The Party Room: Recent Episodes
ABC Radio
Want to know what's really going on in Parliament House? Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas give you the political analysis that matters and explain what it means for you.
Following an emergency National Cabinet meeting, the Government announced nearly $1 billion of additional funding to combat violence against women.
The Prime Minister has declared the issue a "national crisis" and says his government is acting with urgency. But does the funding injection go far enough, or are more wrap around services needed?If you need support, help is available from 1800 Respect (1800 737 732) or Lifeline on 13 11 14
Jacqueline Maley, Columnist and Senior Writer at the SMH and The Age joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
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Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au
Australia has held 44 referendums since 1901, but only 8 of them have succeeded. So why are constitutional changes so unpopular? The polling science does provide some insight into why the bar is set so high for these campaigns, and a historical view gives us a hint of what may lay in store for the upcoming vote.
Crucially, this episode also explains exactly what you can and can’t write on your ballot paper to make sure your vote is valid.
Alan Joyces’ early departure from Qantas, hasn’t eased any of the political pressure piling on the Government.The Transport Minister has struggled to explain her decision to block Qatar Airways from increasing flights to Australia, while the Opposition has accused the Government of a crisis of transparency.Shane Wright, Senior Economics Correspondent with the Age and the Sydney Morning Herald joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
There’s been plenty of focus on youth crime and disadvantage in Aboriginal communities this year,. How can we actually improve the lives of young Australians who are terribly over-represented in our justice system?In this episode, two Indigenous community leaders committed to making a difference explain their very different perspectives on the impact a Voice to Parliament could make on communities around the nation.
The Prime Minister has set the date for the referendum on the proposed Voice to Parliament, with campaigning set to ramp up from both sides.
Anthony Albanese has urged Australians “not to close the door” on constitutional recognition, while the Opposition has continued to claim the proposal is divisive. But what strategies will we see from both the Yes and No campaigns to get undecided voters over the line?
Dana Morse, ABC Political Reporter joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
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Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au
Many of the ideas for the Voice and the coming Referendum were shaped at a summit five years ago. But some of the major fights started there too. In 2017, Indigenous leaders from around the nation met at Uluru for a constitutional convention that sought to build consensus between communities on a journey towards constitutional recognition of Australia’s First Nations people.
That convention resulted in the creation of the Uluru Statement from the Heart, a crucial document that articulated a vision of a better future. But there was not unanimous support for this process at the summit, sparking many of the arguments within the Indigenous community that have persisted in the lead-up to the 2023 referendum.
Find all episodes of The Voice Referendum explained on the Listen app
The latest Intergenerational Report has provided a snapshot of an older, less productive Australia in 40-years time. So, is it time to seriously consider big tax reform?
And how does life experience inform the decisions politicians make?
Annabel Crabb, Host of ABC’s Kitchen Cabinet joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
The last attempt to change Australia's constitution was 24 years ago and it failed miserably. So when we are all asked to vote later this year on the creation of an Indigenous Voice to Parliament, what are we voting for? What would a Voice actually do? And why is it so important?
In this first episode of the ABC's new podcast series explaining the Indigenous Voice to Parliament Referendum, Fran Kelly and Carly Williams look at the question we will be asked to vote on, and the constitutional amendment itself.
Find all episodes of The Voice Referendum explained on the Listen app
An additional $3.5 billion to boost housing supply and limiting rental increases to once every 12-months, were the key outcomes of the National Cabinet meeting this week.
But the Greens say the rental measures don't go far enough, describing them as "smoke and mirrors."
Anna Henderson, SBS World News Chief Political Correspondent joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
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Got a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au
Housing has been an ongoing pressure point for the Albanese Government. And next week, the Prime Minister will meet with state leaders at National Cabinet to secure action on housing supply and rental reforms, but what will we realistically see come from the meeting?
And the Opposition has used Question Time to pepper the Government with questions over the proposed Voice to Parliament. So, does the Coalition’s re-election strategy depend on the Voice failing?
Phil Coorey, Political Editor at the Australian Financial Review joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on the Party Room.
Parliament has returned after the mid-winter break, but the Government is still facing resistance from the Greens over its signature housing bill. So, just how real is the threat of a double dissolution election if the bill fails to pass the Senate for a second time?
And the PM sought to deflect questions about the government’s commitment to Treaty, a key element of the Uluru Statement of the Heart, accusing the Opposition of trying to muddy the water over the Voice.
Laura Tingle, Chief Political Correspondent for ABC’s 7.30 and Paul Karp, Chief Political Correspondent at the Guardian join Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
This week, the annual rate of inflation slowed to 6 per cent, down from the dizzying high of 7.8 per cent in December. The rate was lower than economists had forecast and welcome news for households, businesses and the government.
But what will it mean for the RBA’s decision on interest rates next month?
And there are allegations government contractors provided suspect payments to Pacific politicians and officials involved in Australia’s offshore detention program in Nauru and PNG.
Jacob Greber, Senior Correspondent with the Australian Financial Review joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
The official Voice to Parliament pamphlet has been released, with parliamentarians from both sides laying out the Yes and No case. But, the pamphlet isn’t fact checked, and there are already concerns the material contains misinformation.
Meanwhile, Deputy Liberal leader Sussan Ley could face a serious preselection challenge in her seat of Farrer. So, what does it mean for the future of the Liberals, if the most senior female in the party is at risk of losing to another candidate?
James Massola, National Affairs Editor at the Sydney Morning Herald and the Age joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
A week after the Royal Commission’s Robodebt report was handed down, the fall-out is continuing. Calls are growing for former Prime Minister, Scott Morrison to step down from Parliament, while many want the ‘sealed section’ of the report made public.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been busy on sidelines of the NATO summit. He’s made some significant deals and announced an additional 30 Bushmaster vehicles for Ukraine. So, just how important was the visit for Australia’s national security?
Karen Middleton, Chief Political Correspondent for the Saturday Paper joins Fran Kelly and David Speers on The Party Room.
The RBA hit pause on increasing interest rates for July, providing some reprieve for millions of households. But how else can inflation be tackled? And are we still moving towards a recession?
And the Government has altered its strategy on the Voice to Parliament, outlining four priority policy areas for the body. But there’s also been a shift in the language around the campaign, with Peter Dutton decrying the "elites" on the Yes side, while Linda Burney warns of "Trump style politics" from the No camp.
Ian Verrender, ABC Business Editor joins Fran Kelly and David Speers on The Party Room.
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Got a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au
On the eve of the new national integrity commission, two senior Liberals are embroiled in corruption scandals. The NSW ICAC has found former Premier Gladys Berejiklian engaged in serious corrupt conduct. The finding coincides with mounting allegations against former Federal Minister Stuart Robert who denies he helped a consulting firm secure lucrative government contracts.
And as the world assesses the fallout from the aborted Wagner rebellion in Russia, Australia has announced more help for Ukraine. The $110 million package has been criticised by the Opposition as a "garage sale" of old equipment. So, are we being stingy and what does the Moscow insurrection mean for the war?
Peter Hartcher, political and international editor at the Sydney Morning Herald joins Patricia Karvelas and David Speers on the Party Room.
The Greens and the Coalition have teamed up to delay the Albanese Government’s key housing bill. They say they want the government to provide more rental reform, but could the delay be the first step for the PM to trigger a double-dissolution election?
And the Indigenous Voice referendum bill has passed Parliament, so what happens next?
