Backchat: Recent Episodes
FBi Radio
Your alternative to talkback. Backchat is a weekly show of news, politics, interviews, discussion, satire, and feature reporting. Hosted by Swetha Das and Shami Sivasubramanian. Executive produced by Natalie Sekulovska, with producers Amelia Zhou and Cameron Wilson. Got an idea for a story? - backchat@fbiradio.com We're also on Twitter @BackchatFBi
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Commuters, drivers and Western Sydney students were among the state budget's winners... but what about the losers? Producer Rebecca Cushway dives deep on where the money is flowing.
On a related note, UNSW has just announced plans to expand their presence in Parramatta by building a new campus. Over ten years the University will invest over $65 million in a multi faculty campus that can accommodate up to 350 students daily. Pro Vice-Chancellor of Precincts at UNSW Professor Zoe Terpening joins the show for a chat.
You also may or not be aware of the job cuts happening across regional newsrooms right now. According to Ette Media there have been 336 across Australian media just in the last month. Producer Tarni Cruickshank chats to a freshly graduated journalism student.
Meanwhile, the FIFA World Cup has kicked off - a huge point of praise has been the diversity of Australia’s team, the Socceroos, with over 15 different cultural backgrounds in a 26-man team. At the same time, One Nation, a party that aims to “cut immigration by over 570,000 people from current Labor levels” and “withdraw from the UN Refugee convention”, has opened up a primary vote lead over Labor.P roducer Anagha Abhi asks writer, lawyer and anti-racism activist Mariam Veiszadeh why multiculturalism feels uncontroversial in Australian sport but controversial in public policy.
And with AI becoming an inescapable part of modern life, Sydney-based artist Tim Gregory joins the show to weigh in on whether AI belongs in public art.
This episode was produced by Sana Shaikh, Anagha Abhi, Birdie Rinaldi and Tarni Cruickshank.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Bec Cushway and Nyaboth Chuol.
Aired 27 June 2026 on Gadigal land.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On April 26, eleven Australians set sail from Sicily aboard the second Global Sumud Flotilla with the mission to break the Israeli siege on Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid.
Among the activists was 22-year-old community organiser Ethan Floyd. Following the interception of their vessel in international waters, Ethan and five fellow activists were detained by the Israeli Occupation Forces. After reporting physical and psychological abuse during their detention, Ethan returned to Australia on Monday, May 4 at 5:00 PM.
Producer Gabriella Accaria sat down with Ethan to discuss his experience and his continued commitment to the mission.
Content warning: graphic descriptions of physical and psychological abuse.
Aired 9 May 2026 on Gadigal Land.
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Palantir Technology is in the news, and not in a good way. Tech reporter at Crikey Cam Wilson dives into the controversial tech company's growing influence on global politics, including how it's become entangled with Australian surveillance and international conflict.
Is conservatism making a comeback among young people? A new report from IPSOS and the King’s College London suggests Generation Z may be embracing more traditional gender views. We speak with University of Melbourne PhD candidate Claudia Young about what’s driving this shift, from economic anxiety to the influence of the manosphere.
Later, we look at yet another collapse of a major Australian music event - Bluesfest. After decades as a staple of the Easter long weekend, the long anticipated festival has been cancelled, raising fresh concerns about the future of live music. Olly Arkins from the Australian Festivals Association explains why festival costs keep rising and what it means for artists, workers and regional communities.
We also break down the members of the Iran women's national football team being granted humanitarian visas after a protest during the AFC Women's Asian Cup. Analyst Neha Madhok helps explain the political context behind the decision and tensions between Iran, Australia, Israel, and the United States.
This episode was produced by Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, Bec Cushway, Holly Payne and Olivia Nunes-Malek.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis and Pongyada Soothipong.
Aired 14 March 2026 on Gadigal land.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Were you one of the hundreds of thousands gathered at Melbourne’s Albert Park to bring in the 2026 Formula One season last week? Producer Nyaboth Chuol breaks down F1's newfound popularity and diversity in the sport.
NSW Greens MP Sue Higginson joins to discuss the risks associated with Operation Shelter, a controversial new police operation initially designed to combat anti-semitism and islamophobia, which has since shifted to become a permanent command unit.
Backchat speaks to Lillian, one of the volunteers fighting to restore trans advocate Ayesha Kazan's quality of life. Best known as one of the original members of Les Girls, Ayesha is one of the pioneers of Sydney's drag scene.
Producer Pongyada Sootthipong speaks to protest organisers Zelda and Heike Weber about last week's protests to boycott Thai Airways in Sydney and Melbourne, after an investigation revealed the airline was transporting Australian-made weapons parts on passenger flights to Israel.
Greek economist, politician and author Yanis Varoufakis chats to producer Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis at the Greek Festival of Sydney about his recent memoir Raise Your Soul, and the “little fascist” within all of us.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Nyaboth Chuol, Jess D’Souza, Olivia Nunes-Malek, Pongyada Sootthipong and Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Jess D’Souza and Bec Cushway.
Aired 7 March 2026 on Gadigal land.
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Have you been keeping up with the Heated Rivalry craze? Producer Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis breaks down why women in particular are loving the show, and our obsession with the gay romance genre.
NSW’S first queer ice hockey club, Harbour Lights Hockey Club, celebrated Mardi Gras with the Pride on Ice Tournament. Producer Jess D’Souza speaks to Harbour Lights’ president Brigitta Slinn about the club’s pushes for queer representation in sport.
Producer Gabriella Accaria spoke to Dr Kenneth McCroary from the ACM and Dr Christopher Timms from the RACGP to find out more about the roll out of training for NSW GPs to diagnose and prescribe patients for ADHD.
Queer advocacy group Pride in Protest were banned from the Mardi Gras parade overnight. Evan Gray from PiP joins to talk about the decision to remove their float.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, Jess D’Souza, Gabriella Accaria, and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis.
Aired 28 February 2026 on Gadigal land.
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A terrorism charge has been laid over an attempted bombing at the Invasion Day rally in Perth, nine days after the attack. Producer Pongyada Sootthipong speaks to Roxy Moore, Noongar organiser of the Boorloo Invasion Day rally, about the aftermath of violence on a day of mourning and solidarity for the First Nations community.
Anti Cop founder Tom Raue joins to break down the heavily criticised police tactics used on peaceful protesters in Sydney who were rallying against Israeli president Isaac Herzog's visit to Australia last Monday.
Jaded with the sight of roses and chocolates on Valentine's Day? Producer Gabriella Accaria spoke to couples about the consumerism and heteronormativity that come with the holiday.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Pongyada Sootthipong, Sana Shaikh, and Gabriella Accaria.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Bec Cushway.
Aired 14 February 2026 on Gadigal land.
Want to support our show? Follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave us a five-star review, and share an episode with a friend.
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Ahead of Israeli president Isaac Herzog's state visit to Australia, producer Gabriella Accaria breaks down his political background and the reception of his visit by politicians and activist groups.
The findings from the coronial inquest into the Bondi Junction stabbing were recently handed down, highlighting the importance of housing for people living with a mental health condition. Habilis in Summer Hill provides low-cost housing for people living with a chronic mental health condition— their centre manager Linda Bowden joins us to explain how stable housing helps people get better access to mental health support.
Have you ever had a family dinner ruined because your Worst Uncle decided to share his awful AI-informed hot takes? Molecular biologist and president of the Science Journalists Association of Australia Dr Jackson Ryan is here with some strategies on dealing with misinformation from your family and friends.
Cinema workers at Village Cinema at the Crown Melbourne expressed concerns about their safety during a one-night only screening of Pauline Hanson's new animated film 'A Super Progressive Movie'. Producer Jessica D'Souza chats to the director of the Young Worker's Centre Victoria, Yolanda Robson to discuss the safety concerns cinema workers face during conservative film screenings.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Gabriella Accaria, Dani Zhang, Holly Payne and Jessica D'Souza.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Tanita Razhagi and Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis.
Aired 7 February 2026 on Gadigal land.
Want to support our show? Follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave us a five-star review, and share an episode with a friend.
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We're back for 2026!
The Australian Open is one of the biggest tennis tournaments in the world, so how did it turn into a spectacle of everything but tennis? Producer Gabriella Accaria unpacks the social, cultural, economic and geopolitical issues at the Australian Open with Daryl Adair, Associate Professor of Sport Management at the University of Technology Sydney.
Pride in Protest members and Mardi Gras board members Luna Choo and Damien Nguyen have been censored by the board's co-chairs after public internal struggles within the organisation. Founding PiP member Evan Ban Zijl joins us to chat more about the drama.
In the wake of the Bondi attack, the Labor government has passed new hate speech laws at a speed which has activists, lawyers and human rights organisations concerned. Timothy Roberts, Presidents of the New South Wales Council for Civil Liberties, joins us to break down these laws and question how much safer the community will be because of them.
The 26th of January is a day of mourning for First Nations people in Australia, but also marks Republic Day in India, when the country became fully independent from colonisation. Producer Jessica D'Souza discusses the complexities of this day for Indian-Australians with youth advocate Varsha Yajman and racial justice consultant and Democracy in Colour co-founder Neha Madhok.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Gabriella Accaria, Holly Payne, Jessica D’Souza, Sana Shaikh and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Holly Payne and Dani Zhang.
Aired 31 January 2026 on Gadigal land.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Producer Pongyada Sootthipong breaks down the drama at last week’s TikTok Awards in Sydney following allegations of racism against its Black creators. Zee Feed founder Crystal Andrews unpacks the discussions kicked up around Australia’s media diversity.
Would you swim in the Cooks River again? Backchat speaks to Brooke about her ventures diving in the river, amidst council plans to clean up the previously gorgeous swimming spot.
Ozempic-style medications are now poised to lead obesity treatment with support from the WHO. Dr Terri-Lynne South joins to discuss the future of Ozempic in Australian healthcare.
Producer Imogen Brosnan talks to Aussie Data Girl about her viral data map tracking which popular restaurants are getting away with food penalties right under our noses.
With Spotify Wrapped stories flooding our feeds last week, producer Dani Zhang investigates why we continue to use Spotify despite its ethical failings in recent years.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Pongyada Sootthipong, Gabriella Accaria, Euan Kielly, Imogen Brosnan and Dani Zhang.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Bec Cushway and Pongyada Sootthipong.
Aired 6 December 2025 on Gadigal land.
Want to support our show? Follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave us a five-star review, and share an episode with a friend.
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The City of Parramatta Council believes it has done its "fair share" in building housing, and will write to the state government to ask to be exempt from the Housing Development Authority. Backchat producer and local council head Holly explains what this means for development in Western Sydney.
The Albanese government increased funding for 1800 RESPECT by 40% in light of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. Sherele Moody, founder of the RED HEART Campaign and Australian Femicide Watch joins us to discuss what more needs to be done to eliminate gender-based violence.
How does climate change intersect with health? Dr John Van Der Kallen from Doctors for the Environment Australia breaks it down for us and speaks about how climate policy can better address the national health impact of climate change.
Last month, the City of Sydney updated Sydney's busking code that relegated buskers to specific spots in the city. Producer Nyaboth Chuol unpacks the changes and the impact it will have on Sydney's busking scene.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Euan Kielly, Nyaboth Chuol, Jess D’Souza and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Tanita Razaghi.
Aired 29 November 2025 on Gadigal land.
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Producer Euan Kielly breaks down the beef between pharmacists and GPs after a proposal to expand the scope of practice for pharmacists to include medicine prescriptions.
Demolition work has begun on a 35-year-old public housing estate in Glebe. Producer Gabriella Accaria unpacks the fight to defend public housing against privatisation with ACP member Dan Miller and Socialist Alliance seat for Sydney Rachel Evans.
Backchat speaks to Pride in Protest candidate for the Mardi Gras board, Luna Choo, about the new petition to stop over-policing at Mardi Gras parades, board elections, and what this means for Sydney’s queer community.
Has social media’s obsession with skincare gone too far? Producer Nyaboth Chuol breaks down the controversy around ‘Rini’, the new skincare brand made for children, and the exploitation of self-care with Dr Michelle Wong.
Producer Jess D’Souza discusses the implications of Teen Vogue’s merger with Vogue.com on youth media diversity and takeaways for the Australian media landscape. Founder of news initiative In My Head Kriti Gupta and Zee Feed co-founder Crystal Andrews pitch in.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Gabriella Accaria, Nyaboth Chuol, Jess D’Souza, Euan Kielly and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Tanita Razaghi.
Aired 15 November 2025 on Gadigal land.
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Who is putting up, and now tearing down, the Greek anarchist posters in Sydney’s suburb of Earlwood? Producer Gabriella Accaria talks to Dr Sky Croeza to investigate.
Producer Euan Kielly joins to break down the uptick in triple-zero outages and telecommunications failures in Australia.
Have you stumbled upon the ‘Cairo Takeaway needs our help’ posts on your social media feed? Backchat breaks down the legal defence battle between pro-Israel activist Ofir Birenbaum and much-loved Inner West restaurant Cairo Takeaway.
Recently, members of the National Socialist Network were seen protesting outside the Parliament House. Backchat spoke to what’s doin media founder Scobie McKay about the neo-Nazi organisation and its worrying impact on our communities.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Gabriella Accaria, Euan Kielly, Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Bec Cushway and Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis.
Aired 22 November 2025 on Gadigal land.
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Pro-Palestinian protestors clashed with police outside the recent Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition in Sydney. Dani Zhang takes us through how the government's support of the defence expo contradicts its public statements about Australia's role about the war in Gaza.
Producer Jessica D'Souza chats to NSW Treaty Commissioner Naomi Moran about the process towards a treaty with Aboriginal people in the state, following Victoria's passing of treaty legislation.
Can't keep up with Australia's climate policy updates? Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis breaks down all the latest flops from Labor and the Coalition with the Climate Council's Ben McCleod.
Producer Jaspar McCahon-Boersma unpacks the circumstances surrounding the government's recent murky deportations to Nauru with the Refugee Council of Australia's Dr Graham Thom. He also speaks to Zaki Haidari from Amnesty International, who speaks about his experience seeking asylum in Australia by sea.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Dani Zhang, Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, Jessica D'Souza, Jaspar McCahon-Boersma and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis.
Aired 8 November 2025 on Gadigal land.
Want to support our show? Follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave us a five-star review, and share an episode with a friend.
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Host Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis speaks about the controversial opening of a kebab shop by notorious Sydney influencer and outspoken homophobe, Spanian, in Sydney's queer capital, Newtown.
Executive producer Bec Cushway gives an update on the recent highs and lows of trans healthcare policies in Queensland.
Eva and Bec discuss the Labor Party's leaked talking points on Israel and Palestine and it's political ramifications wth Deep Cut News journalist Alex McKinnon. They also highlight international AI copyright laws with Dr. Louise Buckingham, looking into artists' rights amid AI advancements.
Producer Nyaboth Chuol delves into ASMR - a phenomenon that has gone from the fringes of the Internet to garnering mainstream attention.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Bec Cushway, Eva-Sikes Gerogiannis and Nyaboth Chuol.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Bec Cushway and Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis
Aired 1 November 2025 on Gadigal land.
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The Good Food Guide has announced that they are no longer recommending Merivale venues due to allegations made against the company, shortly after dropping Swillhouse venues late last year. Producer Bec Cushway joins to explain the impact on venues and food media.
Producer Gabriella Accaria investigates why Orthodox Christianity is seeing a revival among young people.
Have you wrestled with a chatbot while trying to make an insurance claim? Dr Alexandra Bratanova breaks down the Insurance Council of Australia and CSIRO's joint report on AI use in the insurance industry, and what the risks and benefits this move could pose for you.
Tim Roberts, President for the NSW Council for Civil Liberties, joins us to discuss the courts' decision to dismiss the cases for some of the 129 Rising Tide protesters charged after protesting the world’s largest coal port in Newcastle.
As his AURA tour in Australia began in Parramatta last weekend, producer Jessica D'Souza looks into Punjabi singer Diljit Dosanjh and how he’s inspiring a new generation of South Asian-Australian artists.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Bec Cushway, Gabriella Accaria, Pongyada Sootthipong, Sana Shaikh and Jessica D'Souza.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Pongyada Sootthipong.
Aired 25 October 2025 on Gadigal land.
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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
EDIT: This episode has been edited after broadcast to accurately reflect the input of the author of the petition to Mandate Trauma-Informed Training for All NSW Police Officers, Claudia Kuper.
Over ten thousand people have signed a legislative assembly petition calling for mandated trauma-informed training for NSW Police. Producer Pongyada Sootthipong speaks to lead petitioner Claudia Kuper and solicitor Sam Lee about trauma-informed responses and what systemic reforms are needed to implement them.
Cameron Francis, the CEO of not-for-profit drug testing service organisation The Loop joins us to discuss Queensland's recent ban on public and private pill testing operations.
