The Briefing

New data from the ACT Government shows just 20% of people who reported a Covid infection in December were known to have previously had the illness. Australia’s high rate of hybrid immunity continues to trend making us more equipped to cope with new outbreaks than most other countries. Infectious disease specialists say the trend refers to the double shield of previous infection and vaccination, but they warned this could change if Aussies don’t keep up with their vaccine doses. In 2022, Australia saw the most deaths from Covid as the first time getting Covid is when it’s the most dangerous, this was due to the high rates of spreading according to one of Australia’s top disease experts, Professor Peter Collignon. With new variants being able to evade treatments it continues to be a challenge when treating COVID-19. In this episode, we speak to Associate Professor, Paul Griffin Director of Infectious Diseases at Mater Health about the Covid forecast for 2023. Headlines: - Prince Harry's explosive interviews to plug his new book- More than 1000 protestors arrested in Brazil - PM visits flood-ravaged areas of WA- House price crash heading for record levels Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Aussies are starting the new year with higher rates, rent and fuel along with rocketing food prices. Food shortages are hitting supermarkets across the country due to labour shortages and flooding and we could even see prices rise another 8 percent by November. In this episode we speak with Richard Forbes, CEO of Independent Food Distributors Australia about just what will happen with our food in 2023. Headlines: - Albo accuses Dutton of 'cheap culture war stunts' over Indigenous voice- Indian man accused of Toyah Cordingley murder not fighting extradition- Clean-up begins in WA flood crisis - Aussies fall short of South Africa clean sweep in cricket test series Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia is facing a housing crisis, and we're not the only ones. Canada is also dealing with a shortage of homes, and has just introduced a ban on foreigners buying property. The policy has attracted approval from Aussies online, with some calling for a similar strategy to be implemented here. In this episode we speak with Michael Bourque is the CEO of the Canadian Real Estate Association about the ban, and whether it could be a viable solution to our housing shortage. Headlines: - Ukraine: Russia orders temporary ceasefire- Pope Benedict XVI laid to rest- Australian IS bride charged- Covid hits our life expectancy rates Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia is known for its harsh sun and hot summers, but Vitamin D deficiency is growing. Vitamin D is crucial to our physical and mental health, yet most of us don't know just how much we need, and how to get it. In this episode we speak with Roger Sutherland, a nutritionist, shift worker and host of the Healthy Shift podcast about why getting our daily dose might not be as easy as we think Headlines: - Australia buys $1B worth of missiles- Residents evacuated in the Kimberley- Rudd accuses the US of “throwing allies under a bus”- US: House Speaker vote stuck in stalemate Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We know gym memberships go up at the start of the year with people keen to get their bodies in shape, but what about our minds? In this episode of the Briefing we find out why we feel like our attention spans are getting shorter and strategies we can use to stay on task and be happier. We speak with Susan Pearse who is part of the Mind Gardener, an organisation that focuses on building attention to increase mindfulness, fulfillment and happiness. She has worked in this area for 25 years and authored four books that use mindfulness strategies backed by neurological science to rewire and retrain the brain. Headlines: - Investigations into helicopter crash underway- Covid restrictions: China warns of retaliation- Kimberley suffers record-breaking floods- Pele: Brazilian football legend farewelled Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The bushranger holds a special place in the Australian psyche. Celebrated for their bravery and their ability to go against the grain, against authority and deified through time as heroes. But not all were seen at the time in such a positive way, and not all were white men. We speak with Boundary Crossers author Meg Foster, who reveals the stories of bushrangers that didn’t fit the mold, like African American man Black Douglas, Chinese bushranger Sam Poo, Aboriginal man Jimmy Governor and Aboriginal woman, Mary Ann Bugg. Headlines: - Four dead following helicopter collision- China: Government goes against health advice- Population is back on track- De Minaur beats Nadal- Jeremy Renner in critical condition Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year, the Sydney New Year’s fireworks were watched by millions of people around the world, but have you ever wondered how it’s put together? We speak to the man behind the fireworks, Fortunato Forti, a seventh generation pyrotechnician who has put on displays all over the world including in Hong Kong, Turkey, Canada, the US and the UK. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A look back on The Year That Was with Tom Tilley, Katrina Blowers, Antoinette Lattouf and Rhianna Patrick. We talk about the biggest stories of the year, including the Queen’s death, the federal election and the chaos of Elon Musk. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is the BookTok phenomenon? Is it making reading cool? And how is it affecting book sales? There’s been a big surge in book sales, and publishers are putting it down to a new phenomenon called BookTok. BookTok is where young people on TikTok, typically in their teens or early twenties post about their favourite books in emotional videos racking up millions of views. BookTok has been responsible for the resurgence of several books on the New York Times’ bestseller list, including E. Lockhart’s "We Were Liars." We speak with E. Lockhart about BookTok and how it’s encouraged her to write its prequel "Family of Liars." Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today’s Briefing we look at a perverse twist of 'Me Too'. The wave of abuse stories has come with a wave of defamation lawsuits. London-based barristers Jen Robinson and Keina Yoshida have written a book called How Many More Women detailing the way the law and the media has held back justice for sexual assault victims. The book is about how and why laws must change to protect women who are brave enough to speak out against their attackers. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This year the USA has been rocked by the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v Wade - the case that has protected the right to abortion in the US for almost 50 years. Already, states are banning the procedure and it may be just weeks before half of the states across the US ban abortion. In today’s episode of The Briefing, Nick Sweeney, an Australian born director of a documentary called AKA Jane Roe tells us the unbelievable story of a young Texan woman called Norma McCorvey – who was to become Jane Roe. You won’t believe what Nick learned in the making of the documentary. It left Americans reeling, and turned the entire saga on its head. In today’s Briefing: the story behind the abortion case dividing America. Follow The Briefing:Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With rising interest rates, escalating inflation, a war underway in Ukraine and coming out of the pandemic, it’s understandable we’re all a bit more worried. In today’s episode of the Briefing, we talk with Brigid Delaney about her book: Reasons Not To Worry - How to Be Stoic in Chaotic Times. Brigid explains what we can learn from stoics, philosophers who lived by a set of rules that helped them find solace and comfort in difficult times. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We all know Santa Claus as a jolly old white man with a grey beard and red suit, but is this version of Mr Claus about to change? Australian director Nick Sweeney, has produced a documentary about the Saint Nicks and Mrs Clauses who come from all walks of life at a Santa training camp in the US. In this episode of the Briefing we speak with Nick about the changing face of Santa Claus. Headlines: - AFP makes one of its most significant arrests ever- Neighbour killed in QLD siege farewelled- Liberals need to woo back women, Chinese voters- Aussies evacuated from Machu Picchu- Cyclone Ellie becomes first to cross the coast Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How do you teach kids about money? That's the question The Barefoot Investor has set out to answer in his new book Barefoot Kids. He covers pocket money, saving, spending and everything else to get kids financially literate. We speak with The Barefoot Investor himself, Scott Pape about how to prepare our children, so they can become confident money-savvy adults. Headlines: - ACT announces inquiry into Lehrmann case- Volodymyr Zelenskyy visits USA- Penny Wong back from China- QLD officers posthumously awarded- Deliveroo creditors to receive due Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

ChatGPT released by OpenAI can write essays, complete maths problems and even speak in Shakespearean English. It's the latest iteration in this new technology that promises to change the way we search for information - and could even replace some of our jobs. New York Times Technology Correspondent Cade Metz joins us to understand more about this new technology and why it's so easy to trust it, even if we shouldn't. Headlines: - Memorial for fallen QLD police officers takes place today- Two men handed lifetime bans by Football Australia- Kevin Rudd named US ambassador- Four teens found after spending a night at sea- Splendour in the Grass fined $100,000 Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Killer robots no longer belong to science