The Briefing

Thursday Headlines: One Nation support surges among women, inner-city livers and the wealthy Netanyahu brushes off tensions as Trump confirms fiery phone call Australia among countries facing new US tariffs 80% of cigs and vapes smoked in Australia last year were illegal Lisa Jane Spencer faces backlash for skit mocking Aboriginal Australians NSW to allow medicinal cannabis users to drive Deep Dive: We already know that our increasing appetite for all things AI has the potential to harm the planet and our hip pockets, with energy-hungry data centres needed to power the demand. A new report by the Climate Council has highlighted this fact, with fears of a 25% increase in electricity prices by 2035 and 3x growth in water consumption and energy needs in less than four years if things keep going unchecked. But there are ways for data centres to be green, with the Climate Council s CEO Amanda McKenzie explaining how on this episode of The Briefing. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: GDP growth in March quarter was 0.3%, lower than expected Carlton dick pic case to be heard in public Protests in Britain over police actions during stabbing death Active fighting again between Iran and the US Bear attacks in Japan are on the rise Deep Dive: The accounting firm KPMG is in crisis, after a whistleblower revealed KPMG had used confidential client information to secure further work for itself. Accounting firms are meant to be the upstanding citizens of the corporate world now, though, KPMG is at risk of losing customers who no longer trust their documents will be kept secret. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Tansy Harcourt, senior writer for The Australian. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpod Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Israel strikes southern Lebanon despite Trump’s announcement Changes to the NDIS will cause ‘material harm’ to disabled Australians Barnaby Joyce joins anti-abortion rally in Sydney Charlie Pickering calls Grace Tame's ABC podcast 'problematic' The ‘franken-can’ named Australia’s worst packaging  Deep Dive: Tony Abbott is back in frontline Liberal Party politics, after being appointed the party’s Federal President.   But not everyone in the party is convinced it's a good idea. Supporters see Abbott as a powerful communicator who can help reconnect the Liberals with their base, while critics fear his return could overshadow leader Angus Taylor and deepen divisions between the party's conservative and moderate wings.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with AFR political editor Phillip Coorey about why Abbott is back, how much influence a party president really has, and whether his return can help reverse the Liberal Party's decline  Further listening from the headlines:“Globalise the Intifada” explained Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Minimum wages rise across Australia by 4.75% New Australian sanctions against West Bank settlers AI company Anthropic, worth $900bn, is going public Tennis legend Serena Williams is returning to the game 1,037 Marilyn Monroes celebrate her 100th birthday  Deep Dive:  “Nobody knows the true scale and severity of this outbreak,” a Médecins Sans Frontières spokesman said about the current Ebola emergency in the Congo. Officially, at least 43 people have died with 263 cases confirmed. Doctors suspect the numbers are much higher.  As the disease spreads the race for a vaccine is on. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Ebola expert and epidemiologist, Professor Paul Griffin.  Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Iran reportedly halts peace talks with US over Israeli strikes on Lebanon Peter Garrett to head independent probe into Aukus Australia hits record number of billionaires UNSW ranked best Australian uni Jill Biden reveals her reaction to Joe Biden’s disastrous presidential debate against Donald Trump Deep Dive: They may be five months away, but chatter is already ramping up ahead of the US midterm elections.  The vote – which helps decide who controls Congress – will be the first major verdict on Donald Trump’s second presidency, but factors other than his performance in the White House will be at play.  In this deep dive, Planet America’s Chas Licciardello joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to break it all down and explain how this election could signal be end of democracy.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Jim Chalmers brushes off One Nation polling  Israel expands ground offensive in Lebanon, seizes 900-year-old castle  Police investigate Melbourne house fire that killed child  Harvard speaker urges grads to “kill AI”  Deep Dive:  Complaints against NSW Police have risen by almost 70% in the last decade, and last year police paid $40 million in legal costs and settlements over alleged misconduct. Today the ABC’s Four Corners is airing an explosive report with videos of police bashing civilians, and calls for greater scrutiny.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Four Corners reporter Dylan Welch.  Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines:  One Nation becomes most popular political party in Australia Defence Minister reveals changes to AUKUS pact Searches continue in flooded Laos cave for missing miners Australian house prices fall Socceroos lose friendly as countdown to the World Cup hits two weeks Deep Dive: The government last week launched its biggest lawsuit ever: Australia is suing the US corporate giant 3M for $2 billion, alleging that 3M concealed the fact that its firefighting foam was harmful.  