger chance of winning, as well as being about to promote the idea that Albanese is ‘weak on border protection’. But will it work?

    The Liberal Party seems to be at war with everyone and when they’ve cycled through the usual suspects – China, communists, the Greens, Labor, pensioners, welfare recipients, the poor – they return to an old and trusted enemy: the unions. A shutdown of Sydney’s train system was caused by the NSW Government, with the intention of blaming the unions.

    Australia is poorly served by its mainstream media, and the Sydney Morning Herald provided a fine example of this when they pushed the idea that it was strike action caused by unions (no, it was a lockout by the NSW Government), and this provided attack points for Morrison over the next few days against unions – it’s a pity that it was all incorrect, but that was never the point. It allowed Morrison to push the message about life under an Albanese government – train strikes every day of week; misery; inconvenience; something about communism and the left.

    In Morrison’s dystopia, there are no shades of grey, just Neanderthal simplicity: Scomo, good. Albo, bad.

    And David Lewis catches up with Ryan Bruce, who is the candidate in Aston for The New Liberals: we find out about his campaign, and what The New Liberals are all about and what the future holds for them.]]>    2958auspol,china,election2022,nswpol,ukraine,unionsfalsefull    Chasing The April Sun And An Election Disaster For The Liberal Partyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chasing-the-april-sun-and-an-election-disaster-for-the-liberal-party--48778920
    And, of course, part of the sing-song needs to include your wife and two daughters at Kirribilli House, because nothing overcomes a Liberal Party “problem with women” better than wheeling out Jen And The Girls©™ as a political “secret weapon”. Should family members be used politically to help a prime minister win an election? It would be better to stay in the background but if a spouse is going to become a part of the political process, they need to expect the scrutiny coming their way.

    A desperate government will always resort to desperate measures and a government influenced by libertarian thinking and free-market and religio-fascist Christian values will always seek the maximum advantage in the most destructive way possible. If there is a vote to be gained, nothing is too low for the Liberal Party and for Morrison to reach.

    And following on from the debacle of the Religious Discrimination Bill, Morrison and Peter Dutton – aided and abetted by a posse of Liberal Party MPs – decided to create all sorts of problems with China (as if they haven’t done enough damage already) by dropping bipartisanship on foreign relations and accusing Labor deputy leader Richard Marles of being the “Manchurian Candidate” – and their friends at News Corporation managed to find a video of Anthony Albanese speaking three sentences of Mandarin to a China–Australia forum in 2018.

    Welcome to modern Australia, as interpreted by conservatives: education and being able to speak a foreign language is rubbished, and national security and relationships with the biggest trading partner is damaged, for the sake of an unlikely and undeserved election victory. It’s another good reason why the Liberal Party needs to be turfed out at the next election.

    The weekend byelections in NSW suggest the main problems for the Morrison government will be the independents – the seat of Willoughby was almost lost to the independent candidate, Larissa Penn through a swing of 19%, and this spells trouble in the seats of North Sydney, Bennelong, Kooyong, Flinders and Goldstein.

    And how difficult will it be for the Labor Party to win the 2022 federal election? Although they are 10 percentage points ahead of the Liberal–National Coalition in the current polls – 55% to 45% – it will still be a difficult election, for mathematical reasons: they only need a net gain of seven seats, but where the votes fall will be critical to whether there are also enough seats that will change hands.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48778920Fri, 18 Feb 2022 21:00:03 +0000New PoliticsButchering a classic pop song from a 1970s Australian band and playing a ukulele might not seem like the best way to prepare for a critical election year, but that’s exactly what Scott Morrison did. It seemed bizarre but there is a method to this...
    And, of course, part of the sing-song needs to include your wife and two daughters at Kirribilli House, because nothing overcomes a Liberal Party “problem with women” better than wheeling out Jen And The Girls©™ as a political “secret weapon”. Should family members be used politically to help a prime minister win an election? It would be better to stay in the background but if a spouse is going to become a part of the political process, they need to expect the scrutiny coming their way.

    A desperate government will always resort to desperate measures and a government influenced by libertarian thinking and free-market and religio-fascist Christian values will always seek the maximum advantage in the most destructive way possible. If there is a vote to be gained, nothing is too low for the Liberal Party and for Morrison to reach.

    And following on from the debacle of the Religious Discrimination Bill, Morrison and Peter Dutton – aided and abetted by a posse of Liberal Party MPs – decided to create all sorts of problems with China (as if they haven’t done enough damage already) by dropping bipartisanship on foreign relations and accusing Labor deputy leader Richard Marles of being the “Manchurian Candidate” – and their friends at News Corporation managed to find a video of Anthony Albanese speaking three sentences of Mandarin to a China–Australia forum in 2018.

    Welcome to modern Australia, as interpreted by conservatives: education and being able to speak a foreign language is rubbished, and national security and relationships with the biggest trading partner is damaged, for the sake of an unlikely and undeserved election victory. It’s another good reason why the Liberal Party needs to be turfed out at the next election.

    The weekend byelections in NSW suggest the main problems for the Morrison government will be the independents – the seat of Willoughby was almost lost to the independent candidate, Larissa Penn through a swing of 19%, and this spells trouble in the seats of North Sydney, Bennelong, Kooyong, Flinders and Goldstein.

    And how difficult will it be for the Labor Party to win the 2022 federal election? Although they are 10 percentage points ahead of the Liberal–National Coalition in the current polls – 55% to 45% – it will still be a difficult election, for mathematical reasons: they only need a net gain of seven seats, but where the votes fall will be critical to whether there are also enough seats that will change hands.]]>    3029auspol,election2022falsefull    A Big Week In Parliament And Talking Politics With Jim Chalmershttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-big-week-in-parliament-and-talking-politics-with-jim-chalmers--48684921
    And, because it’s an election year, a funding freeze for the ABC has been lifted, which is a little bit awkward: the Liberal Party conference in 2015 voted to privatise the ABC (and SBS), and it’s one of the Institute of Public Affair’s top 50 items on its to-do list. And that’s aside from the 30 years of hardline attacks on the ABC by the Liberal Party, which have dramatically escalated since 2013.

    So much time has been spent on the Religious Discrimination Bill, a Bill that not too many people care about, or even want – but Scott Morrison believes this Bill may provide him with a narrow pathway to victory at the 2022 federal election. But it’s off the table now: the government didn’t have the parliamentary competence to manage its own legislation.

    The emphasis on a Bill that nobody wants is also instructive for the areas the government is not focusing upon: a national anti-corruption commission was promised over three years ago, but is nowhere to be seen. The Minister for Aged Care attends a cricket match, rather than face scrutiny at a Senate Estimates hearing.

    Women’s safety issues are being left behind – and didn’t Brittany Higgins and Grace Tame give the Prime Minister an earful for this: women have had enough, they’re not going to smile and be silent. The powerful never easily relinquish power, but it’s a reminder of what can be achieved with effective advocacy.

    And while the Prime Minister was very busy washing a young woman’s hair at a Coco hair salon – creepy! – the Labor Party is carefully preparing its economic agenda for when it returns to government. It will be difficult for Labor to win at the next election – as it is for any Opposition party – but they are ensuring that they are well prepared.

    Shadow Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, believes the federal government has forgotten the “people” part of the economy and the pandemic has clearly shown that a healthy economy also needs a healthy community and workforce. The current problems in the economy: wage stagnation, a generational debt without a generational dividend, poor economic management, poor management of the pandemic – all need to be addressed, but better economic thinking needs to adopted if the economy is going to “build back better”, rather than a futile “snap back” to a pre-pandemic world, which might be unachievable anyway.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48684921Fri, 11 Feb 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIt was an explosive week of Parliament, the first of very few in 2022. The government decided not to schedule too many sitting days this year because, when there’s an election year, a most secretive government doesn’t want too much scrutiny placed...
    And, because it’s an election year, a funding freeze for the ABC has been lifted, which is a little bit awkward: the Liberal Party conference in 2015 voted to privatise the ABC (and SBS), and it’s one of the Institute of Public Affair’s top 50 items on its to-do list. And that’s aside from the 30 years of hardline attacks on the ABC by the Liberal Party, which have dramatically escalated since 2013.

    So much time has been spent on the Religious Discrimination Bill, a Bill that not too many people care about, or even want – but Scott Morrison believes this Bill may provide him with a narrow pathway to victory at the 2022 federal election. But it’s off the table now: the government didn’t have the parliamentary competence to manage its own legislation.

    The emphasis on a Bill that nobody wants is also instructive for the areas the government is not focusing upon: a national anti-corruption commission was promised over three years ago, but is nowhere to be seen. The Minister for Aged Care attends a cricket match, rather than face scrutiny at a Senate Estimates hearing.

    Women’s safety issues are being left behind – and didn’t Brittany Higgins and Grace Tame give the Prime Minister an earful for this: women have had enough, they’re not going to smile and be silent. The powerful never easily relinquish power, but it’s a reminder of what can be achieved with effective advocacy.

    And while the Prime Minister was very busy washing a young woman’s hair at a Coco hair salon – creepy! – the Labor Party is carefully preparing its economic agenda for when it returns to government. It will be difficult for Labor to win at the next election – as it is for any Opposition party – but they are ensuring that they are well prepared.

    Shadow Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, believes the federal government has forgotten the “people” part of the economy and the pandemic has clearly shown that a healthy economy also needs a healthy community and workforce. The current problems in the economy: wage stagnation, a generational debt without a generational dividend, poor economic management, poor management of the pandemic – all need to be addressed, but better economic thinking needs to adopted if the economy is going to “build back better”, rather than a futile “snap back” to a pre-pandemic world, which might be unachievable anyway.]]>    3235auspol,election2022,jimchalmersfalsefull    A summer of discontent and the beginning of the end for Scott Morrisonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-summer-of-discontent-and-the-beginning-of-the-end-for-scott-morrison--48581707
    For many families, Christmas was spent in isolation, either with COVID, or waiting until the results of their PCR tests arrived – and this was in contrast to the message Scott Morrison put out in November, when he promised “the restaurants are open and a big Christmas is coming for all of us”.

    Of course, Morrison is not solely to blame for the Omicron outbreak: that blame can be fully placed at the feet of the NSW Government. But Morrison, supported by many donors and supporters in the business community, egged this on, and pushed the idea of opening up the community and the economy at any cost.

    Although Morrison claimed his government was “blindsided”, every expert warned him about the effects of the spread of Omicron, from as early as November, and explained that a population with a high infection rate, will also have a deleterious effect on the economy. And by ignoring the experts and pursuing his ideological agenda, Morrison ended up with the worst of all worlds: a sick population, a sick workforce. And a sick economy.

    The government that did fully follow the medical advice resides in Western Australia and they’ve had the best of all worlds: a healthy population, and a healthy economy growing at the rate of 3.5%. But, for some strange reason, the media and Liberal Party has attacked the state that has the most success. Partisanship in its most extreme form is an ugly sight, and the media was happy to amplify every negative small business story from Western Australia and ignore the successes of keeping the Omicron out and the community safe.

    Labor leader Anthony Albanese has had an image make-over and his performance at the National Press Club was smooth, confident and assured, whereas Morrison’s appearance was flustered, pressured and the opposite of confident. That tends to happen when journalists start asking the hostile questions and relay information from unnamed Ministers who claim Morrison is a “horrible man”, a “fraud”, and a “complete psycho”.

    Morrison is way behind in the polls and under severe pressure and, with less than four months before the next federal election, is looking less likely to be a winner. Things can always be turned around in politics, but that possibility may have slipped by and it’s hard to see how his ship of state can be turned around at all.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48581707Fri, 04 Feb 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAn absolute summer of discontent is almost sealing the fate of the Morrison government, one of the most incompetent administrations Australia has ever seen, aided and abetted by a NSW Government which has managed – or mismanaged – the Omicron outbreak...
    For many families, Christmas was spent in isolation, either with COVID, or waiting until the results of their PCR tests arrived – and this was in contrast to the message Scott Morrison put out in November, when he promised “the restaurants are open and a big Christmas is coming for all of us”.

    Of course, Morrison is not solely to blame for the Omicron outbreak: that blame can be fully placed at the feet of the NSW Government. But Morrison, supported by many donors and supporters in the business community, egged this on, and pushed the idea of opening up the community and the economy at any cost.

    Although Morrison claimed his government was “blindsided”, every expert warned him about the effects of the spread of Omicron, from as early as November, and explained that a population with a high infection rate, will also have a deleterious effect on the economy. And by ignoring the experts and pursuing his ideological agenda, Morrison ended up with the worst of all worlds: a sick population, a sick workforce. And a sick economy.

    The government that did fully follow the medical advice resides in Western Australia and they’ve had the best of all worlds: a healthy population, and a healthy economy growing at the rate of 3.5%. But, for some strange reason, the media and Liberal Party has attacked the state that has the most success. Partisanship in its most extreme form is an ugly sight, and the media was happy to amplify every negative small business story from Western Australia and ignore the successes of keeping the Omicron out and the community safe.

    Labor leader Anthony Albanese has had an image make-over and his performance at the National Press Club was smooth, confident and assured, whereas Morrison’s appearance was flustered, pressured and the opposite of confident. That tends to happen when journalists start asking the hostile questions and relay information from unnamed Ministers who claim Morrison is a “horrible man”, a “fraud”, and a “complete psycho”.

    Morrison is way behind in the polls and under severe pressure and, with less than four months before the next federal election, is looking less likely to be a winner. Things can always be turned around in politics, but that possibility may have slipped by and it’s hard to see how his ship of state can be turned around at all.]]>    3072auspol,election2022falsefull    Reinventing politics in the seat of Hughes: Georgia Steelehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/reinventing-politics-in-the-seat-of-hughes-georgia-steele--48477809
    There are many key issues not being addressed by the federal government – climate change, women’s safety, the management of the pandemic – and Steele is using these issues as a focus for her campaign, as well as taking action on integrity in politics. At a time when Australia has slipped dramatically in the international corruption index – from 85% in 2012, to its current ranking of 73% (Australia’s lowest ranking ever), it seems a focus on these issues is coming at the right time for the electorate. And for candidates who are prepared to make a stand and try to do things differently, there may be some electoral reward, because in the current era of the pandemic, doing more of the same in politics is not going to work.

    In this in-depth interview with David Lewis, Steele outlines all the reasons why she would be best placed to make positive changes to the Australian political landscape and offer the electorate of Hughes a far better voice to Parliament.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48477809Fri, 28 Jan 2022 21:00:03 +0000New PoliticsGeorgia Steele is an independent candidate in the southern Sydney seat of Hughes and is up against the current member Craig Kelly, and candidates from the major political parties. It’s a difficult task for any independent to win any federal seat but...
    There are many key issues not being addressed by the federal government – climate change, women’s safety, the management of the pandemic – and Steele is using these issues as a focus for her campaign, as well as taking action on integrity in politics. At a time when Australia has slipped dramatically in the international corruption index – from 85% in 2012, to its current ranking of 73% (Australia’s lowest ranking ever), it seems a focus on these issues is coming at the right time for the electorate. And for candidates who are prepared to make a stand and try to do things differently, there may be some electoral reward, because in the current era of the pandemic, doing more of the same in politics is not going to work.

    In this in-depth interview with David Lewis, Steele outlines all the reasons why she would be best placed to make positive changes to the Australian political landscape and offer the electorate of Hughes a far better voice to Parliament.]]>    1598auspol,hughesvotes,strongerwithsteelefalsefull    The independent voice of Boothby: Jo Dyerhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-independent-voice-of-boothby-jo-dyer--48386767
    Which major party forms government at the next election could be determined by independent candidates and there’s a fair chance of this happening, with many in the electorate disenchanted with the Morrison government but unsure if the Labor Party will provide the direction the community is interested in.

    A conversation with Jo Dyer about her views on the current state of federal politics, why she’s running as an independent candidate, why a vote away from the major parties is an important part of the democratic process, her background in creative arts, and how she hopes to be a voice for positive change in politics.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/48386767Fri, 21 Jan 2022 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsJo Dyer is the independent candidate in the South Australia seat of Boothby, the third-most marginal seat in Australia. And she’s running under the banner of the ‘Voices Of’ movement, a loose alliance of independents campaigning all across Australia...
    Which major party forms government at the next election could be determined by independent candidates and there’s a fair chance of this happening, with many in the electorate disenchanted with the Morrison government but unsure if the Labor Party will provide the direction the community is interested in.

    A conversation with Jo Dyer about her views on the current state of federal politics, why she’s running as an independent candidate, why a vote away from the major parties is an important part of the democratic process, her background in creative arts, and how she hopes to be a voice for positive change in politics.]]>    2046auspol,boothby,boothbyvotes,independentsdayfalsefull    A Big Year In Politics: 2021 In Review And A Preview Of 2022https://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-big-year-in-politics-2021-in-review-and-a-preview-of-2022--47913675
    And the biggest issue of all for 2021: the coronavirus pandemic. It can be argued that at least by the end of the year, high vaccination rates were achieved and we finally got there, but in the meantime, there were two protracted lockdowns in Sydney and Melbourne that could have been avoided, if the government had procured vaccinations far earlier. And if Australia had the right leadership in place. But that will be up to the electorate to decide at the next federal election, which will either be held in March or May 2022.

    Scott Morrison is predictable and is basing his leadership on spin and marketing. Anthony Albanese has cleaned up his image, becoming more forceful and targeted in his messaging. 2022 will be based on the three “C”s: Character, Corruption, Climate change. Or four, if you include Coronavirus. They’ve been the big issues that electorate has been thinking about during 2021, and we think they will also be the defining issues of the next federal election.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47913675Tue, 14 Dec 2021 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsAn incredible year in Australian politics, but the biggest feature was all the issues left behind and the issues that were not managed very well at all: climate change, corruption, the way women are treated within the political system. And the...
    And the biggest issue of all for 2021: the coronavirus pandemic. It can be argued that at least by the end of the year, high vaccination rates were achieved and we finally got there, but in the meantime, there were two protracted lockdowns in Sydney and Melbourne that could have been avoided, if the government had procured vaccinations far earlier. And if Australia had the right leadership in place. But that will be up to the electorate to decide at the next federal election, which will either be held in March or May 2022.

    Scott Morrison is predictable and is basing his leadership on spin and marketing. Anthony Albanese has cleaned up his image, becoming more forceful and targeted in his messaging. 2022 will be based on the three “C”s: Character, Corruption, Climate change. Or four, if you include Coronavirus. They’ve been the big issues that electorate has been thinking about during 2021, and we think they will also be the defining issues of the next federal election.]]>    1969auspolfalsefull    Independents Day In North Sydney: Kylea Tinkhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/independents-day-in-north-sydney-kylea-tink--47877644
    David Lewis speaks with Kylea Tink, the independent candidate in the seat of North Sydney, to find out why she is running for politics and how she is hoping to win the seat from the Liberal Party.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47877644Sat, 11 Dec 2021 06:30:02 +0000New PoliticsIndependent candidates are set to play a big role in the next federal election. And why are they running for election? Because they’ve had enough of the politics-as-usual approach and feel Australia is being held back by poor leadership, especially on...
    David Lewis speaks with Kylea Tink, the independent candidate in the seat of North Sydney, to find out why she is running for politics and how she is hoping to win the seat from the Liberal Party.]]>    1390auspol,independentsfalsefull    The End Of The Year In Politics And A Voice Of Goldstein Takes Flighthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-end-of-the-year-in-politics-and-a-voice-of-goldstein-takes-flight--47820859
    And if Labor is starting to release policy and make grand announcements for what they will do if they manage to form government, what better way for the Prime Minister to drown out these messages by calling for the return of a former NSW Premier to run in the seat of Warringah. Never mind the fact Gladys Berejiklian resigned because she was being investigated by the NSW ICAC over corruption matters – anything to drown out Labor policy announcements, even if it does magnify a major problem within the Liberal Party. Corruption.

    An excellent example of the Pyrrhic victory.

    And if the two-party system is not providing the answers the electorate is looking for, there are independent candidates who are willing to fill in the gaps.

    The former ABC foreign correspondent and journalist, Zoe Daniel, is the latest independent to seek a move to Canberra, and she’s running in the seat of Goldstein, under the banner of the Voices Of Goldstein. And we think she’s in with a good chance of snaring the seat from the Liberal Party. Why? Because she’s running on all of those issues the electorate is interested in: climate change action, integrity, respect for women, professionalism, honesty and decency.

    It’s been such a long time since we saw these types of values in federal politics, it might be shock to the system if they ever do return. And it’s an idea that might catch on, certainly in the seat of Goldstein.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47820859Tue, 07 Dec 2021 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsPolitical parties love to end the year with momentum and provide a springboard into the new year – especially if there’s an election coming up. Labor is starting to release some policy to address long-term political issues: climate change, skills...
    And if Labor is starting to release policy and make grand announcements for what they will do if they manage to form government, what better way for the Prime Minister to drown out these messages by calling for the return of a former NSW Premier to run in the seat of Warringah. Never mind the fact Gladys Berejiklian resigned because she was being investigated by the NSW ICAC over corruption matters – anything to drown out Labor policy announcements, even if it does magnify a major problem within the Liberal Party. Corruption.

    An excellent example of the Pyrrhic victory.

    And if the two-party system is not providing the answers the electorate is looking for, there are independent candidates who are willing to fill in the gaps.

    The former ABC foreign correspondent and journalist, Zoe Daniel, is the latest independent to seek a move to Canberra, and she’s running in the seat of Goldstein, under the banner of the Voices Of Goldstein. And we think she’s in with a good chance of snaring the seat from the Liberal Party. Why? Because she’s running on all of those issues the electorate is interested in: climate change action, integrity, respect for women, professionalism, honesty and decency.

    It’s been such a long time since we saw these types of values in federal politics, it might be shock to the system if they ever do return. And it’s an idea that might catch on, certainly in the seat of Goldstein.]]>    2545auspol,voicesofgoldsteinfalsefull    The Last Days Of The House And A Labor–Greens Alliance?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-last-days-of-the-house-and-a-labor-greens-alliance--47771541
    And with so many government MPs and Ministers resigning, is it a sign of panic? No, it’s quite normal for MPs to retire and they can’t stay in politics forever. But it certainly doesn’t help the cause of the Liberal–National Coalition. And Anthony Albanese has announced a 43% reduction in greenhouse emissions by 2030, and the sky hasn’t fallen in. Not yet, but Scott Morrison is certain to find a way of misrepresenting the policy, because that’s what he does best. Actually governing can wait for another day.

    And a Labor–Greens coalition? The Liberal Party and National Party have one, so why not? It’s a little bit more complicated but it comes down to two factors: the Liberal and National parties need each other to form government, while the Labor Party can form government by itself. And the other reason? The need has never arisen (except for 2010). And it won’t arise until we get a repeat of 2010: a hung parliament.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47771541Fri, 03 Dec 2021 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThe parliamentary year commenced with the revelations of a rape at Parliament House; it ended with a report into sexual harassment at parliamentary workplaces… and a federal minister stepping aside after he was accused of physically abusing a staffer...
    And with so many government MPs and Ministers resigning, is it a sign of panic? No, it’s quite normal for MPs to retire and they can’t stay in politics forever. But it certainly doesn’t help the cause of the Liberal–National Coalition. And Anthony Albanese has announced a 43% reduction in greenhouse emissions by 2030, and the sky hasn’t fallen in. Not yet, but Scott Morrison is certain to find a way of misrepresenting the policy, because that’s what he does best. Actually governing can wait for another day.

    And a Labor–Greens coalition? The Liberal Party and National Party have one, so why not? It’s a little bit more complicated but it comes down to two factors: the Liberal and National parties need each other to form government, while the Labor Party can form government by itself. And the other reason? The need has never arisen (except for 2010). And it won’t arise until we get a repeat of 2010: a hung parliament.]]>    1631auspolfalsefull    The Federal Chaos Continues And The Shady Sukkar Campaignhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-federal-chaos-continues-and-the-shady-sukkar-campaign--47721617
    This week’s interest? The anti-troll social media legislation which no one has ever asked for, would be ineffective (in the unlikely event that it was ever actually made into law) – but at least it took up two full days of national debate.

    Anything to avoid working on the issues that really matter: climate change, an anti-corruption commission, health, education… who knows, maybe even the economy? These are all critical issues, but what does the Morrison government want to focus on? Picking a fight with Mark Zuckerberg. Another act from a lazy government, which seems to always be on holidays, even when Parliament is sitting.

    And there are a number of community grassroots campaigns in the seat of Deakin, with the main aim of removing the sitting member, Michael Sukkar. We speak to Kieran Simpson from the Shady Sukkar campaign, and they are totally unimpressed with Sukkar and want to see him go. And as Kieran suggests, if Michael Sukkar puts himself first, it’s up the electorate to put him and the Liberal Party last. And that might end up being the result at the next federal election, and not just in the seat of Deakin.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47721617Tue, 30 Nov 2021 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsIt’s the final week of Parliament for 2021 and it’s much the same as all the other ones in recent weeks: chaos and dysfunction, and a peculiar interest in all of the issues that don’t really matter too much. This week’s interest? The anti-troll...
    This week’s interest? The anti-troll social media legislation which no one has ever asked for, would be ineffective (in the unlikely event that it was ever actually made into law) – but at least it took up two full days of national debate.

    Anything to avoid working on the issues that really matter: climate change, an anti-corruption commission, health, education… who knows, maybe even the economy? These are all critical issues, but what does the Morrison government want to focus on? Picking a fight with Mark Zuckerberg. Another act from a lazy government, which seems to always be on holidays, even when Parliament is sitting.

    And there are a number of community grassroots campaigns in the seat of Deakin, with the main aim of removing the sitting member, Michael Sukkar. We speak to Kieran Simpson from the Shady Sukkar campaign, and they are totally unimpressed with Sukkar and want to see him go. And as Kieran suggests, if Michael Sukkar puts himself first, it’s up the electorate to put him and the Liberal Party last. And that might end up being the result at the next federal election, and not just in the seat of Deakin.]]>    2271auspol,qtfalsefull    Morrison’s rabble and the Civil Disobedience of the LNPhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/morrison-s-rabble-and-the-civil-disobedience-of-the-lnp--47665706
    Chaos, division, floor-crossing and a Prime Minister who manages to speak many words in Parliament, without offering very much meaning. There’s another week – the final week – of Parliament to round off 2021, but it’s unlikely to get any better. This government is in disarray and it’s a familiar stench of incompetence and corruption that surrounds the Morrison government, that same stench that surrounded the Abbott and Turnbull governments.

    Is this the end of the Liberal–National Coalition? No, not by a long shot. ‘Rabble’ is more than an adequate term to describe this government but it has to be remembered that this disorganised and disastrous troupe of under-performers won the 2016 and 2019 federal elections. All it needs is to spruce itself up for the final three months of this term and it should be in with a chance, but there are strong doubts about whether it even has this low-level ability, or the stamina, to do this. This is one very lazy government.

    It’s not very often Australia hears politicians openly calling for ‘civil disobedience’ or throwing around the names of Hitler, Stalin, Pol Pot and Mao to boost their arguments. But that’s exactly what the LNP member for Dawson, George Christensen, did during the week. It’s usually in the domain of right-wing or left-wing extremists or those unsophisticated countries which resort to violence to resolve their political differences.

    And that’s where we are heading: a dark place which had the same feeling as the months before the Capitol Hill insurrection in the United States, earlier this year. This is a very disturbing development: if only Australia had the political leadership to avert this impending disaster.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47665706Fri, 26 Nov 2021 21:00:02 +0000New PoliticsThis term of Parliament is descending into chaos, and it’s almost as though the anarchist society has taken over the Senate and House of Representatives. But it’s not the anarchist society: it’s the Liberal–National Coalition which is now resembling a...
    Chaos, division, floor-crossing and a Prime Minister who manages to speak many words in Parliament, without offering very much meaning. There’s another week – the final week – of Parliament to round off 2021, but it’s unlikely to get any better. This government is in disarray and it’s a familiar stench of incompetence and corruption that surrounds the Morrison government, that same stench that surrounded the Abbott and Turnbull governments.

    Is this the end of the Liberal–National Coalition? No, not by a long shot. ‘Rabble’ is more than an adequate term to describe this government but it has to be remembered that this disorganised and disastrous troupe of under-performers won the 2016 and 2019 federal elections. All it needs is to spruce itself up for the final three months of this term and it should be in with a chance, but there are strong doubts about whether it even has this low-level ability, or the stamina, to do this. This is one very lazy government.

    It’s not very often Australia hears politicians openly calling for ‘civil disobedience’ or throwing around the names of Hitler, Stalin, Pol Pot and Mao to boost their arguments. But that’s exactly what the LNP member for Dawson, George Christensen, did during the week. It’s usually in the domain of right-wing or left-wing extremists or those unsophisticated countries which resort to violence to resolve their political differences.

    And that’s where we are heading: a dark place which had the same feeling as the months before the Capitol Hill insurrection in the United States, earlier this year. This is a very disturbing development: if only Australia had the political leadership to avert this impending disaster.]]>    1767auspol,qtfalsefull    Morrison’s Slogan Roadtest And We Listen To The Voices Of Kooyonghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/morrison-s-slogan-roadtest-and-we-listen-to-the-voices-of-kooyong--47618959
    All of this is real-life mass focus group testing, to feed back into Liberal Party qualitative research, almost as blasé as the Colgate-Palmolive marketing division testing slogans for soap powder advertisements. That’s what politics has become for Scott Morrison: a marketing exercise and Parliament reduced to a forum to create political slogans and campaign marketing.

    It might not be politics as we know it, but it looks more like a Prime Minister at the last chance saloon: rolling two dice to try and reach 18, when we all know the maximum is 12. Also known as desperation. Of course, this may end up in an election victory for the Liberal–National Coalition, but it’s becoming increasingly unlikely.

    And in the psychological battle between the two leaders, Anthony Albanese laid a super-size bear trap for Scott Morrison, and he fell right into it. A normal leader would avoid a return to the scene of their biggest humiliation – in Morrison’s case, the holiday trip to Hawaii during the peak of the bushfire catastrophe in 2019 – but Morrison is no normal leader, and he has to win every single battle, even the ones not worth winning. He lied about providing the destination of his holiday to Albanese – easily refuted – when he should have just apologised (again), said that he will never do that again and he learned his lesson. And we all would have moved on.

    But it became the news of the day and magnified the issue Labor wanted to focus on: Morrison is a pathological liar and untrustworthy.

    Independents are likely to have a big influence in the 2022 election, and we speak with Hayden O’Connor from the Voices of Kooyong, a campaign which wants to unseat the Treasurer and current member for Kooyong, Josh Frydenberg. It’s a tough ask, but they have the determination to consign Frydenberg to the dustbin of history.

    And wouldn’t that be a sweet victory.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47618959Tue, 23 Nov 2021 22:00:17 +0000New PoliticsIt’s increasingly obvious the Prime Minister is using the final stages of this Parliament to roadtest a number of different election slogans. Last week it was ‘Australians taking back their lives’, followed by ‘Australians have had a gutful of being...
    All of this is real-life mass focus group testing, to feed back into Liberal Party qualitative research, almost as blasé as the Colgate-Palmolive marketing division testing slogans for soap powder advertisements. That’s what politics has become for Scott Morrison: a marketing exercise and Parliament reduced to a forum to create political slogans and campaign marketing.

