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
Sep 8, 2025 • 23min
Are the Liberals in a civil war?
Tensions erupt within the Liberal party as Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price clashes with Alex Hawke over controversial comments on Indian migration. The dispute raises questions about Sussan Ley's leadership authority amid internal divisions. Discussions reveal the party's struggles to connect with multicultural communities and the impact of immigration policies on upcoming elections. Critiques of anti-immigration campaigns urge a shift towards addressing infrastructure and housing issues instead of scapegoating migrants.
Sep 5, 2025 • 20min
Bob Carr on China’s military might || Insiders: On Background
Bob Carr, former Foreign Minister and New South Wales Premier, shares his insights on China's military prowess and diplomatic strategies. He discusses China's assertive maritime behavior and its implications for regional relationships, especially with the Philippines. The conversation highlights the Quad alliance's dynamics and India’s strategic positioning amid geopolitical shifts. Carr also analyzes the message behind China's recent military parade and reflects on the complexities of US-China relations, framing it within the broader landscape of modern diplomacy.
Sep 4, 2025 • 48min
Quiet Nauru deals, loud immigration protests
Phil Coorey, the political editor for The Australian Financial Review, dives into a controversial $408 million deal with Nauru, raising questions about transparency and costs potentially reaching $2.5 billion. The discussion highlights immigration protests and the Labor Party’s struggles with current policies, including influences from far-right ideologies. Coorey also addresses aged care reforms and the impact of recent political events on international relations, emphasizing the need for clarity in government communication amidst public dissent.
Sep 3, 2025 • 21min
Is the government taxing information?
Raf Epstein, a prominent ABC Radio Melbourne host, joins Patricia Karvelas to tackle pressing issues like the government's controversial changes to Freedom of Information laws, which some argue threaten transparency. They dive into the dire consequences of delayed aged care reforms highlighted by heartbreaking personal stories. The discussion also touches on the rise of neo-Nazism in Australia and the political implications of migration-related protests, emphasizing the need for accountability and open dialogue in national discourse.
Sep 2, 2025 • 32min
Can Labor fix home support for older Australians?
Raf Epstein, an Australian journalist and ABC Radio Melbourne host, dives into the critical state of aged care reforms in Australia. He discusses the tragic delays in essential home care packages, revealing that thousands have died waiting for services. Epstein examines personal caregiver experiences and the political dynamics in Parliament, emphasizing the need for urgent policy reforms. The episode also tackles the importance of transparency in government actions and the consequences of social media on public discourse.
Sep 1, 2025 • 27min
The government condemns anti-immigration rallies
Recent anti-immigration rallies in Australia have sparked intense debate, featuring alarming involvement from neo-Nazi groups. The Albanese government condemned the protests but faces criticism for lack of action. A controversial $400 million plan to deport non-citizens to Nauru has also raised eyebrows. Conversations about the economic contributions of immigrants clash against rising anti-immigration sentiments, pushing Australia into a complex political landscape. Exploring these themes reveals deep-rooted issues of racism and community cohesion.
15 snips
Aug 29, 2025 • 17min
How should governments respond to the 'sovereign citizen' movement? || Insiders: On Background
Joe McIntyre, an Associate Professor from the University of South Australia, discusses the rise of the sovereign citizen movement and its implications. He explores the mindset of its followers, the pandemic's role in radicalization, and the threats they pose to law enforcement. The chat reveals how misinformation on social media fuels this movement and raises concerns about firearms and violence. McIntyre emphasizes mental health connections and advocates for better civic education to counteract these dangerous ideologies.
7 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 40min
Canberra, Iran and a curious photo op
Ashleigh Raper, Network Ten Political Editor, joins Patricia Karvelas and Melissa Clarke to dissect a turbulent week in Canberra. They discuss Australia’s historic expulsion of the Iranian ambassador in response to alleged attacks, signaling a strong stance against foreign aggression. The trio also examines the political fallout from this decision, including bipartisan support and criticisms of past inaction. Furthermore, they touch on the implications of designating the IRGC as a terrorist organization, community concerns, and the nuances of public perception surrounding political maneuvers.
Aug 27, 2025 • 24min
Is the government doing enough on sovereign citizens?
A surge in sovereign citizen ideology following a tragic police incident in Victoria raises national security concerns. The government faces scrutiny over its response and the effectiveness of law enforcement against this rising threat. Meanwhile, revelations about the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps' involvement in anti-Semitic attacks prompt a downgrade of diplomatic ties with Iran. The complexities of these issues reveal the delicate balance of political interests, with calls for bipartisanship amid growing domestic and foreign extremism.
Aug 26, 2025 • 24min
Iran 'orchestrated' attacks on Australian soil
Raf Epstein, a journalist from ABC Radio in Melbourne, dives into shocking revelations about Iran's involvement in attacks on Jewish institutions in Australia. He discusses the Australian government’s decisive actions, including the designation of Iran's Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization. The podcast also addresses the fallout from these escalating tensions, especially concerning the safety of the Jewish community. Additionally, Epstein highlights political turmoil within the Coalition over climate policy, revealing rifts between leadership and party members.
