Saturday Magazine

Celebrated local designer and technologist Mel Huang Buntine, has built a shrine to the tender and personal side of computing. Embracing code as a creative medium, Mel brings together people, communities and computers that push our understanding of what computation can be. “My love letter to the personal computer” – Mel Huang Buntine ‘What if computation wasn't about speed, automation and scale but building slower, tender and more personal systems? Radical Computing, guest curated by Mel Huang Buntine, is a love letter to the personal computer and to all those who tinker, weave, extend, stretch, hack, subvert and make with the materiality of code’. .Owning your own computer was once a radical concept. When computers started entering our homes from the 1970s, computing was out of reach to most people. Affordable, small computers that could be built by everyday people changed this. From the raw energy of the Demoscene, Australia's early rave and hacker underground, to global creative coding and open-source software movements, Radical Computing celebrates those who have shaped, challenged and reimagined our world via code as a medium. Featuring commissions from artists like Chia Amisola and Chok Si Xuan, plus a revival of Laurie Spiegel's groundbreaking work Music Mouse, this exhibition is anything but a computer graveyard. Explore a vast array of personal computers from the Buntine Computer Collection, plus see a rare piece of computing history – NCM's latest acquisition, a Connection Machine CM-2, restored by our Collections and NCM Studio teams, in collaboration with its original industrial designer, Tamiko Thiel. Centring communities who have challenged traditional ideas of what computers are, how to use them and who they're for, this is an interactive exhibition for all ages The post Sat, 12th, Sept, 2026: Mel Huang Buntine; Radical Computing; National Communication Museum (NCM) appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Kenny talk to Todd Hacking; Chief Executive Officer; Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia. Todd holds a double degree in Arts (Politics) and Law from the University of Adelaide and is a Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors. He has forged a successful career advocating public policy solutions for a range of industries, including infrastructure, transport, land use planning, environment, safety, construction, and logistics. As CEO of Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia, the peak body for truck, trailer, component, equipment and technology manufacturers and suppliers, as well as being the custodian of the largest B2B event in Queensland, the Brisbane Truck Show, Todd is delving into the policy areas affecting the heavy vehicle industry. On weekends, he moonlights as a marriage celebrant, is an avid AFL fan, a horse racing enthusiast and is at his most comfortable cooking in the kitchen. The post Sat,12th Sept, 2026: Todd Hacking; Chief Executive Officer; Heavy Vehicle Industry Australia appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Senator Shoebridge is a NSW Greens senator and former barrister. Since June 2025 his federal portfolios include foreign affairs, defence, home affairs, justice and digital rights. He has attacked the government over what the Greens describe as a $29 billion defence blowout and argues procurement changes do not address structural waste or AUKUS risk. Digital accountability is live: the Senate recently ordered the Privacy Commissioner to release a report into American Express technology-security failures after a long-running investigation. He is also prominent in the debate over foreign-owned AI data centres, arguing that government policy must protect Australian jobs, water, energy and data rather than simply facilitate large US technology investments. Senator David Shoebridge profile and portfolios — Parliament of Australia, accessed 10 July 2026 David Shoebridge — latest media — Australian Greens, 1 July 2026 Senate orders release of American Express privacy report — ABC News, 2 July 2026 Angus Taylor attacks One Nation economic plan — ABC News, 9 July 2026 The post Sat,12th Sept, 2026: Sen. David Shoebridge Aust. Greens Sen. for NSW; State of affairs in Parliament appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Kenny are joined live on air by Tim Reardon, Chief Economist at the Housing Industry Assoc (HIA), Is the government pulling on the right levers to when it comes to building more homes? Macca and Fiona are joined live on air by Tim Reardon, Chief Economist at the Housing Industry Assoc (HIA), Is the government pulling on the right levers to when it comes to building more homes? Tim Reardon is the Chief Economist at the Housing Industry Association (HIA), where he leads the association’s economic research and policy advocacy for Australia’s residential building industry. In his most recent reports, Reardon identifies land supply as the primary constraint on Australian home building, rather than construction costs or interest rates.  Housing Industry Association | HIA +1 Land vs. Construction Costs: Since 2000, residential land prices have surged by over 500%, while construction costs and skilled labour have risen by approximately 150%. Infrastructure Taxes: He argues that government policies requiring developers to pay infrastructure fees upfront are “artificial” demand drivers that embed high costs into land prices, ultimately borne by home buyers. Cost of New Homes: HIA estimates that approximately $570,000 in various taxes, fees, and charges are embedded in the cost of a typical new house-and-land package.  Housing Industry Association | HIA +4 Releasing HIA's new report, Taxation of Housing and its Impact on Supply, Tim Reardon, Chief Economist of Housing Industry Association, said governments cannot make homes cheaper by taking more from them. “You don't fix a housing shortage by taxing housing harder,” Mr Reardon said. “And you certainly don't make homes more affordable by destabilising the tax settings that support new home construction.” The report finds that housing is already one of the most heavily taxed sectors in the Australian economy, with taxes applied at every stage of the housing lifecycle. Many of these taxes fall most heavily on new housing, directly increasing costs and reducing the feasibility of new projects. “The political reflex has been the same for decades,” Mr Reardon said. “First it was to blame investors. Then foreigners. Then foreign investors. Meanwhile governments quietly add more taxes, more charges and more costs to housing, and wonder why supply keeps falling short.” HIA's analysis shows that investors play a critical role in housing supply, commencing more than 40 per cent of new homes built in Australia, and an even higher share of apartments and rental housing. “When you discourage investors, you don't free up housing, you stop it being built,” Mr Reardon said. “Investors don't neatly switch from established homes into new construction when taxes rise. They leave the housing market altogether.” https://hia.com.au/our-industry/newsroom/economic-research-and-forecasting/2026/01/stop-taxing-housing-harder-if-you-want-more-homes-built-hia-warns?srsltid=AfmBOooQfowpfnhUyCDTwqExK1c2CmARBq5m-gcKQHUKra2ACDjQvc1g The post Sat,12th Sept, 2026: Tim Reardon, the Chief Economist at the Housing Industry Association (HIA) appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Kenny and Macca are joined live on air, by phone this week, not in the studio as usual, by Rachel Westaway, Lib Prahran, Shadow Asst Min Small Business + Hospitality as they discuss State politics. Rachel Westaway is an Australian politician serving as the member for Prahran in the Victorian Legislative Assembly since winning the 2025 Prahran state by-election. She is a member of the Victorian Liberal Party. With a background in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and as former Assistant Freedom of Information Commissioner for Victoria, she brings extensive experience in public service. Rachel has lived in South Yarra for 20 years and is actively involved in the community, including serving as President of the Thai Australian Chamber. Kieran Rooney is a Victorian state political reporter at The Age. Carrol gov fails to get WFH laws passed; IBAC reform at risk of collapse; One Nation’s Pickering drugs