ABC News Daily

Pauline Hanson has spent the week offending everyone from Andrew Hastie to the Prime Minister and Indigenous Australians, drawing widespread condemnation.   But is hitting back at her personally the best way to respond?   Today, Sean Kelly, columnist and former adviser to Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd on the way major parties are shifting their approach to Pauline Hanson and One Nation.  Featured:   Sean Kelly, columnist for The Age and Sydney Morning Herald and former Labor prime minister advisor.

For months, the Strait of Hormuz has been in chaos amid the ongoing conflict between Donald Trump and Iran.   But now, the global oil supply faces a new threat.   Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen are setting their sights on the Red Sea, putting a second critical shipping corridor in the crosshairs.   Today, former US Special Envoy to Yemen, Tim Lenderking, on the latest escalation and what it means for the global economy.  Featured:   Tim Lenderking, former US Special Envoy to Yemen and Middle East Institute Distinguished Diplomatic Fellow

Last week, an Anthropic researcher warned that rapidly advancing AI could lead to human extinction in the not-too-distant future.  Then tech bosses joined the call for countries and companies to work together to slow the race towards artificial super intelligence.   Today, AI philosopher Nick Bostrom on just how bad unbridled AI could get and whether we need to put the brakes on before it’s too late. Featured: Nick Bostrom, AI philosopher

The migration policy debate in Australia has shifted over the years from boat arrivals and refugees to a new battleground: the size of the net overseas migration intake.   And Pauline Hanson has managed to put the push for lower numbers back at the centre of the political debate.   But how much control does the government really have? Today, David Speers, host of tonight's ABC National Forum on migration, on whether the system we have needs a total rethink.    Featured:   David Speers, host of Insiders and the ABC’s National Forum

Donald Trump has hit the campaign trail in Texas as the clock ticks down to the midterms.   But is the president becoming more of a hindrance than a help to Republican candidates? With the war in Iran dragging on and taking a toll on Trump’s standing, could his biggest political liability now be the conflict he started?   Today, Nate Swanson, a former Iran negotiator on whether Donald Trump is getting ready to declare the war is over.  Featured:   Nate Swanson, Director and Resident Senior Fellow at the Atlantic Council's Iran Strategy Project

Algorithms are deciding almost everything we see online, and concern is growing about the kinds of content social media is feeding us and our kids.   Now the government wants to give us more control of our feeds, proposing laws that could force tech companies to let users 'opt out' of recommendation algorithms.   Today, Daniel Angus, digital communications expert, on how algorithms became so powerful in the first place -  and whether we can ever escape them.   Featured:   Daniel Angus, director of the Digital Media Research Centre at Queensland University of Technology

One Nation wants to give renters and borrowers early access to some of their retirement savings in a new policy proposal it says will help ease the cost-of-living pressure.  It's reignited a fierce debate about the future of the scheme.   Today, former political strategist and pollster Kos Samaras on whether superannuation is about to become a political battleground once again and if it's a fight voters even want. Featured:   Kos Samaras, Director of strategy and analytics at Redbridge Group

Bond markets around the world are under pressure, as investors sell bonds and demand higher returns to lend governments money. It's pushing up borrowing costs and the effects can flow through to the mortgages, bank loans and credit cards we rely on every day.  So, what’s driving the global bond sell off, and is the Trump administration's ballooning government debt to blame? Today, Justin Wolfers, professor of economics and public policy at the University of Michigan, explains what’s happening in the bond market and what it means for your money.   Featured:   Justin Wolfers, professor of economics at the University of Michigan and founder of Platypus Economics

In the 2000s, a wave of cheap Chinese goods that flooded global markets and wiped out manufacturing jobs became known as the China Shock.   Now it's sequel, China Shock 2.0 has arrived.   But this time, China isn't just exporting cheap goods. It's taking on the world in cutting-edge technology, from AI to electric vehicles and robotics.     Today, economist David Autor, who helped coin the phrase 'China Shock' and is one of Time magazine's most influential people of 2026 in AI, on whether the world is ready for it.  Featured:   David Autor, Professor in the MIT Department of Economics

According to Donald Trump, Pete Hegseth is doing a 'fantastic job' running the US military.   But this week one of his most senior officials, the Army Secretary, quit after months of tensions with Hegseth, who has already purged dozens of other senior generals and admirals.   Today, staff writer at The Atlantic Missy Ryan on the turmoil at the Pentagon, and how long Hegseth will continue to have Trump’s backing.  Featured:   Missy Ryan, staff writer at The Atlantic

In 2017, billionaire Sanjeev Gupta arrived in Whyalla promising to save the town’s struggling steelworks and hundreds of local jobs.  But nearly a decade later, the steelworks is still fighting for survival. Gupta's business empire has unravelled and he has left Australia along with the promises he made.  So what went wrong?  Today, former Media Watch host Paul Barry takes us inside the rise and fall of Sanjeev Gupta’s steel dream and how he fooled Whyalla and the world.  Featured:   Paul Barry, author of The Big Steel: How steel tycoon Sanjeev Gupta fooled Australia and the world

Dr. John All is a mountaineer and scientist who nearly lost his life after falling more than 20 meters down an icy crevasse while researching how quickly the Himalayas are melting.  A week after a catastrophic flood struck the Nepal-Tibet border, he warns the tragedy we’ve seen in the region could be repeated as pollution and rising temperatures turn mountain ice into water.   Today, he speaks about researching climate change in treacherous terrain, and how soon the Himalayan glaciers could disappear.   Featured:   John All, mountaineer and co-founder of the American Climber Science Program

