ABC News Daily

Parts of Australia have been experiencing well above average temperatures for this time of year, with alerts for bushfires already being issued.  At the same time, the Bureau of Meteorology has declared the El Nino weather pattern is underway, meaning a hotter and drier summer is likely. Today, the founder of campaign group Sweltering Cities, Emma Bacon, on who the heat will hit the hardest and how best to prepare.  Featured:  Emma Bacon, founder of Sweltering Cities

Can you imagine if the tax office went into your bank account and retrieved money it says you owe, without your permission?  Well, it can do that and it does.   It’s a practice that distressed ATO employee Richard Boyle so much that he tried to help some taxpayers get around it.  He also became a whistleblower and is now facing charges that could land him in jail for up to 46 years.  Today, investigative journalist Adele Ferguson on his case and how whistleblower laws in Australia are failing all of us. Featured:  Adele Ferguson, ABC investigative reporter

Australia has a lucrative greyhound racing industry that’s enjoyed by some and loathed by others. Now it’s been revealed there’s a largely unknown but sophisticated trade in dogs with China, where their welfare can’t be assured.  Today, investigative journalist Paul Farrell on the big money changing hands and the loopholes in Australian laws allowing it to happen.  Featured:  Paul Farrell, ABC investigative reporter

New York City is struggling to house more than one hundred thousand migrants who’ve arrived in the past year. Authorities have even set up tent cities because shelters for the homeless have been overwhelmed.  Today, New York City reporter for the Wall Street Journal, Erin Ailworth, on where these people are coming from and the political storm the issue has unleashed.  Featured:  Erin Ailworth, New York City reporter for the Wall Street Journal

They dined on crab dumplings, fish and beef and washed it down with Russian wine.  Vladimir Putin and the North Korean Leader Kim Jong Un toasted Russia’s “sacred struggle” with the West.  So what deal did the leaders really strike during a rare meeting in Russia? Today, defence strategist Samir Puri on the new era in the relationship between the two nations.  Featured:  Dr Samir Puri, visiting lecturer in war studies at King’s College London and author of “Russia’s Road to War with Ukraine”.

As we head towards summer, it looks like the lights will go out for some of us.  The energy market operator predicts blackouts in some parts of the country because governments have failed to replace ageing coal plants with renewable power fast enough.  Today, energy expert at the Grattan Institute Alison Reeve on why we have to rely on coal power for longer than expected.  Featured:  Alison Reeve, Climate Change and Energy Deputy Program Director at Grattan Institute

It looks like the Reserve Bank has achieved what it set out to do, force us to spend less and slow the economy by hiking up interest rates. But the economy is now also in a per capita recession. So what is that and should we worry about it?   Today, business and economics reporter Gareth Hutchens tells us what it means for our hip pockets and jobs. Featured:  Gareth Hutchens, ABC business and economics reporter

After three years of above average national rainfall, the switch has been flicked. We’re heading for a hotter and drier spring than average, which isn’t good news for summer. But does that mean we’ll be battling bushfires once again?  Today, a former Fire and Rescue Commissioner and founder of Emergency Leaders for Climate Action Greg Mullins on how to prepare for what’s ahead.  Featured:  Greg Mullins, former commissioner of Fire and Rescue NSW and founder of Emergency Leaders for Climate Action

In just under five weeks’ time we will be asked to vote yes or no in a referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament.  As it draws nearer, how are First Nations communities in some of the most remote parts of the country feeling about the proposed constitutional change?  Today, Voice Correspondent Dan Bourchier on his Four Corners’ investigation.  Featured:  Dan Bourchier, ABC Voice Correspondent

When you’re watching sport on a weekend, whether at a professional, amateur or even school level, you’ll always hear the crowd gasp if a player takes a blow to the head.  We know it’s not good for the brain, especially a child’s, but do we really understand the extent of the damage it can cause?  This week a Senate committee recommended a national strategy to reduce concussion in sport. Today, we speak to former AFL player Shaun Smith who has probable CTE, a brain disorder caused by repeated head knocks, and neuroscientist Dr Fatima Nasrallah about how we could make sport much safer.  Featured:  Shaun Smith, former AFL player Dr Fatima Nasrallah, neuroscientist at the Queensland Brain Institute at the University of Queensland.

