The Briefing

In 1995 a history making interview inside Kensington Palace between the late Princess Diana and ex-BBC reporter Martin Bashir changed the trajectory of the monarchy forever. The Panorama TV interview watched by an estimated 200 million worldwide, became one of the most dissected moments in modern royal history but resulted in an inquiry into how the BBC 'covered up’ the controversial methods Bashir used to secure it. In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks fresh claims made in a new book, Dianarama, and explores why nearly three decades on many still blame Bashir for Diana’s death. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The WHO has released new guidelines recommending breakthrough weight loss drugs like Ozempic as long-term treatments for obesity. While the new measures are hoping to make the medications more accessible and cheaper, it comes as our TGA released new safety warnings for people taking the drugs. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by endocrinologist and obesity specialist Katherine Samaras, who explains the complexities of managing obesity and why, in many cases, the benefits of these game-changing drugs far outweigh any negatives. If this discussion raised any issues for you, contact the Butterfly Foundation on 1800 33 4673 or Lifeline on 13 11 14. Headlines: A long-awaited review into government board appointments has blasted Australia’s “jobs for mates” culture, Environment Minister Murray Watt has admitted that greater oversight was needed on the controversial $96 million Bureau of Meteorology website redesign, and a new report has revealed Australia’s happiest workers. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Labor to launch its National AI Plan today, WHO recommends Ozempic-style meds for weight-loss as TGA issues fresh warning, landmark class action against ADF starts today, Donald Trump says he will release his MRI results, and Joey Watson joins us to chat about this week’s investigation on Secrets We Keep: Uncovered. Deep Dive: Millions of Aussies are being duped by sneaky subscription traps, drip pricing, and refund runarounds - and the government’s calling time. A proposed ban on unfair trading practices could soon make it illegal for businesses to deliberately trick or trap us into spending more and it’s not just consumers paying the price. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Erin Turner, CEO of the Consumer Policy Research Centre, about what the ban would cover, how it could work, and whether it can actually stop the dodgy tactics. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the frightening new frontier of coercive control and family violence. Abusers are now weaponising smart devices and even the software in cars to spy, abuse and manipulate victim survivors. In one case, there are allegations that an abuser manipulated an ex-partner’s software in her car, which allegedly allowed him to control where she was going or completely shut down the vehicle. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by CEO of Full Stop Australia Karen Bevan, to explain what technology-facilitated abuse is and where you can go to get help. If this discussion raised any issues for you, or you think you may be a victim of technology-facilitated abuse, contact 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732. Headlines: Australia is keeping a close eye on a Chinese Navy flotilla currently in the Philippine Sea, four Sydney men have been charged in connection with an international "satanic" child sex abuse material ring, and more than $150,000 worth of snails have been stolen from a farm north of Paris. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: More than 100 arrested at major port protest, death toll rises in Hong Kong apartment blaze, Benjamin Netanyahu asks for pardon in corruption case, Gen Z Australians are attempting suicide more than previous generations and what we’ve learnt about Albo’s wedding. Deep Dive: Scientology is turning to TikTok in Australia as a way to advertise to and recruit young people. Mirriam Francis spent 26 years of her life as a member of the Church of Scientology in Australia, the US and UK. At just 15 years old, she was working in the Department of Promotion and Marketing of Scientology in LA, a division of the church which looks to find the best ways to sell the religion to potential members. Mirriam has since left the church and has recently been giving evidence at a Victorian inquiry into high control religious groups. In this episode of The Briefing, she’s joining Sacha Barbour Gatt to reveal why she’s deeply concerned at the church’s recent foray into TikTok. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John F Kennedy’s grandson Jack Schlossberg, is a self-described silly goose, social media provocateur and one of vogues political correspondents, and now he’s running the U.S. House of Representatives next year.The Democrat officially launched his campaign via social media, leaning into the online persona that has made him both a curiosity and a headline regular. In this bonus episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by LiSNTR's entertainment reporter Justin Hill who unpacks the strategy behind Schlossberg’s viral rise. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bob Brown is nothing short of a trailblazer. A pioneering environmentalist, he became a defining force in Australia’s conservation movement and made history as the first openly gay leader of an Australian political party. Before entering politics, Bob trained as a doctor more than 50 years ago shaping his understanding of life and fragility. In his latest book, Defiance, he shares why he’s entering a new era of being at peace with death. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Bob explains why he still refuses to give up on humanity and how people like Trump find themselves in such powerful positions. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Bugonia TO WATCH: Kevin Hart: Acting My Age on Netflix TO DO: Watch out for scams TO WATCH: Yurlu Country Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A special plea for more Australians to donate blood, plasma and platelets, with supplies at dangerous levels in the lead up to Christmas. Australia needs a new donor every 5 minutes, but only one in 30 donates. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by 11-year-old Rosie, who has been diagnosed with a rare blood disease and needs donations to stay alive. The 11-year-old and her mum Ann share their heartbreaking story, and their important message for Australians to help others in need. https://www.lifeblood.com.au/ Headlines: Two people have been arrested after a man was shot dead in Sydney’s west, one of the National Guards shot near the White House in the US yesterday has died, and shoppers are being warned it may cost more to buy prawns this Christmas because of low stock. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @listnrnewsroom Instagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Anger grows in Hong Kong as death toll rises from horror apartment fires, Labor strikes deal with Greens on environment laws, FBI launches terror probe into National Guard shooting, Pollies react to Barnaby Joyce’s Nationals defection and Sydney train station forced to remove AI art Deep Dive: Would you sit on your bed for an hour with no phone, no music, no book - literally nothing to distract you? Well, that’s a trend that’s been sweeping socials called ‘rawdogging boredom,’ where users film themselves doing absolutely nothing for a set amount of time, in the hopes it’ll improve their dwindling attention spans. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou and Sacha Barbour Gatt give it a go before unpacking the neuroscience behind it with author, podcaster and neuroscience expert, Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Colin Kaepernick was a star quarterback in the NFL, but his decision to kneel during the national anthem in 2016, in protest against racial inequality and police brutality, ended up costing him his career. His silent gesture exposed deep power imbalances between players and team owners, sparking a league-wide reckoning - with his beef resulting in athletes being able to protest the national anthem without facing the same consequences he did. In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks how Kaepernick was quietly side-lined by all 32 teams, why it took the rise of the Black Lives Matter movement for the NFL to shift its stance and what prompted Donald Trump to label him a ‘son of a bitch.’ Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The latest gender pay gap report has been released, and while there is some good news, there is still a long way to go, especially when it comes to inequity at the CEO level. The pay gap still stands at just over 20 per cent, with overall numbers showing men still earn almost $30,000 more per year compared to women. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Mary Woolridge, the CEO of the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, to unpack all the latest data and what to do if you think you’re being paid unfairly. Headlines: Barnaby Joyce has officially announced his resignation from The Nationals, The United States has stopped processing all immigration requests from Afghan Nationals effective immediately, three men have been arrested over the horrific inferno in Hong Kong, and investigations are continuing after a woman was killed in a shark attack on the NSW Mid North Coast. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: AUKUS submarine deal to be examined by secret government committee, at least 36 people killed in high-rise apartment fire in Hong Kong, teens launch High Court challenge to social media ban, Trump’s final criminal charge abandoned, and the TikTok awards were on in Sydney last night. Deep Dive: Black Friday is no longer a single day, rather a month-long retail marathon that’s become the centrepiece of what feels like Australia’s never-ending sales season. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with QUT Professor Gary Mortimer about when this shift began, how it reshaped business, and whether it’s still worth chasing a bargain tomorrow. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government has introduced a major change to social security payments, which allows financial support to be cut off if recipients with outstanding warrants, even before they’re found guilty. The government says the new powers will only be used in exceptional circumstances based on expert advice from law enforcement. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Kristin O’Connell from the Anti-Poverty Centre who raises serious concerns that some of our most vulnerable will be unfairly targeted in these changes that have just passed the Senate. Statement from a Spokesperson for Minister Tanya Plibersek: The social safety net is a pillar of this country, and we are deeply committed to upholding its integrity. If someone is charged with a serious offence like murder or child sexual abuse and is on the run, they should not continue receiving a payment from the Government. Continuing to provide support in these circumstances is not appropriate, but there is currently no legal authority to cancel a payment. These powers will only be used in exceptional circumstances, based on expert advice from law enforcement agencies. Any impact on dependents must be considered by the Minister for Home Affairs before issuing a notice. It is a serious power, for the most serious of circumstances. Headlines: South Australian police have announced they’ve concluded a new search for missing four-year-old Gus Lamont, Treasurer Jim Chalmers has admitted inflation is higher than the federal government would like, and Robert Irwin has won Dancing with the Stars in the US. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Experts warn food delivery could become more expensive’ after ‘world first’ deal, Sea World employee breaks down at inquest into deadly helicopter crash, Labor to squeeze public service, new research finds our brains have ‘five eras’, and Trump pardons two turkeys, rambles about ‘fat slob’ governor. Deep Dive: AI-generated child sexual abuse material is seeing a horrifying increase in Australia, but detectives are working on something that could soon be hitting abusers with a dose of digital poison. That’s the hope of the AFP, which is behind a new tool that will look to disrupt the production of these heinous images by corrupting data in the backend. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Elizabeth Perry from the AI for Law Enforcement and Community Safety (AiLECS) Lab. She’s the research lead behind this new tool to find out how it will work and put a major dent in the production of CSAM. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former My Kitchen Rules judge Pete Evans once was one of the highest rating Australian celebrity chefs, but after rebranding himself as an outspoken wellness crusader, he found himself in a series of public feuds with the TGA, medical experts, and health professionals. Dubbed ‘Paleo Pete’, he's been back in the headlines, this time sporting a MAGA hat and releasing a new cookbook, The MAHA Cookbook: Real Food, Real Change, Real Health, Real Health, inspired by the MAHA Commission report and championed by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks why the TGA issued Evans thousands of dollars in infringement notices and what ultimately led Meta to pull down his social media accounts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happened to Gus Lamont? The 4-year-old has been missing for almost 8 weeks after vanishing from his family’s property in outback South Australia. Now, authorities say they are searching disused mine shafts in the area, as they desperately search for any new clues. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by forensic anthropologist Xanthe Mallet, who explains what investigators may be looking for and why she believes Gus’s disappearance is one of Australia’s most baffling cases. Headlines: Pauline Hanson has hit back after being suspended from the Senate for 7 days, a 15-year-old boy who’s been charged with the alleged stabbing murder of a 17-year-old near a school in Sydney’s northwest has faced court, and the Macquarie Dictionary is the latest to unveil its word of the year. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Pauline Hanson’s facing criticism over recycled burqa stunt, US and Ukraine edge closer to a peace deal, Aussie house prices have surged almost 50% since COVID, more than half of us regret Black Friday buys, and Joey from Secrets We Keep joins us to chat his new ep ‘Unmasking Australia’s most corrupt cop’. Deep Dive: Australia’s second-largest food delivery app shuts down on Wednesday- a decision that signals not only the end of a jingle, but a 20-year-old operation that once helped pioneer the industry. Menulog made the announcement a fortnight ago with little detail, so why is it shutting up shop and could this see the creation of another duopoly in Australia? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with the Motley Fool’s Chief Investment Officer in Australia, Scott Phillips to break it down. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A breakthrough new fertility treatment is giving new hope to thousands of parents to be. Often when IVF isn’t working, there are few viable options available, but now PRP or Platelet Rich Plasma is showing promising results for couples struggling to conceive. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Dr Scott Pearce, the Clinical director of Create Fertility to explain how PRP works and one of his patients Emily, who struggling to fall pregnant with IVF but her dreams have come true through using PRP. Afternoon headlines: Some politicians in Parliament House urged to turn off their electronic devices during a visit by Chinese officials, SA Police to recommence search for 4yo Gus with six mine shafts to be searched and New AI deepfake bill could see Aussie’s sued or fined for sharing content without consent Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Coalition polling at record low as government looks to pass enviro laws, Trump accuses Ukraine of being ungrateful as officials meet in Geneva for peace plan, BoM ordered to review whopping $96 million price tag for website revamp, Lando and Piastri disqualified from the Las Vegas Grand Prix, and Matcha and Acai dominating Australian Uber Eats orders. Deep Dive: A major crackdown is unfolding on Australia's doorsteps as global authorities try to shut down a vast network of scam compounds built on human trafficking. With more than 120,000 people believed to be trapped inside these sites along the Myanmar-Thailand border, the question now is whether the international push to take them apart can work. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Andrew Wasuwongse from International Justice Mission Thailand about how these compounds operate and what it will take to stop them. Further listening from headlines: Albo's green gamble The Beefing: Oscar Piastri vs Lando Norris Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonnie Blue has been making national headlines again over her return to schoolies. The controversial OnlyFans star's visa was cancelled last year, but she told media 'I’ve got good lawyers and I will be doing schoolies this year.' In this Bonus episode of The Briefing from 2024, Helen Smith is joined by Bonnie to discuss her schoolies plan to invite “barley legal” young men attending the event on the Gold Coast to have sex and film it for content on her wildly popular OnlyFans account. The second part of this episode is an interview with Harrison James, who was calling for Bonnie's visa to be cancelled at the time. He’s a survivor of sexual violence and now works as an activist speaking about consent, sexual violence and the safety of children and young people.Content warning: This episode mentions sexual violence. If this episode has brought up any issues for you, help is available:Lifeline 13 11 14 1800Respect Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Marcia Hines is a music icon - 22 albums, more than 2.6 million sales, and a career that made her a household name as a judge on Australian Idol. She moved to Australia when she was 16 to star in Hair, the anti-Vietnam war musical, and ended up building her life here after discovering she was pregnant with her daughter, Deni. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Marica shares what stardom looks like in 2025 and how she feels being a 2026 Wall of Fame inductee at Parkes Elvis Festival. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Frankenstein on Netflix TO TRY: Vision facial serum by Lush TO LISTEN: Ausify on Insta TO WATCH: Rush Hour and old movies you love Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Half of what Australians eat is ultra processed and now a damning new international report has revealed how these everyday foods are putting us at greater risk of serious chronic disease and mental health issues. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by Dr Priscila Machado from the Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition at Deakin University, who explains exactly what ultra processed foods are and why we need tougher regulations. Afternoon headlines: Coroner hands down findings on deadly Wieambilla attack, Kellie Sloane elected NSW Liberal leader unopposed, Virgin and Qantas ban use of portable power banks and Darwin Cyclone warning Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Third Coalition leader ousted from top job this week, neo-Nazi leader reportedly charged over alleged harassment of federal MP, coroner to hand down findings into Australia’s first Christian terror attack today, Anthony Albanese touches down in South Africa for G20 summit, and an Aussie surprise as the world’s coolest streets are named. Deep Dive: After 13 long years of schooling, thousands of kids across the country are packing their bags for destinations across Australia – and now the world – to celebrate Schoolies. While many will likely party too hard and head home with some regrets, or worse, there’s a growing trend among teenagers to swap getting wasted for wellness. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks to the founder of Red Frogs, Andy Gourley, about how kids are celebrating in 2025 and how much that’s changed since he started his work at leavers events more than 25 years ago. Further listening from headlines:The Coalition killing season has arrivedVote #1 neo-Nazis Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s one of the oldest, pettiest, and most iconic sporting feuds on earth: Australia vs England, fighting over a tiny terracotta urn. From England’s full-blown 1882 meltdown at The Oval, to the chaos of Bodyline, Bradman’s god-tier dominance, ball-tampering scandals, this rivalry isn’t just cricket - it’s the biggest beef in sporting history.In this episode of The Beefing, Alexandria Funnell breaks down the century-long beef that’s shaped cricket history: the legends, the collapses, the controversies, the sledging, and the moments that turned two nations into lifelong frenemies. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The CSIRO, Australia's peak science agency, has cut 350 researchers in their latest round of redundancies. But experts are warning this is just the tip of the iceberg, with various Federal Governments over the years not properly funding or supporting our world leading scientists and researchers. In this episode of The Briefing Natarsha Belling is joined by the CEO of Science & Technology Australia Ryan Winn to unpack why the Government isn’t choosing to invest in Australian science and the dangers of not keeping the research and development in our own backyard. Afternoon headlines: Donald signs off on releasing the remaining Epstein files, Australia hands over COP31 to Türkiye and real estate agents in Victoria required to reveal a property’s reserve price. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Australia accused of censoring US citizens, Tropical Cyclone Fina is heading toward the NT, calls for governments to step up action to fight chips and soft drinks, The Louvre announces 100 new security cameras, and Amyl and The Sniffers clean up at the ARIAs! Deep Dive: AI anxiety is fuelled by warnings that artificial intelligence could replace jobs, upend industries, and even surpass human control within decades. So how seriously should we take these risks, and which human skills will matter most in a future shaped by rapidly advancing AI? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith chats with UNSW AI Institute chief scientist Toby Walsh to break down how worried we should be and what we can do to stay future-proof in an AI-driven world. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ARIAs are on tonight... and we find out why the music industry’s night of nights is more important than ever. As local artists struggle to cut through in a content-overloaded world, we unpack why the ARIAs are a vital showcase for the superstars of the future. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by podcaster and music expert Alex Dyson. Headlines: The legislation to release the Epstein files now needs to be signed by the US President, new laws banning Nazi slogans and symbols have been introduced by the New South Wales Government, and the Cambridge Dictionary has revealed its word of the year for 2025. Matt & Alex All Day Breakfast Live. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Outage takes down popular apps and Aussie airport sites, US lawmakers to vote on Epstein files, skilled migrants and international students could be slashed under Libs, Roblox to roll out age-verification checks in Australia despite social media ban exemption, and Eminem sues Aussie swim company. Deep Dive: A new claim for native title rights has been filed with the Federal Court, which, if successful, will cover Melbourne and its surrounds. While corners of the community might react with concern and even anger at new native title claims, what exactly are they? And is the criticism justified? In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Kieren Murray, a Wiradjuri man and lawyer at the First Nations Legal & Research Services to unpack it. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pauline Hanson and Mehreen Faruqi’s long-running feud has turned into a legal showdown, with Hanson's tweet telling Faruqi to ‘pack your bags and piss off back to Pakistan’ at the centre of the battle. The two senators' politics sit at complete opposite ends of the spectrum, Faruqi a senator for the Greens and Hanson the leader of One Nation. In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks how these senators ended up in politics and why Hanson is refusing to accept the court’s ruling in Faruqi’s favour - launching an appeal that’s pushed the feud back into the headlines. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coalition implosion continues... while the focus has been on the Federal infighting... now the state parties in both NSW and Victoria are falling apart. Victoria has a new Opposition leader, the NSW Nationals boss has resigned, and now speculation is rife that the NSW Liberal leader will also go. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Liberal Party strategist turned pollster Tony Barry to unpack the fallout and why he is warning the party is dead unless it returns to its core values. Headlines: The family of Hannah McGuire has broken down in tears after her killer was sentenced to 28 years' jail for the young woman’s murder, the federal government has welcomed the UN Security Council passing Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza, and the finalists for the Macquarie Dictionary’s word of the year have been released. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Visa revoked for Neo-nazi who attended Sydney rally, Sussan Ley says she will lead the Coalition to the next election, jail time for Aussie man who ambushed Ariana Grande on red carpet, more schools to close over asbestos contamination and Joey takes you inside another undercover investigation in the new episode of Secrets We Keep: Uncovered. Deep Dive: The Church of Scientology has long been shrouded in controversy and secrecy, with allegations of mental, emotional, financial, sexual and physical abuse. It was even banned in Australia following an inquiry in the 1960s, before being recognised as a religion by the High Court in 1983. Now in 2025, Scientology Melbourne has started posting on TikTok in a bid to lure younger members, as an inquiry in Victoria examines the harms caused by high-control religious groups, including Scientology. In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with investigative journalist Bryan Seymour about the church’s attempts to recruit on social media and why we should be worried about it. Further listening from headlines: Vote #1 neo-Nazis is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts BONUS: Inside the Wicked press tour insanity on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sussan Ley is under siege. Faced with selling the Coalition’s new energy policy, the Opposition Leader is fighting for survival with renewed leadership speculation and the party again recording plummeting polling numbers. In this special edition of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Sussan Ley for a revealing conversation about net zero, values over votes and her late mother’s timely advice. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Coalition releases energy plan with immigration up next, almost 70 schools closed due to asbestos fears, ‘traitor’ congresswoman hits out at Trump ahead of Epstein file vote, phone use linked to skyrocketing rates of dementia in young people, and a Labubu movie is on the way! Deep Dive: The first generation raised with AI woven into daily life and instant communication as the default is officially entering the workforce. Gen Alpha’s arrival brings a fifth generation into Australian workplaces, and in this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by psychologist and HR specialist Natalie Petruzziello to unpack what they’ll be like as your co-workers and what their arrival means for the future of work. Further listening from headlines: Wtf is a Labubu? Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wicked: For Good is hitting screens this week, and whether you’re a fan or not, you can’t deny the absolute juggernaut that has been the Wicked movie press tour. Headlined by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, the press tour last year copped some flak for being cringey and over the top, amid viral videos of reporters crying in interviews to ridiculous platitudes about “holding space” for the lyrics of the movie’s title track Defying Gravity. In this bonus episode of The Briefing, we revisit Sacha Barbour Gatt's chat with LiSTNR Entertainment's Justin Hill where they broke down the insanity of the Wicked press tour at the time and why it got people so riled up. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Zoe Terakes made history as Marvel’s first trans actor and you might also know them from Wentworth or the Netflix hit Nine Perfect Strangers, starring alongside Nicole Kidman. The trans masculine actor and newly minted author’s new book, Eros: Queer Myths for Lovers, explores reclaiming voice, desire and autonomy. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Zoe shares for the first time how they were groomed as a young actor and what sets American performers apart from Australians. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO EAT: Pesto lasagne TO TRY: Lush Glen Coco facemask TO LISTEN: Viva Betty the podcast TO WATCH: Fleabag on Prime Video Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As AC/DC and Oasis take over Australia... a whole new generation is falling in love with old school music. So, what’s behind this resurgence of rock gods from the 1980’s and 90’s? In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Aussie rock legend James Reyne, who’s about to head out of a new tour. He shares his love of live performance and why he couldn’t be happier about seeing a whole new generation of fans in the audience. Headlines: The ex-boyfriend of 28-year-old Molly Ticehurst has pleaded guilty to her murder, Retail groups in Victoria have welcomed a new government crackdown on offenders who assault retail workers, and the former president of Spain’s National Football Federation, who made headlines in Sydney in 2023, has been egged during the launch of his new book. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Sussan Ley survives net zero week, people working with kids to be tracked on national register, Oasis and Jelly Roll concerts hit by measles cases, Kyle Sandilands is threatening to quit radio, and Apple has released an iPhone sock to widespread amusement. Deep Dive: Ryan Murphy's new legal drama All’s Fair starring Kim Kardashian, has been hit with brutal reviews, including a rare zero-star rating, with some calling it the ultimate “second-screen show.” As streamers churn out more content designed to be watched while scrolling, the debate is growing over whether this style of TV is diluting quality or simply reflecting how we actually watch. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with LiSTNR Entertainment’s Amy Kimball about the rise of second-screen viewing and whether All’s Fair really deserves the no-stars treatment. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Prince Harry met Meghan Markle in 2016, it looked like a modern royal fairytale. Instead, it became one of the most explosive feuds in the crowns history. This bitter clash between tradition and independence, has accusations of racism and tabloid wars from Kate-Meghan tensions, to claims Charles cut Harry off. It even spawned a Wikipedia page dedicated to 'Megxit' - a play on Brexit. In this episode of The Beefing, Alexandria Funnell unpacks how this feud led to Harry and Meghan leaving the UK, moving to the US, sitting down with Oprah, a Netflix docuseries and Harry’s memoir Spare - that fractured the monarchy. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Liberals have officially dumped their 2050 net zero target, joining the Nationals, and sparking fresh chaos inside the Coalition. So what does this mean for the party’s future… and for Sussan Ley’s leadership? In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with Saturday Paper Special Correspondent Jason Koutsoukis to unpack the fallout. Headlines: Neo Nazi leader Thomas Sewell has been released from prison, a 17-year-old has been sentenced for the murder Vyleen White, and Australia’s first Treaty between First Peoples in Victoria and the Victorian Government has been signed. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom Image Credit: The Sydney Morning Herald/Alex EllinghausenSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: New Epstein emails mentioning Trump released, Liberals poised to dump net zero after marathon meeting, AEC says it has no scope to block neo-Nazis from running in elections, Aussie fortune teller charged over $70 million fraud, and the Irwin's pay tribute to Steve on DWTS. Deep Dive: The Victorian Labor government has unveiled a hardline shift on youth crime - announcing that offenders as young as 14 could now face adult court and, in extreme cases, life behind bars. The move comes alongside a machete ban and tougher bail laws, marking an unusual stance for Labor as experts continue to warn that tougher penalties rarely deter young offenders. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Premier Jacinta Allan about whether the crackdown is about cutting crime or chasing votes ahead of next year’s state election. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every year Australians spend billions on Black Friday sales, but along with the bargains come hidden dangers. We reveal how to spot the scammers and the best way to bag a bargain. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by consumer law expert Jeannie Marie Paterson, on the best way to bag a bargain and your rights as a consumer if something goes wrong. Headlines: Anthony Albanese has announced a new landmark security treaty with Indonesia, there are reports from sources inside the Liberal party room meeting that Andrew Hastie says the Coalition should consider forcing a double dissolution election, and former CFMEU boss John Setka has been charged. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Liberal party to hash out net zero plans, Victoria and NSW announce new protest laws, man survives shark attack in WA, we've spent $1.4m on our former PMs this year and the staggering amount Aussies are dropping on hens' parties revealed. Deep Dive: New research shows two key groups of Australians are losing faith in democracy - young people and those living outside major cities. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith chats with Australia’s new high commissioner to the UK and McKinnon’s executive director Jay Weatherill about what’s behind this growing distrust and what it would take to win it back. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.