fiction stories, with San Francisco recently having to make a decision about whether to allow robots to use lethal force. At first decision makers said yes, but the backlash was so severe they reversed the decision a week later. In this episode we delve into the debate surrounding whether we should allow police robots to use lethal force with Daphne Duret from The Marshall Project. Headlines: - Penny Wong visits Beijing- Brian Houston told court his father was a serial paedophile- Three charged over A League pitch invasion- Memorial for Queensland officers to take place Wednesday- Johnny Depp and Amber Heard settle Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Qatar 2022 World Cup has ended with a spectacular final that culminated in a penalty shootout and a win for Argentina. It's been an eventful tournament: from the FIFA president’s questionable opening speech, to the sudden death of three journalists.This year was also the Socceroos' most successful World Cup campaign ever. In this episode, we’re unpack the wins, the losses and the controversies with ABC journalist Tracey Holmes live from Qatar. Headlines: - Manhunt following A-League pitch invasion- Child in hospital due to contaminated spinach- China braces for 1 million Covid deaths- More gold for our swimmers- What will the weather be for Christmas? Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Virginia Gay describes herself as ‘highly sexed chaos’. Virginia is an Australian actress, writer and director. You’ll most likely recognise her voice from the characters she’s played in television dramas; Frances James on Winners and Losers or Gabrielle Jaeger on All Saints. More recently Virginia spends her time on stage, often writing and performing her own work. Two years of lockdowns made her realise that there is something special about live theatre that simply cannot be recreated in any other medium. In this conversation Jamila Rizvi and Virginia Gay discuss Virginia’s theatrical childhood, leaving your ego at the door and making your own work. THE WEEKEND LIST WATCH: Avatar: The Way Of Water LISTEN: The most anticipated movies of the summer – The Drop Podcast LISTEN: Beanie Babies with Jamie Loftus – You’re Wrong About Podcast WATCH: Matilda the Musical Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s a story fit for a James Bond movie: last week US WNBA star Brittney Griner came home, after being swapped for notorious Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout. In this episode we find out why Bout has been called ‘a merchant of death’; how tough it was to catch him in the first place; what the domestic fallout has been in the US; how Griner is doing now; and the diplomatic effort it takes to make a swap like this. We’re speaking to Danielle Gilbert, expert in US foreign policy at Dartmouth College, about the US-Russia prisoner swap. Headlines: - Bombshells dropped in Harry and Meghan documentary- Labor’s last minute power bill passes parliament- Queensland to review double jeopardy laws- Unemployment stays at 3.4%- Officer from Lindt café siege speaks out Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Women in Australia are earning around $26,500 less each year than men, according to the latest Workplace Gender Equality Agency report. That number hasn’t changed over the past twelve months – with no progress being made for the first time in nine years. In this episode, we speak to Mary Wooldridge, Director of the Workplace Gender Equality Agency, about why the pay gap is stagnating and what more Australian businesses need to do for gender equality. Headlines: - Labor's energy bill to pass parliament today- Scomo defends robodebt- Siege neighbour's widow critical of police - Bali bombing victims' families slam Patek apology Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government is facing criticism for its decision to cut the number of Medicare subsidised mental health sessions under the Better Access scheme. During the Covid pandemic, the Morrison government doubled the number of psychology sessions available from ten to twenty. From next year, the number of appointments each patient can receive under the initiative will be slashed back down to ten. In this episode, we speak to Mitch Wallis - a leader in the well-being space and co-founder of Calm Water Health, about Australia’s mental health treatment. Headlines: - QLD cops had “no chance” in deadly ambush- Former WA police officer gets 30 years for sex crimes- Brittany Higgins reaches settlement with Federal Government- Golden night for our relay team at World Swimming Championships Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bali’s tourism industry could take a hit after new laws banning sex outside of marriage were passed in Indonesian parliament. The new criminal code could also prevent couples who aren’t married from living together. So, what does this mean for the thousands of Australians that travel to Bali each month? In this episode of the Briefing we speak to Indonesian/Australian