Dana Morse, ABC Political Reporter joins Patricia Karvelas and David Speers on The Party Room
Opposition leader Peter Dutton has intensified his language against the Voice to Parliament, suggesting the proposed body would "re-racialise" Australia. Is his leadership, and hopes to win the next election, dependant on the referendum failing?And this week India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Australia and received rockstar welcome. But did his visit really boost bilateral relations?Legendary journalist and political commentator, Niki Savva joins Patricia Karvelas and David Speers to unpack.
This weekend marks a year since Anthony Albanese defeated Scott Morrison at the election. 12-months on, what has Labor achieved in Government? Meanwhile, turmoil at home has forced US President Joe Biden to postpone his trip Down Under.Charles Croucher, Chief Political Editor for 9News and former US Correspondent joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
This week, Treasurer Jim Chalmers handed down the Albanese Government's second Budget.And alongside a surprise $4 billion surplus, it promised $14.6 billion in cost-of-living relief, which the Government claims won't add to inflation. The Opposition and the crossbench have been critical of the measures, so does the Budget provide enough for Australians?Danielle Wood, CEO of the Grattan Institute joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to crunch the numbers.
In this bonus Budget special, Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly unpack the Albanese Government's second budget.
The countdown to Budget night is underway, and as the leaks flow, pressure is piling on the Albanese government to provide assistance for the most vulnerable.It comes as the Health Minister this week announced a crackdown on vaping, revealing a $234 million dollar plan to stamp out non-prescription vapes and prevent a new generation of nicotine addicts.David Crowe, Chief Political Correspondent with The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to unpack.More InformationFollow The Party Room on the ABC Listen App or your favourite podcast app.Got a burning political query? Send a voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au
Cracks are appearing in the Labor Party family, over welfare payments for single parents and other social security measures.Meanwhile, the Government has announced a new defence strategy, following a much anticipated review. So, with the Budget looming, how much will the Government fork out on these expensive measures?Cameron Stewart, Chief International Correspondent at The Australian joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to unpack.
The RBA is set for a major shake-up, following the release of the first review into the central bank in decades. So what’s set to change?And with just over two weeks before the Federal Budget, the Albanese Government has a tricky challenge: how to help Australians struggling with the cost of living while managing inflation.Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent with The Conversation and Professorial Fellow at University of Canberra joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to unpack.
Former Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians Julian Leeser quit the Opposition frontbench, to actively campaign for the Voice to Parliament.His decision followed former high-profile Liberal Minister Ken Wyatt’s resignation from the Party, so does spell trouble for Opposition leader Peter Dutton?James Massola, National Affairs Editor at The Age & The Sydney Morning Herald joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to unpack.
After months of speculation, the Liberal Party has finally settled on a formal ‘No’ position on the Voice referendum.Peter Dutton will campaign against what he’s labelled a “voice to Canberra”, while Cape York Indigenous leader Noel Pearson has accused the Opposition Leader of a “Judas betrayal”.Anna Henderson, Chief Political Correspondent at SBS joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to unpack.
It’s been a jam-packed final sitting week before the May budget, as the Albanese government attempts to push through a suite of legislation.Negotiations with the Greens and the crossbench have proved fruitful, but the government’s Housing bill remains a sticking point.Laura Tingle, Chief Political Correspondent at 7.30 joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to unpack
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has unveiled the wording of the referendum question on the proposed Indigenous Voice to Parliament.So, what does this mean for the referendum process, and what has the Opposition made of it?
Anthony Albanese, alongside US President Joe Biden and UK PM Rishi Sunak, revealed the details of the AUKUS nuclear submarine deal this week.It’s the most expensive and ambitious project Australia has ever embarked on, but not everyone is on board with the plan and its $368 billion dollar price tag.
The Party Room hosts Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas travel to Adelaide for a live recording at WOMADelaide, with special guest Foreign Minister Penny Wong and the Guardian’s Tory Shepherd joining them on stage.
This week, the Reserve Bank raised interest rates for the 10th consecutive time. But now the RBA Governor Phillip Lowe has indicated that a “pause” in rate hikes could be on its way.ABC Business Editor Ian Verrender joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
This week, the Albanese Government announced changes to tax concessions for Australians with more than $3 million dollars in superannuation.The Opposition has labelled the move a “broken election promise”.So, why has Labor taken this political risk?Host of Insiders, David Speers joins Patricia Karvelas to unpack.
This week, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used his National Press Club address to focus on national security and sovereignty. It followed revelations by ASIO boss Mike Burgess that Australia was experiencing more foreign interference and espionage than ever before. And the government is facing a battle on another front, as they attempt to "end the super wars", by floating changes to superannuation.John Kehoe, Economics Editor at the Australian Financial Review joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
In this live recording of The Party Room, hosts Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Minister for Aboriginal Australians, Linda Burney and Liberal Senator Andrew Bragg.
The RBA governor Philip Lowe faced Senate Estimates this week, amidst high inflation and the prospect of more interest rate rises. Meanwhile, the Albanese government is facing roadblocks when it comes to ensuring support for three big ticket items. They need support from the Greens: so, what concessions will they have to give?Shane Wright, Senior Economics Correspondent for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on The Party Room.
As Parliament swings back into action for the first sitting week of 2023, the cost of living crisis has again taken centre stage.The RBA has handed down a ninth consecutive rate rise, and made it clear there are more on the way, so will the government be able to offer any relief?Political Editor at the Guardian Australia, Katharine Murphy joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly on The Party Room.
The Voice to Parliament is set to be the Albanese government’s big agenda item for 2023.
It's been a big final sitting week in Parliament, with the government moving on an integrity commission, its industrial relations bill and its workplace harassment legislation. Plus, Scott Morrison became the first former prime minister to be censured.7.30 chief political correspondent, Laura Tingle, joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly for her assessment of the government's first six months.
Premier Daniel Andrews is bidding for a third successive term in Victorian state politics, but does Saturday's election have any federal implications?
Plus, Guardian Australia political reporter Amy Remeikis joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to analyse the chances of the government's new industrial relations and integrity commission bills passing.
It has been a huge week for Anthony Albanese on the world stage, but what does the meeting between Xi Jinping and the Prime Minister actually mean?
Political and international editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Peter Hartcher, joins Patricia Karvelas and guest host David Speers to analyse the China-Australia relationship. Plus, The Party Room discusses Josh Frydenberg's pyjamas.
It has been a huge week for Anthony Albanese on the world stage, but what does the meeting between Xi Jinping and the Prime Minister actually mean?
Political and international editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, Peter Hartcher, joins Patricia Karvelas and guest host David Speers to analyse the China-Australia relationship. Plus, The Party Room discusses Josh Frydenberg's pyjamas.
The government says it needs to pass its new workplace relations bill as soon as possible to help get wages moving, but it’s hitting strong resistance from business groups and some independent MPs.
Workplace editor for The Australian newspaper, Ewin Hannan, joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to discuss how the new laws would work and how likely they are to pass in their current form.
Plus, the latest on the COP27 climate conference, the Medibank data leak, and Australia's relationship with China.
The government says it needs to pass its new workplace relations bill as soon as possible to help get wages moving, but it’s hitting strong resistance from business groups and some independent MPs.
Workplace editor for The Australian newspaper, Ewin Hannan, joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to discuss how the new laws would work and how likely they are to pass in their current form.
Plus, the latest on the COP27 climate conference, the Medibank data leak, and Australia's relationship with China.