Pauline Hanson is on a roll.  The latest test came over the weekend in a by-election for the small coastal electorate of Secret Harbour, south of Perth, where almost 40 per cent of voters gave One Nation their first-preference vote -- numbers that Labor and the Coalition could only dream of at this point.  Today, Michelle Grattan, chief political correspondent at The Conversation, on the One Nation blitz. Featured:   Michelle Grattan, chief political correspondent at The Conversation

As the US hurtles towards the November midterms, data centres have become a major election issue, with politicians across the political divide joining voters in demanding a moratorium on new construction.   Even Erin Brockovich is getting involved in a campaign sweeping the country.   Today, Nicol Turner Lee, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, on the backlash against data centres and what it says about Australia’s approach as the debate heats up.  Featured:  Nicol Turner Lee, senior fellow at the Brookings Institution

Since Donald Trump launched his war in Iran, the MAGA movement has been dramatically split over the military action.  Once a key Trump supporter, high profile media personality Tucker Carlson has turned on the US president, fuelling speculation he could make his own presidential bid in 2028.   Today, New Yorker magazine staff writer Jason Zengerle on whether the podcaster could become the president.  Featured:   Jason Zengerle, New Yorker magazine staff writer

Canada's Prime Minister Mark Carney has come out swinging, outlining a major retaliation against US President Donald Trump's latest wave of tariffs.  The two neighbours have been spiralling towards an escalating trade war since negotiations collapsed last week.  But could Canada’s response inspire other countries like Australia to push back against Trump's tariffs too?  Today, David Smith from the United States Studies Centre on Mark Carney's defiance against the US and whether we should follow suit.   Featured: David Smith, Associate Professor of US Studies at the United States Studies Centre

In a landmark US court case, attorneys general representing 29 states are suing Meta, the company behind Facebook and Instagram, accusing it of knowingly harming children and designing its platforms to keep young users hooked on scrolling. It's being likened to the wave of lawsuits filed against big tobacco companies in the 1990s. If the states are successful, the ruling could have far-reaching consequences for Meta's business model, and for the way all of us use social media. Today, Dara Kerr, tech reporter with The Guardian US on what could be Meta's big tobacco moment Featured: Dara Kerr, tech reporter for The Guardian US

It took a week, but the head of the AFL has now fronted the press over the Swans scandal.   CEO Andrew Dillon has distanced the sport from the Sydney club, saying the actions of a few do not define an entire code.  Today, investigative sports reporter Jessica Halloran on the AFL's response and why it's not enough.   Featured:   Jess Halloran, ABC investigative sports reporter

In October, Israelis will head to the polls, with Benjamin Netanyahu fighting to remain in power.  Looming over the election are the war with Iran, the aftermath of the October 7th Hamas attack, and the ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon.   And then there’s the West Bank, where settler violence has surged again. Today, Sari Bashi, an Israeli-American human rights lawyer, joins us from the West Bank to explain what’s driving the latest tensions.   Featured:    Sari Bashi, human rights lawyer and Executive Director of the Public Committee Against Torture in Israel

This week, US President Donald Trump has threatened to bomb Oman, scaled back military drills with South Korea and continued his tariff fight with Canada.  Meanwhile, he’s been speaking warmly about North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and says he plans to meet with him later this year.  Today, Michael Green from the US Studies Centre at the University of Sydney on what’s behind Trump’s latest moves and why he keeps rattling America’s long-standing alliances.  Featured:  Michael Green, Sydney University's United States Studies Centre CEO and former special assistant to US president George Bush

Two months since Pauline Hanson's Press Club address calling for monoculturalism in Australia, new polling shows more Australians prefer her stance on immigration than that of either of the major parties. Today, Tony Barry, a former Liberal party strategist and director at Redbridge Group on One Nation's appeal. Featured: Tony Barry, former Liberal party strategist and Redbridge Group director

It's the sort of allegation that over the decades has rocked sporting codes and the AFL. Allegations of sexual assault have embroiled four Sydney Swans players. Today, AFL player agent Peter Jess, about how the sports protocols need to change, and Victoria University sports expert Matthew Klugman on AFL culture.  Featured: Matthew Klugman, Victoria University sports expert Peter Jess, AFL player agent

It was one of the most watched criminal court cases in history, and now it's back. Mushroom killer Erin Patterson's appeal against her conviction for murdering three lunch guests and attempting to murder a fourth begins this week. Today, RMIT criminologist and lawyer Brianna Chesser, on why Patterson's lawyers argue she's been the victim of a miscarriage of justice. Featured: Brianna Chesser, RMIT criminologist and lawyer

Footage of a Russian drone stalking and attacking a Ukrainian vegetable seller has offered a glimpse into the dystopian way Russia is fighting its war in Ukraine.   Meanwhile, Ukraine’s rapid drone innovation is transforming what these cheap devices can do on the battlefield.   Today, staff writer at The Atlantic, Anne Applebaum, on the new age of drone warfare and why the rest of the world needs to be ready for what comes next.  Featured:  Anne Applebaum, staff writer for The Atlantic

Anthony Albanese’s comments on a comedy podcast last month about the Japanese prime minister’s gift of melons have been making headlines all week.  It’s the second time he’s faced backlash over the podcast episode, after remarks he made about Kylie Minogue sparked controversy last time.  Today, the ABC’s Annabel Crabb on what prompted a second round of outrage, the fallout that’s followed and why it all went so wrong for the Prime Minister.  Featured:   Annabel Crabb, ABC writer and presenter

