The Briefing

Public confidence in Australian universities is continuing to erode, as institutions face funding issues, widespread job cuts and allegations of failures to report gender-based violence across campuses. The University of Technology and the Australian National University have both faced various controversies over the past couple of years, prompting renewed scrutiny of university governance and priorities. Experts fear universities are prioritising profit over education, losing sight of their purpose as educational institutions and acting as businesses first. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith, is joined by Senator David Pocock to explain what needs to change in the governance of Australian universities and how the sector can rebuild public trust.  Afternoon headlines: Prime minister Anthony Albanese gives his first speech to the UN, Bali hospital denies allegations of organ theft after body of Australian repatriated without heart and Snoop Dog still set to perform at the AFL grand final Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Albo and Trump have become Insta official, Trump slammed by London Mayor over 'Islamophobic' sharia law comments, WHO issues statement on paracetamol causing autism claims, fresh warnings for online machete sellers, A-League footballers sentenced over their involvement in a gambling scam and would you pay over $2K for kindy artwork? Deep Dive: Former UFC champion Conor McGregor’s bid for Ireland’s presidency had all the hallmarks of a modern populist campaign - from promises to make his country great again, to anti-immigration rhetoric and ties to one of America’s most powerful families.    While he withdrew from the race last week, what lessons can we learn from his run and could something similar happen in Australia?    In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by political strategist turn pollster and director of RedBridge group, Kos Samaras to unpack the celebrity-to-politician pipeline, and whether someone like McGregor could ever make it in Australian politics. Further listening from the headlines:  Fact-checking Trump’s UN speech How to stop teen machete murders Trump’s autism misinformation Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US president Donald Trump made a fiery 56-minute speech at the UN General Assembly - well over the customary 15-minute time limit - telling world leaders their ‘countries are going to hell’ over migration and that climate change was a ‘con job’. The speech was delivered to a room of visibly unsettled world leaders and drew immediate global attention, triggering a flurry of fact-checking efforts. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Cory Alpert, from Melbourne University and a former Biden White House staffer, to explain if Trump’s speech was an attack on the United Nations.   Afternoon headlines: ABC ordered to pay $150,000 fine for unlawfully sacking Antoinette Lattouf, calls for Optus CEO to resign as the telco is ordered to pay $100m fine for ‘predatory’ sales practices and Jimmy Kimmel returns to screens.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over four years after Brittany Higgins first went public with allegations she was sexually assaulted in Parliament House; the political and legal fallout is still playing out today.  It's included a criminal trial, corruption probes, multiple defamation cases, and fresh allegations aimed at her rapist.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy and Chris Spyrou unpack everything that’s happened since the explosive defamation trial between Bruce Lehrmann and Lisa Wilkinson, up to the latest courtroom sagas, payouts and “James Bond-esque" investigation.Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: White House confirms Albo meeting after Trump sprays UN, Australian childcare bosses grilled over mistreatment and abuse at inquiry, Elon Musk’s father accused of child sexual abuse, new changes for millions with student debt, and the country’s most culturally powerful people have been named. Deep Dive: Higgins v Lehrmann: Part 1 Brittany Higgins and Bruce Lehrmann are names that continue to dominate headlines over four years after Brittany first went public with allegations she was sexually assaulted in Parliament House.  Since then, a legal, political and media domino effect ensued, including a criminal trial, corruption probes and multiple defamation cases that are still playing out today.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy and Chris Spyrou unpack the case at the heart of it all, the media frenzy and the Lehrman v Network Ten defamation suit.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr - now Donald Trump’s Health Secretary - has made dubious claims about vaccines, with his latest suggesting common painkillers like Panadol could cause autism in unborn children. His statements, widely rejected by doctors and health experts, have reignited controversy not just in public health but within one of America’s most famous dynasties: the Kennedys. In our first episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks the feud between Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and his family. From being called a 'threat to the health and wellbeing of every American' to facing condemnation from relatives including the former US Ambassador to Australia, RFK Jr.’s crusade has sparked a family stoush with political and cultural consequences far beyond the dinner table.  