The Swanston Explainer: Recent Episodes
The Swanston Gazette
An RMIT podcast investigating the people, topics and issues that will define the 2022 Australian Federal Election.
A collaboration with The Swanson Gazette, a student-run independent media organisation.
Follow us @swan_explainer on Instagram and Twitter.
The AFL is deeply woven into the fabric of Australia’s history, culture and sense of national identity, encapsulating positive qualities of connection, competition and tradition.
However, when Port Adelaide player Jeremy Finlayson received a three-match ban for using a homophobic slur in early April, it sparked renewed debate over the culture of homophobia that pervades the beloved sport and the AFL’s seemingly inconsistent policing of such discrimination.
The fact remains: there is not a single LGBTQ+ identifying player in the league. How can we change this culture of silence?
Host - Kristy Nicolaou
Reporter- Ben Lawson
Producer - Laura Jarvis
Series Producer - Sophia Grant
Image credit - Cecile Bomstad on Unsplash
Australia's leading supermarkets, Coles and Woolworths, are under fire after being called out for engaging in price gouging practices.
In-store prices are reaching an all time high, but local farmers are struggling the most.
Despite farmers' efforts to feed Australian families, supermarkets are not providing the adequate compensation they need to survive.
So what does this mean for our farming industry?
Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or head to the link in our bio
Host - Keely Forbes
Reporter's - Marquise Dale
Producer - Alyssa Fraser
Series Producer - Molly Inglis
Image Credit- Adobe Stock
Has thrifting a once sustainable practice, just become another way to feed the consumption machine?
This episode unpacks the trend of second-hand goods, the pressures of social media, Depop re-sellers and the major jump in prices across all opportunity shops.
The second-hand market is expected to increase by 126% by 2026, this is three times faster than the global apparel market.
So, it’s clear thrifting is here to stay and societies issues with over consumption are too.
Host - Rani Fletcher
Reporter - Mika Gerrish
Producer - Natalie Flemming
Series Producer - Sophia Grant
Image Credit - Sophia Grant
The Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games are back, set to takeover Paris in July - and for the first time in eight years, they'll be full-scale events, no longer restricted by the implications of the Covid-19 pandemic.
New venues have been constructed to facilitate thousands of athletes as millions of fans flock to France for the competition. There's no refuting the grand scale of the production.
But it raises the question, can Games of this magnitude ever truly be sustainable?
Join Tara Clifford, Thomas Colasante, and special guest Dr. Myla Andamon as they explore how the International Olympic Committee is investing in green initiatives, and whether it's enough to combat climate change.
Plus, a deep-dive into what the future of the Olympics will look like as a result.
*
Host: Tara Clifford
Reporter: Thomas Colasante
Producer: Yvette Campitelli-Slee
Series Producer: Grace Frost
To steal or not to steal?
For many Australians, staying above the poverty line is a full time job.
With the cost of living crisis raging, the pressure of arguably unreasonably high prices for grocery staples has come under fire, with Australia's major supermarket chains being accused of price gauging.
Is it fair for for those facing financial pressure to take from supermarket chains, arguably stealing from them?
Piper Wright and Taylah Sadgrove unpack the ethics surrounding stealing and speak with regular shoplifters to give you answers to this multifaceted issue.
*
Host: Piper Wright
Reporter: Taylah Sadgrove
Producer: Maxi Sam-Morris
Assistant Producer: Taylah Sadgrove
Series Producer: Grace Frost
Join reporter Alexander Masterson as he unpacks the pressing debate on pill testing with host Alexandra Lehmann, diving into the contention surrounding harm-reduction strategies.
The episode follows a suspected overdose at the Pitch festival, with Greens senator Aiv Puglielli urging the Victorian Government to respond to alarming illicit drug use findings.
*
Host: Alexandra Lehmann
Reporter: Alexander Masterson
Producer: Ting Chang (Jason) Lim
Series Producer: Grace Frost
Thinking of taking Ozempic? Here's everything you need to know.
