The Briefing

US President Joe Biden has mistakenly introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as “President Putin” on stage at the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) summit, at a ceremony marking the signing of a security agreement for Ukraine. The gaffe came after what was meant to be a rousing speech from Biden on NATO’s enduring support for Ukraine in it’s war with Russia. It was a bad start to a day that might make or break his political career, as he also followed the NATO summit by facing his first press conference with live questions from journalists in several months. Is this the final straw for Joe Biden's campaign, or will he continue to fight for the chance to beat Donald Trump at the election in November? Matt Bevan, Journalist and host of America, If You’re Listening, joined Bension Siebert on The Briefing to give us his verdict. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tibet’s highest religious leader, the Dalai Lama, has just celebrated his 89th birthday. And though he’s prophesied that he’ll live to 111, questions are being asked about what his succession plan will be. And considering Tibet’s struggle of control and independence against China, who replaces him will have large consequences for many people. But given the Buddhist belief that the Dalai Lama will be reincarnated, how will we know where his replacement will be found? Could they be here in Australia? Or is there a chance that the current Dalai Lama could be the last? In this episode, The Briefing’s Simon Beaton speaks with Tibetan Buddhism expert John Powers to find out. Headlines: Australian couple found dead in luxury hotel in the Philippines NATO summit in Washington is wrapping up today Shelly Duvall dies Aussie CEOs made less in 2023/24 Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia is getting its very first national prison newspaper – About Time. It's aim is to be distributed to every prison cell in the country, and it's publishers will focus on issues that affect incarcerated people – including changes to criminal laws and the justice system, new cases that affect prisoner's rights, new policies and procedures inside prisons – alongside prisoners lives, hopes and dreams. In this episode of The Briefing, the paper’s managing director and publisher Joseph Friedman joins Bension Siebert to find out why he thinks prisoners should have a voice, and what he hopes the paper can achieve. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world watched as earlier this year footage of students across the world mobilised to protest against Israel’s ongoing killing of defenceless Palestinian citizens, particularly children. Longstanding encampments were established at university campuses across America and here in Australia, popping up across Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane and Melbourne. Students at Melbourne University staged a sit-in and encampment in a campus building, refusing to leave until university leadership agreed it would disclose any links to weapons manufacturers who may be providing weapons being used by the Israeli Defence Force. Since the sit-in's end, students who participated have reported being asked to attend disciplinary hearings for their conduct during the protests, with WiFi data and CCTV footage of them on campus being used as evidence of their participation. Kareem Zaghlool is a postgraduate medical student nearing the end of his degree and Zara Chauvin Cunningham is a second-year science student and is also Jewish. In this exclusive episode of The Briefing, Antoinette Lattouf sits down with the two students to find out how they feel about being tracked and spied on, despite the university pledging it wouldn’t use tech to track them. The Briefing contacted the Victorian Information Commissioner and the University of Melbourne for comment for this story, who provided the following statements: Sean Morrison, Victorian Information Commissioner: “The OVIC is making preliminary enquiries with University of Melbourne regarding this matter. This information will assist OVIC in assessing whether or not an investigation proceeds. It would not be appropriate for OVIC to provide further comment given the preliminary nature of its involvement. OVIC is unlikely to comment on where matters do not proceed from a preliminary inquiry to an investigation.” A University of Melbourne spokesperson said: “The University is currently progressing a range of matters in relation to student conduct. We will not be commenting on individual matters, in line with our confidentiality requirements and our commitment to procedural fairness under University policy. The University is in direct communication with individuals as required in relation to these matters.” Regarding peaceful protests, Professor Nicola Phillips, Provost said: “Freedom of speech is foundational to our values and policies at the University of Melbourne. We have consistently stated that we recognise the right of students and staff to participate in peaceful protest.” Headlines: Further pressure for Biden to drop out of presidential race Meth, cocaine and nicotine at record highs around Australia De Minaur pulls out of Wimbledon, with Olympics now uncertain Kirsha Kaechele reveals the MONA Picasso’s are fakes painted by her Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every generation thinks they have it tougher than their predecessors. But arguably, 30-year-olds in Australia right now actually do. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by Russel Howcroft, a 59-year-old businessman you may recognise from the ABC TV show The Gruen Transfer, to explain why he thinks we need to talk about why millennials really do have it tough. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NDIS Minister Bill Shorten has promised to ban funding sex work services for people with disability under the national disability insurance scheme. However, the promise has been met with backlash from advocates saying that sexual intimacy is a human right with the the federal court deeming the funding reasonable and necessary just four years ago. Bension Siebert is joined by Oliver Morton-Evans, who has cerebral palsy and has himself used paid sex work to help him experience sexual intimacy, to explain why sex work services are important for people under the NDIS, and why his work with Touching Base is so important. Headlines: New report shows 1 in 5 Aussies have committed sexual violence Distressing CCTV footage of police repeatedly striking an Indigenous teenager has been revealed Jillian Segel AO appointed to combat antisemitism Australia accuses Chinese spy agency of cyber attacks Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

French voters have stunned the world by turning their back on the country’s far-right in an election result few saw coming. France's left-wing parties formed a coalition and is projected to win the second round of a parliamentary election - beating the far-right. President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist bloc appears to have held up quite well. However, no group looks set for a majority. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Dr Romain Fathi from ANU to talk through the global implications of France’s stunning election result, and what it means for the future of President Macron and his far-right nemesis, Marine Le Pen. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The war in the Middle East continues to impact hundreds of thousands of innocent people, with Save The Children now estimating more than 21,000 children are missing in the wake of the conflict. Many are trapped beneath rubble, detained, buried in unmarked graves, or lost from their families. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Save The Children’s Head of Humanitarian Policy and Advocacy, Alexandra Saieh, to find out what needs to happen to protect children in Gaza, and why the world is seemingly oblivious to the worsening crisis. Headlines: Children's hospital in Ukraine bombed Three-day curfew underway in Alice Springs Joe Biden challenges other Democratic candidates to step up Alex De Minaur makes Wimbledon quarterfinals Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dupes are the new copycat trend. From cosmetics to accessories, electronics, homeware and even motor cars, for every high quality product with a big price tag on the market, there seems to be a cheap alternative ready to go. But how are these companies making dupes get away with it? And what can the owners of the original product do to protect their intellectual property? Thomson Geer Lawyers Marlia Saunders, who specialises in intellectual property law joined Helen Smith on The Briefing to explain. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Artificial intelligence is seeping into every aspect of our lives, so it was only a matter of time before it coupled with the porn industry – and the result is a growing number of AI porn image generators. Sites like Clothoff and Dessi produce fake porn imagers using pictures supplied by users. Victims find themselves powerless to combat the sites, often hosted by servers in far off countries. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Professor Nicola Henry from the Social and Global Studies Centre, RMIT University to find out who is behind the sites and why governments are powerless to do anything about them. Headlines: Sydney house fire allegedly linked to DV France's far-right party looks failed in bid to form government Biden continues attempts to convince Americans ahead of election John Cena announces retirement in WWE Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Far-right political commentator, Tucker Carlson, is known for pushing extreme views on social and political issues, conspiracy theories and a strong stance against immigration. Recently, Clive Palmer’s mining company Mineralogy brought Carlson over to Australia as part of The Australian Freedom Conferences, visiting several major cities on a speaking tour. While in Sydney, two LiSTNR journalists attended, to find out what would be up for discussion, and to learn more about the Australians who identify with Tucker Carlson’s ultra-conservative beliefs. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Poh Ling Yeow is proof that second place doesn’t always have to suck. Joining MasterChef as a contestant in 2009 now 15 years later she’s gracing the screens as a judge, with the new panel of faces joining in the wake of the tragic death of former judge Jock Zonfrillo. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Poh shares the challenges of being a woman in the public eye and her hidden phobia of eating in front of other people. WEEKEND LIST TO WATCH - American’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders on Netflix TO DO - Aussie Bro Squad call out on TikTok TO EAT - Plunger coffee and Honest to Goodness coffee TO WATCH - I Am: Celine Dion on Amazon Prime Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast! Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Conservative Party have ruled the UK for the past 14 years – but it hasn’t been smooth sailing with 5 different Prime Ministers occupying 10 Downing Street in just the last 8 years. At the end of May, the current leader of the Tory party, Rishi Sunak called an election. The Labour Party, led by Keir Starmer had been picked to take the biggest win in nearly 200 years. So has that happened? And what will this new government mean for the UK’s future? Joining us to unpack what we know of the results, is The Briefing’s former Senior Producer, Eleanor Harrison-Dengate, who is currently on the ground in the UK. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since Peter Dutton’s announcement on the Liberal party’s intention to go nuclear, there has been fierce debate on if it will work and if the Australian public should commit to it. But what are the plain and simple facts on nuclear? On this episode, we help you out with Sacha Barbour Gatt and Bension Siebert providing a quick explainer about nuclear energy - using fact-checked info without the political spin. Sources: US Energy Information Administration <here> CSIRO GenCost report <here>International Energy Forum <here> Headlines: UK election underway, Labour poised for a “supermajority” Labor reacts to Fatima Payman’s resignation Joe Biden admits he “screwed up” debate Nine-year-old chess prodigy is the youngest person to represent England internationally in any sport Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“With a heavy heart but a clear conscience, I announce my resignation from the Australian Labor Party. I have informed the Prime Minister that, effective immediately, I will sit on the crossbench to represent Western Australia”. That’s the statement from Western Australian Senator Fatima Payman, announcing today at a press conference at Parliament House that she has made the decision to leave the Labor Party. In this episode of The Briefing we’re joined by Kos Samaris, Director of polling group Redbridge Australia, and Australian Financial Review federal politics reporter Tom McIllroy to discuss what it means for the future of the ALP - and the future of Senator Payman.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NASA have announced that the International Space Station is doomed to de-orbit by 2031, and SpaceX are going to help take it down with a contract worth $1.26 billion (AUD). It’s the end of an era – the ISS was for many years a beacon of international cooperation in the final frontier of space. So why is the ISS being decommissioned, will a new station be replacing it, and what does this mean for international space relations in the future? Dr Rebecca Allen, Co-Director of the Space Technology and Industry Institute at Swinburne University of Technology, joined The Briefing to explain. Headlines: White House denies Biden is considering his future Damning ASIC inquiry New research has found what Australian’s are spending their money on Canberra’s night of nights – the Midwinter Ball. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the world’s biggest live entertainment companies, Live Nation, has been hit with a double whammy. It’s being sued by the US Department of Justice following its subsidiary Ticketmaster being targeted by a notorious hacker group affecting 560 million customers worldwide. As a follow-up to our investigation into Australia’s ticket industry, Tessa Randello from the LiSTNR Newsroom joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to break down what is happening at Live Nation and the effect it could have worldwide. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, campaigners for animal rights won a years-long battle to ban the live export of sheep, with the practice to end by 2028 after it was passed in parliament. According to Animals Australia, three million animals have died in live export from Australia ... and that's not to mention what happens to them once they arrive at their destination.On the flipside of that though is the farming communities who rely on the trade for their livelihoods. In today's Briefing, we speak with John Hassell, a WA farmer and the Vice President of the National Farmers Federation to find out what's next for the industry and what farmers wish they could say to inner city folk who are against the practice. Headlines: More than 100 dead in crowd crush at religious event in India Palestinians flee Khan Younis after texts from Israel Donald Trump sentencing delayed Bob Katter portrait in Parliament House Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the first time ever, the American Supreme Court has ruled that former presidents are protected from criminal prosecution for some of what they do in office. Donald Trump is currently facing three criminal cases – and will next week face sentencing for a fourth surrounding the payment of hush money to porn star Stormy Daniels. What does this ruling mean for him, and for future and past presidents of the United States? Journalist and host of the ABC Podcast America, If You're Listening, Matt Bevan, joined Bension Siebert to unpack the decision. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You love where you live and locals are worried the suburb’s about to be ‘gentrified’. It can be a good thing and a bad thing. Great news if you own your home, but not good news if you rent and rents are about to skyrocket. You’ll be forced to move to a suburb further away from your friends, work and social network. In this episode of the Briefing we’re joined by William Thackway, who has worked on a machine learning model to predict gentrification with UNSW City Futures Research Centre. He’ll tell you how to know if your suburb is about to be gentrified. Headlines: Shock Trump ruling Fatima Payman doubles down, accuses colleagues of exiling her Live sheep trade ban passes parliament World’s first millennial saint approved Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you heard of Aussie Bro Squad? The four brothers from regional NSW have made a bit of a name for themselves on TikTok after filming and uploading themselves performing high-energy dance routines. They’re known to “go live” multiple times a day, all filmed by their mum, Beverley, who keeps up a steady stream of commentary from viewers as her sons perform. While it appears innocent, internet sleuths have expressed concerns about the boys' welfare, two of whom are still in school. There are questions about why they’re made to perform on live streams at all hours of the day and night, and who is behind it all. Today, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Archie Milligan from the LiSTNR Newsroom, as we look deeper into the story of the Aussie Bro Squad. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, microphones across Triple M’s 49 radio stations will switch off for the network’s annual No Talk Day, with a goal to create space for listeners to check-in with themselves and their mates. That’s because every day, nine Australians take their own life – and according to Lifeline, on average, seven of those are men. Partnering with Lifeline, Triple M’s goal is to build awareness and encourage fundraising for this vital national service. Now in its sixth year, between 6am and 6pm, Triple M will pause all shows, announcers and ads, along with all news and traffic reports, as a reminder to make mental health a priority and encourage listeners to start a conversation for themselves or with someone they care about. Gus Worland is no stranger to conversations about mental health. He joined Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain why Triple M keeps wanting to draw attention to talking about your mental health, and what he’s learned from the listeners when making space for them to speak. Lifeline 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au/talk Headlines: Fatima Payman suspended indefinitely from the Labor caucus Joe Biden meets with family as pressure mounts on him to stand aside Huge turnout for French elections All the changes coming in today Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jenny Tian admits she is committed to two things in life – making comedy and sleeping.\ When she started to go virial on social media for her comedy skits and stand up shows she never looked back and is now on the big screen. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Jenny reveals some of the weirdest things she’s doing on this season of Australia’s Taskmaster and how she’s preparing for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Book here WEEKEND LIST TO EAT - Raspberry Tourte (DM us on Insta for the full recipe) TO EAT - Easy Za'atar wrap combo TO WATCH - Chicken shop date on YouTube by Amelia Dimoldenberg TO DO - How to save on a gym membership Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast! Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

US President Joe Biden and wannabe second term president Donald Trump faced off in the first presidential debate earlier today, with many expecting it to be a defining moment in the election campaign. We watched as Joe Biden appeared unsure and hesitant, while still landing blows on Trump. We saw Trump continue to attack Biden’s family and legacy. It was gloves off from the outset and at times threatened to turn nasty. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Dave Levinthal, editor-in-chief of Raw Story, to find out who won the debate, and whether either side will claim it has proven they’re the best person to lead the US over the next four years.