    It might not be politics as we know it, but it looks more like a Prime Minister at the last chance saloon: rolling two dice to try and reach 18, when we all know the maximum is 12. Also known as desperation. Of course, this may end up in an election victory for the Liberal–National Coalition, but it’s becoming increasingly unlikely.

    And in the psychological battle between the two leaders, Anthony Albanese laid a super-size bear trap for Scott Morrison, and he fell right into it. A normal leader would avoid a return to the scene of their biggest humiliation – in Morrison’s case, the holiday trip to Hawaii during the peak of the bushfire catastrophe in 2019 – but Morrison is no normal leader, and he has to win every single battle, even the ones not worth winning. He lied about providing the destination of his holiday to Albanese – easily refuted – when he should have just apologised (again), said that he will never do that again and he learned his lesson. And we all would have moved on.

    But it became the news of the day and magnified the issue Labor wanted to focus on: Morrison is a pathological liar and untrustworthy.

    Independents are likely to have a big influence in the 2022 election, and we speak with Hayden O’Connor from the Voices of Kooyong, a campaign which wants to unseat the Treasurer and current member for Kooyong, Josh Frydenberg. It’s a tough ask, but they have the determination to consign Frydenberg to the dustbin of history.

    And wouldn’t that be a sweet victory.]]>    2074auspolfalsefull    Attacking The ABC And Morrison’s Sympathy For The Devilhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/attacking-the-abc-and-morrison-s-sympathy-for-the-devil--47555058
    Yes, the ABC needs to be reformed and it shouldn’t just try to replicate what the commercial media outlets are producing, but it’s a key cultural, educational and essential services media broadcast, and one of the best in the world. But the ABC has no political friends left – the Coalition wants to privatise it and Labor, which turns up to every election promising more funds for the ABC – only for the ABC to propagandise against the Labor Party – might decide that it always campaigns for the ABC, but never receives any electoral benefit from its efforts. So it might decide it’s just not worth it. Whoever wins the next election, the future is not looking bright for the ABC.

    It took five days for Scott Morrison to make his response to the Melbourne protests, and when it came, it seemed half-hearted and expressed sympathy for the protestors. Morrison just cannot find it within himself to castigate his key supporters, even when they’re calling for the assassination of the Premier of Victoria. And it’s unclear why Morrison would want to claim this right-wing rabble as his own – these extremists are hardly going to vote for left-of-centre parties and expressing a clear condemnation of these protestors and their actions would have been the right thing for a political leader to do.

    But Morrison is purely focused on votes. After all, that’s what wins elections for a politician: votes. But some votes are not worth chasing, and it would have better to let those voters float away, which surely would have boosted support from other areas in the electoral. Sometimes, Morrison cannot help himself, and this was one of those occasions. Australia needs leadership from the federal govenment, but that might need to be delivered by another government, and a different prime minister, at some point in the future.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47555058Fri, 19 Nov 2021 22:00:06 +0000New PoliticsOnce again, the Liberal–National Coalition is attacking the ABC, and doing the bidding of News Corporation in its quest to remove the ABC from government ownership and sell if off to the highest bidder. And several state divisions of the Liberal Party...
    Yes, the ABC needs to be reformed and it shouldn’t just try to replicate what the commercial media outlets are producing, but it’s a key cultural, educational and essential services media broadcast, and one of the best in the world. But the ABC has no political friends left – the Coalition wants to privatise it and Labor, which turns up to every election promising more funds for the ABC – only for the ABC to propagandise against the Labor Party – might decide that it always campaigns for the ABC, but never receives any electoral benefit from its efforts. So it might decide it’s just not worth it. Whoever wins the next election, the future is not looking bright for the ABC.

    It took five days for Scott Morrison to make his response to the Melbourne protests, and when it came, it seemed half-hearted and expressed sympathy for the protestors. Morrison just cannot find it within himself to castigate his key supporters, even when they’re calling for the assassination of the Premier of Victoria. And it’s unclear why Morrison would want to claim this right-wing rabble as his own – these extremists are hardly going to vote for left-of-centre parties and expressing a clear condemnation of these protestors and their actions would have been the right thing for a political leader to do.

    But Morrison is purely focused on votes. After all, that’s what wins elections for a politician: votes. But some votes are not worth chasing, and it would have better to let those voters float away, which surely would have boosted support from other areas in the electoral. Sometimes, Morrison cannot help himself, and this was one of those occasions. Australia needs leadership from the federal govenment, but that might need to be delivered by another government, and a different prime minister, at some point in the future.]]>    1877auspol,melbourneprotestsfalsefull    The Anti-Vax Point of No Return And The Road To Liberal Party Oblivionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-anti-vax-point-of-no-return-and-the-road-to-liberal-party-oblivion--47502881
    The weekend protests in Melbourne attracted 5,000 people, primarily to voice their disapproval of the vaccine mandates – even though most of them won’t be affected by a mandate – but that wasn’t enough to stop them demanding the resignation of Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews, some actually calling for his assassination.

    And this wasn’t enough for Morrison to castigate their actions – these are his people, and it’s not up to him to say anything about it, or even lift a finger indirectly. For example, alerting the Australian Federal Police, or the Fixated Persons Unit. It’s not too much to ask, but Morrison is more interested in keeping votes, rather than acting in the interests of the community.

    And the latest round of polling is still pointing to an electoral demolition for the Liberal–National Coalition at the next federal election. That’s not to say Morrison can’t turn it around – after all, he was in exactly the same position in November 2018 and, six months later, he was on the victor’s podium on election night – but two elections in a row, while not impossible, is incredibly difficult.

    But one issue that won’t help is Morrison has decided to channel the 2004 election strategy used by John Howard – who do you trust?… But in typical Morrison fashion, he’s overpromised in areas that is almost impossible to keep a promise – the trifecta of low interest rates, low cost of living, and low petrol prices. We think it might be three lies too far and he’s foolish to make this promises.

    A one-off 0.25 interest rate hike, a CPI increase of 1%, or petrol prices going up by 5 cents per litre – any of these events will finish Scott Morrison off, especially if whatever he says isn’t matched by people’s lived experiences.

    He might be finished anyway, and we believe the only way Australia can move away from the current events in Melbourne is a change of government. It’s becoming more and more evident by the day.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47502881Tue, 16 Nov 2021 22:00:13 +0000New PoliticsAustralia is seeking national leadership at this point of time to ward off the threat of extremist behaviour in Melbourne but instead of trying to dampen the enthusiasm of QAnon, neo-Nazis, fascists, sovereign citizens and assorted fringe dwellers,...
    The weekend protests in Melbourne attracted 5,000 people, primarily to voice their disapproval of the vaccine mandates – even though most of them won’t be affected by a mandate – but that wasn’t enough to stop them demanding the resignation of Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews, some actually calling for his assassination.

    And this wasn’t enough for Morrison to castigate their actions – these are his people, and it’s not up to him to say anything about it, or even lift a finger indirectly. For example, alerting the Australian Federal Police, or the Fixated Persons Unit. It’s not too much to ask, but Morrison is more interested in keeping votes, rather than acting in the interests of the community.

    And the latest round of polling is still pointing to an electoral demolition for the Liberal–National Coalition at the next federal election. That’s not to say Morrison can’t turn it around – after all, he was in exactly the same position in November 2018 and, six months later, he was on the victor’s podium on election night – but two elections in a row, while not impossible, is incredibly difficult.

    But one issue that won’t help is Morrison has decided to channel the 2004 election strategy used by John Howard – who do you trust?… But in typical Morrison fashion, he’s overpromised in areas that is almost impossible to keep a promise – the trifecta of low interest rates, low cost of living, and low petrol prices. We think it might be three lies too far and he’s foolish to make this promises.

    A one-off 0.25 interest rate hike, a CPI increase of 1%, or petrol prices going up by 5 cents per litre – any of these events will finish Scott Morrison off, especially if whatever he says isn’t matched by people’s lived experiences.

    He might be finished anyway, and we believe the only way Australia can move away from the current events in Melbourne is a change of government. It’s becoming more and more evident by the day.]]>    2062auspolfalsefull    Morrison’s China Syndrome And Telling People What To Dohttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/morrison-s-china-syndrome-and-telling-people-what-to-do--47442548
    And we’re finding out more about the Coalition’s re-election strategy: lie about the past, lie about the future, lie about the lies. There can be no end to this. And there are two new election slogans to add to Scott Morrison’s reductive lexicon. “Labor wants to tell you what to do”, which, at eight words, is a massive improvement on the three-word version – and supporters of the shorter version slogan will not be disappointed. “Can-do capitalism” is the latest revelation, and it’s as empty as all of the previous slogans. But that’s not the point: this is a government that governs for the politically disengaged.

    Or, if we want to be more sophisticated, it’s what Mark Twain would call a paralysis of intellect, a label he placed upon Australia when he visited in 1895, a country which, to him, seemed quite incurious. And, 126 years later, an incurious Prime Minister who is afflicted with a paralysis of intellect is gradually being exposed as a marketing trickster.

    Anthony Albanese is becoming more assertive in his attacks on Scott Morrison, and in his attacks on journalists. And these actions suggest Labor’s internal research is giving them a greater level of confidence that they can win the next federal election.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47442548Fri, 12 Nov 2021 22:00:16 +0000New PoliticsPaul Keating was a hit at the National Press Club address during the week, but members of the federal government were not so happy about this. Because he spoke positively and realistically about China and Australia’s place in the world: which rubs...
    And we’re finding out more about the Coalition’s re-election strategy: lie about the past, lie about the future, lie about the lies. There can be no end to this. And there are two new election slogans to add to Scott Morrison’s reductive lexicon. “Labor wants to tell you what to do”, which, at eight words, is a massive improvement on the three-word version – and supporters of the shorter version slogan will not be disappointed. “Can-do capitalism” is the latest revelation, and it’s as empty as all of the previous slogans. But that’s not the point: this is a government that governs for the politically disengaged.

    Or, if we want to be more sophisticated, it’s what Mark Twain would call a paralysis of intellect, a label he placed upon Australia when he visited in 1895, a country which, to him, seemed quite incurious. And, 126 years later, an incurious Prime Minister who is afflicted with a paralysis of intellect is gradually being exposed as a marketing trickster.

    Anthony Albanese is becoming more assertive in his attacks on Scott Morrison, and in his attacks on journalists. And these actions suggest Labor’s internal research is giving them a greater level of confidence that they can win the next federal election.]]>    2167auspol,china,election2022falsefull    Liar Liar, Liberal Branch Stacking and Defamationhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/liar-liar-liberal-branch-stacking-and-defamation--47399102
    But this depends on the fine art of the political lie, of which Morrison is happy to contribute to. In 2004, John Howard opened his campaign with “who do you trust on the economy?”, flushing out memories of continuous ‘mean and tricky’ lies, and helping him to roll Mark Latham and the Labor Party on election day. Morrison will use this same strategy but he’s not as clever as Howard, and he’s not up against Latham. Will it work? He’ll certainly try it out.

    Two and half years after Anthony Albanese decreed ‘no Labor MP will use “liar” to describe their opponents’, the term has become very fashionable and Labor is now calling Morrison a liar at every opportunity. Which means its focus group testing is suggesting Morrison’s propensity to lie and misrepresent everything in sight is become a serious problem for him.

    Branch stacking occurs in all political parties but it seems that there are different media rules when it comes to reporting Liberal Party malfeasance. The Assistant Treasurer, Michael Sukkar has been accused of implementing a tax-payer funded system, where political staffers had the task of signing up Opus Dei, neo-Nazis and fascists as members of the Liberal Party, so Sukkar could hold control of the Victoria branch of the Liberal Party.

    The media has been reporting about these issues but, essentially, it’s just providing the facts without the running commentary which they always provide when the Labor Party is involved in branch stacking – ‘The MP needs to be expelled! Daniel Andrews needs to resign! Albanese too!’

    But they’ve been strangely quiet in creating a link with Scott Morrison, and when Josh Frydenberg suggested there was nothing to see here, they shrugged their shoulders and ‘moved on’. Which is just the way the Liberal Party would like it.

    And in keeping with the Liberal Party’s form in terrorising women of all persuasions, two Liberal Party MPs – Christian Porter and Andrew Laming – have threatened defamation action against the academic, Gemma Carey, who posted offensive Twitter messages about these men, who then removed those messages and publicly apologised for these messages.

    For most people, this would be enough, but these Liberal Party MPs are glass-jawed and their action is all about shutting up the people who criticise the government and members of this government. And we’re seeing why the Liberal Party encourages illiberal people such as right-wing religious fanatics, neo-Nazis and fascists to become a part of their membership.

    They’re very happy to dish out the abuse, but will ensure that when members of the public try to return serve, they’ll use laws inappropriately to crush dissent.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47399102Wed, 10 Nov 2021 00:00:07 +0000New PoliticsThere won’t be a federal election in the short term, but that doesn’t mean campaigning can’t start early. It feels like the election campaign has already commenced, with Scott Morrison wanting to ‘move on’ from all the errors from the past and present...
    But this depends on the fine art of the political lie, of which Morrison is happy to contribute to. In 2004, John Howard opened his campaign with “who do you trust on the economy?”, flushing out memories of continuous ‘mean and tricky’ lies, and helping him to roll Mark Latham and the Labor Party on election day. Morrison will use this same strategy but he’s not as clever as Howard, and he’s not up against Latham. Will it work? He’ll certainly try it out.

    Two and half years after Anthony Albanese decreed ‘no Labor MP will use “liar” to describe their opponents’, the term has become very fashionable and Labor is now calling Morrison a liar at every opportunity. Which means its focus group testing is suggesting Morrison’s propensity to lie and misrepresent everything in sight is become a serious problem for him.

    Branch stacking occurs in all political parties but it seems that there are different media rules when it comes to reporting Liberal Party malfeasance. The Assistant Treasurer, Michael Sukkar has been accused of implementing a tax-payer funded system, where political staffers had the task of signing up Opus Dei, neo-Nazis and fascists as members of the Liberal Party, so Sukkar could hold control of the Victoria branch of the Liberal Party.

    The media has been reporting about these issues but, essentially, it’s just providing the facts without the running commentary which they always provide when the Labor Party is involved in branch stacking – ‘The MP needs to be expelled! Daniel Andrews needs to resign! Albanese too!’

    But they’ve been strangely quiet in creating a link with Scott Morrison, and when Josh Frydenberg suggested there was nothing to see here, they shrugged their shoulders and ‘moved on’. Which is just the way the Liberal Party would like it.

    And in keeping with the Liberal Party’s form in terrorising women of all persuasions, two Liberal Party MPs – Christian Porter and Andrew Laming – have threatened defamation action against the academic, Gemma Carey, who posted offensive Twitter messages about these men, who then removed those messages and publicly apologised for these messages.

    For most people, this would be enough, but these Liberal Party MPs are glass-jawed and their action is all about shutting up the people who criticise the government and members of this government. And we’re seeing why the Liberal Party encourages illiberal people such as right-wing religious fanatics, neo-Nazis and fascists to become a part of their membership.

    They’re very happy to dish out the abuse, but will ensure that when members of the public try to return serve, they’ll use laws inappropriately to crush dissent.]]>    2249auspol,branchstacking,cop26falsefull    I Don’t Think, I Know: A Diplomatic Disaster and NSW Corruptionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/i-don-t-think-i-know-a-diplomatic-disaster-and-nsw-corruption--47330884
    It’s one thing to create a diplomatic problem with a long-term European ally, but it’s another issue entirely to start leaking private text messages received from the French President. And as if to outdo his own stupidity, Morrison decided it would be a good idea to leak a confidential 15-page communications document to embarrass the US President. It’s hard to know who’s advising Morrison – he might be following his own advice – but it was an incredibly foolish action, and it may take years for the relationships with France to be repaired.

    An impassioned speech at COP26 by the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, was received favourably by the world community – Morrison was in the audience but it’s hard to know if he actually listened: he ruled out supporting a 30% reduction of methane gases by 2030, and refused to join the 40 countries wanted to phase out coal production. Best to go off to the Australian pavilion at COP26 under the banner of “Positive Energy: The Australian Way” and view the Santos carbon capture to see how well they’re spending the $220 million credit they’ve received from the federal government’s $4.5 billion fund to pollute the environment.

    The former Premier of NSW – who we now believe is deserving of the moniker of “disgraced former Premier” – has provided all the evidence she needs to present to the NSW ICAC, and their findings will be presented in the early part of 2022. With Parliament no longer a forum for accountability and the media deciding to never hold conservative governments to account, the role of the NSW ICAC is becoming increasingly more important, and it’s a model which should be implemented at the federal level.

    And the release of these findings – which could be incredibly adverse for the NSW Liberal Party – could severely derail the next federal election. And there’s also a SA General Election to be held in March 2022, as well as five byelections for the NSW Parliament in the early part of the year. For the Morrison government to be re-elected at the next federal election, everything needs to start going right for them and everything is going in the opposite direction.

    It’s going to be a tough election to win.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47330884Fri, 05 Nov 2021 22:00:18 +0000New PoliticsThe Prime Minister was reluctant to go to the COP26 climate change conference and it’s obvious to see why. To say it was a diplomatic disaster is an understatement and the more Scott Morrison makes politics all about him, the more he is exposed as an...
    It’s one thing to create a diplomatic problem with a long-term European ally, but it’s another issue entirely to start leaking private text messages received from the French President. And as if to outdo his own stupidity, Morrison decided it would be a good idea to leak a confidential 15-page communications document to embarrass the US President. It’s hard to know who’s advising Morrison – he might be following his own advice – but it was an incredibly foolish action, and it may take years for the relationships with France to be repaired.

    An impassioned speech at COP26 by the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, was received favourably by the world community – Morrison was in the audience but it’s hard to know if he actually listened: he ruled out supporting a 30% reduction of methane gases by 2030, and refused to join the 40 countries wanted to phase out coal production. Best to go off to the Australian pavilion at COP26 under the banner of “Positive Energy: The Australian Way” and view the Santos carbon capture to see how well they’re spending the $220 million credit they’ve received from the federal government’s $4.5 billion fund to pollute the environment.

    The former Premier of NSW – who we now believe is deserving of the moniker of “disgraced former Premier” – has provided all the evidence she needs to present to the NSW ICAC, and their findings will be presented in the early part of 2022. With Parliament no longer a forum for accountability and the media deciding to never hold conservative governments to account, the role of the NSW ICAC is becoming increasingly more important, and it’s a model which should be implemented at the federal level.

    And the release of these findings – which could be incredibly adverse for the NSW Liberal Party – could severely derail the next federal election. And there’s also a SA General Election to be held in March 2022, as well as five byelections for the NSW Parliament in the early part of the year. For the Morrison government to be re-elected at the next federal election, everything needs to start going right for them and everything is going in the opposite direction.

    It’s going to be a tough election to win.]]>    1770auspol,cop26falsefull    The Game: A Portrait of Scott Morrison – A Conversation With Sean Kellyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-game-a-portrait-of-scott-morrison-a-conversation-with-sean-kelly--47265965
    We try to pin Morrison down, but it’s so difficult. So, we start off with the “Where the Bloody Hell Are You?” campaign: was this the beginning of Morrison’s pitch to become Prime Minister? This advertisement was a segue from one disconnected idea to the next and, in hindsight, this is Morrison’s prime ministership in a nutshell: disconnected ideas, clichés, the good times, spin and marketing… and presenting the face of Australia that masks the unpalatable reality of life.

    Politics seems to be a game for Morrison but decisions made in Canberra have real-life consequences in the real world and affect millions of people, not just in Australia, but all around the world. There are many serious issues facing Australia and during a time of pandemic and climate change, the electorate is looking to government to ameliorate these issues. It’s not a game. But will Morrison change his strategy (or his marketing plan)?

    The ‘selling of a prime minister’ got Morrison to the 2019 election and it may well get him through to the next election. But people have begun to ask questions about who Morrison is. And many in the electorate have begun to ask, ‘what else is there? Where is the real guy?’

    That will be one of the interesting points in the lead up to the next election campaign.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47265965Tue, 02 Nov 2021 22:00:08 +0000New PoliticsWhat is Scott Morrison? A brand name? A theme, a hologram, a Prime Minister, an advertisement, a football coach?… or just a person? It’s hard to know, because Morrison reveals so little of who he actually is. But does it really matter? We reveal all...
    We try to pin Morrison down, but it’s so difficult. So, we start off with the “Where the Bloody Hell Are You?” campaign: was this the beginning of Morrison’s pitch to become Prime Minister? This advertisement was a segue from one disconnected idea to the next and, in hindsight, this is Morrison’s prime ministership in a nutshell: disconnected ideas, clichés, the good times, spin and marketing… and presenting the face of Australia that masks the unpalatable reality of life.

    Politics seems to be a game for Morrison but decisions made in Canberra have real-life consequences in the real world and affect millions of people, not just in Australia, but all around the world. There are many serious issues facing Australia and during a time of pandemic and climate change, the electorate is looking to government to ameliorate these issues. It’s not a game. But will Morrison change his strategy (or his marketing plan)?

    The ‘selling of a prime minister’ got Morrison to the 2019 election and it may well get him through to the next election. But people have begun to ask questions about who Morrison is. And many in the electorate have begun to ask, ‘what else is there? Where is the real guy?’

    That will be one of the interesting points in the lead up to the next election campaign.]]>    2213auspol,cop26,scomofalsefull    The No-Action Climate Plan and Morrison’s Voter Suppressionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-no-action-climate-plan-and-morrison-s-voter-suppression--47215332
    Morrison lacks intellect and he’s incurious about the world. But he has rat cunning and will do anything to hold on to power and win the next federal election. This, of course, makes him a dangerous Prime Minister. For him, climate change is not an environmental issue, it’s a political issue that he wants to swat away with a 20-page glossy document. It’s far easier to tell the electorate what they want to hear, not what needs to be done to secure the future of Australia or take the opportunities climate change presents to the Australian economy and industry base.

    The Morrison government is now like a wounded beast, bearing its teeth at anything it thinks can provide it with advantage. And Voter ID legislation is one of those issues. It’s not an issue that has been on anyone’s agenda during this Parliamentary term, yet Scott Morrison wants to convince the public that voter fraud is a serious issue – it’s not – and present himself as someone who wants to address a major problem.

    Like the history and culture wars, this is a solution seeking a problem – not even the friends of the Liberal Party – the Institute of Public Affairs – has called for this, saying that it’s a regressive move. But if Morrison can find an advantage in voter suppression, he will go there. How else would the most corrupt and incompetent government in Australia’s history cling onto power if they only depended on legitimate efforts?

    One person who has had enough is Tony Smith, who has resigned as the Speaker of the House of Representatives. After the humiliation of been voted down by his own government, he had no choice. But there was only one more week of Parliamentary sittings for 2021: what could all this mean? He wanted do his Christmas shopping earlier? Send a message to the government? Or clear the decks for a December federal election?

    We think it could be all three.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47215332Fri, 29 Oct 2021 22:00:04 +0000New PoliticsThe Plan To Deliver Net Zero is much like the Morrison government: it’s insubstantial, inadequate, filled with political marketing and spin and, ultimately, does very little to act on climate change. It’s all about politics and directed at those...
    Morrison lacks intellect and he’s incurious about the world. But he has rat cunning and will do anything to hold on to power and win the next federal election. This, of course, makes him a dangerous Prime Minister. For him, climate change is not an environmental issue, it’s a political issue that he wants to swat away with a 20-page glossy document. It’s far easier to tell the electorate what they want to hear, not what needs to be done to secure the future of Australia or take the opportunities climate change presents to the Australian economy and industry base.

    The Morrison government is now like a wounded beast, bearing its teeth at anything it thinks can provide it with advantage. And Voter ID legislation is one of those issues. It’s not an issue that has been on anyone’s agenda during this Parliamentary term, yet Scott Morrison wants to convince the public that voter fraud is a serious issue – it’s not – and present himself as someone who wants to address a major problem.

    Like the history and culture wars, this is a solution seeking a problem – not even the friends of the Liberal Party – the Institute of Public Affairs – has called for this, saying that it’s a regressive move. But if Morrison can find an advantage in voter suppression, he will go there. How else would the most corrupt and incompetent government in Australia’s history cling onto power if they only depended on legitimate efforts?

    One person who has had enough is Tony Smith, who has resigned as the Speaker of the House of Representatives. After the humiliation of been voted down by his own government, he had no choice. But there was only one more week of Parliamentary sittings for 2021: what could all this mean? He wanted do his Christmas shopping earlier? Send a message to the government? Or clear the decks for a December federal election?

    We think it could be all three.]]>    1792auspol,cop26falsefull    Morrison’s Point Of No Return And The Net-Zero Scamhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/morrison-s-point-of-no-return-and-the-net-zero-scam--47161723
    Lighting rarely strikes twice in the same location but that’s exactly what Morrison will be looking for. His opponent, Anthony Albanese, has a different set of issues. When he first became leader, in response to criticism that he wasn’t ‘taking it up to the government’, he suggested that in politics, you have to wait until the fourth quarter and then start kicking with the wind.

    We assume he’s talking AFL but in the football parlance, Labor has been ahead at three-quarter time by 10 goals in recent elections – and kicking with the wind – but has gone on to lose those elections. Albanese did suggest there’s a possibility of an election in December, so surely this must be the fourth quarter and the wind has started to blow.

    But where’s Albanese? Still in the changerooms, keeping his powder dry. It will be a pity if the final siren blows and Albanese remains in the changeroom still rehearsing his lines and warm-ups, because there’s the possibility Morrison may have completed his victory lap by then.

    And there’s a Coalition agreement for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050? Well, the media seems to think so, even though there is no change to policy, there is no detail, and there is no modelling. A sensible mainstream media would have picked up these anomalies, and quickly outlined the accommodation of the National Party into net-zero, is actually a net-zero scam, and all based around trying to win the next election.

    All Morrison had to do was wave a slick glossy brochure at the media, and they all seemed to agree that it’s all over: climate change is no longer a political problem for the federal government. Morrison decreed that he is the man of action on climate change, the ‘man with the plan’, and the media believed him.

    Will the electorate fall for it so easily? We don’t think so.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47161723Tue, 26 Oct 2021 22:00:19 +0000New PoliticsThe latest opinions polls show Scott Morrison is still on the nose and might have reached the point of no return. It’s currently 46% to the LNP and 54% to Labor in the two-party preferred voting and while it’s always possible for governments to make...
    Lighting rarely strikes twice in the same location but that’s exactly what Morrison will be looking for. His opponent, Anthony Albanese, has a different set of issues. When he first became leader, in response to criticism that he wasn’t ‘taking it up to the government’, he suggested that in politics, you have to wait until the fourth quarter and then start kicking with the wind.

    We assume he’s talking AFL but in the football parlance, Labor has been ahead at three-quarter time by 10 goals in recent elections – and kicking with the wind – but has gone on to lose those elections. Albanese did suggest there’s a possibility of an election in December, so surely this must be the fourth quarter and the wind has started to blow.

    But where’s Albanese? Still in the changerooms, keeping his powder dry. It will be a pity if the final siren blows and Albanese remains in the changeroom still rehearsing his lines and warm-ups, because there’s the possibility Morrison may have completed his victory lap by then.

    And there’s a Coalition agreement for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050? Well, the media seems to think so, even though there is no change to policy, there is no detail, and there is no modelling. A sensible mainstream media would have picked up these anomalies, and quickly outlined the accommodation of the National Party into net-zero, is actually a net-zero scam, and all based around trying to win the next election.

    All Morrison had to do was wave a slick glossy brochure at the media, and they all seemed to agree that it’s all over: climate change is no longer a political problem for the federal government. Morrison decreed that he is the man of action on climate change, the ‘man with the plan’, and the media believed him.

    Will the electorate fall for it so easily? We don’t think so.]]>    1933auspol,climatechange,cop26,qtfalsefull    When Too Much Corruption In The Liberal Party Is Never Enoughhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/when-too-much-corruption-in-the-liberal-party-is-never-enough--47098266
    It was the NSW ICAC which commenced proceedings against these former NSW Labor MPs; and it’s the same NSW ICAC which is currently investigating the arrangements between former NSW Liberal Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, and former Wagga Wagga MP, Daryl Maguire – who decided that getting a cut from a corrupt land deal wasn’t enough; he just had to get his hands on a corrupt cash-for-visa scheme through a 10% commission. And Maguire was also running this scheme through his Parliamentary office.

    Dispatching visas is the responsibility of the Department of Immigration. And who was the Minister of Immigration during the time Maguire was operating his cash-for-visa scheme? None other than Scott Morrison who, of course, has denied any involvement with the scheme. But Morrison is a pathological liar and it’s in his interests to deny any involvement. Perhaps this is an issue a federal ICAC could investigate… if only we had one. It gives us an insight into why Morrison isn’t keen on establishing a federal ICAC and confirms our suspicions that a prime minister who does everything possible to deter a body that investigates corruption in federal politics, is more likely than not, corrupt.

    The federal parliament saw one the most egregious acts committed against the Spreaker of the House of Representatives: the Morrison government ignored a ruling by the Speaker, which has never happened in the 120-year history of federation. We now have a federal government which ignores Parliament, it ignores convention, it ignores the Constitution, it now ignores the rulings of the Speaker – which is akin to a criminal ignoring the findings of the judge. It’s contempt, and it’s the reason why corruption is allowed to fester. And a complicit media who were happy to ignore one of the most scandalous incidents ever in federal Parliament.

    It seems a November election is out of the question… but December? We always felt Morrison would call the election for May 2022 because, as a procrastinator, holding the election on the last possible date on May 22 means the decision will be made for him. Or, at least, that’s what our theory was.

    Why December? It’s obvious: the success of Scott Morrison depends on distraction. NSW and Victoria are coming out of lockdown, it will be close to Christmas; people will be thinking about the end of year, Christmas shopping and everything else… except for politics. It’s a perfect remedy for Morrison: a seal of approval because the electorate is too distracted to carefully scrutinise his poor performance over the past three years.

    It’s cynical, but that’s Scott Morrison. And it might just work.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47098266Fri, 22 Oct 2021 22:00:06 +0000New PoliticsRecent events in NSW have shown that its Independent Commission Against Corruption is doing its job, despite the protests of Scott Morrison: the Obeids and Ian Macdonald have been sentenced to jail for attempting to embezzle $100 million through a...
    It was the NSW ICAC which commenced proceedings against these former NSW Labor MPs; and it’s the same NSW ICAC which is currently investigating the arrangements between former NSW Liberal Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, and former Wagga Wagga MP, Daryl Maguire – who decided that getting a cut from a corrupt land deal wasn’t enough; he just had to get his hands on a corrupt cash-for-visa scheme through a 10% commission. And Maguire was also running this scheme through his Parliamentary office.

    Dispatching visas is the responsibility of the Department of Immigration. And who was the Minister of Immigration during the time Maguire was operating his cash-for-visa scheme? None other than Scott Morrison who, of course, has denied any involvement with the scheme. But Morrison is a pathological liar and it’s in his interests to deny any involvement. Perhaps this is an issue a federal ICAC could investigate… if only we had one. It gives us an insight into why Morrison isn’t keen on establishing a federal ICAC and confirms our suspicions that a prime minister who does everything possible to deter a body that investigates corruption in federal politics, is more likely than not, corrupt.

    The federal parliament saw one the most egregious acts committed against the Spreaker of the House of Representatives: the Morrison government ignored a ruling by the Speaker, which has never happened in the 120-year history of federation. We now have a federal government which ignores Parliament, it ignores convention, it ignores the Constitution, it now ignores the rulings of the Speaker – which is akin to a criminal ignoring the findings of the judge. It’s contempt, and it’s the reason why corruption is allowed to fester. And a complicit media who were happy to ignore one of the most scandalous incidents ever in federal Parliament.

