The Briefing

Fast fashion is the rise of cheap, trendy, affordable and accessible clothes that turn catwalk trends into bargain buys in a matter of weeks. And while more fashion choices might seem like a good thing for consumers, it’s a bad thing for the planet. The average Australian buys 27 kilograms of clothes every year, and we throw away 23 of those, so 85 percent of what we buy ends up in landfill.   On today's Briefing we ask: Just how much is fast fashion destroying the planet and what can we do about it? To help answer this question we speak to Clare Press – Sustainable fashion expert and presenter of the Wardrobe Crisis podcast and Lucianne Tonti, founder of sustainable fashion showroom and consultancy Le 31.   In today's news headlines: Trump refuses second debate, labelling his Covid diagnosis “a blessing from God” Labor’s budget reply has big focus on women, families and blue collar workers Senator Jacqui Lambie refuses to support increase in Uni Degree Costs   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Homeownership in Australia is declining, with the biggest drop happening for young people. But the good news to come out of the Federal Budget this week is that the Government has added an extra 10,000 places to its First Home Loan Deposit Scheme which allows singles or couples to buy their first home with a deposit of only five per cent and the government acting as guarantor for the loan. This gets rid of the need for lender's mortgage insurance.   Today we’re joined by Federal Minister for Housing Michael Sukkar to talk us through how the scheme works, and Brendan Coates from The Grattan Institute on whether he thinks the scheme will be enough to get young people into the housing market   In today's news headlines: Labor throws support behind tax cuts Some Uni course fees set climb after a minor party signed off on planned reforms Spike in Overseas Covid cases, while new cases in NSW cast doubt on QLD border to be reopened.   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The federal budget is usually handed down in May, but this year it was delayed while the government focused on the coronavirus outbreak and rethought their approach to an economy in big trouble. The government has now released its plans to reboot the economy in what is reported to be one of the most important federal budgets in Australia’s history.   So how does the government intend on spending our taxpayer dollars over the next four years and what does it mean for young people? Former Treasurer and Deputy Prime Minister Wayne Swan weighs in.   In today's news headlines: The Federal Budget has been handed down overnight, with a big focus on young people and small business Tax Cuts for 11 million Aussies Job Maker – Cash for bosses hiring unemployed workersMore help for First Home Buyers Donald Trump has stepped out of hospital    Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While countries like China, Italy, France, Spain were taking strict lockdown measures when the Pandemic struck, Sweden went out alone with a very different approach. People were still out in cafes, children were still going to school and there were very few facemasks.   Initially that seemed to be a disaster compared to their neighbouring countries, as their infection rate was high, their death rate was high and their economy went backwards. But six months down the track Sweden is not seeing the second wave that some other European countries are experiencing. So is the Swedish long game starting to pay off? Has their controversial pandemic plan worked?   To find out we're joined by Peter Lindgren, the managing director of the Swedish Institute for Health Economics and Lily, an Australia journalist who moved to Sweden several years ago.   In today's news headlines: Josh Frydenberg to hand down the Federal Budget tonight. Covid-positive Donald Trump could be discharged from hospital as soon as today, but some critics believe he’s sicker than he’s letting on. Cardinal George Pell’s lawyers call for an investigation after claims Vatican funds were used to pay lawyers for damning evidence   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today’s episode we get the latest sleep science on daylight saving. A peak medical body says daylight saving is bad for us, and the EU has voted to stop doing it from 2021. So is it time for Australia to get rid of it?   Last month the US American Academy of Sleep Medicine changed its position on daylight saving, coming out against it citing new research the health impacts of moving the clocks forward.  In Australia we’re already divided on it WA, NT and QLD don’t do it. while the rest of the country does.   So how damaging is it for our heath? Dr. Kannan Ramar President of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and Sleep Scientist Gemma Paech from the Sleep Foundation help explain.   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trump reportedly claimed $US70,000 in haircuts as part of millions in business expenses that have helped reduce his federal tax bill to just a few hundred dollars. An investigation by the New York Times exposed two decades of the Presidents tax returns, revealing he paid just $750 US in both 2016 and 2017, and paid no income tax in 10 of the past 15 years.   Trump's critics hope the leaked taxed returns will hurt the President’s chances when Americans go to the polls next months. It’s already come up as an issue in the first debate, but will it have any impact at the ballot box? We’re joined by Dr David Smith, Senior Lecturer in American Politics at the University of Sydney to find out why Trumps taxes are a big deal.     In today's news headlines: Trans-Tasman bubble inching closer Aged care royal commission: federal government’s Covid-19 response was “insufficient” Google to pay $1.4 billion after local news stoush   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we find out about the woman at the centre of one of the biggest crime scandals in Australian history. Last year it was revealed that Lawyer X was Nicola Gobbo: a prominent Melbourne lawyer who represented some of Melbourne’s biggest criminals and at the same time was giving information about them to the police.   The Lawyer X scandal could see some of Australia's most notorious criminals released from prison, and there’s concern that they might want Lawyer X dead, and that’s why she might have to spend the rest of her life in hiding. To explain this story we’re joined by Anthony Dowsley: the journalist who first broke the story for the Herald Sun in 2014.   