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What does the attack on an Oscar-winning Palestinian director say about the situation in the West Bank today?

Gina Rinehart is Australia’s richest person – and as her wealth continues to rise, so does her power and influence. But what does she want? In the first episode of Guardian Australia’s new podcast series Gina, senior correspondent Sarah Martin explores the impact Rinehart could have on Australian politics. Rinehart grew up in the vast expanse of the Pilbara. To understand her story, we delve into her past and how her unique childhood under the influence of Lang Hancock shaped her

This week Barrie Cassidy and Tony Barry analyse budget week and what promises to be a tight election, with a campaign where every advantage is sought and every mistake regretted. Also on the table: when political husbands go rogue; and whether the second coming of Donald Trump could actually bolster the progressive vote See all our Australian election 2025 coverage Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast

The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, has visited the governor general to dissolve parliament and kick off a five-week election campaign. Polling day will be Saturday 3 May. Political reporter Dan Jervis-Bardy gives Reged Ahmad a quick update on what we can expect – before he heads off on the trail

With the prime minister expected to call the election at any moment, the impact of American politics on our security, economy and defence cannot be underestimated. Australian politics has been dominated by a pre-election budget, but has this overshadowed our ability to guard ourselves against a much more volatile geopolitical climate? Bridie Jabour talks with the editor, Lenore Taylor, head of newsroom, Mike Ticher and deputy editor Patrick Keneally about text leaks, tariffs, and Trump’s looming threat

In budget week, the treasurer, Jim Chalmers, sat down with Nour Haydar and political reporter Josh Butler. They discuss tax cuts, the upcoming election and why Australia needs its relationship with the US.

Big pharma is eyeing Australia’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, as they lobby Donald Trump to demand higher prices for their medicines. Anthony Albanese has promised to bring down the price of PBS-listed medicines to no more than $25 a script, while the Coalition has already pledged to match it if they return to government. Senior reporter Tory Shepherd speaks to Reged Ahmad about the politics of our affordable medicines You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

There were few surprises in tonight’s budget, but with an election around the corner the treasurer will be hoping one message gets through to voters - tax cuts. Editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and political reporter Josh Butler take us through how this budget will make you better off – and whether it will hurt or hinder Labor’s chances at the polls

Fresh questions have been raised about the environmental impact of salmon farming in Tasmania with conservation groups funding attack ads aimed at Labor. Guardian Australia’s climate and environment editor, Adam Morton, speaks to Reged Ahmad about how the controversial salmon farming industry has risen to the top of the federal election agenda

Researchers have discovered that humpback whale song is strikingly similar to human language. Dr Jenny Allen, an expert in whale song structure at Griffith University, speaks to Reged Ahmad about the years of recording, listening and analysing that led to this greater understanding of how humpback whales learn their tune

This week we are still in election limbo, so how can leaders maintain their focus during a long pseudo-campaign? Tony Barry and Barrie Cassidy examine Dutton’s surprise dual citizenship referendum idea – one that even his own party colleagues weren’t expecting – as well as the upcoming budget, Aukus and why every election campaign needs a villain Email the Barries at backtobackbarries@theguardian.com

The unofficial election campaign is about to intensify, with a pre-election budget just days away. With political messaging coming thick and fast, both parties will be trying to sell their vision to the public. But with Australian society becoming increasingly fragmented, will the same campaign strategies cut through? Bridie Jabour talks with the editor-in-chief, Lenore Taylor, and the head of newsroom, Mike Ticher, about what is dividing voters, and how these fractures are shaping our politics

Earlier this month, police revealed their belief that a caravan found with explosives on the outskirts of Sydney was a criminal con job. Previously regarded as antisemitic, the Australian federal police confirmed their findings that the caravan plot, along with a series of 13 other orchestrated attacks, were not ideologically motivated. Rather, they were allegedly carried out by organised criminals as a way to distract police and further their own causes. Nour Haydar speaks to Guardian reporter Jordyn Beazley about why pressure is now mounting on the Minns government to repeal laws rushed through after the discovery of the caravan filled with explosives.

Emma Graham-Harrison reports on the strikes carried out by Israeli military forces on dozens of targets across Gaza early on Tuesday, leaving more than 400 people dead

The demand for oversized cars in Australia is surging, with SUVs and utes increasingly becoming the family and commuter car of choice. And while they are seen as the safer choice, experts say they may be making our roads deadlier. Transport and urban affairs reporter Elias Visontay tells Reged Ahmad why size doesn’t always equal safety and whether we need to reverse our attraction to SUVs

One weekend every year, Formula One takes over Melbourne. And while F1 is riding high in Australia with a massive new audience of young people – especially women – flooding the stands, critics point to a host of issues surrounding the sport, including the environmental cost. Matilda Boseley talks to sport reporter Jack Snape on what’s behind the new golden age of motor sport and if an Australian could win the F1 Championship this year

As we approach the Australian federal election, our new podcast series is exploring how much power and influence Gina Rinehart has in this country. She is a success story, worth almost $40bn. She’s also a climate sceptic, a Trumpette, a litigant – even against her own kids – and the woman who saved Australian swimming. Reged Ahmad speaks to senior correspondent and the host of this new series, Sarah Martin, to ask: who is Gina Rinehart, and what does she want? Listen and subscribe to the Gina Podcast at theguardian.com/gina

It’s been a wild week in Australian politics. Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred delayed the election, giving us a bonus budget while the revelation a caravan filled with explosives was not part of a terror plot delivered lessons for politicians on all sides. But dominating the debate was Donald Trump’s decision to implement tariffs on Australian steel and aluminium. Tony Barry and Barrie Cassidy examine how best to manage a relationship with an unpredictable ally, look closer to home at what the WA poll means for the federal election and examine why things are looking up for Albanese

As the shadow election campaign marches inexorably towards the official one, Peter Dutton and the Coalition have started to face scrutiny. The opposition leader and his team keep contradicting themselves, ‘misspeaking’ and backtracking. Reged Ahmad talks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor, head of newsroom Mike Ticher and national news editor Jo Tovey about if Peter Dutton’s missteps and the Coalition’s policy problems will start to add up in the minds of voters

Mark Carney, the former governor of the Bank of England, has a new role – saving his country from becoming America’s 51st state. Leyland Cecco reports You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

There’s still a long road to go before a federal election and it’s already been pretty bumpy. Not only has Anthony Albanese delayed firing the starting gun because of Tropical Cyclone Alfred, we now have the prospects of a budget amid a fresh stoush between Donald Trump and Malcolm Turnbull. Political reporter Dan Jervis-Bardy tells Reged Ahmad what this latest argument between the US president and our former prime minister means for trade – and the delayed election

When then prime minister Scott Morrison signed the $US3bn Aukus agreement, it was hailed as Australia’s entry point into nuclear-power submarine status. But as Donald Trump’s second presidency unfolds, there are fears this landmark deal might never be delivered. Former foreign correspondent and Guardian reporter Ben Doherty tells Reged Ahmad how, with America an increasingly unreliable ally, doubts are rising above the waves

Michael Safi travelled to north-east Syria to speak to IS foreign fighters imprisoned there. He discovered that a change in the US administration, and USAid funding cuts, means there is a growing fear of prison breaks

This week, Barrie Cassidy and Tony Barry go back to the future to look at how history has given us an insight into what to expect in 2025 – and what lessons Anthony Albanese can learn from Bob Hawke.

