7am

When US President Donald Trump ordered strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, the world watched for a response. But in Australia, there was silence. It took a day before Prime Minister Anthony Albanese or Foreign Affairs Minister Penny Wong addressed the media. When they did, they backed the US, tentatively, while calling for calm. For Albanese, a leader who once opposed the Iraq war, it’s a moment that reveals how far Labor has travelled on foreign policy and how little resistance that shift is meeting inside his own party. But while Labor falls in line, the Coalition are thrashing their way to a new identity. This week, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley made her first major pitch to the public – signalling where she wants to take her divided party. Today, columnist for The Monthly and Inside Story, Karen Middleton, on war, politics and the calculations driving both major parties. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Columnist for The Monthly and Inside Story, Karen Middleton. Photo: Lukas Coch / AAPSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cyclone Alfred should not have tracked as far south as it did. But in March it tore through Brisbane, the Gold Coast and the Northern Rivers, affecting about four million people. One of them was climate scientist and IPCC lead author, Joëlle Gergis. She says the storm’s freak southward drift, driven by record-warm ocean temperatures, shows the climate crisis is outrunning politics. Today, Joëlle Gergis on how far governments have fallen behind their climate promises – and the bold action Australia must take before the next disaster strikes. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Climate scientist and lead author for the IPCC, Joëlle Gergis. Photo: David Gray / AFPSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A mistake at an IVF clinic has led to a woman giving birth to a stranger’s baby. It’s a catastrophic error and not the first one that’s recently come to light. Such risks are not covered in the marketing material of Australia’s major fertility clinics. But this mistake – at one of the oldest and most reputable clinics in the country – has had devastating consequences that reach far beyond the affected families, and damaged the confidence of anyone relying on fertility treatment in Australia. Today, writer and public health campaigner Hannah Bambra on how Monash IVF has handled its monumental mistake, and why the IVF industry is so vulnerable to human error. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Writer and public health campaigner Hannah Bambra Photo: Supplied by University of Queensland/AAP ImageSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

America’s attacks on Iran’s nuclear sites over the weekend mark a terrifying turning point. Donald Trump has taken the US into direct conflict with Iran – and risked what the UN secretary-general is calling a “rathole of retaliation”. US Secretary of Defence Pete Hegseth claims that Iran’s nuclear ambitions have been obliterated, but questions remain about the extent of the damage, and whether the attack will only strengthen Iran’s resolve to rebuild. Moreover, Trump’s calls for regime change suggest that peace may take much longer. Today, author of The Permanent Crisis: Iran’s Nuclear Trajectory and defence editor at The Economist Shashank Joshi, on what Iran will do next. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Author of The Permanent Crisis: Iran’s Nuclear Trajectory and defence editor at The Economist, Shashank Joshi Photo: Hindustan Times/Sipa USASee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having fought his way to the top of the South Australian Liberal ticket, Alex Antic is working to reshape the party as a radical outfit more interested in ideology than governing. The Liberal senator calls himself an irrelevant backbencher, but he’s installed allies, toppled moderates and is pushing the party’s politics to the edge. His playbook mirrors Donald Trump’s: dominate the narrative, fight the culture wars and never aim for the centre – and moderates fear he will keep the Liberal party unelectable. Today, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis, on the rise of Alex Antic and the fight for the soul of the Liberal Party. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis. Photo: AAP Image/Mick TsikasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ian Rankin introduced Detective John Rebus in his 1987 novel Knots and Crosses. Since then, Rankin has published another two dozen books in the series and has sold almost 40 million books to date. Unsurprisingly, he’s now Sir Ian Rankin. This week, Michael sits down with Ian at Sydney Writers’ Festival for discussion about his latest Rebus book, Midnight and Blue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the G7 summit in Canada, Anthony Albanese had prepared carefully for a meeting with Donald Trump – even reaching out to Trump’s golfing buddy, Greg Norman. But just before they were due to meet, the US president walked out of the summit and flew home to address the conflict between Israel and Iran. In some quarters, the snub has been portrayed as a personal slight against Albanese. Whatever Trump’s reasons, it highlights just how strained Australia’s relationship with its most important ally has become. Today, columnist to The Saturday Paper, Paul Bongiorno, on the fallout from the failed meeting – and what it reveals about power, sovereignty and AUKUS. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Contributor to The Saturday Paper, Paul Bongiorno. Photo: The White HouseSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Medicine in Australia could soon become more expensive and harder to come by. The Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme – the safety net that keeps our prescriptions cheap – has been drawn into Donald Trump’s trade war, after the US president signed an order saying the United States should not pay more for medicines than its peer countries. Drug companies have now paused new PBS listings and warn some treatments may never reach Australian patients. Today, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis, on how one decision in Washington could force Australians to pay more for vital drugs – and whether Canberra has the leverage to stop it. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis. Photo: AP Photo/Julio CortezSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Abortion was fully decriminalised across Australia in 2023, meaning people can end a pregnancy without fear of prosecution. But that hasn’t stopped abortion being weaponised against women in the courtroom. Writer and producer Madison Griffiths, who has spent a decade covering reproductive rights, was shocked to learn that abortion records were surfacing in custody battles in the family court, and even sexual abuse trials. Today, contributor to The Saturday Paper, Madison Griffiths, on the right to choose – and how the law is struggling to keep up with this new form of domestic abuse. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Writer, artist and producer Madison Griffiths.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On Friday, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, sending roughly 200 fighter jets to hit more than a hundred sites across Iran – including parts of its nuclear program. Israel says the attack was “pre-emptive”, meant to address an immediate and inevitable threat on Iran’s part to construct a nuclear bomb. As attacks from both countries continue, scheduled talks between Iran and the US over the future of Iran’s nuclear program have been cancelled. Today, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, Gregg Carlstrom, on why Israel chose this moment to strike, how it’s angling for regime change in Iran and what it will take to de-escalate the conflict. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Middle East correspondent for The Economist, Gregg Carlstrom. Photo: AP Photo/Leo CorreaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A quiet transformation is underway at Australian universities. Behind closed doors, powerful consulting firms are helping to reshape higher education; cutting courses, centralising power, and outsourcing staff. One firm in particular, Nous Group, is now embedded in some of the country’s most prestigious institutions. At the Australian National University, its role in a $250 million restructure has been concealed, even from parliament, raising serious concerns about transparency and accountability. Today, senior reporter for The Saturday Paper, Rick Morton, on how consultants gained control of the university sector, and what it could mean for the future of higher education. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Senior reporter for The Saturday Paper, Rick Morton. Photo: University of SydneySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On the surface, Kaliane Bradley’s debut is a time-travel novel — it’s speculative fiction meets romance and espionage. But underneath? It's a sharp, satirical exploration of institutional control — of what happens when government red tape meets the impossible. On this episode of Read This, Michael sits down for a conversation with Kaliane Bradley to discuss her bestselling book The Ministry of Time. (edited) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Anthony Albanese heads to the G7 summit, the future of Australia’s most important defence pact is suddenly uncertain. The Trump administration is reviewing AUKUS, pushing for more military spending, and condemning Australia’s new sanctions on Israeli ministers – all signs of a once stable alliance under pressure. Today, press gallery journalist and columnist for Inside Story, Karen Middleton, on what’s testing the US–Australia relationship, and whether a meeting on neutral ground can strengthen the longstanding alliance. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Press gallery journalist and columnist for Inside Story, Karen Middleton. Photo: Bianca De MarchiSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elon Musk and Donald Trump were once political partners – sharing praise, power and ice-cream parties. Now the pair have been trading insults on their own social media networks. In what started with Musk’s opposition to the president’s so-called “Big Beautiful Bill”, that proposes extensive tax cuts, the feud has sparked threats that could ground NASA missions and blow holes in the US federal budget. Today, tech and power reporter for The Guardian, Nick Robins-Early, on the break-up and the dangers of handing critical services to a single billionaire. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Tech and power reporter for The Guardian, Nick Robins-Early. Photo: EPA / Will OliverSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Donald Trump’s agenda of mass deportations has reached a tipping point. After ICE raids in Los Angeles sparked street riots, the president dispatched the National Guard and active duty Marines to confront protestors, while threatening to arrest California Governor Gavin Newsom if he stands in the way. Today, senior political correspondent for Time magazine, Eric Cortellessa, on the LA riots, the political battle, and whether Trump’s commandeering of the National Guard is a forerunner to more authoritarian acts. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Senior political correspondent for Time magazine, Eric Cortellessa Photo: EPA/Allison DinnerSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Anthony Albanese first became prime minister, he began dismantling the Home Affairs super-ministry, which had been overseen by Peter Dutton. Labor had long opposed a model which saw such significant power contained within one portfolio – and removed ASIO and the AFP from Home Affairs. Now, in a spectacular reversal, and without explanation, Albanese is making Home Affairs even more powerful than the super-portfolio first created in 2017 – and it’s all under the control of Tony Burke. Today, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis, on what the move says about Tony Burke’s rising power, and what it means for our national security. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis Photo: Mick TsikasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At the recent election, a generational shift became undeniable. Nearly half of all voters were Millennials or Gen Z – and their votes helped deliver Labor its biggest lower house majority ever, returned a sizable crossbench, and left the Coalition reeling. But despite their decisive influence, young voters are still waiting for answers – especially on one issue they’ve placed at the heart of their demands: a government duty of care in the face of the climate crisis. Today, climate activist Anjali Sharma, on whether Labor will govern for the young people who delivered them victory. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Climate activist Anjali Sharma Photo: SuppliedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Torrey Peters’ debut novel, Detransition, Baby, was an instant sensation. Longlisted for the Women’s Prize in the UK and named one of the New York Times’ best books of the 21st century so far, the book catapulted Torrey into the limelight. Her second and latest book, Stag Dance, is a collection of four stories that are brutal, funny, and brilliant. On this episode of Read This, Michael sits down with Torrey to discuss the genesis of Stag Dance and why she isn’t interested in trans identity.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump’s return to power is testing Australia’s decades-old reflex to stand with the United States. When the US defence secretary, Pete Hegseth, demanded Canberra nearly double its military spend, Anthony Albanese answered that Australia will decide its own defence policy – and has been vocal in his criticisms of Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminium. With public support for automatic alignment with the US fading, the prime minister is recalibrating the alliance in real time. Today, columnist for The Saturday Paper, Paul Bongiorno, on how Australia is no longer “all the way” with the USA. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Columnist for The Saturday Paper, Paul Bongiorno. Photo: PA/AlamySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Greg Bourne, former BP Australasia president, once worked alongside Australia’s biggest LNG venture: Woodside’s North West Shelf. Now a councillor at the Climate Council, he warns extending the project will unleash billions of tonnes of emissions and threaten tens of thousands of ancient rock carvings, while delivering a “pittance” in economic benefit to Australia. Yet Bourne says the decision to keep the project running until 2070 was almost inevitable, after decades of lobbying in Canberra. Today, Greg Bourne on how Woodside got the green light – and the reform he says is needed to stop the next fossil-fuel behemoth. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Former BP Australasia president, Greg Bourne. Photo: AAP Image/Supplied by Woodside EnergySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Labor is poised to move forward with its plan to increase the tax on superannuation balances over $3 million. Critics are calling the idea unfair and questioning why Labor’s super tax will apply to unrealised gains, rather than just money made. But with Labor’s super majority in parliament – and support from the Greens in the senate – their opponents can only complain. Today, national correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Mike Seccombe, on Labor’s superannuation plan, and what it tells us about the government’s economic priorities in its second term. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: National correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Mike Seccombe. Photo: AAP Image/Russell FreemanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As the search to explain the Coalition’s disastrous election results continues, there’s one group being singled out inside Liberal campaign headquarters: the right-wing lobby, Advance. Flush with a multi-million dollar war chest, Advance promised to “take back” the country – yet Labor won 17 new seats and the Greens vote barely moved. As Advance and the Liberals blame each other for the failures, there are questions about whether the two will ever work together again. Today, national correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis, on how Advance “siphoned” Liberal funds, muddied its message, and yet is still claiming victory. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis. Photo: Credit: AAP Image / Jono SearleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For anyone doubting her ability to rehabilitate the Coalition after its thumping May 3 loss, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has a message: people have questioned her capability and drive before. Ley says she’s proven them all wrong – as a roustabout picking up fleeces in 40-degree heat or piloting aeroplanes low over western Queensland to muster cattle when no one thought she could. Now, as the first woman to lead the Liberal Party, Ley promises to “meet modern Australia where they are” and to win back women, young people and inner-city voters by 2028. Today, chief political correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Karen Barlow, on her conversation with Ley – and what it reveals about the Coalition’s path out of defeat. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Chief political correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Karen Barlow Photo: AAP Image/Lukas CochSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kevin Wilson writes weird books about weird people — in the best possible way. In 2019’s Nothing to See Here, two children have a condition that means they spontaneously combust. In Now Is Not the Time to Panic, two lonely young artists wreak havoc on their small town, prompting fears of Satanism. This week on Read This, Michael sits down with Kevin to discuss how he wrote his latest novel, Run for the Hills, why having children revealed the multitude of ways weirdness can manifest.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After a week of turmoil, the Coalition has patched things up and Opposition Leader Sussan Ley has unveiled her new shadow ministry. The appointments show the Coalition’s wounds are still raw. Nationals Leader David Littleproud secured key concessions in the renewed pact, but his hardball tactics have colleagues wondering how long he’ll last. Meanwhile, Labor is wrestling with its own debate over Gaza, as party elders and backbenchers push for tougher action against Israel. Today, press gallery journalist and Inside Story columnist, Karen Middleton, on the winners and losers of the reshuffle – and where the next parliament’s battlelines will be drawn. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Press gallery journalist and Inside Story columnist, Karen Middleton. Photo: AAP Image/Mick TsikasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Philip Low’s brain-mapping breakthrough made him a billionaire. Now a blistering Facebook post has thrust the neuroscientist into a new fight – with his old friend, Elon Musk. Low called Musk a “narcissist with an obsessive lust for power” in a post shared nearly 50,000 times before it mysteriously vanished. Now Low is claiming X and other social media platforms are silencing dissent, and has set aside US$250 million to test in court whether their promises of “free speech” are really false advertising. Today, veteran UK correspondent and contributor to The Saturday Paper, Paola Totaro, on the neuroscientist taking on Silicon Valley, and attacking the character and credibility of the world’s richest man. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. You can read more of this reporting in this weekend's edition of The Saturday Paper. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: UK correspondent and contributor to The Saturday Paper, Paola Totaro. Photo: AP Photo/Susan WalshSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Until late last year, the United States had a US$10 million bounty on Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. A former leader of the al-Nusra Front and al-Qaeda in Iraq, al-Sharaa was once an enemy of America. Now Syria’s transitional leader, al-Sharaa has just met US President Donald Trump, who called him “an attractive young guy” with “a strong past” and pledged to lift sanctions on Damascus. Today, Damascus-based correspondent, Heidi Pett, on meeting al-Sharaa in person, how he won an audience with Trump and what it means for Syria’s future. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Damascus-based correspondent, Heidi Pett. Photo: PA/AlamySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Abbott was on a layover in Dubai when he phoned Natasha Griggs – the president of the Country Liberal Party – and set off a chain reaction inside the Coalition. Hours later, Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price defected to the Liberals and a surprise leadership ticket was taking shape. For moderates, it was another sign that the former prime minister and his confidante, Peta Credlin, are still pulling the party’s levers from the outside. Today, national correspondent for The Saturday Paper Jason Koutsoukis, on Tony Abbott, the shadow network steering the Liberals and why insiders say it’s a cancer that’s killing the party. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: National correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis. Photo: SuppliedSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia has a new environment minister – and he has a big job ahead of him: fixing the country’s broken environment laws. Murray Watt has replaced Tanya Plibersek, whose efforts at reform were famously thwarted by the prime minister. But before Watt can begin that task, he faces another critical decision: whether to let Woodside Energy extend its North West Shelf gas project to 2070 – opening new gas fields and unleashing a “carbon bomb” worth roughly 10 times Australia’s current annual emissions. Today, national correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Mike Seccombe, on Murray Watt, his plans for the environment and the decision that could define his tenure. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: National correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Mike Seccombe. Photo: AAP Image / Darren EnglandSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

