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
Jul 15, 2025 • 26min
Does Labor have a chance to be ambitious about housing?
The government faces scrutiny over its ambitious goal of constructing 1.2 million homes in five years, raising questions about housing reform. As leaks from Treasury heighten concerns, discussions turn to the complexities of collaboration between state and federal entities. Meanwhile, the political ramifications of anti-Semitism and donations to right-wing groups complicate Labor’s stance. Balancing public sentiment with expert advice proves challenging in navigating these controversial issues amid a polarized society.
Jul 14, 2025 • 21min
Will the PM find a friend in China?
The Prime Minister's recent visit to China sparks intrigue as it tests Australia’s delicate balance between trade benefits and U.S. pressures. With defense concerns looming, the AUKUS agreement adds another layer of complexity. Meanwhile, a revealing freedom of information request sheds light on housing strategies, raising questions about budgeting ambitions. The dynamics of international diplomacy are intertwined with domestic political realities, making for a captivating exploration of power, alliances, and expectations.
Jul 11, 2025 • 27min
Charm Offensive: China and US relations | Insiders On Background
Geoff Raby, a former Australian diplomat and economist, shares his deep insights into Australia-China relations. He discusses the Prime Minister’s upcoming trip to China and the complexities of balancing trade and security concerns. Raby highlights contentious issues like the detention of a writer and military activities in the South China Sea, while also touching on the recent diplomatic thaw. He emphasizes the importance of personal relationships in diplomacy and explores opportunities in technology and green energy as both nations navigate intricate ties.
Jul 10, 2025 • 37min
'Racism' in the NT police. Will the government push for change?
Carly Williams, a Quandamooka woman and ABC’s National Indigenous Correspondent, sheds light on the recent coroner's findings regarding Kumanjayi Walker's death and the call for accountability in the NT police. She discusses the community's push for systemic change and the necessity for a new generation of Indigenous leaders, especially during NAIDOC week. The conversation also touches on broader political implications, including the government's commitment to truth-telling and Australia's diplomatic relationship with China amidst rising tensions.
Jul 9, 2025 • 19min
Will Trump's tariffs make medicine more expensive?
Brett Worthington, an insightful ABC political journalist, dives into the hot topic of Trump's proposed pharmaceutical tariffs, which could spike medicine costs by 200%. He discusses how this might shift Labor's dialogue and impact US negotiations amid economic uncertainties. The chat also covers the nuanced ties between Australia and China, emphasizing the need for coherent trade strategies amidst diplomatic tensions. Worthington highlights the broader implications for Australian exports and the Reserve Bank's interest rate decisions in a complex global landscape.
Jul 8, 2025 • 19min
Why the RBA held rates
Mortgage-borrowers are reeling from the RBA's unexpected decision to maintain the cash rate at 3.85%. The chat dives into the economic implications of this choice amid global instability. The hosts dissect the balance between inflation fears and growth sustainability. They also shed light on the RBA's newfound transparency in decision-making and its impact on public perception. Additionally, trade negotiations and the upcoming diplomatic visit to China add layers of complexity to Australia's political landscape.
Jul 7, 2025 • 25min
Is Australia's multicultural project in trouble?
Jacob Greber, the Political editor of 7.30, discusses the alarming rise in anti-Semitic acts in Australia, emphasizing its threat to social cohesion. He highlights significant political shifts within the Jewish community following recent elections. As NAIDOC week celebrates its milestone, they debate the urgent need for a national truth-telling process to confront historical injustices faced by Aboriginal Australians. Greber also addresses the complexities of political leadership in tackling systemic racism and balancing pressing issues like childcare and military spending.
10 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 26min
Linda Burney: Yoorrook Commission lays "very fine blueprint for the way forward"
In a compelling discussion, Linda Burney, former Federal Minister for Indigenous Affairs, addresses the landmark Yoorrook Justice Commission findings, which reveal a history of genocide against Aboriginal people in Victoria. She emphasizes the need for community-led truth-telling processes in reconciliation. Burney advocates for collaborative governance and genuine Indigenous representation to tackle systemic injustices. The conversation also focuses on the Commission's pivotal recommendations for redress and the celebration of young First Nations leaders during NAIDOC Week.
Jul 3, 2025 • 35min
Our childcare system is facing a 'reckoning'
Anna Henderson, Chief Political Correspondent for SBS World News, dives deep into Australia's childcare crisis, triggered by alarming allegations against a worker. She discusses the urgent need for a national regulator to enforce safety standards and tackle staffing shortages. The conversation also addresses the broader implications of the first truth-telling inquiry on Indigenous rights and reconciliation. Meanwhile, Henderson analyzes political shifts, including the Liberal Party's struggles and the ongoing geopolitical tension in Gaza, highlighting the interconnectedness of these issues.
7 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 20min
What Labor needs to do about child safety
Brett Worthington, an ABC political journalist, dives into the urgent child safety issues facing Australia after recent alarming charges against childcare workers. He discusses the government's response, questioning if Education Minister Jason Clare's proposed funding cuts are sufficient for ensuring safety. The conversation also touches on Australia-US relations, the political impacts of Donald Trump's influence, and the necessity of addressing humanitarian issues in light of international conflicts. This engaging dialogue exposes the pressing need for reform and accountability in childcare.