In the past 20 years men have not increased the amount of housework they do, despite women’s workloads increasing. While they’re at work, women are still earning less than men. And as these inequalities continue to play out, Donald Trump’s assault on diversity and inclusion programs threatens to spill over into Australia. Bridie Jabour talks with the editor-in-chief, Lenore Taylor, the head of newsroom, Mike Ticher, and the national news editor, Josephine Tovey, about the gender pay gap, and why life for women and men is still not equal

We all deserve pleasure, so why don’t cisgendered women feel entitled to it? The orgasm gap shines a light on not only why strict social norms trap both men and women in unfulfilling sex lives, but how our current sex-positive era may not deliver the sexual liberation women have been waiting for. Guardian Australia lifestyle editor and the author of All Women Want, Alyx Gorman, explains to Reged Ahmad why too many women are having mediocre sex – and what can be done to fix it

The US is pausing military aid to Ukraine, days after the US president, Donald Trump, clashed with Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in the Oval Office. Washington DC bureau chief David Smith tells Nour Haydar why the withholding of US military support is a ‘devastating blow’ to Ukraine and what it means for a changing international order

Just last month, artist Khaled Sabsabi told Full Story he never imagined he’d be picked as Australia’s representative for the 2026 Venice Biennale. Days later, he was unceremoniously dropped by Creative Australia. The abrupt move set off a series of recriminations and left the art world reeling. Nour Haydar tells Reged Ahmad how it all unfolded and why the move has left many outraged about the precedent it sets

In his first month in office the US president has thrown science in the US into chaos, delaying projects and casting the future of research funding and jobs into doubt. To understand everything that has happened in the month since he took office and what its impact could be, Madeleine Finlay hears from science editor Ian Sample and Prof Harold Varmus, a Nobel prize winner and former director of the National Institutes of Health under Bill Clinton

This week, in Guardian Australia’s new politics podcast, Barrie Cassidy and Tony Barry examine events that disrupt election campaigns – and there is no greater disrupter than Donald Trump. Also on the table: bulk-billing policy, questions about Peter Dutton’s share purchases and the political reaction to China’s live-fire drills.

This week the Trump administration announced that it would be the White House, not the independent journalists’ association, that decides who gets to cover the president up close. The unprecedented move comes as the Associated Press continues to be barred from the Oval Office and Air Force One, after it refused to follow Trump in renaming the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. And just yesterday, Jeff Bezos, the owner of the Washington Post declared that only opinions that support ‘personal liberties’ and ‘free markets’ would be welcome in the pages of his newspaper. Bridie Jabour talks with editor-in-chief of the Guardian Katharine Viner about the increasing threat to press freedom in the wake of these attacks on the media

Within a month of returning to the White House, Donald Trump has upended decades of American foreign policy on Russia and Ukraine – and his unpredictable rhetoric and abrupt policy changes have also raised questions about US support for Taiwan against China, leaving people on the island on edge. The Guardian’s correspondent in Taipei, Helen Davidson, tells Nour Haydar what we know so far about Trump’s stance on Taiwan – and what’s at stake

Last month, 14 adult members of Australian religious sect the Saints were found guilty of the manslaughter of eight-year-old Elizabeth Struhs. Today they are due to be sentenced for their crimes. Queensland state reporter Andrew Messenger, tells Reged Ahmad about why insulin was withheld from the eight-year-old type 1 diabetic, and what we know about the sect

Jo Nemeth has lived without money for 10 years. When Guardian Australia published her story last month, some readers were critical of her decisions and described her as a ‘bludger’. Jo speaks to Reged Ahmad about living and working in a nine-person household, the importance of community and the limits of moneyless living You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Jonathan Freedland speaks to veteran US diplomat Kurt Volker and the Guardian’s US live news editor Chris Michael about Trump’s efforts to bring Putin back into the fold You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The election is right around the corner and politicians are hitting the campaign trail – but what are they really up to? Guardian Australia’s new podcast Back to Back Barries will examine the strategies behind the campaigns in the 2025 federal election with co-hosts Barrie Cassidy and Tony Barry. Barrie Cassidy has covered 14 federal elections as a political journalist, and two from the inside as a senior press secretary to then prime minister Bob Hawke. He is also the former host of ABC TV’s political discussion program Insiders. Tony Barry is a former Liberal party strategist who has worked for Christopher Pyne and Malcolm Turnbull. He now runs political research company RedBridge Group and is also a regular media commentator. Back to Back Barries will be with you every Saturday as the election fast approaches. This week they discuss whether a minority government will be good or bad for the country.

Antisemitic and Islamophobic attacks are on the rise. For months the Coalition has accused the Albanese government of making the country less safe for Jewish people. The Australian Federation of Islamic Councils has written to Anthony Albanese, calling for urgent action to tackle Islamophobia. Pre-existing dividing lines are being inflamed by our politicians, and by the media, leaving the country further polarised.Bridie Jabour talks with editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and head of newsroom Mike Ticher about how to report on the rise in acts of hate without further inflaming tensions

Predictions of an election announcement by Anthony Albanese are reaching fever pitch after the RBA announced a cut in interest rates. Many had forecast this would prompt him to name a date but the decision is not a guaranteed win for Labor, with recent polls pointing to a minority government for both parties.Political reporter Dan Jervis-Bardy speaks to Nour Haydar about how the prime minister and Peter Dutton are both eyeing the crossbench

Laws on political donations, often seen as the murky underbelly of politics, are getting a rewrite. Labor – with the help of the Coalition – has brought in new legislation but some of the changes have infuriated the crossbench. Reged Ahmad speaks to former judge and now chair of the Centre for Public Integrity Anthony Whealy on what we know about those who donate to political campaigns and whether the new laws could lock out independents

Since the failure of the voice referendum, the government has been very quiet when it comes to Indigenous affairs. But the prime minister has given an update on what he plans to do next to close the gap on outcomes between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians.As she farewells Guardian Australia, Indigenous affairs editor Lorena Allam talks to Reged Ahmad about why there’s a leadership vacuum when it comes to First Nations policy