admission https://www.smh.com.au/national/victoria/who-in-this-country-has-not-tried-drugs-hanson-backs-pickering-in-explosive-interview-20260909-p60vy0.html https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/shameful-con-labor-proposes-last-minute-change-to-ibac-reform-20260907-p60v7q.html Victorians will next go to the polls in November 2026, with Labor under Premier Jacinta Allan seeking a fourth term in government. An article by Kieran published on the 13 th of July says voters are showing signs of drifting back to the major parties, but notes only 24% of survey respondents nominated Allan as their preferred premier, while 43% backed Liberal Jess Wilson. That said, the article also says only 23 per cent of Victorians remain uncommitted ahead of November 28, with more than three quarters of the 1,000 people surveyed by Resolve Political Monitor saying they had made up their minds. The post Sat,12th Sept, 2026: Rachel Westaway; Lib Prahran, Shadow Asst Min Small Business + Hospitality and Kieran Rooney; VIC State Political Reporter, The Age. appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Kieran Rooney is a Victorian state political reporter at The Age. Carrol gov fails to get WFH laws passed; IBAC reform at risk of collapse; One Nation’s Pickering drugs admission https://www.smh.com.au/national/victoria/who-in-this-country-has-not-tried-drugs-hanson-backs-pickering-in-explosive-interview-20260909-p60vy0.html https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/shameful-con-labor-proposes-last-minute-change-to-ibac-reform-20260907-p60v7q.html Victorians will next go to the polls in November 2026, with Labor under Premier Jacinta Allan seeking a fourth term in government. An article by Kieran published on the 13 th of July says voters are showing signs of drifting back to the major parties, but notes only 24% of survey respondents nominated Allan as their preferred premier, while 43% backed Liberal Jess Wilson. That said, the article also says only 23 per cent of Victorians remain uncommitted ahead of November 28, with more than three quarters of the 1,000 people surveyed by Resolve Political Monitor saying they had made up their minds. Kenny and Macca are joined live on air, by phone this week, not in the studio as usual, by Rachel Westaway, Lib Prahran, Shadow Asst Min Small Business + Hospitality as they discuss State politics. Rachel Westaway is an Australian politician serving as the member for Prahran in the Victorian Legislative Assembly since winning the 2025 Prahran state by-election. She is a member of the Victorian Liberal Party. With a background in the Administrative Appeals Tribunal and as former Assistant Freedom of Information Commissioner for Victoria, she brings extensive experience in public service. Rachel has lived in South Yarra for 20 years and is actively involved in the community, including serving as President of the Thai Australian Chamber. The post Sat,12th Sept, 2026: Kieran Rooney; VIC State Political Reporter, The Age; and Rachel Westaway; Lib Prahran, Shadow Asst Min Small Business + Hospitality appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Josh Burns, the federal Labor Member of Parliament for Macnamara, has been heavily involved in key national policy debates and shared significant personal milestones, including an adult ADHD diagnosis, his appointment as Special Envoy for Social Housing and Homelessness, and strong advocacy for gambling advertising reform. In August 2026, Josh Burns spoke publicly about receiving an adult ADHD diagnosis during an episode of the ABC TV series Kitchen Cabinet with Annabel Crabb. In May 2025, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese appointed Burns as the Special Envoy for Social Housing and Homelessness. Working alongside Housing Minister Clare O’Neil, Burns focuses heavily on addressing systemic shortages in the Australian housing market. Burns has stated that the housing market has long been stacked against young people. He has driven initiatives to specifically earmark a portion of the government’s planned 55,000 new social and affordable housing properties for youth-specific accommodation. He is a core defender of the federal government’s $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF) and has publicly pushed back against criticisms of rental stress, maintaining that aggressive infrastructure builds are necessary to decouple wages from out-of-control property prices. Interactive Gambling Amendment (Gambling Reform) Bill 2026, which passed through Parliament in August 2026. The post Sat,12th Sept, 2026: Josh Burns, MP Macnamara, ALP: Special Envoy for Social Housing and Homelessness appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Georgie Purcell is the Animal Justice Party Member of the Legislative Council for Northern Victoria, and her recent parliamentary advocacy has delivered major developments regarding transparency, native forests, koalas, and the greyhound racing industry. In September 2026, Georgie Purcell moved a “production of documents” motion in Parliament to force the release of an $850,000 taxpayer-funded study titled The Status of Victoria’s Koala Population: Surveys to Estimate Abundance, Genetic Diversity and Koala Health, which had been withheld since June 2025. Just minutes before her scheduled address, the State Government released the report and concurrently announced a $2.6 million commitment toward koala research, welfare, and habitat restoration. Purcell has continuously challenged the ongoing destruction of native forests, pushing back against legislative loopholes and exemptions that allow commercial timber operations or continued logging under alternative guises (such as fire management and safety mitigation) post-official phase-out. Purcell has heavily targeted the greyhound racing industry to increase integrity, accountability, and real-time welfare tracking. Her ongoing watchdog efforts—highlighted by campaigns focusing on GRV operations and monitoring (“moving cameras” and broadcast transparency)—strive to eliminate hidden injuries, track whole-of-life data for every registered greyhound, and expose practices occurring on and off the track. The post Sat,12th Sept, 2026: Georgie Purcell, Member Legislative Council, Nthrn Victoria, Animal Justice Party; Native forest logging; release of documents re: Koala population; GRV Moving Cameras appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

The flipside of Australia's often discussed housing crisis is a boom in new developments across Suburbia. But there's plenty to learn about making an investment in these areas. Lifestyle presenter Walt Collins knows all about that – his show New Neighbourhoods discusses showing us what display home trends are set to explode, how buyers can maximise their purchasing power, and what it really takes to build a community from the ground up. Walt Collins—acclaimed TV host, producer, and DIY enthusiast. Known for co-hosting Healthy Homes Australia (10+ seasons), Buy to Build, and Country House Facelift. New Neighbourhoods (9Life) Co-Host: Emmylou MacCarthy (lifestyle TV personality and social media creator). Production Team: Produced by BSTV in collaboration with Infront Media and industry partner Openlot.com.au. Focus Areas: Unpacking major housing developments across Australia; exploring display home trends; maximising buyer purchasing power; and inspecting essential infrastructure (schools, parks, transport) being built for new suburbs. Country Home Renovations (Country House Facelift) Walt recently renovated a 115-year-old historic homestead, Annie’s Hillhouse, in Kilmore, Victoria. Key expertise: Balancing modern rustic interiors with historic charm, navigating old-home challenges (termites, outdated wiring, structural shifts), incorporating smart lighting/heating, and choosing materials that complement the surrounding landscape. The post Sat, 5th, Sept, 2026: Walt Collins TV and Lifestyle presenter, New Neighbourhoods & Country Home Renovations appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Australians are passionate coffee drinkers, knocking back about two billion cups every year – but less than one per cent of all the coffee we consume is actually grown in Australia. But that could be about to change thanks to a new 5-year, $4 million national research investment. Rebecca Zentveld is the President of the Australian