    It seems a November election is out of the question… but December? We always felt Morrison would call the election for May 2022 because, as a procrastinator, holding the election on the last possible date on May 22 means the decision will be made for him. Or, at least, that’s what our theory was.

    Why December? It’s obvious: the success of Scott Morrison depends on distraction. NSW and Victoria are coming out of lockdown, it will be close to Christmas; people will be thinking about the end of year, Christmas shopping and everything else… except for politics. It’s a perfect remedy for Morrison: a seal of approval because the electorate is too distracted to carefully scrutinise his poor performance over the past three years.

    It’s cynical, but that’s Scott Morrison. And it might just work.]]>    2209auspol,auspolsocorruptfalsefull    Will Climate Change Sweep Morrison Out To Electoral Oblivion?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/will-climate-change-sweep-morrison-out-to-electoral-oblivion--47044465But Prince Charles said he would “be shocked” if Morrison didn’t attend and Queen Elizabeth II announced she was irritated about inaction on climate change and instructed leaders to not “just talk, act on climate”.
    Morrison is a monarchist – not as staunch as Tony Abbott, but a monarchist nevertheless. And if the Queen and the British Royal Family are showing their displeasure, then Morrison had to act. He’s in a bind: we’re still not sure if he will go to Glasgow, and we will only believe it is happening once the prime ministerial plane touches down on the tarmac at Glasgow International Airport.
    But Morrison is an opportunist and has skill in being able to manipulate any situation towards his advantage.
    Humiliation at COP26? ‘How dare the unrepresentative officials at the United Nations tell Australia what to do.’
    Billboards at Glasgow and Times Square in New York shaming Australia on climate change inaction? ‘Those inner city socialists are trying to embarrass our national pride.’
    Carbon tariffs that will crucify the Australian economy? ‘We will decide which products come into this country and the circumstances in which they arrive.’
    The Bob Brown-led anti-Adani campaign in Queensland during the 2019 federal election campaign shamed the Australian government, but backfired when locals felt they were being told what to do by outsiders and interstaters, didn’t like being told what to do, and decided to show their displeasure by giving many seats in regional Queensland a 15% swing towards the government. Morrison would be looking at this to see if can swing things his way again.
    The direction for both parties in the lead up to the next election? If it is based on climate change issues, Labor will keep it simple: if you want action on climate change, vote Labor.
    The Coalition will do the opposite, and will try to make climate change action as complex as possible, distort as many issues as possible and then declare: if you don’t understand it, don’t vote for it. It worked for Paul Keating in the 1993 GST-influenced election; it could work for Morrison now.
    So, we’re headed for another climate change election – following on the election of 1990, where Labor slid back into government on environment preferences, and the 2007 election, which according to Kevin Rudd, was the issue that was the “greatest moral challenge of our times”. And if it is another climate change election, it could just be the issue that sweeps Scott Morrison out to electoral oblivion.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/47044465Tue, 19 Oct 2021 22:00:12 +0000New PoliticsScott Morrison has changed his mind and will now attend the COP26 climate change forum in Glasgow. It was obvious Morrison didn’t want to got to COP26 for a number of reasons: it’s all about climate change action, which is anathema to the...But Prince Charles said he would “be shocked” if Morrison didn’t attend and Queen Elizabeth II announced she was irritated about inaction on climate change and instructed leaders to not “just talk, act on climate”.
    Morrison is a monarchist – not as staunch as Tony Abbott, but a monarchist nevertheless. And if the Queen and the British Royal Family are showing their displeasure, then Morrison had to act. He’s in a bind: we’re still not sure if he will go to Glasgow, and we will only believe it is happening once the prime ministerial plane touches down on the tarmac at Glasgow International Airport.
    But Morrison is an opportunist and has skill in being able to manipulate any situation towards his advantage.
    Humiliation at COP26? ‘How dare the unrepresentative officials at the United Nations tell Australia what to do.’
    Billboards at Glasgow and Times Square in New York shaming Australia on climate change inaction? ‘Those inner city socialists are trying to embarrass our national pride.’
    Carbon tariffs that will crucify the Australian economy? ‘We will decide which products come into this country and the circumstances in which they arrive.’
    The Bob Brown-led anti-Adani campaign in Queensland during the 2019 federal election campaign shamed the Australian government, but backfired when locals felt they were being told what to do by outsiders and interstaters, didn’t like being told what to do, and decided to show their displeasure by giving many seats in regional Queensland a 15% swing towards the government. Morrison would be looking at this to see if can swing things his way again.
    The direction for both parties in the lead up to the next election? If it is based on climate change issues, Labor will keep it simple: if you want action on climate change, vote Labor.
    The Coalition will do the opposite, and will try to make climate change action as complex as possible, distort as many issues as possible and then declare: if you don’t understand it, don’t vote for it. It worked for Paul Keating in the 1993 GST-influenced election; it could work for Morrison now.
    So, we’re headed for another climate change election – following on the election of 1990, where Labor slid back into government on environment preferences, and the 2007 election, which according to Kevin Rudd, was the issue that was the “greatest moral challenge of our times”. And if it is another climate change election, it could just be the issue that sweeps Scott Morrison out to electoral oblivion.]]>    1628auspol,climatechange,cop26,qtfalsefull    Minimum wage mistruths and National Party climate change corruptionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/minimum-wage-mistruths-and-national-party-climate-change-corruption--46990208
    Since 2013, wages in Australia have stagnated – coinciding with the time of the Liberal–National Coalition government – and in 2018, the Turnbull government reduced penalty rates based on old economic orthodoxy. These were real-life experiments and the promised increases in job numbers never actually occurred – and corporate profits went up, while wages went down. It was a false elixir, and help to move Australia towards a recession in early 2020. New economic thinking is needed at this time, and the Coalition seems to hold onto old economic ideas, even when there’s new research to prove them wrong.

    And if new thinking is needed on economics, there’s certainly a need for new thinking on climate change in Australia – or at least, any kind of thinking because, there’s been a paucity of intellect on developing good policy for the environment in Australia. And the latest roadblock on climate change and sensible environmental policy? The National Party, whose intransigence has been like anarchic nihilists who aren’t quite sure about why they’re resisting so much, until we explore that link between National Party MPs, mineral and gas resource companies, and the mining industry.

    The National Party claims to act in the interest of regional Australia. If this was true, they would be at the forefront of climate change action and management of the environment, because it’s the people in the regions that will suffer the most through water supply issues, rising temperatures and drought. But they’re not: the National Party is the party of corruption and vested interests and are holding the country to ransom, even though only 4 per cent of the electorate voted for them.

    If the electorate really does want effective action on climate change and the environment, it won’t be provided by the National Party, or by the Liberal Party. It’s best if these people are voted out of office; that’s becoming more obvious by the day.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46990208Fri, 15 Oct 2021 22:00:02 +0000New PoliticsHow many times have we been told by conservative business groups in Australia that minimum wages need to be kept low so businesses have more finances to employ more people? And not just minimum wages, but all wages? The only problem is this erstwhile...
    Since 2013, wages in Australia have stagnated – coinciding with the time of the Liberal–National Coalition government – and in 2018, the Turnbull government reduced penalty rates based on old economic orthodoxy. These were real-life experiments and the promised increases in job numbers never actually occurred – and corporate profits went up, while wages went down. It was a false elixir, and help to move Australia towards a recession in early 2020. New economic thinking is needed at this time, and the Coalition seems to hold onto old economic ideas, even when there’s new research to prove them wrong.

    And if new thinking is needed on economics, there’s certainly a need for new thinking on climate change in Australia – or at least, any kind of thinking because, there’s been a paucity of intellect on developing good policy for the environment in Australia. And the latest roadblock on climate change and sensible environmental policy? The National Party, whose intransigence has been like anarchic nihilists who aren’t quite sure about why they’re resisting so much, until we explore that link between National Party MPs, mineral and gas resource companies, and the mining industry.

    The National Party claims to act in the interest of regional Australia. If this was true, they would be at the forefront of climate change action and management of the environment, because it’s the people in the regions that will suffer the most through water supply issues, rising temperatures and drought. But they’re not: the National Party is the party of corruption and vested interests and are holding the country to ransom, even though only 4 per cent of the electorate voted for them.

    If the electorate really does want effective action on climate change and the environment, it won’t be provided by the National Party, or by the Liberal Party. It’s best if these people are voted out of office; that’s becoming more obvious by the day.]]>    1740auspol,climatechange,cop26,minimumwagefalsefull    The Murdoch Greenwash and a Cynical Freedom Dayhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-murdoch-greenwash-and-a-cynical-freedom-day--46938615
    Can eight years of climate change denialism – or 25 years if we include the Howard years that commenced in 1996 – be overturned within a few months before the next election? Obviously, the Liberal National Coalition believes all of this is possible and the public will believe that the party that brought coal into the chambers of Parliament is the new champion of climate change action, and is the best friend of the environment. It’s a big ask, but let’s see if there’s enough collective amnesia within the electorate to accept the biggest greenwash and about-face in Australian history.

    NSW has ended its lockdowns and is promoting itself as the Australian leader out of the pandemic and providing direction to all the other states and territories around the nation for how to ‘live with COVID’. This is a surprise to the people of Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Northern Territory, who have living without lockdowns, curfews and restrictions for most of the past 15 months, and have only had a handful of COVID cases during that time, compared to the 69,552 cases in NSW.

    And why were so many politicians of all persuasions so adamant about going to a pub to celebrate the first day of the lifting of restrictions? It’s like Australia is a nation of alcoholics: NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet and senior ministers in the front bar of a pub (sans women); Anthony Albanese sucking on a schooner at another bar; Dave Sharma toasting with a middie – and with another bloke. It looks like it’s just a pathetic blokes’ world until you realise the Australian Hotels Association donates substantial amounts of money to the Liberal Party and the Labor Party. And they’ve been actively promoting the end of lockdowns.

    And this is all neatly dovetailing into the divisive message the federal government wants to promote in the lead up to the next election: the Liberal Party is the party of freedoms, the breaker of lockdowns, the opener of the economy. The fun guys. Whereas Labor is the dull party of further restrictions, lockdowns at the sneeze of half a COVID nostril, and the denier of business and the economy.

    Labor has to keep focusing on the eight years of poor government and incompetence provided by the Liberal–National Coalition while, of course, the Coalition wants us all to forget about this and focus on freedoms. Does Labor have the skill to prosecute the case for change or will collective amnesia win out again?]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46938615Tue, 12 Oct 2021 22:00:03 +0000New PoliticsThe most surprising part of News Corporation’s greenwashing of the Liberal Party is not so much that it’s occurring right now, but the fact that it’s happening so quickly. The Liberal Party – working hand in glove with the Business Council of...
    Can eight years of climate change denialism – or 25 years if we include the Howard years that commenced in 1996 – be overturned within a few months before the next election? Obviously, the Liberal National Coalition believes all of this is possible and the public will believe that the party that brought coal into the chambers of Parliament is the new champion of climate change action, and is the best friend of the environment. It’s a big ask, but let’s see if there’s enough collective amnesia within the electorate to accept the biggest greenwash and about-face in Australian history.

    NSW has ended its lockdowns and is promoting itself as the Australian leader out of the pandemic and providing direction to all the other states and territories around the nation for how to ‘live with COVID’. This is a surprise to the people of Western Australia, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Northern Territory, who have living without lockdowns, curfews and restrictions for most of the past 15 months, and have only had a handful of COVID cases during that time, compared to the 69,552 cases in NSW.

    And why were so many politicians of all persuasions so adamant about going to a pub to celebrate the first day of the lifting of restrictions? It’s like Australia is a nation of alcoholics: NSW Premier Dominic Perrottet and senior ministers in the front bar of a pub (sans women); Anthony Albanese sucking on a schooner at another bar; Dave Sharma toasting with a middie – and with another bloke. It looks like it’s just a pathetic blokes’ world until you realise the Australian Hotels Association donates substantial amounts of money to the Liberal Party and the Labor Party. And they’ve been actively promoting the end of lockdowns.

    And this is all neatly dovetailing into the divisive message the federal government wants to promote in the lead up to the next election: the Liberal Party is the party of freedoms, the breaker of lockdowns, the opener of the economy. The fun guys. Whereas Labor is the dull party of further restrictions, lockdowns at the sneeze of half a COVID nostril, and the denier of business and the economy.

    Labor has to keep focusing on the eight years of poor government and incompetence provided by the Liberal–National Coalition while, of course, the Coalition wants us all to forget about this and focus on freedoms. Does Labor have the skill to prosecute the case for change or will collective amnesia win out again?]]>    1807auspol,climatechange,cop26,nswpolfalsefull    International Failures and Morrison Attacks the West and the Northhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/international-failures-and-morrison-attacks-the-west-and-the-north--46882074
    The French government has instructed its diplomats to ‘go hard’ on Australia in the upcoming free trade negotiations with the European Union, and to go even harder when it comes to the imposition of carbon tariffs. Australia is going to be whipped at the upcoming COP26 climate change meetings, and it’s probably wise for Scott Morrison to not attend. It’s going to be a humiliation like no other.

    And if diplomacy on the international stage is not the Morrison government’s forte, it displays even less on the national stage. Instead of making soothing tones to try an appease difficult negotiations on GST reform and increased hospital funding, Scott Morrison’s natural reaction is to create division and seek opportunities. The ‘divide and rule’ philosophy worked very well for the Roman Empire – until it no longer worked and caused a long-term force in Europe to crumble. And it happened relatively quickly.

    This might a portent for the Morrison government: the pandemic has been a time for unity, whereas all they’ve provided is division and argument at every turn. It’s almost as though their willing on their own demise.

    Attacking the governments of Western Australia and Queensland is not a vote-winner for the federal government; in fact, it works in reverse. It’s easy for Western Australia and Queensland to whip up a frenzy against the federal government – and perhaps it only the residents of those states who can understand this phenomenon. And it’s a whole lot easier when the national leader is seen as the ‘Prime Minister of New South Wales’.

    The state and territory governments have requested more funding for hospitals – $8 billion each year until the end of 2023. But Morrison and Josh Frydenberg say ‘no’, even though they gave $21 billion in JobKeeper support to corporations who made profits and increased their bottom line during the pandemic. It’s always a question of priorities but this federal government always seems to choose the wrong ones.

    Another piece of advice for Morrison: stop attacking state governments. It might appeal to the base of the Liberal Party and the conspiracy theorists in the community that despise all governments (but might be partial to a Prime Minister who kicks into regimes he doesn’t like) but, overall, it’s a net vote losing act.

    And it might provide Morrison a massive loss at the next federal election.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46882074Fri, 08 Oct 2021 22:00:04 +0000New PoliticsThere’s continuing fallout from the broken French submarines deal, and a humiliated country will seek retribution in other ways. Australia didn’t learn the lessons given by China, where the Australian government pressured the WHO to investigate the...
    The French government has instructed its diplomats to ‘go hard’ on Australia in the upcoming free trade negotiations with the European Union, and to go even harder when it comes to the imposition of carbon tariffs. Australia is going to be whipped at the upcoming COP26 climate change meetings, and it’s probably wise for Scott Morrison to not attend. It’s going to be a humiliation like no other.

    And if diplomacy on the international stage is not the Morrison government’s forte, it displays even less on the national stage. Instead of making soothing tones to try an appease difficult negotiations on GST reform and increased hospital funding, Scott Morrison’s natural reaction is to create division and seek opportunities. The ‘divide and rule’ philosophy worked very well for the Roman Empire – until it no longer worked and caused a long-term force in Europe to crumble. And it happened relatively quickly.

    This might a portent for the Morrison government: the pandemic has been a time for unity, whereas all they’ve provided is division and argument at every turn. It’s almost as though their willing on their own demise.

    Attacking the governments of Western Australia and Queensland is not a vote-winner for the federal government; in fact, it works in reverse. It’s easy for Western Australia and Queensland to whip up a frenzy against the federal government – and perhaps it only the residents of those states who can understand this phenomenon. And it’s a whole lot easier when the national leader is seen as the ‘Prime Minister of New South Wales’.

    The state and territory governments have requested more funding for hospitals – $8 billion each year until the end of 2023. But Morrison and Josh Frydenberg say ‘no’, even though they gave $21 billion in JobKeeper support to corporations who made profits and increased their bottom line during the pandemic. It’s always a question of priorities but this federal government always seems to choose the wrong ones.

    Another piece of advice for Morrison: stop attacking state governments. It might appeal to the base of the Liberal Party and the conspiracy theorists in the community that despise all governments (but might be partial to a Prime Minister who kicks into regimes he doesn’t like) but, overall, it’s a net vote losing act.

    And it might provide Morrison a massive loss at the next federal election.]]>    1901auspol,nswpolfalsefull    The aura of Saint Gladys and which corrupt MPs will a federal ICAC investigate?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-aura-of-saint-gladys-and-which-corrupt-mps-will-a-federal-icac-investigate--46829450
    Politicians are not rock stars, and journalists are not their groupies, even though that’s how they behave: too close to action; too close to the people they seem to love. And too close to report and analyze without fear or favour. And their love of Berejiklian means that they mourn her resignation like the loss of a close friend, rather than focusing on the allegations of corruption.

    As Paul Keating once said, if you want a friend in politics, get a dog. Politicians are not rock stars; they are there to do a job in the interests of the public, and we want them to be competent. Leave the rock star business (and the song and dance) to the real rock stars, and then the media can investigate what political leaders get up to behind the scenes. And it’s an untidy and messy sight.

    Perhaps if the mainstream media performed the job they are supposed to do – make powerful people accountable to the public – Berejiklian might have thought twice about engaging in activities that are now the focus of the NSW ICAC.

    And all of this has resulted in a new Premier in NSW, Dominic Perrottet. We’re not sure how long he’ll last – because he might also be receiving a few phone calls from the NSW ICAC over the iCare state insurance scandal – and NSW might be looking for another Premier before the next NSW election, due in March 2023.

    And why is the federal government so fearful of a federal commission against corruption? We’ve estimated that if a federal ICAC was created according to existing state and territory guidelines, at least 11 sitting government Members of Parliament would be the subject of inquiries – and that’s just based on the information that’s publicly available. So, it’s obvious why they’re not introducing a federal ICAC – they’d be the first ones to appear in dock. That’s the only reason they’ve been so reluctant to create a federal ICAC with retrospective powers.

    It might be up to Labor to introduce such a body – but only if they’re sure that none of their MPs will be dragged into such a commission – and, obviously, a federal ICAC can only happen if they win the next federal election. It will never occur under a Liberal–National Coalition, they have too much to lose.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46829450Tue, 05 Oct 2021 22:00:10 +0000New PoliticsThere’s been far too much adulation from the media for the former Premier of New South Wales, Gladys Berejiklian, who took the decision to resign from Parliament, after the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption declared she is a person of...
    Politicians are not rock stars, and journalists are not their groupies, even though that’s how they behave: too close to action; too close to the people they seem to love. And too close to report and analyze without fear or favour. And their love of Berejiklian means that they mourn her resignation like the loss of a close friend, rather than focusing on the allegations of corruption.

    As Paul Keating once said, if you want a friend in politics, get a dog. Politicians are not rock stars; they are there to do a job in the interests of the public, and we want them to be competent. Leave the rock star business (and the song and dance) to the real rock stars, and then the media can investigate what political leaders get up to behind the scenes. And it’s an untidy and messy sight.

    Perhaps if the mainstream media performed the job they are supposed to do – make powerful people accountable to the public – Berejiklian might have thought twice about engaging in activities that are now the focus of the NSW ICAC.

    And all of this has resulted in a new Premier in NSW, Dominic Perrottet. We’re not sure how long he’ll last – because he might also be receiving a few phone calls from the NSW ICAC over the iCare state insurance scandal – and NSW might be looking for another Premier before the next NSW election, due in March 2023.

    And why is the federal government so fearful of a federal commission against corruption? We’ve estimated that if a federal ICAC was created according to existing state and territory guidelines, at least 11 sitting government Members of Parliament would be the subject of inquiries – and that’s just based on the information that’s publicly available. So, it’s obvious why they’re not introducing a federal ICAC – they’d be the first ones to appear in dock. That’s the only reason they’ve been so reluctant to create a federal ICAC with retrospective powers.

    It might be up to Labor to introduce such a body – but only if they’re sure that none of their MPs will be dragged into such a commission – and, obviously, a federal ICAC can only happen if they win the next federal election. It will never occur under a Liberal–National Coalition, they have too much to lose.]]>    2002auspol,federalicac,nswpolfalsefull    The Stench of Corruption in NSW and the Turnbull–Morrison Warhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-stench-of-corruption-in-nsw-and-the-turnbull-morrison-war--46775546
    There were many tears and Berejiklian resigned reluctantly, giving the impressive that the ICAC was just a minor irritant that shouldn’t be standing in her way. Her greatest supporters – the mainstream media – have been reporting her departure as though she is resigning because of family circumstances, or some other misfortune, and completely neglecting the fact that there are serious allegations of her behaviour as Treasurer and Premier.

    Perhaps it’s a sign of how low the threshold has become within Australian politics: a Premier resigning under the shadow of corruption is lauded as “one of the greatest Premiers ever”. It’s almost as absurd as suggesting the disgraced Labor MP, Eddie Obeid, is one of the greatest Minister for Resources ever (if only we can ignore the $100 million worth of corruption).

    There is no fury greater than a Prime Minister ousted in a leadership challenge, and Malcolm Turnbull has arrived on the public stage with a vast array of verbal artillery to fire off at the incumbent: Scott Morrison. The botched French submarines deal; the poor vaccination rollout; inaction on climate change: everything is a target. On the day before Morrison ousted Turnbull, he said that he was “ambitious for my leader”. It seems Turnbull won’t be reciprocating, is totally unambitious for his leader and doing his best to repay the humiliation Morrison afforded to him on that fateful day in August 2018. This will be a story that has some way to play.

    Several weeks ago, Kristina Keneally was inserted as a preselection candidate in the South-West Sydney seat of Fowler. It’s better for candidates to be preselected by the local membership but, sometimes, it‘s better to choose the best person, even if they are from outside of the area. This is an issue within politics, but all political parties do it: nevertheless, we assumed the issue would blow over, but the mainstream media has decided to revisit the seat of Fowler, no doubt to create problems for the Labor Party in the lead up to the next federal election.

    Adrian Boothman was a long-time resident in the seat of Fowler and a former Labor Party staffer and advisor – we spoke to Adrian to see if there’s a different perspective to the one presented in the mainstream media. And – can you believe it – yes, there is perspective that is closer to the facts on the ground.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46775546Fri, 01 Oct 2021 23:00:13 +0000New PoliticsIt happened quickly but it wasn’t really a shock when the NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, resigned after it was revealed that the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption was commenced proceedings to investigate whether she acted corruptly in...
    There were many tears and Berejiklian resigned reluctantly, giving the impressive that the ICAC was just a minor irritant that shouldn’t be standing in her way. Her greatest supporters – the mainstream media – have been reporting her departure as though she is resigning because of family circumstances, or some other misfortune, and completely neglecting the fact that there are serious allegations of her behaviour as Treasurer and Premier.

    Perhaps it’s a sign of how low the threshold has become within Australian politics: a Premier resigning under the shadow of corruption is lauded as “one of the greatest Premiers ever”. It’s almost as absurd as suggesting the disgraced Labor MP, Eddie Obeid, is one of the greatest Minister for Resources ever (if only we can ignore the $100 million worth of corruption).

    There is no fury greater than a Prime Minister ousted in a leadership challenge, and Malcolm Turnbull has arrived on the public stage with a vast array of verbal artillery to fire off at the incumbent: Scott Morrison. The botched French submarines deal; the poor vaccination rollout; inaction on climate change: everything is a target. On the day before Morrison ousted Turnbull, he said that he was “ambitious for my leader”. It seems Turnbull won’t be reciprocating, is totally unambitious for his leader and doing his best to repay the humiliation Morrison afforded to him on that fateful day in August 2018. This will be a story that has some way to play.

    Several weeks ago, Kristina Keneally was inserted as a preselection candidate in the South-West Sydney seat of Fowler. It’s better for candidates to be preselected by the local membership but, sometimes, it‘s better to choose the best person, even if they are from outside of the area. This is an issue within politics, but all political parties do it: nevertheless, we assumed the issue would blow over, but the mainstream media has decided to revisit the seat of Fowler, no doubt to create problems for the Labor Party in the lead up to the next federal election.

    Adrian Boothman was a long-time resident in the seat of Fowler and a former Labor Party staffer and advisor – we spoke to Adrian to see if there’s a different perspective to the one presented in the mainstream media. And – can you believe it – yes, there is perspective that is closer to the facts on the ground.]]>    2121auspol,auspolsocorrupt,cop26,nswpolfalsefull    The COP-out on Climate Change and a COVID Roadmap to Where?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-cop-out-on-climate-change-and-a-covid-roadmap-to-where--46724686
    And politics is never too far from COVID – the Victoria and NSW governments have almost identical roadmaps out of COVID, but it’s the Victoria government Morrison is taking aim at. And while he’s at it, the Western Australian and Queensland government on borders. Morrison thrives on division and chaos for two reasons – because he does not have a bone of decency in him and knows no other way, and it helps to mask his mismanagement of COVID during 2021 and the corruption and incompetence that has riddled his government since he became Prime Minister in 2018.

    But the independents may have a say in this: they’re coming for the Liberal Party, they mean business and they’ve had enough of a lack of action on climate change, and they’ve had enough of incompetency, corruption and indecency. The next federal election might end up being Independents Day.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46724686Wed, 29 Sep 2021 01:00:04 +0000New PoliticsThe United Nations Climate Change Conference – COP26 – is coming up soon, but Scott Morrison is toying with the idea of not attending the event in Glasgow. This is the most important climate change conference since 2015 – and possibly ever – but...
    And politics is never too far from COVID – the Victoria and NSW governments have almost identical roadmaps out of COVID, but it’s the Victoria government Morrison is taking aim at. And while he’s at it, the Western Australian and Queensland government on borders. Morrison thrives on division and chaos for two reasons – because he does not have a bone of decency in him and knows no other way, and it helps to mask his mismanagement of COVID during 2021 and the corruption and incompetence that has riddled his government since he became Prime Minister in 2018.

    But the independents may have a say in this: they’re coming for the Liberal Party, they mean business and they’ve had enough of a lack of action on climate change, and they’ve had enough of incompetency, corruption and indecency. The next federal election might end up being Independents Day.]]>    1819auspol,cop26,covid19falsefull    The Anti-Vaxx Attack on Melbourne, Newpoll and Kissing the Ring of Rupert Murdochhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-anti-vaxx-attack-on-melbourne-newpoll-and-kissing-the-ring-of-rupert-murdoch--46667618
    Of course, there were union members within the rent-a-crowd but it wasn’t an event organised, promoted or condoned by the CFMEU: real unionists wouldn’t protest on the West Gate Bridge – a site where 35 union died when a slab fell from the bridge in 1970; real unionists wouldn't desecrate the Shrine of Remembrance; and real unionists certainly wouldn’t cross-dress and wear wigs to try and trick and police into thinking they’re a 74-year-old grandmother.

    But it’s a handy lever for the Morrison government to pull in the lead up to the next federal election, happy to create a link between the riots, unions – even though they had nothing to with the riots – and, of course, the Labor leader: Anthony Albanese.

    And you just know that an election is coming up soon: Scott Morrison went to New York and it wasn’t clear why, until we checked his itinerary and found out he was meeting with the head of News Corporation – Robert Thomson. Not quite Rupert Murdoch, but Murdoch is over 90 years old, so perhaps not up to anointing Morrison as his chosen leader and allowing him to kiss the ring of approval.

    Every Prime Minister does this in the lead up to an election, and Murdoch has such a hold over Australian politics that it’s now a ritual. Bill Shorten didn’t travel to New York before the 2019 federal election, and he paid the price: he didn’t become Prime Minister. Whether he likes it or not, Albanese should head over to New York as soon as possible to kiss that ring: in Australian politics, it’s the only way to become Prime Minister.

    The latest Newspoll – yes, it does show that Labor is ahead in the polls, and has been ahead in all polls since October 2020. But we’ve seen this story before: 2019 – Labor ahead in every poll for three years. 2016, just before the election, and especially during the time of Tony Abbott’s prime ministership. Before that: 1998, 2001. Labor had massive leads in all of those Parliamentary periods but ended up being empty handed on election day.

    So, put away that champagne, stop imagining Albanese living in The Lodge and leading the Labor Party to an election victory in the next federal election. The only poll that counts, is the one held on the election day (and the preceding two-week early voting period).

    It’s a cliche, but it’s the truest cliche in politics. These polls mean absolutely nothing.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46667618Fri, 24 Sep 2021 23:00:10 +0000New PoliticsMelbourne has had a big week: it’s long suffering populace had to put up with a barrage of abuse from the Melbourne conservative media, a rent-a-crowd protest dressed up like union members and 74-year-old grandmothers attacked the city and, to top...
    Of course, there were union members within the rent-a-crowd but it wasn’t an event organised, promoted or condoned by the CFMEU: real unionists wouldn’t protest on the West Gate Bridge – a site where 35 union died when a slab fell from the bridge in 1970; real unionists wouldn't desecrate the Shrine of Remembrance; and real unionists certainly wouldn’t cross-dress and wear wigs to try and trick and police into thinking they’re a 74-year-old grandmother.

    But it’s a handy lever for the Morrison government to pull in the lead up to the next federal election, happy to create a link between the riots, unions – even though they had nothing to with the riots – and, of course, the Labor leader: Anthony Albanese.

    And you just know that an election is coming up soon: Scott Morrison went to New York and it wasn’t clear why, until we checked his itinerary and found out he was meeting with the head of News Corporation – Robert Thomson. Not quite Rupert Murdoch, but Murdoch is over 90 years old, so perhaps not up to anointing Morrison as his chosen leader and allowing him to kiss the ring of approval.

    Every Prime Minister does this in the lead up to an election, and Murdoch has such a hold over Australian politics that it’s now a ritual. Bill Shorten didn’t travel to New York before the 2019 federal election, and he paid the price: he didn’t become Prime Minister. Whether he likes it or not, Albanese should head over to New York as soon as possible to kiss that ring: in Australian politics, it’s the only way to become Prime Minister.

    The latest Newspoll – yes, it does show that Labor is ahead in the polls, and has been ahead in all polls since October 2020. But we’ve seen this story before: 2019 – Labor ahead in every poll for three years. 2016, just before the election, and especially during the time of Tony Abbott’s prime ministership. Before that: 1998, 2001. Labor had massive leads in all of those Parliamentary periods but ended up being empty handed on election day.

    So, put away that champagne, stop imagining Albanese living in The Lodge and leading the Labor Party to an election victory in the next federal election. The only poll that counts, is the one held on the election day (and the preceding two-week early voting period).

