Sunrise

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is scheduled to meet with the International Energy Agency following warnings about fuel demand, amid concerns over Australia's failure to meet fuel security requirements since 2012. Energy expert John Blackburn criticises government communication regarding fuel supply issues, including delayed tanker shipments and stockpiling failures. The discussion highlights growing concerns about Australia's preparedness for global fuel supply disruptions and the impact of international conflicts on energy infrastructure.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump has issued a 24-hour deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to obliterate their power plants if they refuse to cooperate. Iran has responded by threatening to target all US energy, information technology and desalination infrastructure. Middle East analyst Dr Roger Shanahan discusses Iran's capacity to withstand prolonged conflict, noting their experience from the 1980-88 Iran-Iraq war and their ability to continue firing drones for months, making the region economically and politically uncertain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Energy Minister Chris Bowen and Deputy Prime Minister Barnaby Joyce clash over Australia's fuel crisis response and supply measurements. The government reports 30-38 days of fuel stocks while acknowledging distribution problems affecting regional communities and metropolitan areas, with Ampol prioritising deliveries to regional locations. Debate centres on whether fuel reserves include supplies on ships approaching Australia versus only stocks on land, as recommended by the International Energy Agency.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Australia's re-elected Premier Peter Malinauskas advises federal and state Labor leaders to actively counter One Nation's rising support by emphasising immigration's economic benefits and celebrating patriotism. The landslide Labor election victory saw One Nation consume approximately half the Liberal vote, potentially securing one to four lower house seats compared to Labor's projected 35 seats. Social Services Minister Tanya Plibersek and One Nation MP discuss the electoral implications, with debate centring on whether the result represents a seismic shift in Australian politics.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Energy regulators are implementing electricity price cuts from July, with wholesale energy discounts of approximately 10% expected across the country. Consumers can potentially save over $300 annually by comparing energy plans through the government's Energy Made Easy website and switching providers, with experts recommending price comparisons every 18 months to maximise savings.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump has issued a 24-hour deadline for Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz, threatening to obliterate their power plants if they fail to comply. Iran has responded by threatening to target all US energy, information technology and desalination infrastructure. Former Navy SEAL Michael Cirelli discusses Iran's remaining military capabilities after 70-90% of their military infrastructure has been degraded, including recent ballistic missile launches at Diego Garcia and the strategic importance of Kharg Island.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The New South Wales Police Rescue and Bomb Disposal Unit hosts a morning broadcast segment in Sydney, featuring demonstrations of specialist equipment and recruitment information. The presentation includes displays of the Jaws of Life and other rescue equipment, with opportunities for viewers to learn about joining the unit. Weather forecasts for major Australian cities are provided throughout the broadcast.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Guide Dogs Australia is seeking volunteer puppy raisers to care for 10-week-old Labrador puppies during their first 12 months before formal guide dog training begins. The organisation is launching a fundraiser for National Puppy Day, aiming to raise $50,000 to cover the cost of breeding, raising and training each guide dog from birth to placement. Purpose-bred Labradors are selected based on health and temperament, with dogs that don't qualify as guides being repurposed for therapy work in schools or court support programs.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Psychologist Leanne Tenbrinke has spent over a decade studying dark personality traits including psychopathy, narcissism, Machiavellianism and sadism. Her new book 'Poisonous People' provides strategies for identifying, avoiding and managing relationships with individuals who exhibit these antagonistic traits. Tenbrinke explains that people with high levels of these traits often lack motivation to change, and offers specific advice for safely exiting toxic relationships, co-parenting with difficult personalities, and spotting behavioural cues like constant interrupting and shallow emotional expressions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran has launched ballistic missiles at Israel in retaliation for a strike on its Natanz nuclear site, with one missile penetrating the Iron Dome defence system and causing a building collapse that injured close to 50 people. Iran also fired ballistic missiles towards the Diego Garcia US-UK military base, demonstrating a strike capability double the previously believed range and potentially reaching targets across Europe including London. Israel conducted retaliatory strikes on Tehran, hitting a munitions storage facility.