Grown Coffee Association and founder of Zentveld's Coffee Farm in the hills behind Byron Bay. She joins us now. Rebecca Zentveld is a pioneer of the Australian coffee industry. She established Zentveld's Coffee Plantation and Roastery in Newrybar (behind Byron Bay) in 1993 and serves as President of the Australian Grown Coffee Association (AGCA). She was the first person in NSW to grow and roast their own coffee. Launch of the Australian Coffee Research Program—a $4 million, five-year national research initiative led by AgriFutures Australia (Federal Government's Agricultural Research Body), Southern Cross University, Plant Health Australia, University of Queensland, and the AGCA. It is the largest coordinated R&D investment in Australian coffee history. Australia currently has around 40 commercial coffee growers farming ~400 hectares, producing roughly 800 tonnes of green coffee beans annually. This is very small. Australian grown beans make up about 1 per cent, if that, of Australia's total coffee consumption. Primary commercial hubs are the tropical Atherton Tablelands in Far North Queensland, as well as subtropical regions in south-east Queensland and northern NSW (like the Northern Rivers). Australia is one of the only coffee-growing regions in the world free of major exotic Arabica pests and diseases (meaning growers can produce near-pesticide-free, high-quality coffee). Core Program Goals: Evaluating higher-yielding, climate-suited coffee varietals. Improving farm mechanical harvesting, efficiency, and grower profitability. Strengthening biosecurity to defend against global threats like coffee leaf rust. Expanding commercial growing into new suitable microclimates across Australia. This new $4 million research investment brings together universities, biosecurity experts, and growers. From a grower’s perspective, what are the most urgent challenges on the farm that this research will help solve? You became a coffee roaster in Melbourne before returning to NSW. For those who haven’t tried Australian-grown coffee, how does the flavour profile compare to beans from South America or East Africa? What does our cool subtropical or tropical climate bring out in the bean? Global coffee supplies are under huge strain from climate change, pests, and disease in traditional growing countries. How important is our clean, pest-free biosecurity status here in Australia, and what risks is this research trying to safeguard us against? Harvesting coffee overseas often relies on low-cost manual labour, whereas Australian farms rely heavily on smart mechanical harvesting and technology. How can research help smaller Australian farms scale up efficiently to compete on price and availability? We’ve seen huge consumer shifts toward buying local produce, wine, and craft beer. Are you finding that local cafes and roasters are getting eager to feature 100% Australian-grown coffee on their menus? The post Sat, 5th, Sept, 2026: Rebecca Zentveld President, Australian Grown Coffee Association appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

They say all politics is local, and our next guest knows that all too well. The City of Port Phillip has parks to invest in, libraries and community facilities to run and services to provide ratepayers, but has found itself also chiming in recently on the Royal Commission into anti-semitism and the construction of AI Data Centres. Mayor Alex Makin joins us to what he's been up to this month. Cr Alex Makin, elected Councillor for Montague Ward in November 2024 and chosen by his council colleagues as Mayor of Port Phillip for the 2025/2026 term. Prior to moving to Port Melbourne in 2013, he served as a councillor and independent mayor at Maroondah City Council. Senate AI and Data Centres Inquiry: The City of Port Phillip made 20 recommendations to the Senate Inquiry last month, stating that fast-tracked planning pathways are locking local councils and residents out of having a say. Among their recommendations were: Mandatory consultation with local councils before approvals. Stronger sustainability rules (requiring recycled water and 100% renewable energy use). Nationally consistent planning standards so tech companies can’t exploit weak zones. Greater transparency and public reporting on energy, water and environmental performance Stronger accountability measures Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion The City of Port Phillip made a submission to the Royal Commission in June, and Alex went to Sydney to appear before them and give evidence supporting it. Port Phillip—home to historical Jewish communities in St Kilda, Ripponlea, and Balaclava—has seen local safety and belonging affected by antisemitism, following incidents like the 2024 Adass Israel Synagogue attack and the 2025 Bondi attack. Council's Practical Actions include Place-based planning (CPTED safety design, lighting), rapid response to hate graffiti, strong partnerships (e.g., City of Glen Eira), and visible civic leadership. What Council is Advocating For: Moving beyond crisis response to long-term funding; better data sharing; and formal recognition of local councils as critical delivery partners in social cohesion and prevention. Closure of Coventry Childcare Centre Council is planning to close the Coventry Children's Centre (next to the South Melbourne Markets) for at least two years, disbanding the staff and centre that uses the facility, and instead using Coventry to accommodate children from other centres as they are upgraded. A funded redevelopment plan of two other childcare centres in the City of Port Phillip, the Clarendon Community Managed Centre and Lilian Canam Centre, will not proceed until a suitable site for THEIR children is found – hence the decision to move them to Coventry. Council has now deferred that decision to 16 September as they assess whether they can find new funding to keep the roughly 30 children who are looked after at the facility at that base – which is operating at 48% of its capacity. Makin has likened this plan to kicking the can down the road as he feels council is unlikely to find that money in a month. But there has been backlash over the plan to disband the existing childcare group at Coventry, as no long-term decision has been made about its future as a childcare centre. The post Sat, 5th, Sept, 2026: Cr Alex Makin Mayor, City of Port Phillip appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Joining us in the studio now is a voice you know well here on JOY 94.9: David Hunt, long-time presenter and producer of JOY's Sunday Arts Magazine! Today marks what would have been the 80th birthday of a true global icon, Queen frontman Freddie Mercury. David is here to reflect on Freddie's enduring legacy, his place in queer culture, and how his extraordinary artistry continues to resonate across generations. Welcome, David! David Hunt hosts Sunday Arts Magazine on JOY 94.9 (airing Sundays 12:00–1:00 PM). He is deeply embedded in Melbourne’s arts scene, with a background covering visual art, theatre, and music history. Freddie Mercury (born Farrokh Bulsara on September 5, 1946) would be celebrating his 80th birthday on September 5, 2026. The Intersection of Opera & Rock: Mercury's theatricality, multi-octave vocal range, and passion for classical arts. How Freddie navigated his identity as a bisexual man of Parsi heritage in the 1970s and 80s—existing at the absolute peak of mainstream stardom while maintaining a complex relationship with public openness. AIDS Legacy & Advocacy: His passing in November 1991, the impact on global HIV/AIDS awareness, and the establishment of the Mercury Phoenix Trust. Arts Connection: How his stagecraft borrowed heavily from ballet, theatre, and fine arts, bridging high art and arena rock. The post Sat, 5th, Sept, 2026: The Life and Legacy of Freddie Mercury with David Hunt, Sunday Arts appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Joining us on Saturday Magazine now is Ged Kearney, the Federal Member for Cooper, Assistant Minister for Social Services, and Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence. Ged and Special Envoy for Men's Health, Dan Repacholi, have recently launched the National Healthy Men Community Conversations initiative—a nationwide tour meeting with boys, young men, and community groups to discuss health, mental wellbeing, positive masculinity, and respectful