    It’s a cliche, but it’s the truest cliche in politics. These polls mean absolutely nothing.]]>    2669auspol,melbourneriots,newspollfalsefull    A Week of Disaster and Corruption: Preselections, COVID Outbreaks, Submarines and Blind Trustshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-week-of-disaster-and-corruption-preselections-covid-outbreaks-submarines-and-blind-trusts--46566027
    It was like the final show on Broadway: NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian decided the 11am media conferences were going to end, because she didn’t want to give the COVID outbreak the gravity it deserves. And a few journalists were starting to ask difficult questions about corruption and her involvement in a $5 million grant in Wagga Wagga. But then Berejiklian uncancelled her cancellation, and much to the bemusement of the citizens of NSW, she appeared in a media conference at 11am on Monday, the day after she said they wouldn’t proceed any further. And the NSW Labor leader, Chris Minns held his own media conference at the same time to highlight all the problems with the management of COVID by the NSW Government. Any relationship between these two events would surely be co-incidental. Wouldn’t they?

    A $90 billion deal with a French submarine company to provide 12 submarines had been scuppered and the Australian Government has signed a tripartite deal with the UK and US to purchase shiny new nuclear-powered submarines – in the year 2040. So, in one fell swoop, we managed to annoy the French and Chinese governments, and send a message to the rest of the world community that Australia is a friend which cannot be trusted. But this is all about politics and the bigger question keeps being ignored: why does Australia need nuclear-powered submarines at a cost of over $100 billion?

    And Christian Porter is in trouble again, this time, a blind trust has been created to cover his legal costs from a defamation which was settled before it reached trial. But why would a blind trust be created in this way? What does Porter have to hide? The error-prone Porter is likely to keep making mistakes and Morrison is likely to sack him from the frontbench. And if he had any political sense, this would be his first course of action on Monday morning: Porter is now a serious political liability.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46566027Fri, 17 Sep 2021 23:00:12 +0000New PoliticsThe Labor factions are at it again, this time creating a preselection problem in South West Sydney. Kristina Keneally is a former NSW Premier and sits in the Senate, but if she wanted to continue in politics, she had to be parachuted into the seat of...
    It was like the final show on Broadway: NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian decided the 11am media conferences were going to end, because she didn’t want to give the COVID outbreak the gravity it deserves. And a few journalists were starting to ask difficult questions about corruption and her involvement in a $5 million grant in Wagga Wagga. But then Berejiklian uncancelled her cancellation, and much to the bemusement of the citizens of NSW, she appeared in a media conference at 11am on Monday, the day after she said they wouldn’t proceed any further. And the NSW Labor leader, Chris Minns held his own media conference at the same time to highlight all the problems with the management of COVID by the NSW Government. Any relationship between these two events would surely be co-incidental. Wouldn’t they?

    A $90 billion deal with a French submarine company to provide 12 submarines had been scuppered and the Australian Government has signed a tripartite deal with the UK and US to purchase shiny new nuclear-powered submarines – in the year 2040. So, in one fell swoop, we managed to annoy the French and Chinese governments, and send a message to the rest of the world community that Australia is a friend which cannot be trusted. But this is all about politics and the bigger question keeps being ignored: why does Australia need nuclear-powered submarines at a cost of over $100 billion?

    And Christian Porter is in trouble again, this time, a blind trust has been created to cover his legal costs from a defamation which was settled before it reached trial. But why would a blind trust be created in this way? What does Porter have to hide? The error-prone Porter is likely to keep making mistakes and Morrison is likely to sack him from the frontbench. And if he had any political sense, this would be his first course of action on Monday morning: Porter is now a serious political liability.]]>    2757auspol,gladysfail,nswpolfalsefull    The ghosts of Pfizer return and women left behind againhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ghosts-of-pfizer-return-and-women-left-behind-again--46461976
    There’s two issues here: the constant denials – which continue to be provided by Scott Morrison and the Minister for Health, Greg Hunt – and a deal which could have delivered the Pfizer vaccines to Australia in early 2021, offered protection to the community and avoided the current lockdowns, was squandered by the federal government.

    And this has become critical: on a day when NSW recorded 1542 new cases of coronavirus and nine deaths, it’s a issue the federal government wants the public to forget. And those merchants of collective amnesia, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and the NSW Government, have decided to cancel daily media conferences, even though the number of cases is going to peak in a few weeks’ time. It’s an abrogation of responsibility and is a tactic to avoid scrutiny and accountability. It’s going to backfire.

    The National Summit on Women’s Safety was held during the week, but it was hard not to think that the event was all about the Prime Minister and his desire to resolve the politics of the issue, rather than the issue itself. Sexual harassment, sexual violence and domestic violence perpetrated against women are serious issues in Australia – and costs the economy around $26 billion per year – but that’s not enough for the Liberal Party to take enough notice of these issues and the Summit was a missed opportunity.

    We have been criticised for being too Sydney-centric but we have news from Victoria! – a state which has a new (but recycled) Leader of the Opposition – Matthew Guy. He was the leader of the Liberal Party at the 2018 Victoria election and lost 11 seats – leaders can become more successful when they return to the leadership a second time: Winston Churchill, John Howard, Jeff Kennett – but the successes of recycled leaders are few and far between. It’s going to be hard road ahead.

    And the “you only had two jobs” message is starting to get through to the electorate. It’s a message pushed through by federal Labor and it relates to the poor vaccination rollout, and the bungles in hotel quarantine.

    It’s a message that can only be sustained during this current lockdown period and if NSW and Victoria ever do come out of their respective lockdowns before the next election, a new election message will need to be developed. But the Liberal–National government has had close to eight years of mismanagement and left behind a trail of incompetence. Labor shouldn’t have too many problems finding other issues to campaign on.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46461976Fri, 10 Sep 2021 23:00:08 +0000New PoliticsIt has been confirmed that the federal government was contacted by Pfizer in June 2020 to provide Australia with 40 million doses – which wasn’t taken up by the government – after months of denying the story and suggesting that everyone else was...
    There’s two issues here: the constant denials – which continue to be provided by Scott Morrison and the Minister for Health, Greg Hunt – and a deal which could have delivered the Pfizer vaccines to Australia in early 2021, offered protection to the community and avoided the current lockdowns, was squandered by the federal government.

    And this has become critical: on a day when NSW recorded 1542 new cases of coronavirus and nine deaths, it’s a issue the federal government wants the public to forget. And those merchants of collective amnesia, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian and the NSW Government, have decided to cancel daily media conferences, even though the number of cases is going to peak in a few weeks’ time. It’s an abrogation of responsibility and is a tactic to avoid scrutiny and accountability. It’s going to backfire.

    The National Summit on Women’s Safety was held during the week, but it was hard not to think that the event was all about the Prime Minister and his desire to resolve the politics of the issue, rather than the issue itself. Sexual harassment, sexual violence and domestic violence perpetrated against women are serious issues in Australia – and costs the economy around $26 billion per year – but that’s not enough for the Liberal Party to take enough notice of these issues and the Summit was a missed opportunity.

    We have been criticised for being too Sydney-centric but we have news from Victoria! – a state which has a new (but recycled) Leader of the Opposition – Matthew Guy. He was the leader of the Liberal Party at the 2018 Victoria election and lost 11 seats – leaders can become more successful when they return to the leadership a second time: Winston Churchill, John Howard, Jeff Kennett – but the successes of recycled leaders are few and far between. It’s going to be hard road ahead.

    And the “you only had two jobs” message is starting to get through to the electorate. It’s a message pushed through by federal Labor and it relates to the poor vaccination rollout, and the bungles in hotel quarantine.

    It’s a message that can only be sustained during this current lockdown period and if NSW and Victoria ever do come out of their respective lockdowns before the next election, a new election message will need to be developed. But the Liberal–National government has had close to eight years of mismanagement and left behind a trail of incompetence. Labor shouldn’t have too many problems finding other issues to campaign on.]]>    2608auspol,gladysfail,nswpolfalsefull    COVID politics and the end of the Liberal Party?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/covid-politics-and-the-end-of-the-liberal-party--46363458Tribal partisanship is perhaps at its worst level ever in Australian history, as is the partisanship within the media, which is keen to see a return of this federal government at the next election. And the election may be with us early than we think: the theory is that NSW will open up in late October – irrespective of how high the daily case numbers are – and hold an election in November. It’s a radical plan, as is the radical belief of the NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, to allow as many deaths as the coronavirus will accept, all for the sake of a sacrifice to the altar of rampant capitalism. And for the NSW Liberal Party. It will be a day of shame, not a day of celebration.
    Are we seeing the end of the Liberal Party? It’s not the party of Robert Menzies, but more like the party of John Howard: it’s illiberal, it’s intolerant, it neglects the people on the periphery. The modern Liberal Party is a conservative outfit which has adopted the worst traits of Boris Johnson and Donald Trump. Political parties need to be relevant to the needs of the community, but as the world makes a turn to more communitarian values, Australia is stuck with a reactionary group of extremists who are increasingly out of touch. This doesn’t mean the Labor Party will automatically win the next federal election: they have their own problems, and will still need to convince the electorate that they can be a viable government. But they have a better chance of winning the election than they did at the beginning of 2021.
    The report into “who knew what” about the sexual assault of Brittany Higgins at Parliament House in 2019 was meant to have been completed several months ago – but how can a report be released if it doesn’t exist? We doubt that it will ever be released – and if it is, that’s the end of Scott Morrison – and the Liberal Party, and possibly for a long time.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46363458Fri, 03 Sep 2021 23:00:07 +0000New Politicshe politics of the COVID pandemic are still being played as hard as possible – at a time when the public craves unity and expecting governments to manage the crisis in the best way possible. It would seem that the Queensland and Western Australian...Tribal partisanship is perhaps at its worst level ever in Australian history, as is the partisanship within the media, which is keen to see a return of this federal government at the next election. And the election may be with us early than we think: the theory is that NSW will open up in late October – irrespective of how high the daily case numbers are – and hold an election in November. It’s a radical plan, as is the radical belief of the NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, to allow as many deaths as the coronavirus will accept, all for the sake of a sacrifice to the altar of rampant capitalism. And for the NSW Liberal Party. It will be a day of shame, not a day of celebration.
    Are we seeing the end of the Liberal Party? It’s not the party of Robert Menzies, but more like the party of John Howard: it’s illiberal, it’s intolerant, it neglects the people on the periphery. The modern Liberal Party is a conservative outfit which has adopted the worst traits of Boris Johnson and Donald Trump. Political parties need to be relevant to the needs of the community, but as the world makes a turn to more communitarian values, Australia is stuck with a reactionary group of extremists who are increasingly out of touch. This doesn’t mean the Labor Party will automatically win the next federal election: they have their own problems, and will still need to convince the electorate that they can be a viable government. But they have a better chance of winning the election than they did at the beginning of 2021.
    The report into “who knew what” about the sexual assault of Brittany Higgins at Parliament House in 2019 was meant to have been completed several months ago – but how can a report be released if it doesn’t exist? We doubt that it will ever be released – and if it is, that’s the end of Scott Morrison – and the Liberal Party, and possibly for a long time.]]>    2739auspol,gladysfail,sydneylockdownfalsefull    Covering Over The Sins Of COVID Corruptionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/covering-over-the-sins-of-covid-corruption--46262941
    And “live with the virus” is a mantra also picked up by the mainstream media, keen to let everyone know that now is the time to open up, because the vaccine is here to protect everyone. But is vaccination the only pathway out of this pandemic?

    What is ignored by the media is 94% of the 14,000 active coronavirus cases across Australia are in New South Wales – Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania did not record a single case today. Why should they open up their communities and let the virus spread, just because of the serious mistakes of one state government, and be part of a process that is more about securing the next election for the Liberal Party than anything else?

    And on a day of a record 1029 COVID cases in NSW, three deaths, entire families with infections in south-west Sydney, the first question asked of the NSW Premier by the media was: “do we need to wear a mask in outdoor environments” when the family picnics become available on September 13, a public relations exercise thrown at the families of south-west Sydney for achieving 6 million vaccinations, a number which has no epidemiological relevance or medical sense.

    A NSW Government more intent on spin and deception, in conjunction with the mainstream media, continuing the dissonance between this right-wing cabal, and the public. It’s not going to end well.

    And it’s also a part of the federal government’s narrative to return to the ways of the past, the economy of the past, and the society of the past. But history has shown that the countries that embrace innovation and forward-thinking during a time of crisis are the ones that succeed. Looking to the future at this stage can’t be coupled with an obsession to a world that we might never be able to return to: new thinking is required, but we are stuck with government that hasn’t got the creativity to imagine what Australia could be, once the pandemic is over – if it ever gets to that.

    The health outcomes for Indigenous Australian are the poorest in the country, and it’s a shocking shame that this is still the case. And they were promised that they would be the first to be vaccinated, because of their vulnerabilities. The small remote town of Wilcannia has a disaster unfolding there because of a break of promise by the federal government, and the negligence of the NSW Government to allow the Delta outbreak to spread to vulnerable communities. And all they’re receiving is blame from the government, even though the community of Wilcannia has been warning them about this possibility for 18 months. Once again, people on the margins have been forgotten by government.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46262941Fri, 27 Aug 2021 23:00:13 +0000New PoliticsThe Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, now wants Australia to “live with the virus” and “get out of the cave”. But why the big rush? Essentially, it’s to cover over the mistakes of the NSW Government during this wave of the Delta outbreak, and remove...
    And “live with the virus” is a mantra also picked up by the mainstream media, keen to let everyone know that now is the time to open up, because the vaccine is here to protect everyone. But is vaccination the only pathway out of this pandemic?

    What is ignored by the media is 94% of the 14,000 active coronavirus cases across Australia are in New South Wales – Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and Tasmania did not record a single case today. Why should they open up their communities and let the virus spread, just because of the serious mistakes of one state government, and be part of a process that is more about securing the next election for the Liberal Party than anything else?

    And on a day of a record 1029 COVID cases in NSW, three deaths, entire families with infections in south-west Sydney, the first question asked of the NSW Premier by the media was: “do we need to wear a mask in outdoor environments” when the family picnics become available on September 13, a public relations exercise thrown at the families of south-west Sydney for achieving 6 million vaccinations, a number which has no epidemiological relevance or medical sense.

    A NSW Government more intent on spin and deception, in conjunction with the mainstream media, continuing the dissonance between this right-wing cabal, and the public. It’s not going to end well.

    And it’s also a part of the federal government’s narrative to return to the ways of the past, the economy of the past, and the society of the past. But history has shown that the countries that embrace innovation and forward-thinking during a time of crisis are the ones that succeed. Looking to the future at this stage can’t be coupled with an obsession to a world that we might never be able to return to: new thinking is required, but we are stuck with government that hasn’t got the creativity to imagine what Australia could be, once the pandemic is over – if it ever gets to that.

    The health outcomes for Indigenous Australian are the poorest in the country, and it’s a shocking shame that this is still the case. And they were promised that they would be the first to be vaccinated, because of their vulnerabilities. The small remote town of Wilcannia has a disaster unfolding there because of a break of promise by the federal government, and the negligence of the NSW Government to allow the Delta outbreak to spread to vulnerable communities. And all they’re receiving is blame from the government, even though the community of Wilcannia has been warning them about this possibility for 18 months. Once again, people on the margins have been forgotten by government.]]>    2818auspol,sydneylockdownfalsefull    Delta Takes Over Sydney And Leaving Friends Behind In Afghanistanhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/delta-takes-over-sydney-and-leaving-friends-behind-in-afghanistan--46171262
    Every historian for perhaps the past two hundred years would recommend that Afghanistan is a difficult country to invade, and best left alone: its terrain is difficult to navigate, and there are many hills for local armies to hide and launch attacks against unwanted imperialist forces. But successive empires have ignored history: the British Empire waged three wars during the 18th and 19th centuries and retreated in each war (they are slow learners); the Soviet Union between 1979-1989; and the United States during 2001-2021 (slow learners, but over a longer period). And each of these empires has left behind humiliating defeats.

    The Taliban has returned and will retaliate against the Afghan interpreters who assisted Australian forces in Afghanistan. Morally, the Australian Government has an obligation to support these Afghan interpreters, but this is a government without morals or ethics. Best to whip up a frenzy against these people, lest they seek asylum in our land of milk and honey (sans ethics), and even make the claim that these people – who risked their lives and the lives of their families to assist Australian forces – are now a national security threat to Australia.

    One war ends, but another war continues – Australia’s longest running war, the culture and history war. The Minister for Education, Alan Tudge, has decided that he won’t approve the new national curriculum because it’s “warped” and “neo-Marxist rubbish”. A well-read Minister for Education would understand that Marx said history repeats first as tragedy, the second time as farce, but it seems Tudge has repeated history as a calamity and disaster in his own mind.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46171262Fri, 20 Aug 2021 23:00:13 +0000New PoliticsThe Delta version of coronavirus has taken hold in Sydney and if the NSW Government doesn’t take action to reverse the tide, the daily case numbers are going to reach 2,000 and it’s an number that is unlikely to be palatable to the electorate. And if...
    Every historian for perhaps the past two hundred years would recommend that Afghanistan is a difficult country to invade, and best left alone: its terrain is difficult to navigate, and there are many hills for local armies to hide and launch attacks against unwanted imperialist forces. But successive empires have ignored history: the British Empire waged three wars during the 18th and 19th centuries and retreated in each war (they are slow learners); the Soviet Union between 1979-1989; and the United States during 2001-2021 (slow learners, but over a longer period). And each of these empires has left behind humiliating defeats.

    The Taliban has returned and will retaliate against the Afghan interpreters who assisted Australian forces in Afghanistan. Morally, the Australian Government has an obligation to support these Afghan interpreters, but this is a government without morals or ethics. Best to whip up a frenzy against these people, lest they seek asylum in our land of milk and honey (sans ethics), and even make the claim that these people – who risked their lives and the lives of their families to assist Australian forces – are now a national security threat to Australia.

    One war ends, but another war continues – Australia’s longest running war, the culture and history war. The Minister for Education, Alan Tudge, has decided that he won’t approve the new national curriculum because it’s “warped” and “neo-Marxist rubbish”. A well-read Minister for Education would understand that Marx said history repeats first as tragedy, the second time as farce, but it seems Tudge has repeated history as a calamity and disaster in his own mind.]]>    2387afghanistan,auspol,culturewars,sydneylockdownfalsefull    COVID Crisis In Sydney And The Continuing Climate Change Warshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/covid-crisis-in-sydney-and-the-continuing-climate-change-wars--46080579
    When governments act in a way that’s different to the prevailing orthodoxy, it’s best to look behind the scenes to see what’s really going on. The NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, was going to be rolled by her Liberal Party Cabinet if she implemented a hard lockdown – it’s a divided Cabinet comprising a relatively palatable right wing, and a hard-right wing religious faction that wants to flex it’s muscle and show the Premier who’s really got all the control.

    So, a factional backroom brawl manifests itself in public in the worst way possible: an out-of -control Delta outbreak with a record 390 cases daily, deaths and economic chaos. Politics played in a way that damages the public and the economy.

    The climate change wars continue and the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, repeated his three-word slogan – technology, not taxes – and thundered that he’s not prepared to sign a blank cheque for unknown targets in 2050. It’s in response to the latest climate change report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which is no longer a “wake-up call”: it’s too late for that, this is a red code for humanity.

    And the federal government’s response to the IPCC report? Gas, more gas, and even more gas. Gas is the solution to everything for this government – the pandemic? Gas. The economy? Gas. Climate change? Again, it’s gas. There have been climate change solutions on offer for well over 50 years; even US President Richard Nixon was considering radical climate change options in 1968. UK Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher also wanted to adopt climate change remediation in 1987. And the rejection of all of these solutions over the past 50 years makes for depressing reading.

    And the wrap of the week in federal politics. But at a time when a Delta strain is ruining the state of NSW, and a planet that’s warming so far so it might be uninhabitable by the end of this century, perhaps it’s not such a critical time to report on these matters…]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/46080579Fri, 13 Aug 2021 23:00:11 +0000New PoliticsThis is one of the worst public health and economic disasters ever in Sydney but what is even worse, is the entire crisis could have been avoided. Why would the NSW Government avoid implementing the plans that were so successful in every other state...
    When governments act in a way that’s different to the prevailing orthodoxy, it’s best to look behind the scenes to see what’s really going on. The NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, was going to be rolled by her Liberal Party Cabinet if she implemented a hard lockdown – it’s a divided Cabinet comprising a relatively palatable right wing, and a hard-right wing religious faction that wants to flex it’s muscle and show the Premier who’s really got all the control.

    So, a factional backroom brawl manifests itself in public in the worst way possible: an out-of -control Delta outbreak with a record 390 cases daily, deaths and economic chaos. Politics played in a way that damages the public and the economy.

    The climate change wars continue and the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, repeated his three-word slogan – technology, not taxes – and thundered that he’s not prepared to sign a blank cheque for unknown targets in 2050. It’s in response to the latest climate change report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, which is no longer a “wake-up call”: it’s too late for that, this is a red code for humanity.

    And the federal government’s response to the IPCC report? Gas, more gas, and even more gas. Gas is the solution to everything for this government – the pandemic? Gas. The economy? Gas. Climate change? Again, it’s gas. There have been climate change solutions on offer for well over 50 years; even US President Richard Nixon was considering radical climate change options in 1968. UK Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher also wanted to adopt climate change remediation in 1987. And the rejection of all of these solutions over the past 50 years makes for depressing reading.

    And the wrap of the week in federal politics. But at a time when a Delta strain is ruining the state of NSW, and a planet that’s warming so far so it might be uninhabitable by the end of this century, perhaps it’s not such a critical time to report on these matters…]]>    2513auspol,nswpol,sydneylockdownfalsefull    That Sinking Feeling of Falling Polls and a Drunk in Parliamenthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/that-sinking-feeling-of-falling-polls-and-a-drunk-in-parliament--45993378
    Both Scott Morrison and Gladys Berejiklian have lost the trust of the electorate and the rhetoric behind the gold standard management of the pandemic has turned to ersatz, and a far more inferior standard. They are now tied together and they will either rise or fall in unison: and it seems it’s going to be a fall, rather than a rise. And the vaccine rollout has really become like the Hunger Games, all controlled by an incompetent federal government.

    Is offering incentives to encourage vaccinations ethical? Economists believe if it results in good public health outcomes, then it will result in good economic outcomes. So, Anthony Albanese’s proposal to offer $300 for each vaccination completed by December 31 receives the thumbs up from economists and the electorate, but not from Morrison, who must be fuming that he didn’t think of this idea first. And is this is all sounding like a medical games show? Yes it is, and if the price is right, people will “come on down”.

    And a return of federal Parliament has seen a return of Barnaby Joyce’s alcohol issues. But he’s not a Les-Paterson-type of maverick backbencher MP – he’s actually the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia. Drinking in Parliament? Perhaps it’s time to remove alcohol from Parliament House because there are too many MPs with drinking problems.

    Christian Porter is acting Leader of the House of Parliament and for Morrison to install a man who has serious sexual assault allegations hovering over him, its a slap in the face for women of Australia, according to Australian of The Year, Grace Tame. And it’s hard not to disagree.
    Closing the Gap is only reaching three of the 16 progress targets, and it’s still a massive stain on the psyche of the Australian society. But, it’s all OK: Morrison wore an Indigenous tie for the entire day, and said “more needs to be done”.

    And Brian Houston has been charged for failing to report allegations of sexual abuse. This is Morrison’s mentor and close friend and, as someone who surrounds himself with good news, it will be interesting to see if Morrison decides to cut him lose once Houston becomes an inconvenience for him.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45993378Fri, 06 Aug 2021 23:00:03 +0000New PoliticsThe federal government and its best friend – the NSW Government – are sinking in the polls because of one key issue: the mismanagement of the pandemic. Qualitative and quantitative research is showing a rapid decline in the support of both of these...
    Both Scott Morrison and Gladys Berejiklian have lost the trust of the electorate and the rhetoric behind the gold standard management of the pandemic has turned to ersatz, and a far more inferior standard. They are now tied together and they will either rise or fall in unison: and it seems it’s going to be a fall, rather than a rise. And the vaccine rollout has really become like the Hunger Games, all controlled by an incompetent federal government.

    Is offering incentives to encourage vaccinations ethical? Economists believe if it results in good public health outcomes, then it will result in good economic outcomes. So, Anthony Albanese’s proposal to offer $300 for each vaccination completed by December 31 receives the thumbs up from economists and the electorate, but not from Morrison, who must be fuming that he didn’t think of this idea first. And is this is all sounding like a medical games show? Yes it is, and if the price is right, people will “come on down”.

    And a return of federal Parliament has seen a return of Barnaby Joyce’s alcohol issues. But he’s not a Les-Paterson-type of maverick backbencher MP – he’s actually the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia. Drinking in Parliament? Perhaps it’s time to remove alcohol from Parliament House because there are too many MPs with drinking problems.

    Christian Porter is acting Leader of the House of Parliament and for Morrison to install a man who has serious sexual assault allegations hovering over him, its a slap in the face for women of Australia, according to Australian of The Year, Grace Tame. And it’s hard not to disagree.
    Closing the Gap is only reaching three of the 16 progress targets, and it’s still a massive stain on the psyche of the Australian society. But, it’s all OK: Morrison wore an Indigenous tie for the entire day, and said “more needs to be done”.

    And Brian Houston has been charged for failing to report allegations of sexual abuse. This is Morrison’s mentor and close friend and, as someone who surrounds himself with good news, it will be interesting to see if Morrison decides to cut him lose once Houston becomes an inconvenience for him.]]>    2489auspol,nswpol,sydneylockdownfalsefull    Vested Interests in NSW and Leaders Who Want To Be Lovedhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/vested-interests-in-nsw-and-leaders-who-want-to-be-loved--45904564
    Gladys Berejiklian says “but there is no guidebook for a pandemic”. Actually, there is, and we provide a five-point plan, which would be obvious to anyone looking at what’s been happening all around the world, including Australia. But, evidently, it’s not obvious to the NSW Government, or to the Prime Minister.

    Western Sydney has been sacrificed and next on the block are Year 12 students, who are returning to schools in two weeks’ time: this is a precarious situation, but the private school lobby has decided expensive tuition must be delivered, and the high HSC results they’re expecting from exams much be fulfilled. And Berejiklian has agreed, because that’s how power in NSW works.

    The political theorist, Niccolò Machiavelli asked the question: “is it better for a leader to be loved or loathed”, before deciding leaders seeking the love and attention of the electorate are destined for failure. Scott Morrison is seeking tonsorial splendour and is far more focused on his appearances – and trying to make himself loved by the populace – rather than the needs of the electorate but he really needs to decide if he wants to be Prime Minister of Australia, or the next contestant on The Bachelor: he can’t be both.

    Prime ministers do need to worry about how they appear in public, but spending time during a pandemic to keep up their appearances? Morrison is fixated on the winning the next election and he’s going about it the wrong way about it. And qualitative research agrees.

    McKinsey & Company is a consulting firm with close ties to the Liberal Party and it has received a $2 million contract for [redacted] – no one knows what it is for and the government is not releasing any information about it. So we can only assume that it’s public money used for the benefit of Liberal Party. $108 million has been paid to McKinsey since 2018 – $36 million per year – and that’s a great business model, for McKinsey. But not for the public.

    And the Labor leader Anthony Albanese is offering support for the Stage 3 round of tax cuts, to be introduced in 2024. It mainly favours higher-income earners, costs the budget $18 billion each year, widens inequity within the community, is lousy policy, doesn’t even need Labor support to be implemented but yet… the Labor Party is supporting it anyway.

    Why? Because politicians should never stand between a bucket of money and the electorate, irrespective of how much it costs, or how inequitable the policy is. And Labor wants to win the next federal election, and one cannot be shot if they don’t have a target on their back. A win for politics, but a disaster for low-income earners, supposedly the supporter base of the Labor Party.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45904564Fri, 30 Jul 2021 23:00:14 +0000New PoliticsThere are too many vested interests in Sydney and it makes it difficult for the NSW Government to act in the public interest and, because of this, the city is now in a nine-week lockdown, with no end in sight. Gladys Berejiklian says “but there is...
    Gladys Berejiklian says “but there is no guidebook for a pandemic”. Actually, there is, and we provide a five-point plan, which would be obvious to anyone looking at what’s been happening all around the world, including Australia. But, evidently, it’s not obvious to the NSW Government, or to the Prime Minister.

    Western Sydney has been sacrificed and next on the block are Year 12 students, who are returning to schools in two weeks’ time: this is a precarious situation, but the private school lobby has decided expensive tuition must be delivered, and the high HSC results they’re expecting from exams much be fulfilled. And Berejiklian has agreed, because that’s how power in NSW works.

    The political theorist, Niccolò Machiavelli asked the question: “is it better for a leader to be loved or loathed”, before deciding leaders seeking the love and attention of the electorate are destined for failure. Scott Morrison is seeking tonsorial splendour and is far more focused on his appearances – and trying to make himself loved by the populace – rather than the needs of the electorate but he really needs to decide if he wants to be Prime Minister of Australia, or the next contestant on The Bachelor: he can’t be both.

    Prime ministers do need to worry about how they appear in public, but spending time during a pandemic to keep up their appearances? Morrison is fixated on the winning the next election and he’s going about it the wrong way about it. And qualitative research agrees.

    McKinsey & Company is a consulting firm with close ties to the Liberal Party and it has received a $2 million contract for [redacted] – no one knows what it is for and the government is not releasing any information about it. So we can only assume that it’s public money used for the benefit of Liberal Party. $108 million has been paid to McKinsey since 2018 – $36 million per year – and that’s a great business model, for McKinsey. But not for the public.

    And the Labor leader Anthony Albanese is offering support for the Stage 3 round of tax cuts, to be introduced in 2024. It mainly favours higher-income earners, costs the budget $18 billion each year, widens inequity within the community, is lousy policy, doesn’t even need Labor support to be implemented but yet… the Labor Party is supporting it anyway.

    Why? Because politicians should never stand between a bucket of money and the electorate, irrespective of how much it costs, or how inequitable the policy is. And Labor wants to win the next federal election, and one cannot be shot if they don’t have a target on their back. A win for politics, but a disaster for low-income earners, supposedly the supporter base of the Labor Party.]]>    2433auspol,nswpol,sydneylockdownfalsefull    The Sydney COVID Disaster And Olympic Dramashttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-sydney-covid-disaster-and-olympic-dramas--45814544
    As for the Prime Minister, the mismanagement of the vaccination rollout is quickly becoming a political headache: corruption and mismanagement in other programs – sportsrorts or unwanted carparks in marginal seats, for example – don’t affect everyone, and governments can easily gloss over these problems. But COVID-19 affects every single person in Australia. Which means that it affects every person who votes at election time, and it’s not looking for Scott Morrison, or for the Liberal Party.

    Should Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk have made the trip to Tokyo to receive the news of Brisbane becoming an Olympic city in 2032? Perhaps she should have stayed home, but if the media is going to attack her, where were the voices when Scott Morrison went overseas? Or Mathias Cormann? Or Adrian Shrinner? Or Sussan Ley? Never mind, they’re from the Liberal Party, so that’s all alright.

    Eddie Obeid, Moses Obeid and Ian McDonald have been found guilty of corruption and they are likely to end up in jail. And that’s good riddance to bad rubbish but 13 years after the corruption was committed in 2008? That’s too long for the wheels of justice to turn, but better late than never.

