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A shock Coalition resignation exposes deep cracks in the opposition, while Labor repositions itself to halt a surging One Nation.
The Albanese government is paying an economic and political toll for an ongoing and deeply unpopular war.
It is up to the Greens to decide whether they will pass tax changes or join the Coalition in an unlikely alliance. The minor party is also among those expressing AUKUS concerns.
In this episode of Socially Democratic, your Australian Labor politics and campaigns podcast, host Stephen Donnelly is joined by senior Democratic consultant and former Obama field organiser Katie Parsons for a deep dive into the state of the Democratic Party.The DNC finally released its post-mortem of the 2024 Harris presidential campaign. It was, to put it diplomatically, not great. Neither the campaign, nor the post-mortem. So what do we actually know about what went wrong, and is the party any closer to having answers?With the US midterms six months away and the 2028 presidential primary already taking shape, Katie and Stephen unpack it all:
Tax changes, interest rate hikes, wars and volatility have created the perfect housing market storm. So will prices tumble and what will happen to supply?
This episode of Socially Democratic covers the May federal budget: the politics, the comms, and what it means for Labor heading into the next Victorian election.David Feeney is away, so Stephen Donnelly and Jessie McCrone are joined this month by Lissie Ratcliff, former Andrews Chief of Staff and regular Mailbag guest, for a cracking Feeney Files sans Feeney.They cover:
Within the government, there's quiet confidence the battery boom will continue to gather pace and help shield Australia from both global shocks and domestic demand surges, driving prices even lower.
It was a tough week for the government after entrepreneurs and business owners took to social media to vent their outrage over proposed capital gains tax changes.
This episode of Socially Democratic discusses the UK local, Scottish, and Welsh election results, and what Labour's historic collapse means for social democracy.Reform UK surged across England, Scotland, and Wales. Labour lost its 115-year dominance in Wales. And inside the Parliamentary Labour Party, calls for Keir Starmer to stand down are growing louder.Host Stephen Donnelly is joined by two insiders who know British Labour politics intimately:
In an already difficult post-budget week, Labor isn't being helped by some of its "friends". But it has won an important endorsement from one powerful voice.
Labor has gone after negative gearing, capital gains tax and trusts while the Coalition has promised to end bracket creep by indexing tax thresholds.
This episode of Socially Democratic discusses the 2026 Federal Budget — Jim Chalmers' most ambitious yet — with Emma Dawson, Executive Director of the Chifley Research Centre, and economist Adam Triggs, Partner at Mandala. Is this really the most significant tax reform package in a quarter of a century? Stephen, Emma, and Adam think so. Here's why.
After crushing the Coalition in its regional heartland, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson is on a high and dreaming big.
In this topical, fully-loaded episode of Socially Democratic , Stephen, Todd, and Lissie convene to answer our most pressing Mailbag questions - and add a few thoughts of their own. Our listeners asked:
It's clear that whatever this unpredictable US president says, the Albanese government isn't expecting a return to normal oil flows any time soon.
Jeremy Cordeaux delivers a fiery Garage Edition tackling Australia’s growing economic pressures, government accountability, and controversial policy decisions. From the alarming rise in food insecurity highlighted by OzHarvest to criticism of foreign aid spending while Australians struggle, Jeremy questions national priorities. He revisits Australia’s debt-free moment in 2006 and contrasts it with today’s trillion-dollar debt, arguing governments must live within their means. The episode also takes aim at the NDIS scandal, media coverage failures, and ministerial accountability, alongside housing affordability issues driven by policy missteps. Jeremy also critiques proposed changes to private health incentives, gender-neutral building codes, and broader political decision-making, delivering sharp commentary on leadership, media bias, and economic reality. A classic no-holds-barred episode blending humour, history, and hard truths. Topics discussed: OzHarvest demand surge and food insecurity Foreign aid vs domestic spending priorities Australia debt-free in 2006 vs $1 trillion debt now Government overspending and budget control ideas NDIS fraud scandal and accountability ABC/media criticism and coverage priorities Minister Mark Butler and responsibility debate Housing affordability and first-home buyer schemes Supply vs demand housing imbalance Private health insurance policy changes (over 65s) Public vs private healthcare pressure Gender-neutral building code and toilets debate Political leadership and opposition criticism General government incompetence commentary Historical reflections and anniversary mentions See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The death of Kumanjayi Little Baby prompts calls for urgent action to confront systemic failures in remote indigenous communities.Nationals Leader Matt Canavan joins David Speers, with Paul Sakkal, Anna Henderson and Daniel James on the couch.