On Tuesday the governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia will announce the board’s first – and highly anticipated – decision on interest rates for the year. Chief economist at the Australia Institute and Guardian columnist Greg Jericho tells Nour Haydar why he thinks a failure to cut rates would be misguided You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Journalist Antoinette Lattouf’s unlawful termination claim against the ABC has been heard in the federal court over the past two weeks. The lawsuit has brought former chair Ita Buttrose and the outgoing managing director, David Anderson, into public view – to give testimony about what happened in the lead-up to Lattouf being pulled off air after she posted on social media about the Israel-Gaza war. Guardian Australia’s media correspondent, Amanda Meade, and reporter Kate Lyons speak to Reged Ahmad about the key moments of the dramatic case You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

This week Anthony Albanese faced his first Trump test. The prime minister tried to carve out an exception for Australia from Donald Trump’s promised 25% tariffs on foreign steel and aluminum. And while the US president is giving the request ‘great consideration’, it won’t be the last time the Albanese government will be subjected to the whims of what has already been a chaotic and volatile presidency. Bridie Jabour talks with the editor-in-chief, Lenore Taylor, and deputy editor Patrick Keneally about how Albanese is dealing with Trump

Matildas captain and Chelsea skipper Sam Kerr’s trial for racially aggravated harassment has ended with a not guilty verdict. Sport reporter Jack Snape tells Nour Haydar what lies ahead for the football superstar now You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Has the US president won the battle against diversity, equity and inclusion? Lauren Aratani reports You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

More councils across Australia are rolling out food organics and garden organics – Fogo – collections to address the enormous problem of food waste. It’s a move that divides suburbs – with supporters pointing to the environmental benefits of removing organics from landfill and detractors claiming the mess and stench is simply not worth it. But once collected, where does all the Fogo go? How is it processed? And what is it turned into? Reporter Kate Lyons tells Reged Ahmad how a major shift in waste management is turning food waste into compost. You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport You can subscribe for free to Guardian Australia’s daily news podcast Full Story on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Very few victims of sexual assault will report the crime to police and even fewer alleged perpetrators are found guilty. A special series by Guardian Australia now looks at why victim-survivors are instead put on trial and further retraumatised by Australia’s criminal courts. Associate editor Lucy Clark and Victorian state correspondent Benita Kolovos tell Reged Ahmad what needs to be done to save a failing justice system You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

With the rise of hair transplants, many men are opting out of baldness. But why is it so hard to accept this natural part of ageing? Stuart Heritage and Rudi Zygadlo explain

Just over a week ago, Khaled Sabsabi was selected as Australia’s pick for the Venice Biennale.Within days, the prominent artist’s appointment had been withdrawn, after political and media pressure.Nour Haydar spoke to the artist in the days before Creative Australia made the abrupt decision to rescind his appointment. You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The perks of public office were cast into the spotlight this week after the NSW transport minister, Jo Haylen, was forced to resign. The Labor veteran used her ministerial driver as a chauffeur over the Australia day long weekend. But Haylen is not the first state or federal member of government to lose their job over the use of the public purse. Bridie Jabour talks with Guardian Australia’s editor-in-chief, Lenore Taylor, and the head of newsroom, Mike Ticher, about why politicians find it so hard to pass the pub test Please fill out our audience survey here: theguardian.com/fullstorysurvey

The Guardian diplomatic editor, Patrick Wintour, talks through Donald Trump’s latest moves on the world stage, from proposing that the US takes over Gaza to starting trade wars with America’s biggest trading partners

After a long summer break, politicians are back in the nation’s capital for what could be the last sitting fortnight of the 47th parliament. And while the cost of living is the big focus, with the government using question time to argue against the Coalition’s promise to deliver tax breaks on the working lunch, other issues such as gambling reform and hate speech laws are also at the centre of the debate. Political reporter Dan Jervis-Bardy tells Nour Haydar what’s on the government’s agenda leading into an election year • Please fill out our audience survey here: theguardian.com/fullstorysurvey

Australia imported goods from companies blacklisted in the US for alleged links to forced labour of Uyghur people in China, according to the findings of an exclusive Guardian investigation. Guardian Australia’s chief investigations correspondent Christopher Knaus tells Nour Haydar how imports have been linked to allegations of forced labour

Last week a caravan laden with explosives was found on the outskirts of Sydney. Police said there were indications the explosives would be used in an antisemitic attack, with the potential to cause a ‘mass casualty event’. Reged Ahmad talks to reporters Caitlin Cassidy and Jordyn Beazley about what happened after a caravan filled with explosives was found on a quiet Sydney street Please fill out our audience survey here: theguardian.com/fullstorysurvey

As the heat hits harder, Australians head to public swimming pools to cool off. They’re also an important place to learn to swim. But going for a dip is harder for some, depending on their postcode. Reged Ahmad talks to climate and environment reporter Petra Stock and Victorian state correspondent Benita Kolovos

What do Greenlanders make of the US president’s interest in their island? Miranda Bryant reports You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The launch of a new chatbot by Chinese artificial intelligence company DeepSeek triggered a plunge in US tech stocks as it appeared to perform as well as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and other AI models but using fewer resources. Helen Pidd speaks to Robert Booth, the Guardian’s UK technology editor, about how DeepSeek did this, the model’s security and censorship and why the US AI industry has been shaken by the launch

Peter Dutton wants to slash thousands of government jobs in an Elon Musk-style purge of the public service. But this is not the first time an Australian politician has promised cost-cutting before an election and we don’t know much about the potential policy or its consequences. Bridie Jabour talks with the editor-in-chief, Lenore Taylor, and deputy editor Patrick Keneally about the threats to the public service and finding facts during an election campaign

Around the world, soaring inflation has pushed voters to turn on incumbent governments. But one country bucked the trend – Mexico, where the leftwing Morena party recorded a landslide victory. The key to its success? A policy platform built on minimum salary rises, labour reforms and price controls on staples. So are there lessons to be learnt from the country’s success for Anthony Albanese’s Labor party? Senior business reporter Jonathan Barrett tells Nour Haydar why so many governments didn’t survive high inflation, and what Labor could learn from the country that bucked the trend You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Donald Trump’s decision to seat super-rich tech barons Mark Zuckerberg, Tim Cook, Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk and Sundar Pichai in front of his own members of cabinet at his inauguration has sent a strong signal about who holds power in America now. Technology editor Blake Montgomery tells Reged Ahmad why the ‘broligarchs’ have become just as important to the new president as he is to them

Blowing the whistle on corruption, wrongdoing and unethical behaviour can come at a huge personal cost to those who choose to speak out. Kieran Pender, associate legal director at the Human Rights Law Centre, tells Nour Haydar why more needs to be done to ensure workers who speak up about wrongdoing are protected