We all love getting a fresh, hot meal, delivered quickly and cheaply to our front door, and the rise of the gig economy has made that so much easier.  But the federal government is starting to grapple with what happens when armies of delivery riders, rushing to complete jobs quickly, are unleashed on our roads and footpaths.  Today, reporter Lydia Feng on the personal stories of the workers who’ve died and the true cost of our convenience.  Featured:  Lydia Feng, ABC reporter

He took over the flying kangaroo back in 2008, now Alan Joyce has departed Qantas earlier than expected after a string of damaging controversies.  But he recently delivered a big profit for shareholders and he walks away with millions of dollars in his own pocket.  Today, senior business correspondent Peter Ryan on the Irishman’s track record, how he lost the public’s trust and whether the iconic Australian brand can be repaired.  Featured:  Peter Ryan, ABC senior business correspondent

As the Reserve Bank prepares to meet again on interest rates, it’s worth considering the impact of the 12 rate rises we have already had. We know thousands of borrowers are now battling to pay off their loans, but fears of widespread mortgage defaults have not yet eventuated.  Today, business reporter Daniel Ziffer on inflation, mortgage stress and when things might start to get a bit easier.  Featured:  Daniel Ziffer, ABC business reporter

The United States has banned exports of advanced computer chips to China and also prohibited American investment in sensitive Chinese technology.  It’s a big shift in policy aimed at interrupting Beijing’s technological and military advancement.  Today, Dr Benjamin Herscovitch from the ANU’s School of Regulation and Global Governance on why the decision could reverberate for decades and whether Australia will follow suit.  Featured:  Benjamin Herscovitch, research fellow at the ANU's School of Regulation and Global Governance

An infamous kiss at the Women’s World Cup in Sydney has sparked a scandal and a conversation about sexism that’s reverberating from Spain across the globe.  Still the head of the Spanish Football Federation Luis Rubiales has been defiant, repeatedly declaring “I will not resign” after kissing footballer Jenni Hermoso on the lips after the team’s big win.  Today, the ABC’s Annabel Crabb unpacks that moment, the fallout and why the actions of one “doofus guy” could bring about positive change for women’s football.  Featured:  Annabel Crabb, ABC writer and presenter

We finally have a date for a referendum with the prime minister arguing there is no downside to voting yes. But the No campaign has been gaining traction. It says a Voice to Parliament will divide Australia by race.  Today, Fran Kelly and Carly Williams from the Voice Referendum Explained podcast, on what we can expect in the six weeks before we vote.  Featured:  Fran Kelly and Carly Williams, presenters of The Voice Referendum Explained podcast

It’s been dubbed the ‘Spirit of Australia’ but is Qantas really serving the interests of the travelling public?   And why won’t the government allow airlines like Qatar Airways to create more competition by flying here more often?  Today, business reporter Nassim Khadem on whether Qantas is too important to fail and if it deserves special treatment to keep it profitable.  Featured:  Nassim Khadem, ABC business reporter

How would you like to live in an apartment barely big enough to fit a double bed or a complex where you share a bathroom with six other units? As residents of Australia’s big cities grapple with a rental crisis, it’s time to look at life for renters in Tokyo, New York and London.  Today, reporter Angelique Lu on whether conditions here are really any better. Featured:  Angelique Lu, ABC reporter

You may not have noticed unless you’ve been travelling overseas, but the Australian dollar is on the slide. There’s every chance it could fall below rates seen during the pandemic and the Global Financial Crisis.   Today, the ABC’s business editor Ian Verrender on how China’s economic woes are partly to blame and what it means for our economy.   Featured:  Ian Verrender, ABC business editor

While everyone has their eyes on the war in Ukraine, another war is threatening to break out in West Africa. There's been a seemingly unstoppable wave of coups washing along the edge of the Sahara, gaining strength each time. After the recent military coup in Niger, locals were seen chanting "down with France" and "long live Putin". What are France and Russia doing in West Africa? And could they end up in a proxy war? Subscribe to If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app. Find more If You're Listening on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_N9w5e9NrE

He wouldn’t be the first enemy of Vladimir Putin to end up dead, so no wonder suspicion falls on the Russian leader for the apparent demise of Yevgeny Prigozhin, the man who staged a short-led mutiny in Russia back in June.  Russia says the Wagner group leader was on a plane that crashed north of Moscow, leaving no survivors. Today, Rajan Menon from the Washington-based think tank Defense Priorities on what it means for Putin’s war and his power.   Featured:  Rajan Menon, Grand Strategy Program director at Defense Priorities

Australia’s dominant supermarkets Coles and Woolworths have returned bumper profits of $1.1 billion and $1.62 billion respectively for the full financial year. So, are shoppers getting a fair deal during a cost of living crisis? Today, Prashan Karunaratne from Macquarie Business School on the market power of the big players and why it might be worth avoiding them altogether. Featured: Prashan Karunaratne, Bachelor of Commerce course director at Macquarie University

It used to be known as wagging - skipping a day of school here and there. But now Australia is facing a much deeper problem with thousands of students refusing to go at all.  It was first blamed on the pandemic, but now it’s clear the problem runs far deeper.  Today, the ABC’s national education and parenting reporter Conor Duffy on school refusal and what can be done to stop it.    Featured:  Conor Duffy, ABC national education and parenting reporter

The federal government has a new plan to help solve the rental crisis.  It’s going to give the states and territories $15 thousand every time a new home is built, targeting an additional 1.2 million homes by 2029.  Today, urban planner and policy analyst from Sydney University, Nicole Gurran, on whether that’s really going to help and what more could be done.  Featured:  Nicole Gurran, professor of urban and regional planning at the University of Sydney

Did you know the AFL is the only major sporting code in the world where not a single elite male player has ever come out publicly as being gay?  Today, Four Corners reporter Louise Milligan on her investigation into the league, its management and its fans.  Featured:  Louise Milligan, Four Corners reporter

Microchips are in your car, your microwave — there might even be one in your kettle. They run everything. And the best microchips are made by TSMC, the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. TSMC chips have put Western tech companies and militaries streets ahead of China, and China is not happy about it. TSMC is so important, that the world could go to war over it. Subscribe to If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app.

