The Briefing

Yesterday was the 38th Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA) awards. It’s Australia's musical industry night of nights, where artists from across the country are recognised for their success here and abroad. Troye Savon, Royel Otis, and 22 first nations artists were all given a nod for their impact on the industry this year. There's no shortage of talent across the island – from Kylie, to Tame Impala, to ACDC, Australian music has for decades made international charts, club anthems, and worldwide superstars. But we are also an island – and awards nights like the ARIAs can reflect just how tough the music industry is a space to succeed. Earlier this year it was reported that around half of musicians in Australia earned less than $6,000 in 2023, forcing many to quit the industry. So what does it take to succeed in the Australian music industry? On this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith hit the ARIA’s red carpet, asking Budjera, GrentPerez, Surely Shirely, Zindzi & The Zillionaires, Ripley Alexander , Kaylee Bell and Van-Anh Nguyen to share their reflections on the industry. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Social media ban legislation to be introduced to parliament today, US closes embassy in Ukraine amid warnings of ‘significant air attack’, Hawthorn settles court case with previous Indigenous players, and who won big at the ARIA's last night? Deep Dive: Celebrities, institutions and regular people have been abandoning X, formerly Twitter, and joining rival Bluesky in recent weeks. Bluesky is one of a handful of short text social media alternatives that have had some success competing since Elon Musk bought X in 2022. But X still dominates the space. So is Bluesky a real, better alternative, or are those making the switch and proclaiming the death of X just virtue signalling? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Crikey’s associate editor and internet culture and tech reporter Cam Wilson to get his verdict on if Bluesky is living up to the hype, and if it will survive. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom always suspected he was autistic, but had never been formally diagnosed. Now he knows the answer. In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In Part Three, we join Tom as he learns if he is on the autism spectrum, what he makes of the result, and what it means for his future. We're also hear from Professor Adam Guastella from the University of Sydney’s Brain and Mind Centre as he tells Tom what he learned from Tom’s assessment. Listen to Part One here and Part Two here. You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here, and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Ukraine fires first US missiles at Russia, Female CEOs in Australia paid $170,000 less, Sydney train network to shut down for three days over union dispute, and a Doomsday fish washes up on California beach. Deep Dive: 3D printing guns is on the rise in Australia. The guns, made using a combination of plastic 3D printed parts and metal components, are unregistered weapons, known as ‘ghost guns’. Over the last 12 months these weapons have been seized in every state and territory in Australia, prompting a national wide task force. But with access to making them only increasing, is attempts to halt their production and spread across the country a runaway train? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Skeeve Stevens, a futurist and expert in the weaponisation of technology, to break down how easy it is to print a gun, and what he thinks law enforcement and the government can do to stop it. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom always suspected he was autistic, but had never been formally diagnosed. What does finding that out look like? In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In Part Two, we travel to Professor Adam Guastella's clinic at the Brain and Mind Centre to sit in on Tom’s assessment, learn how and why neurodiversity is so varied, and how one who suspects they are autistic navigates that complexity. Listen to Part One here. You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here, and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Australian’s want review of Aukus following Trump, Kremlin slams US over Ukraine missile decision, Parliamentary inquiry stops short of recommending social media ban, and Sam Kerr and partner Kristie Mewis are having a baby. Deep Dive: 83-year-old Alan Jones has been charged with 24 offences against eight alleged victims spanning two decades, following a lengthy investigation by police into alleged indecent assault and sexual touching of young men by the former broadcaster. For the past nine months Strike Force Bonnefin, run by the State Command’s Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad, has been investigating the allegations, which yesterday resulted in Jones being charged with 11 counts of aggravated indecent assault, nine counts of assault with an act of indecency, two counts of sexually touching another person without their consent and two counts of common assault. He was granted conditional bail and will face Downing Centre Local Court on December 18. Jones strenuously denies all accusations laid out against him. In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Kate McClymont, chief investigative reporter at The Sydney Morning Herald to break down the arrest, what we know, and what we can expect will happen next. Note: Following the publishing of this episode, police have added two extra charges on Alan Jones, who is now accused of indecency against nine alleged victims over nearly 20 years. The former broadcaster faces 26 charges including indecent assault and sexual touching - some involving victims under his professional authority. Jones' lawyer insists he’ll fight the allegations. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