In today's news headlines: Presidential debate format to be changed after “dumpster fire” spectacle $1.5 billion to boost Australian manufacturing Facebook to integrate Instagram, Messenger, Whatsapp   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s going on inside some of Australia’s most expensive schools? What kind of culture is being promoted? Should private schools review their culture? Are the high marks, fancy uniforms and big gymnasiums really worth it?   The recent muck up day scandal re-opens some of the debates about the problems with private schools elitist attitudes to people less fortunate, and unhealthy outdated attitudes towards women.  One voice that’s stood out in the public vs private school debate is Rob Sturrock who joins us on this episode. Rob is a former Shore student and author of Man Raises Boy: A revolutionary approach for fathers who want to raise kind, confident and happy sons.   In today's news headlines: PM flags international quarantine change Wet and stormy end to 2020 expected on Australia’s east coast Joe Biden and Donald Trump face off in the first Presidential debate   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For the last week, there has been an epic struggle of life and death on a remote wild part of the Tasmanian coast. 470 long-finned pilot whales were discovered beached around Macquarie Harbour and Ocean Beach near the Tasmanian town of Strahan. The tragic event stands as the largest whale stranding in Australian history.   Rescuers have managed to save 110 whales but sadly the rest are dead and are currently being disposed of. In this Briefing, we dive deep into why this mass beaching has happened and why we have intervened in this natural occurrence. Our guests are Dr Wally Franklin (Adjunct Fellow - Southern Cross University and Marine Scientist with The Oceania Project) and Tom Mountney (a salmon fisherman who’s been assisting with the rescue).   In today's news headlines: Police investigate after bushfire-ravaged town defrauded by conman Victoria’s case numbers fall to single digits Dreamworld convicted, fined $3.6 million for 2016 tragedy George Pell reportedly returning to the Vatican   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

175 years in a US prison: that’s the sentence Australian Wikileaks founder Julian Assange could be facing. Julian is currently in London with legal proceedings underway to decide whether or not he is extradited to the US to face espionage charges. In this episode we get you up to speed on Julian’s story so far, going back to 2010 when he and Wikileaks made headlines for the release of almost 400,000 classified US documents about the war in Iraq.   Today we find out what’s going on for Julian right now when we speak with Jen Robinson, his Australian lawyer in London who’s been working on the case the whole time. She joins us in the midst of the evidential stage of the extradition hearing.   We find out: His emotional and psychological state.  What is the argument they are making in this case? What would it take and what hope do they have of getting this UK court to refuse the US extradition order?  What happens if the UK refuses extradition what happens to Julian, and if they don’t what happens?  How does he want the Australian government to intervene?  Is there any hope that Trump could pardon Assange?  The timeline of the extradition and what the next few years look like for Julian and his legal team.   In today's news headlines: Restrictions ease in Melbourne Federal budget "bent, not broken" as JobKeeper wound back Trump’s US Supreme Court pick named   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On today's episode we look at the global campaign to strip Beijing of the Winter Olympics asking: Should a country have the privilege to host the Olympic Games if the government of that country is doing something harmful to its citizens?   Hosting the Olympics is a privilege and often a very positive PR moment for the host nation, however a group of human rights activists have delivered a joint letter to the International Olympic Committee calling for Beijing to be stripped of the Games over its crackdown on the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong and the detention of Uighurs, a Muslim minority. Should China be stripped of the games? Or is it too late given they were awarded back in 2015?   To answer this question we're joined by Sir Iain Duncan Smith (former leader of the British Conservative Party and founder of the The Inter-Parliamentary Alliance On China), Craig Foster (former Socceroos coach turned human rights activist), Dr Steve Georgakis (Senior Lecturer of pedagogy and sports studies, University of Sydney) and Federal MP Dave Sharma.   In today's news headlines: Victorian Premier to front hotel quarantine inquiry WA’s notorious Claremont serial killer found guilty New plan to slash home loan approval times   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There are 25,000 Australian’s wanting to come home from overseas and our Prime Minister wants them home by Christmas. But with limits on the number of people allowed home and into quarantine each week the airlines that are still flying can only bring in a fraction of the passengers they used to, so passengers are being charged first and business class tickets and those with economy seats are being bumped.   We’re joined by Aviation expert Neil Hansford to explain why that is happening, how will this situation change, and whether the 25,000 Australians be home by Christmas? We also speak to Nadine, an Aussie who came back from Portugal after forking out $15,000 for business class seats.   In today's news headlines: Charges laid in Breonna Taylor case Millions of Australians to get faster internet through NBN upgrade Sydney principal defends elite boys school after shocking scavenger hunt list   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Turia Pitt was 24 years old when she was caught in a grassfire while competing in an ultramarathon. She tried to outrun the flames but couldn’t. She suffered burns to 65% of her body and wasn’t expected to survive her injuries.   