If there was an Australian politician facing 91 criminal charges would you consider voting for them at an election?   Probably not, but in America there are plenty of people who would.  Donald Trump was indicted for a fourth time this week but still he’s the Republicans’ pick to run at next year’s US election. Today, political scientist at the University of Chicago, Susan Stokes, on Donald Trump’s supporters and why they won’t give him up.    Featured:  Susan Stokes, political scientist at the University of Chicago

Almost a fortnight after three people died from suspected mushroom poisoning in Victoria, details about the fatal lunch are still emerging.  The woman who cooked what’s believed to be the killer meal has now produced a statement for police which adds even more intrigue to the story.  Today, investigative reporter Dan Oakes who exclusively obtained the statement, on what we know now and the lingering questions.  Featured:  Dan Oakes, ABC investigative reporter

The Matildas will take on England tonight in a World Cup semi-final. If they win and go on to take out the entire tournament do we really deserve a public holiday? Today, ABC Grandstand’s Quentin Hull on when politics and sport mix and why we’ve all jumped on the Matildas bandwagon.  Featured:  Quentin Hull, ABC Grandstand commentator

You may have noticed your home insurance bill is a lot higher than usual.  In the past year there’s been a huge jump in premiums, with most of us paying almost 30 per cent more.  Those in flood prone areas are seeing even bigger rises.  Today, what’s behind the premium price spikes and what can be done to bring them down.  Featured:  Sharanjit Paddam, Principal of Climate Risk at Finity Consulting

Inflation might be starting to come down but when will we see a noticeable difference in how much we’re paying for everything?  And when will our wages actually catch up with the cost of living?  Today, business reporter Michael Janda on why we haven’t had a real pay rise for 14 years.  Featured:  Michael Janda, ABC senior digital business reporter

Inflation in Argentina is at 100 per cent. The government is printing money fast and locals are spending in US dollars because the peso is so unreliable. The economy is like a rollercoaster. It might be tempting to think, "they're different over there", but here's the thing: they're kind of not. Argentina — one of the wealthiest countries in the world — was once uncomfortably similar to Australia. Until it totally lost control of its own economy. Subscribe to If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app.

The Commonwealth Bank reported a whopping $10.2bn profit this week, with the CEO saying strong banks are good for Australia.  But how is it making such huge money as its home loan customers are squeezed by rising interest rates?  Today, economist Angela Jackson on the fairness of big bank profits and whether the banks should be hit with a super profits tax.    Featured:  Angela Jackson, lead economist at Impact Economics and Policy

The Voice to Parliament is on track to be defeated at a referendum, according to a string of opinion polls.  How is the No campaign and the federal opposition managing to successfully cut through to voters?  Today, Patricia Karvelas on the tricky position the government has found itself in and why it won’t back out of a vote now.  Featured:  Patricia Karvelas, host of Radio National Breakfast and The Party Room podcast

The court case involving Brittany Higgins and Bruce Lehrmann was one of the most watched in history. Now an inquiry has found a key legal figure in the proceedings was “grossly unethical” and misled the trial judge.  Today, reporter Patrick Bell on how it came to this and what it means for our justice system.  Featured:  Patrick Bell, ABC reporter

The world’s richest person Elon Musk wants to reach into your everyday life with an app that would do everything from payments, to news, chat and streaming video.  To do that he’s shaking up Twitter which he bought for more than $60 billion last year. It’s now called X, but can you trust it?  Today, senior writer at The Verge Elizabeth Lopatto on why Elon Musk is risking so much to chase his dream.  Featured:  Elizabeth Lopatto, senior writer at The Verge

When the Matildas took on Canada and won in the Women’s World Cup more than two million Australians were watching. Expect those numbers to grow when they come up against Denmark.  Today, The Ticket podcast host Tracey Holmes on tonight’s game and the remarkable growth in the popularity of women’s football. Featured:  Tracey Holmes, ABC Sport senior reporter and host of The Ticket podcast

A bromance is a powerful thing. Lennon and McCartney. Holmes and Watson. Gilbert and Sullivan. Han and Chewy. But occasionally a bromance can nearly get you killed. A month ago the entire world watched transfixed as a former chef named Yevgeny Prigozhin marched with his private army on Moscow. At the core of this mutiny is a bromance between Prigozhin and a guy you've probably never heard of — General Sergei Surovikin. Prigozhin assumed his friend Surovikin would back him up, but he flaked, and now both men are missing. So how did Prigozhin's bromance with Surovikin nearly bring down the Russian Government? And what's the punishment for even thinking about trying to roll Vladimir Putin? Subscribe to If You're Listening on the ABC Listen app