We unpack the impacts of keratoconus (a chronic eye condition) on young people with Dr Jingjing You, a senior lecturer at the University of Sydney's School of Medical Sciences.
Have raves lost their meaning? Producer Bec Cushway investigates the history of raves and how Sydney's rave scene is being diluted.
The National Association of Renters' Organisations and National Shelter have released their second report card on renting in Australia. Producer Sana Shaikh speaks to CEO of the Tenants' Union of NSW Leo Patterson Ross on how New South Wales fared and what the results mean for Sydney renters.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Pongyada Sootthipong, Nyaboth Chuol, Elise Papaioannou, Sana Shaikh and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Bec Cushway.
Aired 27 September 2025 on Gadigal land.
Want to support our show? Follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave us a five-star review, and share an episode with a friend.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A new report from market research behemoth Roy Morgan has shown that, while fewer people think homosexuality is immoral than they did 20 years ago, the rate at which that is changing has slowed dramatically. Roy Morgan CEO Michele Levine joins the show to break down the findings.
As neo-nazis become increasingly visible on streets all around Australia, we're rerunning producer Emilios Kwasner-Catsivelakis' package on the psychology of radical political views.
General practice is increasingly hitting the headlines as sweeping Medicare changes loom. But will the November 1 reforms actually make it easier to see a doctor? Tasmanian GP Dr Toby Gardner is here to answer your questions.
This episode of Backchat was hosted by Pongyada Soothipong and Tanita Razaghi, and produced by Holly Payne, Rebecca Cushway and Emil Kwasner-Catsivelakis.
Executive Produced by Rebecca Cushway.
Aired 11 October on Gadigal Land.
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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are numbers and statistical data as objective as people think they are? Producer Nyaboth Chuol and journalist Madi Chwasta get into why understanding how stats work could stop you (and your middle aged relos on Facebook) from falling down a conspiracy theory rabbit hole.
Dani and Bec also chat with Estelle Grech, head of planning and policy at the Committee for Sydney, about whether Parramatta Road could be used for something other than traffic jams (what a concept!).
Later, producer Pongyada Sootthipong looks into why Sydney’s infrastructure is so terrible at coping with wet weather. Sam Kernaghan, Sanaa Shah and Matthew Thompson tell us whether they think our city is ready to withstand the worsening impacts of climate change.
Luna Choo from Pride in Protest came by the studio to chat about their thoughts on Mardi Gras - can a celebration that welcomes cops, corporations and pro-genocide voices truly celebrate queer lives?
Producer Jess D’Souza welcomed the warm weather with a discussion about Asian-American representation on ‘The Summer I Turned Pretty’ - finally, a conversation about TSITP with minimal Conrad v Jeremiah talk!
This episode of Backchat was produced by Nyaboth Chuol, Sana Shaikh, Pongyada Sootthipong, Bec Cushway and Jessica D’Souza.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Aired 20 September 2025 on Gadigal Land.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
To break down the recent news that Melbourne University Press is closing Meanjin, Australia’s second-oldest literary journal, Holly explains why this is about much more than just finances or literary snobbery.
A major conversation is unfolding in New South Wales following the state’s first drug summit in 25 years, with growing calls to reform driving laws for medical cannabis users. To unpack the issue, MP Alex Greenwich joined hosts Holly and Eva on the show.
The theme of this year's National Child Protection Week, was “shifting conversation into action.” One conversation gaining momentum is the Albanese government’s social media ban for under-16s, aimed at protecting kids online. Discussing the proposal and its potential impact, senior lecturer in digital and social media at UTS, Paul Byron, joined the show.
The long-running debate over shark nets has reignited after a fatal shark attack on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. In response, the NSW government has paused a planned trial to remove nets from certain beaches. To explore the controversy and whether shark nets really keep swimmers safe, our producer Olivia takes a closer look.
This episode of Backchat was hosted by Holly Payne and Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, and produced by Bec Cushway, Holly Payne, Elise Papaioannou, Jaspar McCahon-Boersma and Olivia Nunes-Malek.
Executive Produced by Rebecca Cushway.
Aired 13 September on Gadigal Land.
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To unpack the impacts of cancer rates skyrocketing in young people, Producer Jaspar McCahon-Boersma talks with hosts Dani Zhang and Tanita Razaghi, with audio from Rare Cancer Australia CEO Christine Cockburn.
A major campaign is slowly gaining momentum across New South Wales, calling on the state’s criminal justice system to provide extra support for victim-survivors of sexual violence. To dive deeper into the topic, Jacinta Masters, the Campaign Manager at Fair Agenda, joins the show.
For decades, sport’s been treated as a no-go zone for politics, a place to escape the world, not confront it. But that’s changing. Dr Kasey Symons, lecturer in Sports Media at Deakin University and co-founder of women in sport collective, Siren, breaks down the changes in sports and politics.
As neo-nazis become increasingly visible on streets all around Australia, producer Emilios Kwasner-Catsivelakis takes a look at the psychology of radical political views.
And Crystal Andrews, founder of publication Zee Feed and author of the essay ‘Let’s Not Give Conservative Politicians The Power of Becoming a Meme’ joins us to talk the memefication of right wing figures.
This episode of Backchat was hosted by Dani Zhang and Tanita Razaghi, and produced by Holly Payne, Gabriella Accaria, Jaspar McCahon Borsema, Jordan Santander, Olivia Nunes-Malek and Emil Kwasner-Catsivelakis.
Executive Produced by Holly Payne.
Aired 6 September on Gadigal Land.
Want to support our show? Follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave us a five star review, and share an episode with a friend.
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We start off the start of spooky season strong with a harrowing tale of real estate developers, NIMBYs and former antique dealers. Producer Holly Payne breaks down Woollahra's ghost train station and the future of development in the city's east.
Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance deputy CEO Adam Portelli also joins to discuss the death of journalists in Gaza.
Next, Asylum Seeker Resource Centre CEO and cookbook author Kon Karapanagiotidis speaks about his welcome feast for Palestinian refugees and the importance of not letting our hearts be dimmed by fear. Read more about Kon and his work here: https://asrc.org.au/kon/.
Producer Jaspar McCahon-Boersma spoke to researcher Dr Kaz Ross about the conspiratorial legal ideology of sovereign citizens and why it's been making headlines recently.
Last Monday, the government officially committed to expanding the Frist Home Buyers Grant. For our final story, producer Elise Papaioannou spoke to two young people hoping to crack into the housing market.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Jess D'Souza, Gabriella Accaria, Jaspar McCahon-Boersma, Elise Papaioannou and Harrie Hastings.
Executive produced by Sana Shaikh.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Tanita Razaghi.
Aired 30 August 2025 on Gadigal land.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For the first time in 25 years, the NSW government has launched a regional plan to support Western Sydney arts, culture and creative industries. Producer Pongyada Sootthipong joins to discuss how the plan will impact historically underfunded arts communities.
Have you or a loved one fallen in love with an AI companion? Producer Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis dives into the dark world of AI-induced psychosis with AI internet goth baddie girlfriend Aphrodisiac Jenkins.
While the name stands for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, PCOS doesn’t necessarily manifest in the ovaries every time, nor does it necessarily involve cysts every single time. Women’s health researcher Professor Helena Teede makes the case for why we should rename PCOS.
Producer Emil Kwasner-Catsivelakis speaks to designer and professor Timo Rissanen to unpack the blurry binding of politics and fashion and what we can do to stay ethical and sustainable.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Pongyada Sootthipong, Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, Holly Payne, Emilios Kwazner-Catsivelakis, and Harrie Hastings.
Executive produced by Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Holly Payne.
Aired 16th August 2025 on Gadigal land.
Want to support our show? Follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave us a five-star review, and share an episode with a friend. For more behind-the-scenes content, we are also on Instagram: @backchatfbiradio.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do young Australians still care about the Logies? Producer Jessica D'Souza dives into the lack of cultural representation of the Logies and the future of Aussie TV.
We live in an era of constant surveillance, and online and every little bit of our info is being harvested by tech companies to more effectively sell you stuff. Researcher Lena Prosky unpacks these risks and explores how weakened privacy laws and opaque algorithms are increasingly shaping access to information, services, and digital rights.
Backchat’s Pongyada Sootthipong visits Sydney’s Other Worlds Zine Fair to explore the political roots Featuring Simone Wong and Dr. Can Yanya, she dives into zines as art, activism, and community.
Clinical psychologist Dr. Danielle Einstein joins us to unpack the government's decision to include YouTube in the under-16 social media ban, highlighting growing mental health concerns among young people.
The Backchat team go on the ground at Sydney's historic March for Humanity to speak to protestors.
Palestine Action Group organiser Josh Lees joins us in the studio to talk about the outcome of the March.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Jess D'Souza, Gabriella Accaria, Nyaboth Chuol, Jordan Santander, Pongyada Soothpong and Jaspar McCahon-Boersma.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Holly Payne and Dani Zhang.
Aired 19th July 2025 on Gadigal land.
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On Thursday the 31st July, producer Gabriella Accaria attended the Australian Communist Party's screening of 'To Kill A War Machine', a documentary about Palestine Action and their militant strategy of targeting weapons manufacturers, a group that has been designated a terrorist group by the UK. In response, documentary producers Rainbow Collective have authorised no further screenings of the film until further notice.
Producer Gabriella Accaria spoke to ACP members Alice and Dan about why they chose to hold an unauthorised screening of the film, and how Australian pro-Palestine activism can take inspiration from Palestine Action’s militancy.
Aired 2 August 2025 on Gadigal Land.
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Last week, producer Jaspar McCahon-Boersma sat down with Eleanor Morley, the Secretary of the NSW Socialists party. Some of that interview made its way into his story on the launch of the party on our most recent Backchat episode below, but we wanted to bring you the full interview - and here it is.
If you haven't heard the story covering the party's launch, who rocked up, and what they care about, check it out in our previous episode.
Aired 2 August 2025 on Gadigal land.
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A new trend is currently taking social media users by storm - leaving some feeling relieved… and others very confused. Producer Olivia dives into the phenomenon of bathroom camping with clinical psychologist Dr Anna Sidis.
Writers are among Australia's lowest-paid creatives, earning an average of $18.5k per year. A new, permanent home for the Sydney Writer's Festival at the State Library of NSW might go some way toward addressing the issue. Festival CEO Brooke Webb came into the studio for a chat.
After developing tinnitus herself following an ear infection, producer Charlotte knows firsthand how isolating it can be. Last week, she spoke to audiologist Myriam Westcott to unpack the condition and how to manage it.
The NSW branch of the Australian Communist Party held an unauthorised screening of the documentary 'To Kill A War Machine', which features UK-based activist group Palestine Action. Backchat producer Gabriella attended the screening and spoke to party members Alice and Dan about the choice to screen the doco.
Producer Jaspar was also on the road this week, attending the launch of NSW Socialists, the state's newest official political party. His full chat with party secretary Eleanor Morley will be featured in a standalone podcast episode coming this week.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Charlotte Saker, Gabriella Accaria, Olivia Nunes-Malek, Holly Payne and Jaspar McCahon-Boersma.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Jaspar McCahon-Boersma.
Aired 2 August 2025 on Gadigal land.
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Last week, Australia signed onto a joint statement condemning some of Israel’s actions in Gaza. We discuss the Parliament’s position on Palestine - a symbolic statement or a hypocritical act?
We speak to one of Aunties Fund’s founders, Indu Balachandran, about their new organisation funding culturally supportive domestic and family violence support for South Asian women in Sydney.
Is Sydney really the 7th best city in the world for nightlife tourism? Amy Flanagan, head of bookings at King Street organiser Music and Booze Co, makes the case that Sydney’s nightlife is healthier than we think.
But why are so many live music venues closing, and what needs to change to keep the culture alive? Producer Harrie Hastings chats to Jim Flanagan of Lazy Thinking and Julia Johnson of ROMAEO about alternative models for supporting the live music sector.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, Jess D’Souza, Holly Payne, and Harrie Hastings.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis and Tanita Razaghi.
Aired 26th July 2025 on Gadigal land.
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How are campus policies being used to silence university staff and students organising for Palestine? Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis takes us inside the People’s Inquiry into Campus Free Speech on Palestine hearing.
Triple J’s first-ever Hottest Australian 100 drops next Saturday. We chat to musician Ben Lee about the future of Australian music and the countdown.
The Federal Court dismissed a lawsuit brought by Torres Strait Islander elders to protect their lands from climate change. Lawyer Brett Spiegel joins us to discuss the ruling’s impact on local communities and climate justice.
Is your local chicken shop next in line for a McDonald's takeover? We take a closer look at local council development applications and what they tell us about the future of your suburb.
Producer Gabriella Accaria weighs in on the objectification of women in sexually violent video games and the success of Australian organisation Collective Shout’s campaign against them. Content warning: sexual violence.
What’s behind Sydney’s obsession with mega infrastructure projects? Producer Emilios Kwasner-Catsivelakis and architect Gerard Reinmuth unpack how the city’s complex urban planning history impacts us.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, Holly Payne, Jess D’Souza, Gabriella Accaria and Emilios Kwasner-Catsivelakis.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Holly Payne and Tanita Razaghi.
Aired 19th July 2025 on Gadigal land.
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Australia dropped its 2026 Venice Biennale artists just days after announcing them. Jaspar McCahon-Boersma breaks down the backlash with Dr Ben Eltham.
We speak to Dr Clara Tuck Meng Soo about what Medicare changes could mean for trans healthcare ahead of the election.
Dr Kean-Seng Lim joins us to unpack whether new bulk billing incentives will actually help communities in Western Sydney.
Plus, Adriana Boisen from the NSW Council for Civil Liberties explains what new protest laws mean for your right to demonstrate.
Produced by Jaspar McCahon-Boersma, Holly Payne, Euan Kielly and Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Tanita Razaghi.
Audio produced by Bridgette Donnellan.
Aired 1st March 2025 on Gadigal land.
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Sydney’s train strikes have been dominating the news. Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis unpacks the union’s demands, the media’s spin, and what comes next.
Parsley Bay locals are protesting construction by Sydney Water. But is this a fight for the environment or just classic Sydney NIMBYism? Conservationist Nicole McMahon from Save Parsley Bay joins us to discuss.
With Mardi Gras around the corner, ACON has launched a new service for queer people in Greater Western Sydney. We speak with Director for HIV and Sexual Health Matthew Vaughan and community health promotion officer Duy Tran about why this service matters.
Sam Kerr has been in the headlines, but not for football. We chat with Matthew Klugman about what’s happening in her legal battle.
Plus, are Australian school results really declining, or is this just another media panic? Dr. Sally Larsen breaks down what the numbers actually say.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, Holly Payne, Grace Pittar, Bec Cushway, and Sana Shaikh.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Tanita Razaghi.
Audio produced by Bridgette Donnellan.
Aired 22nd February 2025 on Gadigal land.
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Enmore’s Cairo Takeaway had a run-in with Daily Telegraph journos that left a particularly bad taste in our mouths. Founder of Everything is Fine, Alex McKinnon, tells us what went down.
1 in 7 Australian women are affected by endometriosis - so why is it still underfunded? We chat with QENDO CEO Jess Taylor to find out.
Contraceptives just got cheaper! The government has added the pill to the PBS and increased Medicare rebates for IUDs. But do these changes actually make contraception more affordable for young people? Sana Shaikh speaks with Sue Shilbury, CEO of Family Planning Australia, to unpack the impact.
Antoinette Latouff vs ABC - what does this legal battle mean for young journalists and the future of media in Australia? Former CEO of Democracy in Colour Neha Madhouk and Journalist Monica Attard weigh in.
You might hear us mention the Sam Kerr trial in the intro, but the segment was cut due to time constraints.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, Holly Payne and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Dani Zhang and Tanita Razaghi.
Audio produced by Bridgette Donnellan.
Aired 15th February 2025 on Gadigal land.
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Have we witnessed the Coachella-fication of Laneway Festival? From fit checks on TikTok to performative crowds, producer Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis and Joe Hardy from SydneyMusic.net weigh in.
Feeling the heat? UNSW Associate Professor Lan Ding breaks down why Western Sydney is up to 10 degrees hotter than the inner city.
Jaspar McCahon-Boersma wraps up the international headlines that affect you.
Neo-Nazis crashed an Invasion Day rally - is far-right extremism spreading? Dr Kaz Ross explains how these networks are growing across Australia and what it means for Sydney.
Dutton wants to scrap diversity and equity programs - is this just election pandering or a deeper cultural shift? Founder and editor of Zee Feed, Crystal Andrews, joins us to discuss.
Why are new suburbs missing key transport infrastructure? Jeremy Gill from the Committee for Sydney talks urban planning and transit gaps.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Jaspar McCahon-Boersma, Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, Holly Payne and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Sana Shaikh and Jaspar McCahon-Boersma.