But Turia is proof that with the right mindset anything is possible. On today’s episode we find out what Turia’s tragedy taught her about happiness and why she‘s  happier now than she was before her accident.   Turia’s new book’s called Happy and other Ridiculous Aspirations couldn’t have come at a better time for many of us. Turia explains how we can use the challenges of 2020 to work out what actually makes us happy rather than what we thought made us happy, or what we thought defined our life.   In today's news headlines: SA opening to NSW from midnight tonight as QLD expands border bubble New international deal for Covid-19 vaccine Far-right terrorism now about a third of cases, ASIO says Australia’s Technology Roadmap for reducing carbon emissions   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The horrifying video of George Floyd being killed by a Minneapolis police officer in May sparked massive Black Lives Matter protests in America and around the world, including here in Australia. But another death that actually happened before that of Floyd’s, the police shooting of 26-year-old Breonna Taylor, continues to fuel BLM protests.   Who was Breonna Taylor? How has her death impacted the BLM movement? And why did the Louisville City Council pay her family a US$12m settlement last week? To answer these questions we speak to Michael Trautmann, investigative journalist with Kentucky’s Courier Journal paper to tell you what you need to know about this case.   In today's news headlines: Ellen DeGeneres returns after allegations of toxic workplace environment Accused paedophile principal cleared for extradition to Australia Most Victorians support Premier Daniel Andrews, poll finds Billions to reduce carbon emissions but no targets, federal government announces   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We look at the children and wives of the Australian men who went to fight with ISIS. 47 of their children and 20 ISIS brides are still alive and stuck in refugee camps in Syria that hold people displaced by Islamic State. Their families have been pleading with Australian government to bring them home, and so far they’ve been refused, despite other Western countries having taken their ISIS brides and their children home.   Laws were introduced that allowed Australia to take away the citizenship of someone who joined ISIS, plus other terror laws which means if these women return home they could potentially face hefty penalties. So should we bring them home and try them under those laws rather than leave them in Syria?   To help answer this question, we're joined by Professor Guy Goodwin-Gill, Professor of Law at UNSW and Acting Director of the Kaldor Centre for International Refugee Law. Our other guest is Matt Tinkler - Deputy CEO of Save the Children, an organisation working with women and children in the refugee camps.   In today's news headlines: Victoria “ahead of schedule” after 14 daily cases “Road to nowhere”: Labor lashes Scott Morrison for rejecting 2050 emissions target Two Republican Senators won’t back pre-election Ruth Bader Ginsberg replacement TikTok saved at the 11th hour, but another app is still being banned today   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At beginning of the pandemic in March we were hearing a lot about Europe, then in the following months the continent seemed to have the virus under control. Residents appeared to be enjoying the summer, travelling freely between countries. So have these lax attitudes contributed to Europe’s second wave? Last week the EU and Britain announced 41,000 fresh cases a day on average, however medical teams managing to keep the death rates lower during this second wave.   On today's episode we find out what has caused this second wave, how widespread mask use is in Europe, Sweden's approach to not lockdown and compare Australia’s approach to Europe. We’re joined by Martin McKee, professor of European public health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and also the former chair of the World Health Organisation’s European Advisory Committee on Health Research.    In today's news headlines: Jobless rate falls, defying all expectations Telehealth and home medication deliveries extended into next year Man charged with threatening to kill QLD Premier, Chief Health Officer Woman in her 20s wins entire $60 million Powerball   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Subscription-based social media site OnlyFans is booming during the pandemic with over 24 million users. So what exactly is it? and how does it work?   Being a new combination of porn and social media where subscribers pay a small monthly fee and content creators keep 80% profits, we find out whether it comes with some dangers. In this episode we’re joined by Renee Gracie, the former V8 racer who wasn’t making enough money in the sport, and is now making hundreds of thousands a month on OnlyFans posting explicit content.   In today's news headlines: Bid to bring more stranded Aussies home on track Renewables in line for federal funding boost, but there’s a catch Confirmed: illness that paused Oxford vaccine trial “unlikely” to be from shot   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Loneliness and learning to be happy alone are important things to work out in your 20s. 2020 has given many of us a chance to reflect on our lives. What decisions did we make as twenty-somethings to get us here and were they right?   The hosts of the pop culture podcast Shameless, Michelle Andrews and Zara McDonald, join us on todays episode to discuss why learning to be happy alone is one of life’s important lessons. They’ve written a book called The Space Between which is all about living in your 20s, figuring out who you are now and who you want to be, and the challenge of being alone.   In today's news headlines: Stranded Aussies could quarantine on Christmas Island Officer who stomped on man’s head stood down JK Rowling accused of Transphobia   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this day 20 years ago, the world was watching Sydney for the Olympic Opening Ceremony.  Today on The Briefing, we’re reliving the Sydney Olympic glory including some of the most iconic moments across the Games.   The Sydney 2000 Olympics were our biggest ever medal haul to date, so we ask if our sporting heyday is behind us? And how do we get back to our former sporting best? To answer these questions we're joined by Andrew Gaze (basketballer and flag bearer) and Kerri Pottharst (gold medalist in beach volleyball).   In today's headlines: Scott Morrison backs gas to bring down power bills SA to reopen to NSW, ACT as early as today QLD Chief Health Officer says death threats have taken an “enormous toll” Dad of three in an induced coma after alleged police head stomp   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