When Donald Trump flew out of the NATO summit in Türkiye last month, he switched from the newly renovated, Qatari-donated jet to an older Air Force One, telling reporters it was 'for old time's sake.' But new details about the swap reveal that a credible threat from Iran prompted the president to then be secretly whisked off the old plane, into a catering container and transferred to another aircraft, leaving the press pack and some of his top officials behind. Today, Washington Post White House reporter Dan Diamond on the ruse. Featured: Dan Diamond, White House reporter for The Washington Post

After its latest meeting, the Reserve Bank has kept interest rates on hold. But should we get used to rates being higher than we've become used to in recent history? Today, ABC finance expert Alan Kohler on what to expect in the months ahead and why the real housing price slump has only just begun. Featured: Alan Kohler, ABC finance presenter and columnist

For years, Anthony Albanese has stood firm on how far he’s willing to go on gambling reform.   But after former NRL player-turned-influencer Luke Bateman delivered compelling testimony on his years as a problem gambler to a senate inquiry last week, the Prime Minister now looks ready to go further.   Today, chief digital political correspondent Clare Armstrong on what changed and how Bateman’s testimony helped convinced him.  Featured:  Clare Armstrong is the ABC's chief digital political correspondent

It’s one of the strangest showdowns in political history: a man dressed as a bin taking on a populist right-wing leader.  But this week, British voters in the seaside electorate of Clacton will decide between Count Binface or Reform's Nigel Farage.  Today, Jemma Forte, co-host of the Trawl podcast on Nigel Farage’s controversial decision to resign and spark a by-election, and why a win for the bin can’t be ruled out. Featured: Jemma Forte, UK politics commentator and co-host of The Trawl podcast.

It’s been dubbed the 'Mamdani effect': support for democratic socialists has been surging since Zoran Mamdani was elected mayor of New York last year.   Now another progressive, Abdul El-Sayed, has defeated a moderate to win Michigan’s Democratic Senate primary.  Today, Geoff Kabaservice from the centre-right think tank, the Niskanen Center, on what this shift means for the Democratic Party, and whether the party’s leftward momentum poses a threat to Donald Trump and the Republicans.  Featured:   Geoff Kabaservice, Vice President for political studies at the Niskanen Centre

Pauline Hanson wants to be the next Prime Minister but will avoiding scrutiny from some of the biggest media outlets in the country help her get there?   Or will the Trump-like tactic be a turn off for voters?  Today, former ABC correspondent Monica Attard from UTS on Senator Hanson's ban on several Australian news outlets and whether there’s any way to stop her doing it.  Featured:   Monica Attard, Co-Director of the Centre for Media Transition, University of Technology

For years Australia managed to avoid it, but the H5 strain of the bird flu virus is now taking hold after the first mass mortality of birds was confirmed this week.   So much of our native wildlife is at risk, as well as the commercial poultry and egg farming industries.  Today, epidemiologist Raina MacIntyre on how quickly the virus is spreading and why its arrival at poultry, and potentially cattle farms, could have devastating consequences.  Featured:   Raina MacIntyre, epidemiologist and Professor of Global Biosecurity at the UNSW

The cut to the fuel excise has ended, causing petrol prices across the country to spike.   With conflict in the Middle East continuing to strain global oil supplies, many drivers are wondering how long the pain at the bowser will last.   Today, energy expert at MST financial Saul Kavonic on the world’s diminishing oil supply and whether we’re all out of fixes.  Featured:   Saul Kavonic, Senior Energy Analyst at MST Financial

AI glasses are the latest evolution in wearable tech, and thanks in part to celebrity endorsements like Kylie Jenner’s campaign for Meta’s smart glasses, they're taking off.   But these devices, dubbed ‘pervert glasses’ by some critics, are raising fresh concerns about privacy and surveillance.   Today, Dr Milica Stilinovic, a researcher at University of Sydney’s Governing Immersive Tech project on why they’ve become so popular and the risks that come with them.  Featured:   Dr Milica Stilinovic, Postdoctoral Research Associate at the University of Sydney’s Governing Immersive Tech project.

When OpenAI revealed its AI models went rogue during safety testing, science fiction suddenly became a reality.   Since then, the company has revealed that the AI cyber-attack affected four separate companies. So, what happens when humans can no longer contain this technology?   Today, AI safety researcher and co-author of ‘If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies’, Nate Soares, on what happens when AI goes rogue.    Featured:   Nate Soares, president of the Machine Intelligence Research Institute and co-author of ‘If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies’

It was the first face-to-face meeting between Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and US President Donald Trump since the war with Iran began almost six months ago.   But the relationship between the two leaders isn’t what it was at the start of the conflict.   Today, Barbara Slavin, a distinguished fellow at the Stimson Centre on what Netanyahu was hoping to achieve by meeting with Trump and what it means for the future of the war.    Featured:   Barbara Slavin, Distinguished Fellow at The Stimson Center

After becoming one of the most unpopular leaders in Australia’s history, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan reluctantly gave up the top job.   Then, following a chaotic bout of Labor Party infighting, her deputy Ben Carroll emerged as her successor.   Today, Jon Faine, former host of Mornings on ABC Radio Melbourne, on Jacinta Allan’s downfall and how she couldn’t escape the shadow of her predecessor. Featured:   Jon Faine, former host of Mornings on ABC Radio Melbourne

When you pick up a product at the supermarket, you trust what's written on the label. So, when it says an ingredient was sourced in Australia, why wouldn't you believe it? Today, Adele Ferguson on her exclusive Four Corners investigation into the food fraud hiding in plain sight.  Featured:   Adele Ferguson, Investigative reporter at ABC’s Four Corners

AI has taken the grunt work out of many everyday tasks; from writing emails to planning dinner.   But are we starting to rely on AI to think for us and could it be making us dumber?   Today, Steven Shaw from the University of Pennsylvania on his research into cognitive surrender, AI and your brain.  Featured:   Steven Shaw, post-doctoral researcher at Wharton Marketing School, University of Pennsylvania and incoming associate professor at Kings College London.