The government faces the potential of a big business advertising campaign against their new industrial relations laws. But are they scared?
Shane Wright, senior economics correspondent for the SMH and The Age joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly with his analysis.
Plus, the latest on repatriations from Syria, the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, and COVID.
The government faces the potential of a big business advertising campaign against their new industrial relations laws. But are they scared?
Shane Wright, senior economics correspondent for the SMH and The Age joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly with his analysis.
Plus, the latest on repatriations from Syria, the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, and COVID.
The Albanese government has handed down its first budget, which Treasurer Jim Chalmers has called "a difficult budget, for difficult times".
With rising inflation, growing cost-of-living pressures and electricity costs forecast to increase by 56 per cent in the next two years, what support has the government offered Australians?
Guardian Australia's editor Lenore Taylor joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to unpack Budget 2022.
What does Labor need to do in its first post-election budget for it to be seen as a success?
ABC Business Editor Ian Verrender joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly with his analysis.
Plus, the Albanese government runs into trouble in the debate over Israel's capital.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is considering a request from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for more weapons, money and military training.
Chief political correspondent for SMH and The Age, David Crowe, joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to analyse Australia's role in Ukraine’s conflict with Russia.
Plus, the Labor government ponders structural economic changes before their first federal budget.
It's been 10 years since Julia Gillard delivered her famous 'misogyny speech' in federal parliament. Few political players realised the magnitude of the speech back then. But what's changed for women in Australia in the years since?
Plus, the Australian Financial Review's Political Editor Phillip Coorey joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to analyse the government's plans to repatriate citizens stuck in Syria, and whether Labor will ditch the stage 3 tax cuts.
The Opposition has signalled its support for Labor's National Anti-Corruption Commission, welcoming the government's plan to keep hearings private, apart from under "exceptional circumstances".
Plus, Guardian Australia's Josh Taylor joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to explain what the Optus data breach means for Australia's cybersecurity and privacy laws.
The PM says the Australian republic debate is off the table for this term of government, and a federal integrity commission may not be legislated this year.
Parliament has been suspended... but there’s plenty still happening!
Veteran press gallery journalist Malcolm Farr joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly with his analysis.
The Albanese Government has come into the parliamentary week off the high of the jobs summit, but risks coming unstuck on foreign policy.
Chief Political Correspondent for The Conversation, Michelle Grattan, joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly's party this week.
The Albanese Government's jobs and skills summit has kicked off in Canberra, but what does it mean for Australia?
Guardian Australia's chief political correspondent, Sarah Martin, joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to explain why it matters. Plus, are the Greens talking down the Indigenous Voice to Parliament?
What’s Scott Morrison’s future after the secret ministries scandal?
SBS World News Chief Political Correspondent, Anna Henderson, joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to give the Party Room her analysis on Robodebt, the impending jobs summit, and the portfolio scandal.
Scott Morrison's secret portfolio scandal has shocked both sides of Australian politics this week. But why did the former PM pick up the five extra ministries?
Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by news.com.au's Political Editor, Samantha Maiden, to discuss what the saga means for the country.
China-Taiwan tensions have escalated and Australia has of course been caught in the political crossfire. So, how have Foreign Minister Penny Wong and the Government handled the heat?
And as the Jobs Summit draws nearer, the ACTU and Opposition Leader both weigh in.
Peter Hartcher, Political and International Editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has proposed a draft referendum question on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, but some Coalition MPs say they want to see more details.
Meanwhile, a gas shortage is looming: so, will the government pull the so-called gas trigger to increase supply?
And the Greens have promised to support Labor’s Climate bill: is this the end of the ‘climate wars’? Lorena Allam, Gamilaraay and Yuwalaraay woman and the Indigenous Affairs Editor for Guardian Australia joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas.
The Albanese Government has promised a new style of politics. So, were any of those changes visible when the 47th Parliament kicked off this week?
And there’s been more strain on cost of living, with inflation increasing again – but the Treasurer has warned the worst is yet to come.
Phil Coorey, Chief Political Correspondent for the Australian Financial Review joins Fran and PK.
The Albanese government has re-introduced pandemic leave payments after coming under sustained pressure from the community. But was the delay in announcing this COVID reset the Government’s first big misstep, or a sign it is willing to listen?
And Labor's legislation to reduce emissions by 43% by 2030 is set to be introduced to Parliament next week, but will it have the support it needs from the Greens in the Senate?
Lenore Taylor, Editor at the Guardian Australia joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to unpack the big issues of the week.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Foreign Minister Penny Wong attend the Pacific Island Leaders Forum, attempting to counter China’s rising power in the region.
And as a new wave of COVID ramps up, government subsidies wind down. So has the government got its health messaging right?
Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent with The Conversation and Professorial fellow at University of Canberra
While NSW is hit with yet another natural disaster, the Coalition accuses the PM of taking his eye off the ball – but is their criticism unfair?
Outgoing RN Breakfast Political Editor Alison Carabine pulls no punches at Fran Kelly's party this week.
Australia's 2021 Census data shows we're a very different country from five years ago. To demystify the Census, Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Shane Wright, senior economics correspondent for SMH and The Age.
Plus, is the Albanese Government's stoush with Independents over staffer funding a smart move?
The energy crisis is still looming for the Albanese government, but now they’ll work with state leaders on policy. Will the same sense of collaboration be fostered within Federal Parliament, even extended to members of the Opposition?
And what can the government do about inflationary pressures, while avoiding a wage price spiral?
Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Karen Middleton, Chief Political Correspondent at The Saturday Paper.
Labor claims the east coast energy troubles are the result of the former Coalition government's mismanagement, but will this wash with the electorate? Meanwhile, PM Albanese also has a win on the minimum wage, as big business groups raise inflation fears. Plus, the Party Room explores whether federal political terms should be longer than three years.
Patricia Karvelas and Raf Epstein are joined by David Crowe, Chief Political Correspondent for SMH and The Age.
As the Labor government "hits the ground running", they're faced with several economic and geopolitical challenges. In the Parliament, they're also forced to consider their attitude to the large Greens and independent contingent. Plus, PM Albanese announces his new Cabinet, with some surprises.
ABC Radio Melbourne's Raf Epstein joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas.
The Coalition is regrouping after a drubbing at the 2022 federal election. 7.30 chief political correspondent Laura Tingle joins Fran Kelly to analyse the way forward for both major parties in the face of a record vote for The Greens and independent candidates.
Plus, how will new PM Anthony Albanese govern differently to Scott Morrison?
Saturday's election has reshaped the political landscape - so why were there significant swings away from the major parties? And what will the approach of the Albanese Government be?
In this special episode Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas unpack the results of the 2022 election.
In this special election eve episode, Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by SMH's Jacqueline Maley and news.com.au's Samantha Maiden at Sydney Writers Festival.
It's been six-weeks of non-stop campaigning from Scott Morrison and Anthony Albanese,so what verdict will Australians hand down when they cast their votes? And how much of a role will the Independents and minor parties play in the outcome?
With election day looming, Fran Kelly, Patricia Karvelas and Annabel Crabb assess the state of play, as polling tightens between the Coalition and Labor.
Scott Morrison has conceded he’s a bit of bulldozer, while Anthony Albanese’s team have spread across the country in a last-ditch effort to win undecided votes. But will the debate over wages, or even the ‘Jenny factor’ be enough to sway swinging voters?