journalist and lecturer Tito Ambyo about the new criminal code. We also chat to Jenny Hewett, a freelance travel writer, who speaks about her experience of living in Bali and how the new laws might impact tourism there. Headlines: - Six dead in Queensland shooting and siege- New Covid rules for 2023- Aussies nominated for Golden Globes- Candice Warner offered security after verbal abuse Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Renters and first-time homeowners look set for a difficult Christmas after the RBA announced another hike in interest rates. Australia is already in the middle of a rental crisis with around 70% of people paying rent which is over a third of their household income. In this episode of the Briefing we speak to Emma Greenhalgh, CEO of National Shelter, about the current struggle to find an affordable place to rent in Australia. Headlines: - Gender pay gap stagnates- Labor faces uphill energy battle- East braces for ‘unsettled weather’- Lehrmann in talks for TV interview- FIFA world cup semi finalists decided Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Anna Spargo-Ryan is an award winning author and writer, whose work has appeared in The Guardian, the Good Weekend, The Saturday Paper and more. She is a mother of two, who was born in Adelaide but now lives in Melbourne. Anna is also an agoraphobe who rarely leaves the relatively short radius around her home. During covid lockdowns, Anna Spargo-Ryan rediscovered activities she hadn’t participated in for years. For two years she went to book launches and birthday drinks. She saw her favourite bands play. And then, Anna said goodbye all over again, to the things she loves; unable to participate when they moved offline again and into the “real world”.Anna’s life, rather like her new book A Kind of Magic, can be dark and difficult, but is also funny and warm, hopeful and joyous. In this conversation Jamila Rizvi and Anna Spargo-Ryan delve into living with mental illness, healing your inner child and discuss why Anna has stopped searching for a “cure”. THE WEEKEND LIST WATCH: Below Deck Adventure – HAYU WATCH: Plan International Charity Christmas Gift WATCH: Christmas Ransom - STAN EAT: 70 Incredible Edible Presents To Give This Festive Season – Delicious.com.au Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Could a tax adjustment save Australia's live music venues? A new study has found a 70% drop in the number of venue-based live music gigs taking place in Australia following Covid. Around one in seven venues say they never expect to return to pre-pandemic sized audiences with the current tax settings in place. We’re joined by Dean Ormston - CEO of APRA AMCOS - which represents more than 100,000 musicians, to find out about a new tax offset that could revive the live music sector. In today’s Briefing….a new scheme to re-boot Australia’s live music sector. Headlines: - Harry and Meghan’s Netflix doco drops- National Cabinet to meet today over energy price crisis- Warner’s manager says CA knew about ball tampering- Iran carries out first protest execution- WNBA star freed via prisoner swap Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How did police track down Toyah Cordingley’s suspected murderer, and where do we go from here? 24-year-old Toyah was murdered on a beach near Cairns four years ago. Her suspected killer has just been arrested in India after he allegedly fled Australia in the days following Toyah’s death. We’re joined by Seven News journalist Joel Dry who’s been covering the case. In today’s Briefing, we find out what has happened so far, and why the path to justice for Toyah Cordingley will take so long. Headlines: - Bali bomber Umar Patek released from prison- Zelensky and the “spirit of Ukraine” Time Person of the Year- China eases Covid restrictions in response to protests- New homeless figures include 76,000 under 18- Elvis sweeps AACTAs Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are lab-grown diamonds, and why are they becoming so popular? Lab-grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular, with a recent survey showing nearly 70% of millennials are happy to consider them for an engagement ring. We’re joined by Jodi Bradby, professor at the Research School of Physics and Engineering at the Australian National University; and Ronnie Bauer from the Jewellers Association of Australia. In today’s Briefing, lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically and optically identical to mined diamonds, so how are they made, and are they more sustainable than traditional diamonds? Headlines: - Interest rate pain in lead-up to Christmas- National Cabinet to meet Friday to discuss energy price caps- Indonesia bans sex outside of marriage- Watermelon prices skyrocket Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why has North Korean leader Kim Jong-un decided to reveal his daughter to the world now? Kim Jong-un has revealed North Korea plans to build the “world’s most powerful nuclear force” after testing out a new