So how did he stray so far from his family’s legacy? We’re breaking it down in... The Beefing!  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a bombshell statement sending shockwaves around the world, the US President has claimed paracetamol use in pregnant women is linked to autism. Although admitting he’s not a doctor, Donald Trump also made concerning allegations about vaccines. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by leading autism researcher, Professor David Trembath, to unpack today’s statements from the US President and shares important advice for concerned women and expecting parents.  Headlines: A senior police officer has been charged with the assault of Hannah Thomas, a man known as the “Moore Park Rapist" has plead guilty to a number of sexual assaults, and Matilda’s Captain, Steph Catley, has won a prestigious international award.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Opposition leader Sussan Ley welcomed to Israel over Palestine pushback, Super typhoon set to make landfall in China, Hong Kong and the Philippines, The Duchess of York dropped by charities over Epstein apology, Instagram rolls out AI to detect teens lying about age, and AFL's night of nights – the Brownlow! Deep Dive: Boycotts and ‘political consumerism’ are on the rise, with consumers actively choosing to buy from companies that align with their political views.   It’s become one of the most common forms of political participation in western liberal democracies, including right here in Australia, over issues like Palestine, Ukraine, Tesla and Disney.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Erin O'Brien, an Associate Professor in International Relations at Griffith University, to explain if you can create change by joining a boycott.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The fallout continues over the Optus disaster as pressure grows on the Telecommunications Giant after its deadly triple-zero outage. Federal Communications Minister Anika Wells says Optus has failed the Australian people, warning the company will face significant consequences.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by tech expert Trevor Long to unpack what caused the outrage, who’s to blame and the warning to other telco giants.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Australia joins Canada and the UK in formally recognising Palestine, Charlie Kirk's funeral service is underway at a stadium in Arizona, at least five people tried to warn telco giant Optus of an outage that impacted 000 calls, Tony Abbott, Liz Truss, and Jacinta Nampijinpa Price headline a conservative conference in Brisbane, and it turns out plenty of Aussies are willing to risk a fine when catching public transport. Deep Dive: The fatal stabbings of two boys, aged 12 and 15, in Melbourne’s west shocked the nation and put a spotlight on youth violence across Victoria.  Police have since arrested seven teenagers over the brutal attack, but deeper questions remain about what’s fuelling this trend and whether government responses are helping or harming.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with criminal lawyer and forensic psychologist Dr Brianna Chesser to unpack it.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coachella 2026 line-up has officially dropped, featuring major headliners like Justin Bieber and Sabrina Carpenter, but one Aussie act also taking the stage is Royel Otis.  Royel Maddell and Otis Pavlovic make up the pop duo, who recently went viral for their covers of Linger by the Cranberries and Sophie Ellis-Bextor's Murder on the Dancefloor.  In this bonus episode of The Briefing, we’re revisiting a chat from last year with Tom Tilley and Royel Otis who explain how they came together and the story behind their debut album, Pratts & Pain Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Gwilym Lee is a proud Welshman and self-proclaimed ‘pretender’, best known for portraying Queen guitarist Brian May in Bohemian Rhapsody. The actor grew up in Birmingham and began his career on stage before staring in television dramas like The Great, Midsomer Murders and Top End Bub - alongside Aussie actor and co-writer Miranda Tapsell. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Gwilym shares what it was like filming in the Northern Territory and playing Ned, the ‘confused white guy’, while gaining insight into First Nations culture, community, and art. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Mr Fantasy music video TO EAT: Musashi protein bars TO EAT: Potato salad party TO READ: Zeteo news Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The race is on to find the next NSW Police Commissioner, but the top candidate is already plagued with controversy. The NSW Premier says he’s willing to overlook bad decisions and that the NSW police commissioner did not need to have a “lily-white record”. It comes at the end of a massive week for the NSW government... after it passed groundbreaking legislation that could set a precedent across the country.