3M's firefighting foam was made from PFAS chemicals which scientists now say are environmental contaminants, and the government is seeking damages for the contamination of 28 military bases around Australia.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by Ian Wright, Associate Professor in Water Science at Western Sydney University, to unpack what we know about PFAS and whether the Commonwealth's case goes far enough.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elon Musk has sparked fresh space-race chatter after revealing SpaceX is shifting its focus from Mars to the Moon, with ambitions to build a “self-growing” lunar city within the next decade.   With multiple countries and private companies rolling out lunar missions, the push to develop Earth’s only natural satellite is heating up fast.   In this bonus episode of The Briefing, astrophysicist Brad Tucker from ANU joins us to break down who the major players are, what a self-growing city actually means, and why inflatable moon hotels might not be as sci-fi as they sound. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

John Safran is a cult Australian documentarian and professional bear-poker whose career has included everything from trying to join the Ku Klux Klan to getting crucified in the Philippines - and he says he’d probably still do it all again.  The filmmaker first gained fame in Race Around the World in 1997 and since then has always inserted himself into the centre of uncomfortable stories, including squatting inside Kanye West’s abandoned mansion while trying to understand the psychology behind Ye’s antisemitic spiral.   In this chat with Sacha Barbour Gatt, John shares his take on free speech in 2026, why censorship means something completely different in the internet age and how Australians are smarter than we give them credit for.   Weekend list with Helen Smith Listener Daniel TO READ: Griefdogg by Michael Winkler TO WATCH: Prime Minister (Jacinda Ardern) on Netflix TO TRY: Uber pool  TO DO: Check out Broadsheet Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Aussie Rents could increase Opposition Leader withdraws his comments Amazon Backpack in trouble with ACCC Tribute show to John Farnham announced Deep Dive:  Sports journalist Emma Lawrence made history this year as the first woman to call an NRL game, with her achievement being hailed as a win for all women in broadcasting and the industry.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Emma who reveals why she wanted to smash the glass ceiling and how her young daughter inspired her to take on one of the toughest jobs in a male dominated industry. Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines:  90% of young Aussies will be better off under tax overhaul  US and Iran agree on 60-day ceasefire extension Australian joins rescue mission for Laos villagers trapped in a cave AFP commissioner defends Ben Roberts Smith airport arrest Blues women win clean sweep of Origin Deep Dive: The way Australians think about their money has shifted amid years of uncertainty and global impacts outside their control, according to a new report.  One of the big ways we’re seeing this is in Aussies focusing on the things they can control, from joining loyalty programs and rentvesting, to splurging on things that bring them joy and prioritising travel.  In this episode of The Briefing, ING’s CEO Melanie Evans sits down with Sacha Barbour Gatt to reveal why we’re seeing this, and whether the great ‘Australian dream’ has permanently shifted from full time work and houses to side hustles and investing. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Govt. launches $2bn lawsuits against 3M over “forever chemicals”  Fourth ‘ISIS bride’ arrested and charged with terrorism offences  Trump rape accuser targeted by criminal investigation  More US strikes in Iran, alongside peace negotiations  Germany’s “most wanted” woman, 67, found guilty of armed robbery  Deep Dive:  Teenagers are having worse sex and getting more STIs. New research shows that one in five teenagers (aged 14-18) have experienced unwanted sex, and that condom use is falling. What’s happening to Australia’s teenagers?  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Professor Jennifer Power, Deputy Director of the Australian Research Centre in Sex, Health and Society, and the lead researcher of the new study into teenage sexual health.  Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines:  Appeal date set for Erin Patterson Five people found alive after week trapped in Laos cave 240,000 people to be cut from NDIS over four years Labor’s controversial tax changes to be introduced to parliament today Blues win Origin 1 in stunning comeback  Deep Dive: Australia’s courts have long allowed judges to consider “good character” references during sentencing, even in child sexual abuse cases.  For many survivors, hearing offenders described in court as “good people” or “champions of young people” can be deeply retraumatising and after years of campaigning, one Australian state has now changed its laws.