ballistic missile. He’s also revealed his daughter to the public for the first time ever. So why has the North Korean leader chosen to unveil her to the world now? In this episode of the Briefing we’re speaking to Gordon Flake, founding CEO of the Perth USAsia Centre at The University of Western Australia. We explore North Korea’s nuclear plans and the significance of Kim Jong-un revealing his daughter. Headlines: - Albo tests positive for Covid-19- RBA expected to increase rates today- Hillsong founder Houston returns to court today- China criticises Australian delegation to Taiwan- Heatwave heading to northern Australia Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is it like for youngsters locked up inside Western Australia’s Banksia Hill detention centre? We’re joined by the ABC reporter Grace Tobin, whose distressing Four Corners report has revealed the number of excessive force complaints against officers at Banksia Hill. Officers have been exposed for using the ‘folding up’ technique to restrain teenagers. The movement is banned in Queensland over fears it could lead to suffocation or death. In this episode of the Briefing, WA’s Banksia Hill’s shameful treatment of detainees - many of whom are children Headlines: - Feds push for cap on energy prices- Albo finishes year on top of the polls- Iran to scrap morality police - Alleged ISIS terrorist Prakash facing six charges - Shane Warne elevated to legend status at Australian Sport Hall of Fame Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Anne Summers is one of Australia's greatest contributors to the feminist movement. She is a writer, speaker and author, who was editor of the American publication Ms magazine in the 1980s and editor of the Good Weekend here in Australia in the 1990s. In between those roles she advised Prime Ministers Hawke and Keating on women's issues and went on to run the Office for the Status of Women, in Canberra.Her most recent work is about the link between family violence and women’s poverty. To read the full report on The Choice: Violence or Poverty by Anne Summers, click the link here: https://www.violenceorpoverty.com/ In this conversation Jamila Rizvi explores the life of Anne Summers, and the pair dissect the confronting figures on the correlation of violence and poverty experienced by women in Australia. THE WEEKEND LIST WATCH: Wednesday - Netflix WATCH: From Lone Wolf to Leader: The Making of Anthony Albanese – The Guardian DO: Wear sunscreen people! EAT: Gingerbread house recipe – Sally’s Baking Addiction Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You may know Isaiah Firebrace from the X Factor or Eurovision. Well he’s written a new children’s book - Come Together - things every kid should know about our First Peoples Isaiah joins Rhianna to explain the book is a heart-warming, debut picture book for children aged 5 and up, inspired by Isaiah’s petition to the Australian Government calling for Aboriginal history to be taught in every classroom. Come Together will make every Aussie kid proud that we are home to the longest continuing culture on Earth! The book is available now. Headlines: - Chris Dawson to be sentenced today- Territories given go-ahead to debate voluntary dying laws- Meghan and Harry’s Netflix trailer drops- Socceroos to face Argentina early Sunday Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Chinese government introduced its ‘zero-Covid’ policy back in 2019 when the virus was first detected. So why are protesters choosing to demonstrate against it almost three years later? We’re joined by author and Senior Fellow for East Asia at the Lowy Institute Richard McGregor, to discuss the ‘White Paper protests’ and how the Chinese authorities are attempting to mute them. In this episode of the Briefing we explore how protestors in China are using creative methods to stand up against the country’s strict Covid measures. Headlines: - Socceroos WIN!! Australia through to Round of 16 - Former PM Morrison censured by Parliament- First day of summer after miserable spring- Inflation decline potentially good news for interest rates Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why is it becoming more common for women to freeze their eggs? A couple in the US has just welcomed twins into the world using embryos made 30 years ago. The twins have been named the ‘oldest babies’ to be born after the eggs were kept in ice for 3 decades. We’re joined by Molly Johnston, a bioethics lecturer at Monash University and she’s been working in the IVF field for the last five years to find out if this is something that could happen in Australia. In this episode of the Briefing we explore the growing popularity of women choosing to freeze their eggs and have babies at a later stage in life. Headlines: -New national anti-corruption commission to become law today - Nationals split over Indigenous Voice- NSW Covid fines scrapped- Outback Wrangler charged over chopper crash Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Should employers