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by NSW Minister Rose Jackson to explain the new deepfake laws and housing planning overhauls and also her reaction on who will be the state’s next Police Commissioner.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Donald Trump says Jimmy Kimmel being taken off air is not a free speech issue, Queensland becomes the first state to ban pill testing, doctor who treated Erin Patterson reprimanded by medical board for 'crazy bitch' comments, Brigitte Macron to submit 'scientific evidence' proving she is not a man and a new survey for dog-obsessed Aussies! Further listening from the headlines:  The Macrons vs Candace Owens Part I on Apple Podcasts and Spotify PART 2: French president sues podcaster over claims first lady is a man on Apple Podcasts and Spotify The drug report the government won't release on Apple Podcasts and Spotify Deep Dive: A UFO sighting confirmed by hundreds of Australians has been shrouded in secrecy for decades.  Now there are fresh calls for the government to hold a parliamentary inquiry into the Westall incident, as well as the government cover-up that followed.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with UAP researcher and activist Grant Lavac, who started the petition, about why the public and the government need to follow the US’s lead in taking UFO sightings seriously.Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump’s war on the media has just escalated, with the Jimmy Kimmel Show cancelled after the late-night night host made comments about the US President’s reaction to the assassination of Charlie Kirk. President Trump today also banned Australia’s ABC from attending a news conference after a 4 Corners journalist questioned the US leader over his family’s business dealings.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Crikey journalist Charlie Lewis to unpack what these latest developments mean for the independence of media and freedom of speech.  Headlines: A major court win for former broadcaster Alan Jones, the federal government has handed down its long-awaited emissions reduction target, and retail giant Kmart has been found to have unlawfully used facial recognition technology.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Thousands protest in London as Donald Trump receives a royal welcome in the UK, Vic Police warn of fake cop collecting donations for Porepunkah victims, Australian-first trial to combat gender-based violence to launch, Ben & Jerry's co-founder quits over Gaza dispute with parent company, and Gout Gout qualifies in Tokyo!Deep Dive: Influencers and content creators are facing backlash for ‘Taliban tourism’, accused of accepting paid trips to militant-ruled Afghanistan.  Australian blogger Chloe Baredinsky made national headlines over her two-month trip to the country, where it was later revealed she accepted payments toward accommodation, food, permits and guides.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by two Afghan women, Senator Fatima Payman and former worker in Afghanistan's Ministry of Women's Affairs, Nasima Kakaea, to discuss the controversial tourism trend.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s being labelled as a major diplomatic blunder by the Albanese government, with Papua New Guinea pulling out of signing a key defence treaty with Australia at the last minute. While the federal government was confident of sealing the deal, the dramatic turnaround has raised serious concerns over Australia’s security and diplomatic future in the critical Pacific Region.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Pacific Islands diplomatic expert Mihai Sora to unpack why the failed treaty is a concerning setback for Australia and an important win for China.  Headlines: Several protestors have been arrested in England after projected images of Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein were displayed on a castle, hundreds of jobs are set to go in one of Queensland's biggest coal mines, the NSW Government has announced the biggest overhaul of planning laws in half a century, and Virgin Australia has launched its 'Pet in Cabin' flights.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Murder charges laid against Charlie Kirk’s accused killer, terrorism offenses tossed for Luigi Mangione, former broadcaster Alan Jones facing more indecent assault charges, thousands of Palestinians flee Gaza City as UN report finds Israel is committing genocide, White House labels Aussie journo ‘foreign fake news loser’, Albanese government to invest $1.1 billion in sustainable fuels, and Coachella’s 2026 lineup is here!Deep Dive: Some of our big banks have announced mass redundancies over the last month, impacting thousands of Australians, and the ripple effects for productivity could last for years.  ANZ said they are cutting around 3,500 jobs over the next 12 months and since then are now facing a record $240 million penalty for widespread misconduct. NAB also announced they will be cutting more than 400 roles and hiring more employees overseas.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Swinburne law and corporate governance expert Helen Bird to explain what happens in mass redundancies and why they aren’t always about cost-cutting.