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A high-speed crash in Bonnyrigg, Sydney's southwest, left two men injured when a Mitsubishi Lancer collided with a parked car just before 1am. The impact was severe enough to push the parked SUV into the middle of the road. Both men required treatment at the scene before being transported to hospital.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Severe tropical Cyclone Narelle is impacting the Northern Territory's Top End as a Category 3 system, bringing wind gusts up to 120 kilometres per hour. Heavy rain accompanying the cyclone is expected to trigger minor flooding across the region. The system is forecast to weaken over the coming hours as it moves through the area.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alex Lloyd rose from busking on Sydney streets to become one of Australia's most beloved artists, winning four ARIA awards and selling half a million albums. His career was marked by the smash hit 'Amazing', which became a soundtrack for weddings and funerals across the country. After openly addressing his struggles with anxiety and alcohol, Lloyd is releasing new music for the first time in 12 years, including a track called 'Echoes'.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Blue Ribbon Cookbook compiles prize-winning recipes from Australia's country show cooks, featuring family recipes and local stories from agricultural shows across the nation. Kay Sidman, a show cook from Canberra, has her award-winning sweet chilli sauce recipe featured in the book after winning multiple prizes at the Camden Show. The cookbook aims to share traditionally guarded recipes from show competitions, including cakes, biscuits, jams and preserves that have won ribbons at country shows throughout Australia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alabama-born country music star Riley Green is touring Australia with his Cowboy As It Gets tour, including sold-out concerts and a headline show at CMC Rocks. The singer, who has seven billion global streams and multiple number one platinum hits, discusses a recent incident where a fan threw a phone at him during a concert, resulting in five stitches to his ear. Green also talks about his Nashville bar Duck Blind, his love of cooking breakfast, and staying fit on tour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rising petrol prices driven by Middle Eastern conflict have triggered increased interest in electric vehicles across Australia, with approximately 400,000 Australians already making the switch. Entry-level EVs now start at just over $20,000, with government novated leasing benefits eliminating fringe benefits tax. The second-hand EV market offers good value due to significant depreciation, though buyers should verify battery health and consider charging infrastructure limitations, particularly for renters and apartment dwellers.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Clear, author of the global bestseller Atomic Habits with 250 million copies sold in over 60 languages, explains his methodology for building lasting habits through small, consistent changes. His approach centres on four laws of behaviour change: make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy, and make it satisfying. Clear introduces practical strategies including the two-minute rule, which scales habits down to their simplest form to establish consistency before improvement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Matildas are preparing to face Japan in the Women's Asian Cup final at Stadium Australia, with over 70,000 fans expected to attend in what will be the largest crowd in the tournament's history. Australia is seeking their first ever major title after losing to Japan in both the 2014 and 2018 finals. Star player Sam Kerr has returned to full fitness, and the team enters as underdogs against eighth-ranked Japan, who defeated South Korea in the semi-finals.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia faces a critical fuel shortage as diesel prices exceed $3 per litre in some areas, with energy leaders and economists warning of potential supply disruptions affecting up to 20% of global oil supplies. Farmers are particularly impacted, facing tens to hundreds of thousands of dollars in additional costs and struggling to access fuel needed for winter crop planting. The International Energy Agency is urging Australians to reduce fuel consumption through working from home, using public transport, and driving less, with experts noting that if one in five Victorians left their cars at home, it would free up enough fuel to sow half of Australia's winter crop.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