respect a worker’s right to disconnect? The age of mobile phones and the internet means we’re connected more than ever. We’re basically available 24/7. Should workers retain the right to disconnect once their work day is done? A growing movement, called 'right to disconnect' is urging employers to respect a worker’s right to their own downtime. We’re joined by a Queensland teacher and Greens Senator Barbara Pocock. Before she was elected earlier this year, she was worked at the University of South Austrlalia and wrote several books on work/life balance. In this episode of the Briefing we explore the growing movement to enable staff to say ‘enough’s enough’ and to turn off their phones in their own time. Headlines: - Nationals will not support Indigenous Voice - $50m fines for companies over data breaches- RBA boss apologises for wrong advice - Australia’s terror threat reduced- WHO renames monkeypox over racism concerns Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

So many of us have developed mental health problems in the wake of the pandemic. The federal government currently has a program where you can see a GP and the doctor will refer you to a psychologist for 20 help sessions, but the government is planning on winding that back to ten sessions by the end of the year. To add to the problem it’s virtually impossible to find a psychologist who will take on new patients. We’re joined by Sahra O’Doherty – a practicing psychologist and director of the Australian Association of Psychologists – who explains why it’s so tough to find a psych and why the government should keep its current policy of 20 sessions in place. In today’s Briefing, a deep dive on why it’s so difficult to find a psychologist – and why it’s really important to persevere if your GP recommends you seek help. If you need someone to talk to, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. Headlines: - New IR laws get green light- Andrews' resounding election win- China protests over Covid restrictions- Toyah Cordingly accused arrested in India- Cam Smith wins third Australian PGA Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Angela White is Australia's most successful porn star. Angela knew she wanted to work in porn from the age of fourteen. She saw the industry as a place where her sexuality and her love of sex would be celebrated, not stigmatised. Today, Angela is one of the biggest adult entertainers in the world, with her own empire. The Daily Beast describes her as the "Meryl Streep of porn". In this conversation Jamila Rizvi and Angela White talk about everything from politics, education, shame around sex and the ins and outs of the pornography industry. THE WEEKEND LIST WATCH: STUTZ - Netflix Documentary WATCH: The White Lotus - BINGE WATCH: Dead To Me (Season 3) - Netflix GET: Sticks Pinot Noir - Yarra Valley Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Cryptocurrency is having a year from hell. And it’s been a massive fall - the market capitalisation of the crypto market has fallen from around $US3 trillion last year to around $US 800 billion. As part of the fall, one of the world’s most famous crypto cowboys came down to earth. Sam Bankman-Fried, the founder of crypto exchange FTX We’re joined by Paul Vigna, a reporter at the Wall Street Journal... he’s written a book called The Age of Cryptocurrency. Paul explains who SBF is, and how he had such a spectacular fall. In this episode of the Briefing, we look at the rise and fall of the crypto cowboy, Sam Bankman-Fried Headlines: - Baker Boy’s big night at the ARIAs- Tracy Grimshaw bids farewell to A Current Affair- Vic polls point to possible hung parliament- Nude shoot for Bondi Beach Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chinese president Xi Jinping met with Australia’s prime minister Anthony Albanese last week. It was a first step in a bid to mend relations between the two countries. China blocked Australian imports of wine, barley, live seafood and beef - among others - in 2020 in response to Australia’s criticism of China in the wake of the pandemic. We’re joined by Joanna Chiu - a Vancouver-based journalist for the Toronto Star and the author of 'China Unbound - a new world disorder’ to discover why China has taken Australia out of the diplomatic deep freeze. So what’s behind China’s bid to welcome us back into the fold? Is it simply a change of government? Or is China playing a long game? Headlines: - NSW town evacuated as Lachlan River floods - Seven dead in Walmart shooting in US - Teenager killed in Jerusalem terror attack - Scotland blocked from holding second independence vote - Japan stuns Germany in World Cup upset Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We look at the results of an inquiry into sexism in the Queensland Police Service. In May, QLD Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced an independent Commission of Inquiry into Queensland Police Service responses to domestic and family violence. We’re joined by Kate Kyriacou, a senior journalist