Audio produced by Bridgette Donnellan.
Aired 8th February 2025 on Gadigal land.
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What’s happening in international news? Jaspar McCahon-Boersma brings an update on headlines that affect you.
Local council dramaaaaaaa - because nothing gets Backchat going like local council tea. This story has it all - broken promises, finger pointing and a four-hour town hall.
How would you feel if the government told you what medical care you were allowed to have? Necho Brocchi (she/her), service delivery manager at Open Doors Youth Service, discusses the pause on gender-affirming care for trans youth.
What does the rise in anti-Semitism tell us about right-wing extremism here in Eora? Jordy Silverstein from the Loud Jews Collective breaks it down.
And what on Earth is going on with the Hottest 100?! Musician, producer and broadcaster, Ian McCarthy weighs in.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Jaspar McCahon-Boersma, Holly Payne, Sana Shaikh and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Holly Payne & Dani Zhang.
Audio produced by Bridgette Donnellan.
This episode aired 1st February 2025 on Gadigal land.
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See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How do you talk about Invasion Day with communities who don’t speak English as a first language? Phoebe McIlwraith breaks down the challenges of educating across languages.
What makes Yabun Festival the most important First Nations cultural event of the year? Miah Wright has the answers.
And Nooky is back to talk Blak Powerhouse - a night of music, storytelling, and Blak excellence.
This episode of Backchat was executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Holly Payne & Dani Zhang.
Audio produced by Bridgette Donnellan.
This episode aired 25th January 2025 on Gadigal land.
Want to support our show? Follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts, leave us a five-star review or share an episode with a friend.
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This week on Backchat, we spotlight powerful diaspora perspectives one year after the escalation of conflict in Palestine and Israel. Producer Sana Sheikh speaks with Palestinian-Australian activist Sara Shaweesh about the personal and political impact of the past 12 months. We also hear from Maggie of the anti-Zionist, anti-colonial Jewish group Tzedek Collective on solidarity and resistance within the Jewish diaspora.
Later, producer Euan Kielly dives into Australia’s new anti-doxxing laws. With insights from Professor Rob Cover and Dr. Nicola Henry, we explore how these changes could reshape online privacy, cybersecurity, and the fight against digital harassment.
This episode was produced by Sana Shaikh, Euan Kielly, and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Holly Payne and Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis.
Audio produced by Bridgette Donnellan.
This episode aired on Gadigal land on October 5, 2024.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat, producer Sumaiya Chowdhure and PhD student Lauren A. Miller unmask the mental health effects of constant self-viewing in the age of social media and augmented filters.
Then, employment lawyer Seri Feldman-Gubbay from Redfern Legal Centre breaks down new reforms that make it easier for victim-survivors of workplace harassment to seek justice.
Finally, we explore Green Music Australia’s new initiative to help musicians and artists use their work to fight climate change, featuring CEO Berish Bilander and musician Elana Stone.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Bec Cushway, Sana Shaikh, and Sumaiya Chowdhure.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Holly Payne and Tanita Razaghi.
Audio produced by Bridgette Donnellan.
This episode of Backchat aired on 28th September 2024 on Gadigal land.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat, producer Libby Hopper unpacks the NSW Government’s new funding for music festivals. Will it revive the local festival scene or is the industry still on life support?
Next, Western Sydney University med students Jessica Mitchell and Aleisha Watson share how 2000 hours of unpaid placements impact their studies and why the government’s support scheme should include med students.
Later, producer Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis explores the impact of a new AI chatbot in NSW public schools, talking to teachers about what this will mean for students and education.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, Libby Hopper, and Bec Cushway.
Executive produced by Bec Cushway.
Hosted by Holly Payne and Tanita Razaghi.
Audio produced by Bridgette Donnellan.
This episode of Backchat aired 21st September 2024 on Gadigal land.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat, we break down the issues that matter most to young people for the local government elections. Producer Sana Sheikh speaks to Greens candidate Abrar Ahmad about their proposals for South West Sydney.
After that, we talk with Liz Atkins from the Greens about the future of the Inner West. What are their promises for nightlife, housing and keeping a multicultural community?
Later on in the show, our producer Bridgette Donnellan dives into eating disorders and diet culture with author of ‘All I Ever Wanted Was To Be Hot’ Lucinda Froomes Price and Sarah Cox, National Helpline Manager for the Butterfly Foundation.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Sheikh, Euan Kielly and Bridgette Donnellan, executive produced by Bec Cushway, and hosted by Holly Payne and Dani Zhang.
This episode of Backchat aired 14th September 2024 on Gadigal land.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat, producer Libby Hopper breaks down the recently released WGEA data on the gender pay gap of Australian companies. How does your workplace stack up?
After that, in honour of remembering another year since the Stonewall riots, we’ve got Danny Lim in the studio to give us his take on the protest landscape in Sydney today.
Later on the show, Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis chats to leaders from Sydney Students for Palestine about the nationwide student strike for Palestine last Thursday.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Libby Hopper, Dani Zhang, and Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, executive produced by Bec Cushway, and hosted by Sana Sheikh and Tanita Razaghi.
This episode of Backchat aired 2nd March 2024 on Gadigal land.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat we’re chatting all things country music. Have you suddenly got friends who are sending you country songs? Seeing it around social media? We dive into why country music is having its moment right now with producer Dani Zhang.
We're also joined by the Coalition of Aboriginal Peak Organisations to hear about their new partnership agreement with the state government, focused on closing the gap in Indigenous disadvantage.
And earlier this week our producer Euan spoke to Phillipe Jacquot from the University of Sydney about how trending buzzwords from fitness influencers are conning consumers.
This episode of Backchat aired 17th Feb 2024. This episode was hosted by Holly Payne and Bec Cushway, produced by Dani Zhang, Nic Huntington, and Euan Kielly.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat we’re discussing the trending issue of doxxing and the new proposal for laws to combat this digital issue.
Producer Holly Payne is chatting about Sydney’s asbestos crisis with Shane McArdle from the Asbestos and Dust Diseases Research Institute.
And Nick Newington takes a look at the increasing issue of Australia’s syphilis epidemic, and how the mainstream media has been missing the story for the last decade.
This episode of Backchat was hosted by Holly Payne and Nick Newington, produced by Euan Kielly, Holly Payne, and Nick Newington. Backchat is broadcast on unceded Gadigal country, Saturdays at 9:30am on FBi 94.5fm.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat, producer Sana Shaikh delved into the Hills Shire Council's recent move to halt sponsorship for drag story time events, citing concerns about content aimed at kids. The council, situated in Sydney's vibrant Bible Belt, voted 10-2 to put the brakes on such events. The segment pondered what this decision might mean for LGBTQ+ youth in the area, featuring insights from Jasmine Nour, a drag artist and former Hills resident. Plus, Backchat caught up with Greens Councillor Dr. Mila Kasby, one of the two councillors who voted against the motion.
Producer Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis breaks down the recent ICJ ruling in the South African case against Israel and what it means in terms of enforcable recommendations for the nations involved. Will the Palestinian people see any change as a result?
It's been a big week for Sweatshop Literacy Movement. The community-based publisher have just released Povo, a collection of works from 37 culturally and linguistically diverse storytellers, including celebrated authors and organisers like Daniel Nour and Sara Saleh. The collection also features emerging voices with stories written from the Asylum Seekers Centre and from schools in Sydney's West. This week Backchat producer Lilly Grainger had the opportunity to sit down with Commissioning Editor, Adam Novaldy Anderson to get to know 'Povo,' its writers and better understand why empowering youth of diverse cultutral, linguistic and low socioeconomic backgrounds is so important.
This episode was hosted by Libby Hopper and Bec Cushway, and was produced by Sana Shaikh, Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, and Lilly Grainger.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the wake of another shark related incident in Sydney, Libby Hopper gets into the stigma around shark attacks and the do’s and don’ts for staying safe, not scared, in the water.
Medicare just turned 40 - is it in the midst of a midlife crisis? Hear from GP Dr Nicole Higgins on why health providers can no longer afford to bulk bill, the Strengthening Medicare Task Force and how Medicare support differs for our most vulnerable in rural, regional and metropolitan areas.
What do we need to know about the new changes to the Stage 3 Tax Cuts? Bec Cushway and Crystal Andrews of Zee Feed break it down.
This episode of Backchat aired Saturday 3rd February 2024.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Holly and Tanita talk to Phoebe McIlwraith (@northbutsouthhh), Bundjalung and Worimi Saltwater woman on Invasion Day and the growing far-right sentiment in Sydney. Further reading: First Nations Futures | Pay The Rent
Dr Peter Lewis, president of national advocacy association ANTaR, joins to discuss the future of the 26th of January.
Yuin man Keiran Stewart-Assheton (@keiran_stewart_assheton) from the Black Peoples Union dials in to about the parallels between Indigenous struggles and that of Palestinian people.
This episode of Backchat aired Saturday 27th January 2024.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat, we listen to locals and producer Sana Shaikh on the chaos of the Rozelle Interchange’s first two weeks of operation.
Then, hear from coastal geomorphologist Professor Rob Brander AKA Dr. Rip on staying safe in the surf this summer.
This episode of Backchat aired Saturday 9th December 2023.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat, producer Nic Huntington examines the hole in pothole funding. Nic chatted to Natasha Bradshaw, Senior Associate of Transport and Cities Program at the Grattan Institute, about how the increase in holes isn't resulting in an increase in funding.
Next, we take a look at some of the arrests from the ZIM and climate protests in the past week. We chat to Anastasia from Legal Observers NSW about what Legal Observers NSW has been seeing at these protests, and what your rights are when talking to police.
Finaly, with World AIDS Day on December 1st, and the 2023 Nurse of the Year awarded last week, Backchat chats to joint winner John McAllister. With a career spanning over 40 years in HIV and sexual health, we celebrate his contribution to the Sydney community.
This episode of backchat was produced by Nic Huntington, Sana Sheikh, and Rebecca Cushway.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat, producer Sana Sheikh dives into Woollahra Municipal Council's new decision to limit public parking to non-residents to 15 minutes, and provide free all-day parking for residents. This new change encompasses all parking near popular beach spot at Watson's Bay, potentially restricting access to anyone outside this postcode. We’ll be exploring whether this is fair and why some Sydneysiders get to benefit from our natural wonders whilst others can’t. Backchat chatted to Woollahra Municipal Council about the controversial new decision.
Next, if you’re anything like us, you’ve been doing some heavy-duty online shopping this week. Which is why it’s absolutely horrifying to find out that people in NSW alone lost more than $2.5 million to online shopping scams in the last year. We’re diving into the uncharted waters of online shopping scams with RMIT mathematician Dr Arathi Arakala.
Finally, a recent survey conducted by the NSW Department of Education found a major casual teacher shortage, meaning almost 10,000 lessons are happening without adequate educational support in public schools across New South Wales every day. We spoke to Natasha Watt, Acting Senior Vice President from New South Wales Teachers Federation, earlier in the week to discuss what this means for students across the state.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Sheikh, Holly Payne, and Tanita Razaghi.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This week on Backchat, we explore the groundbreaking new project from Monash University's XYX Lab, aimed at shedding light on the experience of women and gender-diverse people in NSW. The project is a crowd mapping project launched in collaboration with CrowdSpot that anonymously collects the 'safe' and 'unsafe' experiences these people have had in public spaces. Producer Bec Cushway chatted to Dr Niki Kalms to tell us more.
Next, big changes to rights for stateless asylum seekers in Australia. Earlier this month the high court made a decision that will impact the lives of stateless refugees indefinitely detained in our detention centres. It was lauded as a major win by refugee advocates and former refugees. Backchat was joined by Ian Rintoul, coordinator from Refugee Action Coalition to find out more.
Finally, Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi joined us to discuss how Australian politicians are responding to the crisis in Gaza, particularly following the Greens walkout during question time this week.
Also a big sad and teary farewell to Backchat's outgoing Executive Producer, Eamonn Snow, who has kept the show running these past few years. He's left a big mark on the Backchat team, and the show wouldn't be where it is today without him.
Aired November 18, 2023. Produced by Bec Cushway, Sana Sheikh, Holly Payne, and (for the last time) Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This episode of Backchat delves into some of the new waste programs across Sydney, and how where you live across the LGAs could make a huge difference to what you can recycle, and how much it is going to cost you. Backchat producer Sana Shaikh explains in this week's wrap.
Next, with more and more young people questioning their reasons for drinking, stress and anxiety are emerging as some of the major players. Sydney University's Inroads program is an online, self-guided program for young adults who drink to reduce or cope with stress, nervousness or anxiety. Backchat chats to Dr Katrina Prior to understand how the Inroads program is helping young people.
Finally, how would you rate the state of Sydney's live music scene? Post-Covid, NSW has lost over half of its live music venues and the scene is changing as a result. The NSW government has just announced a survey of artists and professionals working in the music industry, and Elise Chidiac from the Music Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) sheds some light.
Aired November 11, 2023. This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Tanita Razaghi, Sana Shaikh and Eamonn Snow on Gadigal land.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This episode of Backchat comes to you following a difficult week; both in Australia and around the world. It’s been one week since Australia voted No to constitutional recognition of First Nations people via an Indigenous Voice to Parliament. It’s fair to say this has been a tough period for Indigenous people, with many choosing to take a step back to mourn. Others, however, are driven to continue the conversation as First Nations communities and broader Australia alike try to plot the steps post-referendum. Phoebe McIlwraith is a Bundjalung and Worri-my Saltwater woman based on Gadi/Wann Country. She’s a multi-disciplinary Koori creative keen to keep Indigenous voices front and centre right now and you'll be hearing her thoughts on the next steps for First Nations people and broader austraia alike.
Next, the world is watching on in horror as war intensifies in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory of Gaza. But how much do you know about the roots of this conflict? There has been a lot of context missing both from media reports and political responses to the ongoing situation in Israel and Palestine since this conflict began. So, for the background that you’re not hearing anywhere else, you'll be hearing a report from Backchat producer Eamonn Snow. After that, we'll have an interview with Lydia Shelley from the NSW Council of Civil Liberties on the situation in Gaza and the right to protest here in NSW.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Nic Huntington, Tanita Razaghi, Sana Shaikh and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's an historic day as Australians head to the polls to vote in our first referendum since 1999. Today on Backchat, we'll be covering the vote from all angles. First up, if you’re still unsure on how today works or what is being asked of you, we’ll be going over some of the nitty gritty details of how referendums work and how to make sure your vote counts. Next, we'll be crossing to our reporters Sana and Nic who are on the ground at polling stations in Burwood and Redfern, respectively. They'll be sharing conversations they have had with voters and conveying the mood of the moment. Finally, to unpack the significance of today and what comes next, we’ll be joined later by Phoebe McIlwraith, a Bundjalung and Worimi Saltwater woman based on Gadi/Wann Country. She’s a multi-disciplinary Koori creative with a background in policy, political economy and law at the University of Newcastle.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Sana Shaikh, Nic Huntington, Tanita Razaghi, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 07/10/2023) - This week on Backchat, we're priming you for the 2023 Referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament. Our coverage in this episode aims to cut through a lot of the confusion around this historic vote by platforming First Nations voices.
First up you’re gonna be hearing from Bridget Cama, a Wiradjuri First Nations and Pasifika Fijian woman who is co-chair of the Uluru Youth Dialogue. Bridget has been travelling across the country campaigning for the Yes vote and will be laying out what The Voice would be, and the case for Yes, while responding to the torrent of misinformation floating around.
Next, we'll have report on the case for a progressive ‘no’ vote, and why some First Nations people have felt like they haven’t been heard during this referendum. You'll be hearing from grassroots First Nations activist Jennetta Quinn-Bates, who has been actively campaigning for a no vote, and from Sydney racial equity consultant Alicia Jay, who has been leading online discussions about allyship through the referendum.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 30/09/2023) - On this episode of Backchat, we kick things off with a look at the latest findings from a NSW Police Inquiry into strip searches. Among other things, the report contains some pretty scathing information about how few officers are adequately trained to conduct these invasive searches. Backchat producer Libby Hopper will be with us to unpack it all. Next, how much attention do you pay the many beautiful trees adorning Sydney's streets? They play a crucial role in keeping our city habitable, and with heatwaves set to increase in both frequency and severity, some are facing new threats. Dr Renee Prokopavicius, plant ecophysiologist at Western Sydney University will join us to dive deeper into our urban trees. Finally, this week brought the devastating news that Varroa Mite is here to stay. Authorities have abandoned efforts to rid Australia of the parasite, which devastates our European bee populations. So, what next? To answer this and mroe, you'll be hearinf from Emily Remnant, Lecturer and Academic Fellow from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences at the University of Sydney.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Libby Hopper, Nc Huntington, Sana Shaikh and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 23/09/2023) - First up, we chat with Backchat Producer Libby Hopper about some of the NSW Budget highlights – and what the big winners and losers are for this round.