South Australians are voting in a state election with Labor predicted to achieve a landslide victory. Key marginal seats being watched include Dunstan, Black, Morialta, Hartley and Colton in metropolitan areas, along with the country seats of Cable, MacKillop and Flinders. Premier Peter Malinowski holds the seat of West Torrens, while opposition leader Ashton Hearn campaigns on cost-of-living issues, with One Nation and the Liberals gaining support in the final stages of a closely fought campaign.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chuck Norris, the martial arts expert and action film star, has died at the age of 86 following a medical emergency in Hawaii. The actor starred in numerous action films including Good Guys Wear Black, The Delta Force, and Missing in Action, as well as the long-running television series Walker Texas Ranger. In his later years, he became an internet phenomenon through countless memes celebrating his legendary toughness and perceived invincibility.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The International Energy Agency has issued a global warning as the Middle East conflict creates a major energy crisis, describing it as the largest supply disruption in the history of the global oil market. The agency is urging Australians to work from home, drive at lower speeds and avoid air travel to combat fuel supply shortages. Meanwhile, military tensions escalate with another 4,500 US marines being deployed to the Middle East as Iranian ballistic missiles target Israel and Gulf nations intercept drones.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rising fuel prices and global uncertainty are prompting Australian travellers to reconsider international Easter holiday plans and explore domestic alternatives. Travel experts highlight affordable options including intercity rail services with fares as low as $0.50 in Queensland and Jetstar flights from $49 to popular destinations like the Sunshine Coast and Gold Coast. While the traditional road trip may be on pause due to diesel costs, train travel and discounted airfares offer economical ways to explore Australia's regions.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legendary commentator Bruce McAvaney previews a massive fortnight of Australian sport, headlined by Saturday's $5 million Golden Slipper at Randwick. Jockey James MacDonald sits on 128 Group 1 wins, needing just two more to surpass Damien Oliver's record of 129, with five strong rides including unbeaten mare Autumn Glow. The upcoming Maurie Plant meet in Melbourne will feature a highly anticipated 200-metre showdown between Australian sprinters Gout Gout and Caiden Lochte, with Lochte returning from a broken back to challenge the Australian record holder.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The ING Billbarrel competition has helped thousands of Australians cover everyday expenses like electricity and gas bills over the past six weeks. Recent data shows eight in ten Australian households are experiencing bill stress, with three in ten facing extreme levels of stress, particularly affecting Gen X households who are making sacrifices by cutting dining out and other discretionary spending. ING has returned $8.8 million to customers through its 1% cashback on utility bills programme over the past 12 months.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cyclone Narelle, one of the strongest cyclones in Australian history with gusts reaching 315km/h, is crossing the Queensland coast and moving across Cape York Peninsula as a Category 4 system. The cyclone is expected to weaken to Category 2-3 while crossing land, then re-intensify over the Gulf of Carpentaria before potentially impacting the Northern Territory including Darwin and Groote Island. Heavy rainfall and flooding risks extend south to Cairns and Ingham, with the system forecast to remain active for up to two weeks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 20th Herald Sun Transurban Run for the Kids takes place on Sunday, March 29, with participants running and walking to support the Royal Children's Hospital Good Friday Appeal. Since beginning in 2006, the annual event has raised more than $24 million for the appeal. The run features multiple distance options including a 5K route that crosses the Bolte Bridge.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Daily Telegraph reports that taxpayers pay over $110,000 annually for electricity at the Prime Minister's two official residences, the Lodge and Kirribilli House, despite analysis showing the department could save at least $10,000 by switching energy providers. The Prime Minister's office was warned about potential savings by AGL in 2023 but failed to act on the offer. World Happiness Day rankings place Australia at number 15, down from 11th position, with Finland topping the list for the ninth time in ten years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melbourne's Myki contactless payment system upgrade, which is 18 months overdue and over $100 million over budget, has experienced technical issues with commuters being charged without intentionally tapping their cards. An elderly woman was charged when her bank card inside her handbag passed near a new tap-and-go reader. The issue is linked to the express transit setting on mobile devices, which allows payments without unlocking the phone, and Transport Victoria is offering refunds for unintentional charges.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorian bushfire-ravaged regions are recovering from the biggest fires since the 1800s, which destroyed 190 homes and burnt 135,000 hectares of farmland, wiping out over 9,000 kilometres of fencing. Country music artist and golden guitar winner Tom Curtin is organising a fundraiser in Mansfield, Victoria, featuring entertainment, games and activities to raise funds for affected farming families. Community organisations including Farm Angels, Rural Aid and Blaze Aid are providing ongoing support with infrastructure, food supplies and basic necessities for struggling families.