

Australian Politics
The Guardian
Guardian Australia's political editor Tom McIlroy and team at Parliament House examine what’s happening in Australian politics and why it matters to you
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 28, 2024 • 26min
Guardian Essential report: is calling Peter Dutton divisive playing into his political strategy
Peter Lewis, a representative from Essential Media, joins the discussion about Peter Dutton's controversial stance on Gaza refugees. The conversation reveals mixed public opinions on Dutton's divisive tactics for political leverage. Lewis highlights shifting sentiments on immigration linked to economic fears and the growing political risks related to workers' rights. The dialogue also underscores the Labor party's struggles amidst changing political tides and the need for a narrative that fosters unity over division.

Aug 23, 2024 • 33min
Andrew Bragg on housing, the ‘poison’ of Nimbyism, and the NSW Liberal council election debacle
In this engaging discussion, Andrew Bragg, a New South Wales Liberal senator, tackles the pressing housing crisis in Australia. He critiques the Coalition's housing policies and the pitfalls of Nimbyism, which hinder development. Bragg underscores the need for innovative solutions and increased private sector involvement to address supply shortages. The conversation also reveals the NSW Liberals' electoral missteps, highlighting challenges in party dynamics and leadership as they prepare for future elections. A captivating look into Australian politics!

Aug 16, 2024 • 39min
Jim Chalmers on getting cost of living relief right and Dutton’s divisiveness – Australian Politics podcast
Jim Chalmers, the Treasurer of Australia, shares insights on the government's economic track record and the challenges of inflation. He highlights the impact of rising petrol prices and rents on living costs. Chalmers discusses ongoing initiatives for energy relief and housing legislation, emphasizing the need for political collaboration. He examines the divisive tactics of the opposition leader and calls for a more unifying approach. The conversation also touches on the complexities of gauging public sentiment amid economic struggles.

Aug 14, 2024 • 26min
Guardian Essential report: have voters lost faith in their government?
Join Paul Karp, chief political correspondent, and Peter Lewis from Essential Media as they tackle the troubling decline in public trust towards the government. They discuss voter ambivalence towards Indigenous policies stemming from the 'Close the Gap' report and the challenges Indigenous leaders face. The conversation shifts to economic pessimism affecting citizen outlook, especially with rising living costs. They highlight the crucial need for civic engagement in democracy and explore how technology can empower citizens to rebuild faith in their government.

Aug 5, 2024 • 40min
The next steps after an ‘extraordinary’ apology
Recently, the Northern Territory’s police commissioner, Michael Murphy, issued an apology to the Indigenous people of his jurisdiction, declaring police have favoured protecting ‘settlers’ over Aboriginal people and he is ‘deeply sorry for the hurt and injustices’ this has caused them over more than a century. Murphy speaks to Guardian Australia’s political editor, Karen Middleton, on the reasons behind the apology and the changes he plans to make to the police force

Aug 2, 2024 • 36min
George Brandis on the politics of creating and dissolving ministries
George Brandis, a former attorney general, shares his expertise on the intricate relationships between political accountability and governmental structure. He argues for ASIO's accountability to the attorney general, emphasizing the significance of oversight in national security. The discussion delves into the creation of the Department of Home Affairs, highlighting the political conflicts and historical events that shaped immigration policies. Brandis also addresses the complexities of integrating arts within government portfolios, advocating for strategic alignment with national interests.

Jul 31, 2024 • 27min
Guardian Essential report: would Australians vote for Donald Trump?
Guardian Australia’s political reporter and politics live blogger, Amy Remeikis, speaks to Peter Lewis from Essential Media about the increased favourability of both Donald Trump and Peter Dutton among Australian voters. They also discuss the continued support for unions, despite declining membership and the recent furore over the CFMEU

Jul 26, 2024 • 41min
Joe Hockey on what a new US president could mean for Australia
Guardian Australia’s political editor Karen Middleton talks with Joe Hockey, former federal minister and ambassador to Washington, and now global president and founder of US-based consulting firm Bondi Partners. Hockey talks about what a Kamala Harris victory in the US election would mean for Australia, and whether there are upsides if Donald Trump returns for a second term. A second Trump presidency would send Australia down a dark economic path. Here’s how it might play out | Greg Jericho

Jul 19, 2024 • 40min
Clare O’Neil on why democracy is more important than ever
Minister for home affairs and cyber security Clare O’Neil speaks with Guardian Australia’s political editor Karen Middleton about the allegations against the CFMEU. Following the release of a report by the strengthening democracy taskforce this week, O’Neil argues that democracy is a way to resolve our differences and the assassination attempt on Trump is an attack on democracy itself

Jul 17, 2024 • 27min
Guardian Essential report: should democracy be more like community sport?
Guardian Australia’s politics live blogger Amy Remeikis talks to Peter Lewis from Essential Media about Australian voter dissatisfaction in the political system and politicians; the split between older and younger voters; and whether democracy could learn something from community sport