COVID deep cleaners are on the forefront of the fight against the virus spread. We take a deep dive into deep COVID cleaning and how it works. How does it differ to a regular clean? How long does a germ last? And what is turbo fogging? More importantly, we look at how deep we need to go to properly stop contamination.   To answer these questions we’re joined by Associate Professor Paul Griffin from the University of Queensland (Infectious Diseases Physician and Microbiologist) and Sandra Pankhurst, a trauma cleaner and owner of STC Services.   In today’s news headlines: Freedom closer for Victoria as restrictions ease After blaming Peter Dutton, revelations QLD requested Tom Hanks’ return California a “warzone” as wildfires ravage the state   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Year 12 is looking a bit different this year. Formals have been cancelled in Victoria and severely restricted in other states and territories. The official Schoolies on the Gold Coast has been canned and travel restrictions mean overseas gap years aren't possible.     On top of the social aspects of high school, academics have been hugely disrupted affecting students’ futures after graduation. To discuss Year 12 in this COVID nightmare we talk to a current student and Catriona Jackson (Universities Australia CEO) joins us to discuss how to make university entrance fair given everyone’s been affected differently.     In today's headlines: More than $200,000 raised to help dying Brisbane dad say goodbye to his kids Queensland Premier accuses Prime Minister of “worst bullying I’ve seen” Family of Australian men on capsized livestock ship plead with federal government to launch search Key Victorian MP calls for curfew to be dumped after revelations it was the Premier’s decision   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Victorian Premier Dan Andrews announced on Sunday harsh measures for the state’s pathway out of lockdown. Resentment to the strict approach is growing beyond protesters and is beginning to be questioned by those who accept the science, including our epidemiologists.   We talk to Federal Liberal MP and medical researcher Dr. Katie Allen about the lockdown roadmap and Victoria’s contact tracing, while epidemiologist Professor Catherine Bennett weighs in on the gaps in the state’s modelling scenarios.   In today's news headlines: Oxford University’s promising vaccine trial put on hold QLD accused of double standards after Tom Hanks return Large tiger shark caught in nets could be behind fatal Gold Coast attack Prime Minister tells TikTok to do better after viral death video   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last financial quarter, Australia experienced its biggest economic drop since the Great Depression, officially plunging the country into a recession. But what exactly does a recession mean and what impact does it have on our lives?   Economist writer Jessica Irvine joins The Briefing to explain the ins-and-outs of a recession and whether we should be worried.   In today's news headlines: Young people warned to stay off TikTok after disturbing video goes viral Two Australian journalists rushed out of China as Australian TV anchor charged Man killed in suspected great white shark attack on the Gold Coast WA nurse helping with Melbourne outbreak contracts Covid-19   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

12 per cent of people in their 20s have lost their jobs in the COVID crisis, and many more are reassessing their career choices. So how do you turn a career low point or a complete job loss into a positive? What can you do to get a competitive edge in the current job market?   Businesswoman and author of You’ve Got This, Bec Brown, educates The Briefing on how to successfully navigate a profession pivot in a recession and find the silver linings of a career catastrophe.   In today's news headlines: “Worst case scenario”: federal officials pan Victoria’s lockdown roadmap Novak Djokovic issues apology after hitting line judge with a ball Data from 186,000 customers stolen in Service NSW hack Prime Minister to push ahead with new laws despite Facebook threat to block local news   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

During the pandemic we’ve been more hungry for information than ever before. So how different are the questions you’re asking to the rest of the country? Are your google searches weirder than everyone else’s? Are you responding differently to this moment than most people? What is the most googled question in this pandemic?   On today's episode we take a look at the most googled search terms over the last six months, and find out what they say about us. We’ve gone straight to Google and asked what are the top ten questions of the last six months in Australia? Google’s Data editor Simon Rogers counts them down with us.   In today's headlines: Victoria’s roadmap revealed: Melbourne to be in the world’s longest lockdown Free Covid-19 vaccines available from next year if trials prove successful More than half of mortgage-holders still deferring payments as deadline looms   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to a special weekend edition of The Briefing with Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. In today's episode we catch up with Kevin Rudd, the 26th Prime Minister of Australia serving from 2007 to 2010 and again in 2013.     What would his approach to be managing the tension between Australia and China? Does he think Australia should have led the inquiry into the origins of Coronavius? Does Kevin think Joe Biden will be the next President of USA? How was Covid handled by the Trump administration? The last time he got recognised in the street and what they said to him The most common things kids ask him to do  Why he’s the king of handball, and why its helping Aussie kids in lockdown     Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a bombshell this week Facebook threatened to block the sharing of Australian news content. It means media companies and everyday users won't be able to share news on Facebook or Instagram. This threat from Facebook is in response to a new code developed by the ACCC that would require Facebook and Google, which also owns Youtube, to share a portion of their ad revenue with Australian media organisations and newspapers.   