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sunscreen is back in the spotlight, with groundbreaking new research showing a link between daily sunscreen use and vitamin D deficiency. Earlier this year, several sunscreen brands were pulled from shelves over conflicting SPF testing results. Now, new Australian research has shown sunscreen use can also affect our vitamin D levels. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by the author of the study, Professor Rachel Neale, who unpacks the new findings and explains why we should still be using sunscreen.  Headlines: At least one person has been killed and 7 others have been injured after a gas leak at a Sydney restaurant, guidelines for the under-16 social media ban have been unveiled, and the chief executive of one of Australia’s biggest retail groups has been sacked over an alleged relationship with a senior staff member.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dementia is now Australia’s leading cause of death, and it doesn’t just affect the elderly.   Around 90 kids die from childhood dementia each year in Australia, that’s about the same number of children that die from cancer.   In this bonus episode of The Briefing, we revisit Antoinette Lattouf’s conversation with Meg Maack - CEO of the Childhood Dementia Initiative and mother to two children with childhood dementia.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: FBI says DNA evidence links suspect to Charlie Kirk murder, senior Liberal threatens to quit frontbench over net zero targets, Queensland trio charged relating to 'end of life business,' protestors promise to target Albo’s new office and Cathy Freeman and Nikki Webster return to where it all began! Further listening from the headlines: Who’s responsible for the Coalition crisis?Deep Dive: Anti-immigration protests in Australia and abroad have led to violent, racist attacks, as well as heated and divisive debates online.  But while the movements have been led by far-right extremists, among attendees and broader supporters, are residents who say they’re just everyday Aussies with ‘legitimate’ immigration concerns.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with immigration and public policy expert, Associate Professor Anna Boucher, on whether these arguments are rooted in truth or falsehoods, and what’s being missed amid the divisive headlines, debates and demonstrations.Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Coalition has recorded its worst primary result in Newspoll history, as Sussan Ley struggles to save the Liberal Party. The latest research shows a growing number of Australian voters are continuing to abandon the Federal Opposition and head towards minor parties like The Greens and One Nation.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by pollster Tony Barry, who says the Liberal Party can be saved, but its members need to return to core values or will continue to lose millions of young voters in the process.  Headlines: A sobering new report warns 1.5 million Aussies are at risk from rising sea levels, ANZ has admitted to widespread misconduct and agreed to pay a record $240 million in penalties, and history has been made at the 77th Primetime Emmy Awards. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: UK PM says Britain will ‘never surrender’ its flag to far-right protesters, police can't rule out Dezi Freeman hasn't escaped interstate, Coalition records a historic low in poll history, experts warning STI rates have doubled nationwide, and The Emmys are on today. Deep Dive: Would you hand over your licence, credit card or face ID to access adult content online?  That’s exactly what could soon be required, as Australia pushes ahead with new age verification laws for porn sites.  The goal is to protect kids, but can it be done without compromising our privacy?  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Crikey's Cam Wilson about how these new rules might work, what they mean for your data, and whether they’ll actually make the internet safer. Further listening from the headlines: Michael Theo's seven non-negotiables for Love On The Spectrum Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2021, a neatly dressed man in his 60s walks into a Sydney Police Station. He looks like a regular guy. But police are stunned - this isn’t just any man. It’s Darko Desic. A fugitive who escaped from Grafton Prison with a hacksaw and bolt cutters three decades earlier. A man who was a prolific weed grower. A man who lived in hiding for 30 years - right under the noses of the police.  How did he do it? How did he evade capture for so long? And why, after all that time, did he finally give himself up?  That’s what journalist Tim Elliot set out to uncover in the latest season of LiSTNR’s documentary series, Secrets We Keep. If you’re hooked and want more, click here to go straight to episode 2.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jack Toohey calls himself a ‘Jack of all trades, master of none’ but his viral videos on the housing crisis suggest otherwise.  After a privileged start at private school Jack swapped out the business world for advocacy, walking away from running his own company to tackling climate change, housing and gender equality. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Jack unpacks why the housing system is stacked against young Australians and why the creator economy might just be a shiny scam propping up tech bros. Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: Uproar on Netflix TO READ: One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This by Omar El Akkad TO EAT: Beetroot dip TO TRY: Turkish bath house Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s the new bombshell Charlie Sheen documentary that’s making headlines around the world. The US actor says he’s finally telling the truth about his drug addiction, wild partying and how he’s lost hundreds of millions of dollars.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by LiSTNR entertainment reporter Justin Hill to unpack all the explosive new revelations and how the troubled star has tried to turn his life around.  Headlines: Australia’s special envoy on Islamophobia has delivered a landmark report, PM Anthony Albanese has responded to the assassination of Charlie Kirk, and Australia’s best meat pie has been crowned.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: FBI locate rifle believed to have killed Charlie Kirk, Brisbane teen on terror charges granted bail, Jeffrey Epstein scandal spills into the UK, dementia is the new leading cause of death among Aussies, and which capital city has the cheapest petrol? Deep Dive: A film about a demon-slaying K-pop girl group has taken over the world - becoming Netflix’s most-watched film of all time, with hundreds and millions of streams on its soundtrack.   So what is it about KPop Demon Hunters that’s struck such a global chord?   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with K-pop expert and PhD candidate Megan Moon about the film’s explosive success and what it reveals about the growing cultural power of South Korea.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The political fallout has already begun from the assassination of US conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The 31-year-old was shot dead in front of thousands while speaking at Utah Valley University. Now there are serious concerns that this shooting will only spark more political violence and deeper divisions within the US.   In this episode of The Briefing, US Politics Expert John Barron joins Natarsha Belling to unpack who Charlie Kirk was and the implications this latest political assassination will have on a divided America.  Headlines: Julie Bishop has broken her silence over bullying and harassment allegations, Opposition leader Sussan Ley has apologised to the Australian Indian community, and Prince Harry has met with King Charles.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Support for Sussan Ley after Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price dumping, popular right-wing influencer Charlie Kirk shot at Utah rally, flash floods kill at least 11 people in Indonesia, ringleader behind antisemitic Sydney attacks charged, tens of thousands of Aussies at risk of identity fraud, and Elon Musk is no longer the world’s richest person! Deep Dive: Hundreds of thousands of men become new dads each year, a milestone marked with joy, but also poor mental health outcomes for many.  One in ten fathers will experience depression, one in five anxiety, while research shows a man’s mental health has lasting impacts on not only himself, but his kids, and society more broadly.   In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy speaks with young dad Luke McClounan about his experience with postnatal depression and the ongoing stigma men face, while Dad’s Group CEO Thomas Docking weighs in on what’s behind the issue, and what needs to change.    Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is under attack from leaders across the world after he launched missile attacks on Qatar. Qatar has threatened to respond, with the world nervously watching on to see what happens next after this dangerous escalation.   In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Defence Expert Jennifer Parker, who unpacks what this latest attack means and whether this may spark all-out war.  Headlines: Poland has shot down multiple Russian drones, the federal government has announced it will spend nearly $2 billion arming Australia with dozens of autonomous submarines, and Apple has unveiled its slimmest ever smartphone.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: World leaders condemn Israeli strikes in Qatar, nationwide protections urged amid retail crime wave, penalties tripled for dodgy childcare centres, travel ban proposed on US influencers over wildlife encounters, what we hate most about other drivers Deep Dive: Sunscreen, tanning and the way we regulate products have all been thrown into the spotlight this year, after a CHOICE report found some popular sunscreens were well below their published SPF claims.  It comes as tan lines have started trending across social media, with some unregulated tanning methods like tanning injections, nasals sprays and tanning gummies booming.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by leading dermatologist and sun safety expert Dr Ryan de Cruz to explain the science behind tanning gummies. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new deal has been reached, which cements Lachlan Murdoch’s power to run his father’s multi-billion-dollar media empire.  