The Briefing

Regional NSW and Victoria are currently in lockdown as the Delta variant of the Covid virus spreads across rural Australia.     We’re joined by Dr John Hall, President of the Regional Doctors Association of Australia who tells us the challenge is getting personell across borders and into remote communities; and Dubbo Mayor Stephen Lawrence, who says he’s fearful of what the crisis means for remote Indigenous communities.    The next few weeks will be critical. Today on The Briefing, regional Australia’s race against Delta.    TODAY'S HEADLINES US confirms August 31 withdrawal from Afghanistan States firm up borders to battle Delta NSW’s hospitals at breaking point; HSC delay considered Aussies score first gold medals at Paralympics Kanye West changing his name Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal government has introduced a new rule requiring Australians who live overseas to apply to return.  One of our listeners asked us to get to the bottom of the story.       We’re joined by Karen Andrews, the federal minister for Home Affairs who explains the reasons for the stricter rules.      Why are there stringent rules in place for Australians returning home ….and those who live overseas who want to come back home, to visit their loved ones?      TODAY'S HEADLINES Rolling Stones drummer Charlie Watts dead at 80 Taliban urges US to stop evacuating Afghans Sydney hospital forced into Covid ‘crisis’ mode NAPLAN results show little Covid impact on literacy and numeracy The Paralympics underway in Tokyo Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Curtis McGrath, OAM is an Australian para canoeist who took up canoeing competitively after having both of his legs amputated as a result of a mine blast while serving in the Australian Army in Afghanistan.    Curtis joins us just days before heading to Tokyo to defend his gold medal he won at the Rio Paralympics.    The Games begin tonight.    TODAY'S HEADLINES Stay the course: PM’s plan to re-open Australia Berejiklian: Covid-zero is unattainable Pfizer vaccine approved in the US Qantas vaccine incentive campaign The Paralympics kick off tonight in Tokyo Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Virginia Giuffre, one of Jeffrey Epstein's longtime accusers, is suing Prince Andrew, saying the royal sexually assaulted her when she was 17. Giuffre, who now lives in Australia, filed a civil suit in the Manhattan federal court. She claims she was forced to have sex with Prince Andrew on three occasions at properties owned by Epstein.   Adam Klasfeld is a journalist and managing editor at Law & Crime,he also hosts a law/crime podcast called ‘Objection’.  Adam joins us to talk about the case and how it’s likely to play out in court.  Guiffre is suing under a New York State law permitting alleged victims of childhood sexual abuse to file civil claims that might otherwise be blocked by statutes of limitations.   Reports out of the UK say the prince could be served the papers personally as early as this weekend.    TODAY'S HEADLINES WA Premier blames NSW for Covid crisis New restrictions begin today across NSW Border clash completes weekend of protests 300 Australians evacuated and security warnings issued at Kabul Airport Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2011, Turia Pitt was competing in an ultramarathon through Western Australia's Kimberley region, when she was trapped in a bushfire. She suffered burns to 65 percent of her body.Turia defied doctors’ expectations to not only survive but to thrive. Today she is a best-selling author, podcaster, motivational speaker and mum. She sits down with Jamila Rizvi to talk about how her accident set her on a new path of success, rehabilitation, building a family and how she’s beaten her crippling fear of public speaking. Check out Turia Pitt's new podcast: 'Turia Pitt Is Hard Work'! THE WEEKEND LIST with Tait McGregor: Watch: Ted Lasso (Apple TV+) Watch: Question Everything (ABC TV and ABC iView) Do: Order hot chocolate from the Yarra Valley Hot Chocolate Festival Listen: When Facing The Things We Turn Away From by Luke Hemmings See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australian comedian Sam Simmons was feeling like the rest of Aussies in lockdown....a little bored, lonely and sad.  So, he decided to do something about it.    He’s taking calls from random strangers each day – what he calls ‘talksies’, and he’s changing peoples’ lives.  Between midday and 1pm AEST each day, he takes calls on 0431 281 879.      On today’s Briefing, what an extroverted introvert does in lockdown.    TODAY'S HEADLINES PM Morrison says Aussies will reunite for Christmas  Glimmer of hope for NSW hospitality industry  Taliban stopping Australians from leaving Kabul  AstraZeneca vaccine renamed   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Taliban has stormed back to power in Afghanistan.  The images of people falling from aircraft this week have left the world in shock.   Heston Russell is a retired major who served in four tours to Afghanistan with the 2nd Commando Regiment.  He joins us to talk about what it means to ex-servicemen and women who now watch on as their dedication and commitment amounts to nothing.   Glenn Kolomeitz is a lawyer and former Lieutenant Colonel, who also served in Afghanistan.  He represents more than 700 Afghan civilians who worked with the allied forces.  They’re now on a Taliban kill list.   On today’s Briefing, why is Australia washing its hands of its responsibilities....to its veterans...and the Afghan people who served alongside them?   