Next, we delve into public housing and social housing in NSW’s budget – a huge focus in this year’s budget with Rachel Evans from Action for Public Housing and Michelle May, Principal of Michelle May’s Buyer’s Agent.
Victor Steffensen, lead fire practitioner, and co-founder of the Firesticks Alliance joins us to break down why we should look to the past to prevent future catastrophes when it comes to fire prevention strategies.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Libby Hopper, Sana Shaikh, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 16/09/2023) - This week on Backchat, we get moving with a dive into the news the Macquarie Bank will be going cashless at branches from next year. We'll break down what this will mean and who will be impacted. Next, we're peering into a campaign to stop a sewage pump station being built at Parlsey Bay in Vaucluse. Residents say it'll destroy wildlife, while Sydney water says its needed to solve a serious sewage issue. Finally, we return to the Waterloo public housing redevelopment for a special report. Plans to demolish and redevelop the area have dragged on for two decades now with residents the clear losers.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Hollly Payne, Nic Huntington and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 09/09/2023) - We kick off this episode of Backchat with a look at Sydney's worsening housing woes. The Committee for Sydney has just released a new report dealing just how much this crisis is costing - and will continue to cost - our city. Estelle Grech is an urban planner with the Committee For Sydney, and she will be in studio to unpack some of the takeaways from their latest report. Next up, we're joined by Sydney author and PhD researcher, Anna Broinowski for a look into the world of Deepfakes. Are we doomed? Are there positives? We'll answer this and more in a fascinating conversation. Stay tuned for a follow up, too. Finally, we round things out with a special look at the Varroa mite outbreak that continues to devastate bee populations across NSW. Our own Holly Payne has spoken to Honey Bee Council CEO Danny LeFeuvre and Sydney Uni scientist Dr Emily Remnant for the lowdown.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sumaiya Chowdhure, Holly Payne, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 02/09/2023) - On Backchat this week – some big news has entered our political sphere.
First up, how’s your pay check looking? Our federal pollies and public servants just received a serious pay bump - and we’ll be breaking down wage rises (or a lack thereof) for young people in Australia.
Next up, the date for the referendum has finally been announced for October 14. As we inch closer to the date, have we ever stopped to consider how global examples of Indigenous voices look like? Hear from Harry Hobbs, legal academic specialising in constitutional law at UTS, and policy expert Andrew Wear.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by our talented producers Sana Sheikh, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 26/08/2023) - On Backchat this week - we bring you the news of Sydney & beyond.
First up, we run through why Zoom, the platform that turbocharged throughout the pandemic, has found itself in hot water for privacy issues.
Earlier this week, we saw the federal government release its 6th Intergenerational Report on what Australia could look like over the next 40 years. To break it down what this means for us young folks is Justine Landis-Hanley, Canberra Times reporter.
Lastly, we chat to Nick Mcintosh, National Assistant Secretary of the Transport Workers Union & Naeem ul Haq, representative from PakOz on why we need to sound the alarm around the safety of food delivery workers.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by our talented producers Eamonn Snow, Tanita Razaghi and Jostina Basta.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 19/08/2023) - Matildas fever opens this episode of Backchat. How could it not? There’s something about The Matildas that has really struck a chord this year, and we'll be taking a few minutes with our own Holly Payne to unpack some of the history behind the team, the records that they’ve broken over the last few weeks and have a guess as to what the future holds. Next up, we're jumping back into YIMBY/NIMBY land after New research from Western Sydney university has shown the NIMBY approach to housing development has had direct impacts on minority groups across Sydney, especially Western Sydney. Western Sydney urban planning researcher, Dr Awais Piracha will join us to break down his latest research. Finally, Do you feel like buses in Sydney getting later and later? Well you’re not wrong. This week the Bus Industry Taskforce, which is a group the government put together to make recommendations to improve bus services across NSW, released its first report. And it was a damning one. David Babineau - Tram and Bus Division Secretary of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union will join us to unpack this new report and what solutions are being considered.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Nic Huntington, Sana Shaikh, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.
And an even bigger thanks to Matt Le Guay. Matt has been one of the pros behind Backchat’s social media content and today is his last show with us. Thank you Matt!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 12/08/2023) - Heard much about the Fair Pay for Radio Play bill being debated in federal parliament? We'll be kicking off this episode of Backchat with a deep dive into the new proposed bill and what it could mean for aussie artists. Backchat producer Libby Hopper will be in the chair with all you need to know. Next, you’re not imagining it - the days are literally hotter in Western Sydney. The area records about 30% more hot or very hot days each year compared to the East. Later on in the show, we’ll be hearing from meteorologist Milton Speer on just why that’s so.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Libby Hopper, Matt Le Guay and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 05/08/2023) - We're diving into our state's contentious shark netting program to kick off this episode of Backchat; after the New South Wales Government dropped its Shark Meshing, Bather Protection Report for 2023. Backchat producer Libby Hopper is in the chair to explain the report's findings and how government and conservation groups have reacted to the news. Next, pill testing is back on the agenda in NSW after the Unharm organisation launched its ‘Just Check It’ campaign with the Minns Labor government squarely in its sights. Unharm campaigns director, Sam Kidd will join us to unpack their case and the state of play for harm reduction in NSW right now. Finally, with the Women's World Cup well underway, Backchat host Holly Payne has spent the week examining the increasing fears around head knocks and concussions in women's sport. Hear from Neurophysiologist Professor Alan Pearce and neurologist Dr Rowena Mobbs about their research into chronic traumatic encephalopathy in athletes.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Libby Hopper, Holly Payne and Eamonn Snow
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 29/07/2023 - Bushfire season is upon us, and this week on Backchat we'll get started with a look at our preparedness. Outgoing Backchat producer Matt Le Guay will be in the hot seat to unpack how we're tracking and how much Indigenous cultural cool burning practices have been incorporated into our preparation. Next up - cash looks to eb going the way of the Dodo, but do we really understand what a totally cashless society would mean? You'll be hearing from Swinburne Uni’s professor Steve Worthington and Ronald Mizen from the Australian Financial Review as they try to answer some of these questions. Finally - most of us watch or have watched porn. How much thought have you given to the ethics of the porn you consume? Sydney Uni has just released the results from a landmark global study examining the ethics of pornography, and we’ll be diving into that research and the world of ethical porn via a report from Backchat reporter Nic Huntington.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Matt Le Guay, Sana Shaikh, Nic Huntington and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 22/07/2023) - This week on Backchat, we're kicking things off with an explanation of the latest phenomenon borne from social media - Girl Dinner. You may have seen it bumping around your socials feed, but what does this tell us about gender roles in 2023? Our host Tanita Razaghi is leading this explanation with help from producer Libby. Next, we're exploring Bush to Bowl - a social enterprise aimed at creating a healing space & platform through First Nations knowledge, by connecting to country and their traditional foodways - providing experiences near Terry Hills. One of the founders of Bush to Bowl, Clarence Bruinsma, is on the line to unpack his work. Finally, egg freezing has entered the mainstream - taking centre stage on social media as females take to the apps to share their experience. But is this really productive or just adding to pressure women already feel about their bodies and life more broadly? Backchat producer Libby Hopper got chatting with fertility specialist Dr Giselle Crawford and finfluencer, Jessica Leung from the leung way to crack into it.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Tanita Razaghi, Nic Huntington, Libby Hopper Jostina Basta, and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 15/07/23) On Backchat this week, we bring you the stories of Sydney and beyond – and we’re keeping it super local this time!
TW: This show discusses SA and rape.
First up, with many of us noticing our grocery shops getting more expensive by the day, you’ll be hearing from Backchat Producer Sana Sheikh about why this is the case and what this means for young people.
Next up, we’ll be about the open letter that was put forward to the Albanese government from a group called End Rape on Campus. Iggy Boyd and Alev Saracoglou, Women’s Wfficers from the University of Sydney’s Student Representative Council will be breaking down why students are calling time on the university sector’s efforts to improve safety on campus.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by our talented producers Sana Sheikh, Holly Payne, and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 08/07/2023)
On Backchat this week, we bring you a special episode in celebration of NAIDOC Week. Join us as we delve into the rich history and culture of our First Nations peoples, with an line up of 100% Indigenous voices.
First up, we explore something that has now become a common practise in many settings across Australia - an acknowledgement of country. Mundanara Bayles, Director of Blackcard shares how we can transcend the surface level, and foster genuine change through our acknowledgements.
With this year's theme for NAIDOC being 'For Our Elders', we were honoured to be joined by Gumbaynggir educator and Elder, Uncle Michael Jarrett, about his work to safeguard the future of his native tounge.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by our talented producers Jostina Basta, Tanita Razaghi, Eamonn Snow and Matt Le Guay.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 01/07/2023) This week on Backchat, we're kicking things off with a dive into the editorial decisions in Australian newsrooms following the wall-to-wall coverage of the Titan submersible disaster. Our producer Sana Shaikh is in the studio to run through the pitfalls and forgotten stories of our overwhelmingly white newsrooms. Next, RACGP spokesperson on addiction, Dr Hester Wilson is in studio to chat about advances in harm reduction. Opioid dependence therapy drugs have recently made their way onto the Pharmecuitical Benefits Scheme - a move that continues Australia's trend towards effective harm reduction when it comes to drug use. Finally, how many birds do you see around Sydney day-today? We're rounding things out with a chat with Australia's preeminent urban bird expert, Dr Grainne Cleary about what we can do to protect and promote Sydney's birdlife.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne, Jostina Basta, and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 04/02/23) - This week on Backchat we'll be discussing the digitisation of the work place and how it has affected our workplace productivity. Next, we’ll be chatting with Grattan Institute economist, Joey Moloney on the what is causing the current economic struggles of young people in todays society, and how the government should address the issue. Finally, you'll be hearing from Dr Brad Mckay from the Darlinghurst Medical Centre to briefly explain Mpox (formerly known as Monkey Pox) and how to protect yourself from Mpox during the upcoming World Pride Festival.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sumaiya Chowdhure, Jostina Basta, Matt Le Guay and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 28/01/23) - Invasion Day came and went this week and as always, it’s sparked debate around the history of Australia, the future of First Nations people and the deep divisions we collectively face. This week on Backchat, we'll be centring our coverage around First Nations issues.
We kick things off with a look at what the last 12 months has meant for First Nations resistance. Indigenous scholar and popular podcaster Alicia Johnson joins us to unpack it all. Next up, we're joined by Waradjuri man and member of the Uluru Dialogue Leadership, Roy Ah-See, to discuss where we're at with a Voice to Parliament following Invasion Day protests and new data on Indigenous support for constitutional change. Finally, you'll hear a chat with constitutional law expert Professor Anne Twomey on the legal framework surrounding a Voice to Parliament.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Tanita Razaghi, Holly Payne, Matt Le Guay and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 21/01/23) - Backchat is back for 2023, and we're hitting the ground running this week. First up, we're gonna be tackling the prickly issue of parking permits in inner-Sydney and what impact they're having on renters in share houses or on short-term leases. Next, we’ll be chatting with obstetrician and gynaecologist Professor Kirsten Black about why women are finding it difficult to access publicly-funded abortions, even though the procedure is no longer a crime. Finally, pokies are shaping up to be a defining policy issue for the upcoming NSW state election, so you’ll be hearing from independent MP Alex Grenwich for an insight into the politics of pokies in NSW right now.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Jostina Basta, Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne, Timothy Nguyen and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 17/12/22) - It's the final episode of Backchat for 2022, but we haven't let that slow us down. Getting us started this week will be a look at the gender pay gap in Australia as we address some of the misconceptions around the issue. Backchat producer Timothy Nguyen has been exploring this one and will be in studio to share what he's found. Next, Sydney’s prestigious Waverley college was in the news last week for all the wrong reasons as allegations of brutal bullying and ‘hazing’ rituals directed at year 7 students were made public. Dr Karyn Healy will be coming on to unpack the culture of bullying in Australia, the rite of passage in schools and the mental impact of this behaviour on young boys. Finally, we're wrapping up 2022 proceedings with a special interview with NSW Labor leader Chris Minns.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Timothy Nguyen, Sumaiya Chowdhure, Jostina Basta and Matt Le Guay.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 10/12/22) - This week on Backchat, we're kicking things off with a look at the planned changes to Indonesia's legal code. You've likely heard of the looming 'bonk ban', but there's plenty more changes worthy of your attention, too. Backchat producer Eamonn Snow will be in studio to unpack what's going on with our northern neighbour. After that, we'll be chatting education in NSW; after plans were announced to overhaul school syllabuses in an attempt to adress steadily declining literacy skills. NSW education advisor Peter Knapp will be on to unpack what has gone wrong and our hope of turning things around. Finally, we’re gonna be taking a closer look at something that - whether you’ll admit it or not - you’ve definitely done at least once: Vaping. You’ll be hearing from Emily Jenkinson from the Cancer Council about where we’re at with vapes and the impact they’re having.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 03/12/22) -
This week on Backchat, we get started with an update on the Royal Sydney Golf Club's controversial redevelopment, after the golf club overcame a final legal hurdle last week. Greens councillor with Woollahra Council, Nicola Grieve will join Tanita and Holly to unpack where things are at. Next, we're joined by Chloe Williamson from the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance to chat sexual assault and harrassment in the music industry. This comes after the landmark 'Raising Their Voices' report released damning findings into the safety of people woring within the Australian music industry. Finally, we'll have a special report from Backchat reporter Lill Scott into the state of gambling in Australia and the harm gambling addicitons are inflicting on young people.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Sumaiya Chowdhure, Lill Scott and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 26/11/22) - We're bringing you a very special episode of Backchat this week, as our host Charles Rushforth bids the program adieu after more than two years. We'll have a bunch of soppy farewelling sprinkled - of course - amongst the news that matters to you. We'll kick things off with a look at the NSW Government's plans to turn their remaining single-sex schools to co-ed. Backchat producer Timothy Nguyen will be in the hot seat to run us through that one. Next, we're gonna be putting buy-now-pay-later services under the spotlight as a flurry of chrustmas shopping gets underway. Kirsty Robson from the Consumer Law Action Centre will join Charles and Tanita to explain the risks and harm associated with services like Afterpay and Zip Pay. Finally, we're dedicating the final segment to our Charlie, with both live and pre recorded farewells from Backchat members past and present.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Timothy Nguyen, Sana Shaikh, Matt Le Guay and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 19/11/22) - This week, we’ll be kicking off the show by chatting with producer Sana Shaikh about why NSW laws have been passed this week to stop taxi drivers from negotiating the fare instead of using the meter.
We kick off our state election coverage this week as we speak to NSW Labor’s shadow minister for the environment, Penny Sharpe. Backchat looks at the koala wars, natural disasters and what the opposition has in store for the environment if they win.
Next, we’ll be chatting to Sophie Li, a researcher for the ‘While We Wait’ project from the Black Dog Institute about the extended wait lists and wait times for young people to access mental health services, and just how risky these wait times can be.
This episode was produced by Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne and Jostina Basta. A huge thank you to our guests for jumping on the show.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 12/11/22) - This week's episode of Backchat kicks off with some much needed analysis of the collapse of RedCycle - the soft plastic recycling scheme you would have seen at Coles and Woolies. Backchat producer Sana Shaikh is in studio to run us through what happened and where we go from here when it comes to plastic and recycling in Australia. Next, we're chatting trees after the NSW Government reached its goal of planting one million trees across greater Sydney in 2022. Associate Professor Sebastian Pfautsch will be running us through that plan, its benefits, and what work we still need to do to. Finally, we're exploring the fderal government's planned changes to gambling advertisements with gambling researcher with CQU, Alex Russell.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 29/10/22) - This week on Backchat, we kick things off with a look at the slimy world of sports sponsorship in Australia, following the Australian Netball team’s sensational rejection of a lucrative sponsorship deal with Gina Reinhart’s Hancock Prospecting. Next, we're going behind the scenes into the push to revive Chinatown after several years of neglect. Andrea Plawutsky from Haymarket HQ will be on to run us through the plan to breathe new life into the area. Finally, Labor delivered its first budget in over a decade earlier in the week - so what should young people make of it? We’re joined by independent economist and councilor for the Climate Council, Nicki Hutley to break down some key areas of the budget and what it’ll mean for young people moving forward.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 05/11/22) - On Backchat this week, we get moving with a conversation around the increasing commercialisation of Sydney's green spaces and public areas. This comes after a resident living near Tumbalong Park in Sydney CBD calculated that the park had been unusable to the public for over 150 days this year. Next, we're discussing the cascading failures that contributed to the tragic death of Noongar-Yamatji schoolboy Cassius Turvey, and the continued struggle facing Indigenous Australians. Frontier War Stories podcast creator and host Boe Spearim joins us for that conversation.