We know fast fashion is incredibly damaging for the environment, but have you ever thought about what it’s doing to your health?  Cheap fashion is full of microplastics and you’re almost certainly breathing them in.  Today, War on Waste host Craig Reucassel on his shock and rather uncomfortable discovery.  Featured:  Craig Reucassel, War on Waste host

When he lost the 2020 US election, Donald Trump couldn’t accept it. Now he’s been charged with conspiring to try and overturn the result.  It’s the third time the former president has been indicted this year, but still he’s pushing ahead with his campaign to return to the White House.  Today, legal analyst Jill Wine-Banks on Donald Trump’s legal woes and why they aren't hurting his campaign for president. Featured:  Jill Wine-Banks, Watergate prosecutor and legal analyst

The Reserve Bank may have decided to hold rates for a second consecutive month but with 12 hikes in just over a year it’s still really tough out there.  For those wanting to buy a home despite the rate rises, competition in the market is intense.  So who’s buying the properties?  Today, business reporter Nassim Khadem on the groups ensuring house prices remain high.  Featured:  Nassim Khadem, ABC business reporter

The world has had the hottest July on record, leading the UN chief to warn that the era of ‘global boiling’ is here.  While parts of Australia experienced more mild winter temperatures, searing heat waves are making life difficult across vast swathes of the northern hemisphere.  Today, a climate scientist on what it means for our summer and whether the extreme conditions can be stopped.  Featured:  Sarah Perkins-Kirkpatrick, Associate professor and climate extremes researcher at UNSW Canberra

When China lifted its strict Covid restrictions it was expected the economic powerhouse would surge ahead once again.  Instead the Chinese economy is now in serious trouble.  Today, ABC business editor Ian Verrender on what’s gone so wrong and what Beijing’s woes mean for us.  Featured:  Ian Verrender, ABC business editor

Thousands more Australians will head to the movies in the coming days to lay their eyes on Barbie.  But what does the frenzy over the film say about our culture, consumerism and feminism?  Today, TV and film critic Wenlei Ma on why a movie about a plastic doll has so many of us talking. Featured:  Wenlei Ma, film and TV critic

The Matildas will take to the field again tonight in the FIFA Women’s World Cup where they’ll be hoping for their second win. The team has won legions of fans and is boosting the profile of the women’s competition across Australia, but it hasn’t come easily.   Today, ABC Sport football writer Samantha Lewis on how the Matildas have helped pave the way for diversity and inclusion in a sport tightly controlled by its governing body.  Featured:  Samantha Lewis, ABC Sport football writer

China’s been caught spying on the largest ever joint Australia-US military exercises.  Australia and its allies expected the intrusion and this week released images of a Chinese surveillance ship in the Coral Sea.  Today, Stephen Dziedzic on what it means at a time when we’re trying to patch up our relationship with Beijing and repair trade.  Featured:  Stephen Dziedzic, ABC foreign affairs reporter

Other countries are turning to sugar taxes to address the rise in obesity, increasing the price of sugary drinks so consumers seek out cheaper and healthier alternatives.  So why don’t we have a sugar tax here even though the medical profession is pleading for it?  Today, investigative reporter Linton Besser on the powerful food and beverage industry and how it lobbies politicians to block change.  Featured:  Linton Besser, ABC investigative reporter

Billions of our taxpayers dollars are going to the big four accounting firms every year, but should we really be outsourcing what can in some cases be top secret work to private firms like Deloitte and PwC? Today, investigative journalist and business columnist, Adele Ferguson on how the firms have infiltrated government departments.  Featured:  Adele Ferguson, ABC investigative journalist

With two new Hollywood blockbusters just out, you might be thinking of heading to the movies. Make the most of it because if US-based actors and writers stay on strike much longer the pipeline of film and television production will dry up.  Today, Meg James, senior entertainment writer at the LA Times on the worldwide impact of the strikes and why Artificial Intelligence is a big reason why Hollywood stars have downed tools.  Featured:  Meg James, Los Angeles Times senior entertainment writer

Almost 400-thousand Australians have dementia, so chances are you either have it or know someone who does.  This week’s news that an experimental drug has been found to slow the advance of Alzheimer’s disease has raised hopes that sufferers could enjoy more good months.  Today, an expert in the field on how the drug works and how soon patients here might have access to it.  Featured:  Associate Professor Yen Ying Lim, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, Monash University

We love watching the Commonwealth Games, especially when we’re winning gold, but Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews thinks they’re too expensive.  Blaming cost blow-outs, he’s cancelling the 2026 games in Victoria, putting the future of the games at risk. Today, national sport reporter David Mark on the anger the decision sparked and what it means for our sporting reputation.  Featured:  David Mark, ABC National Sport Reporter