In the final days of the federal election campaign, ABC chief elections analyst Antony Green tells Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas whether Labor can win without picking up any seats in Queensland, while Sabra Lane weighs in on whether Anthony Albanese's wages pledge is helping or hurting his campaign. PK and Fran have views to share on that too!
Also on the party agenda, how long will we be waiting on election night?
In week four of this election campaign, there's been a bombshell interest rate hike, and it's getting more and more heated in the marginal seat battlegrounds. The polls say Labor is the favourite, but there's still a vital two weeks to go.
Guardian Australia's Editor, Lenore Taylor, joins the party.
In this special live recording of The Party Room, Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by the Guardian’s Amy Remeikis and the Saturday Paper’s Karen Middleton to make sense of the election campaign so far.
Will cost of living continue to dominate the campaigning? Are the scare campaigns working? And will independents grab some prize seats in the next term of parliament?
Australia records the sharpest rise in cost of living pressures in more than two decades, while the Government launches a new "sneaky" carbon tax scare. Plus, is Labor's small-target strategy going to cost Anthony Albanese the election?
Sean Kelly, former Labor advisor and columnist for the SMH and The Age joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas on the podcast.
Who won the first leaders' debate? Niki Savva, columnist for the SMH and The Age, joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly for an analysis of the early weeks of the federal election campaign.
Plus, Fran and PK analyse the possibility of a hung parliament, election scare campaigns, China's new deal with the Solomon Islands and whether Katherine Deves will hurt the Liberal vote in socially progressive seats.
Who won the first leaders' debate? Niki Savva, columnist for the SMH and The Age, joins Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly for an analysis of the early weeks of the federal election campaign.
Plus, Fran and PK analyse the possibility of a hung parliament, election scare campaigns, China's new deal with the Solomon Islands and whether Katherine Deves will hurt the Liberal vote in socially progressive seats.
Can Labor turn around the momentum in the election campaign? Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas analyse the impact of Anthony Albanese's day one gaffe, as well as the PM's declaration that Alan Tudge will be back in Cabinet, his backflip on transgender issues, Labor's decision to ditch a JobSeeker increase and why George Christensen defected to One Nation.
National Affairs Editor for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age James Massola joins the party.
Can Labor turn around the momentum in the election campaign? Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas analyse the impact of Anthony Albanese's day one gaffe, as well as the PM's declaration that Alan Tudge will be back in Cabinet, his backflip on transgender issues, Labor's decision to ditch a JobSeeker increase and why George Christensen defected to One Nation.
National Affairs Editor for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age James Massola joins the party.
With Australia about to go into a federal election campaign, what will be the impact of the chorus of voices questioning Scott Morrison's character? And while Labor goes into the campaign ahead in the polls, how will Anthony Albanese fare in the full glare of an election campaign and what happens if he gets COVID?
SMH and The Age columnist Jacqueline Maley joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to set the scene for the election campaign.
With Australia about to go into a federal election campaign, what will be the impact of the chorus of voices questioning Scott Morrison's character? And while Labor goes into the campaign ahead in the polls, how will Anthony Albanese fare in the full glare of an election campaign and what happens if he gets COVID?
SMH and The Age columnist Jacqueline Maley joins Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas to set the scene for the election campaign.
Will cheaper petrol do the trick for Scott Morrison on polling day? Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly analyse federal budget week including arts funding cuts, whether the PM is doing enough for renters and that scathing character assessment of the PM by Liberal senator Concetta Fierravanti-Wells.
Australian Financial Review Political Editor Phillip Coorey drops in as the party gets going.
What's in the 2022 federal budget? Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly explain the government's big pre-election handouts and discuss whether they'll win over voters.
Why are the major parties still squabbling over the preselection of some candidates, with an election due to be called within weeks?
The Party Room's Fran Kelly, Patricia Karvelas and their guest — 7.30 chief political correspondent Laura Tingle — also ponder spending pressures ahead of the budget, Labor tensions in the wake of the sudden death of Senator Kimberley Kitching and Coalition nerves over the ALP's big victory in the SA state election.
The federal budget is less than two weeks away. Can Australians expect a cash splash?
ABC Business Editor Ian Verrender joins Fran and PK.
This week the PM called the flood disaster a national emergency, and there was new confusion over the federal government’s nuclear submarines decision.
Fran and PK are joined by ABC News NSW state political reporter Ashleigh Raper and Guardian Australia political reporter Josh Butler for their analysis.
Queensland and NSW have been drenched with rain and floods and Russia's invasion of Ukraine has become even more brutal. Oh, and Scott Morrison has COVID-19.
The ABC's David Lipson has been in Ukraine for the past few weeks, and joins PK and David Speers for his analysis of the conflict.
Queensland and NSW have been drenched with rain and floods and Russia's invasion of Ukraine has become even more brutal. Oh, and Scott Morrison has COVID-19.
The ABC's David Lipson has been in Ukraine for the past few weeks, and joins PK and David Speers for his analysis of the conflict.
Could Australia be heading towards a khaki election? Plus, the government's response to the attempted takeover of AGL, and the PM's comments on the Sydney train dispute.
ABC Foreign Affairs reporter Stephen Dziedzic joins PK and David Speers to give his analysis.
Could Australia be heading towards a khaki election? Plus, the government's response to the attempted takeover of AGL, and the PM's comments on the Sydney train dispute.
ABC Foreign Affairs reporter Stephen Dziedzic joins PK and David Speers to give his analysis.
In this special episode, Patricia Karvelas is joined by Jeremy Fernandez from ABC News, Liberal MP Trent Zimmerman and Labor Senator Jenny McAllister to talk all things politics at Sydney's Mardi Gras Fair Day.
In this special episode, Patricia Karvelas is joined by Jeremy Fernandez from ABC News, Liberal MP Trent Zimmerman and Labor Senator Jenny McAllister to talk all things politics at Sydney's Mardi Gras Fair Day.
The government goes for broke on national security, throwing everything it can at Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese. Meanwhile, the issue of political integrity returns as donations to Zali Steggall come under the microscope, and the Liberals have a state by-election scare.
SMH/The Age Chief Political Correspondent David Crowe joins PK and Fran this week.
The government goes for broke on national security, throwing everything it can at Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese. Meanwhile, the issue of political integrity returns as donations to Zali Steggall come under the microscope, and the Liberals have a state by-election scare.
SMH/The Age Chief Political Correspondent David Crowe joins PK and Fran this week.
As Parliament remains divided over the contentious Religious Discrimination Bill, Grace Tame and Brittany Higgins have called out the government's handling of social issues. Plus, how have a series of leaked texts affected the PM's standing?
Guardian Australia's Political Editor Katharine Murphy joins Fran and PK.
There's serious division in the Coalition ranks over a push to end vaccine mandates and a controversial Religious Discrimination Bill. Plus, the issue of truthfulness has burned Scott Morrison again.
Chief political correspondent for ABC's 7.30 Laura Tingle joins PK and Fran this week.
As the Morrison Government turns its back on key elements of the climate agreement it signed in Glasgow, a shift in the US-China relationship could create new challenges for Australia on the global stage. Plus, protests on the streets of Melbourne have turned unexpectedly vicious in response to a proposed pandemic bill.
ABC international affairs analyst Stan Grant joins PK and Fran this week.
The Morrison Government has started to fill in some of the blanks in its plan to reach net zero emissions by 2050 by announcing an electric vehicle policy, but is it enough to neutralise the issue of climate? Plus, as election campaigning begins in earnest, trustworthiness is at the centre of the debate.