London-based Australian author Jessica Stanley’s second novel, Consider Yourself Kissed, opens with all the beats of a classic romantic comedy – a meet-cute, a grand gesture, instant attraction – but what follows is a book about the next bit, the day to day reality of just living. But Jessica writes it with grace and wit and compassion, finding the romance in what comes next when two people decide to be together. In this episode of Read This, Michael sits down with Jessica for a conversation about life, love, and the importance of what’s on your bookshelf.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday we were saying “rest in peace” to the Coalition – but today there are signs it could be reborn. The Liberal and National parties are back at the negotiating table to see if they can repair their broken bond. How Sussan Ley handles this moment will say a lot about the future of the Liberal Party under her leadership. It’s a choice between a strained partnership or a future free from the constraints of compromise. Today, chief political correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Karen Barlow, on why the Coalition might suddenly be reforming and whether they can ever really trust each other again. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Chief political correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Karen Barlow. Photo: Mick Tsikas/AAP ImageSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just a week after taking charge in the wake of the Liberals’ disastrous election result, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley now finds herself without a coalition partner. Nationals leader David Littleproud says he walked from the agreement after the Liberals refused to lock in a list of policy commitments, while Ley accused the Nationals of holding the agreement “hostage”. The split is a major setback for the Liberals, but it may be worse for the National Party – now relegated to a minor party on the crossbench. Today, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis, on why the Coalition broke up and what it will take to bring them back together. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis. Photo: AAP Image/Lukas Coch; Mick TsikasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thousands of children from South Korea have been adopted by Australian families over decades. In many cases, these children were raised to believe they were orphans – and their adoptive families believed they were doing something loving and selfless by giving them a home. But a much more sinister truth has been laid bare: South Korea’s own Truth and Reconciliation Commission exposed how many of those adoptions were built on falsified orphan records, and traced trafficking and forged documents back to the agencies involved. Today, associate editor for The Saturday Paper, Martin McKenzie-Murray, on the trafficking of fake orphans, and whether Australia is finally ready to confront its role in the trade. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Associate editor for The Saturday Paper, Martin McKenzie-Murray. Photo: AP Photo/Ahn Young-joonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two weeks ago, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced his plans to step up his country’s attacks on Gaza, with “extensive ground operations”. Israeli officials have described the strategy as “conquering” and occupying the strip. That plan is now underway, with ground operations in the north and in the south. In the past week, hundreds of Palestinians have been killed, making it one of the deadliest periods in Gaza since ceasefire negotiations broke down in March. Last week, Donald Trump visited the Middle East – but didn’t go to Israel. Today, Middle East correspondent for The Economist, Gregg Carlstrom, on Trump’s role in the conflict – and what it would take for the war to end. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Middle East correspondent for The Economist Gregg Carlstrom Photo: EPA/Abir SultanSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Larissa Waters is the new leader of the Australian Greens. She steps in as the party reels from its election wipe-out, losing three of its four seats in the House of Representatives – including that of Adam Bandt. Senator Waters’ task is to repair the Greens’ image: Labor has painted the party as obstructive and militant, and that perception has cost the Greens votes. Today, national correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Mike Seccombe, on Larissa Waters – why she won, and whether she can rebuild the Greens. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: National correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Mike Seccombe Photo: AAP / Joel CarrettSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Josephine Rowe’s writing has been described by the New York Times as “gorgeous” and “precise”. This is particularly evident in her latest novel, Little World; a slender book that offers a deeper, denser exploration of ideas than its modest page count might suggest. This week on Read This, Michael sits down with Josephine to discuss the genesis of Little World and why a library card might be her most prized possession.