You might have heard of Ozempic - the revolutionary drug originally developed for type 2 diabetes that's now changing the face of weight loss and challenging perceptions of food.
Its popularity is skyrocketing, fuelled by social media buzz and celebrity endorsements.
Join us as we delve into the personal impacts of Ozempic, exploring not only stories of transformation but the broader socio-economic implications of this ground-breaking drug as it continues to gain momentum.
*
Host: Zakai Boutkan-sparkes
Reporter: David Allen
Producer: Abdulrahman Abdulkader
Series Producer: Grace Frost
Marijuana, or cannabis, is illegal for use or trade in Australia. However Cannabis has been decriminalised in Canberra, but not throughout the rest of the country.
A new bill titled the Legalising Cannabis Bill 2023 could change this.
If passed, the 2023 bill will legalise cannabis for recreational use in Australia. The bill is currently awaiting the reporting date, May 31.
Until the reporting date, it’s important to discuss what this legalisation could look like in Australia.
More specifically, how it will be regulated, what it will do for our economy, and more in today's episode.
Host - Aleyna Ozsoy
Reporter's - Sienna Seychell and Emma Sampson
Producer - Justin Schwarze
Series Producer - Molly Inglis
Image Credit- CRYSTALWEED Cannabis on Unsplash
On Valentine's Day 2024, a class action was filed against Match Group, the company responsible for dating apps such as Hinge, Tinder and OkCupid.
The Class Action Lawsuit claims the apps are purposefully designed to be addictive. The lawsuit notes that the company profits from a predatory business model that transforms looking for love into something similar to a gambling addiction.
In this episode, we dive into all things love. Can you find love on the internet? Can romance that blossomed on Tinder be just as strong as your typical 'meet cute'?
Are we better off ditching the apps and taking up more hobbies to meet people the good old natural way? Do dating apps just make us more miserable?
Host: Hannah Robbins
Reporter: Galen Sullivan
Producer: Beatrice Tan
Image credit - Unsplash
Follow us on Instagram @swan_explainer
On April 13th a man entered the Westfield at Bondi Junction and killed 6 people. On April 15th a teenager allegedly stabbed a church Bishop during a livestream.
Only one of these attacks was considered terrorism. Where can we draw the line on ideology?
This podcast contains discussion of terrorist attacks both current and in Australia’s past, as well as domestic violence. These topics can be distressing for some listeners
If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 1800RESPECT
Host: Nyah Barnes
Reporter: Liam Cole
Producer: Victoria Bailey
Series Producer: Molly Inglis
Image Credit - Adobe Stock
So much in our world goes to waste. From the food we eat, clothes we wear and even our energy. It's getting to the point where our actions can be irreversible.
However, there is hope all thanks to the zero waste movement.
With a chat to a pioneer in the space, Joost Bakker, who is behind zero-waste creations such as The Future Food System. Find out how you can take those small steps to lead a more sustainable lifestyle.
Host: Isaac Haber
Reporter: Matilda McDermott
Producer: Jack Huggett
Series Producer: Molly Inglis
Image Credit - Dan Bushaway, Champ magazine
Follow us on Instagram @swan_explainer
Discover the magic of romanticising your life in our latest podcast.
We delve into the history and concept of romanticism, exploring how this mindset can transformdaily routines.
Interviewing Melbournians, we uncover their views on whether romanticising life offers a meaningful escape or practical solution during the cost of living crisis.
Tune in to learn how to infuse beauty into the mundane and assess if it truly helps ease financialpressures.
Host: Thomas Williamson
Reporter: Chelsea Szabo
Producer:Charlotte Wilkes
Series Producer: Molly Inglis
Image Credit - Adobe Stock
Follow us on Instagram @swan_explainer
The life of an athlete is extraordinary. A fast-paced lifestyle, with accolades and sponsorships. Incredible opportunities to show off talent and hard work. However, this profession comes with many challenges, often manifested in mental health issues. With more and more athletes becoming outspoken about their own internal struggles, what about their job causes these hits to mental health and what is currently being done to support them?