29-year-old radio producer Thomas Denham has always suspected he’s autistic. But how can he be sure? In this five-part special series of The Briefing, we team up with Autism Awareness Australia and Sydney University's Brain and Mind Centre to walk alongside Thomas as he discovers what the autism spectrum is, and if, and where, he might fit. In this episode, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Professor Adam Guastella from the Brain and Mind Centre to find out what autism is, what common traits people with autism display and what someone ought to do if they feel they, or someone they know, shows some of those signs. Nicole Rogerson, founding CEO and director of Autism Awareness Australia also talks us through what an autism diagnosis can mean for the families and friends involved. You can find the Brain and Mind Centre here, and Autism Awareness Australia's resources in recognising autism here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Certain Australian businesses to be forced to accept cash payments, Joe Biden lifts ban on Ukraine using US missiles to strike inside Russia, PM won’t detail emissions plans until next year and Kamala Harris’ Uber Eats bill revealed. Deep Dive: After a very mixed year, the world’s best-known cryptocurrency, Bitcoin, is surging in value. What exactly is going on with crypto right now? Can the current surge continue? And how should you think about the risks and rewards of an asset that’s made a lot of people very rich, but made a lot of others lose, and lose big? On this episode of The Briefing, we hear from two experts on cryptocurrency to help us understand the wild world of crypto and where it’s at right now. Bension Siebert speaks with Bryce Leske from Equity Mates Media and Dr Cynthia Cai, senior lecturer at Macquarie University’s Department of Applied Finance. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian citizens living in the United States who aren't supportive of a Trump presidency are considering their options to leave the country. Last week, The Briefing brought you the stories of three Australians living in US swing states, who shared how they were feeling in the leadup to the US election. With Donald Trump now officially taking the top job, one of those Australians, Chris Mead, is planning her exit strategy. She joins Bension Siebert again on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the difficult decisions she and her family are planning to make following the result of the US election. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ben Shewry is one of Australia’s top chefs who’s behind the world renowned restaurant Attica. He started working at a local restaurant in New Zealand at just 10 years old after sending out letters pleading his case to become a chef. In his new memoir, Uses For Obsession, Shewry exposes the misogyny, harassment, and toxic culture ingrained in hospitality. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Ben reveals why he wrote a whole chapter on hot chips and how one of the most telling things about a person is the way they treat waitstaff. Weekend List TO TRY: Airyday Skinscreens Mineral SPF50+ TO WATCH: Rivals on Disney+ TO WATCH: Yellowstone season 5 on Stan TO LISTEN: Off Menu podcast ep with Sebastian Stan Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This weekend legendary boxer Mike Tyson is stepping into the ring with Youtuber-turned-influencer-turned-boxer Jake Paul. The fight is being held at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas – but for those who can’t make it in person, the event is set to be broadcast live on Netflix – a first for the streaming service. It's been postponed, hyped, and hated – and will be making a massive amount of money for those involved. Is this about to be the event of the century? Or is an almost 60-year-old former boxing champion fighting an influencer a sad state of affairs for the once-glorious sport of boxing? In this episode of The Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Combat Sports Journalist at The Daily Telegraph and Code Sports Brendan Bradford to unpack what he thinks of the whole affair. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Labor looks to crack down on billionaires in Aussie elections, fears of a trade war overshadow APEC summit and Aussie scientists invent possible solution for fatbergs. Deep Dive: The federal government has introduced a world-first plan to ban kids younger than 16 from accessing social media. Depending on who you ask, it's either an election-winning policy that addresses the anxieties of mums and dads across the country - or a poorly thought out, privacy-stealing power grab. The ban has received bipartisan support from the government - so what's the big deal if it comes into law? In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou unpacks what the ban will mean with 17-year-old Leo Puglisi, founder of 6News, tech and political commentator Stilgherrian, and Libertarian MP David Limbrick. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Over the past 48 hours, Elon Musk and more than a dozen high-profile loyalists have been picked for key jobs in incoming president Donald Trump's administration. Every new name has made international headlines, and offers a valuable insight into how Trump plans to shape America and the world when he returns to the White House in January. On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert break down the key names announced so far, and what you need to know about them. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Trump and Biden meet at the White House, new duty of care laws for social media companies, High Court rules a Catholic diocese not liable for abuse and two Aussie cities rank in the top ten in the world for the cleanest air. Deep Dive: Corporations shape our world and while they can drive economies, they also have considerable influence over our environment and society. One way some businesses try to leave a positive mark is through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). The United Nations and the Australian Human Rights Commission champion CSR’s potential, but not everyone is buying in. Employment lawyer Josh Bornstein argues that it might be nothing more than a façade. Josh joins Chris Spyrou on this episode of The Briefing to share why he believes CSR is nothing more than a marketing tool that distracts from real accountability. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve all heard of sniffer dogs, but what about sniffer rats? Did you know there’s a program that is training and using the critters to hunt down materials being used in the illegal wildlife trade in Africa? In this episode of The Briefing Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Kate Webb, who helped launch the project, to learn more about this amazing initiative and plans for the future of detection rats. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Decision on Trump’s hush money case delayed again, Anglican church’s global leader resigns over child sexual abuse scandal, Parents and principals urged to help with social media ban, and CHOICE names the worst Australian products and services of the year. Deep Dive: As delegates from more than 200 countries meet to negotiate the future of global climate action this week at COP29, US president-elect and climate change denier Donald Trump is casting a long shadow. The world’s scientists say the window to avert the worst of the climate crisis is closing fast. So does four more years of Trump mean we’re basically doomed? Dr. Wesley Morgan is a research associate with the Institute for Climate Risk and Response at the University of New South Wales and a fellow with the Climate Council of Australia. He tells Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing that, in his view, there’s lots to feel hopeful about. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New statistics out from Lifeline this week have revealed a surge in contacts made to the crisis line in 2024. More than 110 thousand calls for help have been made to the helpline since January with money worries dominating conversations, with October 7th was the busiest day of the year. We’re told all the time to reach out to Lifeline if we need help, but what is it actually like to call a mental health crisis line? What do you talk about? What sort of help can they offer? And will it actually make a difference? On today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with Michael, someone who has been there, to find out. We’ve withheld Michael’s full name for privacy reasons. Lifeline 13 11 14Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Labor admits there’s more work to do on cost of living, Trump makes more appointments, three in five Aussie renters never expect to own a home, police escort for Adelaide elephant and your thoughts on free uni and 4B! Deep Dive: Is your boss spying on you right now? Last month, Woolworths was under fire for its practice of intensely monitoring the productivity of some of its workers, reportedly using technology and algorithms to assess their minute-by-minute productivity. We’ve heard similar criticisms of retail giant Amazon and rideshare giant Uber – but what you might not know is that office workers are far from safe from this kind of intrusive surveillance. So-called ‘bossware’, software that monitors and reports employee performance using tools such as mouse tracking and web browsing surveilling, are becoming more common. So how are you being spied on right now? Peter Holland is a professor of human resource management from Swinburne University. He joins Benion Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack how it all works. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the days since Donald Trump won the US election, you might’ve seen the term ‘4B’ gaining traction on social media. Born in South Korea, 4B is a feminist movement in response to strictly held gender roles in the country that sees women swearing off men altogether. With this new political reality, will 4B find its way into Western society? And what would that actually look like? Earlier this year The Briefing spoke with Su-Kyoung Hwang, a Senior Lecturer in Korean Studies at the University of Sydney, to unpack the movement as it gained vitality in the region. In case you missed it, listen back as she takes Sacha Barbour Gatt through 4B and why it is so popular in South Korea, as the movement goes viral in the US. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Trump sweeps all battleground states, EV sales drop across Australia and a massive weekend in Aussie sport. Deep Dive: Student debt reforms are leading the Albanese government's 2025 election promises. The key changes would reduce existing student debt by 20% and raise the income threshold for repayments. However, some say these measures don't go far enough, with calls for free higher education back in the spotlight. In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou digs into these proposals, asking what they mean for students, graduates, and the broader economy. Joined by ANU Professor Andrew Norton and The Motley Fool Australia's Chief Investment Officer, Scott Phillips - we explore whether these reforms are a step forward and whether Australia's economy and tax system could handle making higher education free. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mel Buttle is one of Australia’s favourite comedians and self-declared number one fan of the Matildas. You might recognise her as the creator behind Australia's favourite online mum character 'Lyn' or from the latest season of Taskmaster. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Mel opens up about her struggles with severe bullying, ongoing homophobia, and feeling rejected by her wife’s family at what should be a time of blissful newlywed joy. Mel is currently touring her hit comedy show Not Here to Put Socks on Centipedes after sell-out performances at Melbourne International Comedy Festival, Sydney and Brisbane Comedy Festivals. Weekend List TO WATCH: Joan on Stan TO TRY: McoBeauty fragrance mist salted caramel & pistachio TO TRY: Tell Her She's Dreamin': A memoir for ambitious girls by Simone Amelia Jordan TO WATCH: Chicken Shop date with Amelia Dimoldenberg and Andrew Garfield Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most Australians agree that consent is key to healthy sexual experiences. But what does consent mean? What does it look like in action? Before we can talk to our kids about consent, we need to talk to each other. In this special series, made in partnership with the Australian federal government as part of its Consent Can’t Wait campaign, The Briefing invites iconic Australians to unpack how they feel about consent, what their understanding of it is, how they're having conversations about it with loved ones, and unpacking some of the myths about consent that we can all fall victim to. In part four, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Jude Bolton, cohost of Triple M's Rush Hour in Sydney and former Sydney Swan, and author and Founder of Teach Us Consent Chanel Contos to hear their thoughts on consent in 2024. Check out your understanding of consent, and get help learning how to talk about the topic at Consent.gov.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bonnie Blue has been making nation headlines around her plan to invite quote un quote “barley legal” young men attending schoolies on the gold coast to have sex and film it for content on her wildly popular only fans account Harrison James is one of many who thinks Bonnie’s actions are exploitative. He’s a survivor of sexual violence and now works as an activist speaking to consent, sexual violence and the safety of children and young people. On this episode of the Briefing Helen Smith is joined by Harrison to explain why he called the hotel Bonnie Blue is planning to stay during schoolies and if her visa should be cancelled. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Joe Biden’s first address since Trump win, Optus fined $12 million for outage, National Cabinet meeting today to consider social media ban and Australia’s biggest frog count gets underway! Deep dive: Bonnie Blue is a 25-year-old Only Fans creator inviting “barely legal” young men attending schoolies on the Gold Coast to have sex and film it for content, sparking a serious and complex debate about consent. Bonnie stresses that those involved must be over 18, have an ID with them, sign two consent forms and take a breathalyser test, but there are calls for her visa to be cancelled. On this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by the adult content creator to share her justifications for her Schoolies plan and what she thinks of people calling her a predator. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does Donald Trump returning to the White House mean for Australia? One man with a deep insight into this question is former Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, who Trump in during his first term. Speaking with the Briefing’s Bension Siebert, Turnbull gives his advice on how current PM Anthony Albanese should deal with him, reveals what Trump is like behind closed doors, and explains what Trump 2.0 means for Australia’s next election, our economy and the world. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump is the 47th President of the United States. While it will take days to finalise the vote count, the Republican nominee currently holds 292 electoral votes to Kamala Harris’ 224. He is also on track to win the national popular vote. It's being lauded by key Republicans as "the greatest political comeback in the history of America." But how will another Trump presidency impact global conflicts, immigration, women's rights and conversations around climate change? In this special episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Chris Spyrou walk you through what you need to know. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The results have been streaming in as voters deliver their verdict on Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, as they battle to become the next president of the United States. Trump and Harris have been doing everything possible up until the final moments urging people to get out and vote. Meanwhile, there have been bomb threats in the key swing states of Pennsylvania, Georgia and Arizona, and fake FBI accounts online have been calling the integrity of the vote into question, and been wild weather in various places - from heavy rain across several states, to snow, to the threat of wildfires in California. When can we possibly expect to learn who will be the next president of the United States? To take us through the day’s drama, and what we can take from the results so far, Bension Siebert is joined by journalist Dave Levinthal live from the ground in Washington DC to bring you the latest. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Voting is underway in the US election, WA Premier fails to disclose Qantas Chairman’s Lounge membership, Prince William and Robert Irwin team up for the environment and 87% of Briefers said they weren’t participating in Melbourne Cup day. Deep Dive: Politicians and their free memberships to the Qantas Chairman's Lounge have been in the news all this week. But what actually goes on inside these luxurious spaces, and where is the line between reasonable luxuries for high-level politicians and potentially corrupting influence? On this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Joe Aston, journalist and author of The Chairman’s Lounge, which kicked off the scandal. We also hear from Independent Senator David Pocock on why he gave up his membership – and why he accepted it in the first place. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US election might look batshit crazy from afar – but what does it feel like if you’re witnessing the madness unfold live on the ground? On this episode of the Briefing, we take you away from the polls, campaigns and the candidates, and into the homes of three different Australians living in US battleground states right now. Each of their lives will be directly affected by the outcome. As millions cast their ballots across the US to choose the next President of the United States tomorrow, what do they think of being a part of this moment in history? Bension Siebert finds out. This is part of The Briefing’s US election special – catch up on part one, where we explain the Electoral College and how you become President, here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Kamala Harris promises to end the war in Gaza, Independent MPs hand back their Qantas memberships, Australia's first commercial rocket to launch into space and tributes flow for Quincy Jones. Deep Dive: Should we still be racing horses? As the warmer spring weather rolls in, it also brings on a major series of events in the country’s sporting calendar – the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival, and most notably, the Melbourne Cup. While horse racing is a year-wide event, the Melbourne Cup inevitably spotlights the increasingly contentious issue of whether we should be racing horses at all. This Melbourne Cup Day, The Briefing brings you both sides of the debate, so you can make up your own mind. Helen Smith is joined by Katherine Coleman, assistant trainer at Moody Racing, and MP Georgie Purcell, Australian politician and member of the Animal Justice Party, to ask what they both want you to know about the horse racing industry in Australia today. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The race for the White House is almost over - but how does it all work again? This week, millions of Americans will cast their vote in the country’s election. The result will be historical and is likely to shape democracy for the US and the world. Before the counting begins, The Briefing brings you the first part of this week’s special US election coverage. Today, Chris Spyrou is joined by Matt Bevan, host of ABC's If You’re Listening, to explain everything you need to know about the Electoral College, voting in the states, and how this political system, that is very different from our own, works. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Kamala Harris’ SNL appearance may have violated TV political rules, Anthony Albanese’s promise to young voters and Sydney hosts the world premiere of Wicked. Deep Dive: A network of volunteer doctors in Australia are stepping up to provide free medical care for Palestinians who have fled Gaza. From performing surgeries on patients with amputated limbs to treating chronic illness, they are stepping in where the government has fallen short, in part due to visas provided for those fleeing not allowing access to healthcare. One of these doctors is Dr Mohamed Amr. He is the co-founder of the Palestinian Australian New Zealand Medical Association (PANZMA). In this exclusive conversation, he joins Antoinette Lattouf in this episode of The Briefing to talk about PANZMA’s work, the devastating suffering he’s witnessed, the hope his work is providing to those in need, and what more he wants the government to do. Despite repeated inquiries from The Briefing, DFAT has failed to disclose how many Palestinian refugees are granted access to healthcare or provide a comparison of the visa types granted to Israeli and Ukrainian refugees. In stark contrast to the comprehensive support extended to Ukrainians escaping violence, the majority of the 1,300 Palestinian patients are only on visitor visas. These visas strip them of the right to access health benefits, study, or work, leaving them unable to secure even the most basic medical care. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Craig Foster is a massive overachiever. He was Australia’s 40th Socceroos captain, he’s been appointed a Member of the Order of Australia and is a fierce human rights advocate. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Craig reveals why he declined an invitation to meet the King, what his nightmare blunt rotation is and how he chooses what human rights causes to champion. Weekend List TO LISTEN: Coldplay We Pray TO WATCH: The Office Australia on Amazon Prime TO TRY: Vaseline eye mask DON’T WATCH: Lonely Planet on Netflix Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most Australians agree that consent is key to healthy sexual experiences. But what does consent mean? What does it look like in action? Before we can talk to our kids about consent, we need to talk to each other. In this special series, made in partnership with the Australian federal government as part of its Consent Can’t Wait campaign, The Briefing invites iconic Australians to unpack how they feel about consent, what their understanding of it is, how they're having conversations about it with loved ones, and unpacking some of the myths about consent that we can all fall victim to. In part three, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Jess Rowe, accomplished journalist, author, public speaker and host of LiSTNR's The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show, and author and Founder of Teach Us Consent Chanel Contos to hear their thoughts on consent in 2024. Check out your understanding of consent, and get help learning how to talk about the topic at Consent.gov.au. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Over 1000 large companies didn’t pay tax in Australia last year, 60 million Americans have already voted, and Russia has fined Google more money than there is in the entire world. Deep Dive: Is it possible that there’s a serial killer wreaking havoc along the NSW coast? That’s the question that’s been raised by Jeremy Buckingham, Legalise Cannabis Party MP and member of NSW legislative council. In an impassioned address to parliament, the MP made the case for the state to take a serious look at 67 missing or murdered women along the NSW north coast between 1977 and 2009. But is this callout alarmist? Do these accusations risk opening old wounds for the hundreds of friends and family linked to each disappearance and death? On this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt unpacks the claims, and asks the MP why he’s chosen to raise this issue now. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Do you know what to do if a snake bites you? Snake season is upon us, and Australia is living up to its international reputation for alarming wildlife in unexpected places. An unusually high number of snakes are being spotted in suburban homes in Australia right now – so if you come into contact with one over the coming months, what should you do? And if you’re bitten, what’s the steps you need to take to ensure your survival? On this episode of the Briefing Bension Siebert speaks to snake handler Mark Pelley about his own life-threatening experience of getting bitten by a tiger snake, why there are so many snakes around right now, and what to do if you come across one – or if you or a pet is bitten. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Anthony Albanese says he never called Alan Joyce for flight upgrades, UN Security Council warns Israel against banning UNRWA, and Harris and Biden walk back ‘garbage’ comments. Deep Dive: Are Australia’s mortgage wars back? After a period of corporate coordination, banks have started making moves and competing hard for your money – happy news for mortgage holders, and people hoping to enter the property market alike. But will things get better, or is this just a temporary reprieve? And who should you listen to if you're unsure of what to do? On this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith speaks with Alec Renehan from Equity Mates to find out what that means for anyone with a mortgage and how long he expects the fighting to last. The information in this podcast is for general information only. It should not be taken as constituting professional advice, and your financial circumstances might be different and have different needs. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A long-awaited and lengthy report by an inquiry looking into Australia’s COVID response was handed down yesterday. It found that while state and federal governments nailed the early response to the threat of the virus, tough restrictions, poor communication and a lack of consideration of our human rights eroded public confidence and trust. On today’s episode of The Briefing, we’re digging deeper into how Aussies feel now about politicians and the government, and whether it puts us in danger should we face a pandemic again. Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with CEO of Public Health Association of Australia, Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin to hear if he thinks we can repair what has been lost.