relationships. Ged joins us to talk about how engaging blokes early can break cycles of violence and help build healthier communities. Welcome back to JOY, Ged! Ged Kearney MP—Federal Member for Cooper (inner north Melbourne). Former nurse, former ACTU President, now Assistant Minister for Social Services and Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence. The Campaign / Initiative: National Healthy Men Community Conversations: A national listening tour launched alongside Special Envoy Dan Repacholi. Core Objectives: Connecting men with local health/mental health support, fostering open discussions on healthy expressions of masculinity, promoting respectful relationships, and tackling toxic online influences or harmful cultural norms. Recent Engagements: Listening sessions in Sydney with ACON (focusing on LGBTQIA+ inclusive masculinity workshop Joining us on Saturday Magazine now is Ged Kearney, the Federal Member for Cooper, Assistant Minister for Social Services, and Assistant Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence. Ged and Special Envoy for Men's Health, Dan Repacholi, have recently launched the National Healthy Men Community Conversations initiative—a nationwide tour meeting with boys, young men, and community groups to discuss health, mental wellbeing, positive masculinity, and respectful relationships. Ged joins us to talk about how engaging blokes early can break cycles of violence and help build healthier communities. Welcome back to JOY, Ged! The post Sat, 5th, Sept, 2026: Ged Kearney Assist. Min. for Social Services & Prevention of Family Violence appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Joining us on Saturday Magazine now is Dr Emma Shortis, Director of International and Security Affairs at the Australia Institute and author of After America. This week marks the 75th anniversary of the ANZUS Treaty, but instead of critical reflection on our security ties, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles was in Washington meeting with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. With the US confirming plans to accelerate its military footprint on Australian soil, Emma is here to discuss what this means for Australian sovereignty and whether our foreign policy needs an urgent overhaul. Welcome back to JOY, Emma! 75th Anniversary of ANZUS: Marking three-quarters of a century of the alliance. Marles in Washington: Deputy PM and Defence Minister Richard Marles met with US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, resulting in headlines that the US will “accelerate military presence in Australia”. Uncritical Alliance Alignment: Shortis argues the Australian government refuses to interrogate the actions or internal politics of the US administration, opting instead for automatic compliance under the banner of being “good friends”. Controversies Surrounding Pete Hegseth: Points to US military actions in the Pacific/Caribbean, as well as sweeping ideological purges within the US military oversight under Hegseth’s tenure. Divergence in Values: Highlighting the disconnect between Australia's rhetoric on the “international rules-based order” and the actions of top US defense leadership. Alternative Foreign Policy: Recommends a pivot toward sovereign, independent foreign policy, pointing to new work by her colleague Allan Behm (New Game, New Rules: A foreign policy for dystopian times). The post Sat, 5th, Sept, 2026: Dr Emma Shortis; Dir International & Security Affairs Program, The Australia Institute; and host of the After America podcast appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

In the face of ongoing cost-of-living pressure, housing affordability hurdles, and new debates within the government over housing and migration policies, our next guest is the man with the Coalition's vision to change things. Tim Wilson is the Shadow Treasurer of Australia and the Federal Member for Goldstein. Welcome back to Joy, Tim. Tim Wilson MP, Shadow Treasurer and Federal Member for Goldstein (Victoria). Human Rights Commissioner (2014–2016): Focused on free speech, economic freedom, and equality. Parliamentary Record: Elected as MP for Goldstein in 2016, served as Assistant Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction (2021–2022), lost the seat to independent Zoe Daniel in 2022, and staged an historic comeback to win the seat back in 2025. Current Portfolio: Appointed Shadow Treasurer in early 2026. Key Economic & Policy Focus Areas: Housing & Home Ownership: Long-time advocate for getting young Australians into home ownership, including allowing first-home buyers to access their superannuation for home deposits (a central theme of his book, The New Social Contract). Opposes changes that restrict housing supply or disincentivize housing investment. Taxation & Cost of Living: Focuses on tax relief, government spending restraint, and energy affordability to tackle inflation. Social & Community Values: Prominent advocate for marriage equality as one of the key Liberal MPs who championed the legislation in 2017. The post Sat, 5th, Sept, 2026: Tim Wilson MP, Shadow Treasurer & Member for Goldstein appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Paul are in the hosting sits this week, as they discuss the week that was, news, views, and reviews. Macca also regales us with some anecdotes from his recent trip to Taiwan. The post Sat, 5th, Sept, 2026: Weekly Wrap Up with Macca and Paul. appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Discussing the life, legacy, and cultural impact of Dolly Parton, following her passing. Mike and his wife/collaborator, Fiona Harris, adapted the hit Dolly Parton musical comedy Here You Come Again for its Australian season last year. This week, the world lost a true global icon, a master storyteller, and one of the most beloved figures in music history: Dolly Parton. While she was famous for her signature sparkle and country hits, her influence reached far beyond the stage—touching millions with her wit, generosity, and message of radical acceptance. Joining us on Saturday Magazine to reflect on her life and legacy is actor, writer, and musician Mike McLeish—who, along with his wife Fiona Harris, adapted the hit Dolly Parton musical comedy Here You Come Again for Australian audiences. Welcome to JOY, Mike. Here You Come Again: The musical centres on a struggling fan whose fantasy version of Dolly helps him navigate life’s toughest moments. How Mike and Fiona grounded Dolly's distinctly Southern Appalachian wit for Australian audiences. The post Sat, 29th, August, 2026: Tribute to Dolly Parton: “Here You Come Again”; Mike McLeish (Actor, Writer, Musician, Songwriter) appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Last month, thousands of researchers, advocates, and community leaders gathered in South America for AIDS 2026—the 26th International AIDS Conference in Rio de Janeiro – tackling everything from long-acting treatments to the fight against health inequality. Joining us on Saturday Magazine is Richard Keane, CEO of Living Positive Victoria, who can tell us what the latest news means for our community to ensure no one is left behind. Record Single-Year Decline: Global donor government funding for HIV dropped by 25% in 2025—the largest single-year plunge since international funding scale-up began in 2002. Driven by the US: The massive shortfall was driven entirely by steep declines, funding delays, and project cancellations in US international health support. The Funding Emergency: Global rollbacks—driven heavily by the US administration's severe cuts to the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) and USAID, along with reduced contributions from European nations—have resulted in over 1,700 clinic closures, thousands of health worker job losses, and up to a 64% drop in PrEP initiations in sub-Saharan Africa. Breakthrough Science: Major developments presented included twice-yearly injectable PrEP (Lenacapavir), once-weekly oral treatment combinations (ISLEND-1 & 2 trials), a potential $15/year monthly preventive oral drug (alimatravir), and two new cases of long-term HIV remission. Shift toward government-to-government aid models and the exclusion of “key populations” (gay men, trans people, sex workers) in funding guidelines are emboldening anti-LGBTQIA+ legislation and pushing vulnerable communities out of decision-making. In 2025, there were 1.2 million new HIV acquisitions and 570,000 AIDS-related deaths worldwide, with new acquisitions climbing in Brazil, Pakistan, the Philippines, and Madagascar, while Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, Rwanda, and Zimbabwe are making progress toward 2030 targets. Low- and middle-income countries stepped up, increasing domestic HIV spending by 4% in 2025 (accounting for nearly 60% of total global HIV funding). Over 55 countries committed to further increases in 2026. UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima warned that “the era of relying on international aid is over,” calling for urgent global debt restructuring so developing nations can fund their own health infrastructure. The post Sat, 29th, August, 2026: Richard Keane, CEO of Living Positive Victoria; HIV/AIDS and Global Health Update appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