This Episode of Backchat was produced by Tanita Razaghi and Eamonn Snow
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 22/10/22) - This week on Backchat, producer Holly is in to guide us through the sensational resignation of state Labor MP Tania Mihailuk and what it means for the party as a state election looms for 2023. Next, as new laws limiting protest are being challenged in the supreme court, we're talking the slow slip of civil liberties in New South Wales with Josh Pallas from the NSW Council for Civil Liberties. Finally, a joint investigation by the ABC and Nine newspapers this week alleged doctors were rorting our public health system to the tune of 8 billion dollars - but is this the full story? You'll be hearing from Mariam Tokhi, a GP with Refugee Health in Melbourne, for insight into the bigger picture when it comes to our Medicare woes.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Sana Shaikh, Timothy Nguyen, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(aired 15/10/22) - This week on Backchat, we kick off with a look at Sydney’s cycle-friendliness after NSW police descended on the CBD earlier in the week for a crackdown on non-compliant cyclists. Next, we dive into what the prickly stage three tax cuts could mean for young people with Dr Greg Jericho from The Australia Institute and the Guardian news. Finally, have you noticed some of your favourite products shrinking while prices go the other way? Backchat will be tackling the most cursed aspect of our cost of living crisis - shrinkflation.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Charles Rushforth, Tanita Razaghi and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aired 08/10/22 - This week on Backchat, Backchat producer Sana Shaikh jumps on for a dive into the recently fast-tracked state government plan to raise the wall of the Warragamba Dam by 14 metres. We'll have all you need to know about this complex and controversial response to incresed floding events in Sydney. Next, we're joined by First national Real Estate CEO, Ray Ellis to unpack mould issues in rental properties and the tension between tenants and their real estate when it comes to rectifying issues like this. Finally, you'll hear a chat with Leo Patterson-Ross from the NSW tenants union about the worsening state of Sydney's rental market.
This episode of Backchat was prodcued by Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aired 01/10/22 - This week on Backchat, you'll be first hearing about the halting of a promised arts hub in Marrickville as Sydney creatives complain of 'trojan horse' gentrification. We'll have exclusive commentary from Tim Levinson - aka Urthboy - about moves to suspend construction of the hub and the situation facing the arts community in inner Sydney. Next, we'll have a chat with NSW Senator for the Greens, David Shoebridge, about his party's recently announced policy to legalise marijuana nationwide. Finally, new research out of Western Sydney Uni suggests that over half of Western Sydney's agricultural land has been sold to development over the last decade. We'll be chatting to Awais Piracha, one of the authors of this research, about what this could mean for our food security now and into the future.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Timothy Nguyen, Eddy Diamond and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aired 24/09/22 - This week on Backchat, we get started with a look at the recently released findings of an enquiry into the drug ice, which recommended that some quantities of drugs be decriminalised in NSW. Next, we chat to Saul Deane from Total Environment Centre about a state government plan to open up huge chunks of Western Sydney - including critical Koala habitat - to new development. Backchat producer Alice Leggett caps things off with a chat to Adam Jones from the NSW State Emergency Service about the preparations underway for a looming third La Niña.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Alice Leggett, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aired 17/09/22 - This week, Backchat kicks off with a dive into a damning report that found Star Casino was unfit to hold a casino license in NSW. Next, int he wake of the shocking leaked group chat from Knox Grammar, we hear from a former student from an elite private boys school about the culture in those environments. Finally, we check in with Amanda Copp from National Radio News about what the Queen's death is going to mean for the productivity of our federal parliament as the sitting year draws to a close.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Sumaiya Chowdhure and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aired 10/09/22 - We kick off Backchat this week with a much needed explanation of the industrial dispute that has gripped the Sydney rail network recently. Next, we explore the controversial question of ethical shoplifting with QLD Greens councillor Jonathan Sriranganathan. Finally, we’ll be chatting with 2021 Queenslander of the year, Dr Dinesh Palipana about why there are very few doctors with disability, and what’s rotten in the culture of medicine.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aired 03/09/22 - Backchat kicks off this week with a look at the gender pay gap in 2022 - why you should care and how it's set to impact women moving forward. Next, you'll be hearing directly from one NSW student who received an Order of Australia medal at just seventeen years old. Laura Eastlake will be on the line to tell us about her achievement and her plans for the future. Finally, Backchat producer Sumaiya Chowdhure will be in studio to give you the lowdown on quiet quitting and also share the perspective of a quiet-quitter.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Eddy Diamond, Sumaiya Chowdhure and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aired 27/08/22 - This week, Backchat kicks off with a chat to producer Holly about the Royal Sydney Golf Club's controversial plans to expand, and the two Sydney councils going to court to stop it. Next, you'll hear from Rushani Epa, Founder and Editor-In-Chief of Colournary food magazine, about the state of hospo venues in Australia as many continue to close their doors. Finally, you'll be hearing a chat with Nick McIntosh from the Transport Workers Union on Qantas' treatment of workers as their reputation continues to dive.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Sana Shaikh, Timothy Ngyuen and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aired 13/08/22 - On Backchat this week, you'll firstly be hearing about plans to demolish and redevelop two public housing sites in Sydney and what will happen to the residents displaced by the development. Next, we'll have all you need to know about the latest virus threatening our shores - Monkeypox. Dr Brad Mackay will be on to help separate fact from fiction. FInally, you’ll be hearing a chat with the National Tertiary Education Union’s NSW secretary Damien Cahill about why staff at the University of Sydney will be striking for better working conditions.
This episode of Baclchat was produced by Sumaiya Chowdhure, Holly Payne, Jostina Basta, Vanessa Lim and Eamonn Snow
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aired 06/08/22 - This week, Backchat's Syndey wrap explores disturbing new figures highlighting the extent of pokie losses in NSW, with some Sydney's lowest income suburbs ranking highest for pokie takings. Next, we have a special interview with Natascha Haupt and Luisa Giles-Baker from the National Centre for Indigenous Excellence after staff and visitors to the centre received the shock news that it would be closing. Finally, you'll be hearing a chat with Chair of Homelessness Australia, Jenny Smith about youth homelessness and how we can better address it.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Timothy Nguyen, Sana Shake, Jostina Basta and Emma Pham.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 30/07/22) The latest on Backchat!
First up, we sit down with Backchat producer Sana Shaikh to discuss the topic of kitty curfews, proposed for NSW by the Wagga Wagga council to protect their native wildlife.
Next, we're joined by data journalist from The Guardian, Josh Nicholas, to unpack the implications and very valid concerns around period tracking apps sharing / selling user data in light of the overturning of Roe v Wade.
To wrap up, we're taking a look at how the first week of parliament with a new goverment shaped up to be with political reporter, Amanda Copp.
Huge thanks to our wonderful guests for coming on the show and to our legend co-hosts, Charles Rushforth and Tanita Razaghi. Massive cheers to our producers, Sana Shaikh, Tanita Razaghi, Eamonn Snow, Jostina Basta and Vanessa Lim.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 23/07/22) This week on Backchat, we kick things off by diving into the insane spike in already high rental prices across Sydney following the release of new data from the Domain Rent Report. Next, we're joined by Amber Rules - Director and Founder of mental health service, Rough Patch - to discuss the impact climate change is having on young people's mental health and what you can do to beat the climate blues. Finally, you'll be hearing an interview with Adjunct Professor Karen Price about the GP issues making things incredibly tough for doctors and patients alike.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 16/07/22) This week on Backchat, we kick off the show digging into why trains and buses in NSW might nevber be as busy as they were pre-pandemic. With statistics showing sigificant drops in the usage of trains, buses and trams - we'll be chatting about what this means in the NSW Transport sector.
Next, with the effects of climate change being felt like never before in Australia with floods, bushfires and hottest summers on record - Backchat sits down with Usha Makkena from the Australian Youth Climate Coalition to hear stories of young people in Australia being displaced due to climate change.
Backchat producer Jostina Basta lastly spoke to Ajith Rajapaksa, representative for Voice for Democracy in Sri Lanka & co-organiser for the Aus-Lanka People's Solidarity protests in Australia to break down what led to the recent mass protests & protestors storming into the President's residence.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
(Aired 09/07/22) It's NAIDOC week 2022 and on Backchat this week, we'll be covering stories that highlight the strength of First Nations people, community and culture.
First up, we're unpacking the uptick in First Nations populations recorded in the 2021 census data with Indigenous researchers Julie Andrews and Francis Markham. Next, CEO of First Nations Media Dennis stokes joins Charles and Tanita in studio to chat about the organisation's goals in the media industry for First Nations people. Finally, we'll have a special interview with Coral Lever and Latoya from First Nations Response - a grass roots organisation dedicated to giving First Nation’s people access to basic necessities like food and medical, as well as reliable info about covid-19.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Timothy Nguyen, Jostina Basta, Emma Pham and Eamonn Snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Backchat has the latest!
It's been one year since Sydney's harshest lockdowns began. Your favourite hosts and Exec Producer, Eamonn Snow, come together to collectively reflect on the experience.
Next, in light of the overturning of Roe v Wade, Backchat is joined by Daney Faddoul to break down what a national Charter of Rights would mean in Australia with regards to protecting our access to abortion amongst other fundamental human rights. Daney is Campaign manager at the Human Rights Law Centre.
Last up, Eamonn chats with Gloria Larman, CEO of the not-for-profit Women's Justice Network about the lack of funding for incarcerated women in this year's NSW Budget.
Massive thanks to our guests, Daney Faddoul and Gloria Larman, for coming on the show. And as always, a massive cheers to our venerable producers Sana Sheikh, Tanita Razaghi, Jostina Basta, Emma Pham and Eamonn Snow.
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Backchat is unpacking the biggest news of the week!
First up, we’re joined by Don Dixon, Ramp Worker for Qantas at Sydney Domestic Airport, to discuss how Qantas’ structural changes over the past 2.5 years have resulted in long term consequences for the company, affecting their workers and the Australian public alike.
Who are the winners and losers of this year’s state budget? We're joined by Zee Feed Founder and editor Crystal Andrews to help us make sense of it all, from stamp duty for first home buyers to introducing a pre-kindy year to schools.
Following the announcement that Australia will be accepting more refugees this year, we lastly explore the stories of Marwa Mooen and Athmar Habeb, and examine the crucial role non-government and community organisations play in equipping refugees with the tools to settle into Australia.
Big cheers to our lovely guests for joining us on the show, and our stellar co-hosts Tanita Razaghi and Charles Rushforth. This episode was produced by Timothy Nguyen, Holly Payne, Lill Scott, Vanessa Lim, Jostina Basta, Emma Pham and Eamonn Snow.
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This week on Backchat we talk about the the state government investing $60 million to deliver a waterfront pathway for pedestrians and cyclists with Backchat Producer Eamonn Snow. After we delve into economic updates with economist Peter Martin. Lastly, Backchat Producer Sana Shaikh talks about big retail stores such as Bunnings, Kmart and Good Guys using facial technology and what that means for you. This episode of Backchat was brought to you by Sana Shaikh, Vanessa Lim, Eamonn Snow and Lara Sonnenschein.
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This week on Backchat we'll be starting at Castle Hill High School, where asbestos has been lurking in the roof of a classroom for years without action. Backchat producer Sana Shaikh will be in the studio to give you the rundown on that one. Next, we'll be joined by Joe Hathaway-Wilson, News Editor for UTS student publication, Vertigo, after it was revealed they'd be losing significant funding. Finally, Backchat producers Lill Scott and Eddy Diamond will be exploring whether our new PM, Anthony Albanese, is as real about supporting public housing as he says.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by Sana Shaikh, Eddy Diamond, Lill Scott, Emma Pham, Vanessa Lim and Eamonn Snow.
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This week we’ve got a great mix of news as we inch away from the election madness!
Backchat producer Holly Payne jumps onto our Sydney wrap to discuss NSW moving its way out of single-use plastic bags.
Next, we dig into the big election shock last week, that Peter Dutton was chosen as the leader of the Liberal Party. Backchat will be breaking down what this means for politics in Australia with Ben Raue from the Tally Room.
Lastly, Backchat producer Jostina Basta chats to founder and director of Miss Sahara beauty pageant to find out how their recent gala goes beyond showcasing beauty, and how African women and communities can be better represented in the Australian beauty and fashion scene.
As always, big thanks to our guests for joining us on the show, and our stellar co-hosts, Tanita Razaghi and Charles Rushforth. And massive cheers to our producers Holly Payne, Sana Shaikh Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.
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Election season may be over, but the Backchat team are still here to bring you the news that matters to you!
This week, we delve into Australia's flu epidemic and how state governments are responding to counter it. We're also joined by the Greens Senator Lidia Thorpe to talk about what the future might look like when it comes to Indigenous representation in Australia as Labor, The Greens and First nations groups lay out their intentions for the next term of parliament. Lastly, we've got Dr Rachel Burgin from the NSW government's new sexual consent campaign on board to discuss landmark affirmative consent laws set to take effect in NSW from next week.
As always, big thanks to our guests for joining us on the show, and our stellar co-hosts, Tanita Razaghi and Charles Rushforth. A massive cheers also to our producers, Timothy Nguyen, Eddy Diamond, Vanessa Lim, Jostina Basta, Emma Pham and Eamonn Snow.
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It’s election day 2022! In a special episode of Backchat, the team firstly explore the Coalition’s new first home buyer’s scheme, which would allow people to partially fund a deposit for their first home by dipping into their superannuation. Next, we’re talking about the fair work commission’s landmark decision to allow millions of Aussies up to 10 days paid domestic violence leave. ASU State Branch Secretary Natalie Lang joins us for that one. Finally, we’ll be crossing to backchat reporters on the ground in some of Sydney’s most marginal and crucial electorates as the first votes are cast for the 2022 federal election.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Eddy Diamond, Lara Sonnenschein, Sana Shaikh, Jostina Basta, Emma Pham, Vanessa Lim and Eamonn Snow.
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One week out until the federal election, Backchat is bringing to you the latest!
First up, we explore what happened to the congestion tax which was proposed for Sydney, then scrapped as the government looks to address transport issues.
Next, we speak with The Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi about their policies for the federal election on wiping student debt, higher education and housing.
Lastly, student and School Strike 4 Climate protest organiser, Bailey Linton-Simpkins, joins us to speak about students’ calls for greater climate action, and the key messages they want to send to the government ahead of elections.
A massive thanks to our guests for joining us on the show, and our amazing hosts, Tanita Razaghi and Sana Shaikh. This episode was brought to you by Eamonn Snow, Sana Shaikh, Jostina Basta, and Vanessa Lim.
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This week on Backchat we talk about the teal independents, who they are and what they stand for. After we chat with Independent candidate for North Sydney Kylea Tink. Lastly, we discuss our own NSW Abortion Laws ahead of the US soon overturning Roe V Wade, a historic abortion rights bill. This episode of Backchat is brought to you by, Eamonn Snow, Holly Payne, Eddy Diamond and Vanessa Lim.
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This week, presenters Chantelle Al-Khouri and Sana Shaikh speak to Blue Mountains MP Trisha Doyle about how a lack of rental properties might be contributing to homelessness in the area. After, we catch up with Backchat producer Eamonn Snow about his Young Walkley Award nominated story about pollution in the Kincumber reason. And lastly, Backchat producer Charles Rushforth joins Chantelle and Sana to discuss the full frontal penis shown on the ABC that drove conservatives mad.
This show was brought to you by Millie Roberts, Nicole Iliagoueva, Sana Shaikh and Vanessa Lim. Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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This week, presenters Chantelle Al-Khouri and Charles Rushforth speak to model Lynn Mathuthu about the importance of diversity and representation at Australian Fashion Week. Followed by Backchat producer Niki Iliagoueva chatting to Co-CEO of the Executive Council of Australian Jewry, Alex Ryvchin, about the rise in antisemitism in the international and Australian Jewish community. And lastly, Backchat producer Jostina Basta joins Charles and Chantelle to discuss tennis player Naomi Osaka pulling out of the French Open, and why its caused shock waves in the sporting world.
This show was brought to you by Millie Roberts, Nicole Iliagoueva, Sana Shaikh and Vanessa Lim. Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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For National Reconciliation Week, Backchat firstly speaks to NITV journalist Jennetta Quinn Bates who has been closely following the story of Michael Peachey, a Gamilaroi man from Gunnedah who died after a police altercation. After, we dive into the race to return Indigenous artefacts. Eddy Diamond chatted to Dharawal man Ray Ingrey from the Gujaga foundation into their efforts in La Perouse. Finally. we speak to Professor Larissa Behrendt about one of the first Indigenous university residential housing being built at UTS in Ultimo.
