The Briefing

Rachel Perkins is one of Australia’s most formidable directors, whose work has reshaped how this country tells its own story. A powerhouse of Indigenous storytelling, Perkins has spent decades bringing truth to the screen where silence once stood. The Indigenous filmmakers latest project, The Australian Wars, tells the true story about the bloody battles fought to establish a nation from both perspectives of the coloniser and colonised - challenging the myths many Australians were taught to accept. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Rachel shares why she co-chaired the Yes campaign, her career forged through purpose rather than permission and how she found her way back to creative work when hope felt fragile. Weekend list with Helen Smith and Chris Spyrou TO WATCH: Stranger Things season 5 TO READ: Invisible Women: Exposing Data Bias in a World Designed for Men TO EAT: Paprika and fish TO DO: Create a collaborative note in the notes app Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Firefighters are currently battling two emergency-level blazes in central Victoria, where homes have already been destroyed and three people, including a child, remain missing. These are the worst conditions the country has faced since the deadly Black Summer fires that tore through Victoria in 2019 and 2020. Experts warn that, without urgent action, our risk of more frequent and devastating fires will only increase. In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by climate criminologist and Director of the Future Emergency Resilience Network, Dr Paul Read.  Headlines: Queenslanders have been told to prepare for the high chance of a tropical cyclone, US Federal Immigration agents have shot two people in Portland, and one of Australia’s deadliest spiders could soon be saving lives.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Firefighters bracing for ‘a very bad day’ as heat engulfs parts of Australia,  Jewish groups welcome PM’s announcement of a Royal Commission, Trump defends ICE agents who killed US Citizen Renee Nicole Macklin Good, authors boycott Adelaide Writers' Week after pro-Palestine advocate Dr Randa Abdel-Fattah removal and Leonardo da Vinci’s DNA potentially found on artwork. Deep Dive: The rules of the music industry are shifting again, and in 2025, the balance of power seemed to tilt towards artists.  Some experiments paid off and opened new ways for fans to connect - from Justin Bieber livestreaming online to Charli XCX building direct channels with fans.  Others, however, exposed just how risky it can be to step outside industry norms.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with music journalist Sam Murphy about who’s really setting the rules and how that will shape the artists, sounds, and stories we hear in 2026.  Further listening: Randa Abdel-Fattah had her name written on a bomb Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

After weeks of mounting pressure, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has reversed his decision and announced a royal commission into the Bondi Beach terror attack that claimed 15 lives and left many injured. Former High Court justice Virginia Bell has been appointed to lead the inquiry, despite objections from prominent members of the Jewish community. In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by Associate Professor of public policy Deirdre O'Neill, who explains the unique powers of royal commissions, who leads them, what makes them effective, and whether this is the strongest path to answers, accountability, and prevention.  Headlines: A woman has been shot dead by a US ICE officer during an operation in Minneapolis, Australia is in the grip of its worst heatwave since Black Summer, with catastrophic fire conditions across parts of Victoria, South Australia and New South Wales, and NASA has been forced to postpone its first spacewalk of 2026.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: PM expected to announce Federal Royal Commission into the Bondi terrorism attack, US seizes Russian-flagged vessel linked to Venezuelan oil, thousands of Aussies hit with highly transmissible flu strain, Grok under investigation by Australia’s online safety watchdog over deepfakes, and Warner Bros rejects ‘inadequate’ $160bn Paramount bid. Deep Dive: In 2025, the architects of artificial intelligence were named Time’s Person of the Year - making the question no longer whether AI will shape our future, but how fast and on whose terms.  What started in our feeds is now reshaping classrooms, the economy and the physical world around us - with massive AI data centres now being built in Australia.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Toby Walsh, Chief Scientist at the UNSW AI Institute, to break down what to expect from the tech in 2026.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Why does Donald Trump keep talking about Greenland, could the US really try to take it, and what does it all mean for Australia?  