National Affairs columnist for Australian Financial Review Jennifer Hewett joins PK and Fran this week.
Scott Morrison's trip to Glasgow for the COP26 climate summit has been overshadowed by a furious row with French President Emmanuel Macron, further escalating international tensions. Plus, has pork barrelling become normalised in Australian politics?
ABC Insiders host David Speers joins PK and Fran this week.
The Coalition has finally committed to a net zero emissions by 2050 target, but Labor has condemned the lack of substance and detail in the announcement. Plus, while countries around the world struggle to vaccinate their populations, Australians over 18 will soon be able to receive a booster dose.
Political and international editor of The SMH/The Age Peter Hartcher joins PK and Fran this week.
The Federal Coalition remains embroiled in net zero shenanigans, opening up Scott Morrison to criticism over his ability to wrangle the Nationals. Plus, an unprecedented move to block an investigation into Christian Porter's 'blind trust' renews the debate about integrity in politics.
Guardian Australia Editor Lenore Taylor joins PK and Fran this week.
As pressure mounts on the Federal Government to deliver a net zero by 2050 target, the Nationals are not being quiet about their resistance to stronger climate action. Plus, will the government’s COVID missteps be forgiven and forgotten by the time the federal election rolls around?
SMH/The Age Chief Political Correspondent David Crowe joins PK and Fran this week.
A landmark new security alliance with the UK and the US could escalate Australia's role in the Asia-Pacific, but will this increase tensions with China? Plus, Christian Porter's in hot water over an anonymous donation and Labor tackles diversity in its ranks.
With women's safety back in the spotlight, there's growing pressure on the Federal Government to do more to protect women and girls. Plus, as the states stoush over vaccine allocation, Scott Morrison's secretive trip to Sydney to visit for Father's Day has drawn ire.
As state and federal leaders continue to clash over the National COVID Plan, the vaccine rollout in Indigenous communities has come under the microscope. Plus, how should the Morrison Government deal with the companies who received JobKeeper while reporting soaring profits?
ABC international affairs analyst Stan Grant joins Fran and PK this week.
The Morrison Government is reclaiming the COVID narrative, but Labor's got a bone to pick about the national plan to reopen the country. Plus, in the wake of the crisis in Afghanistan, is it time to revisit Australia's tough border policy?
SMH/The Age Columnist and Senior Writer Jacqueline Maley joins Fran and PK this week.
The fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban has created a new humanitarian crisis and Scott Morrison's response is drawing scathing criticism. Plus, could more have been done to prevent the spread of COVID into vulnerable communities?
Scott Morrison is feeling the heat over Australia's climate policy following the IPCC's latest report, which warns we're running out of time to prevent catastrophic global warming. Plus, what are the ramifications of NSW's controversial new COVID strategy?
We go behind the potential incentives for vaccine uptake and modelling that underpins Australia's pathway to living with COVID-19. Plus, the contention over the Morrison Government's temporary promotion of Christian Porter.
As NSW's prolonged lockdown sparks fears of a recession, the Federal Government has boosted its COVID support payment, which now looks a lot like JobKeeper. Plus, why has Labor done an about-face on some of their key economic policies?
The Age and Sydney Morning Herald's senior economics correspondent Shane Wright joins Fran and PK.
The Morrison Government is feeling the heat, with three states in lockdown, low vaccination rates and sinking approval ratings. Plus, whatever happened to the Gaetjens report into an alleged rape in Parliament House?
Guardian Australia's Political Editor Katharine Murphy joins Fran and PK.
The Federal Government is dealing with COVID-related fires on many fronts, as the Victorian Government accuses them of favouritism, Kevin Rudd involves himself in the rollout and a "graphic" ad campaign draws criticism.
And when it comes to COVID-19, it's all about the messaging. The ABC's Political Editor Andrew Probyn joins Fran and PK.
Parliament's workplace culture is back in the spotlight after former Liberal MP Julia Banks reveals she experienced months of gaslighting, bullying and an unwanted sexual advance in Canberra. Plus, Australia's vaccination rollout — what does war have to do with it?
7:30's chief political correspondent Laura Tingle joins Fran and PK.
As COVID-19 variants take over Australia, the pace of our vaccination rollout and health advice in relation to the AstraZeneca dose have come under fire. Meanwhile, is another rorts inquiry on the cards for the Coalition government?
The Australian Financial Review's National Affairs columnist Jennifer Hewett joins Fran and PK.
The Nats have re-Joyced, but what does the resurrection of Barnaby Joyce as Deputy Prime Minister mean for the Coalition’s policies on climate change and agriculture? Plus, the 'deviant' Delta variant that's taking over New South Wales.
Kath Sullivan, the ABC's National Rural reporter, joins Fran and PK to discuss.
The Biloela family has received some temporary reprieve as they are reunited in Perth, but questions remain about their future. And, what Prime Minister Morrison's trip to Cornwall means for Australia's climate ambitions.
David Crowe, chief political correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, joins Fran and PK.
The Morrison government has announced temporary support payments for Australians living in lockdown, as Victoria's latest COVID outbreak raises tough questions about the management of the crisis.
Patricia Karvelas and Insiders Host David Speers discuss this weeks' headlines with Guardian Australia's Political Editor Katharine Murphy.
Three months since allegations surfaced about Parliament House's working culture, questions still remain about what's being done to fix it. Plus, the latest on Victoria's COVID-19 outbreak and our vaccination rollout.
The Australian Financial Review’s Political Editor, Phil Coorey joins Fran and PK to uncover what's happening in the corridors of Parliament House.
A year on since the COVID-19 pandemic began, Prime Minister Scott Morrison's approach to re-opening international borders has taken a big shift. Plus, the government's new 600-million-dollar plan to 'cook with gas'.
Peter Van Onselen, Political Editor for Network Ten and columnist for The Australian joins Fran and PK.
As the federal government begins selling the budget, senior ministers walk back assumptions that every Australian who wants to be vaccinated will be by the end of the year.
Shane Wright, Senior Economics Correspondent with The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, joins Fran and PK.
It's been called the 'Hot Chocolate' budget after their hit single 'Every 1's a Winner'. In his second pandemic budget, Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg clears off the barnacles, neutralises some of the government's vulnerabilities and kicks ideology down the road.
Fran and PK break it down in this special budget wrap.
Controversy over the federal government's temporary travel ban from India has left the Prime Minister feeling the heat from all sides this week, but what does it have to do with Johnny Depp's dogs?
Patricia Karvelas and Insiders Host David Speers prepare for the federal budget with AM's Sabra Lane.
Home Affairs secretary Michael Pezzullo warns the 'drums of war' are beating louder, after Defence Minister Peter Dutton says Australia should not rule out the prospect of a conflict with China over Taiwan.
Peter Hartcher from The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald joins Fran and PK on The Party Room.
This week sees the government hastily pivoting on climate before the Biden Administration's climate summit. Plus, why a milkshake video drew the ire of the internet.
Guardian Australia's chief political correspondent Sarah Martin joins Fran and PK on The Party Room.
Former Australia Post CEO Christine Holgate breaks her silence over the Cartier watches controversy, but what does gender have to do with it? 7:30's chief political correspondent Laura Tingle is with Fran and PK.
The latest Cabinet reshuffle sees several women elevated to the highest ranks in government and the establishment of a women's taskforce. But will it leave women doing the heavy lifting?