After bitter family and court battles over the family trust, a new settlement has now been reached with Rupert Murdoch’s eldest son taking the reins and his siblings Prudence, Elisabeth and James cutting ties with the family business.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by journalist Calum Jaspan to discuss the latest twist in this Succession-like drama and what it means for the future of the Murdoch empire.  Headlines: A boat carrying Greta Thunberg heading to Gaza has allegedly been hit by a drone, ANZ to slash thousands of jobs, and another twist in the Jeffrey Epstein and Donald Trump saga. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Aussie kids will be banned from having violent, harmful and sexual conversations with AI chatbots, Victorian Premier’s orders crisis talks with a South Sudanese community after double stabbing, man accused of trying to assassinate Donald Trump faces trial, search for Dezi Freeman enters third week as officer laid to rest, and Mary Fowler hits the catwalk. Deep Dive: After nearly four years on the run, New Zealand fugitive Tom Phillips was shot dead following an armed standoff with police on Monday.  Phillips had been in hiding with his three children since 2021, prompting one of the country’s most high-profile missing persons investigations.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling speaks with private investigator Chris Budge about the final moments of Tom Phillips’ life, the years he spent in hiding, and what the future holds for the children at the centre of it all. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Triple murderer Erin Patterson has been sentenced to life for the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another after serving them her deadly beef wellington dish. Some experts say Erin is a narcissistic psychopath, with no empathy or remorse. So why did she murder her in-laws, and will she appeal her conviction?  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Criminologist Xanthe Mallett to unpack today’s history development and why she believes Erin thought she was going to get away with the murders.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Erin Patterson has been charged with the murders of three relatives and the attempted murder of another; after allegedly serving up a beef Wellington dish laced with poisonous death cap mushrooms at a lunch at her home in 2023.   In this special series of The Briefing, Helen Smith unpacks the sentence in under two minutes.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Bondi brawl being investigated by police, families call for justice after two teens stabbed to death in Melbourne, NSW government pauses shark net removal trails after fatal attack, triple-murderer Erin Patterson to be sentenced today, and the US Open wraps up.  Deep Dive: Plans are reportedly underway to bring home more Australian women and children linked to Islamic State from Syria, though the government denies involvement.   Their potential return has sparked strong reactions from across the political spectrum, from support by humanitarian groups to fierce opposition by politicians and commentators.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with expert in global Islamic politics, Professor Greg Barton, about what repatriation actually involves and whether public fears about their return are justified. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Journalist Grace Fitzgibbon went through in the space of a year what most people experience in a lifetime. In the throes of a public break-up, she lost her beloved brother Jack in a tragic military training accident. While grieving, she found unexpected love with Jack’s best friend. Now the couple are expecting a baby together.   In this raw and moving conversation, Natarsha Belling and Grace discuss loss, love, and the clarity that comes from tragedy.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tim Elliott has done what few could - persuading one of Australia’s most elusive prison escapees to break his silence. The journalist and author has always been drawn to the hidden corners of people’s lives, shaped in part by his own story of privilege and pain, shadowed by hardship and the loss of his father. In his latest true crime series, Secrets We Keep: Jailbreak, Tim enters the mind of Darko (aka ‘Dougie’) Desic, a wildly successful weed grower who staged a bold prison escape and remained on the run for decades. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Tim reveals why eccentric and sometimes ‘dodgy’ characters confide in him and reflects on how his family dealt with his father's mental illness. This episode discusses suicide. If you or anyone you know needs help you can call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service - 24 hours -1300 659 467  Weekend list with Helen Smith TO WATCH: The Thursday Murder Club on Netflix  TO TRY: Air-fryer (Antoinette is late to the game) TO EAT: Smashed potato gem chips TO DO: Fathers day message to someone you love Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Experts are warning about a serious eating disorder that affects thousands of Australians but often goes undetected. Avoidant/Restrictive Intake Disorder, or ARFID, can be debilitating, but if diagnosed can be successfully managed.  