As America’s second-largest city reels from massive fires blown in from the bush, Australians are looking for lessons on how to stop it happening to us. David Bowman, a pyrogeography and fire science professor from the University of Tasmania, tells Reged Ahmad why he thinks we need to rethink how we design our cities and our homes to live with fires

The Oxford English Dictionary announced its word of the year at the end of 2024: ‘brain rot’. The term relates to the supposedly negative effects of consuming social media content, but it struck a chord more widely with many of us who feel we just don’t have the mental capacity we once did. Gloria Mark, a professor of informatics at the University of California, Irvine, has been studying our waning attention spans for 20 years. She tells Madeleine Finlay why she believes our powers of concentration are not beyond rescue, and reveals her top tips for finding focus Please fill out our audience survey here: theguardian.com/fullstorysurvey

It was hard to imagine a more unlikely place for horror to unfold than a community centre holding a Taylor Swift-themed dance class in the sleepy seaside town of Southport. So when three little girls were murdered and eight other children and two adults viciously stabbed by a 17-year-old boy, it seemed incomprehensible. But before the shock could wear off, misinformation and lies about who had unleashed this misery began to spread. The result was days of racist riots and violence. Josh Halliday, the Guardian’s North of England editor, covered the attacks, the riots and now the court case of Axel Rudakubana as he was sentenced to 52 years in prison. On Monday, as the jury was expected to be sworn in, the now 18-year-old Rudakubana shocked everyone by pleading guilty to all the charges he was faced with. And this week the judge gave him a life sentence.

As an election year begins, both the prime minister Anthony Albanese and the opposition leader Peter Dutton have started laying out their priorities and setting the tone for the upcoming election. But with Donald Trump returning to the White House, and as horrific antisemitic attacks continue to dominate our politics, both leaders have found themselves battling for headlines. Bridie Jabour talks with editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and head of newsroom Mike Ticher about whose pre-election message is cutting through and connecting with voters Please fill out our audience survey here: theguardian.com/fullstorysurvey

As the opposition leader, Peter Dutton, warms up for the federal election campaign, he’s quick to tell voters he’s a strong man in politics who’s tough on crime – a message he’s kept consistent since his maiden speech. Guardian Australia’s Queensland correspondent, Ben Smee, and political reporter Sarah Basford Canales tell Nour Haydar the Coalition’s campaign centres on culture wars and crime Please fill out our audience survey here: theguardian.com/fullstorysurvey

Donald Trump has been sworn in as the 47th president of the United States and has vowed to ‘put America first’ in his inauguration ceremony at the US Capitol rotunda. The chief Washington correspondent, David Smith, tells Reged Ahmad what it was like inside Trump’s inauguration ceremony and what the new president’s executive orders reveal about his populist priorities for his second term Please fill out our audience survey here: theguardian.com/fullstorysurvey

For over a year the flash of bombs and deafening sound of explosions have filled the night sky over Gaza. Now, finally, there is a ceasefire. Nour Haydar speaks to Mostafa Rachwani about how the deal has brought the refugee community in Australia some relief but why, after 15 months of war, many are fearful that the peace won’t last

Multivitamins offer the promise of guiding us to ultimate health. But are all vitamins created equal, and is there proof behind the wellness claims? Reged Ahmad talks with science writer Donna Lu about the multi-promises of multivitamins

The Guardian’s Jerusalem correspondent Bethan McKernan explains the pact reached between Israel and Hamas to halt fighting You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The federal government is promising $3bn to improve the national broadband network – but is this enough to fix Australia’s internet? Reged Ahmad talks to reporter Josh Taylor about why the NBN remains expensive and slow compared with many other countries’ internet and what can be done to make it better

Gabrielle Canon reports from Los Angeles on the wildfires destroying homes and communities You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

When 26-year-old Hady Habib stepped out on to court 13 at Melbourne Park on Sunday, he was already making history even before defeating his opponent. Later today, he will face the world No 14, Ugo Humbert, in the second round of the Australian Open. Nour Haydar speaks to the trailblazing tennis player about how his success has been a source of celebration for Lebanese Australians and his family at home, who have endured months of war and devastation

He’s not even US president yet, but Donald Trump is already dominating the headlines – from his scot-free sentencing to his talk of invading Greenland. His term is set to be full of surprises, but is it what his supporters voted for? Reged Ahmad talks to Washington DC bureau chief David Smith about the noisy lead-up to Trump’s second go, and what to expect in the first days of his rule

There is still no date for the federal election but Anthony Albanese has switched to campaign mode, hitting electorates across Queensland, the Northern Territory and Western Australia all in one week. With the prime minister’s approval rating sliding, a potential interest-rate cut on the horizon and Donald Trump reclaiming the keys to the White House, Nour Haydar talks to political reporter Dan Jervis-Bardy about the events that could shape federal politics this year

How does a hugely successful entrepreneur and parent find the energy, creativity and time to write a novel? Zoë Foster Blake tells Bridie Jabour how she makes the most of 90 minutes and where she starts You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

It’s obvious there are many benefits to open water swimming, but knowing how to prepare and where to begin can feel overwhelming. Founder of the Coogee Bay Cuttlefish swim club Alice Marklew takes Matilda Boseley through practical tips to jumping (safely) into the big blue You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

For more than 20 years Dr Melissa Kang helped Australian teenagers navigate puberty with her much-loved column Dolly Doctor. Kang speaks to Reged Ahmad about why it’s more important than ever to have that conversation You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Do you find yourself replaying an important conversation in your head and thinking - ‘why did I say that?’ Journalist and Pulitzer prize-winning author Charles Duhigg found himself at a similar impasse when he had to manage a project and struggled to connect with members of his team. So he learned everything he could about communication. Duhigg tells Reged Ahmad about the simple things anyone can do to improve their communication skills and why being a good listener is key You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Whether we like it or not, some of us will have to host friends and family at home this holiday season. Karima Hazim, co-author of cookbook Sofra: Lebanese Recipes to Share, takes Reged Ahmad through her essential hacks for putting on a spread to impress – without the stress You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Whether you’ve been passed over for promotion or dumped by the love of your life, moving on from ‘no’ can be tough. Actor and writer Miranda Tapsell tells Reged Ahmad how she’s dealt with rejection throughout her career and how setbacks have made her stronger You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Fashion editor and consultant Zara Wong was attracted to the world of fashion from a young age. After successful stints at Harpers Bazaar, Vogue and Aje Collective she now works as a consultant and also produces her own fashion substack newsletter – Screenshot This. The fashion expert tells Matilda Boseley why you should ignore the rules and not try too hard You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Thinking of breaking up with the booze? Addiction specialist and psychiatrist Xavier Mulenga tells Bridie Jabour the common reasons people think they can’t quit and the steps you can take to reduce your alcohol intake You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The yes campaigner and author has had a hard year. After a heartbreaking voice to parliament referendum result and sustained attacks from the media, Thomas Mayo had to pick up the pieces and find a way forward. He tells Reged Ahmad how he found light in a dark time You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