So who is going to win? Will Facebook really stop doing news in Australia? Or will the Australian government be able to force them to agree on a revenue deal? On today's episode we break it down for you with the help of Dan Van Boom, editor of tech site CNET.   In today's news headlines: PM to push for open borders at National Cabinet, but some states have already refused Two Australians among ship crew missing feared dead after Typhoon off Japan Australian arrested in Bali on drug charges Facebook cracks down on US ads before election   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Music festivals in 2021. What will they look like, if they can even go ahead at all?   COVID has decimated the festival scene around the world. So is there any way festivals can happen in cities where there’s still high community transmission? Can you have thousands of people in one place, sharing a drink, dancing and listening to the bands they love but also keep them socially distanced? Will a COVID safe festival kill the vibe for both the audience and the performers?   Blues Fest in Byron Bay is planning to go ahead next Easter and on today’s episode we’re joined by its promoter Peter Noble to explain how it will work. Tash Sultana has sold out major arenas and headlined the world’s biggest festivals. Tash joins us to explain the future of festivals from the artists' perspective and the decision to be part of Bluesfest 2021. What’s it like to play to a seated crowd? Is Tash going to have to change the show up in any way and adapt?   In today's news headlines: It’s official: Australia is in its first recession in 28 years AFL officials thank the QLD government for keeping footy alive Police warn TV personality Sam Newman against lockdown as video of pregnant mum’s arrest goes viral     Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As bushfire season approaches, hazard reduction burning is happening in parts of Australia, and hopefully making us safer.   But the smell of smoke is also bringing back memories of the horror Black Summer many of us faced.   Recent findings from a NSW inquiry and some interim observations from the Royal Commission have come through this week. So what did we learn from these findings? And are we any better prepared for this year’s summer... than we were last year?   On todays episode we’re joined by one of the key people leading the bushfire response this summer Acting Deputy Commissioner at the NSW RFS Peter Mckechnie.   In today's news headlines: Facebook threatens to block Australian news Changes to JobKeeper pass parliament: What does it mean for you? AFL Grand Final expected to be moved to Queensland   In today's Briefing we ask: What is the bush fire smoke we're smelling in many areas of the country? What is the difference between control burning and back burning? Have we done anything differently this year? Are we doing more controlled burning? Does a wetter spring mean we wont see fires as early? or will there be more fuel to burn? Have we changed our approach to responding to fires as soon as they start, even if they're hard to access? What can we do from a human response to deal with bushfires? Will some of the Covid restrictions put us at more risk of bushfire danger? Will the quarantine restriction on state borders make it a hard to get firefighters from other states or countries to come in and fight the bushfires?   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On todays episode we look at twists of fate, and the survivor’s guilt of avoiding a tragedy. We hear the of real life sliding doors stories of people who’ve narrowly avoided death by chance or intuition and then lived with the survivors guilt that comes from it.   Tyla Harrison-Hunt was meant to be in the Christchurch mosque where the deadly shooting happened last year, he prayed there every Friday, however this particular day he was in Melbourne for a weekend away. We also hear the story of our Producer Claire - she was supposed to take a job in Christchurch but something told her not to, and if she had she would have died in an earthquake. We’re also joined by Clinical Psychologist Kim Felmingham  - an expert in trauma who explains what survivors guilt is, how debilitating it can be, and the concept of Post Traumatic Growth.    In today's news headlines: Australian TV anchor detained in China Interim bushfire report recommends national bushfire warning system Victorian roadmap out of stage four to be released Sunday $563 million aged care support package unveiled   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is it like being the person at the top in times of crisis? Is there a breaking point? How do you sleep? Former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has lived the answers to those questions as the person that led Australia through the Global Financial Crisis, the Black Saturday Bushfires and the threat of Swine Flu.   Six months into the coronavirus pandemic, we are in unprecedented times - which means an unprecedented number of press conferences for our State and territory leaders, as well as the PM. They’ve been working day in and day out. In Victoria, Premier Dan Andrews is about to front his 60th daily press conference in a row.    Today on the show, former PM Kevin Rudd is our special guest.   In today's news headlines:  Most Aussies back border closures, poll finds Queenslanders urged to wear masks amid new restrictions Australia’s emissions fall to lowest levels since 1998   In today's Briefing we ask Kevin Rudd: Should our leaders take some time off? Why does he recommend a couple of hours a day of ‘thinking’? What are his music recommendations? What did his day to day look like during the GFC? With the Black Saturday Bushfires, why did prayer and meditation helped get his own headspace in order? How did he stop himself from blubbering on national TV? Who are the everyday Aussies he stays in touch with? What advice does he have for other PM’s wanting to take a break? What is his advice for Dan Andrews? How has the role of PM impacted his mental health?      Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are we doing enough to protect our healthcare workers from getting Covid at work? To look after those who look after us? Nurses, doctors and allied health professionals are ending up in intensive care because of what they say is inadequate infection control.     2700 workers have tested positive since the beginning of the pandemic with more than 100 hospitalised and sadly one death. So are we doing enough to protect our health workers while they’re on the job? And how can we expect them to look after us, when we can’t first, keep them safe at work?   On today’s episode we speak with Emily Morris, an Emergency Department nurse at The Royal Melbourne Hospital where she works with Covid patients every day, and contracted Covid herself last month. We’re also joined by Dr Michelle Ananda-Raja, a consulting physician in infectious diseases who has spoken to more than 400 Victorian health workers about their experiences.   In today's news headlines: Christchurch shooter sentenced to life in prison without parole China lashes Australia again over federal bill to kill problematic state, local agreements with foreign powers 20,000 shifts filled: chief nurse reveals the impact of Victoria’s second wave on aged care On National Equal Pay Day, experts warn pandemic will make gender pay gap worse   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In recent headlines you might have seen the Aboriginal Flag caught up in a copyright controversy. On today’s episode we get you up to speed, looking at why the flag is copyrighted, who can use the flag and for what purpose, and who should own the Aboriginal flag? For example, did you know that if you get a tattoo of the Aboriginal flag you're technically breaking copyright laws?   We speak with Professor Isabella Alexander an expert on all things copyright, and Gunditjmara woman Laura Thompson who found out the threat is real when she received a 'Cease and Desist' notice last year. That legal threat prompted her to start a campaign to free the flag from copyright.   In today's headlines: Victoria’s 12 month state of emergency extension dead in the water Senior Chinese diplomat says Australia “betrayed” Beijing Two people killed during US protests over latest police shooting   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

To celebrate our 100th episode we’ve assembled the whole team for the very first time to thank you for being with us on this journey in this Ask Me Anything special.   To mark the occasion we’ve turned the tables, so you get to ask the hard hitting and burning questions you’ve always wanted to ask Tom, Jamila, Annika and Jan.     If you could do a long form deep 2-hour interview with anyone in Australia who would it be? What do you think would be the biggest news story at the moment if Covid didn’t exist? What is Toms favourite podcast and his favourite part of being on The Briefing? What are Jan Frans secrets for finding all the most amazing second-hand pieces of clothing? Since being diagnosed with a brain tumour and dealing with the onslaught of procedures and disruptions to her life, does Jamila think this has somewhat prepared her for the turbulence of this year? Who does Annika think will win the US election? What was Toms hardest “smile and bite one’s tongue” moment with a Politician? What’s been Jan’s most challenging news story to cover and why? How does Jamila explain to her child what is happening in the world at the moment? Did the raid on Annika’s apartment have an effect on her ability to sleep and rest properly? Is Tom still playing the bass? How does Jan Fran live with herself when she is that fabulous?     Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2019 year the single largest massacre in New Zealand was perpetrated by a 28-year-old man from Grafton NSW. His sentencing is currently underway, with Christchurch’s High Court hearing from surviving victims and their families. The man has plead guilty to 51 counts of murder, 40 counts of attempted murder and one charge of committing a terrorist act.    Our guest, Hisham Al Zarzour, is one of more than 60 people who survived the attack and who’s victim impact statement will be read to the court and to the gunman who killed 51 of his fellow worshippers.    In today's news headlines: Hundreds of travelers moved from Sydney Travelodge which was found unfit for hotel quarantine More job losses for Qantas and major fashion retailers NSW inquiry into summer bushfires that killed 33 Australians handed down WA’s court border battle win over Clive Palmer     Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recessions, depressions, wars and pandemics change what we value, the way we relate to one another and how we express ourselves. They also change our day-to-day lives including what we eat, how we work and what we wear.    Will this economic downturn keep up in bleak, darker colours? What will happen when this is all over? Will there ever be corporate attire if we all work from home? To find out a bit more about what the pandemic and recession might do to the way we dress, eat, work and play we’ speak to Associate Professor Jordan Williams, who is a cultural critic specialising in creativity and trauma.   In today's headlines: Top doctor defends vaccine after religious leaders raise "ethical concerns” Victoria’s state of emergency could be extended for another year President Donald Trump formally renominated for “the most important election in our history” KFC drops its iconic slogan because of Covid-19   In today's Briefing we ask: What is Covid going to change about the way we dress? How we live? Will Covid kill the bra? What changes will we see in the way we present ourselves? What interior styles do we see coming in? Will it change the way we eat and buy produce? Will there be a renaissance period where the arts will be put on a pedestal?   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The disappearance of 3 year old William Tyrrell is one of the biggest unsolved mysteries in Australian history. If you’re someone who’s followed that case, you’ll probably know the name Gary Jubelin.    Earlier this year NSW detective Gary was found guilty of unlawfully recording conversations with a suspect and was fined $10,000. An appeal is underway, but it ended his 34 year career in the police force. Since his conviction Gary has released a book telling his side of the story it’s called ‘I catch Killers: The Life and Many deaths of a homicide detective’    Gary Jubelin joins us today to explain why he’s fighting to save his reputation.   