In the Episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by clinical psychologist and Eating Disorders Expert Dr Sarah Trobe, who explains how ARFID is diagnosed and how it can be effectively treated.  If you want more information or support relating to disordered eating, contact the Butterfly Foundation on 1800 334 673.  Headlines: Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell has been denied bail, former Qantas Boss Alan Joyce has pocketed $3.8 million worth of shares and more than a thousand people have gathered to farewell one of the two police officers killed in last week’s Porepunkah shooting.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Anthony Albanese says he spoke to Donald Trump on the phone, more allegations against Sydney childcare chain under investigation, Indian Australian leaders demand apology from Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani dies aged 91, and do our listeners have 'refuel anxiety'?  Deep Dive: Anna Wintour's successor has officially been announced as 39-year-old Chloe Malle: a self-proclaimed ‘proud nepo baby’, who’s been working at Vogue for over 15 years.So what does this appointment mean for a publication that's been influencing millions of us around the world for years, and can Malle's new role help Vogue survive in the digital age without becoming another clickbait machine?  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by former editor of Vogue Australia, Kirstie Clements, who explains how this new appointment could make Wintour more powerful than before.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Jeffrey Epstein investigation is back in the headlines, as victims and survivors hold a special news conference threatening to name names unless the US administration publicly reveals all they know about the case. US politicians from both sides have supported the survivors and their families, saying the cover-up has to stop.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by US political expert and co-host of Planet America, John Barron, who says pressure is mounting on Donald Trump, and the 'Epstein files' could be the beginning of his downfall.  Headlines: Ben Roberts-Smith has had his defamation appeal thrown out, Robodebt victims will receive an additional $475 million in compensation, and AFL great Mick Malthouse has been stabbed during a terrifying home invasion. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Former Premier defends China visit, total cost of Nauru deal revealed, more support on the way for thousands of older Australians, Chinese cars among most purchased in Australia, and Nick Kyrgios reckons he can beat women's No.1 seed Aryna Sabalenka. Deep Dive: As the search for accused police killer Dezi Freeman stretches into its tenth day, hundreds of officers, drones, helicopters and even the ADF are combing Victoria’s rugged High Country - but what’s happening behind the scenes of this massive operation?  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with criminologist and former police officer and hostage negotiator, Dr Vincent Hurley, about the tactics authorities are using, how Freeman might be thinking, and why appeals for his surrender are still part of the plan. Further listening from headlines:  'Dictator Dan' in China Our ‘secret’ $400m prison island Will Elon unplug your EV dream?  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Victorian Premier Dan Andrews is under fire for attending a major military parade in China alongside President Xi Jin Ping, and the North Korean and Russian leaders.  Andrews is been slammed by both sides of politics for the bizarre move. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Australia-China Relations expert, Professor James Laurenceson, to unpack today’s extraordinary developments and if the federal government will now be asking serious questions.  Headlines: Victoria Police say they have searched more than 100 properties in Porepunkah, more than 33,000 pages of documents linked to Jeffrey Epstein have been released, and GDP increases for June quarter Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

BONUS: Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell was arrested over his alleged involvement in an attack on a first nations Camp Sovereignty over the weekend, following the March for Australia rally.   Earlier in the year we saw rallies in Adelaide, Nazi salutes in Melbourne and politicians racing to legislate tough new penalties to crackdown on those displaying any sort of solidarity with the ideology. So how big is the neo-Nazi movement here in Australia right now? What does a modern day, Aussie Nazi look like? And are we doing enough to stop them?  In this Bonus episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Dr Kaz Ross, an independent researcher into the far-right, who reveals what she sees the state of Nazism to be in Australia, and what it’s future trajectory might be.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Neo-Nazi leader Thomas Sewell arrested, US Federal court rules Donald Trump's deployment of National Guard to LA protests illegal, over half of our Federal MPs and senators own investment properties or multiple homes, Adelaide Crows player Izak Rankine apologises for homophobic comment, and what's something you don't want to find in your burrito? Deep Dive: Australia has signed a $400 million-plus deal with Nauru to deport and resettle 280 non-citizens.  