TODAY'S HEADLINES More flights to Afghanistan after chaos leaves evacuees stranded  John Howard defends Afghan invasion as fight against terror, slams Western withdrawal NSW Government defends lockdown measures as cases soar Fears Melbourne numbers will rise after run of mysterious cases R Kelly trial underway in NY   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Taliban stormed into the Afghan capital Kabul at the weekend, just days after allied troops retreated from the city.   We're joined by Sharif Safi, co-founder of the Kabul Peace Forum, an Afghan man in Kabul facing a grim reality.   He's been in Kabul this week ...and is speaking to us from his home just outside the city.   He’s in hiding and fearing for his life.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Taliban promise rights for women, no support for terror in new Afghanistan ADF teams to western NSW as regional Covid cases grow National lockdown for New Zealand after new case detected BHP sells oil and gas business   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia had its first recession in almost 30 years last year, as the Covid-19 pandemic wreaked havoc around the world.   We made a quick recovery, but is the Delta variant and the lockdowns it’s causing around the nation putting that at risk?   Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg joins us to explain the economic impact of Delta and what the government’s doing to support livelihoods and help us open back up.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Several dead following chaotic scenes at Kabul airport as UN intervenes Melbourne lockdown tightened, extended as Premier blasts rule-breakers Deadliest day of NSW outbreak as cases rise in the regions Questions over Federer future after withdrawal from US Open   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Sydney Delta outbreak paralysing Australia’s largest city started in the East, so why is it in the west and south-west that the impact’s been felt the hardest?  Is it the culture?  The landscape?  Or a combination of both?    We’re joined by Bashar Hanna, long-time Fairfield resident and President of Australian Mesopotamian Cultural Association; and Professor Ben Harris-Roxas, Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer in community health at UNSW, who lives in one of the locked-down areas.    How and why has the Delta variant exploded in western Sydney?      TODAY'S HEADLINES Taliban on the brink of victory in Afghanistan as President flees country Young Sydneysiders to be prioritised in Poland Pfizer purchase Victoria battling mystery cases in final week of lockdown Haitians scramble to search and rescue ahead of tropical storm New rules for Sydney as cases continue to grow   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amani Haydar lost her mother in a brutal act of violence, perpetrated by her father, in March of 2015.   She was five months pregnant with her first baby at the time. The horror of that experience shaped Amani’s own perception of how she wanted to mother, and how she had been mothered.   Amani spent much of the two years between her mother’s death and her father’s trial, in a daze. She said she hated her father for what he’d stolen from her and that her pain might have become unbearable were it not for her art.   Jamila Rizvi discusses her career change from a commercial litigator to artist and author, generational trauma and the events that turned Amani’s world upside down.    THE WEEKEND LIST with Tait McGregor: Listen: If This Isn’t Nice, I Don’t Know What Is by Still Woozy Watch: Drag Race España (Stan) Watch: The Act (Binge) Do: Melbourne Writers Festival (3 – 12 September) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Millions of Australians are in lockdown and wondering how they’re going to survive, mentally and financially.  We asked our social media followers to send in their questions and we asked an expert to answer them.   Dr Jo Mitchell is a clinical psychologist from Melbourne.  Dr Jo provides practical and tangible advice on how we can navigate the weeks ahead.   Join us on the Briefing couch as we discuss ways to manage the ever-increasing pressure of lockdowns.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Canberra enters first lockdown in more than a year NSW asks for extra troops as restrictions tighten Workplace regulator paves the way for mandatory jabs Afghan army chief sacked, Taliban advance on Aussie base Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The United Nations’ International Panel on Climate Change has released its latest report on the future of the planet – and it’s not good news.   Professor Will Steffen is a climate change expert and researcher at the Australian National University, Canberra and Councillor on the Climate Council.  Professor Will takes us through what the new report means for Australia – and what Australia should be doing to reduce emissions.   Are we right to point the finger at big polluters like China and India?  Should we be doing more as a first world country to help developing nations reach the world’s goals?  The answer is yes.    In this Briefing, what the IPCC’s new report means for Australia.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Swathes of regional NSW put into lockdown Lockdown lifted in Cairns, extended in Victoria AOC condemns double quarantine for SA Olympians US wins right to appeal evidence in Assange case Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