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by defence and security expert, Jennifer Parker, who explains why Greenland has become such a fixation for the US president, and why this isn’t as unprecedented as it might sound. Jen explains the strategic value of the Arctic, the role of NATO and Denmark, and why Trump’s rhetoric is alarming key allies.   Headlines: US President Donald Trump says Venezuela will turn over at least 30 million barrels of oil to the US, inflation has slowed to 3.4 per cent, and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has attended a Bondi terror attack victims' funeral for the first time. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Multiple states on high alert amid forecasts not seen since Black Summer bushfires, Venezuelan opposition leader vows to return as the country cracks down on Maduro critics, Swiss ski bar not inspected for five years before deadly fire, and Tomorrowland's inching a little closer to Australia. Deep Dive: January is the rude awakening after the break - routines and alarms return, and exhaustion sets in fast.  Sleep is often the missing link, with the way we treat it affecting our energy levels, mood, and ability to retain information.   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with neuroscience expert and host of Do You F*cking Mind, Alexis Fernandez-Preiksa, about what actually happens in the brain during sleep, why falling asleep can feel so hard and how small changes can reset your energy in 2026.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Deposed Venezuelan authoritarian leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have faced a New York court, pleading not guilty to multiple drug and weapons-related charges. Maduro’s lawyers are expected to argue his arrest was illegal, and he's immune from prosecution. In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by Colombian-born legal scholar Juan Zahir Naranjo Cáceres to unpack the latest developments.  Headlines: Senior Labor figures expect Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to back down on his opposition to a royal commission into the Bondi Beach terror attack, millions of Australians living on the outskirts of major cities could face bushfire risks similar to the deadly 2025 Los Angeles fires, and exciting news for Lego lovers.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Nicolás Maduro pleads not guilty in New York court, alleged Bondi shooter moved to supermax as parliament expected to return to Canberra early, Paris court finds 10 people guilty of cyberbullying France's first lady, and the new campaign trying to get Australia back in the top 10 happiest countries list. Deep Dive: From AI hype to lingering chatter around crypto and gold, 2026 is already shaping up as a year thick with financial noise - now layered with fresh global shocks.  Predictions of stock crashes, bubbles about to burst, and market swings are everywhere - raising questions about what actually matters and how it can affect us.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Motley Fool Australia’s Chief Investment Officer Scott Phillips about what we should realistically be paying attention to when it comes to the world of finance this year.  Further listening:What the headlines are missing on Venezuela PART 1: The Macrons vs Candace Owens & PART 2: French president sues podcaster over claims first lady is a man The ugly truth about your delicious bacon sandwich Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US-led capture of Venezuela’s authoritarian leader, Nicolás Maduro, has sparked a storm of debate. For many, removing a leader long labelled a dictator and accused of severe human rights abuses is a hopeful moment for Venezuela. Yet experts warn the operation raises serious questions under international law.  In this episode of The Briefing, Tara Cassidy is joined by Venezuelan-born journalist Claudianna Blanco, who takes us inside Venezuela's decades-long fight for democracy, the devastating human toll of Maduro’s regime, and the uneasy questions about what comes next.  Headlines: Tensions over Greenland are rising after US President Donald Trump said the United States “absolutely” needs the territory, hundreds of mourners have paid tribute to the 40 people who died in a New Year’s Eve bar fire in Switzerland, and Aussie actors Sarah Snook and Jacob Elordi win Critics Choice awards.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Mixed reactions from Australia’s Venezuelan community after US arrests authoritarian leader, Australian sports stars call for a royal commission into Bondi terror attack, severe heatwave warnings for large parts of the country, and the Special Ks are back!  Deep Dive: Dating is something many of us have a love-hate relationship with and as 2026 begins, new trends are already reshaping how people meet and connect.  That shift is already showing up online, with January 4 the busiest day of the year for dating apps, dubbed “Dating Sunday,” with Australians logging on in search of the one.