Jeremy Cordeaux returns for another sharp-edged GARAGE Edition of The Court of Public Opinion, tackling the fallout from Anzac Day controversy, the future of national identity, and explosive revelations about the NDIS. Jeremy questions whether Australia is losing its sense of pride, purpose and accountability, while criticising political leadership and media silence. The episode dives deep into the government’s own admission that the NDIS has become vulnerable to fraud, waste and organised crime, with billions of taxpayer dollars now under scrutiny. Jeremy argues the scheme has spiralled out of control and demands ministerial accountability. He also weighs in on ISIS brides reportedly returning to Australia, Welcome to Country backlash at Anzac Day services, and whether modern Australia still has the unity needed to defend itself. Plus classic historical reflections including Port Arthur, Chernobyl, Rupert Murdoch, Schindler, Pan Am and more. A passionate mix of politics, culture and commentary in classic Cordeaux style.
The government is spending some political capital. They've announced plans to rein in the NDIS and are inching closer to revealing changes to property tax breaks. But will the opposition get on board? Opposition Leader Angus Taylor joins David Speers, with Lenore Taylor, Tom Crowley and Katina Curtis on the couch.
How did the well-oiled machine that built the historic Obama campaign in 2008 fail so catastrophically in 2024?--This week on Socially Democratic, Stephen speaks with Josh Cook and Greta Carnes about their report ‘The Future of Democratic Organizing'.Greta is a political campaigner and researcher, while Josh is an expert in digital strategy and engagement. Both are U.S.-based ‘Obama for America' alums with over a decade of experience in national campaigns.We ask:
As far as tough budget decisions go, we haven't seen anything on this scale since Joe Hockey's ill-fated 2014 effort.
Jeremy Cordeaux delivers another wide-ranging and provocative episode, tackling everything from Australia’s worsening cost of living crisis to growing tensions over energy policy and global instability. He questions the government’s economic direction, warning of a looming “stagflation” scenario driven by rising electricity prices, wage pressures, and failed renewable energy promises. With power bills surging and everyday costs climbing, Jeremy argues Australians are being pushed into a financial “death spiral.” The episode also explores global conflict, particularly tensions involving Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, and criticises international bodies like the United Nations for what he sees as ineffective leadership. Closer to home, he highlights growing backlash from farmers over renewable infrastructure projects and raises concerns about national self-sufficiency. Jeremy also weighs in on the Ben Roberts-Smith case, noting high-profile support and the broader implications for how Australia treats its war veterans. A bold mix of economics, politics, global affairs and social commentary, delivered in classic Cordeaux style.
Peace has stalled in the Strait of Hormuz.
Fuel prices and inflation aren't the only metrics climbing as the Strait of Hormuz remains shut. The Albanese government's level of frustration is rising just as fast.
The US and Iran hold make or break peace talks to end the war. But there's no end to the fuel crisis.
Happy long weekend, Social Democrats!In this episode of Socially Democratic, Stephen sits down with economist Adam Triggs, a Partner at Mandala and Non-Resident Fellow at The Brookings Institution and ANU.They discuss the issues that are top-of-mind for many Australians, including:⛽The Fuel Crisis - How does the war in Iran impact things like GDP, inflation, and unemployment? What can we do to reduce the demand for oil in Australia?
But the big question remains: Does Donald Trump have a strategy to end the Middle East war?
This week on Australia's favourite Labor politics and campaigns podcast:
In this episode of Socially Democratic:
It was a double whammy for Australian households this week: an interest rate rise and climbing fuel prices amid the ongoing war in the Middle East. Energy Minister, Chris Bowen is our guest. Meanwhile in South Australia a Labor landslide has seen Peter Malinauskas returned as Premier. He joins us from Adelaide following his election victory. Paul Sakkal, Greg Brown and Clare Armstrong join David Speers on the couch.
In this episode of Socially Democratic:
Another three members of the Iranian women's football team have decided to return home, days after being granted humanitarian visas to stay in Australia.Meanwhile our guest, former Deputy Prime Minister and One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce says he regrets not doing more to secure Australia's fuel supply when he was in government. David Speers is joined by Matthew Knott, Jane Norman and Jason Koutsoukis.