This week, Pauline Hanson has again declared that she could become Prime Minister after the next election. But could she?   Or will her recent European tour and a string of controversial comments from immigration to domestic violence start to turn voters away?   Today, former Liberal Party strategist and Redbridge Group director Tony Barry on what voters are saying, and why Pauline Hanson is increasingly setting the political agenda.    Featured:   Tony Barry, Redbridge Group director

At the end of last week Elon Musk’s much-hyped SpaceX shares took a tumble just over a month after the company went public.   But what does that mean for the big AI companies and for the so-called AI bubble.   Today AI critic and host of the Better Offline podcast Ed Zitron on why he thinks it will all come crashing down.  Featured:  Ed Zitron, host of Better Offline podcast and EZ Primary Research CEO

Donald Trump's MOU with Iran was supposed to stop the war and then end it.   Now it's barely worth the paper it's written on. The bombing has resumed. The Strait of Hormuz remains largely shut. And now the conflict is spreading to the Red Sea, with the Houthis declaring a blockade on Saudi shipping.   So, is this what a forever war looks like?   Today, former US State Department Middle East negotiator Aaron David Miller on the few options Donald Trump has left Featured: Aaron David Miller, Senior Fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and former Middle East Negotiator at the US State Department

Pauline Hanson has spent the past fortnight in Europe spruiking her anti-immigration policies which have long been familiar to Australian voters.   But beyond immigration, what does One Nation actually want for the economy?   Today, ABC business and economics reporter Gareth Hutchens looks at the policies that have received far less attention and what Australia's economy could look like under One Nation.    Featured:   Gareth Hutchens, ABC business and economics reporter

For thousands of years the question of extending life or living forever has occupied minds.   But now it’s taken on a new life, from peptides, to IV drips and experimental treatments targeting the heart or kidneys, there’s a buzz around longevity.   Today, Dr Norman Swan on his Four Corners investigation into the big business and the science behind the quest to live healthier for longer.  Featured:   Dr Norman Swan, co-host of the Health Report and What’s that Rash on ABC Radio National

When Donald Trump went to the NATO summit in Ankara, he took one plane in and a different one out.   They were both called Air Force One, but one is 35 years old and is believed to have advanced safety features and the other was a retrofitted luxury 747 given to the US by Qatar.   Why did the US president not fly out on the newer plane that he loves so much?   New York Times journalists have received subpoenas after sources told them it was due to safety precautions related to the war with Iran.   Today, staff writer at The Atlantic, David A. Graham, on the president's planes and the latest attack on the press.  Featured:   David A. Graham, staff writer at The Atlantic

It was dubbed a landmark speech on how the government will deal with the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence and data centres.  But did Prime Minister Anthony Albanese really address the key concerns as the big tech giants move to expand their businesses and even train AI models here?    Today, Kimberlee Weatherall an expert in AI regulation from Sydney University on how proposed new laws just touch the surface.   Featured:   Kimberlee Weatherall, law professor at the University of Sydney and co-director of the Centre for AI, trust and governance

Telstra says its sorry for letting Australians down after last week’s nationwide outage, but how is it going compensate customers left out of pocket?  The telco will face questions in a parliamentary hearing later this week on the cause and the effects of the outage, which blocked hundreds of emergency calls and brought down payment systems and even regional trains.   Today, national consumer affairs reporter Michael Atkin on whether Telstra is going to be held to account.  Featured:   Michael Atkin, ABC national consumer affairs reporter

Relatively cheap EVs from China are increasingly seen on Australian roads.   But you won’t find many in the US, because of hefty tariffs and bans due to national security concerns.  Now Swedish based, but Chinese owned Polestar is set to stop selling in the US market from next year due to a crackdown on Chinese-linked vehicles.   Today, cyber security expert and former advisor to prime minister Malcolm Turnbull, Alastair MacGibbon on what the Chinese government could do to the cars if it really wanted to.   Featured:   Alastair MacGibbon, cyber security expert

When you say 'affordable housing' there’s a natural scepticism.   Across the country developers are being offered perks to be part of schemes supposed to give people a chance to rent without draining their pay packets.  But who gets to live in these 'affordable’ rentals and who sets the rent and when it can go up?   Today, Pat McGrath on his Four Corners investigation into whether 'affordable’ rentals actually are affordable. Featured:   Pat McGrath, ABC investigative reporter

It’s the most lucrative sports broadcast deal in history, worth $5.3 billion for seven years.  The deal between the NRL and broadcasters Nine and Foxtel outstrips the previous $4.5 billion deal the AFL secured in 2022.  Today, sports media expert Merryn Sherwood from La Trobe University on how the rugby league managed it and who ultimately pays the cost.  Featured: Merryn Sherwood, Senior Lecturer in journalism at La Trobe University

On Monday, China’s military launched a nuclear capable ballistic missile over the Pacific Ocean from a submarine hidden in the sea off China.  It gave Australia and other nations about 24 hours’ notice.   So, what’s XI Jinping up to?   Today, Sam Roggeveen from the Lowy Institute on China’s massive expansion of its nuclear arsenal and what it means for us.  Featured:   Sam Roggeveen, director of the International Security Program at the Lowy Institute