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last year popular online platforms were also threatened with government regulation unless they improve safety for users, following a spike in reports of threats of violence and abuse. The federal government gave industry until the middle of 2024 to develop and implement a voluntary code of practice to improve standards. But has anything actually moved on the issue since? In this episode of The Briefing Antoinette Lattouf speaks with intimacy and dating app expert Lisa Portolan to see where we’re at with our relationship to dating apps. Headlines: Presidential debate today Sexual assaults at 31-year high Woolies brings in egg-buying limits amid bird flu outbreak Sydney vs Melbourne: who wins according to most liveable cities ranker Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The term ‘enshittification’ was coined by British-Canadian blogger Cory Doctorow at the start of 2023 to describe the decline of social media platforms. It captures the idea that something which was once great eventually becomes crappy overtime due to excessive profit-chasing. The term has broken into the cultural zeitgeist and is now being used to describe everything from major events to clothes, coffee, housing, and everything in between. Recently, disgruntled Sydneysiders used the term to describe this year’s Vivid festival, which they say has deteriorated in the pursuit of making money. So, why does a chunk of the population feel like everything is just a bit shit right now? And is it just capitalism in action? On this episode of The Briefing, expert in 'Uncomfortable Conversations' Josh Szeps joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to explore if everything really is becoming a bit shit. Find Uncomfortable Conversations on YouTube Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Julian Assange is a free man after pleading guilty to one charge of espionage in a federal United States court as part of a plea deal with prosecutors, bringing to end an international saga surrounding war, access to information, freedom of speech and the role of journalism in the digital age. Facing a judge in a US federal court in the remote Northern Mariana Islands, Assange told the court that he “believes the First Amendment and the Espionage Act are in contradiction” and that he was within his rights while working as a journalist when he “encouraged (his) source to provide information that was said to be classified in order to publish that information”. Assange landed on Australian soil late on Wednesday afternoon, bringing the long fight by many for him to be allowed to return home to an end. What will his life look like going forward, and how does his family feel now that he’s returned? Julian’s brother, Gabriel Shipton, joins Sacha Barbour Gatt on The Briefing to share how he feels in this historical moment. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You might not have heard of MrBeast, but chances are the Gen Z’er you share a house, office or gym with has. The 26-year-old content creator from Wichita, Kansas has amassed hundreds of millions of followers and is the most- subscribed-to page on YouTube. He’s best known for putting on his own version of Squid Game – before Netflix did – and sharing hundreds of thousands of dollars in random giveaways. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Justin Hill, entertainment guru and host of The Streaming Service podcast on LiSTNR, to find out who MrBeast is, and why he’s having such a massive global impact. Headlines: Julian Assange is back in Australia Fatima Payman cops caucus suspension after crossing the floor Kenyan government concedes defeat on tax increases after deadly protests Two astronauts are stuck in space Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pills, powders and liquids that might be harbouring deadly substances will be able to be legally tested across Victoria, following a major policy change announced by Premier Jacinta Allan this week. Pill testing will become permanent after an 18-month trial starting this summer, with a mobile service to attend up to 10 music festivals. In Victoria, paramedics responded to more drug overdoses at festivals in the first three months of 2024 than during all of 2023. The announcement is a change from Labor's previous stance against pill testing, and comes alongside the party choosing to not support a second safe drug injecting room in Melbourne’s CBD despite experts' advice saying it would help reduce fatal heroin overdoses in the state. In this episode of The Briefing, Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan joins to explain the reasoning behind the change of heart in the Victorian government, and Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell gives her take on the proposed rollout.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Albanese government has announced sweeping new changes to Australia’s vaping laws, which will see the products continue to be sold – but only in pharmacies. To secure the support of the Greens in the Senate, Labor has agreed to backtrack on its prescription-only model. It means vapes will be made available at pharmacies across the country – but they will be regulated and subject to plain packaging requirements, with flavours limited to mint, menthol or tobacco. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Greens leader Adam Bandt to find out why the Greens negotiated the new laws and what the new regulations mean for vapers and smokers wanting to quit cigarettes. Headlines: Julian Assange will face court at 9am today on a US island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean Senator Fatima Payman crosses the floor Jarryd Hayne won’t face a fourth trial Listeners respond to vaping story Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Julian Assange, the founder of Wikileaks, has agreed to plead guilty to a single felony count in relation to charges over disseminating national security material. The plea deal was in exchange for his release from a British prison, clearing the way for him to return to Australia, and avoiding the need to face charges in the United States. It brings to an end the 14-year ordeal that saw him spend seven years in the Ecuadorian Embassy in London and a further five years in a British prison fighting US attempts to extradite him. In this episode of The Briefing we’re joined by Kym Staton, documentary filmmaker and Director of ‘The Trust Fall: Julian Assange', to find out how and why Assange has finally decided to end his campaign for justice and return home. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bird flu – or Avian flu – has been detected at a number of chicken farms in Victoria and NSW. The discovery comes in the wake of an outbreak in the US and tests that found humans had symptoms associated with bird flu. How safe is Australia’s poultry industry, and how safe are our chickens and eggs to eat? In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Enzo Palombo, Professor of Microbiology at Swinburne University to learn more about how badly our poultry industry will be affected and if humans – like Covid – could be impacted by the growing global crisis. Headlines: Government waters down vape ban Victoria to launch pill testing trial this summer Princess Anne in hospital Picassos hung in ladies toilets at Mona Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Weaponised incompetence is a term that's gaining some traction at the moment. It's a passive-aggressive pattern of behaviour where someone in a relationship, whether it be professional or intimate, either deliberately performs a task poorly or pretends not to know how to do a task in order to avoid responsibility. Imagine the dynamic of person A is able to iron shirts/stack dishwashers/ do spreadsheets so much better than person B - which leads to Person A doing all the work, often reinforcing the unequal division of labour at home and in the office. In this episode of The Briefing, psychologist Jocelyn Brewer shares how it can manifest, and how to tell if you might be an unknowing victim.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tax time is right around the corner and this year the ATO are cracking down on working from home expenses. Last year more than 8 million Australians claimed work- related deductions in their tax return, with working from home expenses making up more than half of those claims. In this episode of the Briefing Ashley Debenham from Etax Accountants joins Katrina Blowers to unpack everything you need to know before you lodge your tax return. Headlines: Tough new penalties coming for supermarkets First poll shows voters split on nuclear Adelaide Westfield sent into lockdown after teen brawl 2024 Logies nominations announced Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s the difference between style and Fashion? Well Victoria Latu can answer that. She was born in a region now considered Ukraine, interviewed all the stars on the red carpet in LA and along the way became a fashion expert. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Victoria unpacks her Kylie Minogue like accent and how she navigated the Australian media landscape a women of colour. WEEKEND LIST TO EAT - Healthy butter chicken with Greek yogurt TO LISTEN - The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess by Chappell Roan TO WATCH - Dancing for the Devil: The 7M TikTok Cult on Netflix TO DO - DIY Gel Nail Kit By Me & Crew Send us your Weekend Briefing suggestions on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcast! Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Women’s basketball would be lucky to rate a mention in America, let alone Australia. Yet that has all changed since Caitlin Clark came along. The 22-year-old is one of the most promising female basketball players in the US, making the transition from college ball to being signed as the number one draft pick for the Indiana Fever this year. However, her popularity hasn’t been without controversy, fuelled by Clark’s entrance as a white player in a predominantly Black sport. In this episode, we’re joined by Cat Lynch from Triple M, who’s been following Clark’s journey and is here to unpack the complexities of her story.