This show was brought to you by Millie Roberts, Nicole Iliagoueva, Sana Shaikh and Vanessa Lim. Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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On Backchat this week, we look firstly at the fresh round of cuts for Universities in this year's federal budget and what impact this will have on the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) at our unis. After that, Backchat producer Charles Rushforth shares his latest investigation into staffing isues impacting nurses in the state's public hospitals. Finally, our EP Millie Roberts joins Chantelle and Eamonn to discuss the good and bad sides of celebrity activism.
This show was brought to you by Millie Roberts, Nicole Iliagoueva, Sana Shaikh and Vanessa Lim. Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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This week on Backchat, C squared [ Chantelle and Charles ] , take over your airwaves with the latest news and current affairs as well as some quirks stuff you wanna hear.
Chantelle Al-Khouri, explores the rise of abuse towards journalist and the Government roles in this issue.
Next, an electrifying subject! Robots are slowly taking over tiny roles in retail and the grocery stores! COUGH COUGH HAWKIE FROM WOOLIES. Dr Kathryn Kasmarik joins us for a mini deep dive into the mechanics of AI retail futures.
Lastly, we listen to the voices of the Australian Indian Community and how to second wave back home has impacted them. We then jump into a mini roundtable with Backchat Producer, Rebekah Manibog, about the travel ban and its impact.
This show was brought to you by, Eamonn Snow, Rebekah Manibog, Millie Roberts, Charles Rushforth, Chantelle Al-Khouri, Sana Shaikh, Nicole Illangoneva. Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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This week on Backchat we discuss how Olympians are currently getting prioritised to get the COVID-19 vax and some individuals in Canberra have had early access to the Pfizer vaccine despite not being eligible. Backchat producer, Eamonn Snow, takes us to the Central Coast on a recent ocean protest over Pep-11 and we're chatting to pro-surfer Lucy Small who called out organisers of a Sydney surfing competition for unequal recognition.
This episode was produced by Millie Roberts, Eamonn Snow, Charles Rushforth and Jostina Basta. Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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On this week's Backchat, we talking about political correctness in Sydney's comedy scene and that fake viral fiary bread petition you may have seen around. Backchat producer, Rebekah Manibog, catches up with the young Australians who are working together to create change and awareness in their home country of Myanmar.
This episode was produced by Millie Roberts, Vanessa Lim, Niki Illiagoueva and Rebekah Manibog. Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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This week on Backchat, we question whether the national COVID-19 vaccine rollout is accomodating homeless people. Then Chantelle and Charles chat with Sydney filmmaker Amira about the suburb of Miller, and how more areas can better support young people. Finally, we crack into the FriendlyJordies vs Triple J Hack video and discuss the news young people want to hear.
This episode was brought to you by Millie Roberts, Rebekah Manibog, Sana Shaikh and Tanita Razaghi. Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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This week on Backchat, we investigate a polluted waterway in the NSW Central Coast and chat with a Pakistani-born lawyer about growing up with autism. Then cohosts Eamonn Snow and Niki Iliagouyeva are joined by producer Rebekah Manibog to grapple with Prince Phillip's death, and whether it's okay to poke fun in light of sad announcements.
This episode was brought to you by Eamonn Snow, Millie Roberts, Rebekah Manibog and Niki Iliagouyeva. Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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This week on Backchat, we investigate the threat to social housing in Waterloo as it undergoes one of the largest redevelopments in Sydney and discuss death of Mhelody Bruno - a Filipina trans woman who was failed by NSW's justice system. Then presenters Millie Roberts and Chantelle Al-Khouri chat about free disposable menstrual products and share some personal stories.
This episode was brought to you by Rebekah Manibog, Tanita Razaghi and Millie Roberts.
Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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This week on Backchat, we speak to family member of a Christchurch terror massacre about the continued effects of the event, two years on. Then, we speak to Western Sydney student Ishmamul Haque about how international students are faring going into the new semester. Finally, Backchat producer Rebekah Manibog recounts the March 4 Justice rally against sexual assault and violence.
This episode was brought to you by Charles Rushforth, Jostina Basta, Millie Roberts and Rebekah Manibog.
Edited by Lachlan Stevens.
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This week on Backchat, we discuss the infamous Oprah interview with Harry and Meghan with 9Honey's UK Correspondent Karishma Sarkari. We also discuss the allegations of racism and the backlash that has followed. Our Producer Sana Shaikh then brings us a story on how job service providers can take advantage of vulnerable people on JobSeeker. Kristin O'Connell from the Australian Unemployed Workers' Union joins us to unpack the topic further. This episode was brought to you by Millie Roberts, Niki Iliagoueva, Sana Shaikh, Shami Sivasubramanian, and digitally produced by Vanessa Lim and Jostina Basta.
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This week on Backchat, producer Tanita Razaghi sat down with Dr Yumiko Kadota to discuss her new memoir 'Emotional Female' in time for International Women's Day. Next, queer activist Lungol Wekina spoke to us about Mardi Gras queerbaiting and corporatisation. Finally, sex culture educator Gala Vanting discussed concerns around the contentious Online Safety Bill and what it means for sex workers.
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On this episode of Backchat, we’ll be talking about racism towards Asian Australians during Lunar New Year with Chinese Cumberland City Councillor Kun Huang. Then, we discuss Myanmar’s military coup and how it affects Burmese Australians with a member of Myanmar Students Association Australia, Taryar Myint Mo. Finally, we talk all things there is to love about “eshay” culture and how they’re represented in the media with Backchat producer, Tanita Razaghi.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by our producers Charles Rushforth, Millie Roberts and Vanessa Lim.
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This week, Chantelle Al-Khouri speaks to Wiradjuri woman and founder of Blak Business, Olivia Williams, about the boycott movement against Penrith burger joint, Downtown Brooklyn. Producer Rebekah Manibog speaks to winner of Acclaim All Star Award's Rookie of the Year, Barkaa, about the changing face of Australian of hip hop. And arachnologist Dr. Lizzy Lowe joins us live to explain why huntsman spiders numbers are on the rise. This episode was produced by Millie Roberts, Rebekah Manibog, Adele Luamanavae and Vanessa Lim.
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On this episode of Backchat, we’re recapping the 2020 Invasion Day Rally with seventeen year old activist and Gumbayngirr and Darug woman, Shanaya Donovan. We’ll also be discussing animal hibernation during the bushfires with research fellow at University of New England and zoologist, Dr Chris Wacker.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Rebekah Manibog, Tanita Razaghi, Millie Roberts and Charles Rushforth.
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On this special Invasion Day edition of Backchat, we’re exploring a plan for the Aboriginal flag to be flown at half-mast on January 26 with Djabwurrung Gunnai Gunditjmara woman and Greens senator, Lidia Thorpe. We’ll also be discussing the complex attitudes new migrants hold towards January 26 with Catherine Scarth from AMES Australia. Finally, we’ll be running through a few things you can do to support First Nations communities ahead of January 26.
This Episode of Backchat was produced by Charles Rushforth, Millie Roberts, Tanita Razaghi and Vanessa Lim.
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This week on Backchat, Shami Sivasubramanian and Chantelle Al-Khouri explore the trans women ban in the McIver Baths and the toxic side of Australian cricket.
Janet Anderson, the founder of the #LETTHEMSWIM campaign, jumps onto backchat to talk about the ban of trans women at the McIver baths and how we can be allies to help our trans community feel more accepted.
Daniel Beswick, sports statistician, also join in on the conversation about prejudice in Australia in terms of racism in the good ol' Cricket after the complaints made against the Indian Team of the Aussie crowd - causing some spectators to be ejected out of the game.
Listen into Backchat every Saturday, Live, on FBi Radio 94.5FM! 9:30AM-10AM AEST.
This show was brought to you by Millie Roberts, Shami Sivasubramanian, Chantelle Al-Khouri, Niki Iliagoueva, Tanita Razaghi, Vanessa Lim & Rebekah Manibog.
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This week on Backchat we're talking about Australia Billionaires and how some have managed to thrive during the pandemic, with John Stensholt from The Australian. After, Digital Producer Vanessa Lim talks to us about the dangers of Omegle and how it's become a Tiktok trend for young people to go onto the website.
This episode of Backchat was produced by Chantelle Alkhouri, Vanessa Lim and Eamonn Snow.
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Chantelle Al-Khouri and Millie Roberts host the first EP of 2021 - starting the new year off with a Backchat summer banga!
This episode includes; Sana Shk speaks to refugee turned rapper, MC AK about his lyricism.
Chantelle and Millz also debate about hot cross buns and their contribution to food waste in Australia.
Learn how to be a better ally in 2021 with Nina Funell, Markus Mariano and Issy Phillips.
And many more hot-topics! PLUS ANOTHER NEWSICLE ORIGINAL BY NICK HARIOTT.
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Millie Roberts and Chantelle Al-khouri explores the great outdoors of Australia in the final summer banga of 2020-21!
From extreme selfies to Western Sydney heatwaves and Sharks, Backchat covers all you want to know about the great Aussie Backyard.
This episode also touches upon potential punishments for internet trolls, as well as how to be a good ONLINE citizen and Refugees who were brought to Hotels all across Australia under Medevac Laws.
This episode is brought to you by Chantelle Al-Khouri, Millie Roberts, Eamonn Snow, Rebekah Manibog, Niki Iliagoueva & Sana Shaikh.
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This week on Backchat we discuss the new strain of Coronavirus and how it will affect Australia with Associate Professor from the Kirby Institute, Stuart Turville. After, Backchat producer Charles Rushforth investigates how the transnational drug market has been impacted by border closures around the world. Finally, we end on Hilaria Baldwin's made-up Spanish accent, and how common her behaviour is with other cultures as well. You'll hear from founder of We Are The Mainstream Priyanka Bromhead to break this down.
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On the last episode of the year, Chantelle Al-Khouri and Vanessa Lim reflect on Christmas and upcoming New Years celebrations. First up, they chat with Danni Petkovic about how the police stopped Sydney Street Kitchen from delivering meals to the homeless on Boxing Day. Then, Chantelle sat down with journalist Jan Fran about having to isolate over Christmas after ending up in the same venue as a positive case recently.
After, ABC journalist Alison Xiao goes over what New Years will look like given the Northern Beaches cluster, before Macquarie Uni lecturer on terrorism studies Lise Waldek explains the increase in far-right extremism here in NSW.
After the break, Backchat's producers recount the major news stories of the week. Then, we hear from Jasmine Phillips from AllOut - an LGBT+ youth community group in Blacktown that faces defunding next year.
Towards the end of the show, Backchat Producer Rebekah Manibog speaks with the Manilla reporter at the Washington Post about police brutality in the Philippines, before finally, we speak with former sex worker Billie Blu about Instagram's latest community guidelines and how it affects the sex work industry.
Stick around at the end to hear Sydney musician Nick Harriott's original number "The Northern Beaches" - a surfy track reminiscing on the latest Covid cluster.
This special summer episode of Backchat was brought to you by Eamonn Snow, Chantelle Al-Khouri, Millie Roberts, Rebekah Manibog, Tanita Razaghi and Vanessa Lim
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This week on Backchat we discuss the double standard and racism within media reporting, especially throughout COVID-19, with Get Up's senior campaigner Tessa Pang. Love guru and positive communication expert Sue Langley gives us some hot tips on how navigate online dating. Finally, the Backchat team runs you through their TV picks of 2020.
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This week Backchat explores all things worker exploitation in Australia. First up, we have Edward Cavanaugh from the McKell Institute discussing his new report into worker exploitation at NSW fruit farms. Next, producer Sana Shaikh chats with Employment Lawyer Grace Cummings about proposed changes to laws for casual workers. After that, we speak with *Jasmine, a casual worker looking to share her lived experiences.
This episode was produced by Nicole Iliagoueva, Sana Saihk, Rebekah Manibog and Eamonn Snow.
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This week Backchat dives into the world of drugs and drug policy. First up we have a package from reporter Chantelle Al Khouri exploring proposed changes to the NSW drug penalty system and their potential impact. Next, NSW Greens MP David Shoebridge joins us to unpack these proposed changes. After that, the head of Harm Reduction Australia, Gino Vambucca, jumps on air to talk about what we’re at with pill testing in Australia.
This episode was produced by Niki Iliagoueva, Millie Roberts, Charles Rushforth, Rebekah Manibog, and Eamonn Snow.
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This week we talk to Disability Activist Robin Eames about Disability Visibility 2020. After, Backchat Digital Producers Rebekah Manibog and Vanessa Lim delve into the world of Baby Yoda and momalorians.
This week's episode was produced by Niki Iliagoueva, Millie Roberts, Vanessa Lim, and Rebekah Manibog.
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In this week's episode, the Backchat team chat to the Director of Advocacy and Campaigns from the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, Jana Favero, to discuss the sudden visa changes and what it means for vunerable refugees. After that, we have a 'Rona Roundtable with Nine News producer, Andrew Rickert, to unpack what it means to be living with Miss 'Rona and unpack the year of COVID-19.
This episode was brought to you by Millie Roberts, Tanita Razaghi, Eamonn Snow, Rebekah Manibog, Chantelle Al-khouri and Vanessa Lim.
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In this episode of Backchat we chat with CEO of Women's Health NSW, Hayley Foster, about this week's domestic abuse reforms in NSW, how they impact survivors and future changes that her organisation is involved in. We're also joined by Founder and CEO of Oxford Art Factory, Mark Gerber, to discuss a survey by MusicNSW which found that 85% of NSW music venues predict their own shutdown in the next year, and what it'll mean for your fave local artists. Backchat is brought to you by our producers Millie Roberts, Nicole Iliagoueva, Sana Shake and Vanessa Lim.
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This episode, in a NAIDOC week special, Backchat explores a range of inspiring First Nations stories. We chat with Wiradjuri Brotherboy Hayden Moon about long-standing gender diversity in First Nations communities, and how colonisation has affected gender binaries. Backchat Digital Producer Rebekah Manibog also sat down with Ngen'gi Wumirri artist and hunter Kieren Karritpul to explore how his award wining fashion designs have served as an important vehicle for Indigenous storytelling. Our final guest, Gomeroi woman Rachael McPhail, joins us to discuss her campaign to have First Nations place names included in all Australian postal addresses.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by Rebekah Manibog, Vanessa Lim, Millie Roberts, Tanita Razaghi and Eamonn Snow.
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This week on Backchat we're looking at the history and future of the Drag King community. During the lockdown in Sydney this year, drag king shows continued via live stream despite the undesirable circumstances. Backchat talks to performer Gabriel King about the revival of Drag King shows.
If you’ve been to the pub in NSW recently, you’ve probably handed over your email address and phone number in some way or another. From physical pen and paper sign-in sheets to dubious QR codes leading to shoddy Mailchimp forms, the way you leave your personal information is likely to be different for every business you visit. Backchat talks to Sacha Molitorisz about data breaches in Covid-19 tracing.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by Rebekah Manibog, Millie Roberts, Vanessa Lim, Charles Rushforth, and Sana Shaikh.
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This week on Backchat we speak with President of Next Generation Naija Judy Okan about the #EndSARS movement in Nigeria and Australia. After, Niki Iliagoueva chats with Chief Exec of NSW Nature Conservation Council, Chris Gambian about a routine burn gone wrong in North Head, Manly, and how it's affected the area's wildlife.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by Chantelle Al-Khouri, Millie Roberts, Niki Iliagoueva and Vanessa Lim.
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This week on Backchat we speak to Sydney University's SRC president, Liam Donohoe, about police violence and the right to protest for student activists. Founder of small eco-business, Plasswitch, Ankita Agarwal joins us to discuss the small changes businesses and individuals can make that prioritise the environment's future.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by Millie Roberts, Tanita Razaghi & Bek Manibog.
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Ali Mojtahedi, a Principal solicitor for Immigration Advice and Rights Centre joins Backchat to speak about the changes to partner visas in regards to their English proficiency. After, we spoke with Journalist Ange McCormack on Tinder being a breeding ground for sexual predators.
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This week Backchat speaks to SOGICE Survivors about plans to ban LGBTQIA+ conversion practices in NSW, backlash that Jessica Tu has faced for her review literary review and Mark Latham's proposed education legislation changes and how this will impact trans and gender diverse children in NSW.
This episode of Backchat was brought to you by Izabella Antoniou, Bek Manibog, Tanita Razaghi, Millie Roberts and Charles Rushforth.
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Although it’s been a year since abortion was finally decriminalised in NSW, people with uteruses living in regional Australia still need to travel to different cities to have an abortion. Imogen Todd, the young women’s coordinator at Illawarra Women’s Health Centre, talks about some of the challenges women in rural areas are facing, now more than ever in COVID-19.
A freedom of information investigation conducted by the Sun Herald last week found that Western Sydney suburbs like Mount Druitt and Liverpool, which were at the top of the list - prompting concerns about the over-policing of minorities in those regions. Samantha Lee, a solicitor with Redfern Legal Centre, to discusses the issue with us.