Opening your power bill can come as real a shock and it’s only going to get worse with prices rising by up to a quarter this month.   But if you’re lucky enough to have solar panels on your roof you’re having a much better time of it. The problem is there’s a growing divide between those who have them and those who don’t.  Today, energy reporter Dan Mercer on the Australians being left behind by the energy transition and the deep discontent the gap is likely to fuel. Featured: Dan Mercer, ABC energy reporter

As construction firms across the country collapse, thousands of people are losing their life savings, their businesses and homes.  The cascading effects of surging costs, worker shortages and rising interest rates include home dreams turning to nightmares and subcontractors often left hundreds of thousands of dollars out of pocket.  Today, Four Corners reporter Stephen Long on his investigation into the ailing sector and what could be done to fix it.  Featured:  Stephen Long, Four Corners reporter

A new way of teaching in the classroom is being adopted in some schools, with a focus on how young brains absorb knowledge.  But is this the revolution in teaching that its proponents suggest?  Others argue better pay and less admin will do more to improve the standard of teaching. Today, the ABC’s Education and Parenting reporter Conor Duffy on how best to teach the teachers.  Featured: Conor Duffy, ABC Education and Parenting reporter

Access to abortion in Australia is about to become a little easier, with restrictions on doctors and pharmacists around medication for terminations being eased.  The Federal government says it’s a crucial change, as it will help women in regional and remote areas get an abortion and at a lower cost. Today, reporter Claudia Long on the slow evolution of abortion services in Australia.  Featured:  Claudia Long, ABC political reporter

Artificial intelligence is disrupting and transforming our working lives.  While it holds the promise of greater productivity, it could also threaten a wide range of jobs and make income inequality even worse.  Today, how research into artificial intelligence tech may be targeting the wrong problems and missing chances to help humanity.  Featured:  Prof Bhaskar Chakravorti, Dean of Global Business, Tufts University

The waiting lists for care for transgender children in Australia are growing and public debate over medical intervention is becoming increasingly toxic.  Today, the ABC’s Patricia Karvelas on the battle over the bodies of trans kids and whether Australia’s approach is the right one.  Featured:  Patricia Karvelas, ABC presenter

The final report of the Royal Commission into the Robodebt scheme finds it was crude and cruel, neither fair nor legal, and it recommends both civil action and criminal prosecutions. Today, legal expert Dr Darren O’Donovan, who’s fought for victims for years, on their struggle for justice. Featured:  Dr Darren O’Donovan, La Trobe University Law School

We now have a national anti-corruption watchdog, but will it mean we’ll be able to trust politicians more than we currently do? And who will it go after first? Today, AJ Brown from Transparency International Australia on how the body will work and whether there are enough protections in place for those who expose wrongdoing.

It’s official - the world is back in an El Niño event. You won’t notice it just yet, but historically it means we’re heading for a very hot and dry period.  Today, a climate scientist steps us through why it’s happening and what we can expect.

The Reserve Bank board may have kept rates on hold for now, but with 12 increases in just over a year it’s still a hard time for borrowers up and down the country.  So what effect is that having on the housing market and house prices? Today, business reporter Michael Janda on why the property market never seems to take a hit.

The Yes campaign for the Voice to Parliament ramped up on the weekend with rallies around the country, for now though the polls suggest more Australians would vote no when we head to a referendum. But what do First Nations people in the remote areas of the country think?  Today investigative journalist Jane Bardon takes us there and reveals many residents have never even heard of the Voice.

We've been speaking a lot about interest rates this year, and no wonder: there have been 12 painful rate rises in 13 months, with the RBA to meet again this week.  But why is it the only tool used to bring inflation under control?  Today, the ABC TV’s finance guy, Alan Kohler, on how ending price gouging could be a simple alternative.  Featured:  Alan Kohler, ABC TV news finance presenter

It's a finding that will further damage voters' trust in politics, and in politicians: while the former, once highly popular, New South Wales Premier, Gladys Berejiklian, denied it to the end, the state's corruption watchdog has found she engaged in 'serious corrupt conduct', although she won't face charges.  So what did the ICAC find?  Today, ABC investigative reporter, Amy Greenbank, on the phone taps that brought the former leader down.  Featured:  Amy Greenbank, ABC investigative reporter, Sydney

It was a brief act of mutiny, lasting just 36 hours.  But what does the armed rebellion in Russia across the weekend mean for the future of the Russian state, and its leader Vladimir Putin?  Today, the co-host of the Kremlin File podcast, Olga Lautman, on what the biggest challenge to Putin’s leadership in decades means, and what might come next.  Featured:  Olga Lautman, Senior Researcher, Centre for European Policy Analysis and co-host, Kremlin File podcast

After a huge rise in our power bills last year, millions of households are about to see another big hike from this weekend.  That’s despite the government extending its price cap on gas and a big push towards renewables.  Today, the ABC’s energy reporter, Dan Mercer, on what’s happening in the market and how we can protect ourselves from spiralling costs. Featured:  Dan Mercer, energy reporter, ABC national regional and rural team