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s first visit to North Korea in 24 years has resulted in thesigning of a partnership agreement for mutual aid if either nation is attacked. Apparently encompassing a whole range of areas, including medical education and scientific pursuits, particular emphasis has been placed on military cooperation with speculation that Russia is in dire need of munitions to continue their war against Ukraine. In this episode, we’re joined by Politco’s Zoya Sheftalovich, to find out more about theagreement and just how much Russia are in need of North Korea’s support. Headlines: Questions remain around the Coalition’s nuclear plan. Russia signs deals with Vietnam Climate activists try to vandalise Taylor Swift’s private jet London cinema cancels screening of movie written entirely by AI after hundreds of complaints Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week saw a Labor MP’s office vandalized in Victoria in protest of the party’s inaction surrounding the war in Gaza. The protest has sparked outrage from current and former members of government, who say aggressive protest action is taking things too far. Should protest action be more peaceful, to be more effective? Or is loud and aggressive protest the only way to get wider Australian society to pay attention to major issues surrounding the environment, climate and human rights? In this episode of the Briefing former leader of the Greens and environmentalist Bob Brown joins Bension Siebert to unpack what an effective protest looks like. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Peter Dutton has provided Australians with more detail than ever before with how he plans to make the country enter a nuclear power boom. On Wednesday, the leader of the Opposition announced his plans to build seven nuclear power stations, flagging a major election promise which he hopes will be a “referendum on nuclear energy”. In this episode of The Briefing, Emeritus Professor Ian Lowe from Griffith University breaks down what the promise would mean for Australia’s energy plan. Headlines: Gender Pay Gap in the public sector North Korea and Russia sign mutual aid partnership Shoppers are getting their groceries 25% cheaper at Aldi Peter Dutton reveals the next phase of the Coalition’s nuclear plan Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planning on heading to the slopes this winter? A new study has found climate change could forever change Australia’s ski season, with less snow for fewer days. The traditional season, starting from the June long weekend through to the October long weekend, is 120 days or four months. New research has found due to ongoing changes in our climate the season will be reduced to just 55 days by 2050. In this episode of the Briefing, Sam Quirke from Protect Our Winters joins Katrina Blowers to learn what needs to be done to curb greenhouse gas emissions and save Australia’s season. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Yesterday the Reserve Bank of Australia announced that they were holding the cash rate at 4.35% - the same position since November, 2023. While this decision came as no shock to the majority of economists, it was anticipated that cash rates would be falling by the end of 2024. Is this still the case? To help unpack the details of our current economic situation, Scott Phillips from the Motley Fool joins us on The Briefing. Headlines: Thailand legalises same sex marriage Netanyahu complains about blocked US weapons as Jerry Seinfeld’s Sydney gig is hit by pro-Palestine protestors again Justin Timberlake arrested for driving while intoxicated Maccas to ditch AI ordering system over in the US Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever thought about the physical places where our most sensitive and private digital information is stored? Around Australia lie ultra-secure databases that host everything from your medical records and internet passwords to our governments' records and national secrets. Unsurprisingly, given the sensitive nature of this digital information, most of us will never even know where these data centres are, let alone see inside one. However in this episode, The Briefing will take you right inside a data control centre, and you'll hear from AuCloud CEO Peter Maloney to find out how they keep your data safe from hackers, scammers and foreign intelligence agencies. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China’s long history of panda diplomacy is back in the headlines. Governments trading native animals is nothing new and can form a key part of diplomatic relations, but how did trading pandas become an integral part of China’s foreign policy? In this episode of the Briefing Senior Fellow in the Initiative for U.S-China Dialogue on Global Issues Dennis Wilder joins Sacha Barbour Gatt to explain the political strategies behind the cuddly bears. Headlines: Australia's relationship with China “renewed and revitalised” Virgin flight engine fire on flight to Melbourne Vladimir Putin to visit North Korea New research shows news intake is up Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New research released today from Women’s Health Victoria is showing a sad state of affairs for how people see their genitalia in 2024. The research, which includes a nationally representative YouGov survey of more than 1000 Australians with a labia, found that porn and the 'online world' are having a significant impact on young people's anxiety and shame around their vulva and labia. In this episode, we speak with the longest serving Dolly Doctor and Labia Library ambassador, Dr Melissa Kang. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New research has found 69 per cent of Australians access TV via the internet and millions will miss out on watching sport if proposed anti-siphoning laws are not applied to streaming services. A new study has found 29 per cent of Australians watch TV exclusively through an aerial and 18 per cent of those are considering switching to digital soon. If anti-siphoning laws are not extended to digital services, around half (49%) of people who use free streaming services such as 9Now and 7Plus reported they would simply miss out on watching sport. In this episode of The Briefing, we’re joined by Free TV CEO Bridget Fair to find out what needs to happen to keep sport and other major television events, on free-to-air TV. SCA is a member of Free TV Australia, which is behind the Keep Sport Free campaign. Headlines: Albanese to meet with Chinese Premier Li Swiss peace summit sees international support for Ukraine Robert Irwin threatens to sue Pauline Hanson’s One Nation over cartoon Royals receive positive coverage over Father's Day Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR Newsroom See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sally McMullen and Alexandra Hourigan describe themselves as just two chicks trying to navigate their 20s and their love of online shopping. The duo turned their friendship and passion of scoring a bargain into Two Broke Chicks - dishing out everything from saving hacks to how to make friends as an adult in their podcast, new book and through socials. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Sal and Alex share what they think about the bad rap millennials and zillenials get when it comes to Insta inspired spending. WEEKEND LIST TO EAT - Burger bowl with special sauce TO LISTEN - Soul Ties by H3rizon TO WATCH - Real Housewives of Salt Lake City TO EAT - Dominos gluten free and vegan cheese pizza Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Animals communicate with one another all the time, but few species have the ability to call each other by individual names. Dolphins are known to invent their own signature whistle as names, while parrots have also been known to use names with each other – and now new research has found that African elephants have found their own way to call each other by name too. In this episode of the Briefing, lead author of the study and behavioural ecologist Mickey Pardo joins Bension Siebert to explain how African elephants use rumble sounds to communicate. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There's been a surprising spike this year in the number of Monkeypox cases internationally and in Australia. In a post-pandemic world, fears of a virus that could spread amongst large groups of people are unsurprising - but are concerns about this latest spike warranted? And what's causing the spike of Mpox to occur? In this episode, The Briefing's Simon Beaton speaks with expert in infectious diseases, Professor David Tscharke from the Australian National University. Headlines: Ukraine signs historic ten year security deal with the US Chris Dawson loses appeal Young Aussie Actress cast in upcoming Disney film Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

14 high-profile Australian women have joined forces to recreate the famous Calendar Girls campaign to raise awareness of domestic violence. Inspired by the Calendar Girls 25 years ago who stripped for a nude calendar to raise awareness of cancer, Let’s Get Explicit is trying to keep the conversation going and to raise awareness of domestic violence in Australia. Politicians like Victorian MP Georgie Purcell, actor Sharon Johal and our own Antoinette Lattouf have been photographed the calendar, depicting prominent Australians in images where they feel empowered, to raise funding for and drive societal change around violence against women. In this episode of The Briefing, Bension Siebert is joined by to Antoinette to find out why she’s involved, and what the organisers hope to achieve.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The European Parliament held its elections over the weekend, with provisional results showing significant victory for radical-right political parties across the continent. As preliminary election results rolled in, French President Emmanuel Macron called a snap parliamentary election in the country later this month, following strong results for his right-wing rival party Marine Le Pen. In this episode of The Briefing, we take a deep dive into the surge of right-wing parties and policies across Europe, what’s behind the drift to the right, and what the impact might be here in Australia. Headlines: Investigations suggests PwC scandal to be beyond just Australia SA Premier Peter Malinauskas proposes bill to ban all political donations Former footballer Jarryd Haynes wins appeal against sexual assault convictions World records broken at Aussie swimming trials Note: If you'd like to hear our former episode on how companies pay to influence our politicians, head here. Follow The Briefing:TikTok: @listnrnewsroomInstagram: @listnrnewsroom @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @LiSTNRnewsroomFacebook: @LiSTNR NewsroomSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.