The Nazi salute has been banned in Victoria following multiple displays across the state, with a federal ban soon to arrive. But with neo-Nazis marching once again, this time in Ballarat, Penry Buckley and Edmund Coleman take you through the apparent ‘rise’ of the far-right in Victoria: How has it expanded post-pandemic? Where is its base? Who opposes it? And what is the government doing about it?
This episode was researched, recorded and produced on Wurundjeri land.
Ruth McHugh-Dillon, Annabel Fleming and Niamh Sutton explore the launch of SSRI drugs. Revolutionised treatment for depression, anxiety and other mental health issues, but how are these drugs affecting the body?
Madi Lo-Booth and Sydney Lang present The Varroa mite, or Varroa destructor. It is a parasitic mite that affects European Honey Bees. In 2022, the parasite reached Australian shores for the first time, prior to this, Australia was the only continent in the world unaffected by the mite. Whilst the mite hasn’t been seen in Victoria yet, the recent decision to shift from eradication to management may see the mite cross the border into Victoria.
Laura Costello and Dechlan Brennan discuss and breakdown the legal battles that former president Donald Trump is currently facing, and how his legal issues are impacting his 2024 presidential campaign.
Australian students who are studying a range of vocational degrees such as nursing, social work, teaching, counselling and psychology are forced to undertake hours of unpaid placements as a part of their study. However, due to the rising cost of living, the amount of hours they are forced to spend at their placement is often unviable for students trying to support themselves. Many don’t have time to work enough to earn the money they need to support themselves, leading to pontentially dropout of specific courses.
Ciara Duffy - Quinn
Maya Duggan
Tim MacDougall
Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty
When was the last time you watched a DVD?Enter your own world of nostalgia but be careful, what was once the generic way to watch a movie is now outdated. After Netflix's recent decision to stop its DVD mailing service after 25 years, it seems that putting on a physical DVD is a thing of the past. This podcast delves into the transition from physical DVD stores to the rise of streaming services and explores how technology has revolutionised the way we enjoy watching film.
Sarah Hadeed
Lily Kristanto
Dylan Beaumont
Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty
TikTok quickly shot into the spotlight a couple of years ago and has since become the most popular social media among Gen Z. However, concerns have been raised over its safety due to data sharing, and possible connections to the Chinese Government. Over the past few weeks the app has been banned from federal government devices across Australia, following similar actions across the UK, Canada, France and New Zealand. As restrictions tighten, the threat of the app being banned across the country is looming. But what does that mean for you? And more importantly, what does that mean for small businesses that rely on the app for their livelihoods?
Host: Tom Ingleton
Reporter: Ben Astell
Producer: Alexandra Bloom
Series producer: Sabrina Caires
AUKUS is a military alliance between Australia, the UK, and the US that was originally agreed upon in 2021.
The deal will see the three countries collaborate their resources and information to design a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. The deal is projected to cost the Australian Government upwards of $300 Billion AUD.
The deal has since been criticized by multiple sources, including; France, China, and the Australian Public. Australian Defense Strategist, Hugh White, sheds some light on the topic.
As the 2024 Olympics slowly loom upon us, sport has again become divided over inclusiveness. In its announcement, governing body of World Athletics has tightened their policy and effectively banned transgender women from participating in elite track and field competitions.
This divide has posed questions surrounding the science of the ban: is the science actually based on evidence? Won't this hinder research on the athletic performance of transgender women?
ChatGPT is on the tip of everyone's tongue. It's the talk around town, and its advancement doesn't seem to be slowing down.
What does this mean for education?
High schools are banning its use, universities are updating their assessment guidelines, and still some students can only sing its praises. As AI technology moves into the future, schools are travelling back in time to pen-and-paper exams to combat plagiarism concerns. Is there a better way forward or is it too late?
Host: Ashlynn O'Brien
Reporter: Nour Hegazy
Producer: Lily Tuck
Series producer: Sabrina Caires
With many athletes suffering from post-professional sport injuries, the rate of long term effects of concussions in those professional sports has increased. Many of these athletes struggle in their day-to-day life mentally, physically, and psychologically after they leave their respective sports. Sports psychologists who work first-hand with professional players or ex-players have a deeper understanding into why the effects of concussions affect a player’s mental and psychological well-being and their lifestyle in the long term.