The Government argues the offshore arrangement protects the integrity of our visa system, while critics are calling it cruel, costly, and extreme.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Greens Senator David Shoebridge about the deal, why he says it’s creating a “21st century prison colony,” and what’s really driving Australia’s immigration policy.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government has released the results of its long-awaited trial into its plan to crackdown on social media users under 16. Many experts warn that the age verification rules won’t work, and can be easily outsmarted by tech-savvy teenagers. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by internet studies Professor Tama Leaver, who says the new measures won’t keep children safe online, and there are also major privacy concerns with what new data big tech companies will now want from young people.  Headlines: Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan has had to abandon a press conference, Queensland MP Bob Katter could be penalised after threatening a journalist, and NSW surfer Molly Picklum has won the World Surf League finals in Fiji. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Our prescriptions are set to get a little cheaper, Aldi vegetable suppliers accused of being part of a price-fixing cartel, some of the world’s most powerful leaders are meeting in China, the Taliban government in Afghanistan is calling for international help after a magnitude 6.0 earthquake, and two-thirds of young drivers are scared to refuel their cars. Deep Dive: Short-stay rentals like Airbnb and Stayz could be costing Australian taxpayers up to $556 million a year - not through booking fees, but tax breaks.  A new report from housing advocacy group Everybody’s Home revealed that nearly 170,000 short-term rentals across the country are linked to huge losses in tax revenue through negative gearing.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith speaks with Everybody’s Home spokesperson Maiy Azize about the true cost of short-stay rentals and whether tighter regulation could improve housing affordability. Further listening from the headlines: Why you can't get your medication, and who's to blame Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So, is migration really to blame for our housing crisis? According to one expert, our growing population is not the main cause of skyrocketing prices and rent. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Economist Matt Grudnoff, who explains that tax breaks with negative gearing and capital gains are the real issue. Matt says governments need to abolish these tax loopholes to make property more affordable.  Headlines: Victoria Police believe members of the public could be helping Dezi Freeman evade authorities, an attack by far-right protesters on a First Nations camp has been condemned, and Magda Szubanski has shared a candid video from hospital.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Anti-mass immigration rallies condemned as hateful and racist, wife of alleged gunman Dezi Freeman urges him to surrender, Greta Thunberg is sailing to Gaza again, house prices have officially risen again, and your sushi might taste different in South Australia today. Deep Dive: Australia’s rising gun ownership is in the national spotlight, as a manhunt continues for Dezi Freeman, a gunman accused of killing two police officers in Victoria last week.   Despite fewer licensed gun owners, the number of firearms in Australia has surged past pre-Port Arthur massacre levels, raising concerns about regulation and transparency.    In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Joel Negin, professor of Global Health from the University of Sydney, to discuss shifting gun culture, political responses, and whether Australia’s gun laws are still fit for purpose.  Further listening from the headlines: Can we blame our housing pain on immigration? Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroom Facebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time in Australia, a long-overdue inquiry into abuse and coercive control within cults and religious groups has been launched. The Victorian inquiry was initiated after reports of coercive behaviour at the Geelong Revival Centre, many of which were revealed by Richard Baker in the LiSTNR podcast Secrets We Keep: Pray Harder.   In the series, Rich described the GRC, under the leadership of Pastor Noel Hollins, as one of Australia’s most extreme Pentecostal churches. Former members shared horrific allegations of historical child sex abuse cover-ups, tight control of their relationships, and harsh restrictions placed on the freedoms of women.   In this special episode, we wanted to share episode one of Secrets We Keep Pray Harder with you.  If you want to binge the rest of the series, click here for episode 2 now.  The interviews in this series were recorded during Pastor Noel Hollins leadership of the Geelong Revival Centre. During production, Pastor Noel died. The experiences and allegations raised do not relate to the current leadership of the GRC.  Lifeline 13 11 14.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.