The Australian Tax Office is meant to be one of the most secure and forensic agencies in the country - we trust it to get things right.  But its vulnerabilities were exposed, after a criminal syndicate managed to steal more than $100 million of taxpayers' money.  Today, Four Corners reporter, Paul Farrell, takes us inside the biggest tax fraud in our history, and explains how it was exposed.  Featured:  Paul Farrell, investigative reporter, Four Corners, ABC TV and ABC iview

Over the weekend, the Russian president came closer than he's ever been to losing his grip on power, as the Wagner mercenary group led by Yevgeny Prigozhin attempted to overthrow his regime, before backing down. It's been a confusing, chaotic few days.  Today, a Russian security expert, Associate Professor Matthew Sussex from the Australian National University, on what it means for Vladimir Putin's future, and his brutal war in Ukraine. Featured:  Dr Matthew Sussex, Associate Professor, Fellow, Strategic and Defence Studies Centre, Australian National University, Canberra

It's a story that's captivated the world: five men, who went deep into the Atlantic Ocean to try to get a glimpse of the wreckage of the Titanic, now presumed dead. So what do we know about the journey of the Titan submersible, in one of the most hostile environments on Earth?   Today, an oceanographer on the dangers and complexities of the mission.  Featured:  Arthur Trembanis, oceanographer at the University of Delaware

The Greens have been accused of forming an ‘axis of evil’ in the Parliament, by joining with the Coalition to block the government’s key housing bill.  But are they really the enemy for demanding a rent freeze to try to stop landlords charging tenants whatever they like?  Today, Insiders host, David Speers, on the housing deadlock, and why the government refuses to cap rents.  Featured:  David Speers, host, Insiders, ABC TV and iview

For First Nations Independent Senator Lidia Thorpe, the passing of the Voice bill through the Parliament this week was akin to 'Assimilation Day'.  Meanwhile, the Indigenous Australians Minister Linda Burney described it as a momentous, unifying moment for the nation. So, with such divided views on the referendum within the Parliament, what sort of debate can we expect as everyone prepares to head to the ballot box? Today, the ABC's National Indigenous Correspondent, Carly Williams, on how to make sense of it all.  Featured:  Carly Williams, ABC National Indigenous Correspondent

With Russia at war with Ukraine, keeping our secrets safe from Moscow is vital.  But history tells us Australia hasn't been very good at spying on spies and knowing when our agencies have been infiltrated.  Today, investigative reporters Sally Neighbour and Margot O'Neill on an ASIO mole who sold our intelligence to the Russians, and why our spy agency kept it secret for so long.  Featured:  Sally Neighbour, investigative reporter, ABC Four Corners and ABC iview  Margot O’Neill, investigative reporter, ABC Four Corners and ABC iview

You may have enjoyed a spot of shopping on the weekend, but if you're still heading out to spend up big, you're among a diminishing crowd.  We now know there's been a huge slump in consumer spending, as more and more of us find it harder to make ends meet with soaring rents and rising interest rates.  So, with New Zealand already in a technical recession, is there a downturn coming here too?  Today, the ABC’s business editor, Ian Verrender, on where our economy's heading, midway through the year.  Featured:  Ian Verrender, ABC business editor

Once again, the treatment of women in politics has come into question, after the independent Senator Lidia Thorpe used parliamentary privilege to allege she'd been sexually assaulted in a stairwell at Parliament House.  It came a day after she had stood in the Senate to accuse the Victorian Senator, David Van, of sexual assault, an accusation he denies and which she later withdrew.  Senator Van has now been asked to leave the Liberal Party room.  Today, ABC political reporter, Dana Morse, on Lidia Thorpe's allegations, and the culture at Parliament House.  Featured:  Dana Morse, ABC political reporter, Parliament House, Canberra

In the US, Donald Trump is marking his 77th birthday.  But we can only imagine what sort of celebration it might be, a day after he was arraigned in a federal court in Miami.  The former president is pleading not guilty to dozens of charges relating to the mishandling of classified material, some of which he kept in a bathroom at his Florida home.  Today, legal analyst Jill Wine-Banks, who was one of the prosecutors during the Watergate scandal, on the case against Mr Trump, and whether a Florida jury would really convict him.  Featured:  Jill Wine-Banks, legal analyst and former Watergate prosecutor

The long-awaited counteroffensive in Ukraine has begun.  In what could be a pivotal moment in the almost 16-month-old war, Ukrainian forces are battling to retake cities occupied by Russia.  Today, a former US State Department security advisor on what the frontline looks like, and what the renewed fighting could mean for the future of the war.  Featured:  Max Bergmann, Director, Europe, Russia, Eurasia program, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Washington DC

We're hearing a lot about artificial intelligence - or AI - recently, and it's really a mixed bag.  It's technology some experts say can save lives, while others are warning it could become so powerful it will actually destroy humanity.  So what should we make of it?  Today, AI expert and chief scientist at the University of New South Wales AI Institute, Professor Toby Walsh, on why we should be alert, not alarmed.  Featured:  Professor Toby Walsh, Chief Scientist, UNSW AI Institute, University of New South Wales, Sydney

When you head to your weekend soccer or cricket match to cheer on the school team or local club, it's fun and usually not too serious.  But what you probably don't know is there are a lot more people than you realise taking an interest in what’s going on on the pitch.  Today, ABC investigative reporter, Pat McGrath, on his Four Corners report into the gambling giants infiltrating community sport. Featured:  Pat McGrath, investigative reporter, Four Corners, ABC TV and iview  Editor's note: In a statement to the ABC, the company Sportradar says it does not supply live feeds of community cricket matches to bookmakers.