How do you tell a story that makes people laugh and what do you do when the joke lands flat? James Colley, a comedian and writer on ABC’s Gruen, tells Reged Ahmad why comics love a whinge and how he turns his life into laughs You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O Henderson have dominated the breakfast slot in Sydney for almost two decades. But their show’s recent expansion into the Melbourne market has tanked. And while they have a reputation for crude language and stunts, the conversations that are broadcast continue to raise questions about how the show skirts decency standards. Senior correspondent Sarah Martin and reporter Kate Lyons tell Nour Haydar how Australia’s highest-rating radio program gets around broadcast regulations You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The Shincheonji church is an international Christian sect which started in South Korea. But the group is being accused of bizarre recruitment strategies at a number of Australian universities and former members have made allegations of ‘coercive control’ tactics that include love bombing and sleep deprivation. Medical editor Melissa Davey speaks to Reged Ahmad about the experiences of families of current members, as well as former members, about life on the inside You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Blue whales are the largest animals to have ever lived but they were once hunted to the brink of extinction. The international community only agreed to stop hunting them in 1965 when they numbered fewer than 200. Now scientists are using new methods to learn whether the number of blue whales in the wild is increasing – and they are seeing and hearing promising signs. Reporter Luca Ittimani speaks to marine mammal acoustician Brian Miller about the whale’s Antarctic resurgence You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

What happens when the human body is treated like a machine – pushed to its limit – for the sake of a company’s efficiency standards? Former and current staff at Woolworths allege that the supermarket has been cracking down in a way they describe as ‘bullying’ and unsafe, something the company’s supply chain arm denies.Reged Ahmad asks investigations reporter Ariel Bogle if Woolworths’ warehouse tactics are putting employees’ health and safety at risk

For many years political leaders have condemned violence against women and expressed platitudes about the need for change. But government policies to reduce gender-based violence have failed and frontline services say they are severely underfunded. Journalist and coercive control educator Jess Hill speaks to Nour Haydar about the major paradigm shift that governments still need to make

This year the gap between the rich and the poor widened in Australia – as the housing crisis deepened and the cost of living hit hard. But while there were moments of despair, there were also times of joy that may give us reason to be hopeful for 2025. Bridie Jabour talks with editor in chief Lenore Taylor, head of newsroom Mike Ticher and national news editor Jo Tovey about the highs and lows of 2024 and and what to expect next year

Prince Andrew is in trouble again, this time for meeting a businessman who has denied spying for China. In parliament, it has sparked fears about how far the British establishment has been infiltrated by spies. In Beijing, there has been outrage. For Prince Andrew, it has led to him missing Christmas dinner at Sandringham with the rest of the royal family. It is fair to say the accusation that the Chinese businessman Yang Tengbo has been spying for China has caused a serious stir. Dan Sabbagh and David Pegg report

The opposition leader has finally released the Coalition’s costings for its proposal to build seven nuclear power stations in Australia. Peter Dutton says the plan will cost tens of billions of dollars less than Labor’s transition to renewables. But experts say the plan is not credible and fails to address the climate crisis. Climate and environment editor Adam Morton tells Nour Haydar why the plan doesn’t stack up.

This episode originally ran on Monday 19 June 2023. Theodore ‘Ted’ Kaczynski died at the federal prison in Butner, North Carolina, last year at the age of 81. Known as the Unabomber, Kaczynski waged a 17-year bombing campaign from an isolated shack in the Montana wilderness before finally being caught in 1996. One of those who helped apprehend Kaczynski was former FBI agent Jim Fitzgerald. He tells Michael Safi that the arrest was only possible after the publication of the bomber’s manifesto in the Washington Post. It was those words that were recognised by Kaczynski’s brother, who took his concerns to the authorities

This summer Australian politicians are being encouraged to read more widely on the history of Palestine. Five books were sent to all 227 federal MPs and senators as part of a campaign backed and funded by dozens of Australia’s most prominent authors. And in the bundle is one work of fiction – a novella by a Sydney-based author.Nour Haydar speaks with author of The Sunbird Sara Haddad about the summer reading for MPs initiative, Palestine, and writing as activism

Last Friday, a large blaze engulfed a synagogue in Melbourne — which authorities are treating as an act of terrorism. It prompted the federal government to set up a special taskforce to investigate antisemitism in Australia. But in the aftermath, Peter Dutton was accused of ‘disgusting’ political point-scoring by escalating the Coalition’s already growing criticism of the government’s response and by attacking Jewish Labor MP Josh Burns.Bridie Jabour talks to the head of newsroom, Mike Ticher, and the national news editor, Jo Tovey, about Peter Dutton’s strongman politics and why he is stoking culture wars

Last week South Korea’s president, Yoon Suk Yeol, shocked the world when he declared martial law. Although the decision was reversed hours later, Yoon had taken the country into a new and unnerving chapter in its young democracy. Reged Ahmad speaks to Seoul-based journalist Raphael Rashid about why the streets have now exploded with anger and whether the country can come back from the brink

The Northern Territory coroner has handed down findings in an inquest into the horrific domestic violence deaths of four Aboriginal women. The landmark report exposed systemic failings and made 35 recommendations aimed at stemming what the coroner called an “epidemic of violence”.Nour Haydar speaks to Guardian Australia’s Indigenous affairs editor, Lorena Allam, and Indigenous affairs reporter, Sarah Collard, about the four women at the centre of the inquest and the coroner’s findings

Foreign correspondent William Christou travels to Damascus, hours after Syria’s decades-long dictator Bashar al-Assad is ousted from power, and asks whether the country’s 13-year civil war has finally come to an end Read More: Who are the main actors in the fall of the regime in Syria? I wept and wept as I watched the Syrian regime fall. At last, I have a home again

As rents continue to increase at alarming rates and more Australians are priced out of the housing market, the Guardian put the call out to readers for their experiences from inside the housing crisis. The response was overwhelming. Reporter Daisy Dumas tells Reged Ahmad what 150 readers have to say about how the pressures of renting and buying have affected their income, relationships and health

What if you could take a pill or a shot that reduced your blood alcohol level and made you feel better in the morning? That’s the promise of a range of wellness products aiming to be the next big hangover antidote. But what exactly are hangovers, and which methods of preventing them are backed by science? Madeleine Finlay speaks to Dr Sally Adams, an alcohol researcher and associate professor of psychology at the University of Birmingham

A story splashed across the front of News Corp’s biggest-selling tabloid newspapers this week was all about gas. We need to ‘step on the gas’, the papers said, to avoid higher bills and blackouts. But the ‘special report’ was actually ‘proudly sponsored’ by the fossil fuel industry.Bridie Jabour talks to Guardian Australia’s editor, Lenore Taylor, and deputy editor Patrick Keneally about how the mining industry – and the media – are trying to shape the election agenda