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with survivor advocate and co founder of Your Reference Ain’t Relevant, Harrison James, about the new laws and why advocates believe this should become a national standard. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Inflation drops to 4.2% in year to April  Biggest shake up in the employment system in decades  Westpac hit with 26-million-dollar penalty  Europe swelters in record summer heatwave  NASA reveals plans to settle on the Moon Deep Dive: What caused the top boss of the National Anti-Corruption Commission to resign? We unpack Paul Brereton’s controversial tenure at NAC and who may be next to take on the top job...  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by UNSW Law Faculty Prof. Gabrielle Appleby.  Read her article here: We need a new anti‑corruption commissioner. Here’s how to pick the right one Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: More ‘ISIS brides’ touch down in Sydney and Melbourne  More small businesses to be exempt from CGT changes amid backlash Australia records first diphtheria-related death in almost a decade Donald Trump to undergo third physical in 13 months Europe hit by unseasonal heatwave  Aussie wildcard downs former world number one at French Open Deep Dive: The Global Sumud Flotilla set sail for Gaza two weeks ago with the intention of delivering aid to the people of Gaza, as Israel continues its land, air and sea blockade of the strip.  Instead, 428 activists on board 50 vessels were intercepted by Israeli forces and detained, with video footage of some of what they went through posted by far-right minister Itamar Ben-Givr drawing global outrage.  In this episode of The Briefing we speak with Neve O’Connor, one of the 11 Australians who were part of this group to hear her story of being captured and abused in Israeli detention.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Two men arrested in Victoria in connection to Dezi Freeman  Police renew search for missing four-year-old Gus Lamont Energy prices to fall for most households in NSW and QLD, with bigger drops for businesses US military unleashes new ‘self-defense' strikes on Iran, amid tense peace talks  The Australian share market tumbles, following news of US strikes on Iran Vivid Sydney drone shows cancelled, following technical malfunction    Deep Dive: Following the death of former AFL great and charity campaigner Neale Daniher, many are asking what is Motor Neurone Disease (MND), what are the warning signs, and what can we do to help prevent it?  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by MND Australia CEO Clare Sullivan. Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines:  Labor asks for donations to fight One Nation surge Tributes flow for Neale Daniher New group of ‘ISIS brides’ to return within days Ebola outbreak in Central Africa outpacing health response Aussie astronaut offered a spot on the ISS Enhanced Games finish with just one record broken  Deep Dive: Is Australia about to get a brand-new political party?  Canberra has been abuzz this week after reports surfaced over the weekend that the already elected Teal independents were gearing up to unite under one banner.  In this deep dive, former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull sits down with Sacha Barbour Gatt to discuss the centrist movement and whether he'd consider joining it. Further listening from the headlines:Footy's ice-cold ritualHow to be an Astronaut with Australian of the Year Katherine Bennell-PeggAntisemitism Royal Commission returns + Did the ‘steroid Olympics’ flop?Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Budget legislation is coming Thursday, as CGT pushback grows  Steggall and Spender explain why they’re exploring a new political party Royal Commission hearings return with focus on Bondi attack Second person dies of diphtheria in the Northern Territory More Aussie flotilla activists return, and Israel’s president condemns poor treatment Guzman y Gomez faces US class action lawsuit over hasty exit  Deep Dive:  Can drugs make us superhuman? That’s one question behind the Enhanced Games, the juiced-up sporting event that took place in Las Vegas throughout today. Athletes were paid big money to compete, with US$1 million for anyone who broke a world record time. In the end, only one drug-enhanced athlete did. In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Tom Decent, chief sports writer for The Sydney Morning Herald, who was at the event in Vegas. Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTub

Monday Headlines:  Flotilla activists claims of sexual assault while detained Trump says no rush for Iran deal despite it being ‘largely negotiated’ Second Australian killed in shark attack in as many weeks  Independents in 'advanced talks' to create a new political party Animals thriving in Chernobyl Exclusion Zone  Deep Dive: One of Australia’s biggest cocaine stings almost collapsed because of a behind-the-scenes turf war between Australian police and the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). At the centre of it was a $1 billion shipment linked to a Mexican cartel and a covert operation that exposed deep fractures inside the agencies meant to stop it.  A new season of Secrets We Keep, Behind the White Line, traces the journey of cocaine from narco to nostrils, uncovering the global syndicates, corruption and violence behind Australia’s appetite for the world’s glamour drug.