We're coming out of winter now and some might say we're leaving flu season behind – but the same can't be said of our feathered friends. As of last might there have been 354 positive events of the H5N1 bird flu across Australia, 203 in South Australia and 112 in Victoria. Joining us on Saturday Magazine is Dr Fernando Gordillo-Altamirano. He's a medical doctor and infectious disease researcher at The Alfred Hospital and Monash University – and he's got more than a few pointers about how to stay one step ahead. Fernando, welcome to JOY! The post Sat, 29th, August, 2026: Dr Fernando Gordillo-Altamirano Medical Doctor, Postdoctoral Researcher at VICPhage / Department of Infectious Diseases at The Alfred & Monash University appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Every October, Melbourne's streets, iconic concert halls and late-night venues come alive with the sound of world-class improvisers, global icons, and groundbreaking local creators. Now in its 29th year, the Melbourne International Jazz Festival is Australia's largest festival of its kind and a major fixture on the global stage. Joining us on Saturday Magazine is the festival’s Executive Producer, Tom Browne. Welcome to Joy, Tom! Key Background MIJF is preparing for its 29th edition this October. It stands as Australia's largest jazz festival and one of the world’s premier international jazz events. Key Festival Stats & Highlights: Scale: 10 days every October; 130+ performances; 550+ artists; drawing 60,000+ attendees. Venues: Iconic Melbourne spaces, from major concert halls (Sidney Myer Music Bowl, Hamer Hall, Melbourne Recital Centre) to intimate jazz clubs and city streets. Programming Pillars: Modern Masters: Bringing legendary global icons to perform alongside top Australian talent. Australian Voice: Commissioning new works and showcasing local artists shaping the future of Australian jazz. Accessibility: At least 35% of the program is completely free or low-cost to ensure broad community engagement. The post Sat, 29th, August, 2026: Tom Browne Executive Producer, Melbourne International Jazz Festival appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Next sitting week, the Victorian Parliament will receive the final report from the landmark Inquiry into Historical LGBTIQA+ Hate Crimes—a pivotal moment for justice, accountability, and healing in our state. Meanwhile, our community also came together recently to celebrate the incredible grassroots advocates, volunteers, and leaders nominated at the GLOBE Victorian Community Awards. To discuss what he's seen, and what he'd like to see, is Aiv Puglielli, Victorian Greens MLC for North-Eastern Metropolitan Region and spokesperson for Equality. Aiv is joining Saturday Magazine to discuss the upcoming report from the Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry into Historical LGBTIQA+ Hate Crimes (tabled next sitting week) and celebrate local leaders following the GLOBE Victorian Community Awards. LGBTIQA+ Hate Crimes Inquiry: The inquiry investigated historical hate crimes, police responses, anti-LGBTIQA+ violence, institutional accountability, and redress for victims/survivors. Aiv and the Greens have pushed for clear, actionable recommendations: formal state apologies, restorative justice frameworks, dedicated cold-case resources, and mandatory hate-crime recording mechanisms. GLOBE Victorian Community Awards: Celebrating grassroots achievements across community leadership, advocacy, sports, and business. Provides a upbeat counterweight to the sobering inquiry topic. Greens Equality Platform: Pushing for legislative protections against hate speech/vilification, increased state funding for community-led peer support, and structural safety across public spaces. The post Sat, 29th, August, 2026: Aiv Puglielli, Legislative Council Member for North Eastern Metropolitan, The Australian Greens appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Appointed to the Equality portfolio in August 2026. He steps into the role with extensive senior cabinet experience across several portfolios, serving as the State Member for Oakleigh since 2014. He will be driving Victoria’s LGBTIQ+ Strategy, funding community-led health and peer support initiatives, and upholding anti-discrimination and conversion therapy ban protections. Holds the Sport and WorkSafe/TAC portfolios alongside Equality, providing opportunities to address inclusion, anti-vilification, and mental health in sports and workplaces. Former Mayor and Councillor for the City of Monash before entering state parliament, with a focus on public infrastructure, community services, and inclusion. Breaking Announcement (Sat 29 Aug 2026): Minister Dimopoulos has just announced a fresh round of LGBTIQA+ Organisational Development Grants delivering up to $40,000 each to 13 community organisations across Victoria. The post Sat, 29th, August, 2026: Steve Dimopoulos MP, Minister for Equality, Minister for Sport, Minister for WorkSafe and the TAC; Member for Oakleigh appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

From the coastal parks of Port Melbourne to the bustling cultural precinct of Fitzroy Street, the electorate of Albert Park sits at the very heart of Melbourne's LGBTQIA+ history and community life. Joining us on Saturday Magazine today is Nina Taylor MP, State Member for Albert Park. Today, we're checking in on the local issues affecting inner-south residents—from housing and public transport to protecting our live music venues, supporting the Victorian Pride Centre, and keeping our community precincts safe and vibrant. Welcome to JOY, Nina! Nina was appointed Cabinet Secretary in Ben Carroll's reshufffle. Albert Park Electorate: Highly dense, vibrant arts and culture precinct with major infrastructure projects, nightlife safety, and coastal environmental protection. Queer & Inclusive Community Hubs: Represents the heartland of Melbourne’s Pride history (including Fitzroy Street, the Pride Centre, and the annual Midsumma Pride March route). State Policy Priorities: Equality policy, housing affordability and rental rights, public transport upgrades, local school infrastructure, and urban greenspace preservation. Queer / Community Relevance: Nina represents the electorate housing the Victorian Pride Centre in St Kilda. She is a regular voice on local community safety, funding for peer-led LGBTQIA+ health and support services, and government initiatives aimed at preserving live music and queer nightlife precincts in the The post Sat, 29th, August, 2026: Nina Taylor MP Cabinet Secretary, Member of the Victorian Legislative Assembly for Albert Park, Australian Labor Party appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Women over 55 are currently the fastest-growing demographic experiencing homelessness in Australia, with many finding themselves facing housing crises due to rising living costs, illness, or relationship breakdowns. Brisbane charity The Forgotten Women is working to change that—and Jade Fitzgerald has been supporting The Forgotten Women project for four years, raising funds by participating in its Live Like Her Challenge which sees participants spend a night sleeping in their cars—and throwing some fabulous drag bingo fundraisers along the way! Jade joins us today, with her brother Vern and on the other line we have Brisbane's own iconic entertainer Abril LaTrene! Welcome to Joy 94.9, Jade, and Abril! ‘ Four years ago, Jade wanted to support a charity where she