Despite saying multiple times that he would never do it, the US president, Joe Biden, has now pardoned his only surviving son. Hunter Biden was due to face sentencing later this month for his conviction on federal gun charges and a separate tax case. The decision, as America prepares for the return of the president-elect, Donald Trump, has left some Democratic lawmakers frustrated and disappointed. Reged Ahmad speaks to the Guardian’s Washington DC bureau chief David Smith about the ‘heartfelt hypocrisy’ of Biden’s balancing act between country and family, and why he sees Biden’s controversial move as a vote of no confidence in America’s institutions as he walks out the door You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Parliament has wrapped for 2024 and politicians are now back in their electorates for the summer. Labor ended the year on a high, striking deals to pass more than 30 pieces of legislation through the Senate in just one day. And while the sitting year is over, speculation is still running hot over when the prime minister will call the federal election. Nour Haydar speaks to chief political correspondent Paul Karp about what the government achieved – and compromised – in the final frenetic sitting day, and what Anthony Albanese could now be weighing up as he decides when voters will head to the polls

In the early hours of 17 May 2023, Senior Constable Kristian White shot 95-year-old Clare Nowland with his Taser in a Cooma nursing home. Last week, after a high-profile trial in which he pleaded not guilty, a jury found White guilty of the manslaughter of the great-grandmother. He now awaits sentencing. Reged Ahmad speaks to reporter Jordyn Beazely about the unresolved questions surrounding how police officers interact with vulnerable people

The conversation about fluoride’s health benefits has exploded after a US federal toxicology report, court ruling and independent scientific review all called for updated risk-benefit analysis. Ian Sample hears from Catherine Carstairs, professor of history at the University of Guelph in Canada, about how attitudes to fluoridation have evolved, and Oliver Jones, professor of chemistry at RMIT University, Melbourne, about where the science stands today You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

A heatwave has hit eastern Australia. As Sydneysiders struggled through the heat, the premier, Chris Minns, asked residents to cut back on their power use to prevent parts of the city from plunging into a blackout. And while the grid strained to keep up with demand, an all-too-familiar debate erupted about the transition to renewable energy.Bridie Jabour talks to Guardian Australia’s head of newsroom, Mike Ticher, and deputy editor Patrick Keneally about the challenges the Labor government faces when selling its climate credentials during a cost-of-living crisis

The remaining members of the Bali Nine – Scott Rush, Matthew Norman, Si-Yi Chen, Martin Stephens and Michael Czugaj – are all serving life sentences in jail. But now there is a real possibility the five men, arrested in 2005 for attempting to smuggle heroin out of the resort island, may finally return to Australia to serve their time here. Guardian Australia reporter Ben Doherty is a former foreign correspondent covering south-east Asia, and Kate Lamb was a senior Indonesia correspondent before joining as an international editor in Sydney. Both reporters reflect on what has happened nearly 20 years since the arrests and examine the delicate politics behind bringing the remaining members back to Australia.

When climate and energy policy is in the news, it’s not always easy to decipher what’s accurate and what’s not. There can be straw man arguments, false equivalencies and misleading claims. An interview with Dick Smith broadcast around Australia on a long-running ABC radio program earlier this month caused environment and climate correspondent Graham Readfearn to raise an eyebrow. He examines the millionaire businessman’s claims about renewable energy – and why his comments matter

Holly Bowles and Bianca Jones’s devastated families have pleaded with Laos authorities to get to the bottom of a suspected mass methanol poisoning tragedy. The Australians, both 19, are among six foreign tourists who have died in Laos. It’s not clear how the tourists came to ingest the suspected poison, but their deaths have started a conversation about the possible dangers of bootlegged liquor. Victorian state reporter Adeshola Ore tells Reged Ahmad what we know happened in Vang Vieng and why the parents of the teenagers who died hope their deaths are ‘not in vain’ You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Everyone in US politics has an opinion on why the Democrats lost the election, and finger-pointing within the party is rife. As the debate rages, Jonathan Freedland will be speaking to various experts about what the party got wrong – and how it can bounce back. This week he meets James Carville, the veteran political strategist who helped get Bill Clinton elected twice You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

With only one parliamentary sitting week left this year, the ALP and the Coalition have their sights set on the upcoming federal election.Reged Ahmad talks to Guardian Australia’s editor Lenore Taylor, deputy editor Patrick Keneally and head of newsroom Mike Ticher about how the major parties are not only looking forward – they’re also looking back at the US election and whether there are lessons for them in Donald Trump’s big win

Kyle Sandilands and Jackie O Henderson have dominated the breakfast slot in Sydney for almost two decades. But their show’s recent expansion into the Melbourne market has tanked. And while they have a reputation for crude language and stunts, the conversations that are broadcast continue to raise questions about how the show skirts decency standards. Senior correspondent Sarah Martin and reporter Kate Lyons tell Nour Haydar how Australia’s highest-rating radio program gets around broadcast regulations

Big money and politics seem to go hand in hand, but the government wants to pass new electoral reform laws that they say will keep cashed-up donors out of federal politics. But the detail has independents and minor parties crying foul.Guardian Australia chief political correspondent Paul Karp speaks to Reged Ahmed about why Labor and the Coalition have been accused of cooking up a ‘secret deal’ on new electoral rules

In the lead-up to his return to the White House, president-elect Donald Trump has quickly assembled a new team of loyalists including Elon Musk, a Fox News host and a vaccine sceptic. While his cabinet nominees will still need approval from Congress, the controversial list is already raising alarm bells. Washington DC bureau chief David Smith speaks to Nour Haydar about what these latest announcements tell us about Trump’s plans for his second term

At a moment when the world feels like a particularly unsettling place, Guardian podcast Science Weekly is asking what it is that makes humans happy – and how can we bring more happiness into our lives? In episode one of this two-part series, Ian Sample asks what makes a country happy. Johannes Eichstaedt, assistant professor of psychology and human-centred AI at Stanford University, explains why the Nordic countries often rank highly in the annual World Happiness Report and what we can learn if we look beyond them

Guardian Australia’s political editor, Karen Middleton, speaks to the federal housing and homelessness minister, Clare O’Neil.They discuss the housing crisis, whether a double dissolution is on the horizon, and the role housing will play in the upcoming federal election

The Guardian is no longer posting on Elon Musk’s X. The move comes after Musk’s hands-off approach has allowed lies and hate speech to spread on the platform formerly known as Twitter. The world’s richest man has also become increasingly aligned with the US president-elect, Donald Trump, often using the now toxic social media site to shape political discourse.Bridie Jabour talks to Guardian Australia’s editor-in-chief, Lenore Taylor, and deputy editor Patrick Keneally about the future of news online, and why the Guardian has quit X

