In this episode of New Politics, we explore the reasons behind the significant stir within the conservative mainstream media sparked by rumours of former Liberal Party MP Josh Frydenberg’s potential return to federal politics. Once a key figure as the Treasurer and the representative for Kooyong, Frydenberg’s speculated comeback ignited considerable enthusiasm at News Corporation, almost as though Robert Menzies himself was making the return. However, Josh Frydenberg is no Robert Menzies: his...

In this week’s episode of New Politics, we explore the recent parliamentary session where the Prime Minister informed the Labor Caucus that they are “crafting the offer for a second term.” This statement has been widely interpreted as a preparatory move for an election, though this is unlikely before the Queensland state election in October. Redistribution issues further complicate the timing, but we think the possible election dates are either November or April 2025. Amidst this electoral...

Welcome to this week’s episode of New Politics, where we analyse the latest events in Australian politics, global diplomacy, and the intersection of law and human rights. We dissect the aftermath of the federal budget and the opposition’s budget reply amidst ongoing political machinations, including the contentious topics dominating the political landscape, including immigration policies, the debate over nuclear versus renewable energy, and the broader implications of these discussions on the...

In this episode of New Politics, we provide an alternative assessment of the 2024 Budget, exploring its reception across various media outlets, economic assessments, and the underlying political machinations. Of course, most of the reactions from major players in the media landscape, including News Corporation, Nine/Fairfax, the ABC and the Guardian, are mostly negative and it’s their inherent biases that shape public perception. We also look at the underlying priorities revealed in the...

In this in-depth episode of New Politics, we take a closer look at a series of significant events impacting global politics, human rights, and national economic policies. We begin by examining the escalating student-led pro-Palestine protests that have ignited across major university campuses worldwide, starting from Columbia University and spreading across the U.S. and Australia. These protests, fueled by the harsh realities of the conflict in Gaza, demand a reassessment of university...

In this episode of New Politics, we explore the eternal issue of domestic violence in Australia, exploring the recent headlines and government actions – or lack thereof – that have fueled both media coverage and public discourse. We begin with the No More rally in Canberra, where domestic violence against women and children took centre stage, highlighting the slow governmental response despite numerous reports and increasing public pressure. It’s a critical issue that affects over half of the...

In this episode of New Politics, we explore Australia’s remarkable economic ascent, now ranking second among G20 nations, a significant leap from its previous positions. We explore the factors behind this growth and the impact of government policies on this turnaround and while this might be good for the economy, it’s not so good for the community if people can’t see or feel the benefits yet. For the government, this is an important factor: the economy doesn’t vote but the people in the...

In a deeply impactful week, the latest episode of New Politics discusses the broad range of events that have not only shaken local communities but also stirred international relations. We begin with the tragic attack at Westfield shopping mall in Bondi Junction, Sydney, where six lives were abruptly ended. This horrific incident prompts a wider discussion on public safety and the effectiveness of weapon control legislation in New South Wales. We also analyse the high-profile defamation case...

In this new episode of New Politics, we explore the pressing concerns impacting Australians today. Starting with the grocery and supermarkets sector, we analyse the interim report from the Food and Grocery Code Review which highlights the significant power imbalance favouring major supermarkets like Coles, Woolworths, and Aldi. We discuss the implications of their unchecked practices on small suppliers and the urgent need for stricter enforcement of the Grocery Code.  We also shed light on...

In this episode of New Politics, we explore a series of pressing global and domestic issues that have unfolded recently. We start with a development in Gaza, where the killing of Zomi Frankcom, an Australian working for the food charity World Central Kitchen, has sparked international controversy. Initially attributed to Hamas by Israeli forces, evidence later revealed the Israeli Defense Forces’ actions were responsible. This incident has led to criticism of the Australian government's...

In this episode, we explore the controversial return of the Religious Discrimination Bill to federal parliament. Once thought to be a relic of the Scott Morrison era, the bill has resurfaced during Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s tenure, fulfilling a promise made during the 2022 federal election campaign. We discuss the implications of allowing religious schools the autonomy to hire staff and enroll students based on faith, amidst concerns over discrimination against non-conforming...

In this thought-provoking episode, we look at the recent political and economic developments impacting Australia and the world, starting off with the influence of world-renowned economic thinkers Mariana Mazzucato and Yanis Varoufakis—in Australia at the moment—we explore the shifting economic paradigms of governance, business, and community interests. Dr. Mazzucato’s advocacy for a collaborative approach between business, labour, and government highlights a transformative vision for...

The best analysis of all the latest events in federal politics, from one of Australia’s top ten podcasts on politics and news commentary. In this compelling episode of New Politics, we delve into the aftermath of the Dunkley byelection, an event that not only highlighted the strategic playbooks of all political parties but also underscored the ever-evolving landscape of national issues and media influence. The Labor government's victory in Dunkley, despite a swing against them, showcases...