China has trumpeted their suppression of Covid-19 since the virus first emerged within their own borders and are now locking down on Delta, but are they doing as well as they seem?   Bill Birtles is the ABC’s China correspondent and up until last year he was living in Beijing.  He was in Wuhan, at the virus’ ground zero, as Covid spread around the world.   Bill’s back in Australia but still covering China - we thought we’d check into find out whether a recent flare up of delta cases... will force china to change its covid strategy?     Bill Birtles’ book is The Truth About China.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Melbournians await lockdown verdict, with extension likely NSW authorities admit too late to move on Western Sydney spread Andrew Cuomo resigns as Governor of New York PM hits out at China as world leaders target coal in wake of IPCC report Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The world watched on as Australia’s Ariarne Titmus and the USA’s Katie Ledecky prepared to battle it out in the women’s 200m and 400m freestyle events at the Tokyo Olympics.  Ledecky is regarded as the greatest female swimmer of all time.    Could the 20-year-old Ariarne Titmus beat the queen of the pool.  Yes!!    Ariarne joins us this morning from Howard Springs in the Northern Territory where she’s spending two weeks in Covid quarantine.    TODAY'S HEADLINES UN warns crucial climate threshold closer than ever in global warming report More NSW regions in lockdown as regional VIC rules lifted Moderna vaccine receives official approval R. Kelly trial begins in New York Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Being the son of a rugby league legend didn’t quite fit with Brandon Jack.  His new book ‘28’ delves deep into the search for his own identity while living a life that was imagined for him. He didn't really fit that life.   The book is so much more than a football memoir….it’s a snapshot of the professional sport psyche. It’s full of vivid details of life at the fringe, and memories of binge-drinking into oblivion as an escape during his playing days at the Sydney Swans.   Brandon talks about many of the things the rest of us try to hide.  The book is about family, ambition, ability and the search for love.     TODAY'S HEADLINES Australia’s first drive-thru vax site to open in Melbourne Lockdown in Cairns as restrictions lifted in south-east QLD Moderna vaccine to be approved for use in Australia Tokyo Games wind up with closing ceremony Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Podcast aficionados will know Jacob Stanley as the co-host of Just The Gist with Rosie Waterland. But before his media life, he was the Head of Learning and Development at the beauty juggernaut Mecca, traveling the world for makeup.   For the past year and a half, he’s been podcasting on the road as he chasing his travel bug nomadically around Australia. He talks to Jamila Rizvi from the canopies of a Far North Queensland rainforest about his adaptable travel, the beauty industry, losing loved ones and parenthood.    THE WEEKEND LIST with Tait McGregor:  Watch: The White Lotus (Binge)  Read: Media Tarts: How the Australian Press Frames Female by Julia Baird  Listen: The Feast EP by Sir Archer (thanks for the recommendation listener Sue Margaret!)  Podcast: Ladies We Need To Talk (ABC Radio) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you concerned about media experts getting lots of media airtime to talk about Covid-19. but getting it wrong, often being way too pessimistic?  It feels like it’s impossible to filter out all the white noise to get to the facts we need to make an informed decision.   Dr Nick Coatsworth was the Deputy CMO for six months, he’s an infectious disease expert and the Director of Medical Services, Canberra Health Services. He wrote an op ed piece recently calling out his colleagues and other experts for expressing opinions not fact.   So where does the truth lie?  How do we strike a balance in the age of mass media and social media, so we can make informed decisions individually and as a country?  Dr Nick gives us the answers.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Victoria joins Sydney, Brisbane in lockdown Sydney lockdown expanded to Newcastle and Hunter Hillsong leader vows to return to Australia to fight charges $1 billion from Commonwealth for Closing The Gap More gold up for grabs as Australia records most successful games ever Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

News broke this week that a US company had made a $39 billion bid for Australian firm, Afterpay.  It is the biggest business deal in the history of the Australian Stock Exchange.   A company that is created and then grows massively in a short amount of time is called a ‘unicorn’.  Jonathan Shapiro and James Eyers are reporters for the Australian Financial Review and the authors of ‘Buy Now, Pay Later’, a new book on the Afterpay phenomenon.  They join us to explain how and why so much wealth been created so quickly despite many initially saying the company was overhyped and overvalued.   On today’s Briefing, we learn how the company was created and how it grew so big so fast…..and made a lot of people very rich in the process.  Those who were lucky enough to discover the elusive unicorn.    TODAY'S HEADLINES QLD authorities suggest lockdown extension may be needed Expert coalition calls for AZ uptake, warns Australia doomed to continued lockdowns Commonwealth defends commuter car park scheme Medals on offer in hockey and soccer after sailing/running Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