Host: Yarrah Muneer
Reporter: Fereshteh Nazari
Producer: Nathan Sepe
Series producer: Sabrina Caires
The rise of Melbourne as a DIY tattoo mecca in Australia, exploring the differing opinions within the tattoo community and its relationship within the greater community.
To explore how legislation and historical forces has created the tightly-knit scene in Melbourne’s northern suburbs including the adversary some artists are facing from abandoning traditional spaces and practices.
We wish to shine a light on both sides of the industry, highlighting concerns the government, community safety and the well-established artists in the tattoo world.
You may have seen it on the news and in the hands of many, but you probably haven’t seen it on the shelves.
Prime is the drink everyone’s talking about and it’s stirring up some controversy — particularly about influencer products, their marketing, and the effect this has on its mostly young audience.
In this episode, we ask why it’s in the news, and find out what’s behind this social media craze.
Producer/Host: Stella Thomson
Producer/Reporter: Ben Richards
Living in a home off our own merit is one of the first rights of passage we cross into the world of adulting. Unfortunately, the affordability for housing among university students continues to deplete year by year with students scrambling to find solutions. Why has the economic stability of the housing market imploded like this? What can we do to help solve it for others in need? These are just some of the lingering questions that have left desperate homeowners in a hole that lacks a ladder to climb out of.
Bridget Clarke
Liam Grant
Miles Earl
Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty
Live music is a passion for so many, yet many venues fall short of providing accessible experiences for those with disabilities.Recently, Chloe Hayden, a young Australian with autism who rose to fame on tik tok and has recently been on the Netflix show ‘Heartbreak High’ spoke out about her experience with the sensory rooms at Marvel Stadium after the Harry Styles concert in February. So, music venues around Australia need to examine their current approaches to accessibility to ensure everyone is accounted for. With 1 in 6 Australians living with a disability, it's an extremely prominent audience that cannot be ignored. We'll also look at the venues and festivals who are doing accessibility right, what other venues in Australia can learn from them, and what this means going forward for the future of live music.
Oliver Winn
Ruby Reilly
Reese Mautone
Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty
Melbourne’s controversial e-scooter trial has been given extended life, expanded for six months and now includes the use of private devices. The news comes as injuries presented at Melbourne hospitals soar into the hundreds. Innocent victims are sharing their stories of being hit on city streets.This week, the Swanston Explainer examines the trial's progression, its flaws and what is being done to increase safety.
Host: Eden Hayes
Reporter: Jack Ward
Producer: Jade Egan
Series Producer: Sabrina Caires
Melbourne's International Comedy has just finished up after a month of laughs, with many newcomers and young comics making their mark on the comedy stage. In today's climate cancel culture is more prevalent than ever so comedians have to tread carefully along the line of funny or too far. We spoke to some of the Festivals debut comics as well as some familiar young faces to see how they are navigating the ups and downs of stand-up with their voices and opinions on an international stage. We also chat about recent examples of "cancelling" and what that means for the arts and comedy scene.
Host: Phoebe Billing
Journalist: Jada Cannizzo
Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty
Sleep is an essential aspect of our lives that affects our physical and mental health, productivity, and overall well-being. The conversation around sleep has become increasingly important in recent years as more research has shed light on the negative consequences of sleep deprivation and poor sleep habits. From exploring the science of sleep to discussing effective strategies for improving sleep hygiene, the topic of sleep has sparked a widespread interest and concern.
Host: Christian Montegan
Journalist: Nur Ameera Mohamed Suib
Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty
Dementia is currently the second leading cause of death in Australia, with provisional data showing that dementia is likely to become the leading cause of death among Australians in the near future. In society, there seems to be a common belief that by simply listening to music can benefit dementia patients.