As a privately owned company, Aldi rarely gets the sort of scrutiny faced by its listed competitors Coles and Woolworths, which are required to provide regular public disclosures including profit updates. But this week the public got a rare glimpse into the supermarket chain’s profits and strategy as its executives underwent questioning by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. Senior business reporter Jonathan Barrett tells Nour Haydar how the German company makes $12bn in annual revenue and why it rejects online shopping. You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Dental care in Australia is largely privatised and nearly always expensive. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, almost one in five adults delay or don’t see a dentist due to cost. For those who can access the public system, staff are often overstretched and the long wait times mean crucial appointments come far too late. Guardian Australia health reporter Natasha May speaks to Reged Ahmed about how the perfect smile is a privilege increasingly available only to the wealthy. You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Will richer nations find the climate finance desperately needed by developing countries? Damian Carrington reports

Last week the prime minister delivered a pitch to young Australians: Labor will slash their student debt by 20% next financial year if the Albanese government is re-elected. The surprise announcement is part of a major federal government overhaul designed to boost access to education and address ‘intergenerational unfairness’. But while the move has been welcomed by many, it has also been widely criticised for not doing enough to help students as well as unfairly penalising all taxpayers. Chief economist at the Australia Institute and Guardian columnist Greg Jericho gives his take on why Labor’s plan isn’t perfect but why the feigned outrage over ‘fairness’ is wrong You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Guardian Australia’s political editor Karen Middleton speaks with Arthur Sinodinos AO, former ambassador to the US, chair of the Australia Practice at the Asia Group, as well as a former Liberal senator and adviser to John Howard. They talk about why Americans voted as they did, what the outcome means for Australia’s upcoming election, and how big a threat Donald Trump’s plans are to the Australian economy and security in the region

Countries around the world are coming to terms with what a second Donald Trump presidency will mean for their climate policies, trade and economies. In Australia political leaders will be drawing their own conclusions about what the American result means for their own election campaigns.Bridie Jabour talks to the editor-in-chief, Lenore Taylor, the head of newsroom, Mike Ticher, and the national news editor, Josephine Tovey, about how Trump won and how the media will cover his presidency

Americans have made their decision and they have sent Donald Trump back to the White House. Guardian reporters tell the story of the night from around the United States

At the time of recording, late on Wednesday afternoon Australian time, Donald Trump has won the swing states of Georgia and North Carolina, the only two of the seven swing states called in the race so far. It is not known who has won, but the former president is doing better than many expected. Guardian Australia’s UK/US site editor, Jonathan Yerushalmy, tells Reged Ahmad whether Kamala Harris can find a path to victory and when we can expect a result

In just a few hours, polls will close in what is being called the most consequential election in US history. With pre-polling showing the race is too close to call, it is not known whether the result will immediately be known, with some analysts saying it could take days for a winner to be declared. Reporter and live blogger Helen Sullivan tells Nour Haydar how she plans to navigate the results – and what to look out for as the count begins You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Americans are on the eve of election day. The race remains too tight to call and all eyes are on the seven swing states that will determine the outcome. Washington DC bureau chief David Smith tells Reged Ahmad about how the US is poised to choose between two realities You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The Harris campaign is making a special effort to reach out to young voters. So how important will they be? The Guardian democracy reporter Alice Herman travels to rallies, campuses and college bars in Wisconsin to get a sense of whether young voters can swing the US election

Ahead of the 2024 US election, Madeleine Finlay speaks to climate activist and author Bill McKibben to find out what a win for Donald Trump could mean for the environment and the world’s climate goals Polls tracker: Trump v Harris latest national averages

Just two weeks ago, the prime minister was engulfed in a crisis of optics when he bought a $4.3m property in middle of a housing crisis. Now he is under pressure once more for allegedly seeking free Qantas flight upgrades directly from then CEO Alan Joyce while serving as transport minister and opposition leader – allegations he has denied. Reged Ahmad speaks to political editor Karen Middleton about the politics of perks and why the PM is facing a possible perception problem

What happens when the human body is treated like a machine – pushed to its limit – for the sake of a company’s efficiency standards? Former and current staff at Woolworths allege that the supermarket has been cracking down in a way they describe as ‘bullying’ and unsafe, something the company’s supply chain arm denies.Reged Ahmad asks investigations reporter Ariel Bogle if Woolworths’ warehouse tactics are putting their workers’ health and safety at risk

PFAS, more commonly known as “forever chemicals”, are a group of chemicals that have been used in manufacturing since the 1950s. They’re found in everything from waterproof clothing to electrical devices, and they take decades to degrade. There are thousands of different types, and now research has shown that some of them may cause cancer, prompting the government to recommend that the amount of certain chemicals allowed in our drinking water should be reduced. Matilda Boseley asks science reporter Donna Lu whether these chemicals are as scary as their name suggests and how much of a risk they pose to human health

Independent senator for Victoria Lidia Thorpe’s protest before King Charles in the great hall of Parliament House last week caught news attention around the globe. While it prompted a few reactions, it also started a conversation about the British monarchy’s role in the lasting legacy of colonisation for First Nations people. Reged Ahmad speaks to political editor Karen Middleton about why Australians can’t stop talking about the royal protest and what it means for Thorpe’s role as a senator You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Harry Shukman of the anti-racism group Hope Not Hate went undercover to expose how some of the wealthiest and most powerful people see race. He tells Michael Safi what he found

Why is the tech billionaire owner of X spending millions on helping the Republican campaign? What does he get out of it? What’s at stake for him if Kamala Harris wins the US election on 5 November? Jonathan Freedland speaks to the Guardian US democracy reporter focused on misinformation, Rachel Leingang

Oritsé Williams of JLS and the Guardian’s head rock and pop critic Alexis Petridis reflect on the singer’s extraordinary success and his struggles with the fame that came with it

In Queensland, the state election has been dominated by one word: abortion. It follows an anti-abortion bill in South Australia that would force women seeking an abortion after 27 weeks and six days – an extremely rare occurrence – to be induced to deliver the child alive, and either to keep it or put it up for adoption. The bill was narrowly defeated by just one vote. As this conversation infiltrates state politics, conservatives have already begun putting it on the national agenda.Bridie Jabour talks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and national news editor Josephine Tovey about what the consequences will be when we turn abortion into a culture war

In just under two weeks, Americans will choose their next president. Will it be Kamala Harris, a former prosecutor and the current vice-president, who would become the first woman and woman of colour to be president? Or will it be Donald Trump, a convicted felon and a legally defined sexual predator? Reged Ahmad speaks to Washington DC bureau chief David Smith about the stark choice facing voters and why no one can predict what will happen on 5 November