TODAY'S HEADLINES PM unveils vaccine threshold, admits need for restrictions NSW sets vaccination goal for lifting restrictions Wuhan back in lockdown amid Delta chaos Olympic finals for Kookaburras and Boomers Payphones to become free Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tokyo Games has been Australia’s most successful Olympics in the pool ever, with nine gold medals.  In Rio, five years ago, we won three.  In London, we won just one.    The Australian swimming team has always been about the men – but in Tokyo, eight out of nine medals were won by female swimmers... which got us to number two in the world... behind the US with 11 gold... and 30 medals in total compared to our 20.   Seven’s Nathan Templeton was poolside all week.  He was the first person they spoke to after winning their events.   So how did we do it? How did our female swimmers take us back to our best?   TODAY'S HEADLINES Children to undergo testing as students form majority of QLD cases Labor and government push for different vaccine incentives Records broken on Square-Afterpay purchase Matildas out of Olympics after loss to Sweden Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ampol is sponsoring Surf Lifesaving Australia.  The giant oil company says its money will go to saving lives and its name will appear on the sleeves of surf club members on beaches right across Australia this summer.   The wider surfing community says the clubs should not be taking money from oil companies that contribute to global warming.  Sean Doherty is Chairperson of Surfrider Australia.  He says he understands why Surf Lifesaving Australia is taking the money, but it’s not a good look.   Social media erupted last month with people slamming Ampol AND Surf Lifesaving Australia.  We make sense of the debate in today’s Briefing.  If you have a view, join the discussion on Instagram.   TODAY'S HEADLINES NSW pushes vaccine drive and eased restrictions for August Missing link in SE QLD cases troubles authorities on second day of lockdown Sky News banned from YouTube Australia’s most successful day at Olympics ever Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Osher Günsberg is a familiar face on Australian television, having hosted Australian Idol, The Bachelor franchise and Masked Singer Australia.   However, off-screen, Osher is a much more complicated and complex man. He talks openly with Jamila Rizvi about his struggles with alcoholism and depression, finding spiritual connections in changing his name, his family life both now and growing up; as well as giving us in inside into The Bachelor.    THE WEEKEND LIST with Tait McGregor: Watch: Gossip Girl reboot (Binge) Watch: Never Have I Ever (Netflix) Listen: The Story of Hugo EP by JAWNY Do: Order a fancy meal from Providoor. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There is so much information circulating about Pfizer, AstraZeneca and vaccines in general.  No one knows what to believe.   Dr Nick Coatsworth is former Deputy Chief Medical Officer….and Executive Director of Medical Services at Canberra Hospital. He features in the federal government’s ads urging us to get vaccinated.   We invited our listeners to send in their questions and Dr Nick has answered them.  Here are the answers to the questions that need asking.     TODAY'S HEADLINES Troops called onto Sydney streets after record number of cases Experts release vaccine modelling to National Cabinet First images of jailed Australian in Myanmar Aussie track and field athletes cleared following Covid scare Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of our listeners asked us to do an episode on the Friendlyjordies story. Friendlyjordies is Youtube star, Jordan Shanks - a 31-year-old from Sydney.  He started his satirical YouTube channel eight years ago, has half a million subscribers and has racked up 135m views. He’s part comedian part political commentator   Friendlyjordies published a series of videos personally attacking the NSW deputy premier John Barilaro.  Shanks is now being sued for defamation and his producer, Kristo Langker, has been charged with stalking Mr Barilaro.  The producer was arrested by the NSW Police Fixated Persons Squad.   We’re joined by Dr Keiran Hardy, counter-terrorism law and policy expert and lecturer at Griffith University to explain the fixated persons factor; and Michael McGowan, journalist at The Guardian who has covered developments in the Shanks/Langker cases.    What’s the story with Friendlyjordies?   TODAY'S HEADLINES Sydney suburbs put under strict rules as lockdown is extended Commonwealth boosts and expands emergency support payments  $35 million payout for NT child detention inmates Record Olympic haul for Aussies in Tokyo Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia is currently in the middle of a massive timber shortage.  It means the booming construction industry has had to hit the brakes.   Angela Lillicrap, Chief Economist with the Housing Industry Association explains the reasons for the shortage; Mark Swadling from Sydney’s Swadling Timbers explains what it means for the industry; and Andrew Page, a builder tells us what it means for tradies and their customers.   Small businesses across Australia are already on their knees in the wake of the pandemic, but could a timber shortage, attributed to things beyond the industry’s control, put even more pressure on tradies and the industry in general?   TODAY'S HEADLINES Greater Sydney lockdown to be extended by four weeks NSW opens AstraZeneca doses to all adults Covid breach from ship crew at Perth hospital More swimming wins up for grabs after historic surfing competition Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump is back on the hustings in the US. He’s talking up his chances of reclaiming the White House.   So, how likely is he to run again in 2024?  Does he have the money?  Does he have the support?  Could one of his family members bump him from the top of the ballot paper?     Ron Elving, is Senior Editor and correspondent on the Washington desk for NPR News.  He breaks down the likelihood of Trump running again in 2024.  What are the obstacles and could legal action derail Trump's campaign.   