Politics Now
ABC Australia
The ABC's politics podcast, Politics Now, dives into the biggest political stories in Australia and around the world, giving you a balanced look inside the strategies and decisions behind the headlines. Whenever major news breaks, we'll be in your feed with coverage you can trust.
From Monday to Wednesday, Patricia Karvelas will chat to a rotating cast of the ABC's biggest political journalists about the latest news.
On Thursdays, 'The Party Room' with Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly will discuss the week's developments in depth with another journalist, and answer your questions.
On Saturdays, David Speers gets into the details of a major trend or issue with the help of an expert on 'Insiders On Background'.
From Monday to Wednesday, Patricia Karvelas will chat to a rotating cast of the ABC's biggest political journalists about the latest news.
On Thursdays, 'The Party Room' with Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly will discuss the week's developments in depth with another journalist, and answer your questions.
On Saturdays, David Speers gets into the details of a major trend or issue with the help of an expert on 'Insiders On Background'.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 30, 2025 • 43min
Did Sussan Ley overreach on 'shirtgate'?
Claire Armstrong, an ABC political digital reporter, shares her insights on critical environment legislation and the political wrangling within the party room. She discusses the implications of the government's reform bills and potential negotiations with both the Greens and the Coalition. The podcast delves into the controversial 'shirtgate' incident involving Sussan Ley and the Prime Minister's fashion choice, questioning whether it was a strategic mistake amidst pressing issues like inflation and energy pricing. Armstrong also highlights the challenges faced by the Coalition on net zero policies.
13 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 33min
Antony Green on the rise of One Nation
Antony Green, a veteran ABC election analyst, dives into the political storm stirred by Pauline Hanson and One Nation. He reveals how Hanson’s stunning entry in 1996 shook the Coalition and discusses the party’s two distinct phases, including its shocking 1998 rise and later revival in 2016. Green analyzes the complexities of preference deals, the internal chaos of One Nation, and current polling that suggests it could threaten Coalition seats. He also speculates on the future of the party and what might happen if Hanson steps down.
11 snips
Oct 28, 2025 • 18min
Is Labor ‘taking the piss’ on integrity?
The Albanese Government faces scrutiny after a report reveals it has failed six out of seven integrity measures. Discussions on transparency raise questions about the Prime Minister's media strategy. The proposed changes to Freedom of Information laws could harm public inquiries. Meanwhile, the looming closure of the Tomago Aluminium Smelter due to energy costs sparks concerns over job protection. The debate continues over accountability in telecoms following the Optus network outage, with calls for a Senate inquiry.
Oct 27, 2025 • 0sec
Is this Labor's biggest test yet?
The Albanese Government faces a crucial challenge with the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation reform bill. Graeme Samuel's report adds pressure on the Opposition while raising questions about the bill's approval system. Labor is torn between negotiating with the Coalition or the Greens, both bringing their own risks and demands. Meanwhile, Labor is managing internal and external stakeholder dynamics as they navigate the legislative landscape amidst the Prime Minister's overseas trip. Plus, a light-hearted take on Trump's renovation metaphor adds some humor.
Oct 24, 2025 • 29min
What does Trump really think about China? | Insiders On Background
Justin Bassi, Executive Director of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, dives into crucial issues surrounding Australia’s defense strategy and its alliance with the U.S. He discusses the implications of the recent Albanese-Trump meeting and Trump's comments on China and Taiwan. Bassi emphasizes the importance of increased defense spending and strategic investments beyond just budget numbers. He also analyzes Xi Jinping's approach to Taiwan, deterrence dynamics, and the complexities of AUKUS agreements amid evolving geopolitical tensions.
10 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 45min
How Albanese won Trump over
Katina Curtis, Canberra Bureau Chief for The West Australian, dives into Anthony Albanese's surprising success during his White House meeting with Donald Trump. They discuss how Trump's alignment with Labor's stances could weaken Opposition critiques on AUKUS and defense funding. Katina also explains the significance of the new US-Australia critical minerals deal, highlighting key projects and investment strategies aimed at reducing reliance on China. Plus, insights into the political drama surrounding Barnaby Joyce's potential shift to One Nation spice up the conversation.
8 snips
Oct 22, 2025 • 20min
What Trump's China message means for Australia
Anthony Albanese's recent meeting with Donald Trump sparked diverse reactions, while the call for US Ambassador Kevin Rudd’s resignation was deemed petty by Liberal Senator Jane Hume. Trump’s comments on China have raised strategic concerns for Australia, particularly regarding Taiwan. Discussion revolves around Trump's inconsistent foreign policy stance and its implications for Australia’s position in US relations. With bipartisan support for security initiatives like AUKUS highlighted, the meeting emerges as a significant diplomatic win for Albanese.
Oct 21, 2025 • 26min
Albanese heads home with a Trump card
Prime Minister Albanese and President Trump met, striking a deal on critical minerals that boosts Australia's mining prospects. The discussion heated up when former PM Rudd's awkward interaction with Trump raised eyebrows. Amid reassurances on defence spending and the AUKUS deal, the hosts analyzed the significance of media optics and the meeting's political fallout. They evaluated the coalition's criticism and how Albanese's success could reshape Labor's image, emphasizing a narrative of effectiveness.
Oct 20, 2025 • 26min
Is Barnaby the new Pauline Hanson?
Barnaby Joyce is stirring the pot by flirting with One Nation, raising questions about the unity of the Nationals and his future ambitions. There's lively debate on whether One Nation can win lower house seats amid a political shift to the right. Meanwhile, Albanese's upcoming meeting with Trump is crucial; success hinges on securing commitment for AUKUS and potential tariff negotiations. Will Albanese flatter Trump for diplomatic gains? The political landscape is ripe for intrigue and potential fallout.
Oct 17, 2025 • 19min
What will happen when Albanese meets Trump? | Insiders On Background
In this engaging discussion, Hayley Channer, Director of the Economic Security Program at the US Studies Centre, shares her insights on the upcoming meeting between Anthony Albanese and Donald Trump. She highlights potential flashpoints in defense spending and critical minerals. Hayley also explores the complexities of US–Australia relations, the impact of China's dominance in rare earths, and the necessity of public investment for minerals security. The conversation is a deep dive into strategic challenges and opportunities in reshaping supply chains.