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with investigative journalist Richard Baker about the extraordinary operation, the infighting that threatened to derail it, and the human cost behind Australia’s cocaine obsession.  Listen to Rich’s latest season of Secrets We Keep: Behind the White Line here.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when the Australian dream turns into a family nightmare?  The new Australian film Birthright takes a darkly funny look at housing inequality, intergenerational wealth and the growing divide between baby boomers and younger Australians - as more adults find themselves moving back in with their parents.  As Australia’s housing crisis deepens, the idea that hard work alone can secure a home is feeling increasingly out of reach, fuelling resentment, financial pressure and shifting family dynamics.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Zoe Pepper, writer and director of Birthright, to unpack the reality behind the satire and ask whether the ‘great Australian dream’ has become more myth than reality.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lyse Doucet is a proud Acadian woman who was born in a small town in Canada and went on to become the BBC’s chief international correspondent - having just the other week returned from reporting in Iran.  She's spent her career on the ground in some of the most dangerous and infamous war zones - ranging from Damascus to Tehran and the Ivory Coast to Gaza, but she’ll be the first to tell you that there’s a lot more to these places than the conflicts they become known for.  In this chat with Sacha Barbour Gatt, Lyse unpacks her new book which takes place inside the walls of Afghanistan’s first luxury hotel, the importance of truth in journalism and how to make a home even in the midst of bombs and wars.  You can see Lyse at Sydney Writers Festival on May 24 Weekend list with Helen Smith Listener Roxy TO WATCH: The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives on Disney+ TO WATCH: Nakba video by NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani  TO DO: Skin check! TO WATCH: At home with the Fury's on Netflix Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Australian man dies after fall on Inca Trail to Machu Picchu  Guzman y Gomez is closing its doors on US business  New Zealand’s Finance Minister invites Aussies over after latest budget changes  Stephen Colbert's Late Show finale begins  Deep Dive:  Kylie Minogue kept her second cancer diagnosis a secret – until this week. Australia’s pop princess has a tell-all Netflix documentary out now, which includes the stories of her 2021 diagnosis and her struggle to become a mum. Filled with home footage, the documentary gives an insider look at Kylie’s rise, her losses, her loves, and the music that helped her through.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by entertainment reporter Justin Hill.  Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines:  Australian flotilla activists released More ‘ISIS brides’ heading to Australia Pauline Hanson announces Norway-inspired gas policy, staffer tells journalist to ‘shut up’  New documents reveal Queen’s hopes for Andrew  Legendary BBC international correspondent Lyse Doucet on the Weekend Briefing Deep Dive: The sudden departure of Kyle and Jackie O has triggered a power struggle in Australian radio, leaving KIIS’s parent company ARN on the hunt for listeners.  In a surprising move, the network has gambled on television veterans Karl Stefanovic and Eddie McGuire to headline a brand-new national show.  In this episode of The Briefing, industry expert Craig Bruce joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to break down the strategy behind the move and whether this controversial pairing can help save the embattled network.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Paul Keating backs the CGT changes The US reveals arrest warrant for Cuban ex-president World’s first trillionaire? Two big tech companies are going public Aussie unemployment climbs higher than expected Avalon airport resumes flights after a hairy scare  Deep Dive:  Diphtheria was eradicated in Australia, so why is the government spending $7.2 million to contain an outbreak? The disease kills one in ten people, and can present as slow-healing sores or a respiratory infection – and there are now about 200 cases in Australia. Vaccination prevents the disease, but it's made a resurgence in the NT, WA, SA, and Queensland. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by epidemiologist A. Prof. Sanjaya Senanayake. Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines:  Israeli minister condemned for taunting handcuffed Gaza flotilla activists Anthony Albanese meets with the family of Kumanjayi Little Baby NRL player announces immediate retirement after MND diagnosis Queensland's new public hospital to refuse VAD or abortions Melbourne teen becomes youngest Aussie to reach Everest summit Deep Dive: AI-generated images of The Prime Minister as a startup co-founder, tradie and “silent business partner” have flooded social media this week - all in protest of one controversial Budget measure.  The government’s plan to scrap the 50% capital gains tax discount on most assets from 2027 has sparked backlash from startup founders and small business owners, who say it could punish innovation and push investment offshore.