TODAY'S HEADLINES VIC and SA lockdowns to ease tonight NSW police issue warning over second planned protest Sexual harassment training for politicians following workplace review BRS trial hears detail of villager death Titmus and Ledecky prepare for next pool showdow Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Next month, Independent NSW MP Alex Greenwich will introduce a voluntary assisted dying bill to the state’s parliament.  Under the proposal, adults with a terminal illness that will cause death within six months, can access assisted dying with the approval of two doctors.    Like recently adopted legislation in South Australia and Queensland, health practitioners can conscientiously object or decline to participate in assisted dying for any reason... including religion. Alex joins us to talk through the legislation.    Nikki Gemmel has a strong view on the debate because her mum took her own life because of chronic pain.  Nikki’s a well known author and wrote a book about her mum’s story called After.   On today’s Briefing, we talk about bringing dignity to dying.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Police tracking down anti-lockdown protestors NSW expected to extend Sydney lockdown after more deaths PM pushes AZ vaccine after ATAGI changes advice Olympic showdown: Titmus Vs Ledecky   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Comedian Nazeem Hussain became a household name after reaching the final of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here, made his American TV debut sharing a screen with Bill Nye and has a comedy special on Netflix.   But Nazeem never meant to become an international comedy success as Jamila Rizvi finds out. The two talk about Nazeem’s heritage, growing up in Melbourne’s Muslim community and reconnecting with his Sri Lankan roots; life as a dad and rubbing shoulders with A-Listers like Kevin Hart and Dave Chappelle on wild nights out.   THE WEEKEND LIST with Tait McGregor: Listen: F*CK LOVE 3: OVER YOU EP by The Kid LAROI Cook: Steve Manfredi’s Hunza Pie (Good Food) Cook: Hetty McKinnon’s Peanut Butter Noodles With Cucumbers (Bon Appétit) Watch: The Bold Type (Stan) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Tokyo Olympics is finally here!  The pandemic meant the Games were delayed by a year….and there were times this year when it looked like they might not go ahead.   We meet two young Australians hoping to win gold in their respective sports.  Australian Hockey midfielder, Renee Taylor; and Australian freestyle BMX rider Natalya Diehm have trained for years for the opportunity to compete at the Olympic Games.   Today’s Briefing is an opportunity to meet two young Aussies giving all for their country in their chosen sports.   Keep an eye out for Renee and Natalya as they give their best in their bid for Olympic glory.    TODAY'S HEADLINES State and federal leaders back the AZ jab for under 40s QLD closes off border to all of NSW China rejects WHO investigation into lab leak theory John Coates hits out at “mansplaining” accusations Upset win for Australian soccer ahead of opening ceremony   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Australian music industry is on its knees.  Artists and promoters have had gigs and festivals cancelled as a result of the most recent Covid lockdowns.   Reuben Styles, one half of Peking Duk, joins us to talk about the impact on local artists.  Many are desperate to get back to what they do best….and to make matters worse, they’re seeing sports venues packed to the rafters.   As a means to make a difference, the famous Australian music family, Alberts, has created Alberts Impact Ventures’ fund to help fund music projects to try to help kick start the sector.  We’re joined by investment manager Lisa Fedorenko; and head of strategy Glenn Bartlett to learn what strategies they have, to bring the industry back to life.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Brisbane confirmed as host for 2032 Olympics PM admits problems with vaccine rollout, pushes for change in AZ advice SA virus cluster doubles as NSW construction industry calls for restart UNESCO reef decision delayed as UK cities stripped of heritage status Dozens die in China subway flood   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has highlighted NSW’s role in seeding the outbreak that’s led to Victoria’s current lockdown and many Melburnians have expressed anger at Sydney for not containing the outbreak.   We’re joined by the much-loved Melbourne musician Rebecca Barnard who is furious because the local music industry was just starting to find its feet again.   Raffael Epstein from ABC Melbourne says the argy bargy between the two cities is a snapshot of our overall frustration.  We all want someone to blame.   How much did Sydney’s Covid strategy contribute to Melbourne’s fifth lockdown chaos.     TODAY'S HEADLINES Almost 14 million in lockdown as SA fights virus spread Victoria and regional NSW hit by new lockdowns Crown labelled unsuitable to run Melbourne casino Olympic competition gets underway as Brisbane prepares for 2032 bid Amazon’s Bezos flies to space   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