could make a tangible impact. As a buyer’s agent who helps people secure property, learning that over 40,000 women over 55 in Queensland face housing insecurity hit home. She realised how quickly life can unravel through illness, relationship breakdown, family violence, or rent hikes. The Two-Pronged Solution (Micro-Grants + Brick & Mortar): Immediate Relief / Micro-Grants: Small intervention amounts can prevent homelessness entirely—such as a $50/week rental top-up to bridge housing costs or a fuel voucher so a woman can travel to work and keep her income. Long-Term Housing: Building purpose-built housing developments in Redland City, which is located between Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The Live Like Her Challenge: Jade is in her 4th consecutive year sleeping in her car for the challenge, joined by Vern (2nd year). While a single night in a car cannot replicate chronic homelessness, it offers a sobering window into the vulnerability of having no safe door to lock. The Fundraiser (Glitter Balls & Bingo Calls): Abril LaTrene is adding drag flair and entertainment to lower entry barriers and bring the community together for fundraising. The post Sat, 22nd August, 2026: ‘Live Like Her Challenge;’ Jade Fitzgerald – Founder of The Ideal Buyer's Agency; Abril LaTrene– Drag Artist & Host of Glitter Balls & Bingo Calls appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Finding the right job is about much more than just a paycheck or a flashy title—it’s about whether you can turn up as your full, authentic self without fear. But when you're looking at a new employer, how do you know if their commitment to diversity is genuine, or just a rainbow logo printed on a flyer?” They say. CB Bonnar has spent much of their career navigating workplace culture and spotting green and red flags in recruitment. Today a Senior Relationship Manager at Pride in Diversity, CB will help queer jobseekers get a look at how to navigate workplace culture. CB joins us now – CB welcome to Joy 94.9! Guest Context: CB Bonnar is a strategic leader in LGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion with a background in corporate engagement and community impact (previously at Officeworks). As a neurodivergent advocate, CB focuses on systemic change, policy development, organisational culture, and the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI)—Australia's national benchmark for LGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion. About Pride in Diversity: A program of ACON, Pride in Diversity is Australia’s national employer support program specialising in LGBTQIA+ workplace inclusion. They advise major employers across corporate, public, and non-profit sectors on transforming policies into lived workplace culture. The post Sat, 22nd August, 2026: CB Bonnar, Senior Relationship Manager, Pride in Diversity appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

If you've ever found yourself in the local dog park using a voice three octaves higher than your normal speaking tone to ask a Golden Retriever who's a ‘good boy,’ don’t worry—science says you're completely normal. Research shows that the way we speak to our pets shares a deep evolutionary link with how we talk to human babies. But do our dogs, cats, and birds actually care, or are we just making silly noises? Joining us today to unpack the science of pet-talk, baby-talk, and why our voices go squeaky around fuzzy creatures is Antonia Goetz, Research Fellow in Infant Studies at Western Sydney University. Welcome to Joy 94.9, Antonia! The Core Science: Humans instinctively alter pitch, melody, and rhythm when speaking to subjects with limited language comprehension – whether they are pets or even human infants. High-pitched, sing-songy speech acts as a vocal “wave of the hand” to grab attention and establish psychological safety. The key difference is, when people speak to babies, they hyper-articulate their words, (exaggerating vowels like “eee” in “sheep”) to teach vocabulary. We don't do this with most pets as it’s pure emotional bonding, not language instruction. Where it does differ is Parrots – which people articulate for a little – possibly in order to teach it to speak. Puppies and adult dogs pay attention longer, move closer, and follow human gestures (like pointing to food) far more effectively when spoken to in high-pitched “pet-talk.” Humans also feel better when they hear their vets talk to their pets in a similar way. A 2024 study showed women with only a pet speak to them with the same vocal warmth as mothers speak to babies. However, parents with both a baby and a pet soften their vocal warmth toward the pet when attention is split. The post Sat, 22nd August, 2026: “Baby Talking to your Pets”; Antonia Goetz, Research Fellow in Infant Studies, West Syd Uni appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

When major news breaks, the headlines we read and the press conferences we watch are rarely unvarnished truth—they are carefully crafted narratives designed to manage outrage, protect commercial interests, or pass tricky legislation. This week provided a masterclass in public communications on two massive fronts. In Canberra, the Federal Government struck a dramatic ‘backroom deal’ with the Coalition to pass watered-down gambling reforms and sweeping NDIS cuts. Meanwhile in Melbourne, the Sydney Swans entered full crisis-management mode, suspending five star players for the rest of the season following a high-profile hotel incident now under police investigation. Joining us today to look beneath the spin and dissect how these stories are being sold to the Australian public is writer, creative director and co-host of 3RRR's Spin Cycle, Jess Lilley. Jess Lilley brings a sharp dual lens as a commercial creative director/copywriter (specializing in behaviour change campaigns) and co-host of 3RRR's Spin Cycle. She is an expert at dissecting how governments, corporate lobbies, and sporting institutions construct narratives to manage public perception and shift focus away from uncomfortable truths. The post Sat, 22nd August, 2026: Jess Lilley Writer, Broadcaster, Creative Director, Co-Host of 3RRR’s Spin Cycle appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nev and Paul are joined live on air by Daniel Casey Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at (ACU). For around an hour every sitting day, federal parliament descends into what often looks like an all-in verbal brawl. Question Time was meant to be the ultimate test of ministerial accountability, but 35 years after cameras were first allowed into the chamber, critics argue it's turned into theatrical point-scoring. A new study analysing over 21,000 parliamentary questions over four decades reveals Prime Ministers facing twice as many direct attacks as they used to, while Opposition Leaders are stepping back from the microphone. Joining us to unpack those results is study co-author Daniel Casey, Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at Australian Catholic University. Welcome to Joy 94.9, Daniel! https://theconversation.com/question-time-has-been-televised-for-35-years-we-tracked-how-it-has-changed-and-what-it-means-for-australian-democracy-289975 Dr Daniel Casey is a lecturer of Politics and International Relations at the Australian Catholic University. He researches the responsiveness of political elites to public opinion. His PhD research focused on letters from members of the public to Prime Minister Howard. His other research interests include government transparency and accountability; public administration; and the training and mentoring of PhD candidates. Prior to academia, he had an extensive career in the Australian Public Service, working across central and social policy agencies. He has also worked for Members of Parliament and peak NGOs. The post Sat, 22nd August, 2026: Daniel Casey Lecturer in Politics and International Relations at (ACU) appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and Paul are back in the hosting seats this week, as they discuss the news, views, reviews of the week that was; as they also highlight the guests for this week. The post Sat, 22nd August, 2026: Weekly Wrap Up with Nevena and Paul appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and John discuss the mass student walk-out during the week, in an anti-racism, anti-Pauline Hanson protest. Students