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by media consultant and mental health advocate Kriti Gupta to unpack the dating trends set to define the year and whether last year’s viral idea that “having a boyfriend is embarrassing” is here to stay. Further listening from the headlines: What's behind Trump's 'war on narco-terrorism' Why more Australians are drowning than ever before Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the 1990s, millions of dollars’ worth of gold vanished from the Sydney CBD office of Australia’s richest man - and police believed the thief didn’t act alone.  In part two, investigators zero in on a prime suspect known as Mr X, pursuing a theory that someone inside Kerry Packer’s inner circle tipped him off about the gold. As the net tightens, uncomfortable questions emerge about how much Packer himself may have known.  In this episode of The Briefing, we continue our break from the daily news cycle and bring you part two of this extraordinary story from LiSTNR’s Crime in Focus.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the 1990s, $5.5 million worth of gold bullion was stolen from the Sydney CBD office of Australia’s richest man, Kerry Packer.   It was a heist so precise it left even professional safecrackers impressed - and suspicious.  In this episode of The Briefing, we’re continuing to take a break from the daily news cycle and we bring you part one of this wild story from LiSTNR’s Crime in Focus.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: At least 40 dead after fire at Swiss ski resort bar, More than 100 business leaders call for Royal Commission into Anti-Semitism, House prices are set to jump more than 5% in 2026, and Usman Khawaja's Test future is up in the air leading into the Sydney test. Deep Dive: When you book in with a psychologist, how much do you really know about the kind of treatment you’ll receive? While cognitive behavioural therapy is one of the most common approaches, new and emerging therapies are constantly being developed.  But how do these therapies move from theory into real-world practice and how long does that process take?  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Kelvin Wong, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Psychological Sciences at Swinburne University of Technology, who unpacks new therapies for 2026 and when someone should consider seeking therapy in the first place.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s been almost a decade since Stranger Things first dropped us into the town of Hawkins - and today, the final episode of the series lands, closing out one of the most influential TV shows of the past ten years.  But behind the monsters, secret labs and psychic experiments is a lesser-known origin story: a conspiracy theory tied to a place called Montauk in New York.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Christopher Garetano - researcher and filmmaker behind the 2014 documentary ‘Montauk Chronicles’ about how fact, fiction and conspiracy collided to create a global pop-culture phenomenon.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Queensland flood fatality as WA cyclone makes landfall, Australians encouraged to "Celebrate not hide" this New Years eve, and good news with the PBS cap falling to $25 from New Years day. Deep Dive: Australians have spent billions of dollars on travel in 2025, and that’s not a trend that’s expected to change in the new year.  98% of people who took a holiday this year say they will again in 2026, while overseas and domestic trips continue to be popular. So, where will we all be going in 2026? Where should we be going? And most importantly, how can we snag a bargain? In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt is joined by Quentin Long from Australian Traveller to talk 2026 travel.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Menorah to light up Sydney Harbour Bridge in tribute to Bondi terror attack victims, Australian Cruise ship runs aground in PNG, Tropical cyclone Hayley to make landfall in WA today, and the ICC has rated the Boxing day pitch as "unsatisfactory". Deep Dive: BookTok is a community on TikTok where people create and share content about books and in 2025, it truly entered the zeitgeist.   The hashtag helped platform new authors, sparked controversy, and even reshaped book sales and the way the publishing industry operates.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Evelyn Araluen, a Goorie and Koori author and teacher, who explains how BookTok works, it’s cultural impact and how it’s influencing what we read.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Families of Bondi Beach terror attack victims call for federal royal commission, US President Donald Trump has a “good and very productive call” with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, Iconic French film star Brigitte Bardot dies age 91, and Master Lock Comanche has won Sydney to Hobart line honours. Deep Dive: New national drowning data shows deaths are at their highest since records began, with a sharp and alarming rise among teenagers and young adults. In this episode of the Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by water safety expert Justin Scarr, who breaks down what’s driving the crisis. Unpack why child drowning has fallen while risk skyrockets after age 10, how rip currents are catching even confident swimmers off guard, and why so many rescues are now being attempted by parents and bystanders - often with tragic consequences. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Melbourne barman’s brush with unlimited cash takes a darker turn, as an ATM loophole that once felt like luck begins to feel like a trap.  In part two, Dan Saunders’ Hollywood-style spending spree collides with his conscience. As the money keeps flowing, he tries to come clean - only to find no one seems willing to stop him.  In part two of this extraordinary story from LiSTNR’s Crime In Focus, the question sharpens: will Dan be forced to face justice, or has he pulled off one of the stealthiest bank heists in Australian history?  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