    And there are calls for the JobKeeper program to be reinstated but it needs to be reformed. $7 million went to the Perth private school, Hale School – after they made an $8 million surplus, and while universities across Australia received $0 – and $17 billion was paid to businesses that didn’t need JobKeeper support and didn’t qualify, including $21 million to Harvey Norman. But, all is well: the Treasurer, Josh Frydenberg says – nudge nudge, wink wink – no need to pay it back. That energy will be spent chasing up overpayments to Centrelink recipients, where the real rorting is happening. Apparently.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45814544Fri, 23 Jul 2021 23:00:18 +0000New PoliticsPolitical games are never far away when it comes to COVID-19 management in Australia and, of course, it’s across the political divide: the Liberal Party of NSW and the federal government on one side, and Labor Premiers on the other. If only the NSW...
    As for the Prime Minister, the mismanagement of the vaccination rollout is quickly becoming a political headache: corruption and mismanagement in other programs – sportsrorts or unwanted carparks in marginal seats, for example – don’t affect everyone, and governments can easily gloss over these problems. But COVID-19 affects every single person in Australia. Which means that it affects every person who votes at election time, and it’s not looking for Scott Morrison, or for the Liberal Party.

    Should Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk have made the trip to Tokyo to receive the news of Brisbane becoming an Olympic city in 2032? Perhaps she should have stayed home, but if the media is going to attack her, where were the voices when Scott Morrison went overseas? Or Mathias Cormann? Or Adrian Shrinner? Or Sussan Ley? Never mind, they’re from the Liberal Party, so that’s all alright.

    Eddie Obeid, Moses Obeid and Ian McDonald have been found guilty of corruption and they are likely to end up in jail. And that’s good riddance to bad rubbish but 13 years after the corruption was committed in 2008? That’s too long for the wheels of justice to turn, but better late than never.

    And there are calls for the JobKeeper program to be reinstated but it needs to be reformed. $7 million went to the Perth private school, Hale School – after they made an $8 million surplus, and while universities across Australia received $0 – and $17 billion was paid to businesses that didn’t need JobKeeper support and didn’t qualify, including $21 million to Harvey Norman. But, all is well: the Treasurer, Josh Frydenberg says – nudge nudge, wink wink – no need to pay it back. That energy will be spent chasing up overpayments to Centrelink recipients, where the real rorting is happening. Apparently.]]>    2511auspodcasts,auspol,nswpol,sydneylockdownfalsefull    Ignoring COVID Lessons From The Past And Who Is The Real Prime Minister?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/ignoring-covid-lessons-from-the-past-and-who-is-the-real-prime-minister--45724163
    And could the real Prime Minister please stand up? Business leaders, frustrated with the slow progress on the supply of vaccines, asked Kevin Rudd – out of office for eight years – to lobby Pfizer to fast-track the delivery of one million vaccines. Whether or not Rudd was responsible for this delivery is immaterial: the fact business leaders saw Rudd as someone who could get this done, rather than Scott Morrison, speaks volumes. But it does beg the question: aside from blaming everyone for his mistakes and faults, what exactly does Morrison do with this time?

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tony Smith, is retiring from politics. What does this mean? After 20 years in Parliament, he’s had enough? Does he believe he won't be able to retain his seat of Casey? Or that he believes the Liberal Party won't win the next federal election? Perhaps he reprimanded Morrison too many times during Parliament Question Time. And that might have been his biggest mistake.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45724163Fri, 16 Jul 2021 23:00:08 +0000New PoliticsAustralia has become lockdown central, with its two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne, going into two different types of lockdowns – Sydney has a modified version where shops are still open and people seem to be able to freely move about (except...
    And could the real Prime Minister please stand up? Business leaders, frustrated with the slow progress on the supply of vaccines, asked Kevin Rudd – out of office for eight years – to lobby Pfizer to fast-track the delivery of one million vaccines. Whether or not Rudd was responsible for this delivery is immaterial: the fact business leaders saw Rudd as someone who could get this done, rather than Scott Morrison, speaks volumes. But it does beg the question: aside from blaming everyone for his mistakes and faults, what exactly does Morrison do with this time?

    The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tony Smith, is retiring from politics. What does this mean? After 20 years in Parliament, he’s had enough? Does he believe he won't be able to retain his seat of Casey? Or that he believes the Liberal Party won't win the next federal election? Perhaps he reprimanded Morrison too many times during Parliament Question Time. And that might have been his biggest mistake.]]>    2481auspol,insiders,nswpol,sydneylockdownfalsefull    Spinning In The Face Of A Crisis And The Modern Liberal Partyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/spinning-in-the-face-of-a-crisis-and-the-modern-liberal-party--45639316
    The facade of “The Woman Who Saved Australia” so prominently promoted in the media just a few weeks ago has receded into the distance, and slowly being replaced with an understanding that Berejiklian is now the woman who let her ideology stand in the way of the public interest.

    And she was all on her own, as the Prime Minister for Sydney – who is also in the position of Prime Minister of Australia but that seems to be a lesser role – disappeared for five days. Strangely for a Prime Minister who loves to make announcements, there was no announcement of his whereabouts, but he did return with what appeared to be a new tonsure and extra hair implants.

    And what of the Liberal Party? Scott Morrison seems to be the end point of a lineage that commenced in the early 1990s, when the Liberal Party purged all of its moderates and turned itself into a fully-fledged conservative party, based on all the worst attributes of the US Republicans and the British Conservatives. And it's not a very good look, as can be attested by the former Liberal Party member for Chisholm, Julia Banks, who provides an excellent description of Scott Morrison: a menacing and controlling wallpaper.

    The Liberal Party needs to be reformed from the rank conservative party it has become, into a political party Menzies and Fraser could be proud of, but that may have to wait until it finds itself in opposition again. And after the mismanagement of vaccination, quarantine and now the Sydney lockdown that didn’t need to happen, that stint in opposition might not be too far away.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45639316Fri, 09 Jul 2021 23:00:10 +0000New PoliticsThe Sydney lockdown continues into its third week and the Gladys Berejiklian show moves into the full public relations mode and spin cycle to get itself out of political trouble. It’s almost as though if the NSW Government put as much effort into...
    The facade of “The Woman Who Saved Australia” so prominently promoted in the media just a few weeks ago has receded into the distance, and slowly being replaced with an understanding that Berejiklian is now the woman who let her ideology stand in the way of the public interest.

    And she was all on her own, as the Prime Minister for Sydney – who is also in the position of Prime Minister of Australia but that seems to be a lesser role – disappeared for five days. Strangely for a Prime Minister who loves to make announcements, there was no announcement of his whereabouts, but he did return with what appeared to be a new tonsure and extra hair implants.

    And what of the Liberal Party? Scott Morrison seems to be the end point of a lineage that commenced in the early 1990s, when the Liberal Party purged all of its moderates and turned itself into a fully-fledged conservative party, based on all the worst attributes of the US Republicans and the British Conservatives. And it's not a very good look, as can be attested by the former Liberal Party member for Chisholm, Julia Banks, who provides an excellent description of Scott Morrison: a menacing and controlling wallpaper.

    The Liberal Party needs to be reformed from the rank conservative party it has become, into a political party Menzies and Fraser could be proud of, but that may have to wait until it finds itself in opposition again. And after the mismanagement of vaccination, quarantine and now the Sydney lockdown that didn’t need to happen, that stint in opposition might not be too far away.]]>    2658auspol,auspolsocorrupt,insidersfalsefull    The Lockdown Schadenfreude in NSW And A Two Jobs Failure: Vaccination and Quarantinehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-lockdown-schadenfreude-in-nsw-and-a-two-jobs-failure-vaccination-and-quarantine--45550042
    Aside from the extra billions of dollars it will cost the NSW economy, it took a full 24 hours before Berejiklian could even mention the word that shall not be mentioned: LOCKDOWN – a dastardly word that fellow Liberals were ridiculing just the day before the lockdown was announced, and suggesting it was something only those lunatic states run by the Labor Party would think about doing.

    But we are all lockdowners now. And it’s a reflection of the national ‘debts and deficits’ argument: Liberal Party lockdowns, good; Labor Party lockdowns, bad. It’s beyond belief that conservative politics in Australia can be so infantile.

    We can debate the merits of lockdowns, but the recent spate in Sydney, Perth and Brisbane could have been avoided with a more competent federal government in office. The federal government just had two jobs for 2021: rollout the vaccination program across Australia effectively, and repair the hotel quarantine system. And a failure of leadership by the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, has assured that both of these critical issues have been poorly managed or non-existent.

    The disasters of the vaccination rollout and quarantine management cannot be underestimated: this was meant to be Australia’s pathway out of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as providing a pathway towards a victory for the Liberal Party at the next federal election. But it’s all gone to seed.

    Morrison has released a four-phase ‘plan’, but it seems like it's just another set of announcements: there are no targets, there are no definitions, there’s no guide for Australia to move through these four phases. But one aspect is becoming clear: Morrison might not be the Prime Minister to lead Australia through these stages. He’s had a go to have a go; and now, it might be time for him to go as well. It’s really had become that bad.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45550042Fri, 02 Jul 2021 23:00:11 +0000New PoliticsThe NSW Government’s ‘gold standard’ in COVID management has soured into a more tarnished puce colour, with Premier Gladys Berejiklian’s reluctance to shut down Sydney a week earlier, resulting in a more protracted lockdown than would otherwise have...
    Aside from the extra billions of dollars it will cost the NSW economy, it took a full 24 hours before Berejiklian could even mention the word that shall not be mentioned: LOCKDOWN – a dastardly word that fellow Liberals were ridiculing just the day before the lockdown was announced, and suggesting it was something only those lunatic states run by the Labor Party would think about doing.

    But we are all lockdowners now. And it’s a reflection of the national ‘debts and deficits’ argument: Liberal Party lockdowns, good; Labor Party lockdowns, bad. It’s beyond belief that conservative politics in Australia can be so infantile.

    We can debate the merits of lockdowns, but the recent spate in Sydney, Perth and Brisbane could have been avoided with a more competent federal government in office. The federal government just had two jobs for 2021: rollout the vaccination program across Australia effectively, and repair the hotel quarantine system. And a failure of leadership by the Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, has assured that both of these critical issues have been poorly managed or non-existent.

    The disasters of the vaccination rollout and quarantine management cannot be underestimated: this was meant to be Australia’s pathway out of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as providing a pathway towards a victory for the Liberal Party at the next federal election. But it’s all gone to seed.

    Morrison has released a four-phase ‘plan’, but it seems like it's just another set of announcements: there are no targets, there are no definitions, there’s no guide for Australia to move through these four phases. But one aspect is becoming clear: Morrison might not be the Prime Minister to lead Australia through these stages. He’s had a go to have a go; and now, it might be time for him to go as well. It’s really had become that bad.]]>    2710auspol,insiders,sydneylockdownfalsefull    Pfizer Phuck-Up, Failure Of The G7 Meeting, Locking Up Journalistshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pfizer-phuck-up-failure-of-the-g7-meeting-locking-up-journalists--45407555
    The mainstream media wanted to position Scott Morrison as a key member of the G7 meeting, but he was anything but: Australia is not a member of the G7, it only had observer status at this meeting and it seems the US President, Joe Biden, was keen to let Morrison know about this. It was a ‘much ado about nothing’ kind of meeting for Morrison, he signed a few long-term agreements which are not worth the pen and paper they were created with, and a free trade agreement with the UK – which will negotiated over the next 15 years. And a sideshow to explore his personal ancestry, a visit to a church, and drinks all round for his personal staff at a few drinking holes in Cornwall. Something had to be retrieved from the G7 meeting and this provided for excellent photo opportunities.

    The legal dispute between NSW National Leader, John Barilaro, and Jordan Shanks-Markovina (aka Friendly Jordies) has been ramped up and Barilaro has used anti-terrorism legislation to arrest the Friendly Jordies producer, Kristo Langker, all because he made a little bit of fun about him and exposed him for corruption. It’s so ‘New South Wales’ for a politician to want to lock up a journalist who gets in the way – but this is not just a battle between a politician and a journalist, it's a battle between legacy media and new media.

    Australia has a new Deputy Prime Minister, same as the old one: come on down, Barnaby Joyce, alleged sexual harasser of women, philanderer, drunk, morally bankrupt and possibly corrupt. Only in Australia (and Britain, US, Brazil, Hungary, Belarus) would the public accept this kind of politician as a leader. A retail politician who tells the electorate what they want to hear, not what needs to be done – the worst and most dangerous kind of politician.

    And it’s also so ‘New South Wales’ for the corruption of a Premier to be overlooked with soft media pampering and delicately placed stories about her new love life – who just happens to be the lawyer who represented her at the ICAC. COVID-19 cases are rising in Sydney and the NSW Government, far from the ‘gold standard’ we keep hearing about, has allowed complacency to set it and has mismanaged key aspects of this pandemic. Will it be as bad as the Ruby Princess disaster in 2020? But let’s not worry about that, all should be fine, because ‘Gladys is in love’.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45407555Wed, 23 Jun 2021 06:15:06 +0000New PoliticsAustralia could have been close to reaching herd immunity but a poor Australian government decision to turn its back on an excellent Pfizer deal means the national level of vaccination is at 3%, one of the lowest rates in the world. The anger in the...
    The mainstream media wanted to position Scott Morrison as a key member of the G7 meeting, but he was anything but: Australia is not a member of the G7, it only had observer status at this meeting and it seems the US President, Joe Biden, was keen to let Morrison know about this. It was a ‘much ado about nothing’ kind of meeting for Morrison, he signed a few long-term agreements which are not worth the pen and paper they were created with, and a free trade agreement with the UK – which will negotiated over the next 15 years. And a sideshow to explore his personal ancestry, a visit to a church, and drinks all round for his personal staff at a few drinking holes in Cornwall. Something had to be retrieved from the G7 meeting and this provided for excellent photo opportunities.

    The legal dispute between NSW National Leader, John Barilaro, and Jordan Shanks-Markovina (aka Friendly Jordies) has been ramped up and Barilaro has used anti-terrorism legislation to arrest the Friendly Jordies producer, Kristo Langker, all because he made a little bit of fun about him and exposed him for corruption. It’s so ‘New South Wales’ for a politician to want to lock up a journalist who gets in the way – but this is not just a battle between a politician and a journalist, it's a battle between legacy media and new media.

    Australia has a new Deputy Prime Minister, same as the old one: come on down, Barnaby Joyce, alleged sexual harasser of women, philanderer, drunk, morally bankrupt and possibly corrupt. Only in Australia (and Britain, US, Brazil, Hungary, Belarus) would the public accept this kind of politician as a leader. A retail politician who tells the electorate what they want to hear, not what needs to be done – the worst and most dangerous kind of politician.

    And it’s also so ‘New South Wales’ for the corruption of a Premier to be overlooked with soft media pampering and delicately placed stories about her new love life – who just happens to be the lawyer who represented her at the ICAC. COVID-19 cases are rising in Sydney and the NSW Government, far from the ‘gold standard’ we keep hearing about, has allowed complacency to set it and has mismanaged key aspects of this pandemic. Will it be as bad as the Ruby Princess disaster in 2020? But let’s not worry about that, all should be fine, because ‘Gladys is in love’.]]>    2678auspol,australianpodcasts,insiders,qtfalsefull    Quarantine Fiasco Continues, Media Clampdown, The Beast Of The NSW Labor Righthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/quarantine-fiasco-continues-media-clampdown-the-beast-of-the-nsw-labor-right--45225845
    Conservative governments are usually the advocates of free speech but in shades of the infamous East German Stasi secret service, the Liberal National government now wants to monitor the social media accounts of ABC journalists, publicly humiliate them, and sack them. The only parts that are missing are the megaphones shouting out “you know what you've done wrong” and the re-enactment of Kafka’s ‘The Trial’ will be complete. Of course, it's free speech for all, except for you, you, you and you, and anyone else the government disagrees with.

    The NSW Labor Right faction is an unusual beast in Australian politics, and in most cases is more concerned about its own influence, rather than the critical task of winning elections. They were the instigators of the resignation of NSW Labor leader, Jodi McKay, and now they have their man in the leadership, Chris Minns. And no-one should kid themselves that the Liberal Party is the only party that treats its women poorly: Labor has close to 50–50 gender equality within its ranks, but that doesn't stop it from undermining the women already in leadership positions, or making sure they don't get there in the first place.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/45225845Wed, 09 Jun 2021 06:35:02 +0000New PoliticsVictoria will complete a two-week lockdown soon but if the Morrison government had done its job properly on quarantine management and the vaccination rollout, the lockdown – which will cost around $2 billion in lost revenues and other expenses – may...
    Conservative governments are usually the advocates of free speech but in shades of the infamous East German Stasi secret service, the Liberal National government now wants to monitor the social media accounts of ABC journalists, publicly humiliate them, and sack them. The only parts that are missing are the megaphones shouting out “you know what you've done wrong” and the re-enactment of Kafka’s ‘The Trial’ will be complete. Of course, it's free speech for all, except for you, you, you and you, and anyone else the government disagrees with.

    The NSW Labor Right faction is an unusual beast in Australian politics, and in most cases is more concerned about its own influence, rather than the critical task of winning elections. They were the instigators of the resignation of NSW Labor leader, Jodi McKay, and now they have their man in the leadership, Chris Minns. And no-one should kid themselves that the Liberal Party is the only party that treats its women poorly: Labor has close to 50–50 gender equality within its ranks, but that doesn't stop it from undermining the women already in leadership positions, or making sure they don't get there in the first place.]]>    3223auspol,auspolsocorrupt,insiders,newpoliticsfalsefull    The Budget Mirage And The Debts And Deficits Rusehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-budget-mirage-and-the-debts-and-deficits-ruse--44902017
    What would Labor do? We don't know: it's not the role of the Opposition of the day to provide itemised line items and specific policies the government and the media can then dissect and misrepresent – Albanese won't make the same mistakes Shorten made with the franking credits policy, where he allowed the Liberal Party too must scope to completely distort the intention of the scheme. Just the broad brush strokes of policy is all that's needed at the moment.

    Will the Budget swing the next election for the Liberal–National Coalition? Both the Budget and the Budget Reply will be forgotten at the time of the next election, and the verdict will still come down to competence and who the electorate will trust on debts and deficits.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44902017Wed, 19 May 2021 02:45:10 +0000New PoliticsIt’s Budget time and we've spent the last week analysing the third Budget announcement from Treasurer Josh Frydenberg. Our verdict? Don’t believe the hype: it's not a ‘big-spending’ Budget; and it’s not a Budget the Labor Party would have introduced....
    What would Labor do? We don't know: it's not the role of the Opposition of the day to provide itemised line items and specific policies the government and the media can then dissect and misrepresent – Albanese won't make the same mistakes Shorten made with the franking credits policy, where he allowed the Liberal Party too must scope to completely distort the intention of the scheme. Just the broad brush strokes of policy is all that's needed at the moment.

    Will the Budget swing the next election for the Liberal–National Coalition? Both the Budget and the Budget Reply will be forgotten at the time of the next election, and the verdict will still come down to competence and who the electorate will trust on debts and deficits.]]>    2500auspol,auspolsocorrupt,australianpodcasts,insidersfalsefull    Climate Change Action, Do We Need Religion In Politics, Vaccination Envyhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/climate-change-action-do-we-need-religion-in-politics-vaccination-envy--44510042
    A milkshake video was released through a government-managed website – The Good Society – and if a casual viewer wasn't told about what the video was about, they'd be scratching their head trying to work out how smearing a milkshake in a man’s face relates to sexual consent and the serious issues of sexual harassment, rape and assault. But the content of these videos provides an insight into the mentality of the government that commissioned the videos in the first place: a government that wishes to impose its narrow-minded conservatism upon the community and searching for a teenage community that doesn't seem to exist anywhere in Australia. And its a conservatism based on the Pentecostal beliefs of the Prime Minister.

    Prime Ministers have the complete right to believe – or not believe – in any religion they choose, as long as it's a private matter. There is a church-state separation in modern democracies – for very good reasons – but Morrison wants the church to creep over in the political sphere. And it shouldn't be there.

    And the vaccination rollout keeps creating political problems for the federal government and they keep looking to apportion blame to everyone – except for themselves. Why did they take on the program in the first place? They provided massive amounts of stimulus funding to the state and territory governments and the states and territories ending up getting all the political credit, much to the chagrin of Morrison and Josh Frydenberg. They weren't going to allow that to happen again. So, they took on the implementation of the vaccination program, something the federal government has never done before, hoping to get all the political benefit, and a clear pathway to victory at the next federal election. And the pear-shaped result is exactly the result the federal government deserves.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44510042Tue, 27 Apr 2021 22:00:22 +0000New PoliticsThe world is slowly moving towards climate change solutions and, once again, Australia is the laggard on the world stage but trying to tell everyone how well it's performing, even though no other world leader believes it. And this is the modus...
    A milkshake video was released through a government-managed website – The Good Society – and if a casual viewer wasn't told about what the video was about, they'd be scratching their head trying to work out how smearing a milkshake in a man’s face relates to sexual consent and the serious issues of sexual harassment, rape and assault. But the content of these videos provides an insight into the mentality of the government that commissioned the videos in the first place: a government that wishes to impose its narrow-minded conservatism upon the community and searching for a teenage community that doesn't seem to exist anywhere in Australia. And its a conservatism based on the Pentecostal beliefs of the Prime Minister.

    Prime Ministers have the complete right to believe – or not believe – in any religion they choose, as long as it's a private matter. There is a church-state separation in modern democracies – for very good reasons – but Morrison wants the church to creep over in the political sphere. And it shouldn't be there.

    And the vaccination rollout keeps creating political problems for the federal government and they keep looking to apportion blame to everyone – except for themselves. Why did they take on the program in the first place? They provided massive amounts of stimulus funding to the state and territory governments and the states and territories ending up getting all the political credit, much to the chagrin of Morrison and Josh Frydenberg. They weren't going to allow that to happen again. So, they took on the implementation of the vaccination program, something the federal government has never done before, hoping to get all the political benefit, and a clear pathway to victory at the next federal election. And the pear-shaped result is exactly the result the federal government deserves.]]>    3345auspol,auspolsocorrupt,australianpodcastsfalsefull    Vaccination Fiasco, Feminising The Liberal Party, Labor On Your Sidehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/vaccination-fiasco-feminising-the-liberal-party-labor-on-your-side--44281889
    Is the feminisation of the Liberal Party actually taking place, or is it another case of window-dressing? It might be just another charade: it's not just a case of adding "women" into the titles of ministries, or the Prime Minister being photographed with more of the women who make up 51% of the population. Or deciding to wait four months for an urgent women’s safety summit. And after waiting 13 months to release a national sexual harassment report, Morrison’s behaviour shows that it's all about politics.

    The Labor National Conference was a virtual event this year, which means no backroom deals or incidental meetings to stitch up deals. Everything occurred online and in chatrooms rather than the backrooms, but a relatively sedate event suggests Labor believes it’s still likely that a federal election will be held this year. Otherwise, the conference would have seen old-school open brawls, hostilities between the factions, all of which would have been lapped up by the media. Best to wait for a non-election year.

    And most chatter in the media has been "who will Scott Morrison’s opponent be at the next election". But this might need to be switched around a little bit to suggest "who will Anthony Albanese’s opponent be at the next election". That’s how poorly Morrison is performing.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/44281889Sat, 10 Apr 2021 08:00:16 +0000New PoliticsThe vaccination program is now officially in fiasco territory, with error after error and now another announcement of 20 million Pfizer doses "secured" after problems with the AstraZeneca vaccines. Which, of course, is not the same as actually having...
    Is the feminisation of the Liberal Party actually taking place, or is it another case of window-dressing? It might be just another charade: it's not just a case of adding "women" into the titles of ministries, or the Prime Minister being photographed with more of the women who make up 51% of the population. Or deciding to wait four months for an urgent women’s safety summit. And after waiting 13 months to release a national sexual harassment report, Morrison’s behaviour shows that it's all about politics.

    The Labor National Conference was a virtual event this year, which means no backroom deals or incidental meetings to stitch up deals. Everything occurred online and in chatrooms rather than the backrooms, but a relatively sedate event suggests Labor believes it’s still likely that a federal election will be held this year. Otherwise, the conference would have seen old-school open brawls, hostilities between the factions, all of which would have been lapped up by the media. Best to wait for a non-election year.

    And most chatter in the media has been "who will Scott Morrison’s opponent be at the next election". But this might need to be switched around a little bit to suggest "who will Anthony Albanese’s opponent be at the next election". That’s how poorly Morrison is performing.]]>    2538auspod,auspol,auspolsocorrupt,australianpolitics,insidersfalsefull    March 4 Justice, Vaccination Meltdown And A Thrashing In The Westhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/march-4-justice-vaccination-meltdown-and-a-thrashing-in-the-west--43963059
    Vaccinations are another area which the federal government has totally mismanaged, and yet another example of incompetence which Scott Morrison, Greg Hunt and Chief Medical Officer are trying to spin their way through. The government promised the vaccination program would be completed by 31 October 2021, and have been using a megaphone to let everyone know. But now that the vaccination program is not going be completed by 31 October 2021, the government is adamant that they never actually said that. Apparently, everyone else in Australia has a collective case of mishearing and misinterpreting what Scott Morrison said, because he is always correct, even when he is wrong.

    One landslide election victory is rare; a second consecutive landslide victory has never happened before in Australian politics. Until the Western Australian election victory – a 9% swing in 2017, and a 13% swing in 2021. And the Liberal Party has been left with two seats in a chamber of 59 seats. That really is a wipeout – the Liberal Party also lost the seat of Nedlands, home of Gina Rinehart and Kerry Stokes. When the Liberal Party loses a seat like Nedlands, it really means the party might be over.

    The message? Competent governments are being rewarded at the ballot box. It will be interesting to see what the result will be for an incompetent government, which the federal government clearly is. Their time will come soon.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43963059Fri, 19 Mar 2021 21:00:14 +0000New PoliticsThe many women of Australia have said “enough is enough”, and said it loudly through the March 4 Justice campaign. But the Prime Minister is hard of hearing and wants it all to be on his terms, refusing to meet the organisers of the rally in public,...
    Vaccinations are another area which the federal government has totally mismanaged, and yet another example of incompetence which Scott Morrison, Greg Hunt and Chief Medical Officer are trying to spin their way through. The government promised the vaccination program would be completed by 31 October 2021, and have been using a megaphone to let everyone know. But now that the vaccination program is not going be completed by 31 October 2021, the government is adamant that they never actually said that. Apparently, everyone else in Australia has a collective case of mishearing and misinterpreting what Scott Morrison said, because he is always correct, even when he is wrong.

    One landslide election victory is rare; a second consecutive landslide victory has never happened before in Australian politics. Until the Western Australian election victory – a 9% swing in 2017, and a 13% swing in 2021. And the Liberal Party has been left with two seats in a chamber of 59 seats. That really is a wipeout – the Liberal Party also lost the seat of Nedlands, home of Gina Rinehart and Kerry Stokes. When the Liberal Party loses a seat like Nedlands, it really means the party might be over.

    The message? Competent governments are being rewarded at the ballot box. It will be interesting to see what the result will be for an incompetent government, which the federal government clearly is. Their time will come soon.]]>    2786auspol,auspolsocorrupt,insiders,newpolitics,qtfalsefull    Untenable Porter, Aged Care Fiasco, Media Code Not In The Public Interesthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/untenable-porter-aged-care-fiasco-media-code-not-in-the-public-interest--43753172
    The Royal Commission for Aged Care Quality and Safety has released its report and it has outlined a 25-year disaster that started off when Prime Minister John Howard reformed the sector in 1997 to create business opportunities for Liberal Party donors and the involvement of the private and corporatised sector into social services. And it's a mixture that simply does not work. For-profit thinking shouldn't be anywhere near the provision of aged care services.

    The Media Bargaining Code is just one short step away from being law but, already, Google has signed deals with News Corporation, Nine Network, Seven West Media, The Guardian, and deals coming up soon for the ABC and SBS: $100 million from Google and another motza being delivered by FaceBook! And is this good for public interest journalism? Absolutely not, it's not even mentioned in the legislation. This is all about the government placing the media in its pocket in the lead-up to the next federal election. And a bucketload of money for legacy media, it's money for jam. It's actually a sad day for journalism and for the taxpayer.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43753172Fri, 05 Mar 2021 21:30:02 +0000New PoliticsChristian Porter’s political career is over. There won't be any legal proceedings arising from an allegation of rape in 1988 but the political repercussions will be far-reaching. And as long as the Prime Minister keeps resisting a call for a public...
    The Royal Commission for Aged Care Quality and Safety has released its report and it has outlined a 25-year disaster that started off when Prime Minister John Howard reformed the sector in 1997 to create business opportunities for Liberal Party donors and the involvement of the private and corporatised sector into social services. And it's a mixture that simply does not work. For-profit thinking shouldn't be anywhere near the provision of aged care services.

    The Media Bargaining Code is just one short step away from being law but, already, Google has signed deals with News Corporation, Nine Network, Seven West Media, The Guardian, and deals coming up soon for the ABC and SBS: $100 million from Google and another motza being delivered by FaceBook! And is this good for public interest journalism? Absolutely not, it's not even mentioned in the legislation. This is all about the government placing the media in its pocket in the lead-up to the next federal election. And a bucketload of money for legacy media, it's money for jam. It's actually a sad day for journalism and for the taxpayer.]]>    2692auspol,auspolsocorrupt,australianpolitics,insidersfalsefull    A Rape At Parliament House, The Eagle Hasn't Landed, $20 Billion Tax Lieshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-rape-at-parliament-house-the-eagle-hasn-t-landed-20-billion-tax-lies--43543725
    “The Eagle Had Landed”? The federal government has no shame when it comes to making announcements, and judging by the amount of announcements the government has made, Australia has one billion vaccines, or around 50 per person. But it's all a lie: the first batch arrived in Sydney a few days ago – 140,000, or 0.1 per cent of what the government has actually promised – and zero have been administered, compared to 190 million doses administered around the world. The vaccine rollout is going to be a political exercise – and a painfully partisan affair.

    The Labor Party has released policies which offer protection for workers in the gig economy, to guarantee superannuation payments, sick leave and holiday pay, and portable entitlements. Sounds very good for workers and a sensible reform. But that didn't stop Christian Porter from completely misrepresenting the policy as a $20 billion tax on business – which, conversely, means that keeping the existing arrangements is a $20 billion tax on workers, which no-one in the media decided to talk about. Can't stand in the way of a cheap and fast meal delivered to head office by a migrant riding dangerously through peak-hour traffic.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43543725Fri, 19 Feb 2021 21:00:16 +0000New PoliticsIt seems like there was a grand cover-up of a serious sexual assault of a female staffer in March 2019 at Parliament House, but who’s got time for that sort of wimmen’s business when there's an election to be won. If the allegations of rape had been...
    “The Eagle Had Landed”? The federal government has no shame when it comes to making announcements, and judging by the amount of announcements the government has made, Australia has one billion vaccines, or around 50 per person. But it's all a lie: the first batch arrived in Sydney a few days ago – 140,000, or 0.1 per cent of what the government has actually promised – and zero have been administered, compared to 190 million doses administered around the world. The vaccine rollout is going to be a political exercise – and a painfully partisan affair.

