The Briefing

Three hundred and thirty-nine people lost their lives to drowning last year while a further 686 experienced a non-fatal drowning incident. Between December 1 and January 9 alone, 35 people drowned across Australia. It's a combination of a number of factors that create these scenarios.We’re joined by Dr Amy Peden - A research fellow at the School of Population Health, UNSW, a leader in drowning prevention research and advocacy, to find out what you can do to save someone whilst keeping yourself safe as well. In this episode of the Briefing, Australia’s drowning crisis. Headlines: Over 40 people dead after Pakistan suicide bombing Opposing politicians launch No campaign against the Voice Rental crisis set to get worse after new Chinese studying laws Boris Johnson claims Vladimir Putin threatened him Bill Gates ABC interview Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ozempic is a drug used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity but social media influencers have now turned it into the most popular weight loss drug. Promotion of the drug has led to a shortage of supply with Australia's drugs regulator now investigating the matter. However, other issues have contributed to the lack of supply and influencers have promoted weight loss supplements for years. So why is TGA looking into the particular promotion of Ozempic? In this episode we speak to public health advisor on nutrition, Professor Tim Gill, to find out what’s different about the promotion of this specific drug. Headlines: Djokovic wins 10th Australian Open title Four dead in NZ floods Missing radioactive capsule in WA Good news for the Aussie tv and film industry. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Chloe Fisher married her now-husband, Grammy-nominated DJ Fisher, in 2020. It was on their wedding night that Chloe fell pregnant for the first time. She would miscarry shortly after. It was from that point that Chloe, also a model, instagram influencer and entrepreneur, decided to use her platform to give voice to people who have lost pregnancies. Along with her friend and co-host Ellidy Pullin, they’ve created a community of listeners who support one another through their fertility journeys.Only 31-years-old, Chloe has now been through seven full rounds of IVF. She is determined, one way or another, to become a parent. You can check out more from Darling, Shine! here. For miscarriage, stillbirth and newborn death support head to https://www.sands.org.au/ or call 1300 308 307 for 24/7 phone support. Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s beer culture is almost embedded in Aussies from childhood, whether one of your parents is asking you to grab them a beer from the fridge or pass their stubby holder, having a cold one in hand is a standard practice. But over the last couple of years the rise of non-alcoholic or low alcohol drinks have boomed, with companies like Heaps Normal leading the way.  In this episode of the Briefing, we’re joined by Andy Miller, co-founder and CEO of Heaps Normal.  His company only began in 2020 - and now has now catapulted into a $57.5 million business.  Today’s episode is all about how mindful drinking has exploded in Australia.   Headlines: - Thousands march in Australia Day rallies- New Australian of the Year speaks out about men's body image issues- Body of missing Gold Coast Woman found- US commits to sending tanks to Ukraine- Aussies make it to men's doubles Aus Open final   Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australians across the country will “celebrate” Australia Day today, January 26. Many believe it ought to be scrapped as a day of celebration out of respect for Indigenous Australians who consider the arrival of the First Fleet in 1788 as an invasion - a colonisation of First Nations. Teela Reid, indigenous lawyer and practitioner in residence at Sydney University Law School. In this long-form episode of the Briefing, Tom and Antoinette explore what the day means to Indigenous Australians. What needs to happen for Australia to move forward together.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Since December protests have rocked Peru as the former president Pedro Castillo was ousted after he attempted to dissolve the legislature to prevent an impeachment vote, and was replaced by President Dina Boluarte, his former vice-president. The anti-government protests against the new president have led to the closure of the Incan citadel of Machu Picchu and the Inca trail. We’re joined by Neil Giardino - a freelance journalist for ABC, BBC & Reuters. He is currently in Peru and has been reporting independently in Peru since 2017 In this episode of The Briefing, we find out when Machu Picchu will be back on our bucket lists. Headlines: Prime Minister Anthony Albenese in Alice Springs 7th Qantas flight with issues Seven dead in second mass California shooting Dating apps safety roundtable Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Twelve years ago, ‘cable gate’ was published by Julian Assange, founder of WikiLeaks. 251,000 confidential cables from the US State Department were released, disclosing corruption, diplomatic scandals and spy affairs on an international scale. Assange claimed asylum at the Ecuadorian Embassy in 2012 and in 2019 was arrested on a US arrest warrant. He has now been held for three and a half years in a high security British prison usually used for terrorists and members of organised crime groups. We’re joined by Greg Barns SC, an Australian barrister, author, political commentator, to get the latest on Assange’s case. Assange is wanted for 18 criminal charges and if convicted, he faces up to 175 years in prison. There are growing calls and pressure for the Biden government from both inside the United States and overseas, to drop Assange’s protracted prosecution. So will 2023 be the year Assange is released? Headlines: Qantas denies any issues with its flights Calls to block Kanye West visiting family in Australia Police identify man believed to be US Lunar New Year shooter Peru closes famous tourists spot during deadly protests Djokivic dominates De Minuar at Open Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Having a nicotine addiction used to only be associated with cigarette smokers who’d have a pack a day and always try to bum a cig. Now vaping has become the newest nicotine addiction source, with a quarter of vapers in Australia having never smoked before. We’re joined by Alyx Gorman, Lifestyle Editor at the Guardian, who found herself addicted to vaping after three years and at the peak of her addiction she estimated she was inhaling roughly the equivalent of a pack and a half of cigarettes a day. In Australia it’s illegal to sell, supply or possess an e-cigarette or any liquid that contains nicotine in Australia without a doctor’s prescription. So how and why are they so readily available in Australia? Headlines: Ten killed in California mass shooting Jacinda Arden hands Labour leadership over to Chris Hipkins Murray and Djokovic call for better scheduling in Australian