In today's news headlines: Second TV show shut down after Masked Singer Covid-19 outbreak QLD races to get on top of Covid-19 outbreak Christchurch terrorist sentencing begins today TikTok to sue the Trump Administration   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Weekend Briefing. In this bonus episode, Australians experienced a horrific summer with devastating bushfires, drought and floods – all which have been intensified due to climate change.   At the peak of fires, Australia rallied for our government to acknowledge climate change and to take action.   Since COVID-19, the national discussion on climate change has taken a back seat, so how can we continue to tackle climate change amidst a pandemic and what is our government doing about it?   Tom talks to climate activist Jean Hinchliffe  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you think Coronavirus is just an old person’s disease then think again. Older people might be more likely to die from COVID 19 but it’s actually people in their 20s who are the most likely to contract and spread the virus.   Today we hear the harrowing story of Marcus Tomoff, a 28-year-old from Florida who contracted Covid-19 in June and is still dealing with really serious health and neurological problems. Marcus also infected his parents. He has a message that he hopes will get through to his fellow young people. We're also joined Dr Sora Park from the News and Media Centre at the University of Canberra.   In today's news headlines: Prime Minister asks state leaders to resolve border closure crisis Qantas sheds 6000 jobs as profits plunge 91 percent Hillary Clinton, Billie Eilish, Barack Obama and Kamala Harris urge voters to kick Trump out   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Whether you love or hate Donald Trump, you’ll need to know about the new player on the block that could take him down in November’s election. Last week Kamala Harris was announced as the Democrats' Vice Presidential candidate, who will stand with presidential candidate Joe Biden to try and defeat Trump.    So given Harris will be critical to taking on Trump, on todays episode we find out who she is and whether she could make the difference for the Democrats and be key to defeating the current President of the United States. Our guest is Maya King – US POLITICO journalist.   In today's news headlines: Confusion over Prime Minister’s comments about whether or not Covid-19 vaccine will be mandatory “No evidence” Sydney hotel quarantine guard who caught Covid-19 did anything wrong Joe Biden officially endorsed as Democratic Presidential candidate as Julie Gillard gives advice to Kamala Harris Police slam “disgusting” national puppy scam   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You’ve heard of anti-vaxxers, the people who straight up refuse to vaccinate. But have you heard of ‘vaccine hesitancy’? The World Health organisation defines vaccine hesitancy as people who might be sitting on the fence, delaying acceptance that vaccines work, or those who refuse to get it when its freely available. Vaccine hesitaters are considered one of the top ten risks to global health.   If Scientists and politicians are optimistic about their ability to roll out a safe and effective vaccine next year, why will some of us still hesitate? To discuss this our guests are Dr Robin Canniford (University of Melbourne) and Dr Margie Danchin (Murdoch Children’s Research Institute).   In today's news headlines: Australia locks in Coronavirus vaccine deal Jacinda Ardern isn't having Donald Trump's beat up. Research suggests muggy conditions could help mitigate COVID-19   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New Zealand has postponed their national election because of a COVID-19 cluster which highlights their different approach to the pandemic. They are going for elimination, while Australia is pursuing suppression.     Their elimination strategy had been working well. After a national stage four six week lock down, restrictions were lifted and life seemed to return to normal until last week when the clean streak ended, and restrictions came back into play. So is New Zealand starting to pay a bigger price for the elimination strategy, and how different is their strategy to ours? Is elimination even a reality?   Professor Michael Baker is an epidemiologist on the New Zealand Health Ministry’s COVID19 Technical Advisory Group and joins us to explain if New Zealand’s elimination strategy is about to get a whole lot more difficult.   In today's news headlines: 99% of Victoria’s Covid-19 cases are linked to hotel quarantine, while NSW government apologises for Ruby Princess crisis NZ Pushes Back Election Due To Covid Young Aussies are the target of the latest ad campaign around Covid-19 ad campaign.    Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

There appears to be a new kind of celebrity take down story emerging. One that could only exist in the current social media and cultural climate. Is it fair enough that people are finally calling out celebrities for their bad behaviour or do we just like seeing a really successful person brought down?    For decades Ellen has been one the most popular talk show hosts in the world, her brand is building on kindness and credibility but this year this image has started to unravel. On today's episode we find out what Perez Hilton thinks of the unfolding Ellen story. He’s world’s most infamous gossip blogger and responsible for breaking some of the biggest celebrity stories of all time.    In today's news headlines: The health minister "optimistic" about vaccine in mid-2021 Victoria’s state of emergency extended for another month as cases decline International students flying to South Australia in Australian-first pilot program   Follow Perez Hilton at perezhilton.com and be sure to check out his new book "TMI".   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Last week’s deadly explosion in Beirut was one of the biggest non-nuclear explosions in history. It also sent a massive political shockwave through the already struggling country with protestors calling on the government to resign.   