around the country walked out of school to join protests in capital cities and some regions against One Nation and its leader Pauline Hanson. The rallies have been condemned by Ms Hanson, who wrote a message to students on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), saying: “Whether you know it or not, One Nation and I are fighting for you.” In Melbourne, hundreds of students gathered outside the State Library in the CBD carrying anti-One Nation signs, banners and a pinata designed to look like Ms Hanson which was broken apart to reveal lollies. Organised by the National Union of Students, the rally saw speeches from both high school students and political leaders, including former Victorian Greens leader Samantha Ratnam. Ms Ratnam said she was impressed by the turnout. “It gives me hope that we can stop the rise of One Nation,” she said. “Everything is on the line right now.” Courtesy of ABC. The post Sat, 15th, August, 2026: The Anti-Pauline Hanson Student Protests! appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and John discuss the plight of David McBride. Former Australian Army military lawyer David McBride  was released from a Canberra prison on parole after serving a 27-month non-parole period, having been sentenced in May 2024 to five years and eight months for leaking classified defense documents that exposed alleged war crimes in Afghanistan. McBride was sentenced to a maximum five years and eight months in jail in May 2024, but is being released on parole after serving his full non-parole period of 27 months. McBride pleased guilty to three charges in November after the ACT supreme court upheld a commonwealth intervention to withhold key evidence the government argued had the potential to jeopardise “the security and defence of Australia”. The charges included stealing commonwealth information and passing that on to journalists at the ABC. The attorney general, Michelle Rowland, approved McBride's release on Thursday. A spokesperson for Rowland confirmed his release to Guardian Australia.  “Mr McBride's parole was considered and granted,” the spokesperson said. “The government does not provide specific commentary or details about individual parole matters.” https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2026/aug/13/david-mcbride-released-jail-prison-parole The post Sat, 15th, August, 2026: The Plight David McBride; Whistleblower! appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

We are officially at the halfway mark of the 74th Melbourne International Film Festival! Over 300 films, retrospectives, and red-carpet galas have been taking over Melbourne’s cinemas. But beyond the popcorn and packed theatres, what does the festival tell us about the state of cinema today—and where local Australian stories fit on the world stage? Joining us is MIFF Artistic Director, Al Cossar. The 74th edition features over 300 films, shorts, and XR experiences. Due to record audience demand, MIFF expanded into Southbank (Village Cinemas Crown) alongside staple venues like ACMI, The Capitol, Kino, and The Forum. There's a strong presence of Australian feature premieres (including The Fox and Sweet Milk Lake in the $140,000 Bright Horizons competition), plus queer cinema highlights like John Cameron Mitchell's live 25th-anniversary event for Hedwig and the Angry Inch. The post Sat, 15th, August, 2026: Al Cossar Artistic Director, Melbourne International Film Festival appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and John are joined live on air by James Noble, Creative director and founder of Reigner Clothing. James Noble is an Australian fashion designer, film producer, and the founder and creative director of Reigner Clothing, an eclectic Melbourne-based label famous for its vibrant, rhinestone-encrusted, and heavily embroidered western-style suiting Noble originally worked in film production and hated traditional, corporate clothing. When planning his wedding to prominent Melbourne jeweller Millie Savage, he refused to wear a “boring old suit.” He decided to craft a Nudie Cohn-inspired rhinestone suit himself, sparking the official launch of Reigner Clothing in early 2020. Noble draws visual inspiration from retro Vegas casinos, California deserts, native Australian wildlife, and legendary country music tailors. His bespoke garments frequently feature playful, hyper-customised elements ranging from bedazzled eagles to pearl-encrusted prawns. The post Sat, 15th August, 2026: James Noble, Creative director and founder of Reigner Clothing; State of Fashion in Melbourne appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena and John are joined live on air by  Elliot Constable, who  was recently crowned the winner of Race Around the World, bringing to an end 100 days on the road. Unlike previous weeks, contestants on the ABC iview series were able to select their own destination for the reboot’s finale. For Constable, it was the favelas of Brazil. Topping the leaderboard of six filmmakers, Constable has won the crown and funding to produce his own project for the ABC. The post Sat, 15th August, 2026: Elliot Constable, Filmmaker, Race Around the World Winner appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

From the death of underworld matriarch Kath Pettingill to the tragic killing of Sunshine shopkeeper Van Viet Truong, Melbourne’s crime headlines have felt non-stop lately. At the same time, fire-bombings linked to illegal tobacco are allegedly spilling over into Melbourne’s bars and nightlife. But are these just isolated headlines, or is the face of crime in our city fundamentally changing? ABC Crime Reporter Olivia Jenkins joins us now to make sense of it all. Welcome to Saturday Magazine, Olivia Two men have been charged and one arrested after a joint agency investigation into the alleged movement of millions of dollars in cash from Tasmania to Victoria, suspected to be the proceeds of crime from the sale of illicit tobacco. The action was the result of a long-term Tasmania Joint Organised Crime Taskforce (TAS JOCTF) investigation into illicit tobacco in Tasmania. A 33-year-old from Hoppers Crossing, Victoria, and a 22-year-old from Sorell, Tasmania, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court on 12 August, 2026. Both were charged with knowingly dealing proceeds of crime and recklessly dealing proceeds of crime. They face a maximum sentence of 25 years’ imprisonment if convicted. It is alleged they facilitated the movement of criminal proceeds in cash from Tasmania and Victoria using hire cars and a commercial passenger and freight vessel. Both were bailed to reappear at the court on 2 December, 2026. During the search warrants, officers seized more than $2.5 million worth of tobacco product, more than $1 million in cash, 9kg of silver bars (worth more than $30,000) and one ounce of gold (worth more than $4000). Police also seized five imitation firearms, including a gel blaster firearm, three registered firearms, a .22 rifle and ammunition, a cash-counting machine and mobile devices. The Sunshine Tragedy: Shopkeeper Van Viet Truong (60) died after allegedly intervening in a youth theft outside his grocery store. Five teenagers were charged (a 15-yo with manslaughter has been remanded in custody; others granted bail). Kath Pettingill’s Death (Age 91): Matriarch of the infamous family tied to the 1988 Walsh St police killings. Serves as the historical marker for Melbourne’s “old” underworld—identifiable family hierarchies now replaced by untraceable digital networks. Dating App Arrests: Five teenagers, aged between 16 and 18, have been arrested this week after allegedly using dating apps to lure men before assaulting and robbing them. To date, 47 similar arrests have been made across the state. Police say they have seen similar incidents occur right across the state, “particularly in local government areas taking in Manningham, Casey, Hume, Moorabbin and Knox”. Olivia Jenkins is the ABC’s crime reporter in Melbourne. She is the winner of a Young Walkley for public service journalism and has been the Melbourne Press Club’s young journalist of the year. She was previously a crime reporter at the Herald Sun The post Sat, 15th August, 2026: Olivia Jenkins, ABC Crime Reporter; Crime in Melbourne: what is changing, who is behind it, and are police and governments keeping up? appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