    The Labor Party has released policies which offer protection for workers in the gig economy, to guarantee superannuation payments, sick leave and holiday pay, and portable entitlements. Sounds very good for workers and a sensible reform. But that didn't stop Christian Porter from completely misrepresenting the policy as a $20 billion tax on business – which, conversely, means that keeping the existing arrangements is a $20 billion tax on workers, which no-one in the media decided to talk about. Can't stand in the way of a cheap and fast meal delivered to head office by a migrant riding dangerously through peak-hour traffic.]]>    2120auspol,australianpolitics,metoo,qtfalsefull    Not So Flash: Australia Day Hijacked, A New US President And An Early Electionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/not-so-flash-australia-day-hijacked-a-new-us-president-and-an-early-election--43266672
    There is a new US President and while there was a massive amount of grandstanding from Donald Trump about vote-rigging and gaslighting that the election was stolen, there was never any doubt that Joe Biden was going be inaugurated as President. There was an insurrection at Capitol Hill – even though the ABC initially refused to use the word, and the Australian media generally underreported the event. One of the biggest events in US history, but nothing to see here. Scott Morrison has lost a “friend” at the White House, although Harry Truman did once say, “if you want a friend in Washington, get a dog”. What will a Biden presidency mean for Australian politics? What will it mean for world politics?

    An early election is being pushed by the media, and the first available date for a half-Senate election is 7 August 2021. Will Morrison go early? Will he face Anthony Albanese? Or someone else? There has been speculation that Albanese might be replaced unless he seriously lifts his game: we believe if Labor can resolve this leadership issue – whether Albanese becomes a more substantial leader or a new leader is installed – the Liberal-National Coalition will be removed at the next election. It’s a government that waiting to be thrown out of office, and deservedly so.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/43266672Wed, 03 Feb 2021 21:00:12 +0000New PoliticsAustralia Day has been hijacked by the conservative side of politics. Which means that it's a day of vainglorious nationalism, jingoism, white imperialism and forgetting about the events of 1788, when an entire continent was stolen from Indigenous...
    There is a new US President and while there was a massive amount of grandstanding from Donald Trump about vote-rigging and gaslighting that the election was stolen, there was never any doubt that Joe Biden was going be inaugurated as President. There was an insurrection at Capitol Hill – even though the ABC initially refused to use the word, and the Australian media generally underreported the event. One of the biggest events in US history, but nothing to see here. Scott Morrison has lost a “friend” at the White House, although Harry Truman did once say, “if you want a friend in Washington, get a dog”. What will a Biden presidency mean for Australian politics? What will it mean for world politics?

    An early election is being pushed by the media, and the first available date for a half-Senate election is 7 August 2021. Will Morrison go early? Will he face Anthony Albanese? Or someone else? There has been speculation that Albanese might be replaced unless he seriously lifts his game: we believe if Labor can resolve this leadership issue – whether Albanese becomes a more substantial leader or a new leader is installed – the Liberal-National Coalition will be removed at the next election. It’s a government that waiting to be thrown out of office, and deservedly so.]]>    2780auspol,australianpodcasts,biden,earlyelection2021,qtfalsefull    An Evil Government, 2020 Political Wrap And A Crystal Ball For 2021https://www.spreaker.com/episode/an-evil-government-2020-political-wrap-and-a-crystal-ball-for-2021--42424072
    2020 will go down as one of the most dramatic years in human and political history, and we look at what went right, and what went wrong. Australia did manage the effects of the coronavirus well – despite the efforts of the federal government – but we could have done so much better on setting up the building blocks for a better and far more sustainable economy for the future. It was a lost opportunity. And it ended up being politics and business as per usual.

    As we move into 2021, what are the dangers for Scott Morrison? And what are the dangers for Anthony Albanese? Both need to be looking over their shoulder, but for different reasons. It’s going to be an exciting year and, with the possibility of a federal election, it’s going to be a very interesting one.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42424072Fri, 11 Dec 2020 00:00:18 +0000New PoliticsJust when we thought this federal government couldn't get any more evil, it goes out and tries to legislate the Indue card into permanance, enlists three debt recovery companies to chase down welfare recipients and creates workplace conditions that...
    2020 will go down as one of the most dramatic years in human and political history, and we look at what went right, and what went wrong. Australia did manage the effects of the coronavirus well – despite the efforts of the federal government – but we could have done so much better on setting up the building blocks for a better and far more sustainable economy for the future. It was a lost opportunity. And it ended up being politics and business as per usual.

    As we move into 2021, what are the dangers for Scott Morrison? And what are the dangers for Anthony Albanese? Both need to be looking over their shoulder, but for different reasons. It’s going to be an exciting year and, with the possibility of a federal election, it’s going to be a very interesting one.]]>    3169auspol,australianpolitics,greataustralianpods,nswpol,podcastsfalsefull    Mr Morrison Goes To Tokyo, Spin And The Cormann Conhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mr-morrison-goes-to-tokyo-spin-and-the-cormann-con--42183496
    Meanwhile, Mathias Cormann is using a taxpayer military jet (and eight government staff) to boost his chances of becoming the Secretary-General of the OECD. But when your chances were zero, any kind of support is not going to make too much difference and we suspect this is a gig Cormann will not get. But which Prime Minister is going to stand in the way of the ambition of someone who collated all the numbers to bring him the primeministership in the first place?

    How many pizzas are needed to lock down an entire city? No, it's not an Adelaidian joke, it's a serious concern in the City of Churches. But it wasn't the "pizza guy" who caused the lock-down, it was government incompetence.

    The Brereton Report outlined allegations of war crimes against Australian military personnel in Afghanistan, and we’re sure this is going to create a great amount of angst within the military community – as well as guaranteed to ensure Scott Morrison keeps aways from tanks at the next election campaign.

    And will the December “killing season” cause any problems for the Labor leader, Anthony Albanese? We think it could be on the cards.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/42183496Thu, 26 Nov 2020 21:30:09 +0000New PoliticsMr Morrison went to Tokyo and returned empty-handed. But the 24-hour trip was never about Japan, it was all about continuing to avoid scrutiny and land the Prime Minister into a two-week quarantine at the Lodge – just enough to avoid the final...
    Meanwhile, Mathias Cormann is using a taxpayer military jet (and eight government staff) to boost his chances of becoming the Secretary-General of the OECD. But when your chances were zero, any kind of support is not going to make too much difference and we suspect this is a gig Cormann will not get. But which Prime Minister is going to stand in the way of the ambition of someone who collated all the numbers to bring him the primeministership in the first place?

    How many pizzas are needed to lock down an entire city? No, it's not an Adelaidian joke, it's a serious concern in the City of Churches. But it wasn't the "pizza guy" who caused the lock-down, it was government incompetence.

    The Brereton Report outlined allegations of war crimes against Australian military personnel in Afghanistan, and we’re sure this is going to create a great amount of angst within the military community – as well as guaranteed to ensure Scott Morrison keeps aways from tanks at the next election campaign.

    And will the December “killing season” cause any problems for the Labor leader, Anthony Albanese? We think it could be on the cards.]]>    2902auspol,australianpolitics,nswpol,vicpolfalsefull    The US Election, Sex In The Cities And Goodbye Joelhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-us-election-sex-in-the-cities-and-goodbye-joel--41953725
    US elections are always big news around the globe but the news Trump was on the verge of eviction from the White House was blown away by the revelation Ministers Christian Porter and Alan Tudge were having affairs with their female staffers, smooching in late-night bars in Canberra, and then getting rid of these staffers when they no longer suited their purposes. If only these men in positions of power could keep their hands to themselves and understand that a workplace isn't a place where we all go to have sex and drink alcohol – the world would be a much better place.

    We also report on the Queensland election result, the likely outcome for the next series of Australian elections, the bizarre decision of the ALP’s Joel Fitzgibbons to announce his resignation just when the government was on the back foot with its sexual harassment scandals – maybe that's what his intention was all along.

    Also, it's NAIDOC week and the government refused to fly the Aboriginal flag at Parliament House. Because nothing upsets a conservative government more than ceding an inch to Aboriginal people or engaging in symbolism that would have cost absolutely nothing.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41953725Fri, 13 Nov 2020 07:00:08 +0000New PoliticsThe 2020 US Election has brought in a new President (we think) and the key question will be how an incoming Democrats administration will affect political behaviour in Australia and whether the Morrison government feels the need to do anything at all...
    US elections are always big news around the globe but the news Trump was on the verge of eviction from the White House was blown away by the revelation Ministers Christian Porter and Alan Tudge were having affairs with their female staffers, smooching in late-night bars in Canberra, and then getting rid of these staffers when they no longer suited their purposes. If only these men in positions of power could keep their hands to themselves and understand that a workplace isn't a place where we all go to have sex and drink alcohol – the world would be a much better place.

    We also report on the Queensland election result, the likely outcome for the next series of Australian elections, the bizarre decision of the ALP’s Joel Fitzgibbons to announce his resignation just when the government was on the back foot with its sexual harassment scandals – maybe that's what his intention was all along.

    Also, it's NAIDOC week and the government refused to fly the Aboriginal flag at Parliament House. Because nothing upsets a conservative government more than ceding an inch to Aboriginal people or engaging in symbolism that would have cost absolutely nothing.]]>    2887auspol,australianpolitics,insiders,qtfalsefull    The Burning Ring Of Australian Corruptionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-burning-ring-of-australian-corruption--41670684
    Kevin Rudd, the self-named ‘determined bastard’, has launched a petition for a Royal Commission into the Murdoch media empire. And it's something that's well overdue. Murdoch’s influence over the media in Australia is offensive, pervasive, and it's almost like The Joker is in charge of Gotham City. As Rudd says, News Corporation is a cancer on the Australian political landscape. A Royal Commission won't occur if a Liberal Government controls the levers, it will have to wait until a Labor Government comes into office. But Rudd might be the right person to make this happen.

    And why did the Prime Minister go for an all-out postal attack on Australia Post? Of course, it was all about the $20,000 spent on Cartier watches but it was more than that. Morrison is under pressure for not introducing a national corruption commission, and the attacks on Australia Post were all about creating a diversion. This Liberal–National Government is all about smokescreens, and this was another one. Government by smokescreen. It's a very apt title for this Morrison Government.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41670684Wed, 28 Oct 2020 00:00:14 +0000New PoliticsThere's far too much corruption in politics but what can be done about it? There's a compliant media that is always at hand to cover over any corruption performed by conservative governments, and they were at their best when it came to the NSW...
    Kevin Rudd, the self-named ‘determined bastard’, has launched a petition for a Royal Commission into the Murdoch media empire. And it's something that's well overdue. Murdoch’s influence over the media in Australia is offensive, pervasive, and it's almost like The Joker is in charge of Gotham City. As Rudd says, News Corporation is a cancer on the Australian political landscape. A Royal Commission won't occur if a Liberal Government controls the levers, it will have to wait until a Labor Government comes into office. But Rudd might be the right person to make this happen.

    And why did the Prime Minister go for an all-out postal attack on Australia Post? Of course, it was all about the $20,000 spent on Cartier watches but it was more than that. Morrison is under pressure for not introducing a national corruption commission, and the attacks on Australia Post were all about creating a diversion. This Liberal–National Government is all about smokescreens, and this was another one. Government by smokescreen. It's a very apt title for this Morrison Government.]]>    2818auspol,auspolpodcast,australianpolitics,insiders,qtfalsefull    The 2020 Budget And The Morrison Recessionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-2020-budget-and-the-morrison-recession--41429286
    Anthony Albanese’s Budget Reply speech was regarded as “a line in the sand”, and a “make or break” moment by many in the media. Of course, a Leader of the Opposition is always going to be under pressure to perform, and this year is no different. His Budget Reply speech hit all the right points and focused on universal child care and early education and a streamlined national energy grid. But will it be enough to close down the background murmurings about his leadership?

    The COVID Recession, or the Morrison Recession? We suggest all the economic data and evidence points to the Morrison Recession, and we're surprised it has taken Labor so long to start using this well-deserved moniker. It's the result of seven years of poor economic management by the Liberal–National Government; the coronavirus sealed the deal. There is absolutley no question about this, despite the media arguing the opposite.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41429286Tue, 13 Oct 2020 00:30:13 +0000New PoliticsIt's that time of the year when we look at the federal Budget (seasonally adjusted), and the Treasurer has announced a $213 billion deficit. We have no complaints: Governments need to spend money according to the circumstances and with a national...
    Anthony Albanese’s Budget Reply speech was regarded as “a line in the sand”, and a “make or break” moment by many in the media. Of course, a Leader of the Opposition is always going to be under pressure to perform, and this year is no different. His Budget Reply speech hit all the right points and focused on universal child care and early education and a streamlined national energy grid. But will it be enough to close down the background murmurings about his leadership?

    The COVID Recession, or the Morrison Recession? We suggest all the economic data and evidence points to the Morrison Recession, and we're surprised it has taken Labor so long to start using this well-deserved moniker. It's the result of seven years of poor economic management by the Liberal–National Government; the coronavirus sealed the deal. There is absolutley no question about this, despite the media arguing the opposite.]]>    2547auspol,australianpolitics,budget2020,budgetreply2020falsefull    NBN And The Continuing Tales Of Corruptionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/nbn-and-the-continuing-tales-of-corruption--41112696
    The federal government is also in the habit of recycling, but not in the way we’d expect them to. Old programs, old ideas, old announcements are spruced up, polished and re-issued, sometimes the announcements contain exactly the same words as their previous announcements – coronavirus vaccines, "gas-led recoveries”, for example. It's a sign of a government that doesn't know what it's doing and doesn't have ideas.

    Problems in the National Party? Of course there are: it's a moribund organisation, and in such personality-based political party, it's always going to cause trouble for its Coalition partner.

    It's not a week in politics unless there's a report of more corruption in the federal government. A parcel of land worth $3 million was purchased by the government for $30 million. If only the government was able to purchase integrity, but how much would that cost?

    The NBN is supposedly going to be fibre-to-the-premises in three years time, but it's all smoke and mirrors, just to create a positive media message. Did anyone mention a ‘back-flip’.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/41112696Fri, 25 Sep 2020 06:00:10 +0000New PoliticsThe mainstream media and the federal government are still making their push to open borders, even though the continuing threat to public health is still there. Border closures are quite popular in the states and territories – 91 per cent support in...
    The federal government is also in the habit of recycling, but not in the way we’d expect them to. Old programs, old ideas, old announcements are spruced up, polished and re-issued, sometimes the announcements contain exactly the same words as their previous announcements – coronavirus vaccines, "gas-led recoveries”, for example. It's a sign of a government that doesn't know what it's doing and doesn't have ideas.

    Problems in the National Party? Of course there are: it's a moribund organisation, and in such personality-based political party, it's always going to cause trouble for its Coalition partner.

    It's not a week in politics unless there's a report of more corruption in the federal government. A parcel of land worth $3 million was purchased by the government for $30 million. If only the government was able to purchase integrity, but how much would that cost?

    The NBN is supposedly going to be fibre-to-the-premises in three years time, but it's all smoke and mirrors, just to create a positive media message. Did anyone mention a ‘back-flip’.]]>    2750abcnews,auspol,australian-politicsfalsefull    Aged Care Disasters, Border Wars, Belting China Againhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/aged-care-disasters-border-wars-belting-china-again--40636603
    The tedious and totally predictable border war continues, and while it's not quite like the Battle of Stalingrad, the federal government (Liberal, by the way) is taking aim at the governments of Queensland, Western Australia and Victoria (Labor, by the way) over border closures. But, apparently, “we're all in this together”, so (cynicism warning) it couldn't be anything to do with the Liberal Government playing base politics.

    And whenever this federal government is in trouble, it has two cards it can play: race and hate. This time around, it's all about China. The Belt and Road Initiative is a China investment program that Scott Morrison spoke glowingly about in June 2019 but has decided that he never said anything good about the program, never supported the Victoria–China deal in 2018 (yes, he did), and will now veto these projects. This all came out of the blue, and is all about ramping up pressure on Daniel Andrews and the Victoria Labor Government. Who’s got time for the national interest or eliminating coronavirus when there are political points to be scored by using the Royal Flush of race and hate cards?

    In shades of Orwell’s Animal Farm, Liberal Party foreign investment: good; Labor Party foreign investment: bad. It really is as simple and basic as this, a philosophy implemented by a government filled with simpletons. It’s like a Ship of Fools.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40636603Tue, 01 Sep 2020 22:30:05 +0000New PoliticsWhat does a government Minister have to do to lose their job? Losing control of aged care homes and allowing coronavirus to cause the death of over 400 people isn't enough these days. How we long for those good ol’ days when a Minister could be stood...
    The tedious and totally predictable border war continues, and while it's not quite like the Battle of Stalingrad, the federal government (Liberal, by the way) is taking aim at the governments of Queensland, Western Australia and Victoria (Labor, by the way) over border closures. But, apparently, “we're all in this together”, so (cynicism warning) it couldn't be anything to do with the Liberal Government playing base politics.

    And whenever this federal government is in trouble, it has two cards it can play: race and hate. This time around, it's all about China. The Belt and Road Initiative is a China investment program that Scott Morrison spoke glowingly about in June 2019 but has decided that he never said anything good about the program, never supported the Victoria–China deal in 2018 (yes, he did), and will now veto these projects. This all came out of the blue, and is all about ramping up pressure on Daniel Andrews and the Victoria Labor Government. Who’s got time for the national interest or eliminating coronavirus when there are political points to be scored by using the Royal Flush of race and hate cards?

    In shades of Orwell’s Animal Farm, Liberal Party foreign investment: good; Labor Party foreign investment: bad. It really is as simple and basic as this, a philosophy implemented by a government filled with simpletons. It’s like a Ship of Fools.]]>    2111agedcare,auspol,australianpolitics,beltandroad,darwin,insidersfalsefull    Morrison’s Blame Shifting, JobKeeper Rorts, Fundraising Scandalshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/morrison-s-blame-shifting-jobkeeper-rorts-fundraising-scandals--40372288
    We were surprised to hear the hardware giant Bunnings is receiving JobKeeper subsidy support, even through their turnover is up by 19 per cent this year. And we were also surprised to hear some high-end accounting firms are also receiving JobKeeper. It's the price to be paid for getting the stimulus funding out as soon as possible, but surely the government could have foreseen some of these inequities and cleaned up the system so at least those in the cultural industries and the university sector could receive some of this support. Apparently, we’re all in this together. Just not everybody.

    But we weren’t surprised to hear the Liberal Party is using Parliament House to hold three fundraising events and we think it's the only reason why Scott Morrison changed his mind about holding Parliament again: to raise money for the Liberal Party. Parliament House is not quite like a church or a sacred site, but there is something very off about using the seat of government to hold party-political fund raising events. It’s seedy.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40372288Mon, 17 Aug 2020 22:30:14 +0000New PoliticsThe public’s patience with Scott Morrison’s constant obfuscation, deflection and outright lies is starting to wear thin. As Abraham Lincoln said “you can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot...
    We were surprised to hear the hardware giant Bunnings is receiving JobKeeper subsidy support, even through their turnover is up by 19 per cent this year. And we were also surprised to hear some high-end accounting firms are also receiving JobKeeper. It's the price to be paid for getting the stimulus funding out as soon as possible, but surely the government could have foreseen some of these inequities and cleaned up the system so at least those in the cultural industries and the university sector could receive some of this support. Apparently, we’re all in this together. Just not everybody.

    But we weren’t surprised to hear the Liberal Party is using Parliament House to hold three fundraising events and we think it's the only reason why Scott Morrison changed his mind about holding Parliament again: to raise money for the Liberal Party. Parliament House is not quite like a church or a sacred site, but there is something very off about using the seat of government to hold party-political fund raising events. It’s seedy.]]>    2352auspol,australianpolitics,jobkeeper,librortsfalsefull    Maggie Thatcher Cradle Snatcher And More COVID-19 Corruptionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/maggie-thatcher-cradle-snatcher-and-more-covid-19-corruption--40097151
    And the politics of COVID-19 continues, and it seems to be business as usual. Whatever people might think about the Premier of Victoria, Daniel Andrews, he turns up every single day of the week, delivering all the bad news about increasing numbers of coronavirus cases, facing the pressure forced upon him by the media and his many political opponents. And this is what the electoral expects from our leaders. Face the music. And lead.

    But where is the Prime Minister? As far away as possible from the problems, campaigning in Queensland, inspecting tuna fish at a Liberal–National Party donor’s seafood company, and heaping more political pressure on Andrews from a far-away distance, and supporting Clive Palmer’s High Court case to re-open the Western Australian borders. This is not the right leadership for the times.

    Just when we might think corruption might be over in government corporations, or directors might be more circumspect after all the focus on financial services and a Royal Commission into the sector, there's another large scale scandal occurring in iCare, the worker’s compensation scheme managed by the NSW Government. Or mismanaged. But whichever way, at least Eddie Obeid can longer be blamed for corruption: this is all on the heads of the NSW Liberal–National Government.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/40097151Sat, 01 Aug 2020 22:30:19 +0000New PoliticsMargaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan instigated a brand of neoliberal economics and politics that affected the world for almost four decades. They left the political scene over 30 years ago, and whatever people think about their economic practices and...
    And the politics of COVID-19 continues, and it seems to be business as usual. Whatever people might think about the Premier of Victoria, Daniel Andrews, he turns up every single day of the week, delivering all the bad news about increasing numbers of coronavirus cases, facing the pressure forced upon him by the media and his many political opponents. And this is what the electoral expects from our leaders. Face the music. And lead.

    But where is the Prime Minister? As far away as possible from the problems, campaigning in Queensland, inspecting tuna fish at a Liberal–National Party donor’s seafood company, and heaping more political pressure on Andrews from a far-away distance, and supporting Clive Palmer’s High Court case to re-open the Western Australian borders. This is not the right leadership for the times.

    Just when we might think corruption might be over in government corporations, or directors might be more circumspect after all the focus on financial services and a Royal Commission into the sector, there's another large scale scandal occurring in iCare, the worker’s compensation scheme managed by the NSW Government. Or mismanaged. But whichever way, at least Eddie Obeid can longer be blamed for corruption: this is all on the heads of the NSW Liberal–National Government.]]>    2321auspodcasts,auspol,australianpolitics,covid19australia,falklandswar,mmt,neoliberalism,nswpol,reagan,thatcher,vicpolfalsefull    Eden-Monaro Wrap, Palace Letters And The New Republic, The Prime Minister For Footballhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/eden-monaro-wrap-palace-letters-and-the-new-republic-the-prime-minister-for-football--39835236
    For all the glowing support provided to Scott Morrison by the mainstream media, there's an underbelly of electoral negativity that will come back to haunt this Government. The electorate is in a holding pattern to see how the Government responds in the long-term to COVID-19 and the downturn in the economy: if they mess this up, they can expect to be defeated at the next federal election in 2022. That's the main message from the Eden-Monaro by-election. And choosing strong local candidates is another key message.

    The Palace Letters were always going to be controversial, irrespective of their content: did they reveal too much about the 1975 Dismissal? Or too little? Either way, the release of the Letters will bring up the inevitable debates about should Australia become a republic. The British Monarch had too much influence in 1975, but 45 years later, it's a constitutional appendix that has no need and is an irritant on our political system. And, like an appendix, it's an operation that needs to be performed sooner rather than later.

    Hold the crisis: it's really time for the football. And for the Prime Minister, that really means going to the corporate box at Kogarah Oval to watch some grown men kick an oval-shaped pig-skin on grass, schmooze with business leaders and a former Liberal Party director, the one who somehow forgot he had donated $165,000 to the Liberal Party. That tends to happen to a political party that represents capital interests and big business. And that Liberal Party donor – also known as Scott Briggs – is someone who is keen to snatch the business of a privatised Australian visa processing system.

    Anyway, who's got time for a national crime and corruption commission to look into something like this. Don’t interrupt: there is a football game to watch, schooners to sip from, sponsors and donors to meet and greet. The wife and daughters are away too, so, it's time to drink up. The national interest can wait.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/39835236Sat, 18 Jul 2020 22:00:20 +0000New PoliticsIt's a by-election the Liberal Party should have won, but didn't. Eden-Monaro. Despite all the resources put into the campaign, the Government nudged the margin by just 0.45% – not much and certainly not the massive swing and "brutal lesson to Labor"...
    For all the glowing support provided to Scott Morrison by the mainstream media, there's an underbelly of electoral negativity that will come back to haunt this Government. The electorate is in a holding pattern to see how the Government responds in the long-term to COVID-19 and the downturn in the economy: if they mess this up, they can expect to be defeated at the next federal election in 2022. That's the main message from the Eden-Monaro by-election. And choosing strong local candidates is another key message.

    The Palace Letters were always going to be controversial, irrespective of their content: did they reveal too much about the 1975 Dismissal? Or too little? Either way, the release of the Letters will bring up the inevitable debates about should Australia become a republic. The British Monarch had too much influence in 1975, but 45 years later, it's a constitutional appendix that has no need and is an irritant on our political system. And, like an appendix, it's an operation that needs to be performed sooner rather than later.

    Hold the crisis: it's really time for the football. And for the Prime Minister, that really means going to the corporate box at Kogarah Oval to watch some grown men kick an oval-shaped pig-skin on grass, schmooze with business leaders and a former Liberal Party director, the one who somehow forgot he had donated $165,000 to the Liberal Party. That tends to happen to a political party that represents capital interests and big business. And that Liberal Party donor – also known as Scott Briggs – is someone who is keen to snatch the business of a privatised Australian visa processing system.

    Anyway, who's got time for a national crime and corruption commission to look into something like this. Don’t interrupt: there is a football game to watch, schooners to sip from, sponsors and donors to meet and greet. The wife and daughters are away too, so, it's time to drink up. The national interest can wait.]]>    2898auspol,covid19,edenmonarovotes,insiders,nswpol,scottyfrommarketing,vicpolfalsefull    The New McCarthyism, Arts Attack, The Politics Of COVID-19https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-new-mccarthyism-arts-attack-the-politics-of-covid-19--35549032
    And the politicised Australian Federal Police is always going to play its part, helping to stitch up a NSW Labor politician who mentioned a few nice words about the Chinese President. And, in case you missed, that's a NSW Labor politician, announced with a large megaphone.

    Are the Barbarians at the gate, and do they raise their guns at the mention of culture? It seems they do, with their constant attacks on the ABC and a meagre $250 million rescue package for the arts, screen and entertainment industry that's likely to kill it off, rather than save it. $783 million of funding has been cut from the ABC since 2014 and the government keeps saying “there is no cut to the ABC”. But, as George Constanza loves to say: it's not a lie if you truly believe it.

    And the politics of COVID-19 continues. Far from being the time where, as Scott Morrison said, “politics are to be left at the door”, this has been a time of more political ideology, more unhinged attacks, blame-shifting and targeting of the poor. One gets the feeling the government is getting a little bit inebriated on the Prime Minister’s high approval ratings and picking up that tried and tested attribute that accompanies political arrogance: tone-deafness.

    Will there be a political price to pay? We'll find out after the Eden-Monaro byelection.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/35549032Fri, 03 Jul 2020 03:00:06 +0000New PoliticsMcCarthyism was that awful US syndrome from the 1950s, where the mention of ‘communism’ was like a combination of the bubonic plague, 1918 virus and COVID-19. It was a virus we thought the world might have rid itself of, but it's alive and well in...
    And the politicised Australian Federal Police is always going to play its part, helping to stitch up a NSW Labor politician who mentioned a few nice words about the Chinese President. And, in case you missed, that's a NSW Labor politician, announced with a large megaphone.

    Are the Barbarians at the gate, and do they raise their guns at the mention of culture? It seems they do, with their constant attacks on the ABC and a meagre $250 million rescue package for the arts, screen and entertainment industry that's likely to kill it off, rather than save it. $783 million of funding has been cut from the ABC since 2014 and the government keeps saying “there is no cut to the ABC”. But, as George Constanza loves to say: it's not a lie if you truly believe it.

    And the politics of COVID-19 continues. Far from being the time where, as Scott Morrison said, “politics are to be left at the door”, this has been a time of more political ideology, more unhinged attacks, blame-shifting and targeting of the poor. One gets the feeling the government is getting a little bit inebriated on the Prime Minister’s high approval ratings and picking up that tried and tested attribute that accompanies political arrogance: tone-deafness.

    Will there be a political price to pay? We'll find out after the Eden-Monaro byelection.]]>    2495auspol,australianpolitics,edenmonarovotesfalsefull    A Tale Of Two Protests, Branch Stacking, An Open Economy, Insiders, JobKeeper Rortshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-tale-of-two-protests-branch-stacking-an-open-economy-insiders-jobkeeper-rorts--31913849
    Branch stacking hasn't got anything to do with trees, but it's also not the sole domain of the Labor Party. The past two Liberal Party Prime Ministers have entered parliament on the back of “industrial-scale branch stacking”: Malcolm Turnbull in the seat of Wentworth; Scott Morrison in the seat of Cook. Branch stacking isn't illegal, but it corrupts the democratic process. Labor has acted to remove the stackers in Victoria. Will the Liberal Party also clean out their substantial mess?

    Are the economy and society opening up too quickly? Or too slowly? There's a second wave of coronavirus developing in northern China – Australia is managing the infection rate very well but the maniacal calls to open up the borders are falling along political lines. These calls are becoming quite predictable and quite boring, but it's best to show ‘abundance of caution’, as the Prime Minister keeps saying.

    The ABC’s Insiders program has been broadcasting since 2001 and screened almost 800 episodes. That's 20 years, and they’ve never invited an Indigenous journalist as a panelist until last weekend. 20 years. What is important now is how long it will be before the second Indigenous journalist appears, and whether they'll be asked to discuss general political issues, not just Indigenous issues.

    The government wants to end the JobKeeper support as soon as possible but will wait until after the 4 July byelection in Eden-Monaro. Why? Because ending JobKeeper will be unpopular and they want to win the seat. Cynical, yes. But if JobKeeper is removed, it will create an economic calamity. Watch this space. It's going to be fun.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/31913849Fri, 19 Jun 2020 22:00:17 +0000New PoliticsThe Prime Minister supported radical anti-vaxer/5G/anti-lockdown/Bill Gates protests, saying people have a right to express themselves, but wanted to lockdown the Black Lives Matter and deaths in custody rallies. It’s an obvious duplicity but no one...
    Branch stacking hasn't got anything to do with trees, but it's also not the sole domain of the Labor Party. The past two Liberal Party Prime Ministers have entered parliament on the back of “industrial-scale branch stacking”: Malcolm Turnbull in the seat of Wentworth; Scott Morrison in the seat of Cook. Branch stacking isn't illegal, but it corrupts the democratic process. Labor has acted to remove the stackers in Victoria. Will the Liberal Party also clean out their substantial mess?

    Are the economy and society opening up too quickly? Or too slowly? There's a second wave of coronavirus developing in northern China – Australia is managing the infection rate very well but the maniacal calls to open up the borders are falling along political lines. These calls are becoming quite predictable and quite boring, but it's best to show ‘abundance of caution’, as the Prime Minister keeps saying.

    The ABC’s Insiders program has been broadcasting since 2001 and screened almost 800 episodes. That's 20 years, and they’ve never invited an Indigenous journalist as a panelist until last weekend. 20 years. What is important now is how long it will be before the second Indigenous journalist appears, and whether they'll be asked to discuss general political issues, not just Indigenous issues.

    The government wants to end the JobKeeper support as soon as possible but will wait until after the 4 July byelection in Eden-Monaro. Why? Because ending JobKeeper will be unpopular and they want to win the seat. Cynical, yes. But if JobKeeper is removed, it will create an economic calamity. Watch this space. It's going to be fun.]]>    3144auspol,australianpolitics,blacklivesmatter,insiders,qtfalsefull    The New Accord Is A New WorkChoices; Recession, Robodebt, Newspapers Closing, Racismhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-new-accord-is-a-new-workchoices-recession-robodebt-newspapers-closing-racism--29531037
    The Government’s Robodebt system has been a disaster: governments should never be involved in this type of program causing so much harm to the public. It cost $600 million to recoup $721 million, and after a High Court case adjudicated that Robodebt is illegal, all of that money will need to be paid back. Plus interest, damages and costs.