We're going to brief you on why this explosion of ammonium nitrate has brought down the government, and what are the deeper problems causing so much despair in Lebanon? What was happening leading up to the blast that led Lebanon’s government to step down as a result? We're joined by journalist Adam Chamseddine from Beirut.   In today's news headlines: Hope as Victoria records its best case numbers in more than three weeks National unemployment now at a 22 year high Quarantine breach “likely” behind New Zealand Covid-19 outbreak Melbourne man fined for Maskacne   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Research shows sniffer dogs can be 100% accurate at detecting Covid! On today’s episode we find out how do they do it? Which breeds are best? And when could our furry friends could be used to save us from Covid?   We’re joined by both Dr Anne-Lise Chaberis and Dr Susan Hazel, from the School of Animal and Veterinary Science at Adelaide Uni who explain the science behind this and when these dogs could be trained and rolled out here in Australian hospitals, airports and aged care facilities.   In today's headlines: New Zealand probes whether frozen freight to blame for coronavirus spread Joe Biden names Senator Kamala Harris as his Presidential running mate Western Australia works to pass emergency legislation to stop Clive Palmer’s $30b lawsuit University students who fail half of first year subjects to lose access to HELP   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It is one year since Jeffrey Epstein died in a New York prison and exposed a dark underbelly among some of the world's most powerful people. For many of us watching on, it was this mysterious death that first brought Epstein to our attention. On today's episode we go back and find out more about what happened up until that point.   We’ll also find out what’s happened since, including Ghislaine Maxwell’s trial and the trial of the two New York prison guards. Adam Klasfeld is a reporter with Courthouse News and takes us through the story of Jeffrey Epstein.   In today's headlines: Russia claims it’s designed the world’s first coronavirus vaccine New Zealand returns to lockdown after first cases in 102 days Canberra slaps down Victorian Premier after claims army help was not offered for hotel quarantine   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On todays episode we explore how COVID-19 has impacted our weddings. Classed as 'super spreading events’ Covid Marshals are now required as part of a safety plan at weddings. But does this actually stop the spread of the virus, or is it just as a visual deterrent? These ‘fun police’ are required to ensure safety guidelines are being met which includes no dancing, no mingling, no singing, no embracing or shaking hands. Police have even turned up to do head counts and dancefloor inspections.   So is a wedding with so many restrictions even worth it? And could line dancing be the answer to keep our weddings safe?   Our guests are: John Alten (Sydney MC and event director), Professor Nancy Baxter from the University of Melbourne and Antoinette Lattouf, who was a guest at a covid safe wedding where the police were called.   In today's news headlines: BREAKING: The entire Lebanese government has resigned Australia's aged care death rate among the worst in the world  Covid-19: Victoria’s promising case drop; NSW school cluster grows; teens arrested for skipping quarantine   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are terrorists up to now during the pandemic? Are they more or less of a threat?   Whether it’s Islamic State or right-wing extremists some experts are warning that the pandemic is giving terrorists a unique opportunity to recruit new members online. In this episode we speak with Greg Barton, one of Australia’s leading experts on Islamic Terrorism who says there’s actually been an uptick in attacks in parts of Iraq during this pandemic.   So what does that mean for us here in Australia? How has the pandemic affected the threat of attacks on Western soil? Gary Ackerman, a US terror expert, also joins us to answer the question: How will terrorists pivot in the pandemic?   In today's news headlines: WA family of toddler killed in Beirut to return to Australia Victorian mental health suffers in second lockdown  Top doctor says COVIDSafe app is working well   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the biggest issues of the last year was climate change. So where is the climate debate now and how has the pandemic affected it?   Best known for his work with The Chaser, Craig Reucassel joins us to talk about his environmental quest. His new show Fight For Planet A raises the question: How much difference we can make as individuals?   In today's headlines: JobKeeper to be expanded amid second lockdown People in their 20s make up the largest proportion of COVID transmissions both in NSW and nationally More pain for Lebanon as Covid-19 cases spike days after deadly blast NRL coach Wayne Bennett sidelined for two weeks over Covid breach   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A number of countries have used curfews as part of their pandemic lockdown measures including France, Italy, Cyrus, parts of the US, Malaysia, Thailand, South Africa and now our very own city of Melbourne, but have they been proven to work? In this episode we explore the psychological impacts of a curfew, and also get the medical perspective on the impact it’s supposed to have.   We’re joined by Psychologist Eoin Killacky - a senior researcher at Orygen youth mental health service at Melbourne University and Professor John Matthews  - a public health expert who’s advised the Australian Government and also the World Health Organisation.   In today's news headlines: Two week state of emergency declared in Lebanon after horrific Beirut blast QLD shuts out NSW, ACT as man in his 30s dies in Victoria TigerAir to be dumped as Virgin sheds at least 3000 jobs TikTok won’t be banned in Australia, says Prime Minister   Follow The Briefing Instagram: @thebriefingpodcast Facebook: TheBriefingNewsAUTwitter: @TheBriefingAU  If you’d like to help those affected by the Beirut explosion there are a number of ways Australians can help fund emergency relief:   Disaster relief campaigns include: Lebanese Red Cross  Human Appeal Australia Muslim Aid Australia Impact Lebanon See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.