7am

In this discussion, Ebony Bennett, the Deputy Director at The Australia Institute, delves into Australia's rising gun ownership rates despite historic reforms post-Port Arthur. She outlines the gaps in current firearm policies and critiques the Coalition's resistance against Labor's proposed reforms. Bennett also highlights the impact of political lobbying on gun laws and the necessity of a national firearms registry for public safety. With four million legal guns in circulation, the conversation raises important questions about accountability and reform.

Rex Patrick, a former South Australian senator and submariner, dives into the secretive AUKUS Command established by the Australian Federal Police. He reveals alarming details about the command's role in surveilling protests and managing dissent, alongside plans for armed response. With funding of about $200 million, they are building up capabilities, including drones and munitions. Patrick highlights the clash between government secrecy and the public's right to protest, raising critical questions about accountability and transparency in the AUKUS deal.

Karen Barlow, Chief Political Correspondent for The Saturday Paper, dives into the heated debate surrounding the Adelaide Writers’ Week and the fallout over Khaled Sabsabi's Venice Biennale appointment. She discusses the political pressures that led to his initial removal and the rapid reversal that followed public outcry. Barlow highlights issues of artistic freedom, national security's role in arts controversies, and the implications of these events on Australia's cultural landscape, revealing the tensions between politics and creativity.

Hannah Ferguson, CEO of Cheek Media and host of the Big Small Talk podcast, dives into the contentious debate over hate speech laws following a recent terror attack. She critiques the rushed legislation, highlighting its lack of thorough consultation and bipartisan support. Ferguson discusses political divisions, the fallout within Australia's arts community, and the chilling effects of censorship, especially surrounding cultural programming decisions. She calls for a more nuanced public discourse while supporting solidarity actions against censorship.

Shashank Joshi, Defence editor at The Economist and an international security analyst, dives into Donald Trump's controversial interest in Greenland. He questions the true motives behind Trump's national security claims, suggesting they may stem from resource acquisition and outdated manifest destiny ideas. Joshi discusses the implications for NATO trust and how this could alter global dynamics, particularly concerning Russia and China. As diplomatic tensions rise, he assesses the potential fallout from Trump's bold actions.

Trita Parsi, an Iranian-born analyst and executive vice president of the Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, shares insights on the volatile situation in Iran. He discusses the dramatic impact of widespread protests, worsened by government crackdowns and internet blackouts. Parsi examines Trump's provocative rhetoric and potential U.S. military responses, along with Iran's capacity to retaliate. He emphasizes the regime's weakened state yet notes its historical resilience amidst turmoil, raising questions about future stability in the region.

In this discussion, journalist Helen Karakulak sheds light on the explosive cancellation of Adelaide Writers' Week after the removal of Palestinian author Randa Abdel-Fattah. She analyzes the massive backlash from over 100 writers who boycotted the event, the political influences surrounding the festival, and the implications for the arts in South Australia. Helen also highlights Premier Malinauskas's role and the troubling wave of resignations, raising urgent questions about free speech and the future of literary events in the region.

Sandra, a Venezuelan journalist living abroad, shares her insights on the dire state of Venezuela following the capture of Nicolas Maduro. She discusses the chilling effects of political repression, with citizens living in fear of arrest for dissent. The conversation delves into Maduro's legacy, the erosion of democracy under his rule, and the impact of the upcoming 2024 election. Sandra also reflects on the risky reality for journalists and the personal toll it takes on her and her family, highlighting the complex dynamics facing the Venezuelan diaspora.

Nicole Johnston, a veteran foreign correspondent with nearly two decades of experience across diverse global hotspots, joins Daniel James to share her captivating journey. She recounts living in Gaza during conflicts and the dramatic moments of Egypt’s military coup. Nicole reflects on the emotional Gilad Shalit prisoner swap and her immersive year in China covering geopolitics. With a passion for international stories, she aims to bring unique insights to Australian listeners while embracing life beyond the newsroom.

Karen Middleton, a press gallery journalist with deep insights into federal politics, dives into Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's surprising shift to announce a royal commission following the Bondi terror attack. She discusses the scope and timeline of the inquiry, led by former High Court justice Virginia Bell, and the mixed reactions from the Jewish community. Middleton also highlights the potential political fallout and warns of the risks of deepening societal divisions, stressing the importance of navigating strong emotions while ensuring accountability.