Open Buckingham Palace reveals King Charles’ coronation details Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever been at dinner with mates and someone comes up with a clever idea and you all agree it could totally be an app? Well, Elise McCann is the kind of person who actually does just that!Elise is a theater performer turned entrepreneur. You’ve probably heard her sing with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, seen her perform as Miss Honey in the Australian musical production of Matilda or headlining charity galas or carols in the Domain.She is the consummate performer and now also the co-founder of a new wellness app, Hey Lemonade. In this conversation Jamila Rizvi and Elise McCann discuss everything from how does a creative reinvent themselves in the world of business and tech and what does it take to succeed in an entirely foreign field of work? THE WEEKEND LIST WATCH: Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery – Netflix WATCH: Fleishman Is In Trouble – Disney+ READ: Verity – Colleen Hoover LISTEN: The Rewatchables Podcast Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jacinda Ardern has announced she will quit as New Zealand prime minister next month, saying she no longer has "enough in the tank" to lead. Ms Ardern choked up as she detailed how six "challenging" years in the job had taken a toll. We’re joined by Chelsea Daniels Senior Reporter for NewsTalkZB in New Zealand Ms Ardern will step down as Labour Party leader no later than 7 February. There will be a vote in the coming days to determine her replacement. New Zealand will hold a general election on 14 October. Headlines: - Alec Baldwin to be charged with involuntary manslaughter- Dramatic night at Aus Open- A second Qantas plane forced to land at Sydney Airport- GPs call for tighter rules on vaping packaging Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Earlier this month the Chinese government reversed their covid-zero policy and changed how they report Covid infections and illnesses. It’s led to a number of countries including Australia placing restrictions on travelers from China out of fear a new variant will emerge there. In this episode, we speak with Jeremy Goldkorn, editor of The China Project, to find out what's really happening in China. Headlines: - Qantas plane issues rare mayday- Nadal’s shock-exit from the Australian Open- UK: Church of England rules out same-sex marriage- Woolworths gives employees option to work Australia Day- Greta Thunberg detained in Germany Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wars, the pandemic, China’s economic woes and critical flaws in the supply chain have put economies on alert across the globe. 2023 is tipped to be the year of high inflation and economic stagnation - stagflation. We speak to Richard Holden, professor of economics at the University of NSW about just what it is, and how it will affect us in our day-to-day lives? Headlines: - Extreme weather brings Australian Open matches to a halt- The Chinese and Russian economies have shrunk- Renee Geyer and Jim Molan have died- An Aussie has avoided the death penalty in Indonesia Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prince Harry’s new biography ‘Spare’ caused controversy before it was even released. It details everything from losing his virginity, to killing 25 people in Afghanistan. Harry speaks about fighting with his brother William and his decision to leave the Royal family and move both his and Meghan’s life to California. Tom Tilley and Katrina Blowers have both read the book and tell us what they think of Harry's tell-all. Headlines: - Kyrgios pulls out of Aus Open- Rugby Australia sacks Dave Rennie- Sydney teacher identified on board Nepal flight- Italy’s most wanted mafia boss arrested Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian billionaires Mike Cannon-Brookes and Andrew Forrest have fallen out over the $30b Sun Cable project, which is the giant NT solar farm that’s supposed to supply Darwin, Indonesia and Singapore with power. Last week, news broke that Sun Cable has entered voluntary administration. Sun Cable was burning through cash and missing agreed targets. Both billionaires say they still support the project, but it seems they won’t be working on it together, it will be interesting to see what happens next, whether one of them steps in to buy it outright. We speak to the Australian Financial Review's senior resources writer Angela Macdonald-Smith about the story behind the Sun Cable bust up? Headlines: - Australian suspected dead following Nepal plane crash- Joe Biden in hot water over documents- NSW Premier referred to police over Nazi costume- Romanian authorities seize Andrew Tate assets- Australian Open begins Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The former leader of the Catholic Church in Australia, Cardinal George Pell died suddenly in Rome this week. His reign was dogged by scandal. Imprisoned - and later acquitted - of child sex charges, he was also appointed by Pope Benedict to clean up the Vatican’s finances. How will George Pell be remembered? In this episode we speak to Miles Pattenden, a Senior Research Fellow at the Australian Catholic University, about George Pell’s life and legacy Headlines: NSW Premier’s leadership in jeopardy No state funeral will be held for George Pell Australia to sign security pact with Papua New Guinea The Australian Open draw is out Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Prince William has been thrown back into the spotlight, after Prince Harry claimed he physically attacked him in his new book ‘Spare.’ The relationship between the two brothers has deteriorated in the public eye as Harry continues to make damaging allegations. Prince William has kept quiet as the headlines continue to roll. So, what part does William play in all of this and how will his choices impact the future of the monarchy? In this episode, we speak to Michael Grose, a leading parent educator and author of seven parenting books, about William and Harry’s relationship. Headlines: - Pell’s body to be laid to rest in Australia- Aussie billionaires fall out over massive renewables project- Cate Blanchett wins Golden Globe Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brazil is undergoing riots that have been likened to when Trump supporters stormed the US Capitol. Far-right Bolsonaro supporters have stormed the Brazilian Congress and Supreme Court. In this episode we speak to Kathryn Baragwanath, political economy expert at the Australian Catholic University, about what prompted the protests in Brazil. We find out why this is happening, and what the implications for Brazil and the rest of the world could be. Headlines: - Labor to introduce emissions cutting legislation- China’s ambassador warns Australia against Japan- Melbourne Victory cops biggest fine in A League history- Prince Harry book out today Follow The Briefing: Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAUSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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.