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with ABC Business Daily host Daniel Ziffer about what capital gains tax actually is, why business owners are panicking, and whether the fears stack up.  Further listening from headlines: Inside Everest’s death zone Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Minns enters the tax reform chat, as Chalmers and Taylor spar over CGT Putin arrives in China to meet Xi Jinping, days after Trump leaves Trump threatens Iran again, a day after calling off another strike Hillsong’s Houston has another problem with porn on Twitter Kylie Minogue’s second cancer diagnosis revealed in doco  Deep Dive:  The war in Iran has taken all attention away from the ongoing, four-year-long war between Russia and Ukraine. Now the tide is turning against Putin, with Ukrainian drone strikes reaching Russian cities and Russia’s army losing territory. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Dr. Malcolm Davis, defence expert at the Australian Strategic Policy Institute. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines:  DFAT seeking confirmation on the welfare of Aussies on board flotilla reportedly taken by Israel Questions about BOM efficiency after Gold Coast rainfall Australia's 'biggest diphtheria outbreak’ in decades spreads into Qld, SA and WA SA politicians walk out of One Nation leader’s maiden speech Axing carparks in apartments could make them cheaper Deep Dive: A recent social media exchange between American airline JetBlue and a customer has sparked not only a broad conversation about how companies are watching us, but also a lawsuit.  We know that our clicks are being tracked when we browse for things online and that data is being collected and used to set prices ... but this could be the first time it’s been openly admitted to.  In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by marketing expert Professor Nitika Garg who explains exactly what surveillance pricing is and how it’s being – and could be used - against us.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  47-year-old man faced court after being charged over alleged murder of wife and two children PM Anthony Albanese addresses AI images slamming tax changes Five dead after Mosque shooting in US Bunnings bomb threat in Brisbane Shakria to be paid nearly $90 million AU  Deep Dive: A bombshell new report has revealed a concerning amount of alcohol sold at Australian bottle shops is contaminated.  The top drug and alcohol experts found unsafe levels of methanol and plastics during testing and are now calling for a crackdown on retailers and also better regulation.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Dr Nicholas Taylor from the National Drug Research Institute who explains how dangerous this contamination is and the deadly side effects.   Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast  YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In part two of our chat with the deputy leader of the Liberal Party, Senator Jane Hume, we get into her party’s migration policy and what the “right mix” of migrants looks like in Australia.  After announcing welfare would be limited to citizens in its budget reply, the Coalition has been asked whether it’s failed in its promise to not become ‘One Nation Lite’ and if its future could include Pauline Hanson’s party.  Hume responds to those questions, as well as Sussan Ley’s claims that the Coalition is worse off now than it was when she was dumped. Listen to part one here. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines:  Elon Musk loses high profile lawsuit against Open AI Australians among those on-board Israeli-seized Gaza flotilla Sydney triple murder a suspected domestic violence incident Global scramble underway to try to stem Ebola outbreak  Social media ban preventing Aussie teens from accessing news Two men arrested over stunt at Punch the monkey’s enclosure Deep Dive: The Coalition has spent the last year in the political wilderness, battling an increasingly influential One Nation and a failure to present genuine and clear policies.   Last week, opposition leader Angus Taylor issued his budget reply speech, with a focus on taxes and migration as a way to win back disaffected voters.   In this special two-part interview, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with the deputy leader of the Liberal Party, Senator, Jane Hume, about whether this budget platform will be the one to claw them back votes and re-cement them as a meaningful opposition to Labor.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Opposition promises to scrap Labor's tax changes  US President Donald Trump's new threat for Iran  Passenger detained and banned from Qantas after allegedly biting attendant   Thousands queue across the globe for SWATCH watch  Deep Dive: Over the weekend the World Health Organisation declared an Ebola outbreak in the Republic of Congo and Uganda as a ‘public health emergency of international concern’, following the recent Hantavirus cruise ship crisis, which has left many asking if Australia is prepared for another pandemic? Have we learnt any lessons from COVID-19 and what is needed to make sure that next time the Government gets the balance right? In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Paul Griffin, a microbiologist and director of infectious diseases at Mater Hospital, who explains why trust in the public health system is vital for prevention.   Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the second part of this special two-part deep dive, we continue to learn about the investigation that exposed a global online rape academy.  It wasn’t hiding on the dark web either, but in plain sight on forums and websites accessible by anyone with an internet connection.  So far, we’ve heard from CNN’s Kara Fox about the early days of her team’s probe, and in this episode, we learn how they tracked one of these abusers to his hometown in Poland – and what happened next.  You can read Kara and her team’s investigation piece here.  Listen to part one here. Pt 1: Exposing a global ‘rape academy’See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines:  Angus Taylor overtakes Anthony Albanese as preferred PM Tributes flow for Perth dad killed in shark attack WHO declares global health emergency over Ebola outbreak Health experts warn big tobacco is exploiting illicit market fears to unwind health gains Cops guarding king under investigation for falling asleep Deep Dive: The shocking case of Gisèle Pelicot was one that gripped the world and lead a team of investigative journalists to expose what’s come to be known as a ‘global rape academy’.   Their investigation revealed that just like Gisèle’s former husband, men around the world are taking to forums and websites to openly discuss, plan and carry out and profit from the drug facilitated sexual abuse of their partners without their knowledge as they sleep.   In this special two-part deep dive, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by CNN Senior Reporter Kara Fox, whose team tracked down perpetrators and spoke with survivors to expose the online world hiding in plain sight.   You can read Kara and her team’s investigation piece here.Listen to part two here.Pt 2: Tracking an abuser inside the global ‘rape academy’ Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An investigation into Australia’s cocaine binge, Behind the White Line, traces the trail of white powder, from narco to nostrils. The series goes inside a $1 billion shipment, exposing a police turf war between the United States' DEA, the AFP and WA cops over an audacious sting to outwit a Mexican cartel. With exclusive interviews of high-ranking detectives, undercover operatives, DEA agents and coke users, Behind the White Line, examines the human cost of the world’s glamour drug hosted by investigative journalist Richard Baker. Available from 21 May on LiSTNR's Secrets We Keep, on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For years, Colin Fassnidge was sold to Australian audiences as the gruff Irish answer to Gordon Ramsay, but off camera he’s far more thoughtful, self-aware and surprisingly soft-hearted than his TV persona suggests. After becoming a household name on My Kitchen Rules, Colin continued to travel through food and delivering TV gold, but behind the fiery one-liners and shows, he’s now opening up about therapy, burnout and the pressure of constantly performing. In this chat with Sacha Barbour Gatt, Colin opens up about the realities of making television, why a recent filming trip to Mongolia pushed him to his limits, his friendship with Pete Evans and what food still means to him after decades in the industry.  Weekend list with Helen Smith Listener Bree TO READ: Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros TO TRY: L'Oreal Paris Elvive Bond Repair shampoo and conditioner  TO EAT: Get a slow cooker! TO WATCH: Ladies of London season 4 on Hayu Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Neo-Nazis are now a prohibited hate group Hantavirus cruise passengers land in Perth Ten remain in hospital after Queensland bus crash kills one New poll has One Nation beating Labor Day Two of Trump’s China visit is underway Delta Goodrem is through to the Eurovision grand final  Deep Dive:  Housing tax reforms were at the centre of Labor’s Budget, but the big question is: will they help? Is Labor right that investment incentives are the problem, or is the Coalition right to blame migrants... or are both parties missing the biggest issues with Australia's housing market? In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by housing expert Dr Michael Fotheringham, Managing Director of the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute. Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See <a href="https

Friday Headlines: Angus Taylor has laid out his budget reply Xi says US and China ‘should be partners, not rivals’ despite earlier warning on Taiwan Leadership challenge imminent on UK PM Sir Keir Starmer  NSW wins Women’s State of Origin Sam Kerr to leave Chelsea Delta hits the Eurovision stage Deep Dive: Australia is currently deep in what some experts are calling a ‘running revolution’.   It feels like everyone and their dog are tracking their workouts on Strava, getting kitted out in the best gear and signing up for their local half-marathon.   