    News Corporation is closing down 112 newspapers: is this a blow to regional news, democracy and local businesses? Or will it be good to see the end of papers that are poor in quality, and do little more than promote news favourable to Liberal–National Party interests?

    There are protests and riots in the US. And racism. But the Australian media looks to the events in America with the belief that systematic and institutional racism only exists in faraway places. Time for Australian media to wake up: racism is rife in Australia and just thinking it always happens somewhere else won't make it go away.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/29531037Fri, 05 Jun 2020 06:00:31 +0000New PoliticsThere have been many comparisons made between Scott Morrison and Bob Hawke recently, but Morrison is no Bob Hawke. The Accord was totally different from Morrison’s plans, dubbed "Accord 2.0" by the friendly media. But media management is what the...
    The Government’s Robodebt system has been a disaster: governments should never be involved in this type of program causing so much harm to the public. It cost $600 million to recoup $721 million, and after a High Court case adjudicated that Robodebt is illegal, all of that money will need to be paid back. Plus interest, damages and costs.

    News Corporation is closing down 112 newspapers: is this a blow to regional news, democracy and local businesses? Or will it be good to see the end of papers that are poor in quality, and do little more than promote news favourable to Liberal–National Party interests?

    There are protests and riots in the US. And racism. But the Australian media looks to the events in America with the belief that systematic and institutional racism only exists in faraway places. Time for Australian media to wake up: racism is rife in Australia and just thinking it always happens somewhere else won't make it go away.]]>    2922australian-politics,racism,recession,robodebt,scott-morrisonfalsefull    The War On China, Labor Needs Grunt, Schools Disasterhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-war-on-china-labor-needs-grunt-schools-disaster--28014261
    Fresh from celebrating Scott Morrison’s unlikely election victory anniversary, the media championed Australia’s push for a ‘weapons inspectors’ inquiry into the origins of COVID-19 (well, that's not correct, it was actually pushed by the European Union). And if we can remember the last time ‘weapons inspectors’ were used on the international stage in 2003, it didn't end up too well.

    What followed was an unnecessary humiliation of China, and it has retaliated with an 80 per cent tariff slapped onto Australian barley for the next five years. That's effectively saying goodbye to a $1.5 billion per year export market. Will those barley producers who usually vote for the Coalition, remember this act of diplomatic ineptitude at the 2022 election? They are the ones who will be paying for it…

    It's difficult being an Opposition Leader at the best of times, but especially during a national crisis. During these times, the Opposition is usually reduced to irrelevancy, but it's the job of a political party to overcome this and ensure it remains relevant. And with a federal government performing ineptly and corruptly, there is so much material to work with. But Anthony Albanese and Labor need to start working on this material (and its own), because time is slipping away.

    Schools in NSW will be fully opened soon but the day after the announcement, a COVID-19 case was recorded at St Ignatius in Riverview, the alma mater of Tony Abbott. We don't need to say too much more about this but is the NSW Government throwing caution to the wind? In the choice between money and public health, the government has not chosen wisely.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/28014261Fri, 22 May 2020 02:15:13 +0000New PoliticsThe Australian economy is falling into a heap, and what better way to provide a cushion to the economy than to start a fruitless diplomatic stoush with China, our largest trading partner. Fresh from celebrating Scott Morrison’s unlikely election...
    Fresh from celebrating Scott Morrison’s unlikely election victory anniversary, the media championed Australia’s push for a ‘weapons inspectors’ inquiry into the origins of COVID-19 (well, that's not correct, it was actually pushed by the European Union). And if we can remember the last time ‘weapons inspectors’ were used on the international stage in 2003, it didn't end up too well.

    What followed was an unnecessary humiliation of China, and it has retaliated with an 80 per cent tariff slapped onto Australian barley for the next five years. That's effectively saying goodbye to a $1.5 billion per year export market. Will those barley producers who usually vote for the Coalition, remember this act of diplomatic ineptitude at the 2022 election? They are the ones who will be paying for it…

    It's difficult being an Opposition Leader at the best of times, but especially during a national crisis. During these times, the Opposition is usually reduced to irrelevancy, but it's the job of a political party to overcome this and ensure it remains relevant. And with a federal government performing ineptly and corruptly, there is so much material to work with. But Anthony Albanese and Labor need to start working on this material (and its own), because time is slipping away.

    Schools in NSW will be fully opened soon but the day after the announcement, a COVID-19 case was recorded at St Ignatius in Riverview, the alma mater of Tony Abbott. We don't need to say too much more about this but is the NSW Government throwing caution to the wind? In the choice between money and public health, the government has not chosen wisely.]]>    2589anthony-albanese,australian-politics,china-australia,corruption,covid-19,labor-party,politics,scott-morrisonfalsefull    A School Brawl, COVIDSafe Not So Safe, Election Time In Eden-Monarohttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-school-brawl-covidsafe-not-so-safe-election-time-in-eden-monaro--26872672
    And in their quest to open up the economy, the government has also released the COVIDSafe app – some people think it may actually stop the coronavirus, but the Prime Minister will just be happy if they're fooled enough to think downloading the app will allow them to go the footy, or go to the pub for a quick drink. For a government so lacking in trust, it's surprising so many people are following their instructions. But there's one major problem with the COVIDSafe app: it doesn't actually work. But perhaps that was never the intention.

    We love elections and there's a by-election coming up in the seat of Eden-Monaro, following the resignation of Mike Kelly. The date hasn't been set yet but, already, the preselected candidate, Kristy McBain, has already seen off three opponents: John Barilaro, Andrew Constance and Jim Molan. Not bad after just five days and a campaign that hasn't even started yet.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/26872672Thu, 07 May 2020 22:30:05 +0000New PoliticsSchools have become the new battleground for the Morrison Government and they've started a huge brawl with the Victoria Premier, Daniel Andrews. Morrison and his entourage of Chief Medical Officers are using flimsy evidence to push schools to fully...
    And in their quest to open up the economy, the government has also released the COVIDSafe app – some people think it may actually stop the coronavirus, but the Prime Minister will just be happy if they're fooled enough to think downloading the app will allow them to go the footy, or go to the pub for a quick drink. For a government so lacking in trust, it's surprising so many people are following their instructions. But there's one major problem with the COVIDSafe app: it doesn't actually work. But perhaps that was never the intention.

    We love elections and there's a by-election coming up in the seat of Eden-Monaro, following the resignation of Mike Kelly. The date hasn't been set yet but, already, the preselected candidate, Kristy McBain, has already seen off three opponents: John Barilaro, Andrew Constance and Jim Molan. Not bad after just five days and a campaign that hasn't even started yet.]]>    2379australian-politics,coronavirusfalsefull    Tricky Governments, New Economies And The Turnbull–Murdoch Battle Royalehttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tricky-governments-new-economies-and-the-turnbull-murdoch-battle-royale--25910336
    And the LNP Government will have to work towards a new type of economy: the old one stopped working. But are they up to it? We think not. Time to buy up essential services and accepting an economy isn't just all about GDP, it's also about love and relationships, just like in the happy countries of Bhutan and New Zealand.

    Malcolm Turnbull has released his memoirs and has announced he wants to do all the things he didn't do while he was the Prime Minister of Australia. Well, that is very good news, but it might be wise to let Turnbull know the time to do all these things is when you are the Prime Minister, not when you are not the Prime Minister. And a big announcement about the symbiotic relationship between News Corporation and the Liberal Party – tell us something we didn't already know. Yes, Murdoch is a cancer on the Australian political landscape, but standing up to Rupert Murdoch means actually standing up to him, not giving him more of Australia's media, installing an inferior NBN that protects News Corporation assets, and gifting a lazy $30 million to Foxtel: no questions asked. That's not standing up, that's being ‘owned’ by Rupert Murdoch.

    And the Ruby Princess incident: a cover-up or standard police work? We'll just have to bide our time but the truth has to come out, if trust in governments and institutions is to be restored.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/25910336Wed, 22 Apr 2020 22:00:08 +0000New PoliticsJust because there's a coronavirus crisis, we can't assume a government will act in the best interests of its people. Trust in governments and authority is at a low level, so why would the public have trust in a Tracing App, when all it's going to do...
    And the LNP Government will have to work towards a new type of economy: the old one stopped working. But are they up to it? We think not. Time to buy up essential services and accepting an economy isn't just all about GDP, it's also about love and relationships, just like in the happy countries of Bhutan and New Zealand.

    Malcolm Turnbull has released his memoirs and has announced he wants to do all the things he didn't do while he was the Prime Minister of Australia. Well, that is very good news, but it might be wise to let Turnbull know the time to do all these things is when you are the Prime Minister, not when you are not the Prime Minister. And a big announcement about the symbiotic relationship between News Corporation and the Liberal Party – tell us something we didn't already know. Yes, Murdoch is a cancer on the Australian political landscape, but standing up to Rupert Murdoch means actually standing up to him, not giving him more of Australia's media, installing an inferior NBN that protects News Corporation assets, and gifting a lazy $30 million to Foxtel: no questions asked. That's not standing up, that's being ‘owned’ by Rupert Murdoch.

    And the Ruby Princess incident: a cover-up or standard police work? We'll just have to bide our time but the truth has to come out, if trust in governments and institutions is to be restored.]]>    2717australia-economics,australia-politics,coronavirus,malcolm-turnbullfalsefull    The Ruby Princess Scandal, Coronavirus Politics And Pell Malhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ruby-princess-scandal-coronavirus-politics-and-pell-mal--25012601
    Governments can rarely be trusted. Even when the public has offered them so much goodwill to solve the health and economic caused by the coronavirus virus, they are so keen to play their political games and mislead the public. Coal mines in Sydney? Yes, the NSW Government just approved a coal mine extension under a major Sydney drinking water basin. Losing working rights? Yes, the Australian Government wants to undermine the Fair Work Act. And it's all happening because the electorate is busy watching the coronavirus. That's why scrutiny needs to be maintained.

    George Pell has been released from jail after the High Court quashed his conviction of historical child sexual abuses. Whatever happened to the notion of juries sitting at the apex of the legal system? Well, it gets thrown to the bottom of the scrapheap with unlimited finances and legal resources available to help win your case. And that's what the Catholic church managed to do. We agree with Mr Bumble, the character from Oliver Twist: The law really is an ass.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/25012601Wed, 08 Apr 2020 22:00:10 +0000New PoliticsForget The Dismissal, forget Fine Cotton, the Hilton Bombing and even the Offset Alpine fire. The Ruby Princess is shaping up to be one of the biggest scandals in Australian history. And all under the noses of the NSW and Australian Governments....
    Governments can rarely be trusted. Even when the public has offered them so much goodwill to solve the health and economic caused by the coronavirus virus, they are so keen to play their political games and mislead the public. Coal mines in Sydney? Yes, the NSW Government just approved a coal mine extension under a major Sydney drinking water basin. Losing working rights? Yes, the Australian Government wants to undermine the Fair Work Act. And it's all happening because the electorate is busy watching the coronavirus. That's why scrutiny needs to be maintained.

    George Pell has been released from jail after the High Court quashed his conviction of historical child sexual abuses. Whatever happened to the notion of juries sitting at the apex of the legal system? Well, it gets thrown to the bottom of the scrapheap with unlimited finances and legal resources available to help win your case. And that's what the Catholic church managed to do. We agree with Mr Bumble, the character from Oliver Twist: The law really is an ass.]]>    2318auspol,australian-politics,coronavirusfalsefull    The Wrong Government For The Times And The End Of Neoliberalismhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-wrong-government-for-the-times-and-the-end-of-neoliberalism--24376308
    The Morrison government has been dragging its feet, on the economic and health fronts, and it seems that it’s directing its actions based on ideological pursuits, rather than putting that all aside, and working out what is the best outcome for the entire community.

    Economic action has been slow – there are two stimulus packages, but not a cent has actually been received by anyone yet, and government messaging on health outcomes have been contradictory and confusing.

    Governments of all persuasions need to rise to the occasion in a time of crisis but it seems that this government is going to exhaust all other options before embarking on the correct course of action. Is this the right government for the times, or do we need something different?

    Whether we have the right government at this time is questionable, but neoliberalism as an economic philosophy has had its day and needs to answer some questions of its own. Modern history has shown in times of crisis, the world does have the ability to stop, reassess the direction it’s heading in and develop strategies for a better future. In 1919, the Paris Peace Conference resulted in the creation of the League of Nations – that failed in its primary purpose, which was to prevent further war – and after the Second World War ended in 1945, we saw the creation of the United Nations, instigation of the Bretton Woods agreement which set up news terms of monetary relations between North America, Western Europe, Australia and Japan, resulted in the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Monetary Fund.

    The mode of thinking at that stage was there needed to be a control over speculative financial capital, a need to consolidate Keynesian economic thinking, and stabilise world economies – that was economic thinking that existed until the onset of neoliberalism in the early 1980s, and there have been calls for a new mode of economic thinking to guide us through this current economic crisis.

    In 1945, the world has Churchill, Roosevelt and Curtin – among others – great national figures in their respective countries. Now we have Boris Johnson, Donald Trump and Scott Morrison – we asked the question before if Australia has the right leadership right now – but internationally, do we have the right leadership to create a new financial and economic structure to guide the world through this crisis?]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/24376308Thu, 26 Mar 2020 12:00:18 +0000New PoliticsThe coronavirus crisis is likely to be with us for some time to come and governments have been doing their best to manage the crisis, but it seems some countries are doing better than others. The Morrison government has been dragging its feet, on...
    The Morrison government has been dragging its feet, on the economic and health fronts, and it seems that it’s directing its actions based on ideological pursuits, rather than putting that all aside, and working out what is the best outcome for the entire community.

    Economic action has been slow – there are two stimulus packages, but not a cent has actually been received by anyone yet, and government messaging on health outcomes have been contradictory and confusing.

    Governments of all persuasions need to rise to the occasion in a time of crisis but it seems that this government is going to exhaust all other options before embarking on the correct course of action. Is this the right government for the times, or do we need something different?

    Whether we have the right government at this time is questionable, but neoliberalism as an economic philosophy has had its day and needs to answer some questions of its own. Modern history has shown in times of crisis, the world does have the ability to stop, reassess the direction it’s heading in and develop strategies for a better future. In 1919, the Paris Peace Conference resulted in the creation of the League of Nations – that failed in its primary purpose, which was to prevent further war – and after the Second World War ended in 1945, we saw the creation of the United Nations, instigation of the Bretton Woods agreement which set up news terms of monetary relations between North America, Western Europe, Australia and Japan, resulted in the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Monetary Fund.

    The mode of thinking at that stage was there needed to be a control over speculative financial capital, a need to consolidate Keynesian economic thinking, and stabilise world economies – that was economic thinking that existed until the onset of neoliberalism in the early 1980s, and there have been calls for a new mode of economic thinking to guide us through this current economic crisis.

    In 1945, the world has Churchill, Roosevelt and Curtin – among others – great national figures in their respective countries. Now we have Boris Johnson, Donald Trump and Scott Morrison – we asked the question before if Australia has the right leadership right now – but internationally, do we have the right leadership to create a new financial and economic structure to guide the world through this crisis?]]>    1977australian-politics,coronavirus,politicsfalsefull    Coronavirus, Caretaker Conventions Smashed, And The Turning Of The Tide Against Morrisonhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/coronavirus-caretaker-conventions-smashed-and-the-turning-of-the-tide-against-morrison--23830206
    Who’s got time for caretaker conventions when there's an election to be won? Conservative governments are very keen to break conventions and protocols and perhaps it's time for laws rather than protocols. There are no repercussions for breaking conventions and we're applying 19th century rules to 21st century politics. It's time for a rethink.

    And has the media started a slow turning of the tide against Scott Morrison? We think so, and after giving Morrison so much support when he became Prime Minister in 2018 and in the lead-up to the 2019 election, the media is going harder and asking tougher questions. It's about 18 months too late, but better late than never.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/23830206Fri, 13 Mar 2020 21:00:16 +0000New PoliticsEveryone is talking about the coronavirus but, unlike most of the media and most of the government, we'll leave the medical debate to the medical fraternity and discuss the politics and economics of the crisis instead. And it is going to cause a...
    Who’s got time for caretaker conventions when there's an election to be won? Conservative governments are very keen to break conventions and protocols and perhaps it's time for laws rather than protocols. There are no repercussions for breaking conventions and we're applying 19th century rules to 21st century politics. It's time for a rethink.

    And has the media started a slow turning of the tide against Scott Morrison? We think so, and after giving Morrison so much support when he became Prime Minister in 2018 and in the lead-up to the 2019 election, the media is going harder and asking tougher questions. It's about 18 months too late, but better late than never.]]>    2443australian-politics,current-affairs-australia,politicsfalsefull    The New Year Of Political Corruption And Solutions For Parliamentary Reformhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-new-year-of-political-corruption-and-solutions-for-parliamentary-reform--22656309
    And if that wasn't enough, the Australian Federal Police dropped the forgery case against Angus Taylor: nothing to see here, please move along. It's obvious the Liberal–National Government is too close to the AFP – the AFP investigates the issues that are favourable to the government, but ignores the issues that are unfavourable to the government. It's not the way an open and democratic system should operate, and trust in government is plummeting even further.

    So what can be done about this? We commence our series on solutions to a sick democracy, and make suggestions for how to improve accountability in the parliament: an independent speaker and ditching the Dorothy Dix questions. That would be a good start.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/22656309Tue, 11 Feb 2020 21:00:19 +0000New PoliticsAnother year, another round of political corruption to deal with. Scott Morrison claimed "a miracle" caused him to win the 2019 election but, as with most claims of divine intervention, that old human frailty of vice and corruption proved to be the...
    And if that wasn't enough, the Australian Federal Police dropped the forgery case against Angus Taylor: nothing to see here, please move along. It's obvious the Liberal–National Government is too close to the AFP – the AFP investigates the issues that are favourable to the government, but ignores the issues that are unfavourable to the government. It's not the way an open and democratic system should operate, and trust in government is plummeting even further.

    So what can be done about this? We commence our series on solutions to a sick democracy, and make suggestions for how to improve accountability in the parliament: an independent speaker and ditching the Dorothy Dix questions. That would be a good start.]]>    2683auspol,australia,politicsfalsefull    Climate Change Again, The Angus Beauty Myth Turns Ugly, Goodbye 2019https://www.spreaker.com/episode/climate-change-again-the-angus-beauty-myth-turns-ugly-goodbye-2019--20890448
    People are angry about climate change, but it's not just the conservative side of politics that is suffering the opprobrium: the biggest howls of abuse at the recent climate change rally in the centre of Sydney was reserved for the Labor leader, Anthony Albanese, even though Labor isn't the government. This is a problem for Labor, but how will they deal with this issue?

    The year began with a lie, and ended with a lie. Angus Taylor, the Minister who is the gift to the Opposition that just keeps on giving, decided to just keep lying about seeing Naomi Wolf at Oxford in 1991, even though she left three years before. Even when faced with irrefutable evidence, the government doubles down and keeps up with the fabrication. They're worse than troublesome kindergarten kids that can just never give up the lie.

    And did someone mention new books? Yes, we have a new book coming out: Divided Opinions, coming out in January 2020. It's a review of the 2019 year in politics. It's must. have material. Keep a look out for on our website.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20890448Thu, 19 Dec 2019 21:00:18 +0000New PoliticsThe climate change debate is heating up to a temperature even hotter than the NSW bushfires. Just as the Prime Minister has decided to take a holiday somewhere in the Pacific and instructing the media not to report that he was actually on leave. To...
    People are angry about climate change, but it's not just the conservative side of politics that is suffering the opprobrium: the biggest howls of abuse at the recent climate change rally in the centre of Sydney was reserved for the Labor leader, Anthony Albanese, even though Labor isn't the government. This is a problem for Labor, but how will they deal with this issue?

    The year began with a lie, and ended with a lie. Angus Taylor, the Minister who is the gift to the Opposition that just keeps on giving, decided to just keep lying about seeing Naomi Wolf at Oxford in 1991, even though she left three years before. Even when faced with irrefutable evidence, the government doubles down and keeps up with the fabrication. They're worse than troublesome kindergarten kids that can just never give up the lie.

    And did someone mention new books? Yes, we have a new book coming out: Divided Opinions, coming out in January 2020. It's a review of the 2019 year in politics. It's must. have material. Keep a look out for on our website.]]>    1759auspol,nswpolfalsefull    Forged Democracy, Labor Reviews Itself, And Climate Change Politics Fired Uphttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/forged-democracy-labor-reviews-itself-and-climate-change-politics-fired-up--20000159
    The Labor Party has released its review into the 2019 Federal Election, and are busy assessing why they lost and how they can improve their chances in the 2022 election. Will they be successful? Labor always seems to need a charismatic leader to take them on the path away from the wilderness. Is Anthony Albanese the one to do this?

    While half of Australia has been burning, conservative political leaders have been quick to blame "inner-city, chardonnay, latte-sipping, raving lunatics". But let's not play politics, the Prime Minister and NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, said so. And "today is not the day" to make the link between climate change and severe bushfire activity. Just because. Climate change politics is at its most destructive level ever, and the Liberal–National Party fiddle while New South Wales and Queensland burn away. Something needs to change.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/20000159Wed, 13 Nov 2019 02:15:19 +0000New PoliticsDemocracy fell down a few rungs when Energy Minister, Angus Taylor, used forged documents to attack an opponent. Did he know they were forged? Did he forge the documents himself? Answers to these questions need to be provided. Why has public trust in...
    The Labor Party has released its review into the 2019 Federal Election, and are busy assessing why they lost and how they can improve their chances in the 2022 election. Will they be successful? Labor always seems to need a charismatic leader to take them on the path away from the wilderness. Is Anthony Albanese the one to do this?

    While half of Australia has been burning, conservative political leaders have been quick to blame "inner-city, chardonnay, latte-sipping, raving lunatics". But let's not play politics, the Prime Minister and NSW Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, said so. And "today is not the day" to make the link between climate change and severe bushfire activity. Just because. Climate change politics is at its most destructive level ever, and the Liberal–National Party fiddle while New South Wales and Queensland burn away. Something needs to change.]]>    22392019-election,alp-review,australian-politics,bushfires,climate-change,politicsfalsefull    Mr Morrison Goes To Washington, QAnon And Celebrity Politicshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mr-morrison-goes-to-washington-qanon-and-celebrity-politics--19569237
    And in surprise news, a QAnon adherent is appearing to be a close friend of the Prime Minister. Sure, Prime Ministers need to mix with a wide range of people so they can easily keep their finger on the pulse of the nation – but QAnon? It's a radical conspiracy theory that believes in lizards ruling the world, pedophiles controlling the universities and media, and Donald Trump is apparently the one that will save the world. Without a clear and obvious agenda, this government is rambling and there's always external people willing to step in and assist – people such as QAnon adherents, the Institute of Public Affairs… and the mainstream media.

    Australia has a new ambassador… but not of the kind that we know of. The government has enlisted the media celebrity, Scott Cam, for ambassadorial services to promote trades among the youth of today. Very meritorious, of course, but where is the support program for this? Where are the apprenticeships? This Liberal Government has cut $3 billion from vocational education and national apprenticeships but, it's OK. Appointing a media celebrity is the best way to gloss over any problems.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19569237Fri, 18 Oct 2019 21:00:05 +0000New PoliticsScott Morrison has been to Washington and back, and a State Dinner was held in his honour. While grandstanding and hurling insults at China might not be the best way to protect a $40 billion per year export market, there must be wiser heads within the...
    And in surprise news, a QAnon adherent is appearing to be a close friend of the Prime Minister. Sure, Prime Ministers need to mix with a wide range of people so they can easily keep their finger on the pulse of the nation – but QAnon? It's a radical conspiracy theory that believes in lizards ruling the world, pedophiles controlling the universities and media, and Donald Trump is apparently the one that will save the world. Without a clear and obvious agenda, this government is rambling and there's always external people willing to step in and assist – people such as QAnon adherents, the Institute of Public Affairs… and the mainstream media.

    Australia has a new ambassador… but not of the kind that we know of. The government has enlisted the media celebrity, Scott Cam, for ambassadorial services to promote trades among the youth of today. Very meritorious, of course, but where is the support program for this? Where are the apprenticeships? This Liberal Government has cut $3 billion from vocational education and national apprenticeships but, it's OK. Appointing a media celebrity is the best way to gloss over any problems.]]>    1828australian,libertarianism,politics,qanon,scott-camfalsefull    Impending Economic Disaster, A Compassionate Conservative And We Need To Talk About Albohttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/impending-economic-disaster-a-compassionate-conservative-and-we-need-to-talk-about-albo--19067261
    The “compassionate conservative" does seem like a contradiction of terms. And it is. You can virtually add “compassionate” to anything to make it seem better and so it is with a wide range of harsh and destructive neo-liberal social policies that the LNP Government wants to introduce. The Indue cashless welfare card, drug testing of social security recipients. Masking it as a process of compassion means the electorate will more readily swallow these programs that realign social capital to private interests, never to return to the public.

    Do we need to talk about Albo? Anthony Albanese has been the leader of the Labor Party for just over three months but, already, under his leadership, Labor has waved through tax cuts for high-income earners, embraced the coal industries in Newcastle and Queensland, offered support for the Government's religious discrimination act and now, is supporting the current levels of public funding for private schools. There are limits to how much an Opposition can mimic the government of the day: the Labor Party base is unhappy. How much is enough and is this a high risk strategy?]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/19067261Wed, 11 Sep 2019 12:00:17 +0000New PoliticsThere's a disaster facing the Australian economy and, unfortunately, the best the Liberal–National Government can do is blame the Labor Party – even though they haven't been in office since 2013 – or blame the Reserve Bank of Australia, or talk about...
    The “compassionate conservative" does seem like a contradiction of terms. And it is. You can virtually add “compassionate” to anything to make it seem better and so it is with a wide range of harsh and destructive neo-liberal social policies that the LNP Government wants to introduce. The Indue cashless welfare card, drug testing of social security recipients. Masking it as a process of compassion means the electorate will more readily swallow these programs that realign social capital to private interests, never to return to the public.

    Do we need to talk about Albo? Anthony Albanese has been the leader of the Labor Party for just over three months but, already, under his leadership, Labor has waved through tax cuts for high-income earners, embraced the coal industries in Newcastle and Queensland, offered support for the Government's religious discrimination act and now, is supporting the current levels of public funding for private schools. There are limits to how much an Opposition can mimic the government of the day: the Labor Party base is unhappy. How much is enough and is this a high risk strategy?]]>    1931australian-politicsfalsefull    Unfunded Empathy, Taking Sides, Diversionary Nuclear And S44 Solutionshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unfunded-empathy-taking-sides-diversionary-nuclear-and-s44-solutions--18736665
    Another stunning piece of political sloganeering reappeared, with the Prime Minister asking: “whose side are you on?". It's a loaded question, it's divisive, but it works a treat. It's what conservative politicians love to do – use seemingly innocuous statements that become something a long more sinister. "For all of us" [but not for them]. "We're on your side" [but not theirs].

    You are either with us, or against us. You have to choose.

    But with the government struggling for a post-election political narrative, diversions are needed to occupy our time, and deciding “whose side are you on” will take up months of discussion and political space.

    Did anyone mention nuclear power? Yes! Again and again, and the Minister for Energy has called for a review into the feasibility of nuclear power in Australia. The report from the review is due at the end of 2019, but we can tell you now what the conclusions will be. It should be a simple matter of a "cut and paste" job from those reviews performed in the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and, more recently, 2006. Nuclear power will never be delivered in Australia. It's unviable politically and economically.

    Nuclear and breast feeding? Is there a relationship? Yes, but only in political terms. Breast feeding, like nuclear power, is being used as a classic diversionary tactic. The Government wants the conversation to be about the issues that it either doesn't care about, or doesn't think will ever happen, so it can cover up its many misfortunes. So, nuclear and breast feeding it is. This will keep everyone preoccupied, while the Government tries to work out what it's doing.

    And we provide a constitutional solution to the Section 44 citizenship debacle. It won't save Josh Frydenberg with his High Court referral for now, because we'll have to hold a referendum first, but it's a worthy solution.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18736665Tue, 06 Aug 2019 06:00:19 +0000New PoliticsWe are very impressed to hear there is a new part of the political lexicon: unfunded empathy. It's the bureaucratic way of saying: "get %$knF!!" and we are just wondering how many focus groups were needed to test this one, because it's an absolute...
    Another stunning piece of political sloganeering reappeared, with the Prime Minister asking: “whose side are you on?". It's a loaded question, it's divisive, but it works a treat. It's what conservative politicians love to do – use seemingly innocuous statements that become something a long more sinister. "For all of us" [but not for them]. "We're on your side" [but not theirs].

    You are either with us, or against us. You have to choose.

    But with the government struggling for a post-election political narrative, diversions are needed to occupy our time, and deciding “whose side are you on” will take up months of discussion and political space.

    Did anyone mention nuclear power? Yes! Again and again, and the Minister for Energy has called for a review into the feasibility of nuclear power in Australia. The report from the review is due at the end of 2019, but we can tell you now what the conclusions will be. It should be a simple matter of a "cut and paste" job from those reviews performed in the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and, more recently, 2006. Nuclear power will never be delivered in Australia. It's unviable politically and economically.

    Nuclear and breast feeding? Is there a relationship? Yes, but only in political terms. Breast feeding, like nuclear power, is being used as a classic diversionary tactic. The Government wants the conversation to be about the issues that it either doesn't care about, or doesn't think will ever happen, so it can cover up its many misfortunes. So, nuclear and breast feeding it is. This will keep everyone preoccupied, while the Government tries to work out what it's doing.

    And we provide a constitutional solution to the Section 44 citizenship debacle. It won't save Josh Frydenberg with his High Court referral for now, because we'll have to hold a referendum first, but it's a worthy solution.]]>    2400auspodcast,auspol,politicsfalsefull    Bonus Episode: Why Democracy Is Broken (David Lewis interviews Kim Wingerei)https://www.spreaker.com/episode/bonus-episode-why-democracy-is-broken-david-lewis-interviews-kim-wingerei--18562225
    Kim Wingerei is an author and political commentator, and discusses his book with the co-host of New Politics, David Lewis. Why Democracy Is Broken: A Blueprint for Change offers directions and solutions that we all need to consider for a better democratic future and a political system that acts in the interests of all people.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18562225Tue, 16 Jul 2019 22:00:14 +0000New PoliticsDemocracy is being held hostage by the adversarial nature of party politics. The people deserve better and a democracy upgrade is long overdue. Is democracy broken? Do we need a blueprint for change? If it's broken, how do we fix it? Kim Wingerei...
    Kim Wingerei is an author and political commentator, and discusses his book with the co-host of New Politics, David Lewis. Why Democracy Is Broken: A Blueprint for Change offers directions and solutions that we all need to consider for a better democratic future and a political system that acts in the interests of all people.]]>    1046auspol,australian-politics,democracyfalsefull    Surprise Agendas, Mandates And Codes Of Conducthttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/surprise-agendas-mandates-and-codes-of-conduct--18448558
    Mandates? Do these still exist? Tony Abbott had a massive victory in 2013, but proceeded to implement all of the ideas he'd never spoken about with the electorate. And he suffered. Scott Morrison has a bare one (or two) seat majority and he already is saying he has a mandate to introduce his massive tax cut package, which provides huge benefits to high-income earners in the year 2025 and beyond. Is he correct? Again, depends on who you talk to.

