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
11 snips
Dec 10, 2025 • 34min
Why the housing crisis is such a 'wicked problem'
Tom Crowley, a political journalist and ABC's housing correspondent, takes a deep dive into Australia's housing crisis. He explains why housing is a 'wicked problem' with complex political implications. Tom evaluates the effectiveness of the Labor’s 5% first-homebuyer deposit scheme, warning it may drive prices higher. He also discusses potential solutions like gentle density to increase supply and scrutinizes the ambitious 1.2 million homes target for 2030. With insights into planning blockages and shifts in political stances, Tom provides a thought-provoking look at the future of housing in Australia.
10 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 31min
Will Anika Wells keep her job?
Political tensions rise as the AUKUS partnership faces scrutiny amid U.S. ministerial talks. Concerns about submarine supply and integration are front and center. Meanwhile, Anika Wells grapples with a burgeoning entitlements scandal, stirring debate over public perception and potential reforms. The hosts explore how internal leaks and media coverage amplify the crisis, while the Labor response remains cautious. The social media safety policy rollout is further complicated by the controversy, hinting at a turbulent political summer ahead.
Dec 8, 2025 • 29min
Barnaby makes One Nation flirtation official
Barnaby Joyce officially joins One Nation, raising questions about regional support and his shifting political tone. The hosts discuss his newfound messaging on culture and unity, along with ambitions for the NSW Senate. Meanwhile, Communication Minister Anika Wells faces scrutiny over a taxpayer-funded family trip to the snow, prompting debates on political optics and accountability. The conversations highlight potential defections within the Nationals and the political implications of travel controversies, showcasing the complex landscape of Australian politics.
Dec 5, 2025 • 18min
Tackling racism 'not a priority' for Govt, says Race Discrimination Commissioner
Kiri Siviraman, Australia's Race Discrimination Commissioner, is at the forefront of anti-racism efforts, having developed the National Anti-Racism Framework. She discusses the alarming rise in racism, highlighting neo-Nazi activities and the systemic failures that fuel such movements. Kiri reviews how targets of racism have shifted over time and expresses frustration with the government's minimal response to her framework. She advocates for a positive duty in workplaces and calls for informed discussions on immigration to prevent scapegoating migrants for broader societal issues.
Dec 4, 2025 • 40min
Will Labor muscle-up on gambling reforms?
Anna Henderson, the SBS Chief Political Correspondent, dives into key political debates. She discusses the Albanese Government's push for a social media ban aimed at kids, its potential pitfalls, and the skepticism surrounding it. Henderson also addresses the mounting pressure for online gambling ad reforms, highlighting the challenges the government faces in acting on the bipartisan Murphy review. Additionally, she reviews the damaging findings of the 'jobs for mates' report and questions whether real change can emerge from entrenched political cultures.
Dec 3, 2025 • 19min
Social media ban looms. Are we ready?
Communications Minister Anika Wells outlines a potential social media ban for under-16s, stirring debate over enforcement and parental perspectives. While discussing this, the hosts highlight delays in necessary gambling ad reforms from years past. They also examine the political dynamics affecting decision-making within the Labor party, questioning whether pressure from party members might prompt action. The conversation touches on the economic landscape, hinting at trends that might influence future policy decisions.
12 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 32min
Is the 'jobs for mates' era over?
A scathing report reveals that government appointments often resemble patronage, threatening public trust and political credibility. The discussion highlights the need for independent selection laws and cooling-off periods for officials. Amidst this, a newly unveiled inquiry addresses sexual violence in the Australian Defence Force, exposing cultural inertia. Meanwhile, significant defense reforms aim to streamline acquisition processes. Also, the potential resurgence of One Nation and speculations about Barnaby Joyce's future add to the political intrigue.
Dec 1, 2025 • 0sec
Albanese and the low-key 'royal wedding'
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's secret wedding at The Lodge sparked discussions about its timing and public interest. The hosts humorously note details like a ring-bearing dog in a tutu. However, they shift focus to serious challenges ahead for Labor, examining missed environmental targets and inflation risks. There's a cautionary take on AEMO's warnings regarding energy stability. As they conclude, the hosts ponder political momentum and the future viability of Labor amidst opposition turmoil.
12 snips
Nov 28, 2025 • 22min
Economic Report Card | Insiders On Background
In this engaging discussion, Aruna Sathmapali, CEO of the Grattan Institute, and economist Chris Richardson delve into the critical priorities for the government's new year agenda. They explore the implications of rising inflation and argue against the effectiveness of household energy rebates. Both experts stress the need for strategic spending cuts, emphasizing waste reduction and targeted reforms ahead of the May budget. They also highlight the urgency of boosting productivity to support essential services and climate goals.
Nov 27, 2025 • 39min
Barnaby to defect and enviro laws to pass
Tom McIlroy, political editor at Guardian Australia, dives into recent political shifts, including a Labor-Greens deal on environmental laws amid lengthy negotiations. He discusses the motivations behind Labor's pragmatic partnership with the Greens and the removal of forestry exemptions. The episode also covers Barnaby Joyce's surprising defection to One Nation and the implications of Pauline Hanson's controversial stunts. McIlroy analyzes how these moves may influence voter sentiment and shift political dynamics ahead of upcoming budgets.