Even an extraordinary intervention by the US president couldn’t save his soccer team, with the USA now out of the FIFA World Cup after being thrashed by Belgium.  Donald Trump has admitted calling FIFA to urge the governing body to overturn a red card ban for the star American player Folarin Balogun.  He was allowed to play after what FIFA insists was an independent process, but has the meddling undermined the World Cup?   Today, sport integrity expert Catherine Ordway on what it says about the sport and what needs to change.  Featured:   Catherine Ordway, sport integrity expert from the University of New South Wales Canberra Business School

Vladimir Putin's war is running off course as the Russian capital Moscow comes under repeated Ukrainian attack.   Ukrainian strikes are leading to major fuel shortages and growing discontent among the Russian people. Today, Simon Shuster, a staff writer at The Atlantic magazine on how Putin is reacting to growing pressure.   Featured: Simon Shuster, The Atlantic magazine

Last month the Trump administration forced AI company Anthropic to shut down two of its most powerful models because of national security concerns.  It’s now lifted the ban, but while attention has been on the US, China has released an AI model that rivals the most advanced American offerings at a much lower price.  Today, ABC finance expert Alan Kohler on what that means the tech bros in Silicon Valley.  Featured:   Alan Kohler, ABC finance presenter and columnist

For decades, the US has been one of Israel’s staunchest allies.  But there’s a shift underway in America. US President Donald Trump and his deputy JD Vance have publicly criticised the Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu and polling shows Americans have increasingly negative views of his government.   Today, Guy Ziv, associate director of Israel studies at American University on what’s driving the backlash.  Featured:   Guy Ziv, associate professor at American University’s Department of Foreign Policy and Global Security and associate director of Israel studies at American University

A data centre boom is underway that promises to help drive Australia’s economic growth.   We’re seen as a key location for the data centres that drive the latest AI technology.   But a lot of the revenue generated by the multinational big tech firms won’t come anywhere near Australia, so should the taxpayers hosting the data centres get a bigger cut of the profits?  Today, independent economist Saul Eslake on how we’re cashing in on AI.  Featured:   Saul Eslake, independent economist

When the Iran war broke out, we were warned of an oil shock not seen since the 1970s when fuel was rationed.   We were told the price of oil could reach $200 a barrel and airlines might ground planes.   But that hasn’t happened and now petrol prices are back down to where they were before the war.   Today the ABC’s Laura Tingle on how China is cushioning the world economy.  Featured:   Laura Tingle, ABC Global Affairs Editor

One Nation has had a seismic surge in support since the start of the year, so how is it managing to attract attention and potentially voters?   Part of it is One Nation and Pauline Hanson’s prolific use of social media.   At the same time, we’ve seen former Nine journalist Karl Stefanovic embrace podcasting that platforms right-wing figures.  Today, marketing expert Toby Ralph on why outrage goes so well online.  Featured:   Toby Ralph, marketing strategist who specialising in persuasion

We love Aussie rules football, but like other contact sports it comes with risk of head knocks for the players.  New figures based on analysis of the brains of deceased players, reveal a big increase in the number of them known to have the degenerative brain disease CTE.  Is the AFL doing enough to support families after a tragedy and inform players at all levels of the game about the risks associated with football?  Today, Four Corners reporter Jess Halloran on her investigation into CTE and the AFL.   Be aware, this episode discusses mental health and suicide. If you or anyone you know needs help, you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14  Featured:   Jess Halloran, Four Corners reporter

The US Vice President JD Vance is the chief negotiator, tasked with coming up with a enduring peace deal with Iran.  But is the United States willing to put in the time and the effort to seal a new deal with the Islamic Republic?  Today, Nate Swanson, who worked on Iran policy in the Obama, Biden and Trump administrations on why a deal may never be done.  He explains his view that Iran risks overplaying its hand and giving away it’s ‘golden ticket’ security guarantee if it pursues short term gains with fees on ships in the Strait of Hormuz.   Featured:   Nate Swanson, resident senior fellow and director of the Iran Strategy Project at the Atlantic Council

It’s an AI company valued at almost a trillion dollars, but Donald Trump is clipping Anthropic’s wings.  The US president effectively banned the company's state of the art Claude AI models Mythos 5 and Fable 5, citing security concerns.  But how founded are those concerns and is it problem that the US government can control the release of groundbreaking AI?   Today, Sharon Goldman, journalist and founder of Ground Level AI on what happens next.  Featured:   Sharon Goldman, journalist and founder of Ground Level AI

There’s a revolving door at 10 Downing Street, a prime minister goes in and they’re popped out again.  This time it was Keir Starmer.    Can his likely successor, the former Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham last the distance?   Today, Simon Tormey, Professor of Politics at Deakin University on why Britain’s woeful economy will make it hard.    Featured:   Simon Tormey, Professor of Politics and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts and Education at Deakin University

Before the war it was open, safe and toll free, but now the Strait of Hormuz has become one of the biggest problems for Donald Trump as he tries to end the war and keep peace talks on track.  While the global oil supply has been disrupted for months, petrol price here are now as low as they were before the war began.  Today, energy analyst Kevin Morrison on how long that can last.  Featured:   Kevin Morrison, energy analyst, Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis

Ukraine is now striking deep inside Russia using drones developed during its war with its invading neighbour.  At the same time, the Ukrainian military has been regaining some its territory using short range drones.  The embrace of new technologies is giving Ukraine an edge in the war and bringing to fight to Vladimir Putin’s doorstep.   But that doesn’t mean the war is set to end any time soon.   Today, Professor Michael C. Horowitz, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations on how Ukraine is changing the war.     Featured:   Michael C. Horowitz, senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations and a professor at the University of Pennsylvania