David Crowe, the chief political correspondent for The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, joins Fran and PK.
We go behind the Prime Minister's backflip on gender quotas and his attempt at a reset on Tuesday. Plus, what could a reshuffle mean for Attorney-General Christian Porter and Defence Minister Linda Reynolds?
Triple J Hack’s Political Reporter Shalailah Medhora joins Fran and Insiders Host David Speers this week.
Thousands of people marched around the country this week to call for an end to sexism and sexual harassment. What will the rallies mean for Parliament House? Plus, what are the practical implications of the government splitting Christian Porter's Attorney-General responsibilities?
Guardian Australia's political correspondent Amy Remeikis is on The Party Room.
With the Defence Minister, Health Minister and Attorney General on sick leave, how will the government manage the next crucial sitting fortnight? And Australia watches as the Prime Minister grapples with managing the response to parliament rape allegations.
Dr Julia Baird from ABC's The Drum joins Fran and PK.
Attorney-General Christian Porter has identified himself as the Cabinet Minister accused of raping a teenage girl in 1988. He strenuously denies the claim.
Guardian Australia's Political Editor Katharine Murphy joins Fran and PK to discuss the potential fallout.
Pressure remains on the Morrison government over who knew what and when about former Liberal staffer Brittany Higgins' rape allegations. Plus, JobSeeker's rate rise and what's behind Craig Kelly's resignation from the Liberal Party?
Samantha Maiden, Political Editor with news.com.au joins Fran and PK in the Party Room.
Rape allegations have highlighted the issue of the safety of women in Parliament House. And Facebook has banned Australian users from accessing news in their feeds in response to the federal government's media bargaining code.
7:30's chief political correspondent Laura Tingle is with Fran and PK to pour over the details.
The Prime Minister's "preference" to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 has been complicated by Nationals backbenchers threatening to cross the floor. Will internal resistance spell the end for a net-zero emissions target?
Plus, Insiders host David Speers joins Fran and PK to hone in on Labor's industrial relations policy.
The first sitting week of 2021 begins with Prime Minister Scott Morrison under pressure to do more on climate change. And what will division over climate change targets mean for Anthony Albanese's leadership?
The ABC's political editor Andrew Probyn joins Fran and PK to kick off The Party Room for 2021.
The final sitting week of 2020 is ending with the unveiling of a long-awaited IR bill that’s already causing fireworks.
On our last episode of The Party Room for 2020 Sydney Morning Herald columnist Jacqueline Maley joins Fran and PK.
They dissect the issues that dominated politics in 2020: the pandemic, China and climate change
An offensive, fabricated tweet sent by the Chinese Foreign Ministry has taken relations with our biggest trading partner to an all-time low.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s demands for an apology and for the tweet to be taken down have so far been ignored, so what’s the end game?
Peter Hartcher, the Political and International Editor for The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald joins Fran and PK in The Party Room.
As Queensland relaxes its borders and South Australia returns to some normality, The Party Room talks about the politics of COVID-19.
And The Guardian's political reporter Amy Remeikis joins Fran and PK to also discuss the cost of former Finance Minister Mathias Cormann’s campaign for the top job at the OECD.
PK and David Speers talk about the landmark report outlining Australia's alleged war crimes in Afghanistan.
A Four Corners investigation has raised concerns about the conduct of two senior Cabinet ministers and their dealings with female staffers.
It’s also raised questions about the workplace culture in Parliament House, and the lack of industrial protections for political employees.
This week Sam Maiden, Political Editor with news.com.au joins Fran and PK in the Party Room.
What will the outcome of the US election mean for Australia?
Prime Minister Scott Morrison says he’s confident in American democracy and that the historic turnout is “actually a demonstration of democracy working.”
The Australian Financial Review’s Political Editor, Philip Coorey joins the Party Room to discuss the US poll, that other election in Queensland and the momentum toward a federal anti-corruption agency.
Melburnians are rejoicing over the long awaited easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
And with the Reserve Bank now suggesting Australia may have come out of recession, there are plenty of reasons for optimism.
But there’s anger as well as elation, with federal Liberal MPs highly critical of the way the Victorian Government has been handling the crisis.
Host of Drive on ABC Melbourne, Raf Epstein joins PK and guest co-host David Speers on The Party Room.
The gulf between Victoria and the Federal Government is widening as bickering over the pace and priorities of the state’s reopening gets personal.
And in senate estimates, the spotlight on a dodgy land deal is prompting fresh calls for a federal anti-corruption body.
ABC Political Editor Andrew Probyn joins Fran and PK in the Party Room to dissect the latest developments in #auspol
The Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews and NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian are both under incredible pressure.
The COVID-19 pandemic has lifted them to national prominence but they’re now both embroiled in accountability issues.
Both premiers have survived no confidence motions but are they dispensable or too good to lose?
This week Laura Tingle, chief political correspondent with 7.30 joins the Party Room to discuss leadership, integrity and judgement, along with the same old political fights over tax cuts contained in the Federal Budget.
The big sell is on, with the PM and his ministers hitting the airwaves to promote the government’s big-spending budget.
But while business is largely on board, unions, community and welfare groups have taken aim at #Budget2020, slamming a lack of support for women and older workers.
So what are the economic consequences of the Coalition’s policy choices, and how will the politics play out?
Shane Wright, Senior Economics Correspondent with The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, joins Fran and PK on The Party Room.
Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has handed down a budget clearly aimed at getting us all spending.
The Government's economic blueprint includes tax cuts, business investment allowances, an asset write-off and hiring incentives, and will rack up nearly a trillion dollars in net debt.
But the Opposition says it delivers insufficient bang for the money spent, with women and older workers left out.
In this bonus episode of the Party Room, Fran and PK give their initial assessments of #Budget2020
The Federal Government is laying the groundwork for a budget aimed at rebooting an economy, badly bruised by the coronavirus shutdown.
An $18 billion investment in technology to reduce carbon emissions and a $4.5 billion upgrade of the National Broadband Network have already been announced.
Wage subsidies, tax cuts and infrastructure are all going to be in the mix too, but will we see the kind of structural reforms economists are crying out for?
The Federal Government has pre-empted its meeting with the states by unilaterally raising the international arrivals cap, letting an additional 2000 Australians back into the country.
But it's the states that will have to provide the quarantine facilities and they're not impressed.
Meantime, with the budget just a few weeks away, the Morrison Government has begun laying out its energy policy.
But is gas really the way to power the post-pandemic economic recovery, or should the Government be more focused on renewables?
If you thought tensions between the Victorian and Federal Government couldn't get any bigger, think again.
It was a week where the Prime Minister ramped up his attack on Victoria, and compared it to the gold standard of NSW.
But how were his comments received in Victoria, even though the prism of extended restrictions?
Australia is officially in recession and it's set to be the deepest one since the Great Depression.
While the government contends with a 7 per cent contraction in the economy, tensions with the states and China continue to simmer.
And, an ex-PM makes a comeback (again)
To unpack it all, PK and Fran are joined by AM host Sabra Lane.
As Parliament returns it's been a historic week in Canberra, with MPs joining via video link for the first time.
In the halls of power, our politicians are already discussing the story they'll try to sell at the election with some tipping we could be voting again within a year.
Outside Canberra, relations between the states and the Federal Government continue to sour and new branch stacking allegations come to light in Victoria.
To help break it all down PK and Fran and joined by the ABC's Political Editor Andrew Probyn.