An ordinary Melbourne barman stumbles across an extraordinary loophole - an ATM glitch that lets him withdraw unlimited cash, no questions asked.  What follows is a rapid transformation into a high-roller fantasy: luxury hotels, designer shopping, five-star dining and private jets, all fuelled by money that shouldn’t exist.  In this episode of The Briefing, we’re taking a break from the daily news cycle and bringing you part one of an extraordinary story from LiSTNR’s Crime in Focus.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Boxing Day in Australia has become synonymous with a few things; cricket, shopping and the movies.  It’s arguably the biggest day for movie releases down under, and the streamers too are getting in with some big drops the day after Christmas.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou is joined by host of LiSTNR’s The Streaming Service, Justin Hill to chat all things TV and movies this festive release season.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Christmas day! And while it’s often seen as a time of joy and togetherness for many Australians, it can also be a period of deep hardship.  With the cost-of-living crisis and record rental and housing prices putting unprecedented pressure on Australians, more people are experiencing homelessness.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Ben Kharblas, Deputy CEO of Mission Australia, who explains what Christmas looks like for someone experiencing homelessness, why loneliness and mental health challenges spike over the holiday season and how you can help.   Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Anthony Albanese has delivered his official Christmas message to Australians, Canterbury-Bankstown Council shuts down prayer hall linked to Naveed Akram, and Aussies expected to spend nearly 4 Billion dollars this Christmas. Deep Dive: The Christmas break often brings families together and with that can come awkward, uncomfortable, or even confronting conversations.  From navigating tense dynamics with relatives you’d rather avoid to responding to racist or misogynistic comments at the dinner table, these moments can be hard to handle in the heat of the moment.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Carly Dober, Director of the Australian Association of Psychologists, about why these conversations tend to surface during the holidays and how to tackle an unwanted comment thrown your way.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: 3/4's of Australians want tougher gun laws, Britain wants to follow our under 16 social media ban, New warnings to keep Christmas snacks away from pets. Deep Dive: Australia has recorded one of its worst road tolls on record this year. New data from the National Road Safety Hub shows 1,340 people died on our roads across the country in the 12 months to July 2025.  In this episode, we’re joined by the NSW Roads Minister Jenny Aitchison, who explains why the death toll is so high and her important message for every driver this holiday season.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Monday Headlines: Albo booed at Bondi memorial a week after terror attack with his approval rating plunging, Red Cross see a spike in blood donations, and Interest rates likely to go up twice in 2026. Deep Dive: Christmas leftovers are often one of the best parts of the holidays, but they can also make you wonder, is this still safe to eat?  Every year, hospital emergency departments across Australia see a spike in food poisoning cases over the Christmas and New Year period, often linked to improperly stored leftovers.  In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by food technologist Cheryl Hughes from Facts on Food who explains how to safely store, freeze and reheat leftovers, what the ‘sniff test’ can tell you and how to avoid getting sick while still making the most of your festive food.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For centuries, Christmas at the White House has been the gold standard of tradition with elaborate gingerbread houses and classic spruce trees. But for Melania Trump, the festive season sparked something else entirely: a meme jackpot of controversy online, leaked audio and public backlash.  In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks the most chaotic holiday in the White House, from the infamous ‘blood-red’ trees to the secret 2018 recording where the First Lady famously asked, ‘Who gives a f*** about Christmas stuff?’  