This week Pauline Hanson addressed the National Press Club and a new poll showed she is Australia’s preferred prime minister.  Today, columnist, author and academic, Waleed Aly, on how One Nation could win the next election and why it’s so hard for the major parties to stop the rise of Pauline Hanson.  Featured:   Waleed Aly, co-host of The Minefield on ABC Radio National, a columnist, author and politics lecturer at Monash University

Australia’s Socceroos were underdogs going into their World Cup match against Türkiye.   They achieved a surprise win, but can they do the same in their next match against the host nation USA?   The young team and coach Tony Popovic will have to beat the odds.  Today, sport journalist Niav Owens, who’s a host of the SBS coverage of the FIFA World Cup, on why it might not be an easy win for the Americans and what success could mean for football in Australia.  Featured:   Niav Owens, host of the SBS FIFA World Cup coverage

Australia led the way, now the UK government has announced its own ban on social media for under 16s.  But six months since the restrictions came into force here, are they really working, given most young teenagers who were using social media still are?    Today, Amanda Third, co-director of the Young and Resilient Research Centre at Western Sydney University on what we need to do to help our children be safe online.  Featured:   Professor Amanda Third, co-director of the Young and Resilient Research Centre at Western Sydney University, an academic advisor to the eSafety Commissioner and a faculty associate at the Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society at Harvard University

A new deal between Iran and the United States to stop the fighting and negotiate is not even signed yet, but the US president insists the Strait of Hormuz is set to open.  Donald Trump has declared ‘let the oil flow’, even though the memorandum of understanding won’t be signed until Friday in Switzerland.   But what did the United States have to give Iran to secure the ceasefire agreement and is it any better that Obama’s deal with Iran? Today, international relations expert Rajan Menon on whether the ceasefire can hold given Israel’s strikes in Lebanon.   Featured:   Rajon Menon, professor emeritus of international relations at the City College New York and a senior research scholar at Columbia University’s Saltzman Institute of War and Peace Studies.

GLP-1 drugs were first approved to treat diabetes and then caused a frenzy when it was discovered they were great for weight loss.  But now scientists are discovering the drugs that have brand names including Ozempic and Mounjaro might offer so much more, from reducing the risk of heart attack to treating kidney disease.  Today, Doctor Paul Joyce, a pharmaceutical scientist at Adelaide University on how Ozempic is shaking things up, again.  Featured:   Doctor Paul Joyce, a pharmaceutical scientist at Adelaide University

When Donald Trump stormed out of an interview after hurling abuse at the female anchor it wasn’t surprising, he often attacks those who dare to challenge him.   But why does the US president continually get away with it with little push back from the press?   Today, host of ABC Radio National’s Saturday Extra, Nick Bryant on his encounters with Donald Trump and the changing media landscape in the US.  Featured:   Nick Bryant, host of ABC Radio National’s Saturday Extra and writer ‘History Never Ended’ Substack

Donald Trump keeps saying a deal with Iran to end the war is close, but there are no signs of it.  Iran and the US have been engaged in retaliatory strikes and Israel is pushing further into Lebanon.   So, can the US President still get out of the war?   And how far is Israel prepared to go in its fight against Hezbollah?  Featured:   Randa Slim, director, Middle East Program at the Stimson Centre

A mobile billboard campaign has hit the streets of Melbourne, decrying the state of Victoria under the leadership of Premier Jacinta Allan.   But it’s the ‘ditch the witch’ slogan slapped next to the premier’s face that has sparked outrage.   Ms Allan says it’s sexist and misogynist, but the One Nation leader Pauline Hanson says the premier should just ‘suck it up, sweetheart’.   Today, Amy Remeikis the Chief Political Analyst at The Australia Institute and contributing editor at The New Daily on how the politics of grievance is making a comeback.  Featured:   Amy Remeikis, Chief Political Analyst at The Australia Institute

The FIFA World Cup is supposed to bring the world together.   But with fans from some countries facing US travel restrictions, the Iran war spilling into the tournament through visa disputes and controversy over soaring ticket prices, the road to the event has been anything but easy.  Today, sports journalist Tracey Holmes on how FIFA's global tournament is colliding with the realities of Trump's America.   Featured:   Tracey Holmes, host of The Sports Ambassador podcast

America’s big tech bosses are trying to get artificial intelligence deployed everywhere, taking over our homes, our hobbies and our work.   By now, most of us are using AI for daily tasks, even if by accident.  But it doesn’t mean we all agree with the path we’re on and increasingly people are voicing their concerns about the AI revolution.   Today, the ABC’s national AI reporter Cam Wilson on the growing backlash.  Featured:   Cam Wilson, ABC’s national AI reporter

Donald Trump is pondering whether a UFC cage could become a permanent fixture on the South Lawn of the White House after a fight takes place there on his 80th birthday.   Today, Sally Jenkins from The Atlantic magazine on Trump’s deep links to the mixed martial arts organisation.   We explore how bringing the sport’s ‘savagery’ to the seat of power in the US is all part of Trump’s norm-breaking style and aggressive approach to politics.  Editor's note: This episode includes the following description of UFC bouts; “you're watching crotch kicking, bare knuckle brawling, anything goes, squeezing the throat of an opponent.” However, the UFC website states it adopted the Unified Rules of MMA in November 2000, these include fouls for throat strikes and groin attacks. Fighters are also required to wear gloves.  Featured:   Sally Jenkins, a staff writer at The Atlantic

