ABC News Daily

ABC Australia
undefined
Jan 25, 2026 • 15min

The global outrage over Musk’s Grok AI image abuse

Sam Cole, tech journalist and co-founder of 404 Media, explains the Grok AI image-editing scandal and its real-world harms. He outlines how the tool was used to create sexualized edits of real people, the flood of images on X, legal and regulatory fallout, and why limits may not fully prevent abuse.
undefined
Jan 22, 2026 • 15min

How the Coalition split ruptures conservative politics

David Speers, ABC's national political lead and host of Insiders, shares insights on the recent Coalition split. He discusses why several Nationals crossed the floor against hate speech laws, highlighting their concerns over free speech and the rushed legislative process. Speers delves into the motivations behind key figures like Matt Canavan and Bridget McKenzie, the implications for shadow ministers, and the potential rise of One Nation. He also considers the impact on Susan Ley’s leadership and the broader conservative landscape, suggesting this might be a pivotal moment for realignment.
undefined
7 snips
Jan 21, 2026 • 15min

Life for a Bondi survivor weeks after the attack

Jessica Chapnik Kahn, a Bondi attack survivor and mother, shares her harrowing experience shielding her daughter during the December incident that claimed 15 lives. She discusses the emotional aftermath, focusing on personal recovery amidst the chaos. Joining her is Michael Visontay, commissioning editor of The Jewish Independent, who sheds light on the community's anger towards authorities and the political fallout. They explore the need for gun control, the ongoing dialogue about anti-Semitism, and the hope for meaningful change in the wake of tragedy.
undefined
Jan 20, 2026 • 16min

What caused the surge in shark attacks?

Chris Pepin-Neff, an Associate Professor of Public Policy at the University of Sydney and shark policy expert, dives into the alarming increase in shark attacks along the NSW coast. He explains how recent heavy rains have washed sewage into waters, attracting bull sharks closer to shore. Pepin-Neff discusses the reduced visibility from runoff and emphasizes the importance of improved public warnings post-storm. He also critiques ineffective shark nets and urges for long-term safety measures, advocating for education rather than culling as the solution.
undefined
Jan 19, 2026 • 15min

Can Europe stop Trump from taking Greenland?

In this discussion, Laura Tingle, ABC's Global Affairs Editor, offers her insights on Trump’s fixation with Greenland and the implications for Europe and NATO. She highlights Danish and Greenlandic protests against his policies and the threat of US tariffs on European nations. Laura discusses the strategic significance of Greenland's resources, the erosion of NATO's integrity, and Europe's potential countermeasures. She emphasizes the urgent need for a united European response to counter Trump's coercive tactics.
undefined
Jan 18, 2026 • 16min

Was the doomed hate speech law really that bad?

In this engaging discussion, Professor Kath Gelber, a leading expert in hate speech regulation and Deputy Executive Dean at the University of Queensland, delves into the complexities surrounding the recently criticized hate speech laws. She explores the tough balance between free speech and harmful rhetoric, critiques links between protests and the Bondi attack, and highlights issues with vague definitions in the federal proposal. Gelber advocates for nuanced discourse and warns against overreach in restricting speech while emphasizing the need for ethical debate standards.
undefined
6 snips
Jan 15, 2026 • 16min

How Stephen Miller is shaping Trump’s agenda

Join Ashley Parker, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for her in-depth investigative reporting, as she unravels the complex role of Stephen Miller in shaping Trump's agenda. They discuss Miller's hardline tactics, expanding influence over immigration, foreign policy, and military actions. Parker highlights Miller's strategic operations and the blurred lines between personal beliefs and political strategy, linking his radical approach to current events. Discover how Miller's vision of U.S. power could redefine the future under this administration.
undefined
Jan 14, 2026 • 15min

Is Trump about to strike Iran to 'help' protesters?

Hussein Ibish, a senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute, dives into the escalating situation in Iran. He analyzes the factors igniting widespread protests, from economic collapse to water shortages, and discusses the diverse social groups leading the unrest. Ibish draws parallels between current events and the 1979 revolution, warning of opportunistic groups. He decodes Trump's ambiguous promise of 'help' and predicts possible U.S. military actions. The podcast also highlights the regime's weakening grip and the crucial role of information flow via Starlink.
undefined
8 snips
Jan 13, 2026 • 15min

The boycott that killed Adelaide Writers’ Week

Denis Muller, a Senior Research Fellow at the Centre for Advancing Journalism and co-host of the Truth, Lies and Media podcast, dives deep into the cancellation of Adelaide Writers’ Week. He discusses the controversy surrounding author Randa Abdel-Fattah’s removal due to cultural sensitivities and highlights the irony of silencing important voices. The conversation touches on free speech, government pressure, and the complexities of defining cultural safety. Muller warns against restricting speech in response to violence, advocating for more robust boards to handle sensitive topics.
undefined
Jan 13, 2026 • 12min

Why Kevin Rudd quit as our man in Trump’s America

Mark Kenny, Director of the ANU Australian Studies Institute, and Arthur Sinodinos, former Australian ambassador to the US, dive into Kevin Rudd's abrupt early exit as ambassador. They dissect Rudd's past criticisms of Trump and how those may have impacted diplomatic relations. Sinodinos highlights Rudd’s achievements like AUKUS and navigating complex ambassadorial relationships, while Kenny argues that Rudd's tenure was successful despite tensions. Both guests share insights on adapting to different US administrations and Rudd's future role in US–China relations.

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!
App store bannerPlay store banner
Get the app