In this episode, we explore the latest developments in Australian politics, from ambitious education reforms to the end of an era in disastrous Liberal Party leadership. First up, we unpack the recently released Universities Accord final report by the Labor government, a comprehensive plan aimed at reshaping higher education over the next few decades. From increasing the number of university-educated Australians to addressing HECS fees and funding, the report outlines ambitious goals but...

In this episode, we go into the heart of Australia's current political storm surrounding asylum seekers and border protection. Join us as we unpack the maniacal rhetoric of Peter Dutton and the Liberal Party, who have spared no effort in amplifying the arrival of 43 asylum seekers from India, Sri Lanka, and Pakistan in Beagle Bay, Western Australia. Amidst claims of a collapsing border protection system and a weak prime minister at the helm, we question the real audience and efficacy of such...

In this episode of New Politics, we look at the big week in Canberra, highlighting the continuing issues that have dominated the headlines and the halls of Parliament. Firstly, we examine the incident involving Barnaby Joyce’s public intoxication in Canberra, which reignites discussions on the standards of behaviour expected from public figures. Joyce’s actions are not just a personal failing but a reflection of broader issues within the political landscape, including double standards,...

In this episode of New Politics, we look at all the big issues in federal politics as Parliament reconvenes for 2024. The spotlight shines on the contentious Stage 3 tax cuts, a topic that has transcended beyond its decision point and into a prolonged media and Liberal Party campaign, framing it as an unparalleled breach of promise. While this narrative unfolds, we’ll explore how it’s shaping the political landscape and why it might spell more trouble for the Liberal Party than for the...

In our first episode for 2024, we delve into the recent adjustments made by the Labor government to the Stage 3 tax cuts, initially legislated by the Coalition government in 2019. Originally criticised for disproportionately benefiting high-income earners and offering minimal support to lower and middle-income demographics, these tax cuts represented a significant point in Australian politics. Despite the Labor party's historical opposition to such policies, under Prime Minister Albanese’s...

In our final episode in the summer series, we review Australia Day, also known as Invasion Day, Survival Day and Day of Mourning, First Landing Day, Foundation Day, Anniversary Day, ANA Day… but whatever it’s called, January 26 is a problematic day, most definitely for many Indigenous people, but increasingly for the non-Indigenous community as well. January 26 also seems to ignite the annual Culture War in Australia, albeit, a little bit early this year with Opposition Leader Peter Dutton's...

Our summer series continues until our regular schedule commences. This week, Eddy Jokovich and David Lewis review the war against Palestine and the events in Gaza, which began in October and continued throughout November, December, and the new year. It appears unlikely to end anytime soon. Despite global opinions, only the US and Israel can decide to end these acts of war crimes and ethnic cleansing – as early as tomorrow, if they wished. However, numerous agendas are at play here. This...

The one big issue that persisted throughout 2023 is housing affordability across the board: purchasing, renting, social housing, homelessness, and it seems that the right to shelter is one part of Australian society that has been left behind. Over the past thirty years, a home has morphed from being a place where people live into something that people invest in. This is something that needs to change. One of our most listened-to episodes from last year was the discussion with Cathy Callaghan...

Some of the leftover issues from 2023 – in fact, these are leftover issues from the past 40 years – are the behaviour of the mainstream media, a lack of diversity in ownership and political opinion, and declining standards in political reporting. One of our most listened episodes from last year was the discussion with Australian Greens Senator, Sarah Hanson-Young, who outlined the issues that need to be resolved and the kinds of reforms needed to make the media work in the interests of the...

Join us in this captivating episode of New Politics as we look at the fascinating world of Australian politics, highlighting the key events and figures that shaped the year 2023. In part 2 of our series, our analysis begins with a comprehensive review of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s performance, his soaring popularity in the first half of the year, marked by significant achievements such as the Labor government’s triumph in the Aston byelection – a historical victory not seen in over a...

In this special year-end episode, we look at the significant political events that shaped politics in 2023. From the highs and lows of governance to the pressing issues that grabbed headlines, join us as we unravel the complexities of Australian politics. Voice to Parliament: We start with an in-depth analysis of the Voice to Parliament initiative, a major theme throughout the year. Despite early momentum, the prolonged campaign witnessed dwindling support, leading to an unfortunate failure...

As the curtain falls on another year in federal politics, our latest podcast episode delves into the final dramas that marked the closing sessions of Parliament. At the forefront is the contentious issue of immigration detention, sparked by a High Court decision deeming indefinite detention of asylum seekers and stateless individuals unlawful. The rush to enact legislation before year-end exposes the complex and often polarised nature of immigration policy, with both major parties...