Radio National Breakfast

Phil Kornbluth, a global helium consultant and president of Kornbluth Helium Consulting, explains why disruptions in the Middle East threaten the helium supply. He outlines Qatar’s outsized role, how a pre-crisis surplus masks looming shortages, and why most helium is vital for MRI machines, semiconductors and industrial uses.

Julie Inman-Grant, eSafety Commissioner who leads Australia’s online safety regulator, discusses AI companion chatbots and risks to children. She outlines how many kids use these services and how some form intense attachments. She highlights gaps in age checks, exposure to sexual content, and missing safeguards for self-harm and eating-disorder material.

Leah Blythe, Liberal senator and shadow assistant minister; Peter Malinauskas, South Australian premier; David Leaney, ANU supply-chain lecturer; Dania Thaifa, Gulf security analyst; Mick Mulroy, former US defense official. They discuss the 48-hour Strait of Hormuz ultimatum, risks of targeting regional power infrastructure, Gulf states' defence limits, tanker cancellations affecting Australian fuel supply, and South Australia’s election signals.

Peter Cursley, founder of the Newborn Intensive Care Foundation who turned personal loss into decades of neonatal fundraising. He recounts Hannah’s story and why small comforts and targeted equipment matter. He explains keeping donations local, the idea of short-term 'projecteers' over ongoing volunteers, and calls for stronger government support for neonatal care.

David Leaney, lecturer in international supply chain management at ANU, explains how the Strait of Hormuz crisis threatens fuel flows. He outlines likely near-term price rises and patchy distribution. He quantifies cancelled tanker impacts and suggests practical steps for businesses and individuals. He also highlights broader vulnerabilities to gas, fertilizer and plastics supply chains.

Robyn Holmes, Mayor of Cook Shire Council, reports on impacts and recovery in remote Cape York communities. Joanna Holden, Mayor of Katherine Town Council, provides on-the-ground updates about rising rivers and local flood response. They discuss river peaks, helicopter rescues, road and air logistics, community coordination and volunteer support during recovery.

Leah Blyth, Liberal Senator for South Australia and Shadow Assistant Minister for Defence Infrastructure, reflects on the South Australian result and calls for rebuilding. She discusses leadership instability, a One Nation swing and voter anger. She urges discipline, unity and clearer national-focus messages while critiquing state government failings on housing, health and cost of living.

Barnaby Joyce, deputy leader and federal MP for New England known for regional and conservative advocacy. He discusses South Australia results as a sign of shifting polls. He links climate policy to energy and cost pressures. He raises immigration, culture and Australian identity. He describes blue-collar voters moving toward One Nation and the party’s growing organisation.

Peter Malinauskas, Premier of South Australia and Labor leader re-elected in a landslide. He talks about keeping momentum and avoiding complacency despite big majorities. He reframes patriotic messaging as welcoming civic pride. He contrasts practical policy delivery with threat-driven politics and addresses shifts in suburbs and regions.

Lucinda Longcroft, acting CEO of the Tech Council of Australia, speaks on data centres, AI infrastructure and the tech sector’s economic footprint. She highlights data centres as the backbone of AI. Short takes cover water use in context,Australia’s competitive advantages, electricity and environmental responsibilities, and the sector’s growing share of GDP and jobs.