Should you be too? In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Emeritus Professor Mark Hargreaves, an expert in physiology, to discuss. Further listening from headlines: China’s quiet role in the Iran war Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Trump boasts of high-powered delegation to China Aussie hantavirus passengers to begin their journey home Labor has a new senator, as Tammy Tyrell switches sides Budget reactions see major Aussie banks lose value  Deep Dive:  Coles misled its customers over false discounts, a Federal Court ruled today. The supermarket raised prices only to slightly drop them, and then presented the new, higher, prices as “Down Down” discounts. Coles shoppers were misled over hundreds of common supermarket items, the judge found.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Joel Gibson, consumer expert, to talk about what penalties Coles could face and whether we’ll ever be able to trust supermarkets again. Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines:  Coalition to stop non-citizens from accessing welfare  Trump arrives in Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping Aircraft secured to bring Aussies home from hantavirus outbreak US Court overturns Alex Murdaugh's murder convictions and orders new trial Evidence of dentistry found in Neanderthals Deep Dive: This week, in the shadow of the budget, the federal government dropped its long-awaited response to gambling harm.   It’s left critics not only underwhelmed with the response, but also angry at the decision to try to bury it under headlines focusing on the 2026 budget.   In this episode of The Briefing, Independent MP Kate Chaney joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to dissect the government’s response and what needs to happen next to address gambling harm in this country. Further listening from the headlines:Budget reactions, from love to hateChina’s quiet role in the Iran war Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Politicians react, and budget battle lines are drawn Iran still has missiles, according to US intelligence FBI director grilled over his drinking Inquest begins into taser death of 95yo Clare Nowland Scrapped: plans for Gold Coast Trump tower Deep Dive:  On the day after the Federal Budget we get a preview of a year’s worth of political messaging. The Coalition are calling the tax reforms an assault on aspiration, while the Greens have said the budget helps big corporations and cuts off disabled Australians. Barnaby Joyce thinks you might be better off buying a boat than investing.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Tim Lester, Politics and National Security correspondent for Channel 7.  Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jim Chalmers has handed down his fifth federal budget overnight, revealing a $45 billion improvement to the bottom line.  But amidst the numbers and policies, what are the things you should know about?  In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Chris Spyrou take you through the biggest announcements, from changes to negative gearing to a little tax time sweetener.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Soldier Lachlan Muddle dies in parachuting accident Another hantavirus infection, as Aussies wait in Netherlands Chalmers gives a final pre-budget preview UK is heading towards a leadership spill Canvas hack resolves with hackers supposedly deleting data ... and Wordle is becoming a TV game show  Deep Dive:  Australia is a data centre destination: investors and developers love our stable infrastructure and the submarine internet cables that connect us to the rest of the world. That means that we have a lot of data centres, and more on the way.  So: what exactly is a data centre? Who owns them? Who uses them? And where are they being built? In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Dr Bronwyn Cumbo from the University of Technology Sydney.  Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod  Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See

Tuesday Headlines:  Aussies on hantavirus cruise ship board flight back home Pauline Hanson says she’ll ‘never ever’ give Coalition a preference deal again Police find body believed to be Lake Cargelligo triple murderer Alleged white house dinner shooter pleads not guilty Trump says Iran ceasefire on 'life support' Dua Lipa sues Samsung Deep Dive: Australia is on the brink of a major shift in ADHD care, with GPs across the country now able, or soon to be able, to diagnose the condition for the first time.But questions remain about whether the system is ready to do it well.  Prescription rates have surged elevenfold in 20 years, access has long been unequal across regions, and each state is rolling out its own rules with little consistency in training requirements or funding.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Leanne Maskell - author, ADHD and autism advocate, founder of ADHD Works, and adviser to Australian state governments on this rollout- to explain what getting this right actually looks like in practice, and what's at stake if it goes wrong.Further listening from the headlines: Our chat with Pauline Hanson Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  One Nation aims for Western Sydney next, says Barnaby Joyce  Media boss Catalano faces court over assault allegations Trump calls Iran peace plan “TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE!” Australian pharmaceutical giant CSL suffers 17pc one-day drop Delta Goodrem walks the ‘turquoise carpet’ for Eurovision  Deep Dive:  Pauline Hanson joins Natarsha Belling for a conversation about the wipeout election in Farrer. One Nation won its first lower house seat in the federal parliament, and is already aiming for more. How does Hanson feel about the Liberal Party? Should Australians trust someone who has been to prison? Are her supporters racist? Senator Pauline Hanson responds.  Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @thebriefingpod Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast   YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcast See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Coalition leadership questions after Farrer by-election loss to One Nation Melbourne ‘ISIS brides’ to apply for bail Aussies stuck on hantavirus ship set to fly home tomorrow Woman charged after allegedly making antisemitic comments at junior netball game Best place to live in Australia revealed Deep Dive: As we head into winter, Australians are being told the same thing: get your flu jab.   But how much do we know about the vaccine we’re encouraged to get every single year? And how effective is it really?  The science behind the flu jab is more nuanced than the public messaging often suggests - and that’s something infectious disease expert Professor Peter Collignon thinks we need to talk about more honestly.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with the ANU Medical School professor, physician and microbiologist about how the flu spreads, who benefits most from vaccination, and whether public health messaging around the flu shot has become too simplistic.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For most families, Mother’s Day is about celebrating our mums and all they do for us. But for those whose mum is no longer around, it can be a pretty tough day. Research shows more than 1 million women lose their mums before the age of 44. There are fears their grief is being ignored with women reporting higher rates of depression, anxiety, prolonged grief and post-traumatic stress. So, is their pain being ignored? And what can be done to raise more awareness to make sure they get the help they need? In this rewind episode of The Briefing, we talk to Danielle Snelling – the Co-Founder of Motherless Daughters Australia to find out. If this episode has raised any issues for you, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Multiple outlets project he will claim the victory over Independent candidate Michelle Milthorpe. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Imagine writing a song in just a couple of hours that ends up with over a billion streams on Spotify, making you only the second solo female country artist in history to hit that milestone. That's the story of Dasha. The country artist freestyled the now viral line 'did your boots stop workin'?' and it changed her career trajectory - earning her fans from Australia to Europe and even inside prison walls. Dasha is rewriting what it means to be a woman in country music as she does shooeys for the crowd and follows the lead of the great Dolly Parton on how to break every rule with a smile. In this chat with Helen Smith, Dasha opens up about navigating overnight success, what she learned about gut instinct and trusting yourself and why she believes the girls are officially taking country back.  Weekend list with The Briefing Mums and Helen Smith Helen's Mum: French toast! Jade's Mum: Frozen Portuguese Tarts from Aldi Sacha's Mum: The Life Impossible by Matt Haig Kurt's Mum: Kick your shoes off, be in the moment and do something you love Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines:  Renewed fighting in the Strait of Hormuz NT announces review into child protection system Julie Bishop resigns as ANU Chancellor ‘ISIS brides’ charged, and are set to apply for bail on Monday More budget announcements: $3.8bn for Melbourne’s rail project ... and talk of a French Open boycott  Deep Dive:  Months after Dezi Freeman escaped into the bush after killing two police officers, nobody was sure if he was even still alive. One journalist, Cassie Zervos, followed the case even as the trail went cold. Then, months into the hunt, Zervos received two text messages from her police contacts: “DF found”, and “DF dead”.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Cassie Zervos to talk about the search for Freeman, and the speculation about how he might have survived on the run for so long.  Follow The Briefing:   TikTok: @t

Friday Headlines:  ‘ISIS Brides’ arrested and expected to face court today Vigils held across the country to honour five-year-old Kumanjayi Little Baby WHO assures the world hantavirus outbreak isn’t the next Covid Man arrested after allegedly threatening former Prince Andrew with a weapon Parasitic wasp named after David Attenborough for his 100th birthday Deep Dive: David Attenborough is 100 today and to celebrate a centenary of extraordinary storytelling and wildlife filmmaking, we’re taking look back on his career.  From the accidental presenter of Zoo Quest in the 1950s, to the most trusted voice in the natural world, he’s also received two knighthoods, has had 30 species named after him and is a fierce advocate for action on climate change.  In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by science broadcaster, journalist, and longtime host of ABC RN's The Science Show, Robyn Williams AO, who has known and worked alongside Sir David for decades, to discuss the documentarian’s incredible life.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.