Tom is joined by Auspol streamer Elise Turnbull to ask whether this war with Iran is actually a war, or is it merely a sparkling collective self defence? (10:38) Then producer Griff aka Michael Griffin joins to talk about how the Nacc this week delivered zero robodebt justice. (27:47) Finally, a look at the Liberal and Greens federal campaign reviews of the 2025 elections. (45:25) Pretty sure both went well?---------- Just released on Patreon - "Paddy Manning on his book Inside The Greens!" The show can only exist because of our wonderful Patreon subscriber’s support. Subscribe for $3/month to get access to our fortnightly subscriber-only full episode, and unlock our complete library of over NINETY past bonus episodes. https://www.patreon.com/SeriousDangerAU ---------- Follow Elise on everything - https://linktr.ee/elise.url Tom on tour! Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney, Newcastle & Brisbane -https://comedy.com.au/tour/tom-ballard Theme by Kye Hughes Thanks Dom for the sparkling jokeProduced by Michael Griffin https://www.instagram.com/mikeskillz Follow us on https://twitter.com/SeriousDangerAU https://www.instagram.com/seriousdangerau https://www.tiktok.com/@seriousdangerauSupport the show: http://patreon.com/seriousdangerauSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Socially Democratic:
Donald Trump is now demanding Iran's unconditional surrender – and a say in who runs the country.
A fresh Middle East conflict is underway, as Donald Trump announces the death of Iran's Supreme Leader.
Hey Social Democrats. It's that time again!
It's tempting to treat the evacuation of the prime minister from the Lodge this week as a bizarre outlier but that would miss the point.
The Federal Government hardens its stance on 'ISIS families' trying to leave Syria.
This week on Socially Democratic, Stephen is joined by policy expert and Executive Director of the Chifley Research Centre, Emma Dawson.Emma joins the show to talk about what Labor's clear majority actually means, what they can still achieve in their second term, and whether this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for structural reform.Emma brings her wealth of knowledge to the vital questions of 2026, including:
Abbie has some thoughts about the rise of what she is calling 'performative conservatism' in the wake of responses to the ABC's comedy special 'Always Was Tonight'. Plus, Pauline Hanson made a movie and Amy and Oscar had no idea, so the team breaks down the bizarre trailer together. LINKS Check out @itsalotpod on IG at https://bit.ly/itsalot-instagram Review the podcast on Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ial-review Follow LiSTNR Entertainment on IG @listnrentertainment Follow LiSTNR Entertainment on TikTok @listnrentertainment Get instructions on how to access transcripts on Apple podcasts https://bit.ly/3VQbKXY CREDITS Host: Abbie Chatfield @abbiechatfield Executive Producer and Editor: Amy Kimball @amy.kimballDigital and Social and Video Producer: Oscar Gordon @oscargordon Social and Video Producer: Justin Hill @jus_hillIt's A Lot Social Media Manager: Julia ToomeyManaging Producer: Sam Cavanagh Find more great podcasts like this at www.listnr.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Angus Taylor takes over a Liberal Party in crisis – in what he calls a change or die moment.
Judy grew up on a farm in north-east Victoria.When she was seventeen, a family tragedy saw her thrust into life as a farmer for the first time.Being a young farmer led her into local politics, and eventually into a burgeoning friendship with a lanky, much-loved local politician named Tim Fischer.On their first date, Tim took Judy to the Tocumwal Debutant Ball, and it was a disaster.But despite the age difference, the two of them eventually fell in love and started a family.When their first son, Harrison, was diagnosed with autism Judy became an advocate for people on the autism spectrum.The family is still grieving Tim, whom they lost to leukaemia in 2019.But Judy is now working to make her beloved family farm, ‘Grossotto', a sanctuary for vulnerable adults.Learn more about Care Farms.Listen to Tim Fischer in conversation with Richard Fidler.Watch the 2018 Australian Story about the Fischer Family.This episode was produced by Nicola Harrison, Executive Producer was Carmel Rooney.It explores love, marriage, relationships, Auspol, local politics, country Australia, regional Australia, rural communities, motherhood, age gap relationships, grief, death, grieving a spouse, neurodivergence, autism spectrum disorder, raising children with autism.To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts. There you'll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.