Last week, one of Australia's most decorated soldiers, Ben Roberts-Smith, was found to be a war criminal and murderer, after losing a civil defamation case against three newspapers.  The shock ruling in the Federal Court has now reopened debate over the behaviour of Australian special forces deployed during the war in Afghanistan.  Today, investigative reporter Chris Masters, who along with Nick McKenzie exposed Ben Roberts-Smith, on the continuing fallout of the case, and the failings of the military's chain of command.  Featured:  Chris Masters, investigative reporter, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald

This week, Bruce Lehrmann gave his first TV interview, after the trial over the alleged rape of former political staffer Brittany Higgins was abandoned last year. In it, Mr Lehrmann, who's never been found guilty of any wrongdoing, maintained his innocence, saying the alleged assault at Parliament House in Canberra simply didn't happen. It came as an inquiry into the justice system's handling of the case heard its final evidence. Today, we speak to ABC court reporter, Elizabeth Byrne, who's covered the story from the start.  Featured:  Elizabeth Byrne, ABC court reporter, Canberra

With the Reserve Bank hitting borrowers with yet another interest rate rise, households will be feeling even greater financial strain.  The cash rate is now 4.1%, and there's concern that last week's decision to increase the minimum wage could fuel inflation further, pushing interest rates higher still.  Today, ABC business and economics reporter, Gareth Hutchens, on whether or not the wage increases signal there's more pain to come.   Featured:  Gareth Hutchens, ABC business and economics reporter

She was once dubbed 'Australia's worst serial killer', after the deaths of her four children.  But now, Kathleen Folbigg is a free woman, after spending two decades in jail.  In a miscarriage of justice case reminiscent of the wrongful conviction of Lindy Chamberlain, the NSW Attorney-General has pardoned the 55-year-old after new scientific evidence emerged.  Today, ABC Background Briefing reporter Rachael Brown on Kathleen Folbigg's freedom and what it says about the judicial system.  Featured:  Rachael Brown, reporter, Background Briefing, ABC Radio National and ABC listen app

It's financially pretty tough right now.  But who’s really hurting the most?  While the Reserve Bank Governor, Philip Lowe, is suggesting younger Australians could find a housemate or live with their parents, many older Australians are holidaying, dining out and hitting the shops.   Today, ABC business reporter, Stephanie Chalmers, on the growing generational divide.  Featured:  Stephanie Chalmers, ABC business reporter

Ben Roberts-Smith was a war hero: Australia's most decorated soldier, receiving a Victoria Cross.  Now, a court has found in a civil defamation case that newspaper reports that he's a war criminal and murderer are true.  The former SAS soldier had taken defamation action against three newspapers, The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and the Canberra Times, after they stated he was involved in the unlawful killing and assault of unarmed prisoners in Afghanistan.  Today, defamation expert Associate Professor Jason Bosland on the federal court's ruling, and its wider implications.  Featured:  Associate Professor Jason Bosland, Director, Centre for Media and Communications Law, Melbourne Law School

The federal government pays private consulting firms hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars every year.  But can we really trust they're acting in our best interests and, if not, why are we outsourcing such a large amount of public sector work to them?  Today, the host of Radio National's The Money, Richard Aedy, on the expanding PwC scandal, and whether it will change who the government does business with.  Featured:  Richard Aedy, host, The Money, ABC Radio National and ABC listen app

In recent years, the relationship between China and the West has soured, costing billions of dollars in lost trade.  But that rift has had an unexpected upside for Australia, with surging demand for some of our raw materials, like lithium.  Today, the ABC's business editor, Ian Verrender, on the end of the iron ore era, and why Australia's mining luck is set to continue.  Featured:  Ian Verrender, ABC business editor

When you're halfway through building a new home - or renovating an old one - and the builder goes bust, it's devastating for everyone involved.  Now, more and more people are finding themselves in exactly that position, with building company insolvencies in Australia at the highest level in almost a decade.  So what’s going on?  Today, ABC business reporter, Michael Janda, on what the crisis in the industry says about the wider economy, and where we’re heading next.  Featured:  Michael Janda, ABC business reporter

After the Royal Commission into the Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, the stage was set for hundreds of survivors to receive financial compensation.  But Four Corners has found wealthy organisations, from the Scouts to Catholic dioceses, are now using extraordinary legal tactics to fight compensation claims from victims - even in cases where the offender has been found guilty.  Today, reporter Louise Milligan on her investigation.  Featured:  Louise Milligan, reporter, Four Corners, ABC TV and ABC iview

