7am

Emily Maitlis, investigative journalist and host of The News Agents, reflects on her landmark interview with Prince Andrew and her continuing coverage of the Epstein files. She discusses why probes stalled, how revelations are unsettling politicians and royals, and what shifting US-Europe dynamics mean for the future world order.

Nick McKenzie, investigative reporter known for exposing corruption and organised crime in construction, discusses the scale of criminal infiltration into the CFMEU. He outlines shocking findings from an inquiry, explains why politically sensitive sections were deleted, and raises urgent questions about government awareness and accountability.

Morgan Harrington, postdoctoral research manager at the Australia Institute who studies labour mobility and exploitation, digs into the PALM scheme. She outlines its scale across agriculture, meat, hospitality and aged care. She recounts cramped, unsafe employer housing, employer-tied visas that trap workers, and why many choose precarious freedom over staying.

Ariel Bogle, journalist and author who reports on policing and so‑called less‑lethal weapons. She discusses the rise of pepper spray, rubber bullets and flashbangs at protests. She recounts injuries from crowd weapons and traces where police get these tools. She explains legal and training gaps, trends in force use, and how intensified policing affects protest participation.

Samantha Maiden, political editor at news.com.au, offers sharp analysis of federal party turmoil. She recounts the rapid leadership change and who backed Angus Taylor. Short takes cover Taylor’s promised discipline, his policy focus on immigration and tax, comparisons with Peter Dutton, and whether this reset strengthens the Coalition.

Amy Remeikis, contributing editor at The New Daily and political journalist, breaks down a sudden Liberal leadership challenge. She walks through the 24-hour spill, shadow cabinet resignations, and the role of gender in Ley’s ousting. She weighs Angus Taylor’s chances and whether a leadership swap can salvage the party’s identity and Coalition tensions.

Charlie Murphy, activist with Pride in Protest focused on trans rights and direct action, and Peter Murphy, 78er with Protect Mardi Gras aiming to stabilise the parade’s finances and inclusivity. They clash over who controls Mardi Gras, the role of political messaging, police and sponsor participation, and whether activism or event stability should lead the parade’s future.

Sebastien Lai, son of jailed media tycoon Jimmy Lai and an activist in exile, recounts his father’s rise from refugee to Apple Daily founder. He discusses the paper’s defiant journalism. He describes the national security law, repeated arrests, the 20-year sentence and harsh prison conditions. He speaks about international reactions and his fight from the UK for his father’s release.

Timothy Roberts, president of the New South Wales Council for Civil Liberties and longtime rights advocate, discusses NSW protest laws and the use of “major event” powers. He talks about the Supreme Court challenge, how powers shift discretion to police, and the wider national trend of restrictions on assembly. Short, urgent takes on how these changes could reshape public protest.

Karen Middleton, press gallery journalist and political commentator, breaks down the Nationals-Liberals collapse and rapid reunion. She outlines the reconciliation terms and who gained from the deal. She probes whether promises of lasting unity are believable and the consequences for Sussan Ley’s leadership and party credibility.