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Labor insiders are asked who was responsible for their thumping election victory, one name keeps coming up: Paul Erickson. Even though Erickon likes to keep a low profile, Anthony Albanese made a point of thanking him in his victory speech on election night. So, who is Paul Erickson? And what is next for the quiet force behind Labor’s landslide win? Today, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis, on the electoral battles that shaped Paul Erickson and whether he has a future in parliament. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis Photo: AAP Image / Mick TsikasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three years ago this month, Sussan Ley stood beside Peter Dutton as his deputy, the newly installed pair projecting confidence about the contest ahead. Ley backed Dutton enthusiastically. But now, in 2025, she faces the public as the Coalition’s new leader after voters rejected the Dutton-Ley project and handed the Liberals its worst defeat on record. The task before Ley is threefold: unite the Coalition, reset its policy platform, and win back the city women and younger voters who deserted the Liberal Party. Today, chief political correspondent for The Saturday Paper Karen Barlow, on Sussan Ley’s uphill battle to rebuild the Coalition. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Chief political correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Karen Barlow Photo: AAP Image/Mick TsikasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Anthony Albanese’s new ministry was sworn in this week, it was overshadowed by the axing of Ed Husic and Mark Dreyfus. Husic in particular didn’t go quietly, calling Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles a “factional assassin”. After a landslide victory – with 93 seats and counting – the prime minister could choose from a significant talent pool to assemble the ministry. But the process was limited by longstanding factional rules. Today, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis, on whether factions help or hurt the Labor Party – and who won out. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis Photo: AAP Image/Lukas CochSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, the Liberal Party will elect a new leader. Whoever is chosen will have to figure out how to attract women back to the party – both candidates and voters. But Julia Banks thinks that ship has sailed and it’s time for a new coalition. Today, the former Liberal MP on what it’s like to be a woman in the party – and why she’ll never go back. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Former Liberal MP, Julia Banks. Photo: AAP Image/Mick TsikasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Just before 4.30pm last Wednesday, Antony Green called it for the ABC: Greens leader Adam Bandt had lost his seat. Fifteen years after Bandt won the inner-urban seat of Melbourne from the ALP, Labor has taken it back – along with two of the Greens’ other three seats – leaving the party with just a single MP in the House of Representatives and without a leader. The wipeout came as a shock to the Greens, who had high hopes of increasing their number of representatives in parliament. But despite the shock result, this election sits alongside 2010 and 2022 as among the party’s largest ever share of votes. Today, national correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Mike Seccombe, on where it all went wrong, and what now for the Greens. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: National correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Mike Seccombe Photo: AAP Image / Diego FedeleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In addition to being an established novelist, James Bradley is also a journalist and writer of non-fiction, much of it concerned with the natural world and the myriad threats it faces. Set in the near future, in a world that is in the grips of climate catastrophe, his latest novel, Landfall, is a crime thriller at its heart. On this episode of Read This, Michael and James discuss what it means to write into a specific genre and why kindness is so important in both this novel and the world.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A week ago, most pundits were predicting a hung parliament as the likely outcome of Australia’s federal election. Instead, Labor has secured one of its largest majorities in recent decades – eclipsing even Bob Hawke’s first-term result. Anthony Albanese now commands near-unquestioned authority within his party. But as the celebrations subside, questions are already emerging about how his government will use that mandate and whether hubris could undo it. Today, columnist for The Saturday Paper, Paul Bongiorno, on Labor’s historic win and the risks that follow a landslide. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Columnist for The Saturday Paper, Paul Bongiorno Photo: AAP/Mick TsikasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1999, Ali Jafari fled the Taliban regime in Afghanistan and was resettled as a refugee in Australia. But then, while visiting Pakistan, his permanent residency was suddenly cancelled. Now, 12 years later, he’s still stranded – separated from his family and fighting ASIO’s allegations that he is a people smuggler. In court, Jafari’s family and legal team are up against it. They have discovered that the evidence behind his adverse security assessment is deemed confidential and will only be presented in a closed hearing – without their presence. It’s an example of how the national security apparatus is increasingly being used to pursue suspected people smugglers, often at the expense of foundational principles of justice. Today, journalist and contributor to The Saturday Paper Mark Isaacs on the Jafari family’s search for answers and why ASIO refuses to provide them. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Journalist and contributor to The Saturday Paper, Mark Isaacs. Photo: AFP Photo / BasarnasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In January, Katie Tangey was killed in a Melbourne house fire believed to be part of the ongoing “tobacco wars”. Police say she was an innocent victim and the arsonists got the wrong address. The tobacco wars are driven by rival gangs fighting over a black market worth billions, and have been marked by firebombings, extortion and murder. While headlines focus on the violence, skyrocketing government taxes on tobacco have long been fuelling the fire behind the scenes. Today, associate editor for The Saturday Paper, Martin McKenzie-Murray, on how a public health initiative created the conditions for a deadly turf war. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Associate editor for The Saturday Paper, Martin McKenzie-Murray. Photo: AAP Image/Diego FedeleSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As Peter Dutton conceded his 24-year hold on the Brisbane seat of Dickson, he said the Liberal Party will “rebuild”. The party’s soul-searching has begun, as it looks to select a new leader and consider its future direction. But a return to the Liberal Party’s traditional values is complicated by Peter Dutton having led the party further to the right and the election having diminished much of its moderate wing. Today, chief political correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Karen Barlow, on what’s next for the Liberal Party. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Chief political correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Karen Barlow. Credit: Pat Hoelscher / APSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Karen Middleton has known Anthony Albanese for more than 30 years – since before he entered parliament. She’s watched his rise, and documented the moments that have shaped the leader he is today. And Karen says this election is going to change Anthony Albanese, in ways that will change the country too. Today author of Albanese: Telling it Straight Karen Middleton, on why Anthony Albanese won – and what the next three years of Labor government will look like. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Journalist and author of Albanese - Telling It Straight Karen Middleton Photo: AAP Image/Lukas CochSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The mood inside Labor HQ was jubilant as it became clear that against all expectations, Anthony Albanese had led the Labor party to victory, with a significantly increased majority. For the coalition the outcome is devastating, and Peter Dutton is out of a job. On top of that, the next generation of Liberal leadership has been wiped off the electoral map, setting the party back for years to come. Today, we take you inside Anthony Albanese’s election night party with special correspondent for The Saturday Paper Jason Koutsoukis. We find out how Labor defied the odds and what it means for the country. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: special correspondent for The Saturday Paper Jason Koutsoukis Photo: AAP Image/Lukas CochSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s election day! While Anthony Albanese’s campaign has been modest and predictable, Peter Dutton’s has been marked by missteps and backflips. It seems the traits that powered Dutton’s rise are now holding him back. Today, columnist and former adviser to two prime ministers, Sean Kelly, on the decisions that shaped both leaders – and what killed Peter Dutton’s campaign. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Columnist and former adviser to two prime ministers, Sean Kelly. Photo: AAP Image/PoolSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since the election was announced, just five weeks ago, at least five women have been killed by their partners in Australia. Yet this crisis has barely received a mention in either of the two major parties’ campaigns. Dr Tracy Westerman, a Nyamal woman from the Pilbara region of Western Australia, has worked as a psychologist in remote communities for 25 years. She says where she works, the silence from politicians has been especially deafening. Aboriginal women face a significantly higher risk of domestic violence, but the assumptions our political leaders draw about the causes are deeply misguided. Today, Dr Tracy Westerman on what’s really fuelling intimate partner violence in Aboriginal communities – and how to stop women from being killed. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Dr Tracy Westerman. Photo: AAP / Lukas CochSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There’s one question Grace Tame is asked all the time: when is she going into politics? And her answer is always the same – never. Like many younger Australians, Tame is disillusioned with the two-party system, which she says serves a dwindling minority of morbidly wealthy players rather than the general public. But as Australia heads into an election where Gen Z and Millennials outnumber Baby Boomers for the first time, she thinks it’s a chance to move beyond the two-party games. Today, 2021 Australian of the Year and director of the Grace Tame Foundation, Grace Tame, on advocating for change outside of politics, and why this election is a chance to fix democracy. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: 2021 Australian of the Year and director of the Grace Tame Foundation, Grace Tame. Photo: Don Arnold/WireImageSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.