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Key takeaways from Australia’s first COVID response inquiry, 90% of federal pollies are members of Qantas’ Chairman’s Lounge and 50 Cent knocked back $3 million USD to perform at Trump's New York rally. Deep Dive: Would you take MDMA to help your mental health? In this two-part special, The Briefing is taking an exclusive step into one of the only clinics in Australia offering MDMA-assisted therapy to help treat those experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - with some astonishing results. What actually happens to you when you take what is usually known as a party drug during a therapy session? In part two, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with *Kate, a patient at the Pax Centre who has undertaken MDMA-assisted therapy to treat her PSTD and shares how the treatment gave her a sense of peace “she’s never experienced before”. Listen to part one here. Lifeline 13 11 14 *Not her real name for privacy purposes Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Youth crime has been in the spotlight nationally in recent years, with stories of teenage offenders dominating mainstream news bulletins. It’s sparked a groundswell of support for political parties that are promising to be tough on the issue, and it’s worked, with the Liberals having decisive wins in the Northern Territory and Queensland in recent weeks. With promises of locking up kids at younger ages, enforcing adult time for adult crimes and even looking at periods of solitary confinement for teen offenders; do these politicians have it right? In today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speak with lecturer in criminology, Dr Joel McGregor from Swinburne University, to discuss the changing conversation around young criminals. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: The fallout from Donald Trump’s Madison Square Garden rally, calls grow for Senate inquiry into Albanese-Joyce relationship, NATO confirms North Korean troops deployed in Russia and a new survey reveals the sexual diversity of Aussie students. Deep Dive: Today, The Briefing is doing MDMA. In this two-part special, we take an exclusive step into one of the only clinics in Australia offering MDMA-assisted therapy to help treat those experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) - with some astonishing results. How exactly does a drug most would traditionally associate with the party scene help those suffering through a mental health crisis? And why can it work in place of other, more traditional treatments? In part one, Bension Siebert and Sacha Barbour Gatt speak with Co‑founders of the Pax Centre, Dr Jonathan Laugharne and Claire Kullack, to explore why the treatment they’re providing can offer such a profound breakthrough for people’s mental health. Lifeline 13 11 14 Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Moving mountains isn’t meant to be an easy feat. But did you know that mountains can, and are currently, getting taller? It's true – and researchers have found Mount Everest is one mountain which makes that list. The mountain has risen an extra 15 to 50 meters over the last 89,000 years. This works out to be around 2 millimeters per year – which might not sound like much. But what impact could this have on its surroundings over the years? And how does it happen? Mark Quigley is an Associate Professor of Earthquake Science at the University of Melbourne. He joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: David Crisafulli claims victory for LNP in Queensland, Anthony Albanese defends Qantas upgrades, US politics wrap and American Airlines are trialling new tech to bust line cutters at airport gates. Deep Dive: Since Israel’s assault on Lebanon has escalated, schoolteacher Nahed Mawassi and her daughter Zainab have been anxiously clinging to hope for their family’s safety, while enduring anguish from afar in Australia. Then came the unthinkable news via WhatsApp. Without any warning, the Israeli Defense Forces bombed a residential building in Aitou, a Christian-majority town over 120 kilometers from the Israeli border. The building was a temporary home to four generations of their closest relatives. In an instant, 18 family members – displaced from southern Lebanon a year prior – were killed. Among the victims were a 6-month-old baby and a 95-year-old great-grandmother. In this exclusive episode of The Briefing, Nahed and Zainab speak with Antoinette Lattouf, sharing their devastation. They call on the Australian government to urgently grant humanitarian visas for four surviving relatives, miraculously pulled from the rubble, and have a stark message to the Albanese government on the impact of the devastation on a quarter of a million Lebanese Australians. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcastYouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lucy Jackson and Nikki Westcott first meet as grid girls and connected immediately, but little did they know their friendship would turn into one of the most popular podcasts in Australia. The duo is behind the podcast Happy Hour, where they chat about everything from relationships, to sex, running a fashion brand and being a woman in your 30s. Lucy and Nikki have described their friendship together as like a marriage and when they started their fashion label Jagger & Stone back in 2018, they only became more intertwined. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Lucy and Nikki explain why being in your 30s is better than your 20s and how they balance being business partners and besties. Weekend List TO DO: Breathwork workshop TO WATCH: Inside Out 2 on Disney Plus TO READ: The Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros TO WATCH: Deadloch on Amazon Prime Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most Australians agree that consent is key to healthy sexual experiences. But what does consent mean? What does it look like in action? Before we can talk to our kids about consent, we need to talk to each other. In this special series, made in partnership with the Australian federal government as part of its Consent Can’t Wait campaign, The Briefing invites iconic Australians to unpack how they feel about consent, what their understanding of it is, how they're having conversations about it with loved ones, and unpacking some of the myths about consent that we can all fall victim to. In part two, Bension Siebert is joined by Matt Okine, comedian, author and host of Matt & Alex - All Day Breakfast, and ambassador and youth advocate Daniel Principe to hear their thoughts on consent in 2024. Check out your understanding of consent, and get help learning how to talk about the topic at Consent.gov.au.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Australia in spat with China over racism and climate change, BRICS leaders call for ceasefire, Revelations about Rudd and Gillard deal in new political memoir, and what are the top Halloween costumes for 2024 according to Google? Deep Dive: Israel claims the number of people killed in Gaza – the steadily rising and horrific number we hear on the news just about every day – is inflated. Others say true number of people killed is far more than what’s being reported. On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert speaks with Professor Michael Spagat, chair of Every Casualty Counts, who explains how deaths in Gaza and other active warzones are verified. He makes a passionate case for acknowledging the individual humanity of everyone who dies in war, rather than thinking of them as a number on a page. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcastYouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Senator Lidia Thorpe made international headlines when she shouted at King Charles, rejecting the monarch’s sovereignty and accusing him of genocide, in Parliament House this week. The Gurnai Gunditjmara and Djab-Wurrung woman has since claimed she did not really swear allegiance to the late Queen Elizabeth’s heirs, as in King Charles, but to the Queens’ “hairs”. Senator Thorpe has rejected calls for her to resign after she disavowed – however absurdly – her oath of office. But several real questions remain: What does the Constitution have to say about all this? Can Senator Thorpe be forced from parliament? Is it fair to ask a First Nations person to pledge allegiance to the monarchy? What about all those MPs that want Australia to become a republic? On this episode of the Briefing, Bension Siebert dives into all of these questions with Luke Beck, Professor of Constitutional Law at Monash University. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcastYouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Lidia Thorpe says she didn’t swear allegiance to the King, terrorist attack in Turkey leaves four dead, Xi and Modi hold first formal talks in five years, Coles and Woolies deny tricking customers with dodgy sales, and the sun has hit peak solar energy! Deep dive: International intelligence last week revealed North Korea had sent between 10,000 and 30,000 of its own troops to Russia, to bolster its invasion of Ukraine. Ukraine’s president says this signals the start of a world war, but is that true? And what does this new development mean for the conflict and international relations? In today’s episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with geopolitical expert Dr Keith Suter to find out. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sometimes, what happens in one part of Australia says lot about the direction of the country as a whole. Right now, that’s exactly what seems to be happening in Queensland, as the state’s voters head to the polls this weekend. Will the state be the latest in a swing towards more conservative politics in Australia? Archie Milligan is a LiSTNR journalist based in Queensland. He joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing, as Labor vies for a fourth term in government, and we ask how the results might impact the rest of the country. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Headlines: Royals wrap up Australian tour, over 20 world leaders meet with Putin at BRICS summit, former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO arrested on sex trafficking charges, the Murray River named in a global top travel list, and a Cockatoo has been rescued from a Sydney Coles after a month trapped inside. Deep dive: Few crimes in Australia in recent years have been as shocking as the murder of Bruce Saunders, who was fed into a woodchipper on a property north of Brisbane in 2017. A new LiSTNR exclusive investigative podcast, released today, has uncovered details about the woman behind the death, Sharon Graham, including how she convinced a man to kill Saunders, and another to help in the coverup. How did she become the kind of person capable of such a crime? Were there signs this was going to happen and did anyone miss them? Tara Cassidy is a journalist and host of Crime In Focus: Killer Charm. She joins Bension Siebert on this episode of The Briefing to unpack the story behind this new investigative podcast series, and how reporting on it has impacted those touched by the death of Bruce Saunders. Listen to Crime In Focus: Killer Charm exclusively on the LiSTNR app, click here: https://play.listnr.com/podcast/crime-in-focus/episode/01-the-accident-killer-charm Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.