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This week Backchat dives into the plight of young workers in the COVID era. Our reporter Sana Shaikh explores changes to JobKeeper legislation and the impact this will have on those receiving the payment. We also chat to Jack Boutros from the Transport Workers Union about the challenges faced by food delivery workers during the pandemic.
FBi SUPPORTER DRIVE - If you love what we do at Backchat, please consider joining us as a supporter. We need you to keep producing quality, independent journalism. Head to https://fbiradio.com/lets-bring-it-home-fbi-radio-supporter-drive-2020/ to sign up!
This episode was produced by Eddy Diamond, Millie Roberts, Natalie Sekulovska, Sana Shaikh and Tanita Razaghi.
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The NSW government this week introduced a plan to turn Sydney into a 24-hour city by extending opening hours and reducing red tape for businesses. Michael Rodrigues from the Night Time Industries Association discusses how these changes could affect our nightlife.
This month marks 20 years since the Sydney Olympics and looking back, there was a lot happening behind the scenes. Backchat reporter Charles Rushforth investigates how the 2000 Olympics caused mass evictions, threatened public housing, and put pressure on Sydney's homeless population.
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20 percent of Australians experience a mental illness in any given year, and research shows these conditions are more prevalent among 18 to 24-year-olds. Backchat reporter Chantelle Al-Khouri spoke to the Black Dog Institute, the Butterfly Foundation, and the Indigo Project about the spike in mental health issues facing young Aussies.
A movement to change the Aboriginal flag’s copyright permissions has recently kicked off. Nearly 150,000 people signing a petition to “free the flag”, while a federal inquiry into its licensing arrangements and use was launched last week. Wirlomin-Noongar writer and poet Claire G. Coleman helps us break down the misconceptions in this divisive debate.
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In 1999, Aminata Conteh-Biger was snatched from her father’s house as a teenager by rebel soldiers during Sierra Leone’s Civil War. She discusses her experiences in her 'Rising Heart' memoir and talks to us about the Maternal Aminata Foundation, that she started to help Sierra Leonean mothers.
Recent changes in Victoria mean that thousands of sexual assault survivors could be jailed or fined for speaking out under their own names. We speak to the people behind the #LetUsSpeak movement to find out what these reforms mean.
With our bushfire seasons becoming longer and more deadly, it’s clear something needs to change. Oliver Costello from the Firesticks Alliance Indigenous Corporation to gives us insight into traditional fire management practices and how they can be used in future bushfire seasons.
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The Morrison government has announced a plan to remove HECS access for uni students who fail multiple subjects. Lincoln Aspinall from the National Union of Students explains how these changes could leave students with a massive bill, or no other choice than to drop out of their courses.
Recently, some Australian universities were found out to be involved in wage theft, with some underpayments stretching back a whole decade. Alison Barnes, president of the National Tertiary Education Union discusses how universities facing big financial losses from COVID-19 has led to massive staff cuts and an increasingly casualised workforce.
Lastly, in celebration of FBi Radio's 17th birthday, we test our presenters on a 2003 music quiz!
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A study by Media Diversity Australia has found, that 75% of reporters, presenters and commentators are from an Anglo-Keltic background, which poorly reflects our multicultural society. Our first guest is Antoinette Lattouf, the director of Media Diversity Australia, discusses their new report, “Who Gets To Tell Australian Stories?”
Google's recent open letter claims the company is under attack by the Australian government and suggested our data could be at risk by new regulations proposed by the consumer watchdog. Senior media lecturer Dr Belinda Barnett discusses Google's claims.
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A report by CHOICE Australia found that over-30s could be paying nearly $35 a month for this premium service. That’s compared to young queer females, who pay around $7. Erin Turner from the consumer advocacy group CHOICE talks about their findings on Australia’s most downloaded dating app.
It’s estimated that period poverty affects over a million Aussies who can’t afford or access sanitary items due to homelessness, domestic violence or economic circumstances. The founder of Share the Dignity, Rochelle Courtenay, talks about their goal to pair people with these necessities this month.
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Teenagers in out of home care are more likely to become homeless or end up in prison, within the first 12 months of leaving the state care system when they turn 18. National Homeless Collective campaigner Nevena Spirovska talks to us about why it’s so important to provide extended care to young people in NSW.
A new survey has found fewer than one in ten renters who were struggling during the pandemic received a satisfactory rent reduction from their landlord. Joel Dignam, the Executive Director at Better Renting chats to us about their findings.
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The Productivity Commission's report found that incomes for people aged between 15 and 24 fell by nearly 2% a year, between 2008 and 2018. CEO of Youth Action NSW, Kate Munro explains what economic prospects for young people will look like in a post-Covid world.
Meme factories can shape social media, cultural references and public opinion. Internet studies researcher Dr Crystal Abidin talks about what meme factories are, and how they pivoted to corona content, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
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Last week, environmental groups threatened to boycott Samsung products if they didn’t stop funding Adani. Dan Gosher, the director of climate and environment at the Australasian Centre for Corporate Responsibility explains why corporations should reassess their corporate social responsibility when it comes to the climate crisis.
The end of financial year is where you’ll either get a fat sum back in your pocket or find out you owe the government a lot of money. To help us out with your concerns, we speak to director of tax communications at H&R Block, Mark Chapman.
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This year what we saw through the pandemic was that widespread adoption of telehealth made getting abortion medication easier, cheaper and safer. Freelance journo, Gina Rushton explains on why the government should extend telehealth abortion access across cities and regional areas.
There’s always been talk of needing more diverse perspectives in media, as many ethnic perspectives are often silenced or too narrowly portrayed. Egyptian-Australian Journalist and Writer, Daniel Nour, explains his keen interest in exploring the migrant experience, particularly about the Egyptian diaspora.
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Countries around the world are moving to ban TikTok in fear of data being sent to the Chinese government. Internet aficionado and tech journalist Cam Wilson talks about the likelihood of Australia also banning TikTok.
Counter Magazine covers all things tough, taboo and the beautiful when it comes to food. Counter Magazine co-editor Kate Johnston speaks about their unique approach to food journalism, and what we can expect from their second issue.
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Studies show women wait longer in emergency rooms, are less likely to receive painkillers, and have our side effects ignored in medical research. Gabrielle Jackson, the Guardian Australia's Associate News Editor, has written extensively on gendered health treatment and shares her own experiences.
Despite a lack of training on BIPOC hair, there are over a million First Nations, Torres Strait Island, African and Caribbean Aussies. Chrissy Zemura started a petition to mandate afro-textured hair education in TAFE’s Certificate III course and discusses the importance of inclusive haircare in Australia.
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The Morrison government has proposed uni fee changes that would ramp the costs of arts and humanities by over 100% in some courses. Sophie Johnston, a Commissioner with the National Youth Commission, explains what these changes mean for the next generation of students.
The Roberta Perkins Law Project, Australia’s first-ever transgender legal service staffed by trans and gender diverse lawyers, was officially launched in Melbourne. Sam Elkin, a writer, activist, and lawyer at the Roberta Perkins Law Project to tell us what they’re doing there, and how other states can follow suit.
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With the recession around the corner and unemployment on the rise, affordable housing is more important than ever. Pam Barker, CEO of youth social service Y-Foundations joins us to discuss the importance of affordable housing, particularly for at-risk youth.
World Refugee Day is a time to raise awareness and celebrate the contributions made by refugees. Kate Clugston from The Social Outfit tells us how they support Sydney’s refugee community by employing, educating and training refugee women in the fashion industry.
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Sydney’s Black Lives Matter protest was authorised by the Supreme Court in the knick of time, despite a campaign from NSW Police to stop it from going ahead on the grounds of public health concerns. Lawyer Sidnie Suh-rang from O'Brien Solicitors worked on both cases before the Supreme Court and shares the reasoning behind these judgements.
Hashtags about arson during our last disastrous bushfire season sparked debate about the true cause of this year’s Black Summer. Our reporter Eamonn Snow dug deep on online disinformation and how it can sway the Australian public.
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Sydney’s Black Lives Matter protest was authorised by the Supreme Court in the knick of time, despite a campaign from NSW Police to stop it from going ahead on the grounds of public health concerns. Lawyer Sidnie Suh-rang from O'Brien Solicitors worked on both cases before the Supreme Court and shares the reasoning behind these judgements.
Hashtags about arson during our last disastrous bushfire season sparked debate about the true cause of this year’s Black Summer. Our reporter Eamonn Snow dug deep on online disinformation and how it can sway the Australian public.
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The Black Lives Matter protests in America catalysed by the death of unarmed African-American George Floyd from police officers, have led us to reflect on how we treat Indigenous Australians. Joshua Creamer, a Barrister at Law, Waanyi and Kalkadoon man, talks about the high rate of Indigenous deaths in custody. This week, the Government acknowledged their failed robodebt system - a highly flawed, automated crackdown on welfare. Jenny Cao talks about her experiences with being a recipient of robodebt.
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One of the enduring issues faced by Indigenous communities is the forced removal of children from their families. Richard Weston from The Family Matters campaign explains why Indigenous kids are 10 times more likely to be removed than non-Indigenous children. A survey by Reconciliation Australia revealed that while 90% of Australians support reconciliation, less than a third know how to help. Yorta Yorta woman and lecturer at the University of Wollongong, Summer May Finlay explains how non-Indigenous people should engage in Indigenous spaces, and what we need to improve beyond National Reconciliation Week.
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The art industry is on high alert after the NSW Government withheld an annual grant from Australia’s biggest multi-arts venue Carriageworks, forcing it to go into voluntary administration. Executive Director of the National Association for the Visual Arts, Esther Anatolitis discusses how COVID-19 has affected the arts industry. Since the pandemic venues have been shut down, meaning drag queens are unable to perform live in person, in front of large crowds until further notice. Drag Artist, Etcetera Etcetera talks about what the drag community is currently doing online and the potential future of drag.
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A survey by the ABC has found only one-in-eight Aussies would feel comfortable attending a large event, one-in-five would consider flying on a plane, and only 40% would dine-in at a restaurant. Dr Rachael Murrahee, clinical psychologist and the director of the Kidman Centre joins us to talk about what social wellbeing will look like after lockdown.
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The coronavirus pandemic has seen racism against Australia’s East Asian community increase in recent months. A survey by the Asian Australian Alliance revealed 178 incidents of coronavirus-related racism in just a two week window. Osmond Chew, a research fellow at social justice and inequality think tank Per Capita, joins us to talk about this spike.
Later, the fashion industry is turning on its head—small businesses have closed up shop, global imports have been impacted and yet online shopping has skyrocketed during quarantine. Natalie Shehata, eco-stylist and founder of ethical fashion platform, tommie magazine, joins us to talk about unethical consumerism and the uncertainty for the future of fashion.
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The government’s COVIDSafe citizen tracking app launched last week. Naturally there are concerns over privacy, and exactly how it’ll work. Professor Kimberlee Wetherall, specialist in technology law, joins us to discuss exactly what this new app is all about.
Later, as the coronavirus continues to hammer the Australian economy, young people are going to bear the brunt of the downturn in the future. Ed Miller, Economic Fairness Campaigns Director at GetUp, joins us to talk to us about the economic cost of the pandemic and how we’re going to be paying for it in the future.
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As families are urged to self-isolate, survivors of family violence are being forced even closer to their abusers, causing an increase in cases of domestic and family abuse. Jess Hill, investigative journalist and author of See What You Made Me Do, joins us to talk to us about how survivors of family violence are being affected by the coronavirus lockdown orders.
If you or someone you know is impacted by domestic or family violence, call 1800 RESPECT or visit RESPECT.org.au
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Of all of the COVID-19 news, perhaps none is absurd is the backlash against 5G data technology. Joining us first is Cameron Wilson, Buzzfeed Internet Reporter and former Backchat producer to chat with us about the conspiracies behind Coronavirus and 5G technologies.
Later, Winnie Dunn is the General Manager of Sweatshop, a literacy movement which supports writers in Western Sydney. She’s got some news about Sweatshop’s new anthology. She’ll also be speaking to us about her experience living with an eating disorder in coronavirus isolation.
If this content was troubling, or you’re struggling through this crisis, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 44 or visit beyondblue.com.au for support.
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Isabella Kwai is a reporter for the New York Times who spent several weeks in Hong Kong covering the Coronavirus first-hand. She joins us to talk about watching the virus unfold from near the heart of the pandemic.
Later we’ve heard about the effects of COVID-19 on the entertainment industry, hospitality and retail, but what about sex work? Cameron Cox, CEO of the Sex Workers Outreach Project joins us to talk about how the virus is effecting the industry.
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The effects of the climate crisis are clearly showing, and while our country burns, our government seems to be doing very little. Federal member for Waringah, Zali Steggall, is introducing a new bill to parliament, which will ensure Australia has a clear national response to our climate challenges. Backchat producer Eden Faithfull sat down with Steggall to find out more about the bill.
Later, more and more young Australians are turning their backs on private health insurance, and many of us feel like we’re not getting value for money. We’re joined by Dean Price, Senior Campaigns & Policy Advisor at CHOICE, to unpack health insurance, and whether or not we really do need to be covered.
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The All About Women festival was held at the Opera House on the weekend, for International Women’s Day. This week we speak with two incredible artists who were featured at the festival.
First up, we’re joined by Stanislava Pinchuk AKA Miso, a Ukrainian-born, Melbourne-based artist, that maps areas of conflict around the world, using traditional materials like textiles, as well as tattoos.
Later, Sarina Masukor is a writer and filmmaker living in Sydney, whose work explores what it’s like to live in the twenty-first century. Sarina joins up to discuss her work, as well as the importance of diversity in the arts across Sydney.
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As the ongoing droughts make fresh produce more difficult to farm, it’s past time we start looking at alternative farming methods. blakthumb is a startup working to create small, networked farms in unused urban spaces. Co-founder Mel Fyfe joins us to talk about future-proofing our cities with urban farms.
Later, with Mardi Gras about to kick off, there’s a lot of chatter about corporations co-opting pride. Queer activist Aiden Magro joins us in the studio discuss the corporatisation of Mardi Gras, and how it might be taking up space from more important queer conversations.
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More and more 'buy now, pay later’ options are emerging, and young adults are putting themselves deeper into debt than they realise. Paridhi Jain, founder of financial training service Skilled Smart, joins us to talk about better managing our finances.
Later, Kin Fertility is a new startup, looking to revolutionise reproductive healthcare in Australia, and educate people with a uterus about how to best access the healthcare they need. Co-Founder Nicole Liu joins us to talk about their work.
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Earlier this year, Penrith was the hottest place on earth, and microclimates in Sydney’s urban sprawl are creating temperature disparities of over 10°C. Dr. Sebastian Pfautsch, a climate expert from Western Sydney University, joins us to talk about his work with Penrith City Council to quantify temperatures and mitigate the climate crisis.
Later, while trying to hold the government, and corporations to account for the climate crisis, how much individual responsibility to we each bear? Madeleine Morris, ABC News finance reporter, joins us to talk about reducing your individual carbon footprint.
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we are the mainstream is an emerging collective for Black, Indigenous and Womxn of Colour, exploring what it’s like to be a woman of colour across various industries and, within the context of every day Australian society. Founder of we are the mainstream, Priyanka Bromhead, joins us to talk about the collective, and their upcoming symposium on Feb 29th.
Later, Sweaty City is a new publication focusing on environmentalism and urban ecology, aiming to chart the stories of Sydney's residents affected by climate change and rapidly expanding urban sprawl. Founder Angela Heathcote joins us to discuss the new magazine.
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Recent reports indicate that the Health Star Rating System isn’t that reliable. Choice, Australia’s largest consumer advocacy group, has accused food manufacturers of "gaming" the system, by picking and choosing which products to put stars on, leading to a bias towards those products. Linda Przhedetsky, a food policy expert from Choice, joins us to explain.
Later, we look into the recent ‘Yes’ vote on the referendum for Australia to become a Republic. Not for real Australia, but the alternate reality one which plays out on the Subreddit, ‘AustraliaSim’. Buzzfeed News reporter, and former Backchat producer Cameron Wilson joins us to talk about this bizarre pocket of the internet.
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Grime and Drill music are becoming increasingly popular, and many are finding ties to Sydney’s Western Suburbs. Writer and host on Vice’s Violent Times, Mahmood Fazal, joins us to talk about the special connection between rap music and Sydney’s West.
Later, it was recently reported that Villawood, one of Australia’s major immigration detention centres, has been scolded by a tribunal for repeatedly bringing detainees to their hearings too late. This is just one in a host of problems faced by detainees at detention centres. Buzzfeed reporter Hannah Ryan joins us to discuss lengths the Australian government has gone to in order to keep sick refugees away from our shores.