UFOs are back on the radar in the US.   On June 25, the Director of National Intelligence did put out a report on UFOs... but they call them something slightly different. The report was titled... Preliminary Assessment: Unidentified Aerial Phenomena.   The report looked at 144 sightings.... and follows on from a move by the department of defence in April last year to declassify three UAP videos taken by Navy pilots.  Professor Chris Impey, a Professor in Astronomy at the University in Arizona, author and former Vice President of the American Astronomical Society.   So what did the report find?  Did the report simply leave more questions unanswered?  Tom and Annika open the US government’s X Files on this morning’s Briefing.   TODAY'S HEADLINES VIC Premier expected to reveal length of lockdown Mother of Sydney removalists latest covid victim Australia joins other nations in rare China hacking condemnation Former NSW ministers Eddie Obeid, Ian Macdonald found guilty of conspiracy   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today, July 19, is Freedom Day in the UK. Prime Minister Boris Johnson sold it as the day Great Britain “goes back to life as it was before Covid”. Our team reached out to a handful of Brits who disagree with Mr Johnson.   We’re also joined by Bevan Shields, UK correspondent for The Age and Sydney Morning Herald who says life is definitely returning to normal; and Martin McKee, Professor of European public health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine who says it’s a disastrous idea.   What will life look like in the UK from today? What can Australia learn as more than 10 million Australians remain in lockdown? Is Boris Johnson’s Freedom Day a winner….or will it be a massive loser…?   TODAY'S HEADLINES Decision on Victorian lockdown expected as regional cases grow Construction stopped, public transport cut in Sydney Covid fight QLD Premier Palaszczuk goes to Tokyo as Olympic cases rise Senior UK politicians in Covid isolation ahead of Freedom Day Port Arthur movie recognised at Cannes   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kate Ellis was elected to the seat of Adelaide at the age of 27, and held the title of the youngest person to become a federal minister at 30. After working in Parliament House for 12 years before leaving the profession to prioritise her family life and to write her book Sex, Lies and Question Time: Why the Successes and Struggles of Women in Australia's Parliament Matter to Us All.Jamila Rizvi talks to Kate about her career in politics and quickly moving up the ranks, the experiences she uncovered in her book, motherhood and more.   THE WEEKEND LIST with Tait McGregor:   Watch: Bo Burnham: Inside (Netflix) Cook: Cannelloni of silverbeet with burnt butter and parmesan (Good Food) Listen: 6 Of A Billion EP by Claire Rosinkranz   Let us know who you'd love to see on the show! Send us a message on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ash Barty and Dylan Alcott kept Australia mesmerised last weekend when they won their respective Wimbledon titles.  Both are bona fide champions….but how do they get themselves in shape mentally?   Ben Crowe works with both Ash and Dylan. He’s their mindset coach.  He gets them in the right frame of mind to face their opposition….and their fears.   So what can YOU learn from someone like Ben?  Will you make a ‘to be’ list? Or a ‘to do’ list?   The episode of the Briefing is all about self belief.  Part of the challenge of being a champion is about champion learnings. Learn from the best.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Melbourne wakes to first day of fifth lockdown PM to take extended funding proposal to National Cabinet Floods claim more than 40 lives in Germany Britney Spears wins right to choose lawyer Australian swimmers don sauna suits to prepare for Tokyo humidity   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

No one likes having difficult conversations.  It’s easier NOT to talk about things like death, sex and money.  But we DO need to have those conversations   Anna Sale is an author and host of WNYC’s podcast, Death, Sex & Money.  Her new book is Let’s Talk About Hard Things: Death, Sex & Money.  Anna tells us how and why we need to have conversations that make us uncomfortable.   You’ll learn a lesson or two via this podcast as Tom and Katrina take a deep dive on the conversations you need to have ….to help you navigate the difficult times life can throw at you.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Victoria reintroduces mask rules after new outbreaks New South Wales sets target for lifting lockdown Maroons save series from whitewash Cuban anti-government protests spread to US   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The nation is watching Sydney right now as it struggles to get this Covid-19 outbreak under control.  For people in Melbourne, it's looking eerily similar to the second wave that sent the Victorian capital into 112 days of lockdown last winter...     There is speculation Sydney’s so-called ‘lockdown lite’ is to blame.   We’re joined by Juliette   O’Brien – a digital and data journalist who established covid19data.com.au,   the definitive Covid-19 tracking website, who takes us through the chronology of the outbreak.    How did this outbreak blow away the expectations of the state who’d been labeled the gold standard for managing covid risk?   TODAY'S HEADLINES New financial support template paves the way for extended lockdown New vaccine advice for hotspot residents Chinese spy ship returns to Queensland coast South Africa violence claims 45 lives IOC slips up in message or reassurance to Japan   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of our listeners sent us a message asking us to do an episode on whether Botox is dangerous.  We know it’s become incredibly popular since it was approved for cosmetic use 20 years ago    We’re joined by Dr Cara McDonald, a dermatologist from Sunbury in Victoria.  Dr Cara tells us what Botox is, why it’s so popular….and the best way to make the most of what it has to offer.   The college of cosmetic surgery in Australia puts the spending on cosmetic procedures at more than one billion dollars... with around a third of that on Botox.  And increasingly...it’s being used by younger Australians in an effort to prevent aging.  Is Botox dangerous….?      