Should we be spending up to $368 billion on nuclear powered submarines over the next 30 years?  Peter Garrett, the former Labor Minister and Midnight Oil star doesn’t think so. He’s set up a crowdfunded inquiry into the AUKUS submarine deal.  It follows the government revealing the original agreement has changed a bit with the US to switch out one new sub for a second hand one.  Today, Sam Roggeveen, director of the Lowy Institute’s International Security Program, on the growing concerns about the deal and what we really need to defend Australia. Featured:  Sam Roggeveen, director of the Lowy Institute’s International Security Program

House prices have begun to fall, with Sydney and Melbourne leading the downward trend. So, will they bounce back or could it be, as some forecasts suggest, the start of a new cycle where house prices remain stagnant for decades.  Today, business editor Michael Janda on why this could be the correction young Australians have been waiting for.  Michael was also on Monday’s episode of ABC Business Daily with Carrington Clarke, discussing the latest house price data. Listen here: Why property is flatlining Featured:  Michael Janda, ABC Business Editor

Do you believe that Elon Musk can establish a colony on Mars of a million people or launch data centres into space?  If you do, you might be thinking of investing in SpaceX which will go public on the Nasdaq stock market this month.  Even if you have your doubts, you might just gamble on Musk anyway for fear of missing out. Today, Quinn Slobodian, co-author of ‘Muskism: A Guide for the Perplexed’ on Musk’s $1.8 trillion valuation. Featured:  Quinn Slobodian, Professor of International History at Boston University and co-author of ‘Muskism: A Guide for the Perplexed’

The New South Wales Police Force was so corrupt in the 1990s a royal commission was formed and it was forced to clean up its act. These days it’s the most complained about force in the country and it’s the national leader in legal payouts, costing taxpayers tens of millions of dollars. Today, Four Corners reporter Dylan Welch on his investigation into cases of police abuse and misconduct.  Featured:  Dylan Welch, Four Corners reporter

The US military is striking Iran and Israel has ramped up its attacks in southern Lebanon.  Is there really a chance of a peace deal? And does the Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu even want one as he faces an election within months.  Today, Dov Waxman, professor of Israel studies at UCLA on Netanyahu’s political future.  Featured:  Dov Waxman, Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation Chair of Israel Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles

Australians have had a rough few years when it comes to power bills, with the war in Ukraine helping send global energy prices soaring.  But now, despite ongoing conflict overseas, electricity prices are finally set to fall for homes and businesses.  Today, ABC energy reporter Dan Mercer on the battery boom driving down prices and whether more bill relief is on the horizon. Featured:  Dan Mercer, ABC energy reporter

Peace talks in Qatar had barely begun when the US initiated a new wave of strikes against Iran.  The US says targeting Iranian boats and missile sites was an act of self-defence, but what will it mean for a deal to end the war?  Today, Hussein Ibish from the Arab Gulf States Institute explains what the US President actually needs to finally walk away from a conflict he no longer wants. Featured: Hussein Ibish, senior resident scholar at the Arab Gulf States Institute

Memes featuring an AI-generated Prime Minister Anthony Albanese claim he’s effectively taking a 47 per cent stake in businesses.  But what’s the reality of the government’s budget tax changes?  Today, we speak with a small business owner who’s concerned about the economic realities of doing business in Australia.  We also speak with an economist about the implications of the changes for how Australians build wealth.  Featured:  Sarcha Thurston, Owner of Yogahub  Susan Stone, Credit Union SA Chair of Economics at Adelaide University

The cost of fuel across Australia has come off its highs, despite there being no resolution yet to the war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.  But don’t get comfortable because the real pain from the global oil crunch hasn’t really hit us yet.  Today, Saul Kavonic, energy expert at MST financial, on how we’ve weathered the storm so far and what could happen in the months ahead.  Featured:  Saul Kavonic, energy analyst, MST Financial

It’s almost three months since Donald Trump began the Iran war, but is there any chance that America can achieve anything that looks like victory?  As the US president considers whether to launch new strikes or pursue a compromise deal, what would Iran actually agree to?  Today, Robert Malley, a lead negotiator on the 2015 Iran nuclear deal on why a new deal might look just like Barack Obama’s and how the quagmire can be compared to the Vietnam war.  Featured:  Robert Malley, Special Envoy for Iran in the Biden administration and now a lecturer and Senior Fellow at the Yale Jackson School of Global Affairs

There are questions about the future of Taiwan after Donald Trump declared he’s “not looking to have somebody go independent”. The US president met China’s leader in Beijing and says Xi Jinping asked him whether the US would defend Taiwan.  What do Trump’s comments mean for US-China relations and how likely is a Chinese invasion of the self-governed island? Today, Samir Puri, visiting lecturer in war studies at King’s College London on President Xi Jinping’s warning to Trump and whether the Chinese are ready for war.  Featured:  Samir Puri, visiting lecturer in war studies at King’s College London

Labor wants its budget to be seen as a concrete step towards levelling the playing field between the generations.  But Newspoll suggests it’s the most unpopular federal budget in more than 30 years.  Across the polls, Labor’s support is steady or declining, while One Nation rises above the Coalition.  Will bolder economic policies from Labor and the Coalition stop the collapse of Australia’s two-party system and the rise of minor parties and independents? Today, Michelle Grattan, political correspondent at The Conversation and professorial fellow at the University of Canberra on the reaction to the budget.  Featured:  Michelle Grattan, political correspondent at The Conversation and professorial fellow at the University of Canberra