When one of the nation's most prominent Indigenous journalists, Stan Grant, decided to step away from the ABC this week, it sparked a debate over race, racism and the Australian media.  The Wiradjuri journalist said a lack of support from the ABC, after weeks of racial abuse against him, led to his decision, which came at the same time MPs began debating the Voice to Parliament bill.  Today, the ABC's referendum correspondent, Dan Bourchier, on Stan Grant's announcement, and how it coincides with an increase in online hate as the nation prepares for the referendum. Featured:  Dan Bourchier, ABC referendum correspondent

When he touched down in Sydney this week, India's leader received a rock star welcome.  A few weeks back, Narendra Modi became the leader of the most populous nation in the world, after India surpassed China for the title.  Now, he wants to transform India's economy into a global superpower to rival Beijing.  Today, a fellow at the Australia India Institute, Dr Pradeep Taneja, on the two faces of Prime Minister Modi, and why - despite his chequered human rights record - nations like Australia can't resist him.  Featured:  Dr Pradeep Taneja, senior lecturer, University of Melbourne and academic fellow, Australia India Institute

You probably know a bit about hydrogen from your science lessons at school. But you're about to hear a lot more about it, as Australia embarks on a massive push to become the world's hydrogen superpower.  The hope is the element will soon be fuelling everything from cars to passenger jets, as the world races to switch off fossil fuels.  Today, ABC business reporter Rachel Pupazzoni on how Australia became a leader in the field and why it could lead to our next investment boom.  Featured:  Rachel Pupazzoni, ABC business reporter

In Australia, egg freezing has become big business, as clinics target women worried about their fertility.  But has something gone awry, when Australians in their early 20s are deciding to undergo the expensive, invasive procedure?  Today, ABC 7.30 reporter Rhiannon Shine on the risks involved, and whether it's really worth it.  Featured:  Rhiannon Shine, reporter, 7.30, ABC TV and ABC iview

Australia is in the middle of a severe housing crisis.  But did it really need to be this way?  If you look at Scandinavia, the answer is no.  Today, Dr Sidsel Grimstad from Griffith University on the co-operative housing networks in Denmark, Sweden and Norway that mean barely anyone’s left homeless, and how they could work here too.  Featured:  Dr Sidsel Grimstad, senior lecturer, Griffith University, Brisbane

The US economy is in such a crisis, president Joe Biden has had to cancel a trip here next week.  He has less than a fortnight before the nation defaults on its debt - meaning it would essentially run out of money - for the first time ever.  Today, economist Dr Louise Sheiner, from the Brookings Institution in Washington DC, on how America's fragile political system could drag all of us into a recession.  Featured:  Dr Louise Sheiner, senior economics fellow and policy director, Hutchins Center on Fiscal and Monetary Policy, Brookings Institution, Washington DC

As the US grapples with a crisis over its debt ceiling, there's concern the entire world could be plunged into a financial crisis.  Today, ABC business and economics reporter, Gareth Hutchens, unpacks how we'll know if we’ve been pushed into a recession, and what it will mean for Australians if we are.  Featured:  Gareth Hutchens, ABC business and economics reporter, Canberra

When the government went about drafting new tax avoidance laws in 2014, it turned to the big consulting firm, PwC, to help put together the best policy possible.  But it had no idea the very firm it was paying to do that would use the highly confidential information it obtained to try to help its own multinational clients avoid the new tax.  Today, ABC business reporter, Daniel Ziffer, on the evolving scandal, and whether Australian taxpayers are being ripped off.  Featured:  Daniel Ziffer, ABC business reporter

It's an energy drink that contains double the Australian legal limit of caffeine, and teenagers can't get enough of it.  So how and why did the Prime Energy drink become so popular, to the point it's being traded on some school buses?   Today, we take a deeper look at how YouTubers are infiltrating the lives of kids around the world, and why - even if they try - parents can't keep up.  Featured:  Rachelle Hampton, culture writer and podcast co-host, Slate.com and ICYMI podcast

China says it's sending a peace envoy to Ukraine, but the prospect of Beijing brokering a deal to end the war has been met with scepticism.  Instead, fighting looks set to enter a second, more violent and possibly decisive stage.  Today, the ABC's global affairs editor, John Lyons, speaks to us from the capital Kyiv about life on the ground, and what comes next in the war.  Featured:  John Lyons, ABC global affairs editor, Kyiv

Although Australia's natural resources, like oil and gas, belong to us all, we seem to get to see just a fraction of the super profits the global energy giants are making from them.  So why did the government only tweak that with a small change in this week's budget, when it desperately needs the extra revenue?  Today, the ABC's energy reporter, Dan Mercer, on why the Treasurer Jim Chalmers won’t go further.  Featured:  Dan Mercer, energy reporter, ABC national regional and rural team