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Iran has launched widespread retaliatory missile attacks across the Middle East, targeting Israel's oil refinery in Haifa and energy infrastructure in Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Kuwait. More than 1,000 people have been killed in Lebanon as the conflict escalates, with Israel striking Iranian gas fields and naval vessels in the Caspian Sea. US President Donald Trump maintains his position on the war despite economic uncertainty and soaring oil prices, while considering a $200 billion funding request to Congress.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian Energy Regulator has announced a 10% reduction in electricity bills from July 1, with households in South East Queensland and parts of New South Wales saving up to $200 annually. The price drop is attributed to mild summer weather reducing grid demand and increased solar and wind energy production decreasing reliance on gas-fired power. However, strikes on gas fields in Iran and Qatar may impact electricity prices in approximately 18 months.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia ranks equal third globally for the highest petrol price increases since the Middle East conflict began, with prices reaching $3 per litre for unleaded in some Sydney areas. Approximately 80 petrol stations across Sydney have run out of diesel, with half also depleted of petrol entirely. New South Wales government officials are considering fuel rationing measures while state energy ministers hold critical meetings to address the supply crisis.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tropical Cyclone Norell, a Category 5 system, is making landfall on the Far North Queensland coast near Cape Melville, threatening the remote community of Lockhart River with destructive winds and intense rainfall. The cyclone has already caused power outages in Cooktown and recorded wind gusts up to 94 kilometres per hour at Low Isles, with emergency warnings issued for residents to take shelter immediately. The storm's eye has closed overnight, suggesting potential slight weakening, though it remains an extremely dangerous weather event.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A Gold Coast mother is desperately searching for her wedding dress after it was mistakenly sold to an op shop for $80 by a dry cleaning company. The custom-made gown was a gift from her late mother and holds immense sentimental value, with Peggy Worrell now offering a $1000 reward for its return. The dress disappeared during the dry cleaner's facility move when it was placed in storage and later ended up in an altercation between a contractor and the business.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Vintage gaming consoles like PlayStation 2, Nintendo 64 and Game Boy are now selling for thousands of dollars, with standard N64 consoles worth around $250 and rare versions fetching up to $10,000. Retro collectables including VHS tapes, McDonald's Happy Meal toys, trading cards and Cabbage Patch dolls are experiencing a resurgence as collectors buy back childhood items. CollectFest, Australia's first festival dedicated to collectables, features over 100 exhibitors showcasing toys, games, Pokemon cards, coins and stamps, with events in Melbourne and Brisbane.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pope Leo is being invited to visit Melbourne in 2028 as part of his planned trip to Sydney for the International Eucharistic Conference. Melbourne's Archbishop Peter Commensoli has extended the invitation, with the MCG being proposed as a potential venue, following Pope John Paul II's historic 1986 visit to the stadium. The Pope, known to be a passionate sports fan from Chicago who follows baseball's White Sox and NFL's Bears, last visited Melbourne nearly four decades ago when 120,000 people attended mass at Flemington.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Afterpay Day sales launch today with four days of major discounts across fashion, beauty, technology, travel and homewares. Deals include up to 50% off at Dyson, 40% off at Adore Beauty, 30% off at The Iconic and New Balance, and up to 70% off at Kogan. Customers don't need to use Afterpay to access the sales, though late payment fees of up to $68 per item apply if using the service.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A major fire has destroyed the Toowoomba PCYC building on Jane Street overnight, with the iconic youth centre completely collapsing after becoming fully engulfed in flames. Paramedics first raised the alarm around 1:30am after smelling smoke, with nine fire crews responding at the peak of the blaze. Police are searching for an individual reportedly caught on CCTV fleeing the area, while fire investigators prepare to examine the scene.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan faces potential leadership challenge from within the Labor Party as senior figures discuss a possible change before the next state election. Recent reports and polling suggest Labor could lose up to 20 seats if an election were held now, including the Premier's own seat of Bendigo East. Deputy Premier Ben Carroll is considered the most likely successor, with debate within the party's socialist left faction about whether Allan should step down before or after the May state budget.