With so many tech bosses accompanying Donald Trump on his recent trip to China, expectations were high that AI and high tech business deals would be central to the talks.  But in the end, there was no breakthrough on selling US firm Nvidia’s high tech AI chips to China. So where does that leave the race for AI dominance and how are China and the US approaching AI differently? Today, China tech expert Selina Xu on who’s ahead right now and what happens next. Featured:  Selina Xu, China tech researcher, writer and analyst

If you’ve got a family trust, you’re probably doing pretty well. They’ve been used for generations to distribute wealth and reduce tax bills.  Now the government’s moving to make sure the tax office receives more from the earnings, imposing a minimum 30 percent tax on discretionary trusts.  Today, Kristen Sobeck a tax expert at the University of Canberra on the new tax on trusts.  Featured:  Kristen Sobeck, economics lecturer at the University of Canberra

Marco Rubio is hitting his stride, he’s Trump’s National Security Advisor and his Secretary of State, he’s taken over the White House press briefing, sat down with the Pope and is now in China for Trump’s showdown with President Xi. No wonder speculation is growing that he could be the next Republican presidential nominee, instead of Vice President JD Vance. Today, Geoff Kabaservice from the Niskanen Center think tank on the new political battle in the US. Featured:  Geoff Kabaservice, Niskanen Center Vice President for Political Studies

It’s been an ordeal for those who embarked on a cruise across in early April and it’s not over yet.  The ship's passengers are being repatriated across the world after potential exposure to hantavirus, which caused the death of three passengers.  Among those heading home are four Australians who will soon be placed in a quarantine facility in Western Australia.  What is the virus, how does it spread and should we be worried about it?   Today epidemiologist Raina MacIntyre from UNSW on everything you need to know about hantavirus.  Featured:  Raina MacIntyre, epidemiologist and Professor of Global Biosecurity at the University of New South Wales

The Treasurer Jim Chalmers has delivered his 2026 budget, unveiling a new tax cut and some of the most significant tax changes in decades.   Delivered as war impacts the economy, it’s being sold as a budget that addresses the growing inequality between generations, with the treasurer declaring Labor is on the hard road of reform.  But will changes to taxes on property investors and family trusts really level the playing field? The ABC’s chief business correspondent Ian Verrender joins Sam Hawley in the budget lock-up in Sydney.  Featured:  Ian Verrender, ABC Chief Business Correspondent

For decades, Russia’s Victory Day parade has brought tanks and intercontinental ballistic missiles to Red Square to celebrate the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany.  But not this year. Russia’s President Vladimir Putin scaled back the event due to the risk of a Ukrainian long range attack on Moscow.  At the same time, media reports citing a European intelligence service suggest security is increasing around Putin and there’s even a risk of a coup.  Today, Matthew Sussex, Russia expert at the Australian National University on Putin’s paranoia and whether Ukraine has cards to play in the conflict.  Featured:  Matthew Sussex, associate professor at the Centre for European Studies at the Australian National University

Why is it up to the Reserve Bank to control inflation with interest rates?  Imagine if there were other tools that spread the pain to more people, not just those repaying a home loan.  Perhaps the government could force workers to put more money into their superannuation accounts or move the GST up and down depending on the inflation rate.  Today, independent economist Chris Richardson assesses the options.  Featured:  Chris Richardson, independent economist

It’s a new sort of warfare and it’s not taking place on the battlefield. Backers of Iran are creating so-called ‘slopaganda’ using AI generated videos to mock the United States and President Donald Trump.  But while Iranian diplomats are sharing the viral videos, are they actually changing anyone’s mind?  Today, Brett Schafer from the Institute for Strategic Dialogue on how Iran is using meme warfare to soften the regime’s image.  Featured:  Brett Schafer, senior director at the Institute for Strategic Dialogue

Anthony Albanese is about to break a major election promise.  Next week’s budget will reveal just how dramatic the government’s changes to generous tax breaks for property investors will be.  The expected shake up to negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount follows the prime minister’s promises during the last election campaign to leave the arrangements as they were. Have concerns around generational inequality in housing made breaking an election promise feasible? Today, host of ABC Radio’s AM program, Melissa Clarke, on the prime minister’s gamble.  Featured:  Melissa Clarke, political correspondent and host of ‘AM’

The US President Donald Trump has launched what he’s calling ‘Project Freedom’, promising to rescue commercial ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz. Already Iran has resumed firing on the UAE and the US says it’s destroyed Iranian military boats in the Strait. Today, Jennifer Parker, a former Royal Australian Navy warfare officer, on the new phase of the Iran war.  Featured:  Jennifer Parker, Adjunct Professor at the Defence and Security Institute at The University of Western Australia

The war in Iran is creating economic uncertainty around the world, with higher inflation putting pressure on central banks, including the RBA, to hike interest rates. So, why are stocks still surging on Wall Street, driving the value of the world’s biggest sharemarkets to record highs?  Today the ABC’s finance expert Alan Kohler on why investors remain so optimistic and it’s got a lot to do with AI.   Featured:  Alan Kohler, ABC finance expert

The nation was shocked when 95-year-old Clare Nowland died after being tasered by a NSW police officer at an aged care facility in 2023.  While police forces defend their policies and training, there are concerns that officers draw the weapon too quickly, not just when danger is imminent.  There’s also a controversial medical diagnosis called “excited delirium” that’s been used to explain why it’s not the device that’s causing deaths.  Are the devices really as safe as their maker insists? Today, reporter Grace Tobin on her Four Corners investigation into the multi-billion-dollar Taser industry.  Featured:  Grace Tobin, ABC investigative reporter