Relations between the Federal Government and Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews are getting worse by the day.
This week has seen a very public spat over mistakes made in the state's hotel quarantine program.
And what's happened to federation? Australia's states are continuing to keep their borders closed, and will do for the foreseeable future.
PK and Fran are joined by ABC Melbourne Drive host Raf Epstein to unpack what it means.
The Federal Government has released figures from Treasury indicating additional restrictions in Victoria will have a huge cost to the national GDP.
It's just one of the horror numbers this week from the continuing coronavirus crisis in Victoria. We've also continued to set new daily records for the number of new cases.
To help break it all down, PK and Fran and joined by The Australian Financial Review's national affairs columnist Jennifer Hewitt.
With dire numbers coming out of Victoria and a devastating death toll mounting in aged care centres, governments are scrambling to contain COVID-19.
Meanwhile, new Closing The Gap targets have been signed off.
And Foreign Minister Marise Payne and Defence Minister Linda Reynolds head to the US for AUSMIN talks.
To unpack it all, Fran and PK are joined by Peter Hartcher, political editor and international editor of The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age.
As budgetary holes go, this is a big one.
Australia's budget deficit has hit almost $86 billion last financial year, with the Treasurer Josh Frydenberg revealing the biggest blow to the bottom line since World War II.
Coronavirus is being squarely blamed for the budgetary disaster.
Luckily The Party Room is back just in time to help break it all down and guide you thought it all.
Fran and PK are joined today by Insiders' host David Speers.
As coronavirus restrictions continue to leave thousands of Australians out of work, the Federal Government is racing to keep up with the virus and #flattenthecurve.
Panic buying, event cancellations and looking down the barrel of recession.
With the coronavirus putting strain on the community, this health crisis is going to cause serious political and economic problems.
Political editor of the Sunday News Corp papers Annika Smethurst joins PK and guest host David Speers.
How does the Morrison Government's $17.6 billion stimulus package affect you?
Is it the shot in the arm our economy needs to survive coronavirus and a recession?
While the Prime Minister danced around what the pandemic means for the promised Budget surplus, it now seems unlikely.
Editor of Guardian Australia Lenore Taylor joins Fran and PK to go through what stimulus means for you.
A lot has happened since The Party Room was at WOMAdelaide last year.
Remember those predictions that Labor would win Government? As it turns out, wrong wrong wrong.
But never afraid to admit it, The Party Room returns to WOMAdelaide in 2020 to make good.
This is a special episode for International Women's Day.
Fran and PK talk domestic violence with the Greens Senator Sarah Hanson-Young and the sports rorts saga with Federal Member for Mayo Rebekha Sharkie.
Plus a whole lot more!
While Australians have been busy buying up toilet paper, our leaders have been battling it out for control of the political message.
Anthony Albanese wants to keep the sports rorts saga in the spotlight, but Scott Morrison says Australians are more concerned about coronavirus.
Fran and PK are joined by Jennifer Hewett, National Affairs Columnist at the Australian Financial Review.
Is Coronavirus about to put an end to the Government promised Budget surplus?
Has Labor scored an own goal by announcing its climate policy without saying how it'll work?
And if that's not enough, the sports funding controversy is never far away.
Fran and PK are joined this week by the ABC's political editor Andrew Probyn.
How much do you really know about the sacking of Gough Whitlam on November 11, 1975?
You've probably heard his famous "well may we say" speech made on the day he was dismissed.
But do you properly understand the extraordinary events leading up to the most dramatic day in Australian political history? How did it happen?
For this bonus episode of The Party Room, award-winning ABC journalist Alex Mann joins Fran and PK to tell them all about his new podcast The Eleventh.
It's all about the story about what happened November 11, 1975.
Listen to The Eleventh for free now on Apple Podcasts, your favourite podcast app, RSS, or find it on the ABC Listen app.
On The Party Room this week, Fran and PK wonder what the Government is up to on climate change.
A possible new climate policy has been reported in the papers, but the PM is refusing to say if it's actually a thing.
Sydney Morning Herald political and international editor Peter Hartcher joins them to offer his two cents on how he reckons China has played Australia on Coronavirus.
And why do politicians always say "that's a really good question"? Are they just being polite or is there another reason?
Guerrilla warfare has broken out in the Nationals' party room.
On Monday, Llew O'Brien quit the LNP and defected to the Liberals.
Then in a surprise and embarrassing twist for the Government, he was elected as Parliament's Deputy Speaker with Labor's help.
And it's not over for the Nats, with talk of another leadership spill.
7.30's Chief Political Correspondent Laura Tingle joins The Party Room podcast this week.
The year's first week of Parliament has not been as expected.
With Tuesday set aside for tributes and condolence motions for those who have lost their lives in the bushfires, the Nationals had a leadership spill.
It may have been Bridget McKenzie's resignation over the sports rorts saga which prompted the vote, but it's laid bare "the climate wars" within the Nats and Coalition more broadly.
Political Editor for the Australian Financial Review Phil Coorey joins Fran and PK in The Party Room.
The country has not had a good start to 2020 and neither has the Federal Government.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison felt the community anger firsthand when he visited bushfire ravaged South Coast NSW.
And after his National Press Club address this week, he felt the heat from journalists over the sports rorts saga.
And outlined plans to try to give the Federal Government more powers to deal with natural disasters in the future.
All this as another challenge for the country emerges: coronavirus.
ABC Insiders host David Speers joins Fran and PK for a bumper first episode of The Party Room for 2020.
Ending the parliamentary year on a high note, the Government successfully repealed medevac legislation.
Senator Jacqui Lambie controversially helped the Government get it across the line.
Senator Lambie maintains a deal was done, but the Government insists there was no deal.
Meanwhile, US author Naomi Wolf is pursuing Energy Minister Angus Taylor over his maiden speech to parliament.
ABC's national affairs correspondent Greg Jennett joins Fran and PK on their final episode of The Party Room for the year.
With the Parliamentary year fast running out, the Government wants to get its Medevac Bill and ensuring integrity legislation passed.
But Prime Minister Scott Morrison is copping it for phoning his former neighbour, NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller, about the investigation into #AngusGate.
Chief Political Correspondent of The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald David Crowe joins Fran and PK in The Party Room.
The government overhauled its controversial robodebt scheme, was it because they didn't ask whether the process was legal?
And Attorney General Christian Porter announced this week that religious hospitals and aged-care providers will be granted the same protections as religious schools and organisations to employ staff according to their beliefs.
Guardian Australia's political editor Katharine Murphy joins Fran and PK in The Party Room.
It didn't take long for politicians to weigh in on the unprecedented bushfire situation taking place in NSW and Queensland this week.
There was an ongoing discussion about whether it was the right time to discuss climate change in relation to the fires.
ABC's political editor Andrew Probyn spoke to Fran and PK in The Party Room this week.
This week a warts and all post-election autopsy was released by the Labor Party into their shock election loss.
Fran and PK analyse the findings, alongside ABC political writer and commentator Annabel Crabb.
Plus, the Morrison government's drought funding package had to strike a balance between providing support for farmers, protecting the budget surplus, and bring the Nats alongside after weeks of tension within the Coalition.
Academic Marcia Langton and former race discrimination commissioner Tom Calma will lead a consultation process to formulate design options for an Indigenous advisory body to government.
It's an announcement that comes amidst criticism that the Prime Minister has ruled out enshrining a voice to parliament in the constitution.