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Phoebe Santillan-Stocks has spoken to some of the most powerful right hands in the world - the people operating just out of sight, shaping history from behind the scenes. The founder of Missing Perspectives and author of The Right Hand, explores what it’s really like to be a chief of staff or adviser to global leaders from Nelson Mandela to Jacinda Ardern and even Kamala Harris.  In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Phoebe Santillan-Stocks shares what she learned by asking big questions in her twenties, why she’s driven to amplify overlooked voices, and the lessons that stayed with her long after the interviews ended. Take part in The Briefing survey HERE.  Weekend list with Helen Smith TO EAT: Panettone tiramisu TO EAT: Fruit kebabs  TO DO: Ette Media Live Show tickets here TO DO: Gift an experience over a material item Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thousands of Australians turned out this morning for an emotional paddle out at Bondi Beach, with a powerful message of healing, unity and hope just five days after Australia's worst terror attack.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by one of the organisers and members of the Bondi Jewish community, David Solsky, who explains why today was an important step forward. Headlines: The Prime Minister has announced the federal government will launch a new national gun buyback scheme, the NSW Government has announced the details of its gun reform legislation, and Bondi hero, Ahmed al-Ahmed, has been presented with a cheque for more than $2.5 million in hospital.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Anthony Albanese facing increasing anger from Bondi victims' families, heavily armed tactical police arrest seven men in Sydney’s southwest, migrant intake hits three-year low, Australia facing storms and heatwaves today as Christmas Day forecast drops and our fav stories of 2025! Take part in The Briefing survey HERE.  Deep Dive: Australia has a long track record of world-changing research, from Wi-Fi to the bionic ear, and now one Melbourne academic thinks the next frontier might be in comedic robots.   University of Melbourne researcher Dr Robert Walton has received more than half a million dollars in public funding to explore whether AI and robots can perform believable comedy, and what it can teach us about humour and human-machine interaction.   In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Dr Walton about what this research could mean far beyond the stage.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The NSW Premier has announced a major overhaul of gun laws in the wake of the Bondi Terror attack. We unpack the proposed changes as the rates of gun ownership soar across the country.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Rod Campbell, a gun ownership researcher at the Australia Institute, to discuss why this overhaul is needed and how governments have become too complacent about the number of weapons in our community.  Headlines: The Prime Minister has announced tougher hate-speech laws targeting preachers who promote violence,  Optus has released a damning review into September’s network outage, and the son of Hollywood director Rob Reiner has appeared in court for the first time.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Charges laid in Bondi Beach terror attack, pressure mounts on Anthony Albanese in the wake of the Bondi attack, teens clash with police on popular beach after storming Melbourne supermarket, search history of some Pornhub users hacked and the first trailer of Melania Trump’s Amazon doco is here. Take part in The Briefing survey HERE.  Deep Dive: Does it count as cheating if it’s with AI?  A recent YouGov survey found one in seven adult Australians could imagine falling in love with a chatbot, with one in six preferring to stay home and talk with it over going out with friends.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Raffaele Ciriello an expert in AI companions from The University of Sydney to discuss how worried we should be about AI relationships, romantic or not. Further listening from headlines: How the Philippines became a terrorist training ground Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alleged Bondi gunman Naveed Akram has been charged with 59 offences at his bedside while in hospital. The charges include 15 counts of murder, 40 counts of wounding with intent to murder and one count of commit a terrorist act. The 24-year-old woke from a coma yesterday following Sunday's attack. He is understood to have declined to be interviewed about his alleged involvement in the terror attack.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Authorities have confirmed the alleged gunmen behind the Bondi Beach massacre had both recently travelled to the Philippines, with allegations they had undergone extensive terrorist training. The Southeast Asian country has been a terrorist training ground for extremists around the world for decades, but now it appears there’s a dangerous resurgence. In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by criminologist Dr Clarke Jones, who has interviewed convicted terrorists behind bars in the Philippines, on what’s behind this new wave of radicalisation.  