TODAY'S HEADLINES Cash support for NSW as lockdown likely to be extended AstraZeneca advice remains unchanged VIC and SA on alert over Covid removalists England manager, Prince William condemn racial football abuse Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mariam Dabboussy was married in 2011 and she and her husband went on a holiday in 2015.  Her husband took her into Syria and joined the ISIS fight to establish a caliphate.  He was killed just before their second child was born.  Mariam was subsequently married off twice more.   Her father, Kamalle Dabboussy joins us to tell his daughter’s story – and to talk about trying to bring his daughter and now three grandchildren home.    It’s a heartbreaking story of the plight of a young Australian family – and a failure of government leaving helpless women and children to suffer in a camp in northern Syria, desperate to come home, even if they have to face the consequences for their actions.   TODAY'S HEADLINES NSW cases likely to hit 100 New vaccine ad campaign begins as deaths increase Government confirms all ADF troops out of Afghanistan Richard Branson goes to space England prepares for historic final Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A big episode for a big name! Dannii Minogue is one of the country's golden girls, with Australians growing up with her on Young Talent Time before she cracked the international market as a pop success; and now as a mum, podcaster and fashion designer, while gracing our screens as a television show judge.   Amidst her astronomical fame has been turmoil, from relentless paparazzi snapping her every move to being caught in the 2011 UK phone hacking scandal and being robbed of important personal moments.    Jamila Rizvi sat down with Dannii to discuss her life as she blossomed into fame and how that now impacts her son Ethan, landing a record deal as a teenager, the devastating phone scandal, and her new LiSTNR show, The 90s with Dannii Minogue.    THE WEEKEND LIST with Tait McGregor:  Watch: The OC (Stan) Watch: Amy Tan: Unintended Memoir (Netflix) Read: The Success Experiment by Lillian Ahenkan   Let us know what your list suggestions and guests you'd love to see on the show! Send us a message on Instagram at @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Covid 19 has made avoiding plastics a lot harder; cafes stopped taking keep cups, there was an increase in food and grocery deliveries - all wrapped in plastic and use of disposal PPE gear spiked … for obvious reasons.     On today’s Briefing - are we losing the fight on plastics? We’re joined by Kate Noble,  World Wildlife Fund Australia’s No Plastics in Nature Policy Manager to discuss if we’re doing enough in the fight to reduce plastics and their impact on the environment.   In the last few years each state and territory has progressed at a different pace.... bringing in bans on items like straws and plastic cutlery.   Are we doing enough?     TODAY'S HEADLINES NSW leaders split on virus strategy as police crack down on Sydney No fans at Tokyo Olympics after fourth state of emergency Ash Barty through to Wimbledon finals Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today’s briefing - the vaping problem in schools. Teachers and parents are extremely worried that school students are illegally dealing vapes... and that more and more students are taking it up.    There are reports that increasingly younger students, even primary students, are taking it up.  Rudy and Maya, year 12 students give us their first-hand experience.  We’re also joined by Craig Petersen, President of NSW Secondary Principals' Council; and drug and alcohol educator Paul Dillon.   Students are vaping inside the classroom... and it's spreading from the city to country schools.  Australia has relatively strict vaping laws, many say too strict because they restrict access to people that could use nicotine vapes as a way of quitting smoking.   So what’s the answer here?  Are our laws too lenient, or are vapes the answer to reducing our reliance on nicotine…?   TODAY'S HEADLINES Sydney lockdown extended as big business invited to join vaccine rollout State of emergency in Haiti after President assassinated Trump to sue Facebook, Twitter and Google US wins right to appeal Assange decision Historic first for Olympic flag bearers Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2019, Bridie Jabour wrote a piece for the Guardian about the malaise of millennials.  She found herself and her friends talking about the painful, protracted end of their adolescence.    They're looking at their lives and thinking: 'Is this it? Have I chosen the right place to live, the right job, the right partner? Am I, perhaps, not as special as I thought?'   The article went viral and Bridie decided the time had come to write a book about her generation - those much-maligned millennials.   After all, this generation is coming of age in a unique set of social and economic circumstances, including precarious work, delayed baby-making, rising singledom, a heating planet, loss of religion, increased unstable housing and, now, a pandemic. Today’s Briefing is all about Millennial malaise.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Lockdown extension expected as Sydneysiders await confirmation Under-40s could get mRNA jabs by September Reserve Bank to ease back on easy money Barty through to semi after All-Australian Wimbledon showdown Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Joanna, a Briefing listener, wrote to us via Instagram to ask us to do a story on the discovery of First Nation’s children in Canada.  Hundreds of bodies have been found in unmarked graves.   