While there is no current cure, the combination of music therapy, interaction, and engagement has shown to be beneficial tools in helping those living with dementia. Benefits show an increase in relaxation, and a decrease in agitation and can even provoke positive emotions.
First trialed in 2018, the North Richmond safe injecting facility has passed its trial period and has been made a permanent site. The controversial safe injection rooms have many locals in uproar with them feeling their concerns have been largely unanswered. With a similar facility planned for Melbournes CBD near Queen Victoria Market, many question if the Richmond facility is a necessity. Given its close proximity to Richmond West Primary school, residents are concerned about negative impacts, including increases in discarded needles in the area.
Host: Tosh Mannion
Reporter: Helena Kayalicos
Producer: Ben Inglis
Series Producer: Sabrina Caires
Australians are notorious for their gambling and the government is trying to find solutions to drive that number of gamblers down. There have been recent legal modifications to the way gambling advertisements are presented, where gambling companies were forced to change the "Gamble responsibly" slogan to other alternatives such as "What's Gambling really costing you?" In this episode, we dive into the reasons why Aussies gamble and what makes it so attractive? We also look at the issues Australians face while gambling and the high amount of exposure it has especially on younger Australians. We also look at potential routes to improving this current issue and what others are doing to make it possible.
Reporter: Emily Williams
Host: Oliver Walker - Peel
Producer: Julian Sardana
Series Producer: Macey Fogarty
Could poo cure you of depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder?
A growing body of research suggests that it could.
In this episode, we take a look at how the gut microbiome impacts mental health, and speak to a woman who says an experimental treatment called faecal microbial transplantation cured her bipolar 1.
Host: Freddie Moffat
Reporter: Tee Mitchell
Producer: Phoebe Miller
Series Producer: Sabrina Caires
Anecdotal stories of botched cosmetic procedures have periodically appeared in the news. Why is this issue coming to a head now? Tune in with Gabrielle Petracca and Jemina Nuredini to hear more. Series produced by Benita Miciulis and Rebecca Kazmierczak.
The AFL does not pay corporate tax under an exemption clause dating back to 1936. Is this outdated in our commercialised era of sport? Afraa Kori talks to reporter Casey McCarthy. Series produced by Benita Miciulis and Rebecca Kazmierczak.
Host Alana Fernandez speaks to reporter Cody Fowler about the uncertain future of Myanmar. Series produced by Benita Miciulis and Rebecca Kazmierczak.
Before Covid-19, Australian music was experiencing an extraordinary growth with a pipeline of talent coming from across the nation. The 2022 federal election provides a unique opportunity for Australian music to pick up from where it left off. It is an opportunity to learn from the Pandemic and build a better, more sustainable, innovative cultural asset , supporting the local artists while fostering new waves of talent and driving the changes to global music industry. By Ben Astell and Yiran Xue Series Producer India Curtain
COVID-19 introduced widespread effects, including on Australia's mental health; its impact felt through the effectiveness of mental health services during the pandemic. In our podcast, we explore the support provided to Australians during and after the pandemic, and how each party propose to strengthen our mental health system. By Ethan Benedicto and Rochelle Putnikovic Series Producer Sienna Taylor-Gibson
In the third year of the pandemic, and with an election on the horizon, the safety of aged care services has grown increasingly polarising. With both major parties reacting to the findings of the Royal Commission, and the vulnerability of Australia's elderly under COVID-19, the safety of our seniors may decide the future of the state's leadership. We talk with experts and analysts at the center of the crisis for their insight on how the partisan responses to aged care safety has rippled through the latest election period.
By Tiarna Condren, Tom Cutbush and James Dowling
Series Producer India Curtain
Originally a 2019 election commitment, passing a religious discrimination bill proved impossible for the last parliament. Controversy and criticism from all sides ultimately saw the last attempt at a bill crucified in February this year. Now, Scott Morrison has resurrected the bill in the last fortnight of the election campaign, making a renewed commitment to faith leaders. But while Anthony Albanese also supports a bill, he says concerns remain around protections for LGBTQ youth.