Headlines: The NSW Premier has announced parliament will be recalled next week to discuss urgent new reforms in the wake of the Bondi terror attack, the first funerals of the victims of Sunday’s terror attack have been held today, and former Liberal treasurer Josh Frydenberg has criticised the Albanese government's lack of action and called for a royal commission into antisemitism.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Community anger grows as youngest victim in Bondi Beach attack mourned, surviving Bondi gunman wakes from coma as investigation stretches beyond Australian borders, Donald Trump sues the BBC, renewables are the key to cheaper energy new CSIRO report finds and a seal visits a pub in South Australia.  Take part in The Briefing survey HERE.  Deep Dive: Australia has become the test case for a world-first social-media ban, launched last week by the Prime Minister alongside campaigners, grieving parents and media figures who helped drive the push.  In the wake of the Bondi Beach terror attack, supporters argue the ban has already proven its value - saying it spared millions of children from exposure to the very content it was designed to block.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Crikey’s Cam Wilson about how the legislation came together, who lobbied hardest for it, and what interests were at play.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As top authorities continue to investigate what motivated the two alleged gunmen to carry out Sunday’s terror attack at Bondi Beach, questions are being asked if our counter terrorism authorities could have done more. Authorities have also confirmed the two alleged terrorists had recently travelled to the Philippines, with unconfirmed reports they had engaged in military style training.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by former counter terrorism detective, Peter Moroney, who explains why some of our top authorities have dropped the ball and the crucial red flags they missed.  Headlines: The NSW Police Commissioner has confirmed the father and son accused of carrying out the Bondi terror attack had recently travelled to the Philippines, Former Prime Minister John Howard has lashed out at Anthony Albanese’s leadership, and  Bondi hero, Ahmed al-Ahmed has broken his silence. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcast Take part in The Briefing survey HERE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tuesday Headlines: Sydney comes together to mourn the victims of the Bondi Massacre, hero Ahmed al-Ahmed recovers in hospital, the political response and blood donations surge. Deep Dive: Australia is coming to terms with the Bondi Beach massacre, as leaders urge calm and unity in the aftermath of the attack. But experts warn this moment is different from anything the country has faced before.  For the first time, grief and anger are colliding with a flood of AI-generated and manipulated content online - misinformation spreading at a speed and realism that’s challenging even seasoned security professionals.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with security consultant and future-crime researcher Skeeve Stevens to unpack it. Links:  Make an appointment to give blood here  Sign the online condolence book here Lifeline: 13 11 14  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcast Take part in The Briefing survey HERE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The nation is still reeling after yesterday’s mass terror attack on Bondi Beach. The Prime Minister has flagged an overhaul of gun laws as questions are raised over how the gunmen had access to such high-powered registered weapons. It comes as a number of the 15 victims killed in the worst mass shooting since Port Arthur have been identified. In this special episode, we bring you all the latest details on this terror attack on Jewish people celebrating Hanukkah.   If you or someone you know is feeling distressed, support is available: Griefline (National grief support line) : 1300 845 745 Lifeline (24-hour Crisis Line): 13 11 14 Members of the public can contact the Public Information & Enquiry Centre on 1800 227 228 for information relating to people impacted by the Bondi Beach Terrorism Incident. Police are urging anyone with mobile phone or dashcam vision relevant to the incident to upload it through the NSW Police website. It can also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sydney and Australia are reeling after two shooters opened fire on a Jewish festival at Bondi Beach, killing 16 people and injuring dozens more.  One of the shooters was killed, the other is in police custody in hospital.   In this special extended headlines episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt and Chris Spyrou take you through everything we know so far about Australia’s worst mass shooting since the Port Arthur massacre.  Resources: If you have been directly impacted or know someone who has been, the Public Information and Inquiry Centre can be contacted by calling 1800 227 228. The Red Cross has activated its ‘Register, Find, Reunite’ service to help people confirm the safety of their loved ones at register.redcross.org.au. Lifeline: 13 11 14  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcast Take part in The Briefing survey HERE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