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After the ceasefire between the US and Turkey ended, Turkey has indicated they intend to remain in Syria, meanwhile Donald Trump announced US forces with also remain to protect oil fields from Islamic State. Dr Mehmet Oz-alp, Director of the Centre for Islamic Studies and Civilisation at Charles Sturt University, joins us for insight on the situation.
Later, it’s been two years since same-sex marriage was passed, but beyond the law, how much has changed? Backchat reporter Olivia Stanley takes a look into the treatment of LGBTQI+ Australians in the church.
Finally, daft proposals to change the NSW consent laws were submitted this week. They clarify that sexual consent hasn’t been given, if a person “freezes” or doesn’t give any direct, verbal indication of consent. Many experts are saying they’re still not strong enough. Academic and researcher Dr Rachael Burgin who specialises in sexual assault law in Victoria joins us to discuss the proposal.
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There are currently seven hundred thousand people in Australia actively looking for a job, and a market with only two hundred thousand vacancies. Not to mention the further million who are under-employed. Edward Miller, a Campaigns Director for Economic Fairness at GetUp joins us to discuss the possibility of an Australian Universal Job Guarantee initiative.
Later, ‘fast-fashion’—single-wear wardrobe fillers from brands like Zara and H&M may be cheap, but they come at other costs. Natalie Shehata, founder and editor of Tommie Magazine joins us to talk about slow-fashion, recycling, and making ethical choices with your wardrobe.
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The more information we give to social media, the more power they have to influence us. Lyndsey Jackson, a digital rights expert from Electronic Frontiers Australia, joins us to talk about the ways in which our favourite social media apps are changing, and what that means for our online security.
Later, Australians gamble $24 billion a year, and growing concern for problem gamblers has helped launch the Community Benefit Payment Scheme. Backchat reporter Eamonn Snow looks into gambling issues in Australia, and what the government is actually doing about it.
If you or somebody you know suffers from a gambling addiction, you can reach out to the Multicultural Problem Gambling Service on 1800 856 800 or to Lifeline crisis support on 13 11 14.
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According to the United Nations’ Refugee Agency’s 2019 report, there are currently more than 70 million displaced people around the globe. Lynn Dang is a former refugee, board member of Australia for United Nations Refugee Comission, and head of talent acquisition at Microsoft Australia—she recently travelled to Uganda to understand the progressive programs they’ve implemented to support their 1.3 million refugees. She joins is to share her insight into refugee policy in Uganda, and what we in Australia could learn from them.
Later, we take a quick look inside the glossy pages of gossip magazines at celebrity rumour journalism.
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Congestion in Sydney is an ongoing problem, but over the next decade the city’s population is expected to grow to over 7 million people, pushing us into a congestion crisis. Deputy CEO and Director of Policy for Committee of Sydney, Eamon Waterford, talks with us about what 'congestion crisis' means, and what we’re doing to prevent it.
Later, ‘Breaking the Model’ is a new doco on SBS Viceland’s The Feed, looking into the way the modelling industry exploits child models. Documentary creator, comedian and former child-model Jenna Owen joins us.
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Scott Morrison’s government has revived controversial legislation that would force 5,000 Newstart and youth allowance recipients to undergo drug testing to get their welfare payments. Dr. Nicole Lee, drug policy expert from Curtin University’s National Drug Research Institute, joins us to discuss the proposal.
Later, after 5 years of controversy the state government is taking steps to remove the lockout laws - everywhere except for Kings Cross. Michael Rodrigues, Managing Director of Time Out Australia, and chair of the Night Time Industries Association speaks with us about the changes.
Finally, ‘Her Sound, Her Story’ is a moving documentary exploring women in Australia’s music scene. An intimate conversation with 45 artists spanning six decades, it discusses the experiences, triumphs and social impact of women in the industry. Documentary co-creator and self-taught music photographer Michelle Grace Hunder joins us.
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Sydney Water levels are dropping faster than they have in decades across 11 dams in Greater Sydney, and levels are about to drop below 50%. Still, we aren’t talking about drought in greater Sydney. Environmentalist Liz Miu joins us to discuss the water crisis, and what small changes that we can all make to conserve water. Later, Archibald Prize finalist Amani Haydar has a new exhibition at Fairfield City Museum and Gallery. Lawyer, artist, mother, and domestic violence advocate—Haydar joins us to talk about her life, art and advocacy.
If you or somebody you know is experiencing domestic violence you can visit 1800respect.org.au or call Lifeline on 13 11 14 to be put in contact with State Crisis Services.
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Free flowing information on the internet is seen as tantamount to a functioning democracy. Somewhat unsurprisingly, Russia’s government is looking to implement a centralised, state controlled internet. We’re joined by Russian independent investigative journalists Andrei Soldatov and Irina Borogan, who have spent years investigating how the Kremlin watches over its citizens
Later, in the wake of an increase in accidental deaths by drug overdose, new laws by the NSW government may see people who sell illicit drugs be prosecuted for homicide if the person who uses the drug dies as a result. Dr Elyse Methven, Lecturer in Law and a UTS Early Career Research Fellow, joins us to discuss the new law.
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A new report from Diversity Arts Australia indicates that Australian art bodies are lacking in culturally and linguistically diverse leadership across all sectors. Lena Nahlous, Executive Director of Diversity Arts Australia joins us to talk about their report, and what we can do going forward.
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At the Pacific Islands Forum 2019, Scott Morrisson made his opposition to other Pacific Islands nations’ views on climate change known. When it was called for an immediate global ban on the construction of new coal-fired power plants, Australia was the only country to opt out of supporting the statement. Director of the climate and energy program at the Australia Institute, Richie Merzian joins us to discuss our representation at the forum. Later, as of 2020, Australian universities will be measured across new performance criteria to unlock funding increases. These criteria include graduate employment outcomes, student experience, and enrolment of Indigenous, disadvantaged, and rural students. Desiree Cai, Australia-wide President for the National Union of Students, joins us to unpack these changes.
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We’re seeing more and more climate protests across the world, and last week Lobby group Extinction Rebellion hit the main stage with attention-grabbing demonstrations in Brisbane. Nicola Paris from CounterAct joins us to talk about what makes for a successful protest. Later, do you ever wonder how visually-impaired people get immersed in cinema, TV and theatre, or even live public events? Backchat reporter Rhianna Soliman looks into how audio captions work, and why Australia is so far behind.
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Globally, 2019 has been full of bad news for reproductive rights. The good news is, the Reproductive Healthcare Reform Bill 2019 has seen bipartisan support in NSW Parliament. Medical Director of Family Planning NSW, Dr Deborah Bateson joins us to discuss the ramifications of decriminalising abortion in NSW. Later, dating can be tricky at the best of times. For young people with intellectual or learning disabilities, the challenges and stigma surrounding dating and relationships can be overwhelming. Relationship coach and sexuality advisor Liz Dore is a on a mission to break the taboos surrounding love and relationships for everyone—she joins us to discuss her work. Finally, that feeling of overwhelming sadness, and dread has a name—‘climate grief’. Comedian, ASMR eco-activist, and climate griever Issy Phillips talks about mourning the Pale Blue Dot.
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NAIDOC week was observed from July 7th to 14th, celebrating the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This week’s show reflects some of the voices of the people behind these achievements. Thomas Mayor, a Torres Strait Islander man born on Larrakia country in Darwin. He’s also the National Indigenous Officer at a construction union and an advocate for the Uluru Statement from the Heart. He spoke to us about his work on the Statement, and where we should be looking to from here.
Later we’re joined by Corey Tutt, a Kamilaroi man who runs Deadly Science, a program which encourages Indigenous students to stick with STEM subjects, by sending them books and equipment across the country.
Finally, we speak with Kalinda Griffiths, a Yawuru woman and Epidemiologist at the UNSW Centre for Big Data Research, about how Indigenous people are represented in Australia’s official statistics.
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Starting this month the HECS repayment threshold has dropped to $45,881 a year. To discuss what this will mean for lower-earning graduates, and the broader economy, Sam Langford, Junkee news and politics reporter joins us.
Later, Canberra is always the butt of Sydney’s jokes, but why is our nation’s capital also our punching bag? Prue Robson, Canberra migrant, and PhD candidate from the University of Canberra joins us in defence of the city.
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‘Climate Emergency’ has been declared in Sydney by Lord Mayor Clover Moore, following 600 similar declarations worldwide. City of Sydney Councillor and Deputy Chair of the Environment Committee Jess Miller joins us to discuss climate futures in Sydney and Australia.
Later, transport in Sydney is a constant cause for complaint, but recent shakeups and innovations seem to be inching us forward. Transportist David Levinson, an Honorary Associate at the Institute of Transport and Logistics Studies at Sydney University, joins us to talk about the state of transport in Sydney.
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Every day the plight of refugees coming to Australia, especially those on Manus and Nauru, is becoming more and more dire. Florence Cruz Montalvo is a solicitor at Legal Aid’s Refugee Service, and she joins to us about the ways in which their service can improve the lives and experiences of young people and refugees in Australian society.
We also hear a story from Backchat’s regular co-host Shami Sivasubramanian about Techfugees: a not-for-profit that seeks to use technology to help newly-arrived refugees to Australia.
Later, we’ve been yelling about climate change for a while, maybe it’s time to try whispering. Comedian Issy Phillips joins us to talk about ASMR as the next frontier of climate activism.
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From July 1st, there are going to be big changes to how your superannuation is managed, but most young people don’t even know how much is in their super. Acting Director of the Superannuation Consumers’ Centre at CHOICE, Xavier O’Halloran, joins us to explain what’s happening.
Later, the role of geography in Islamophobia. We’re joined by Rhonda Itaoui from the Challenging Racism Project, and PhD candidate at Western Sydney University, to discuss how racism manifests differently depending on where you live and work.
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It’s national Reconciliation Week, allowing us time to reflect on the contributions and achievements of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. However the week doesn’t go by without criticism from Indigenous Australians. To discuss the triumphs and shortcomings of Reconciliation Week, Nathan moodyi Sentance, a Wiradjuri man from the Australian Museum joins us.
Later, the term ‘revenge porn’ has been used for some time to refer to the sharing of partners’ private images. Many academics are pushing for a move away from the term to ‘image based abuse’, in an effort to desexualise the act and better address the motivations, and consequences for victims. Associate professor in the Social and Global Studies Centre at RMIT University, Nicola Henry, joins us to discuss.
Finally, the abortion ban in Alabama has sparked conversation about reproductive rights the world over. We’re joined by Sydney high school student Bella Ziade has organised a rally to fight for bodily autonomy on June 9th.
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The lack of diverse publications has been increasingly highlighted and internationally challenged in recent years, forcing us to question how well represented Indigenous and people of colour writers are in Australia. Gaining statistics to answer this question, however, is proving very difficult. Hella Ibrahim is the founder and editorial director of Djed Press, she joins us to discuss the issue of representation in publishing in Australia.
Later, following the Coalition’s election victory, one of the LNP’s first priorities is to repeal the medevac law. This law allowed refugees and asylum seekers in need of medical attention to be transferred to Australia. All of this follows a notable spike in self-harm and suicide attempts among off-shore refugees and asylum seekers in the wake of the election. Keeping us up to speed on developments is human rights campaigner Renaire Druery from GetUp!.
If you or anyone you know is in need of support, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, at any hour of the day.
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With a nail-biting election in process, the unprecedented number of young voters enrolled is expected to shake up results. Ariadne Vromen, a Professor of Political Sociology at the University of Sydney, joins us to discuss the election from a young voters perspective, and the way major parties have (or have not) effectively made campaign appeals to the demographic.
May 18th is also significant in global politics this year, as the finale of the Eurovision contest is set to go ahead in Israel, despite controversies due to the ongoing conflict with Palestine. This comes just three days after Nakba Day, literally translating to ‘Day of the Catastrophe’, which commemorates the mass displacement and human rights abuse of Palestinian people that has continued since late 1940s. Sydney lawyer and Palestinian rights activist Ramia Abdo Sultun joins us to talk about the controversy caused by the decision to host the finale in Israel.
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A recent YouGov survey indicates that 51% of Australians have ‘unfavourable sentiments’ towards Islam, with only 10% of the population looking upon the religion positively. The results also revealed that Australia is more negative towards Islam than 17 of the other 22 countries surveyed. Writer Ruby Hamad joins Backchat to discuss this survey outcome, and Islamophobia in contemporary Australia.
Later, a look into the election campaign. Voters are being bombarded with promises and posturing on more platforms than ever before. Whether it’s Clive Palmer’s bizarre United Australia Party’s ads, smear campaigns, or straight-up lies—it seems like it’s pretty much a free-for-all for politicians. Shami and Swetha look into the laws surrounding election campaign advertisements, and just how tight they are. Also, producer Eden Faithful joins for a pop quiz on how well you’ve been following politics in the lead up to the election.
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The 2019 federal election is set to boast the highest enrolment rate in Australian history—96.8%, and a record enrolment rate for young Australians aged 18-24, at 88.8%. Katie Acheson, CEO of the Australian Youth Affairs Coalition, joins Backchat to talk about the reasons behind the enrolment spike, a possible election outcomes.
Also, the Coalition has recently committed to funding two additional case workers and cyber security measures at the Penrith Women’s Health Centre. This comes under its total domestic violence spending, which adds up to 328 million dollars. Lula Dembele, Co-Founder Childhood Domestic Violence Australia, joins to discuss the ways in which the government can move to a safer and more rigorously supportive society for survivors of domestic abuse.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, please call 1800RESPECT for help and information.
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Jason Wing is a Canterbury-based Birripai Chinese-Indigenous artist who has just unveiled ‘Rainbow Warrior’, a new mural at Ewan Perk in Hurlstone Park as part of the 2019 Wurridjal Festival. Jason joins Backchat to talk about his work, the importance of contemporary Indigenous art, and maintaining cultural history.
Backchat reporter Lindsay Riley also investigates the impact of the 2018 Data Sharing and Release bill which gives the government the power to share their data on you.
Finally, we look into the rise of youth homelessness in Sydney, particularly in the Inner West. Zoe Robinson, CEO of YFoundations joins us to explore the issue, and discuss the work of her organisation.
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The Wangchuks are Bhutanese a family who have lived and worked in Australia since 2012. They are now facing deportation after their permanent residency was refused, because their deaf son would be a “cost” to the taxpayer. Disability Officer for the National Union of Students and friend of the family Will Edwards, joins us to explain their situation and help share their story.
Also, Michael Hing, comedian and writer for SBS’s The Feed, is now a senate candidate. Set to take Australian politics by storm, Hing has formed the One Asian Party, and he joins us to talk about policy and his potential political career.
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This week on Backchat, we talk to photojournalist Mridula Amin and artist and photographer Lachie Hinton who recently reported on the experiences of refugee children living on Nauru for the New York Times.
Later, we chat to lawyer and human rights advocate Teela Reid about the importance of a First Nations Voice before Australia puts forward a republic referendum.
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We are celebrating 15 years of FBi Radio this week!
Listen for all the hits from 2003, including Guy Sebastian's Angels Brought Me Here and Missy Elliot's Work It. Plus, we quiz our hosts Swetha and Nat about Australian pop culture from the year.
We also chat to Newtown Greens MP Jenny Leong about proposed changes to NSW's rental laws and pill testing at music festivals.
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Three quarters of people in NSW do not know that abortion is a crime in this state. We chat to Maddy Ward, women's collective officer at the University of Sydney, who was nearly suspended for protesting against an anti-abortion stall on campus under pressure from Labor MP Greg Donnelly.
Later, we talk to Ash Streeter-Jones, co-founder and COO of Jasiri Australia, about women in politics and improving gender representation in parliament.
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Big news in politics this week! An ex-campaign advisor to Trump has been sentenced to 14 days in prison for lying to the FBI about Russian intervention in the 2016 elections. Plus, the sexual harrassment claims against Barnaby Joyce were declared inconclusive.
We also chat to sociologist and academic Dr Na'ama Carlin about the commercialisation of Australian universities.
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This week, we discuss the Liberal Party's huge bloodspill following the leadership change, plus Mark Latham's defamation case against Backchat alumnus Osman Faruqi.
Plus, we welcome Marwa Al-Sabouni, author of The Battle for Home: The Memoir of a Syrian Architect, to talk about design and architecture's role in rebuilding war-ravaged cities. We also chat to Terri Butler, Shadow Minister for Young Australians and Youth Affairs, about pressing issues for young Australian people today, including housing affordability.
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Earlier this week, Queensland senator Fraser Anning used his maiden speech in parliament to call for an end to Muslim immigration in Australia, invoking the "final solution to the immigration problem." We discuss what Anning's speech reflects to the state of race politics in Australia.
Later, we chat to Lyndsey Jackson, Chair of Electronic Frontiers Australia, about a new law proposal which would create a process where the government would be able to access your encrypted data. She discusses the draft laws and how it would impact on our privacy.
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