at Brisbane’s Courier Mail newspaper. Kate has followed the hearings since day one and says the inquiry heard women had been raped, kissed, touched inappropriately, threatened and stalked online and in person by senior colleagues. In today’s Briefing we dissect the inquiry’s findings and ask a simple question – can the culture in the QLD Police Service change under its current leadership? Headlines: - RBA boss warns of higher inflation, lower growth - Saudi Arabia stuns Argentina at FIFA World Cup - Helliar announces Project departure - Indo quake death toll reaches 268 - Caddick artworks sold at auction Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Protests against Iran's clerical establishment erupted two months ago after the death in custody of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman who was detained by morality police for allegedly breaking the strict hijab rules. We’re joined by Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert who spent more than 800 days imprisoned in Iran and has carried out research into protests and revolutions in the Middle East. Kylie explains we’ll see more bloodshed before we see the end of the unrest. The protests have spread to 140 cities and towns and evolved into the most significant challenge to the Islamic Republic in over a decade. In today’s Briefing, Iran’s youth revolution Headlines: - Massive earthquake in Indonesia kills more than 160 - NASA returns to moon’s orbit - QLD police lashed in sexism inquiry - World Cup ‘one love’ armband ban - More wild weather on east coast Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victoria will head to the polls this weekend, to decide whether to re-elect Daniel Andrews. We look into what has shaped the man who has become one of Australia’s most powerful and divisive premiers. We speak to Sumeyya Ilanbey from The Age who has written a biography of Andrews, the man who is likely to lead his government into a third term. Headlines: - Severe weather lashes east- FIFA World Cup begins in Qatar- Elon Musk reinstates Trump’s Twitter account- Historic deal struck at the UN's COP27 summit- Five dead in Colorado shooting; more medibank data released; Chris Hemsworth takes a break; Lisa Wilkinson leaves The Project; Kath & Kim airs 20 year reunion Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tom Boyd was just eighteen years old when he was named the number one AFL draft pick of 2013. After briefly playing for Greater Western Sydney he moved back to Melbourne to join the Western Bulldogs. The teenager’s contract was worth a record-breaking $7 million. Tom Boyd was instrumental in the Bulldogs premiership of 2016, the team’s first in 62 years. Three years later, at 23 years old, Tom made the decision to retire from footy, shocking fans, commentators and everyone who had predicted a long and glittering career. In this conversation Jamila Rizvi & Tom Boyd discuss the pressure and scrutiny that came with Tom’s AFL career, including the cycle of severe insomnia, depression and anxiety, plus his insights on what the AFL can do better to help players both on and off the field. THE WEEKEND LIST WATCH: Donna Hay Christmas – Disney+ WATCH: The Phantom of The Opera – Arts Centre Melbourne DO: Check out Black Friday & Cyber Monday sales GET: Witchery X KITX capsule collection 'Towards a Sustainable Future’ Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Each morning, The Briefing tells you what is happening in the world. But does it tell you why it is happening? Well, yes, actually it does. It’s a real all-rounder. But what if I told you that there was a brand new podcast that could tell you the whats and the whys of what is happening in relation to astrology? Hosted by astrologer Katherine Gillies, It’s a Sign is a daily, 90-second guide to your life. Delving into the complexities of the Zodiac, Katherine charts moon and planetary transits and contextualises – simply – how these changes will translate into our day-to-day lives. If you’re ever wanted a little friend on your shoulder, whispering what you should (and shouldn’t) be doing, you need It’s a Sign. This is SO much more than a horoscope – it’s logical, practical tips in short, bite-sized pieces. Welcome to your new guide to life! It’s a Sign is now available on all your favourite podcasting apps.