At least ten people are dead in one of the worst mass shootings in Australia's modern history. Two men are in custody after gunmen opened fire on beachgoers at Bondi Beach with high-powered weapons on Sunday evening. Multiple people were injured, including children. Police are investigating reports of an improvised bomb at the scene. NSW Police are urging the public to avoid the area.  More to come. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

20 years ago this week was one of the most volatile moments in modern Australian history - the 2005 Cronulla riots. A week of rising racial tensions exploded into violence, fuelled by talkback radio, misinformation, and hatred. And when the chaos spread, intelligence warned of a possible attack on Lakemba Mosque. Caught in the middle was young police officer Danny Mikati, who was suddenly facing an angry crowd, with no backup. It was a moment where years of community trust became the only thing standing between him and tragedy. In this bonus episode, Danny sat down with Crime Insiders host Brent Sanders to share his extraordinary life-or-death experience. Take part in The Briefing survey HERE.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Michael Klim is one of Australia’s most celebrated swimmers, known for breaking world records, the 2000 Olympics and for his strength in the pool. But his life took a turn when a sudden decline in his health left him unable to walk. In his 40s he was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease, CDIP forcing him to confront a new reality. Since then, he has redirected the course of his life, becoming a vocal advocate for awareness and others living with the condition. In this chat with Antoinette Lattouf, Michael opens up about how he's committed to living a life of wellness beyond just the hashtags and promos. If you want to donate blood search Lifeblood Weekend list with Helen Smith TO LISTEN: Uncovered – How undercover police radicalised an autistic child TO READ: The Conversation TO EAT: Fancy pantry Mi Goreng Noodles TO READ: Nature's Last Dance by Natalie Kyriacou Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former Jetstar pilot Greg Lynn, who was accused of killing campers Carol Clay and Russell Hill, has had his murder conviction overturned. He was found guilty last year of murdering Clay and acquitted of Hill’s death. But now, in a bombshell development, the Court of Appeal has ruled there were serious irregularities in his trial - so serious they may have caused a miscarriage of justice...   In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Criminologist Xanthe Mallett, who explains what these latest developments mean and what’s next for Greg Lynn, who has always maintained his innocence.   Headlines: The Prime Minister has asked Australia’s independent expenses watchdog for advice on taxpayer-funded travel entitlements, the woman who was raped by Tom Silvagni has made an emotional victim impact statement in court, and Australians are in for one last celestial show of 2025, with the Geminid meteor shower set to peak this weekend.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcast Take part in The Briefing survey HERE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Friday Headlines: Son of Carlton footballer unmasked in rape case, one in two cigarettes in Australia now illegal, Bonnie Blue to be deported and blacklisted from Bali, Trump introduces million-dollar 'gold card' visa and architects of AI named Time’s Person of the Year. Take part in The Briefing survey HERE.  Deep Dive: Women make up 87% of male-on-male romance readers and are also the ones behind a lot of gay ‘smut’ content.   The hit TV show Heated Rivalry has been dubbed ‘Gay Hockey Smut’ and has entered the mainstream, opening up the conversation around who consumes queer romance.   In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Darcy Green, an author and writer of Queer romance, who explains why straight women commonly request male-on-male erotic stories.  Further listening from headlines: BONUS: Bonnie Blue's schoolies returnUS Border security is getting personal Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The long-running tension between Selena Gomez and Hailey Bieber has become one of the internet’s most contested celebrity feuds - with Justin Bieber at the centre if it all.  Selena and Hailey both grew up in the limelight, finding fame at an early age and both went on to date teen pop royalty Justin Bieber which undoubtedly magnified them further into spotlight.   In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks how much of this feud is fuelled by the internet or whether the rivalry is genuinely rooted within Selena and Hailey’s inner circles.