We’re joined by Kerry Benjoe - a journalist from the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and a former residential school student; and Fiona Cornforth, CEO of The Healing Foundation.  Kerry tells us first-hand what it was like in the schools, and Fiona tells us if there are parallels with Australia and our Stolen Generation.   Sadly, there are many parallels.  This is a very important story, particularly given it’s NAIDOC Week.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Inquiries won’t change parliament - Julia Banks $50,000 fines and suspensions for NRL partygoers Gaming inspectors stopped from investigating Crown Thousands of Afghan troops flee Taliban as visa concerns grow Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the last two weeks dozens of people from Afghanistan have been evacuated to Australia because the war is ending - many had worked as interpreters for Australian troops.    Harry Moffitt worked alongside these local interpreters in the theatre of war.  He says we’re not getting enough of them out... and we’re not getting them out fast enough. Glenn Kolomeitz works with the government to help the interpreters and their families with the paperwork and admin.   Today’s briefing... the race to save these Aghan interpreters from the Taliban who are taking more and more territory as international troops leave.   TODAY'S HEADLINES Family angry after Covid returns to aged care in Sydney Government uncertain on vaccine threshold and Pfizer for under 40s Bad weather hampers rescues following Japan mudslide US authorities prepare to demolish collapsed condo ahead of tropical storm 45 dead in Philippines Air Force plane crash   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Clarke has been called Australia’s controversial cricket captain. This kid from the western suburbs, with his blonde tipped hair, famous girlfriends and love of fast cars, took the conservative cricketing world by surprise. But it was what he achieved on the field that captured the country’s attention and inspired another generation of wannabe cricket stars.Jamila Rizvi talks to the cricket-captain-turned-commentator-and-radio-host about life as a professional athlete, retiring from the pitch and life as a father. THE WEEKEND LIST: Watch: Morning Wars (Apple TV+) Cook: Andy Baraghani’s I-Can’t Believe-It’s-Vegetarian-Ramen (Bon Appetit) Listen (podcast): Soft Voice (QCODE) Watch: A Suitable Boy (Netflix) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this Briefing we’re going to take you into the world of Britney Spears - from where it all began to now - where she’s fighting to free herself from a 13-year conservatorship that she says is abusive.    Last week in a 23-minute statement she told a US judge that under the conservatorship she had been drugged, forced to perform against her will and made to continue using birth control despite wanting to have children. Spencer Kornhaber from The Atlantic joins us to talk through exactly what conservatorship is, and what Britney’s future holds.   Last week’s hearing was the first time the star has spoken publicly about the conservatorship.   So what is this American legal arrangement called a conservatorship... and should Britney be freed of it?   TODAY'S HEADLINES Leaders to discuss how to end lockdowns as federal-state stoush continues  Judge denies Britney conservatorship plea Government refuses to reveal if last Australians have left Afghanistan Trump Organisation chief surrenders to police Harry and William unveil Diana statue in London   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many Australians are addicted to their phones.  We spend countless hours staring at our devices. A recent Monash University study found 43.3 per cent of respondents spent over three hours a day on their phone! The same study measured nomophobia (no mobile phone phobia) finding 99.2% of users have some fear of being without their phone. Jenni Gritters is a US-based journalist who ditched her smartphone for a dumb phone.  EFTM.com's Trevor Long is also the Today Show’s tech expert who takes us through strategies to get us off our phones. Do you check your phone first thing each day? A Deloitte study found 80% of us do.  In this Briefing, how do you get this technology under control?”   TODAY'S HEADLINES Bill Cosby to walk free after conviction overturned Medical authorities accuse politicians of mangling vaccine message Fears of new Sydney Covid cluster UN warns trillions of dollars damage to tourism from pandemic French police arrest sign woman at centre of Tour de France crash   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Three of Singapore’s most senior government officials wrote an article in the national newspaper, the Straits Times, to say the island nation was considering major changes to how it deals with Covid-19.   They suggested it was time to start “living with Covid”, and it was time to stop reporting daily cases, to get back to going to major events – and basically to treat Covid-19 like any other flu.   Chris Barrett is the South-East Asia correspondent for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age.  He’s watched developments unfold while based in Singapore.   What can Australia learn from Singapore’s move to re-think Covid?  And how close is the world to living with the reality that Covid-19 is not going away soon?   TODAY'S HEADLINES Medical experts surprised by AstraZeneca decision Parts of QLD in lockdown as NSW avoids viral surge Companies to be enlisted to speed up vaccine rollout Audit critical of Commonwealth govt car park funding scheme Tour de France riders stage protests over unsafe routes   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  YouTube: http://bit.ly/TheBriefingSUBSCRIBE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.