Politics with Michelle Grattan

A former deputy secretary of the immigration department under the Howard government says 'it's time politicians on both sides pulled up their socks'. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters

The health minister also says fewer kids are now vaping because of the government's ban, which 'exploded' as a health problem during the COVID years. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters

Both men say the government has a 'spending problem' and are urging the federal government to think beyond raising taxes – especially for business. Mentioned in this episode: How Australian Democracy Works 'How Australian Democracy Works' edited by Politics Editor Amanda Dunn is out now in all good book stores. Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters

McManus doesn't expect instant wins on shorter work hours from next week's economic summit, but says it still needs to be on the table – along with AI protections. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters

Housing is on the agenda at next week's productivity roundtable, with the Treasurer wanting better regulation and faster approvals to build more homes. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters

The former five-time Olympic shooter and coal miner wants men of all ages not to be afraid of speaking about their health – as he used to be. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters The Conversation Weekly Search for 'The Conversation Weekly' wherever you get your podcasts.

The influential crossbench MP warns young working people are going backwards financially. She also backs the government's proposed YouTube ban for kids – for now. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters

We're joined on this podcast by the Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen who outlines Australia's ongoing energy transition. Mentioned in this episode: The Conversation Weekly Search for 'The Conversation Weekly' wherever you get your podcasts.

The former prime minister warns debate about national security has 'never been dumber' – and AUKUS risks costing Australia far more than anyone wants to admit. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters

With the government's big win at the election, how hard will the Greens push on legislation this term. We ask new leader Senator Larissa Waters. Mentioned in this episode: The Conversation Weekly Search for 'The Conversation Weekly' wherever you get your podcasts. Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters

The shadow minister for Indigenous Australians and social services says we need 'unpleasant conversations' to achieve real outcomes – like keeping families together. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters The Conversation Weekly Search for 'The Conversation Weekly' wherever you get your podcasts.

Former secretary of the Treasury Ken Henry joins us to talk about his 40+ years experience in working to reform Australia's tax system. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters

From new ways to fast-track cheaper homes and renewable energy to bigger tax reforms, Treasurer Jim Chalmers tells the podcast his door is open for fresh ideas. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters

On the podcast this week we're joined by Independent Tasmanian Senator Tammy Tyrrell to discuss chaotic state of politics on the Apple Isle. Mentioned in this episode: How Australian Democracy Works 'How Australian Democracy Works' edited by Politics Editor Amanda Dunn is out now in all good book stores.

Ahead of Anthony Albanese's likely first meeting with Donald Trump this month, a US politics expert says 'begging' for lower tariffs would be a mistake. Mentioned in this episode: How Australian Democracy Works 'How Australian Democracy Works' edited by Politics Editor Amanda Dunn is out now in all good book stores.

We're joined by Liberal Zoe McKenzie who was elected to the Melbourne electorate of Flinders in 2022. She joins us to talk about the Liberal party future.

From super changes to avoiding recession, federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers joins the podcast to discuss the government's priorities when Parziament returns in July. Mentioned in this episode: How Australian Democracy Works 'How Australian Democracy Works' edited by Politics Editor Amanda Dunn is out now in all good book stores.

From super changes to avoiding recession, federal Treasurer Jim Chalmers joins the podcast to discuss the government's priorities when Parliament returns in July.

Assistant Minister Andrew Leigh is charged with lifting Australia's stagnant productivity. He says AI may help us do less drudge work, such as sending endless emails. Mentioned in this episode: Sign up to The Conversation's newsletter https://theconversation.com/au/newsletters How Australian Democracy Works 'How Australian Democracy Works' edited by Politics Editor Amanda Dunn is out now in all good book stores.

David Pocock joins us today to talk about the new Senate situation, his aspirations for the next three years and the election generally. Mentioned in this episode: Your support matters Support non-profit journalism you can trust. Donations 2025 How Australian Democracy Works 'How Australian Democracy Works' edited by Politics Editor Amanda Dunn is out now in all good book stores.