    Leadership ballots by party memberships were considered to be quaint and oldie-worldie – why get the unwashed masses to vote on the leadership of the party? Because that's how democracy should work. Labor has just held its second rank-and-file leadership ballot, and it works just like a treat. The UK Conservatives have a similar leadership process, and it's time for the Liberal Party to join this new style of leadership selection.

    And why are so many people disappointed with Anthony Albanese? Steady on everyone: the job of the Leader of the Opposition just after a crushing election loss is the most thankless task in politics. He's only been there for one month. And there's 34 months before the next election.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18448558Wed, 03 Jul 2019 06:00:20 +0000New PoliticsSurprised by their surprise 2019 election victory, the Liberal-National Party is searching for an agenda to implement over the next term of Parliament, and trying to convince the public it's all about religious freedom, industrial relations, cutting...
    Mandates? Do these still exist? Tony Abbott had a massive victory in 2013, but proceeded to implement all of the ideas he'd never spoken about with the electorate. And he suffered. Scott Morrison has a bare one (or two) seat majority and he already is saying he has a mandate to introduce his massive tax cut package, which provides huge benefits to high-income earners in the year 2025 and beyond. Is he correct? Again, depends on who you talk to.

    Leadership ballots by party memberships were considered to be quaint and oldie-worldie – why get the unwashed masses to vote on the leadership of the party? Because that's how democracy should work. Labor has just held its second rank-and-file leadership ballot, and it works just like a treat. The UK Conservatives have a similar leadership process, and it's time for the Liberal Party to join this new style of leadership selection.

    And why are so many people disappointed with Anthony Albanese? Steady on everyone: the job of the Leader of the Opposition just after a crushing election loss is the most thankless task in politics. He's only been there for one month. And there's 34 months before the next election.]]>    2254auspol,australian-politics,politicsfalsefull    The 2019 Federal Election Wrap-Up, Politics For Sale, And Parliament 46https://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-2019-federal-election-wrap-up-politics-for-sale-and-parliament-46--18194871
    Was it Bill Shorten, or were there other factors in play? Elections are never won or lost on just the one issue, and we think it was a combination of media indifference to Labor, too many policy targets, and the small matter of $80 million worth of advertising racked up by Clive Palmer’s United Australia Party. The Liberal–National Party won the social media infowars – by a long shot – and it's an issue all parties will need to look at in future elections.

    The opinion polls were completely wrong, and it's a niche industry that will need to redefine itself if the public is to ever take polling seriously again. Labor has a new leader – Anthony Albanese – and we think he will be a fine match for Prime Minister Scott Morrison. We'll be providing more analysis post-election – that is, if we are allowed to report on these matters, and avoid scrutiny from the Australian Federal Police.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/18194871Thu, 06 Jun 2019 22:00:06 +0000New PoliticsApologies if our 2019 Election Wrap-Up special episode is late but we had to wait until every postal vote had been received and counted, and see if there was any sign of a late swing. Of which, there was none. The Liberal–National Party has been...
    Was it Bill Shorten, or were there other factors in play? Elections are never won or lost on just the one issue, and we think it was a combination of media indifference to Labor, too many policy targets, and the small matter of $80 million worth of advertising racked up by Clive Palmer’s United Australia Party. The Liberal–National Party won the social media infowars – by a long shot – and it's an issue all parties will need to look at in future elections.

    The opinion polls were completely wrong, and it's a niche industry that will need to redefine itself if the public is to ever take polling seriously again. Labor has a new leader – Anthony Albanese – and we think he will be a fine match for Prime Minister Scott Morrison. We'll be providing more analysis post-election – that is, if we are allowed to report on these matters, and avoid scrutiny from the Australian Federal Police.]]>    3012auspol,australian-politics,election-2019falsefull    Who Wins The 2019 Election Final Countdown?https://www.spreaker.com/episode/who-wins-the-2019-election-final-countdown--17925889
    And if it's not the polls, have a look at the betting markets: Labor is now paying Winx-like odds to win on Saturday night [and please, gamble responsibly; and vote responsibly too].

    Of course, anything can still happen in this final week of the campaign. Will the Murdoch empire manufacture some kind of scandal that is just believable enough to throw Labor completely off balance? Bring it on Rupert, it probably won't make too much difference. Using Bill Shorten’s mother to attack Bill Shorten was a low-road strategy, but we have to remember: when the conservatives can't win fair, they use every tactic available to them, legal or not.

    “Deserving” doesn't have a part to play in politics. If election results were based on worthiness, the LNP would not win one seat: it has been that bad as a government, even worse than the 2011 version of the NSW Labor Party – that was bad but this is worse. We still feel there's a re-alignment that needs to take place for the conservatives, and a long stint in opposition for some time should give them enough time to sort out the difference between the moderates and the Christian right, and present a fresh alternative to the electorate.

    Shock election results are quite rare in federal politics: the 2016 one-seat victory by Malcolm Turnbull was a surprise, but we have to go back to 1993 to find the last genuine boilover. Will there be a boilover and sweet surprises for Scott Morrison on Saturday? Unlikely. It's going to be a night for the red-shirts.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17925889Tue, 14 May 2019 22:00:21 +0000New PoliticsIt's the final week of Election 2019 and Labor is still in the best position to win the election. We're not saying anything controversial here: Labor has been ahead in the polls for almost three years, the Liberal–National Party is divided and has...
    And if it's not the polls, have a look at the betting markets: Labor is now paying Winx-like odds to win on Saturday night [and please, gamble responsibly; and vote responsibly too].

    Of course, anything can still happen in this final week of the campaign. Will the Murdoch empire manufacture some kind of scandal that is just believable enough to throw Labor completely off balance? Bring it on Rupert, it probably won't make too much difference. Using Bill Shorten’s mother to attack Bill Shorten was a low-road strategy, but we have to remember: when the conservatives can't win fair, they use every tactic available to them, legal or not.

    “Deserving” doesn't have a part to play in politics. If election results were based on worthiness, the LNP would not win one seat: it has been that bad as a government, even worse than the 2011 version of the NSW Labor Party – that was bad but this is worse. We still feel there's a re-alignment that needs to take place for the conservatives, and a long stint in opposition for some time should give them enough time to sort out the difference between the moderates and the Christian right, and present a fresh alternative to the electorate.

    Shock election results are quite rare in federal politics: the 2016 one-seat victory by Malcolm Turnbull was a surprise, but we have to go back to 1993 to find the last genuine boilover. Will there be a boilover and sweet surprises for Scott Morrison on Saturday? Unlikely. It's going to be a night for the red-shirts.]]>    2148auspol,ausvotes2019falsefull    A Most Exciting 2019 Election Campaign Continueshttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-most-exciting-2019-election-campaign-continues--17815748
    But silly media can't see beyond their noses: they look for stunts and ‘gotcha’ moments, following the Prime Minister on his quest to create the perfect media image. ‘How do I look when I skoll this beer?’. ‘Does my bum look big while shear this sheep?’. ‘Go Sharkies’ and ‘watch me while I boot this football through the soccer-league-union-AFL goalposts’. It’s becoming very tiresome.

    The media has always shrieked about a lack of substance in politics, but when they finally get it presented to them on a plate through Labor's solid selection of policy materials, they nit-pick, take aim, and retreat back to the banal wherever they can find it, usually following the Prime Minister into a bar. Has he got a drinking problem? Yes, of course. We've counted 56 news items where Scott Morrison has imbibed at the [name your location] hotel, bar, speakeasy or racecourse. He'll be pickled by the time this election is over.

    Water buy-backs have been the big scandal the government hopes will go away, but it just keeps coming back. Angus Taylor and Barnaby Joyce, as well as many other high-profile Liberal-National election candidates will be very well hidden during this election campaign and, just like the Marlboro man, Scott Morrison is being seen everywhere by himself. We still think he needs to go full-Putin, rip off the shirt and ride a horse bare-back. That will definitely rake in the votes.

    The polls are tightening and could the Liberal-National Coalition just manage to win government again? We don't think so: children aren't usually rewarded for bad behaviour, and nor should governments, but is there something under the radar that we keep missing? We'll find out soon enough.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17815748Thu, 02 May 2019 22:00:07 +0000New PoliticsContrary to most perceptions from the media about a ‘boring’ campaign, we think the 2019 election is one of the most exciting ever. Why? Because it's a ‘change’ election, where there's a possibility that it could realign conservative parties forever...
    But silly media can't see beyond their noses: they look for stunts and ‘gotcha’ moments, following the Prime Minister on his quest to create the perfect media image. ‘How do I look when I skoll this beer?’. ‘Does my bum look big while shear this sheep?’. ‘Go Sharkies’ and ‘watch me while I boot this football through the soccer-league-union-AFL goalposts’. It’s becoming very tiresome.

    The media has always shrieked about a lack of substance in politics, but when they finally get it presented to them on a plate through Labor's solid selection of policy materials, they nit-pick, take aim, and retreat back to the banal wherever they can find it, usually following the Prime Minister into a bar. Has he got a drinking problem? Yes, of course. We've counted 56 news items where Scott Morrison has imbibed at the [name your location] hotel, bar, speakeasy or racecourse. He'll be pickled by the time this election is over.

    Water buy-backs have been the big scandal the government hopes will go away, but it just keeps coming back. Angus Taylor and Barnaby Joyce, as well as many other high-profile Liberal-National election candidates will be very well hidden during this election campaign and, just like the Marlboro man, Scott Morrison is being seen everywhere by himself. We still think he needs to go full-Putin, rip off the shirt and ride a horse bare-back. That will definitely rake in the votes.

    The polls are tightening and could the Liberal-National Coalition just manage to win government again? We don't think so: children aren't usually rewarded for bad behaviour, and nor should governments, but is there something under the radar that we keep missing? We'll find out soon enough.]]>    2101auspol,auspol2019,ausvotes,ausvotes2019falsefull    Bonus Episode: Sweet Election Victories From The 1990shttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/bonus-episode-sweet-election-victories-from-the-1990s--17729692
    Of course! The similarities between UK Labour leader Neil Kinnock in 1992 and Bill Shorten in 2019 are striking. Like Shorten, Kinnock had been ahead in the polls for almost three years and everyone was backing Labour to win. And he also faced attacks from the Murdoch-backed media, culminating in the infamous and grammatically-challenged newspaper headline: "It’s The Sun Wot Won It".

    The election systems are slightly different in the two countries: Australia has two-party preferred and compulsory voting; the UK has first-past-the-post and voluntary voting. Shorten is still favoured to win here, but we think he'd be looking at the 1992 UK election campaign for all the things to avoid; the biggest issue would be hubris and assuming victory just falls into the leader’s lap.

    Scott Morrison will be trying to emulate Paul Keating’s feat in 1993 of winning the unwinnable election. Yes, in a two-horse race, anything is possible, but Morrison is not Paul Keating, he leads a very damaged Coalition, and is papering over all forms of corruption (alleged). So we still think it's very very unlikely.

    But don't forget the big clichés: the only poll that matters is on election day, and it's not over until it's over.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17729692Wed, 24 Apr 2019 05:45:16 +0000New PoliticsThe 2019 election is on, but to look forward, we always need to look back, and we go far back into the archives to look at the events of elections from 1992 and 1993. But that's over 25 years ago: are age-old events from history still relevant today?...
    Of course! The similarities between UK Labour leader Neil Kinnock in 1992 and Bill Shorten in 2019 are striking. Like Shorten, Kinnock had been ahead in the polls for almost three years and everyone was backing Labour to win. And he also faced attacks from the Murdoch-backed media, culminating in the infamous and grammatically-challenged newspaper headline: "It’s The Sun Wot Won It".

    The election systems are slightly different in the two countries: Australia has two-party preferred and compulsory voting; the UK has first-past-the-post and voluntary voting. Shorten is still favoured to win here, but we think he'd be looking at the 1992 UK election campaign for all the things to avoid; the biggest issue would be hubris and assuming victory just falls into the leader’s lap.

    Scott Morrison will be trying to emulate Paul Keating’s feat in 1993 of winning the unwinnable election. Yes, in a two-horse race, anything is possible, but Morrison is not Paul Keating, he leads a very damaged Coalition, and is papering over all forms of corruption (alleged). So we still think it's very very unlikely.

    But don't forget the big clichés: the only poll that matters is on election day, and it's not over until it's over.]]>    752auspol,auspol2019,australia-politics,ausvotes2019,politics-podcastfalsefull    Budget 2019, The End Of A Zany Parliament And Waiting For An Electionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/budget-2019-the-end-of-a-zany-parliament-and-waiting-for-an-election--17569761
    The 45th Parliament was action-packed – two different Prime Ministers, mass resignations due to the citizenship debacle, several Super Saturday by-elections, and the government ended up finding itself plunged into minority. For the fine aficionados of politics, it's great news. But it's terrible news for the electorate: they crave stability and all they're getting is political navel gazing and opportunism. It's simply not good enough.

    Waiting for the 2019 election to be announced is worse than Waiting for Godot. And just like Estragon, Scott Morrison is hoping to catch Labor with its pants down, but we don't think that's going to happen. The kitchen sink has been thrown at Bill Shorten and there's not much more that can be thrown at him. The Coalition is still behind in the polls and the last date to hold the election is May 18. Or is it? May 25 is now seriously considered an option, but the electorate wants an election now.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17569761Mon, 08 Apr 2019 22:00:07 +0000New PoliticsConventional wisdom suggests there are two types of Budgets: one that's in surplus, and one that's in deficit. But there's also the Budget type that is totally political, and we've got a feeling Josh Frydenberg's first (and probably final) Budget is...
    The 45th Parliament was action-packed – two different Prime Ministers, mass resignations due to the citizenship debacle, several Super Saturday by-elections, and the government ended up finding itself plunged into minority. For the fine aficionados of politics, it's great news. But it's terrible news for the electorate: they crave stability and all they're getting is political navel gazing and opportunism. It's simply not good enough.

    Waiting for the 2019 election to be announced is worse than Waiting for Godot. And just like Estragon, Scott Morrison is hoping to catch Labor with its pants down, but we don't think that's going to happen. The kitchen sink has been thrown at Bill Shorten and there's not much more that can be thrown at him. The Coalition is still behind in the polls and the last date to hold the election is May 18. Or is it? May 25 is now seriously considered an option, but the electorate wants an election now.]]>    2075auspol,australianpolitics,newspollfalsefull    NSW Election Wrap, Morrison’s Racism And The Big Issues Affecting Election 2019https://www.spreaker.com/episode/nsw-election-wrap-morrison-s-racism-and-the-big-issues-affecting-election-2019--17436875
    But, there's casual racism and in-your-face racism, and we think our Prime Minister and Home Affairs Minister engage in racism as often as they have breakfast. Luckily for them, the pusillanimous media never calls them out. In the wake of the Christchurch killings, Scott Morrison floundered, and something from 2010 came back to bite him. It seems that in modern Australia, it's more offensive to accuse someone of racism, than the racist act itself. We think it's OK to use the 'R' word, and we'll continue to call out racism wherever we see it.

    As we move closer to the 2019 federal election, there's only one more shot in the locker for the Liberal-National Party: the 2019 Budget. Will it make any difference to their electoral chances? Probably not. We're very sure the electorate is keen to give the LNP a lesson they will remember for a long time, and not even the slender victory in the NSW Election for their NSW counterparts will make much of a difference either. Their day of reckoning is coming soon.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17436875Tue, 26 Mar 2019 01:05:03 +0000New PoliticsThe NSW Election is all over, and the Coalition Government has been returned for a third term. But is it the landslide victory the mainstream media is claiming? No, of course not: they only just scraped in by one seat, and the National Party lost...
    But, there's casual racism and in-your-face racism, and we think our Prime Minister and Home Affairs Minister engage in racism as often as they have breakfast. Luckily for them, the pusillanimous media never calls them out. In the wake of the Christchurch killings, Scott Morrison floundered, and something from 2010 came back to bite him. It seems that in modern Australia, it's more offensive to accuse someone of racism, than the racist act itself. We think it's OK to use the 'R' word, and we'll continue to call out racism wherever we see it.

    As we move closer to the 2019 federal election, there's only one more shot in the locker for the Liberal-National Party: the 2019 Budget. Will it make any difference to their electoral chances? Probably not. We're very sure the electorate is keen to give the LNP a lesson they will remember for a long time, and not even the slender victory in the NSW Election for their NSW counterparts will make much of a difference either. Their day of reckoning is coming soon.]]>    2227auspol,newpoliticsfalsefull    Corruption, The Cardinal And The Fine Art Of Lyinghttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/corruption-the-cardinal-and-the-fine-art-of-lying--17293648
    But there's more: government Ministers are resigning and retiring, with rumours of more to follow. It's hard to shake the perception that the ship is sinking and MPs are bailing out. The polls certainly suggest that, with 164 losing polls for the LNP since August 2016, and the latest Newspoll stuck at 46 per cent. That's not a good look either.

    Child sexual assault, one would assume, is a serious criminal charge, and George Pell has been found guilty. So why is most of the conservative media claiming his innocence? He's now a convicted paedophile. The answer is: Rupert Murdoch. As usual.

    And the art of lying in politics. Lies are becoming bigger, but not better. More egregious and more frequent. And with each egregious lie, another nail is hammered into the coffin of democracy, even though it's becoming harder to conceal the political lie, thanks to the immediacy of the internet and social media.

    Of course, we sign off with our usual message, which has now become a pro forma: We still think the Government will suffer a major defeat at the next election.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17293648Tue, 12 Mar 2019 01:30:06 +0000New PoliticsThere is so much corruption and unethical behaviour by this federal Government that it's hard to know where to begin: Helloworld, Paladin, Parakeelia, Ministers refusing to provide evidence to the Australian Federal Police… it's not a good look....
    But there's more: government Ministers are resigning and retiring, with rumours of more to follow. It's hard to shake the perception that the ship is sinking and MPs are bailing out. The polls certainly suggest that, with 164 losing polls for the LNP since August 2016, and the latest Newspoll stuck at 46 per cent. That's not a good look either.

    Child sexual assault, one would assume, is a serious criminal charge, and George Pell has been found guilty. So why is most of the conservative media claiming his innocence? He's now a convicted paedophile. The answer is: Rupert Murdoch. As usual.

    And the art of lying in politics. Lies are becoming bigger, but not better. More egregious and more frequent. And with each egregious lie, another nail is hammered into the coffin of democracy, even though it's becoming harder to conceal the political lie, thanks to the immediacy of the internet and social media.

    Of course, we sign off with our usual message, which has now become a pro forma: We still think the Government will suffer a major defeat at the next election.]]>    21842019-federal-election,auspol,australian-politicsfalsefull    Unhappy Holidays And Apocalypse 2019https://www.spreaker.com/episode/unhappy-holidays-and-apocalypse-2019--17001996
    Climate change was a big factor in the 2018 by-elections and we think this will continue in 2019, with the political party doing the least about the environment, to be punished the most. In our humble opinion…

    It was all happening: Captain Cook and the culture wars, another Captain’s call in the seat of Gilmore, a franking credits farce, and a spate of ministerial resignations. Can they see the writing on the wall for the Liberal Party, or do they really want to spend more time with their families?

    We also focus on the Banking Royal Commission, the one the Liberal Party voted against 26 times. It's a net negative for the the Government and we can see why they tried to deflect all blame for the Royal Commission onto the Labor Party. But will it wash with the public? That's very unlikely, there's only a certain amount of misspoken mistruths the electorate can handle. We still think the Government will suffer a major defeat at the next election.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/17001996Sun, 10 Feb 2019 21:30:15 +0000New PoliticsJanuary is usually a quiet time in politics but not this year: there are two big elections to be won (NSW and federal elections) and all sides of politics are vying for poll position. Every year is different but this year has been more different than...
    Climate change was a big factor in the 2018 by-elections and we think this will continue in 2019, with the political party doing the least about the environment, to be punished the most. In our humble opinion…

    It was all happening: Captain Cook and the culture wars, another Captain’s call in the seat of Gilmore, a franking credits farce, and a spate of ministerial resignations. Can they see the writing on the wall for the Liberal Party, or do they really want to spend more time with their families?

    We also focus on the Banking Royal Commission, the one the Liberal Party voted against 26 times. It's a net negative for the the Government and we can see why they tried to deflect all blame for the Royal Commission onto the Labor Party. But will it wash with the public? That's very unlikely, there's only a certain amount of misspoken mistruths the electorate can handle. We still think the Government will suffer a major defeat at the next election.]]>    2654abcnews24,auspol,insidersfalsefull    A Victorian Landslide, Men Behaving Badly And Government Survivalhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-victorian-landslide-men-behaving-badly-and-government-survival--16396670
    Leaders are being changed at the drop of a hat or, in the case of the NSW Labor leader, Luke Foley, the dropping of pants. Another MP caught up in sexual harassment, and he's had to resign from his position. Alcohol, journalists and politicians is not a very good mix, but why do MPs of all persuasions decide it's OK to harass and molest women in politics? What type of community standards are set when conservative Senators make lewd comments about women in parliament? It's time they shut-up, zipped up their pants and kept their fingers to themselves.

    It's the question on everyone's lips: will this government last the full term? It's impractical to call the election now, so we think the federal election will be held in early March or May 2019. But this government is divided, has little in the way of an agenda, and is prepared to say and do anything to win any argument and score political points. It's a disaster for the Liberal/National Party, and the leadership changes, a lack of a clear agenda, as well as its general nastiness, could consign it to the dustbin – and possibly worse – in the first half of 2019.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16396670Wed, 05 Dec 2018 23:45:12 +0000New PoliticsAnother wipeout for the Liberal Party in the southern state of Victoria means their federal counterparts need to watch out, with their election due by May 2019. Was Victoria a win of the good over the bad? No, it shows winning election campaigns can...
    Leaders are being changed at the drop of a hat or, in the case of the NSW Labor leader, Luke Foley, the dropping of pants. Another MP caught up in sexual harassment, and he's had to resign from his position. Alcohol, journalists and politicians is not a very good mix, but why do MPs of all persuasions decide it's OK to harass and molest women in politics? What type of community standards are set when conservative Senators make lewd comments about women in parliament? It's time they shut-up, zipped up their pants and kept their fingers to themselves.

    It's the question on everyone's lips: will this government last the full term? It's impractical to call the election now, so we think the federal election will be held in early March or May 2019. But this government is divided, has little in the way of an agenda, and is prepared to say and do anything to win any argument and score political points. It's a disaster for the Liberal/National Party, and the leadership changes, a lack of a clear agenda, as well as its general nastiness, could consign it to the dustbin – and possibly worse – in the first half of 2019.]]>    2258auspol,insiders,qtfalsefull    Wentworth History In The Making, The Politics Of Asylum Seekers And Selling A Prime Ministerhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/wentworth-history-in-the-making-the-politics-of-asylum-seekers-and-selling-a-prime-minister--16146315
    The LNP is floundering, although they'll keep beating the drum of their old favourite – asylum seekers and boat arrivals. After making noises during the Wentworth by-election about releasing children from Nauru and Manus Island, they've slammed the door shut again. But is asylum seeking and immigration such an electoral advantage for the conservatives? Have the sands shifted to the left of where the LNP is positioning itself? We think so and feel the public has had enough.

    And how can the public image of a Prime Minister be sold successfully to the electorate, especially when their polling is in negativeland, their party is on the nose, the policy cupboard is bare and there's nothing positive to offer? Is driving a bus all the way around Queensland one part of the solution? We don't have the answers: it's a very very tough question.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/16146315Tue, 06 Nov 2018 05:15:14 +0000New PoliticsWe had history in the making in the seat of Wentworth, a by-election thrashing of the Liberals following the resignation of Malcolm Turnbull, and we now have another independent on the crossbenches – come on down, Kerryn Phelps. The LNP has slipped...
    The LNP is floundering, although they'll keep beating the drum of their old favourite – asylum seekers and boat arrivals. After making noises during the Wentworth by-election about releasing children from Nauru and Manus Island, they've slammed the door shut again. But is asylum seeking and immigration such an electoral advantage for the conservatives? Have the sands shifted to the left of where the LNP is positioning itself? We think so and feel the public has had enough.

    And how can the public image of a Prime Minister be sold successfully to the electorate, especially when their polling is in negativeland, their party is on the nose, the policy cupboard is bare and there's nothing positive to offer? Is driving a bus all the way around Queensland one part of the solution? We don't have the answers: it's a very very tough question.]]>    1979abcnews24,auspol,insiders,thedrumfalsefull    Trouble Brewing For The Liberals And Feeling The Love Of A New PMhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trouble-brewing-for-the-liberals-and-feeling-the-love-of-a-new-pm--15826383https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15826383Fri, 28 Sep 2018 03:00:06 +0000New PoliticsThe Liberal Party is facing challenges in three big elections – Victoria, NSW and federal – with a few other challenges in the Wentworth by-election. But the biggest issue is money – they haven't got enough to run these elections and, with their...2178abcnews24,auspolfalsefullThe Seven Days Of Madness In Canberrahttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-seven-days-of-madness-in-canberra--15606323
    Malcolm Turnbull is no longer the Prime Minister. It was the forces led by Tony Abbott and the extreme right wing of the Liberal Party that created the momentum to install their Manchurian Candidate, Peter Dutton. But the final day of Malcolm Turnbull was his best: running rings about his challengers, using brilliant strategy and tactics to make sure Dutton never became Prime Minister.

    It's just a pity it took three years for Turnbull to play strategically and, by this time, it was too late. His demise was all of his own work. If only he behaved like a real Prime Minister. If only…

    We now have a new Prime Minister, Scott Morrison. Hold back your excitement.

    We dissect the seven days of madness in Canberra; how this leadership spill compares with other spills in Australia's history; and, what the future holds for the Liberal Party, the new Prime Minister, and Australian politics.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15606323Thu, 30 Aug 2018 22:00:06 +0000New PoliticsIt's been dubbed the week of madness in Canberra, but it was also a week of gross incompetence and a fine example of the poor political management that has encompassed the Liberal National Party since it formed government in 2013. Why turn up to a...
    Malcolm Turnbull is no longer the Prime Minister. It was the forces led by Tony Abbott and the extreme right wing of the Liberal Party that created the momentum to install their Manchurian Candidate, Peter Dutton. But the final day of Malcolm Turnbull was his best: running rings about his challengers, using brilliant strategy and tactics to make sure Dutton never became Prime Minister.

    It's just a pity it took three years for Turnbull to play strategically and, by this time, it was too late. His demise was all of his own work. If only he behaved like a real Prime Minister. If only…

    We now have a new Prime Minister, Scott Morrison. Hold back your excitement.

    We dissect the seven days of madness in Canberra; how this leadership spill compares with other spills in Australia's history; and, what the future holds for the Liberal Party, the new Prime Minister, and Australian politics.]]>    2851abc730,abcnews24,auspol,insidersfalsefull    A Super Saturday And The Big Media Failhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-super-saturday-and-the-big-media-fail--15406388
    We discuss in fine detail, the Super Saturday byelections and outline how and why Malcolm Turnbull is a poor election campaigner; the #KillBill campaign and how the Liberals turned it into Pulp Fiction; and what the ramifications are for both parties for the next election, which increasingly looks likely to be held in May 2019.

    Hosted by Eddy Jokovich and David Lewis.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15406388Thu, 02 Aug 2018 22:00:05 +0000New PoliticsSuper Saturday: it sounds so American, but we had it all in our own backyard – Perth, Fremantle, Mayo, Braddon and Longman. A campaign that started with all the pressure on Bill Shorten completely swung around and returned all the pressure onto...
    We discuss in fine detail, the Super Saturday byelections and outline how and why Malcolm Turnbull is a poor election campaigner; the #KillBill campaign and how the Liberals turned it into Pulp Fiction; and what the ramifications are for both parties for the next election, which increasingly looks likely to be held in May 2019.

    Hosted by Eddy Jokovich and David Lewis.]]>    2020abc730,abcnews24,auspol,insidersfalsefull    Byelections, A Clash Of Western Civilisation And The ABC Of Attacking The Public Broadcasterhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/byelections-a-clash-of-western-civilisation-and-the-abc-of-attacking-the-public-broadcaster--15099809
    The Institute of Public Affairs: an insidious influence on politics, or part of the broad church of parliament? No, we think it's insidious and ruining democracy in Australia. It's the IPA and others, such as the Ramsey Centre of Western Civilisation, that are causing trouble, now wanting to influence Australian universities.

    And the old punching-bag of conservatives, the ABC, is in the firing line. The Liberals want to privatise the ABC – yes, their Council voted for this – yet, federal cabinet is denying this to be the case. But who said "no cuts to the ABC", just before he cut $254 million from their budget? Yes, former Liberal Prime Minister, Tony Abbott. Can the Liberals be trusted with the ABC? No, we don't think so.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/15099809Thu, 21 Jun 2018 23:00:06 +0000New PoliticsFive federal byelections, and we think the more things change, the more they will stay the same. We suggest there will be no change in the numbers on the floor, but politics is so unpredictable in this day and age, so who knows? The Institute of...
    The Institute of Public Affairs: an insidious influence on politics, or part of the broad church of parliament? No, we think it's insidious and ruining democracy in Australia. It's the IPA and others, such as the Ramsey Centre of Western Civilisation, that are causing trouble, now wanting to influence Australian universities.

    And the old punching-bag of conservatives, the ABC, is in the firing line. The Liberals want to privatise the ABC – yes, their Council voted for this – yet, federal cabinet is denying this to be the case. But who said "no cuts to the ABC", just before he cut $254 million from their budget? Yes, former Liberal Prime Minister, Tony Abbott. Can the Liberals be trusted with the ABC? No, we don't think so.]]>    2341abc730,abcnews24,auspol,insidersfalsefull    A Failing Budget, Gaza Disaster And The Spectre Of An Early Electionhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-failing-budget-gaza-disaster-and-the-spectre-of-an-early-election--14899209
    Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, scores of Palestinians have been killed and injured by the Israeli army at the border of the Gaza Strip, and the UN Human Rights Council voted to hold an investigation into the incident – we do need to find out. But why did Australia (along with the US) vote against the resolution to hold an inquiry?

    Will the Australian electorate go to the polls in 2018? They will – either through a series of five byelections (on July 28), or a general election – to be held in August or November 2018 – according to our expect assessment. Listen to find out why.]]>    https://api.spreaker.com/episode/14899209Mon, 28 May 2018 02:00:06 +0000New PoliticsThe 2018 Budget was a classic ‘here today, gone tomorrow’ Budget. Who remembers any of the key points, aside from ‘personal tax cut’, and ‘surplus’? (** Read the fine print: tax cuts in seven years). Perhaps that was the main and only message....
    Meanwhile, on the other side of the world, scores of Palestinians have been killed and injured by the Israeli army at the border of the Gaza Strip, and the UN Human Rights Council voted to hold an investigation into the incident – we do need to find out. But why did Australia (along with the US) vote against the resolution to hold an inquiry?

    Will the Australian electorate go to the polls in 2018? They will – either through a series of five byelections (on July 28), or a general election – to be held in August or November 2018 – according to our expect assessment. Listen to find out why.]]>    2494auspol,budget2018,insiders,qanda,qtfalsefull