We spoke to Chris Duke, Convenor of the Presbyterian Church of Victoria’s Church & Nation Committee, and Cian McCullough, a gay man who had to leave his church community after coming out last year. Both say they’re the victim of rising prejudice in Australia, and want different things from a religious discrimination bill. So, how does Australia’s next government uphold the rights of all Australians with the next version of the bill? The Swanston Explainer unpacks the debate.
By Anthony Rossignuolo, Isabella Rayner and Mishelle Tongco
Series Produer Loughlin Shannon
The floods, fires and droughts that are fuelled by climate change are affecting the livelihoods of farming families and damaging supply chains. On the other hand however, farming is a major contributor to fossil fuels in our atmosphere.
Exploring what the future of climate-friendly farming looks like involves many moving factors and as the globe requires decisive action. As rural communities head to the polls, what can we do as a nation to expedite that outcome? By Bree Mcrae, Rafael Gerster and Ruby Littler Series Producer Alyssa Forato
The Uluru Statement was gifted to the Australian people as a way for them to vote on giving First Nations Australians a constitutionally enshrined voice in Parliament. That was in 2017 - half a decade on and we still haven't seen the Uluru Statement's goal achieved. We sat down with activist Thomas Mayor to discuss his role with the sacred canvas and what the post-election future might look like for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Host: Zoe De Koning Reporter: Patrick Doyle Producer: Joshua Zawa Series Producer + Editor: Harper Pestinger
Like 2008’s GFC, the Covid pandemic has been a major economic challenge for the Morrison Government. They say it’s one they’ve overcome, hailing Australia’s incredibly low unemployment as a sign of a successful economic recovery. But Labor says that’s not the full story, with incredibly high inflation creating cost of living challenges for many.
So how did we get here, what’s the real story, and what should happen next? We unpack the arguments and economic plans of both major parties with critical analysis from ANZ Bank’s Head of Australian Economics, David Plank & RMIT University Senior Lecturer in Economics, Leonora Risse.
By Declan Bailey and Joshua Allen
Series Producer & post production by Loughlin Patrick
With the unemployment rate at the lowest it's been in 50 years, it seems as though jobs are a topic that's been somewhat pushed aside. However, an increasing number of Australians now find themselves underemployed in their work. It sounds confusing; how can someone be working, but not enough to get by? And isn’t being underemployed better than being unemployed? Tune into this episode to hear what the experts think, how underemployment affects workers today and how your vote in the federal election could influence the future employment landscape of Australia. By Sienna O'Kelly, Grace O'Shea and Jack O'Shea-Ayres Series Producer Alyssa Forato
The Federal Government's humanitarian response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine included offering Ukrainian refugees safety in Australia, with special priority given to victims of the conflict. However, critics suggest that Afghan refugees were not given similar priority after the Taliban regained power last August. Does Australia's treatment of Ukrainian refugees amount to a PR exercise in the lead-up to the Federal election? We explore the political frame of this contentious issue and examine its possible impact on election night. By Adam Miller, Tom Meaden and Pete Whelan Series Producer India Curtain
There are more than two parties to keep an eye on in the 2022 Federal Election. Many Australians are feeling disenfrachised with the two major parties, and minor parties are generating support through the promotion of specific policy agendas. In this episode, we talk to leader of the United Australia Party, Craig Kelly and leader of the Greens, Adam Bandt. We also speak to voters on why they chose to make the shift towards voting for Australia's minor parties.
By Rachel Jackson and Gabriel Mills-Connolly.
National security has become a forefront topic in Australia due to the immense year of global security concerns that have appeared post-Covid. With mounting aggression toward Ukraine, tensions rising in the South China sea, and a slew of humanitarian issues both at home and abroad, National Security is an important topic leading toward the next election. Listen in to navigate National Security policies within the upcoming election and to form an understanding of which party you think will be best to protect Australia. By Nathan Singe, Amy Upton Stokes and Annelise Ireland. Series Producer Sienna Taylor-Gibson.