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tropical Cyclone Norell is intensifying into a Category 5 system approaching Cape York Peninsula in far north Queensland, with catastrophic winds forecast up to 250 kilometres per hour and expected landfall within 24 hours. Communities between Lockhart River and Cape Tribulation are urged to prepare immediately as emergency services conduct door-to-door warnings. Queensland Premier David Christofulli also addresses the ongoing fuel crisis affecting farmers and residents, calling for a comprehensive plan at National Cabinet.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian military facilities at an air base in the United Arab Emirates were damaged in an Iranian attack, though more than 100 stationed personnel escaped injury. Retired Major General Mick Ryan discusses Australia's current involvement in the Middle East conflict, including deployed E-7 Wedgetail aircraft for regional defence and potential future requests from the US administration. The conflict has already impacted Australians through higher fuel prices, with discussions about possible escalation and additional military commitments, particularly regarding the Strait of Hormuz.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A gunman opened fire at a cafe in Melbourne's west, captured on CCTV footage. Fourteen people were drinking coffee outside when three bullets were fired in the drive-by shooting, with one man shot twice in the arm and a third bullet missing the crowd. Police believe the attack is linked to Victoria's ongoing war for control of the illicit tobacco trade.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kyle Sandilands' contract with the Australian Radio Network has been terminated following allegations of serious misconduct, with the radio host claiming he was not given proper opportunity to address the allegations. The termination could result in a payout exceeding $80 million and comes just as first quarter radio ratings are set to be released, which will reveal the financial impact of losing Kyle and Jackie O from the network's lineup. Legal action between Sandilands and ARN is expected to continue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank of Australia has announced its second interest rate hike of the year, lifting the official rate to 4.1% in a split decision. The increase will add approximately $2,800 annually to the average Australian mortgage. Treasurer Jim Chalmers defends the government's economic management, citing budget surpluses and $114 billion in savings, while acknowledging ongoing inflation challenges and pressures on household budgets.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The 70th Golden Slipper horse race approaches with trainer Chris Waller's horse Autumn Glow aiming for an 11th straight victory at Rosehill Racecourse. Jockey James McDonald is attempting to break Damien Oliver's all-time record for Group 1 wins in Australia, needing just two more victories at age 34. Waller has three runners in the race, all with favourable barrier draws and lightly raced records.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Queen Mary of Denmark and King Frederik are concluding their Australian state visit with business engagements and a children's hospital visit in Melbourne, following an appearance at the MCG. The tour will culminate with Queen Mary's return to Tasmania, marking her first visit to her home state since becoming Queen. Danish Royal Correspondent Marie Ronde notes the relaxed and informal atmosphere of the visit, with Queen Mary displaying her characteristic ability to balance royal formality with her Australian roots.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tropical Cyclone Narelle is developing offshore in Far North Queensland and is forecast to intensify to a Category 4 system before making landfall between Lockhart River and Port Douglas on Friday morning. The cyclone is expected to bring wind gusts over 225 km/h in its core, heavy rainfall, flash flooding and significant storm surge to the region. After crossing the Queensland coast, Narelle is predicted to redevelop over the Gulf of Carpentaria, cross the Top End, and potentially track across to Western Australia by late next week.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Reserve Bank of Australia has increased the official cash rate by 25 basis points for the second consecutive month, adding almost $3,000 to the average Australian borrower's annual mortgage costs. Economists predict one or two additional rate hikes may follow, with the Middle East conflict driving oil prices higher and contributing to inflation pressures. Dr Christian Bayliss from Fort Lake Asset Management warns that sustained oil prices above $100 could reduce economic growth to just 1%, bringing Australia dangerously close to recession.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Radio broadcaster Kyle Sandilands has had his contract terminated by ARN, with the network citing an on-air argument with co-host Jackie O as grounds for dismissal. Sandilands disputes the termination, claiming it's invalid and that he was prevented from resolving the situation despite being willing to return to work. The dispute centres on an $88 million contract, with legal action expected to follow as neither party has shown willingness to negotiate a settlement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.