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Covid cases are rapidly rising on Australia's east coast, leading Queensland to issue an amber alert across the state. There are fears Australia is heading for a Covid crisis in the lead up to Christmas. Experts are urging us to work from home; there are calls for mask mandates to be re-introduced; and Queensland has issued an amber alert across the state. In this episode of the Briefing, we talk new strains, new risks and just how worried we need to be this Summer. To answer all these questions we’re joined by Associate Professor Paul Griffin who’s an infectious diseases doctor and microbiologist at Brisbane’s Mater Hospital. Headlines: - Australian released from Myanmar prison- Three sentenced following MH17 trial- Third missing in floods; Guy Sebastian’s manager sentenced; Twiggy donates to Ukraine; Taylor Swift crashes Ticketmaster- Neighbours is coming back Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Towns in the Central West of NSW have been inundated by floodwaters this week. Residents of Forbes were told to leave town with the Lachlan River forecast to hit a new record. There were wild scenes across a number of small towns on Monday: more than 100 people were rescued by helicopter in Eugowra. Molong and Canowindra were also hard hit by flooding, and Wyangla Dam on the Lachlan has been overflowing. We’re joined by Jamie Jones, deputy mayor of Cabonne Shire Council and Kathy Finn, the manager of Hay’s Shear Outback, the Shearer’s Hall of Fame, to give us a snapshot of the impact of the floods – which in itself is amazing, given the two communities are more than 500kms apart. In this episode of the Briefing, we bring you the voices of people hammered by flooding in the NSW Central West. Headlines: - Ukraine war: crisis averted- Trump launches 2024 presidential bid- NSW floods claim another life- Deliveroo leaves Australia- Kevin Spacey charged; Tesla recalls cars; NASA launches Artemis Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A brand new podcast has lifted the lid on every parent’s worst nightmare. Listnr’s new podcast, The Children in the Pictures follows Australian documentary-maker and dad, Akhim Dev, as he uncovers the truth behind a global criminal network of child sexual abuse. We’re joined by Detective Inspector Jon Rouse, who has been running Taskforce Argos at QLD Police for 25 years. His team infiltrates child sex networks to find 'the children in the pictures' – and hopefully to arrest and convict those responsible. On today’s Briefing, a sneak peak at this new eight-part series examining how the fastest-growing serious crime in the world has become endemic online, and explores what we can all do to fight it. Headlines: - Two missing in NSW floods- Albanese meets with Xi Jinping - Covid wave to soon be over - Djokovic to play Aus Open - AGL: Cannon-Brookes victorious Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After Elon Musk’s incredible success at Tesla and Paypal, the world wanted to see what he would do when he announced he was buying Twitter. So far, it's been a disaster. From day one, Musk has pivoted from one mistake to another, sacking thousands of people before backtracking and making a complete mess of the verification process. In today’s Briefing, we take a deep dive on Elon Musk’s twitter chaos, blow by blow with David Swan, the tech editor at The Australian newspaper. Headlines: - Flood crisis worsening in western NSW- Anthony Albanese to meet Xi Jinping - Medibank: Mental health data leaked - Folbigg inquiry examines role of mutant gene- Amazon boss Bezos to give away his fortune Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Rebel Wilson has just announced her daughter was born via surrogate. She’s one of a growing number of people having their children this way. In her announcement she thanked the surrogate who “carried Royce and birthed her with such grace and care,” and it got us talking about surrogacy. In today's Briefing, we speak to lawyer Sarah Jefford, a surrogate herself, about the Australia system which forces the majority of couples who want a surrogate, to go overseas. Headlines: - US: Democrats hold the senate- Biden speaks to Albo ahead of China talks- Celebrations in Ukraine- Wild weather lashes the south east- Victorian election begins Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

NASA is heading back to the moon in the hopes of setting up a colony there. But this endeavour – called Artemis - has been plagued by delays and the spacecraft remains firmly on the ground. So, what’s going on? Why hasn’t it launched yet? Dr Sophie Calabretto talks to Cosmos Magazine journalist Matthew Agius about the Artemis missions, what's gone wrong so far and when we’re likely to a see moon colony become a reality.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brooke Blurton was Australia's first ever Indigenous and bisexual Bachelorette. There is so more to this impressive young woman than reality TV fame. Brooke is a passionate advocate for mental health, a proud champion of young queer people and people of colour.In her new book Big Love, she reveals a far more complex character than we were permitted to see on screen, and speaks about a childhood that was truly harrowing at times but nonetheless, full of love. In this conversation Jamila Rizvi and Brooke Blurton dive into the importance of identity and culture, mental health and breaking through intergenerational trauma. THE WEEKEND LIST LISTEN: Jan Fran ‘I Just Thought, This Is It' - The Jess Rowe Big Talk Show Podcast WATCH: The Great British Bake Off - BINGE LISTEN: Peking Duk Podcast GET: Nala Underwear Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.