The 2022 Federal Election is predicted by many to be a hung parliament and a growing number of independents are major disrupstors of this once two-party system in Australia. Many of these underdogs are backed by the Climate 200, a group with the hopes of shaking up the status quo through a focus on integrity and climate change policies. We chat to the Independent candidate for Goldstein, Zoe Daniel, about her values, her relationship with Climate 200 and how independents are threatening the security of another Liberal victory. By Lulu Graham, Coco Williams and Jack Langdon Series Producer Harper Pestinger
Labor Party Leader Anthony Albenese first began his career as a politician 25 years ago but Albo admits that only in recent years, did he decide he wanted to be the next PM. With multiple election setbacks including getting COVID-19, a real threat from the independents and past failures from the Labor Party looming, is Albo’s personality and policy enough to get him over the line? With the election just 3 weeks away and this one being one of arguably high stakes for Australia and the world, who is Anthony Albenese really? Can his past help us to understand how he might act as the future PM? And does the opinions of those who know him reflect how the public know him? By Jackson Haddad, Eliza Freeman and Anthony Hibble. Series Producer Sienna Taylor-Gibson.
As this year's Federal Election draws closer, many Aussies are deciding where to place their vote and looking to the campaign trail to help them make this decision. In this podcast, we take a deep dive in to the election strategies Morrison is using to win those votes, unpacking the ways the coalition seeks to continue its term as Australia's Government. We expore the benefits of Morrison's charismatic personality and examine the ways the Federal Budget has been used to win votes.
By Tess McCracken and Cloey Nash Series Producer Harper Pestinger
As this year’s election closes in, we take a deep dive into the understandings of the voting system with a direct focus on marginal seats and how effective they are in deciding elections. We discuss the tricks used by parties to help win these ‘Swing seats’ and are given insight by our experts on all the ins and outs of them. Make sure you tune in so you are up to date with all the lingo and hot takes surrounding this years upcoming election! By Olivia Sanders, Eiddwen Jeffery and Joseph Horrigan Series Producer Alyssa Forato
Since Melbourne has left harsh COVID-19 lock downs, live music venues have struggled to recover from the pandemic. Strict capacity restrictions have live music venues on the ropes struggling to make a profit as most venues cannot operate above 30% capacity due to density limits. Venues are calling to relax density restrictions to ensure their survival.
Worsening bushfires and habitat loss have further highlighted the importance of protecting our forests. In this podcast, we will explore two perspectives on forest management. We interview Patrick Baker, professor of silviculture at the University of Melbourne, on engaging with the land by changing the forest structure and Hailey from WOTCH, a citizen science group who survey the forests for endangered species and lobby against logging.
This year, important conversations surrounding mistreatment and abuse of women in Australian parliament and broader society have been the the forefront of media coverage and citizens minds. Various media commentators have attempted to find and pin point the exact causes of this behaviour. Today, Journalist Georgie Carroll speaks to Brigita Hare about the culture in the single sex education sector and gaps in Australian sex and relationships education, to attempt to understand what contributes to and breeds a culture of misogyny in a society.
Since the beginning of lockdown in 2020, Tinder’s swipe activity peaked and members’ matches rocketed. Dating apps’ users are willing to spend extra time and money to seek relationships. Is this the new normal for dating in Australia? What are the benefits and harms of this online dating culture? Dive in with journalist Keira Wright and Esther Cheah as they discuss the changing nature of dating in Australia and how to form healthy connections through online dating apps!
The ending of the Coronavirus Supplement on March 31 is predicted to significantly affect the lives of over a million Australians who currently receive the JobSeeker payment. The federal government has introduced a permanent fifty dollar per fortnight increase to the JobSeeker rate, but this has been criticised as being grossly inadequate and will still leave these people living well below the poverty line.
Paywalls. Online resources. Print. Radio. Video. The news has evolved and will continue to evolve as long as technology evolves, meaning the journalism and media industry will adapt in order to stay viable. One way this can be seen is paywalls online media outlets have in place, in order to make consumers pay for what they are about to read/see. In this podcast episode we discuss these paywalls and whether news should be paid for, or should be free for all.