Plus Labor leader Anthony Albanese gave a speech in which he outlined his vision for the future of the Labor Party, and there's been some mixed messaging on drought relief policy.
David Speers, in his final week as Sky News Political Editor, joins Fran and Patricia in The Party Room.
Grumbling and politicking dominated the Canberra bubble this week.
The Nationals pitched for more glory over drought relief, and Anthony Albanese had a win with the removal of John Setka from the Labor Party.
Phil Coorey, political editor for the Australian Financial Review, spoke with Fran and Patricia.
Parliament is sitting this week, and the agenda is all about drought, the climate and Australia's foreign relations.
An attempt by the Greens, Labor and the crossbench to declare a "climate emergency" was voted down.
And the Prime Minister's office sent a set of talking points to the entire press gallery.
Chief political correspondent for Guardian Australia Sarah Martin spoke with Fran and PK on The Party Room this week.
The White House announced the withdrawal of troops from northern Syria on Sunday, prompting a range of responses from Australian leaders.
And Labor is split on the best climate change policy going forward.
Columnist and senior fellow at ANU Mark Kenny spoke to Fran and PK about the week in politics.
The Prime Minister has spent the last week in the United States, meeting and greeting with President Donald Trump.
It's quite an interesting time to be there, as House Democrats announce they'll be launching a formal impeachment inquiry.
Journalist and ABC contributor Sara James joins The Party Room to unpack the visit and its potential consequences for Australia.
This week, parliamentarians and journalists alike attended a Midwinter Ball in Spring. And this time, speeches were on the record.
Also on the agenda, Prime Minister Scott Morrison headed to the United States, where the President has rolled out the red carpet.
Meanwhile, Pauline Hanson sparks outrage over her comments about the Family Court, and John Setka defends his campaigning style.
Greg Jennett is a political correspondent and presenter with ABC News, he joins Fran and PK on The Party Room.
One thing that's gotten in the way of the government's message this week is Senator Jacquie Lambie, she's made it clear that she has concerns about the Government's welfare reform package.
Liberal backbencher Gladys Liu made headlines too this week over her association with an organisation linked to China's foreign interference operations.
Malcolm Farr is the national political editor of news.com.au, he joined Fran and PK in The Party Room this week
Australia's economy has slowed to a decade low, with the worst annual growth recorded since the global financial crisis.
One Tamil family is fighting to remain in Australia, and the question over their deportation has taken over the political conversation.
Plus, a Liberal Party fundraiser, further AFP raids and a mix of faith and politics.
Katharine Murphy, Guardian Australia's political editor, joins Fran and PK on The Party Room.
Australian writer and political commentator Yang Hengjun was formally arrested this week on suspicion of committing crimes of espionage.
The development has coincided with a shift in the language our politicians are using around China.
The Prime Minister also spent the weekend rubbing shoulders with powerful world leaders at the G7 Summit, and ICAC revelations have been bad news for Labor.
Sky News Political Editor David Speers joins Fran and PK on The Party Room this week.
The Government is promoting itself as the go-to partner in the Pacific, to try appease regional leaders unhappy with Australia.
But it hasn't gone entirely smoothly - with Australia arguing about climate change and making gaffes about fruit pickers.
And as pro-Hong Kong and counter pro-Beijing protests rage across Australia, China's influence is under the microscope, particularly on uni campuses.
Nine News political editor Chris Uhlmann joins PK and Fran in The Party Room to break it all down.
It's the Pacific Islands Forum in Tuvalu and climate change is the number one issue.
Regional leaders have let Australia know they're not happy with our penchant for coal.
But in the background, Beijing is working to increase its influence in the Pacific.
Guardian Australia Editor Lenore Taylor joins PK and Sabra Lane in The Party Room.
It's the last week before politicians depart for a winter break.
The Government wanted to concentrate on its so-called union-busting bill, but pressure over Newstart and the Crown Casino saga broke into the political news cycle.
And the Liberal Party's treatment of women has resurfaced as a key issue after two women claimed their sexual assault allegations were swept under the carpet internally.
Annabel Crabb stands-in for PK this week, and Amy Remeikis from Guardian Australia joins Fran and Annabel in The Party Room.
Politicians are back in the nation's capital this week, and the Government has had a win on its drought fund and is expecting a win on its national security legislation.
On both issues, they've attempted to wedge Labor, by painting them as the enemy of the people.
David Crowe, chief political correspondent for the Sydney Morning Herald and The Age, joins Fran and PK on The Party Room.
The economy doesn't seem to be doing too well at the moment and there are all sorts of ideas to get it growing faster - but is the Federal Government reluctant to spend to protect its forecast surplus?
And what was the political fallout from Australia's first Indigenous Minister for Indigenous Australians Ken Wyatt's vision for Constitutional Recognition and an Indigenous Voice to Parliament?
ABC AM's Sabra Lane joined Fran and PK in The Party Room this week.
The Government will pass its full $158 billion tax cut package.
It's secured enough crossbench support, with Centre Alliance and Jacqui Lambie on board.
National Affairs Columnist for the Australian Financial Review Jennifer Hewett joins The Party Room.
The bosses of the nation's three biggest media organisations came together this week to call for better press freedom protections.
National Politics Editor for News Corp Sunday Annika Smethurst, whose work is at the heart of this push, spoke to Fran and PK about whether she's reassured by the unusual show of unity.
Also: calls and counter calls over the Government's tax cut package, freedom of speech fights, a constitutional conundrum, a dinner date with US President, and a potential breach of ministerial guidelines.
Pressure is building on union leader John Setka to resign from his role at the CFMMEU.
Opposition Leader Anthony Albanese has promised to boot Setka from the Labor Party over comments he reportedly made about Rosie Batty. But parts of the union movement are fighting back.
Plus, Cory Bernardi is ruminating on the idea of a reunion with the Liberal Party, and Government refuses to budge on their income tax package plans.
The Australian Financial Review's Phil Coorey joins Fran and PK on The Party Room.
The Australian Federal Police conducted two raids on the ABC and News Corp journalist Annika Smethurst this week, starting a huge debate about the public's right to know.
The Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the Government is "absolutely committed to press freedom" but that "no one is above the law".
Although, fears remain that the raids will create a chilling effect for whistle blowers, who may think twice before risking their freedom by coming forward.
Meanwhile, Kristina Keneally is positioned to take on Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton, and Australia's economy has slowed to levels last seen during the global financial crisis.
Shane Wright is the senior economics correspondent for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, he joined Fran and PK on The Party Room.
The week began with a reshuffle for the incoming Morrison Government frontbench.
There was plenty to talk about with Ken Wyatt becoming Australia's first Aboriginal Minister for Indigenous Australians.
Meanwhile, Labor is having a couple of issues over its own refresh and reshuffle with Ed Husic stepping down to make way for Kristina Keneally.
ABC's national affairs correspondent Greg Jennett fills in as co-host with PK this week.
Plus, Sarah Martin, chief political correspondent at Guardian Australia joins The Party Room to talk it all over.
As the dust settles on the newly elected 46th Parliament, there's a lot of shuffling going on.
Promised tax cuts could be delayed because Parliament may not be convened before June 30.
The Labor Party is looking to choose a new leader. If it's Anthony Albanese, who will be his deputy?
Plus, who's in and who's out of a potential Morrison ministry?
David Crowe is Chief Political Correspondent for The Age and the Sydney Morning Herald, he joins Fran and PK.