A new Premier, new rules for how we vote, and growing fights over energy and workplace rights—Victorian politics is undergoing a massive reset. Premier Ben Carroll is attempting to carve out a ‘new direction’ for Labor, but with intense pressure over state debt, construction rorts, and controversial legislation, can he reset the narrative in time? With his take is Anthony Galloway, Victorian Political Editor of The Australian. Anthony had a story last week that the Victorian Labor Government had explored privatising Melbourne Water for five years to rescue the state's finances. Named “Project Nerva”, the business case examined ways to attract private investment to fund infrastructure upgrades, such as the Western Treatment Plant. Ben Carroll has been under pressure to rule out doing any sale in the future but is yet to do so. Jacinta Allan announced yesterday that she would not contest the next election after her resignation as Premier. Political Stakes: With the November State Election fast approaching, Carroll has very little time to turn around Labor's polling trajectory while facing aggressive attacks from Coalition Leader Jess Wilson on budget waste and project blowouts. Anthony Galloway is The Australian's Victorian political editor, having reported on some of the nation's biggest security and political stories over the past decade. He was previously foreign affairs and national security correspondent at The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, chief political correspondent at Capital Brief and earlier a political reporter at the Herald Sun. The post Sat, 15th August, 2026: Anthony Galloway, Victorian Political Editor, The Australian appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Nevena is in the hosting seat this week and her very special guest host is Author and  Media personality John Safran, as they discuss what’s coming up on this week’s programme and the week that was in news, views and reviews. The post Sat, 15th August, 2026: Weekly Wrap Up with Nevena and John Safran appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Fiona, Robbie, Kenny, John and Macca are joined live on air by Reverend Tim Costello — Alliance for Gambling Reform The federal government’s proposed gambling reforms have come under sustained criticism from anti-gambling-harm advocates, and this week Reverend Tim Costello told a Senate committee that the legislation fails the Prime Minister’s own tests for reform. Costello argues that the bill doesn’t do enough to separate gambling from sport, protect children or reduce the saturation of gambling advertising. He says Australia needs a national gambling regulator, a ban on inducements and stronger action on gambling advertising — and argues that incremental reform simply won’t work. Reverend Tim Costello is Chief Advocate for the Alliance for Gambling Reform, and he joins us now. Reverend Tim Costello put some very strong arguments to a Senate committee this week. He told senators that the proposed gambling legislation is, in his words, a “lineball” call as to whether it is actually better than the status quo. He also argued that Australia needs a national regulator, stronger restrictions on inducements and a much tougher approach to gambling advertising. The post Sat, 8th August, 2026: Reverend Tim Costello — Alliance for Gambling Reform appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Kenny are joined by Fiona Patten — Former Victorian MP &a Incoming CEO, Medical Cannabis Council and Robbie Swanks live in the studio Before she was a Victorian MP, Fiona Patten spent years campaigning on some of the issues politicians were often most uncomfortable talking about — sex, censorship, reproductive rights and personal freedom. She went on to help establish the Australian Sex Party with her partner, Robbie Swan, and eventually took that campaign for law reform into the Victorian Parliament. Now, as she prepares to move to Canberra to become CEO of the Medical Cannabis Council, another chapter of that story is being told in Robbie Swan’s new book, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Sex Party. It’s part memoir, part social history — and a look at the strange intersection of the sex industry, politics, censorship and activism in Australia. The post Sat, 8th August, 2026: Fiona Patten, Former Victorian MP; Incoming CEO, Medical Cannabis Council appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

There has been a reshuffle in the Victorian Government — and one of the changes particularly relevant to our listeners is the decision to move Vicki Ward out of the Equality portfolio. Vicki is now Minister for Public Transport and Creative Industries, while the Equality portfolio has gone to Steve Dimopoulos, an openly gay minister. So what does that change mean for Victoria’s LGBTQIA+ communities? Does it represent a change in priorities for the government, or simply a reshuffling of ministerial responsibilities? And what does Vicki Ward want to achieve in her new portfolios? She’s joining us on Saturday Magazine. The post Saturday, 8th August, 2026: Vicki Ward ,Victorian MP, Minister for Public Transport &; Creative Industries appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

This year’s Census represents a pretty significant change for Australia’s trans, gender-diverse and non-binary communities. For the first time, Australians aged 16 and over will be asked about their gender, alongside a separate question about sex recorded at birth. We’re joined by Michelle McNamara and Son Vivienne from Transgender Victoria Transgender Victoria has spent years advocating for this change, arguing that if communities aren’t counted, governments can’t properly plan for them. But there are plenty of questions: Do you actually have to answer the gender question? Why are there two questions? What happens if you’re not out at home? And how private is the information? The 2026 Australian Census is the first Census in which people aged 16 and over will be asked first about their sex as recorded at birth, and then their Gender. Transgender Victoria says comparing the answers to those two questions is the method the Australian Bureau of Statistics considers most accurate for counting trans and gender-diverse people. While the Census is compulsory, answering the gender and sexual orientation questions is a choice. TGV encourages trans and gender-diverse people to answer accurately so that TGD communities are properly represented in the national data. The ABS developed the approach in consultation with community organisations, including Transgender Victoria, and has been using the methodology for five years. TGV says information about sex recorded at birth can help with planning the healthcare some trans and gender-diverse people need, such as access to hormones and cancer screening It can also allow data such as the gender pay gap to be examined according to both sex recorded at birth and current gender. It is possible to request one's own census form for people who are not out at home yet, by either calling the ABS or completing a form through MyGov. TGV supports the new gender question but explicitly acknowledges that people with variations of sex characteristics aren’t specifically counted through a dedicated Census question. That said, Q9, which is about Gender, allows the respondent to select either ;non-binary ; or  another term  and write in a descriptor that fits. The Census asks for your legal name, rather than the name you go by. According to the ABS Census Privacy Statement referenced by TGV, responses to Q8 and Q9 are stored separately from a person’s name and address. TGV highlights the difference between the number of trans and gender-diverse people counted in the 2021 Census — around 50,000 — and estimates of more than 200,000 TGD people in Australia. The 2026 Census is intended to produce much better data because gender will now be asked directly of everyone aged 16 and over. www.tgv.org.au The post Saturday, 8th August, 2026: Michelle McNamara (she/her); Son Vivienne (they/them);Transgender Victoria; Census 2026. appeared first on Saturday Magazine.

Macca and Kenny are joined live in the studio by Jason Heath, who has recently become the new General Manager of Joy Media The post Saturday, 8th August, 2026: Jason Heath, New GM Joy Media appeared first on Saturday Magazine.