Fashion has always played a vital role in indigenous and First Nations culture and heritage, they are however sorely underrepresented in Australia’s fashion industry. In this podcast we discuss the current Australian fashion industry, and have a chat with Indigenous designer Colleen Tighe Johnson and the work she is doing promoting indigenous fashion.
Sex education in schools has become recognized as a very important and relevant topic to students' lives as it helps develop a positive and consensual mindset to sex and relationships in that age. However, current education programs rarely or do not accommodate for people living with a disability. Join Akira Bhagawanta and Sara Lilley as they dive deeply into this topic.
In a study conducted by Chris Tisdell, an education researcher for the university of Sydney, results found that 1 in 3 students decided to discontinue their university studies in 2020. Tisdell had many interesting thoughts on the subject, and in a conversation between host Blake Gaffiero and Reporter John Thompson, we explore the various reasons why students chose not to study during the pandemic, and what the future of study could look like for students after COVID.
RMIT students have faced massive disruptions to their studies over the course of the past year due to Melbourne’s recurrent lockdowns. It’s no secret that the ongoing restrictions can have a detrimental impact on mental health, so exactly what resources are being made available to students seeking mental health support?
Join Emma Fitzgerald and Carly Douglas as they look at the supply and demand problem surrounding RMIT’s student support services and question what more can be done in the face of the looming mental health crisis.
Agriculture is humankind’s oldest business; we’ve been ploughing fields and producing crops for thousands of years. But as the times change, so do the standards of our work.
How will farming become sustainable and who has to make the change? ‘Farming for the Future’ takes a deep dive into one of the many alternatives to traditional agriculture.
Join Maya and Zak as they discover farming’s next step. The trip will be steep, and the farms will be vertical.
Last month there were 4 indigenous deaths in custody within a three week period. Despite the royal commission's report, little has been done to improve the issue. Join in with journalist Mia Gardiner and Kendra Jewell’s discussion as they talk to Aunty Gracelyn Smallwood about the affect on the indigenous community.
Right now in Australia a national conversation is taking place surrounding sexual harassment and assault. In this episode, Ethan Dean investigates the realities of sexual harassment of teachers at elite private schools. He spoke to Monash's Dr George Variyan, an expert in educational leadership, to explore the processes in place and root causes of harassment by students. Produced by Lauren Formica, hosted by Joel Cripps.
Cultured or 'synthetic' meats are a cutting edge field of agriculture, with lab-grown meat already starting to enter some markets in other parts of the world. In Australia the technology is still new, and in this podcast we discuss the environmental, technological and societal impacts of this burgeoning industry. Join journalists Ada Hall and Veli Donmez as they take a deep dive in to the Cellular Agriculture industry.
Late last year, a new form of hacking was predicted to become the most popular form of cyber warfare in 2021.
Less than five months into the year, RMIT, Channel 9 and Eastern Health became some of the many organisations to be targeted by cyber criminals who are after one thing: your personal data.
Take a deep-dive into the world of cyber crime with journalists Amelia Hirst and Carla Jaeger, as we learn from the experts how pervasive and damaging this new kind of crime really is.
A story about the resurgence of microcomputers in recent years and the implications this shift might have on the broader personal computing landscape. Exploring potential applications, areas of adoption and technology as a catalyst for change with expert opinion from industry veteran with over 10 years experience in computer engineering roles.
Since the beginning of the pandemic the arts and music industry has been hit hard. With multiple lockdowns and ongoing restrictions, it has been difficult for so many iconic Melbourne music venues to maintain the vibrant scene that Melbourne has to offer.
Now, with COVID-19 being held at bay it appears that Melbourne is in a pretty position and possibly Melbourne is the live music capital of the world. So how are venues fairing now? What’s changed? And what needs to change moving forward?
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram @swan_explainer, new episodes released every Tuesday and Friday
RMIT Journalist’s new podcast The Swanston Explainer!
Join us every Tuesday and Friday as we ask questions about Melbourne and surrounds.
For updates follow us on socials @swan_explainer on Twitter and Instagram