The Coalition on track to reunite after a messy split.
Parliament returns this week – and while the government is bracing for an interest rate rise – both the Liberal and National Parties are riven by infighting.Shadow Treasurer Ted O'Brien joins David Speers.
Leader of the Australian Greens and Senator for Queensland Larissa Waters is here to help unpack the hate speech laws that were just passed in Parliament. What is actually changing, and why is everyone so confused about them? Why did the Greens AND One Nation vote against them? Plus, why did the recent attempted attack on the Boorloo/Perth Invasion Day Rally get so little attention in the days following? LINKS Follow Senator Larissa Waters on IG @larissawaters Follow the Australian Greens on IG @australiangreens Check out @itsalotpod on IG at https://bit.ly/itsalot-instagram Review the podcast on Apple Podcasts https://bit.ly/ial-review Follow LiSTNR Entertainment on IG @listnrentertainment Follow LiSTNR Entertainment on TikTok @listnrentertainment Get instructions on how to access transcripts on Apple podcasts https://bit.ly/3VQbKXY CREDITS Host: Abbie Chatfield @abbiechatfield Guest: Senator Larissa Waters @larissawaters Executive Producer and Editor: Amy Kimball @amy.kimballDigital and Social and Video Producer: Oscar Gordon @oscargordon Social and Video Producer: Justin Hill @jus_hillIt's A Lot Social Media Manager: Julia ToomeyManaging Producer: Sam Cavanagh Find more great podcasts like this at www.listnr.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For much of the summer, it was the Prime Minister under intense pressure over his response to the Bondi tragedy.Anthony Albanese said the emergency sitting would be a chance to show political unity.Instead the rush to pass a crackdown on guns and hate groups blew up the Coalition.
On a day that should be a huge victory for Communications Minister Anika Wells, celebrating the commencement of Australia's world-first social media ban for under 16's, her name is in the headlines for another reason. The Minister is being grilled over parliamentary entitlements, but what are the rules around politicians and spending on the job? Plus, as the year ends and we start to take stock of what work looked like in 2025, how do we make the best of our 9 to 5 in the new year? Lisa Lie has the answers. And in headlines today, Millions of teenagers are now banned from social media as world-first laws aimed at better protecting children online come into force; The man who murdered Queensland woman Toyah Cordingly as she walked her dog on a beach north of Cairns, has been sentenced to life in prison; Former Liberal Senator Linda Reynolds has told the ABC that she doesn’t regret pursuing legal action against former staffer Brittney Higgins saying the fight to clear her name will be worth the cost even if it bankrupts her; Pamela Anderson has spoken about her romantic time with fellow actor Liam Neeson saying she laughed at reports it was a publicity stunt THE END BITS Check out more from Lisa on the BIZ podcast Support independent women's media Check out The Quicky Instagram here GET IN TOUCHShare your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice note or email us at thequicky@mamamia.com.au CREDITS Hosts: Taylah Strano & Claire Murphy Guests: Lisa Lie, founder of Learna & Host of BIZ Audio Producer: Lu Hill Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Australian kids are bracing for a world-first experiment as they're booted off social media, while the parliament winds up after a huge year.
With the deadline to boot under 16 accounts from social media just a week away and as platforms scramble to implement "robust age-assurance," cyber security experts warn that the demand for age verification creates a scammer's dream. Plus, if not TikTok and Instagram... where are the teens heading online for the socials fix? And in headlines today, A safety warning has been issued by the national medicines regulator over popular drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity; Hong Kong authorities have now arrested 13 people for suspected manslaughter in a probe into the city's deadliest fire in decades; Indonesia's president has told survivors of devastating floods that help is arriving to those in need as Asian governments scale up their responses to a disaster that has left more than 1000 dead across three countries; Oxford University Press has named "rage bait'' as its word of the year THE END BITS Support independent women's media Check out The Quicky Instagram here GET IN TOUCHShare your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice note or email us at thequicky@mamamia.com.au CREDITS Hosts: Taylah Strano & Claire Murphy Guests: Cam Wilson, Associate Editor at Crikey Associate Professor Hassan Asghar, Cybersecurity Expert at Macquarie University Audio Producer: Lu Hill Become a Mamamia subscriber: https://www.mamamia.com.au/subscribeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.