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US government has proposed tough new laws that will affect millions of travellers, including Australians heading to the US. While they are only proposals at this stage, travellers could be forced to hand over private information, including social media details, family information and numbers and emails from a decade ago.  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by immigration lawyer Melissa Vincenty, who unpacks these changes and explains why handing over our private information, especially when AI is used, is incredibly concerning. Headlines: Former pilot Greg Lynn will face a new trial over the death of Victorian camper Carol Clay, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has fired back as pressure grows over parliamentary travel entitlements, and a “zombie-proof” electric car ad has topped Australia’s most-complained-about advertisements for 2025.  Take part in The Briefing survey HERE. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Thursday Headlines: Teens skirting social media ban told it won’t last forever, Australia records highest number of Indigenous deaths in custody in four decades, US considers forcing tourists to disclose their social media history before entry, Italian cuisine becomes world’s first to win UNESCO status, and the best AU/NZ song of the 21st century revealed. Take part in The Briefing survey HERE.  Deep Dive: The 2025 bushfire season has already turned deadly, with a firefighter killed and homes destroyed across multiple states.  Authorities are warning the early conditions look “ominous,” raising fears Australia could be heading toward another Black Summer.  In this episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with former Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Greg Mullins about what this early fire activity tells us and how prepared we really are for the season ahead.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week, our top defence bosses joined their US counterparts in Washington for AUSMIN. Some experts say the latest meeting was an important win for Australia after a rollercoaster year in our fragile security alliance with America. As the presence of US troops and defence personnel grows in Australia, are we preparing for an imminent conflict on our doorstep?  In this episode of The Briefing, Natarsha Belling is joined by Defence and Security expert Jennifer Parker to unpack this week’s developments at AUSMIN and why Australia needs to prepare for greater uncertainty in the Indo-Pacific.  Headlines: A 36-year-old man has been arrested after a woman was allegedly assaulted and then ran over, the federal Coalition is preparing a hardline immigration policy, and a 68-million-year-old dinosaur fossil is going under the hammer.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Australia’s world leading social media ban has officially come into force, with hundreds of thousands of kids getting kicked off platforms today.  We’ve heard a lot about how teens are feeling, but what about teachers and parents?  On this bonus episode of The Briefing, Sacha Barbour Gatt speaks with teacher and dad, Dr Ryan Stewart about how he’s navigating the ban with his own kids and students.  Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcastSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Wednesday Headlines: Anika Wells refers her own expenses to the independent watchdog, Toyah Cordingley’s killer sentenced to life in prison, another death linked to a 000 failure, Donald Trump launches attack on European leaders and threatens to ditch Ukraine, and thousands of fans miss the start of Lady Gaga’s Brisbane show due to a technical glitch.  Take part in The Briefing survey HERE.  Deep Dive: A world-first social-media ban cutting off Australians under sixteen has now taken effect, with the government framing it as a necessary pushback against harm and addiction.  Critics argue it’s a blunt overreach built on shaky evidence that unfairly limits young people’s rights - including fifteen-year-old Noah Jones, who’s taking the fight to the High Court.  In this episode of The Briefing, Chris Spyrou speaks with Noah about why he’s opposing the ban and what he believes a smarter response would look like.BONUS: Why this teacher is in favour of the social media ban is out now. Follow The Briefing: TikTok: @thebriefingpodInstagram: @thebriefingpodcast YouTube: @TheBriefingPodcastFacebook: @thebriefingpodcast  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The rivalry between Australia’s two biggest cities runs so deep it literally forced the country to build a brand-new capital. Canberra wasn’t chosen for political symbolism; it was created a bid to simmer the fighting between Sydney and Melbourne. This beef covers everything from weather to nightlife, tourist attractions, footy, house prices and coffee – creating one of our longest rivalries between cities.   In this episode of The Beefing, Helen Smith unpacks if Sydney has the looks and Melbourne has the personality - or whether it's more complicated than that.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.