The Shincheonji church is an international Christian sect which started in South Korea. But the group is being accused of bizarre recruitment strategies at a number of Australian universities and former members have made allegations of ‘coercive control’ tactics that include love bombing and sleep deprivation. Medical editor Melissa Davey speaks to Reged Ahmad about the experiences of families of current members, as well as former members, about life on the inside of this alleged ‘doomsday cult’

A spate of more than a dozen separate attacks on gay men across Australia since July has sparked concern among the LGBTQ+ community. In some cases – but not all – police have alleged homophobic comments were made and several of the assaults were filmed. Reporter Josh Taylor speaks to Tamsin Rose about concerns some people online are promoting ‘methods of attack’ and how men are being targeted after agreeing to meetings via apps such as Grindr

Blue whales are the largest animals to have ever lived but they were once hunted to the brink of extinction. The international community only agreed to stop hunting them in 1965 when they numbered fewer than 200. Now scientists are using new methods to learn whether the number of blue whales in the wild is increasing – and they are seeing and hearing promising signs. Reporter Luca Ittimani speaks to marine mammal acoustician Brian Miller about the whale’s Antarctic resurgence You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The Harris campaign, which has been praised for how it has managed to reach out to women, is now having to balance their attention and pitch some policies that would appeal to men. But is it too little too late? Jonathan Freedland speaks to Richard Reeves, the president of the American Institute for Boys and Men, and Gloria Oladipo, a breaking news reporter for Guardian US, about why men could decide this year’s election and why both campaigns might be taking them for granted You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Since the beginning of its war in Gaza, Israel has been hunting one man in particular – Hamas chief Yahya Sinwar. For a year, Israeli soldiers have used drones, radar and ground troops to try to find him, while in Gaza the death toll among Palestinians grew unimaginably in the conflict Sinwar helped to ignite. Then came the news he had been killed. How could his death change the conflict in the Middle East? Julian Borger reports.

This week, news broke that Anthony Albanese bought a slice of paradise set on the clifftops of the NSW Central Coast. Forking out $4.3m on a property created some bruising headlines for the prime minister, but did he actually do anything wrong?Bridie Jabour talks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor, deputy editor Patrick Keanelly and national news editor Jo Tovey about what the anger around the PM’s beach house says about the state of the housing crisis

On Friday, King Charles will touch down in Australia. The six-day tour will take in Sydney and Canberra and is the first visit by a sitting monarch in 13 years. But not everyone is excited. Reporter Kate Lyons tells Matilda Boseley on how the king’s visit has reignited the republic debate – even if the government seems to have given up on the idea

One of the Albanese government’s most senior female advisers claims she has been barred from her office and effectively sacked. Richard Marles’ chief of staff, Jo Tarnawsky, alleges that in a 45-minute phone call on 30 April – after she raised a complaint about other staff behaviour – her employer told her to find another job – and further alleges that was not fair. Political editor Karen Middleton speaks to Reged Ahmad about why Tarnawsky decided to share her story and what this all means for parliament’s already maligned workplace culture You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

As early voting kicks off in the sunshine state, Labor is hoping progressive cost-of-living policies such as 50c public transport fares will help them cling on to another term. But every poll is showing the Liberal National opposition is on track to win the state election on 26 October. Queensland correspondent Ben Smee speaks with Tamsin Rose about how voters are being pulled to the right and the left by both major parties You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

A year ago on 14 October, as the results of Australia’s 2023 Indigenous voice to parliament referendum rolled in, many people were left devastated. After years of painstaking work and consultation, Australians had resoundingly voted no to enshrining a First Nations permanent advisory body in our constitution. But the campaign is far from over. One year on, Uluru youth dialogue co-chairs Allira Davis and Bridget Cama tell Reged Ahmad why they haven’t given up on constitutional recognition for First Nations Australians

Whoever gets into the White House – Donald Trump or Kamala Harris – they will need the two chambers of Congress to align with their values to get a lot of what they want to achieve done. And the race for the Senate is really hotting up. This week Jonathan Freedland speaks to Jessica Taylor, Senate and governors editor for the Cook Political Report, about whether Senate Democrats can defend their narrow control over the upper chamber, and what happens if the person who wins the White House doesn’t see eye-to-eye with those in power in Congress

This week the Albanese government hosted what has been billed as a “global nature-positive summit” in Sydney. When announced nearly two years ago by the environment minister, Tanya Plibersek, it was hoped the event would highlight Labor’s leadership in developing new nature laws. But the criticisms have been rolling in, with environment advocates saying the summit is all talk and no action. Guardian Australia’s climate and environment editor, Adam Morton, tells Reged Ahmad about the protests, policies and promises made at the government’s environment summit this week

When ChatGPT entered the world nearly two years ago, universities wondered whether they would survive the threat. But now they have found that artificial intelligence may actually help improve higher education for both students and staff. Higher education reporter Caitlin Cassidy explains to Matilda Boseley how universities are embracing AI and integrating this rapidly evolving technology into modern university life • You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

This week marks the anniversary of the 7 October attacks by Hamas in Israel and the start of Israel’s war in Gaza. One year on, and the conflict is deeply and personally felt here in Australia, by so many who grieve for the lives lost. And it has also redrawn domestic political faultlines. Political editor Karen Middleton tells Reged Ahmad how differing views of the Israel-Gaza war have percolated up into our political debate

With 10 waste-to-energy power plants under development across the country, conservationists say the ‘incineration industry’ is trying to gain a foothold in Australia. Climate and environment reporter Petra Stock tells Reged Ahmad about whether the trend will help or harm the environment You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

When racist chants rang out and homes, businesses and hotels housing asylum seekers were attacked, for a week in July and August English towns and cities seemed on the brink of chaos. This outbreak followed the deaths of three young children at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class. Josh Halliday reports on what we know so far about the people at the centre of the violence

Joan E Greve and Leah Wright Rigueur discuss JD Vance and Tim Walz’s clash on the debate stage in New York City on Tuesday night. Although Walz gave a solid performance, it was described as underwhelming, while Vance attempted to reset his image and get on the front foot. Will this debate have moved the needle at all? And as the situation in the Middle East escalates, where do Trump and Harris stand on foreign policy?

After protests against strikes on Lebanon at the weekend included some people holding the Hezbollah flag, Peter Dutton suggested parliament should be recalled to enact new anti-terrorism laws that would cover such actions if it was not already illegal. Anthony Albanese and the Labor government accused the opposition leader of seeking to ‘raise the temperature’ of public debate over conflict in the Middle East. Then the debate turned to protests planned for 6 and 7 October after police in NSW tried to block the pro-Palestinian rallies from taking place.Nour Haydar speaks to deputy editor Patrick Keneally and deputy editor Gabrielle Jackson about how the opposition leader is dictating the terms of the political debate and the role of protests in our democracy

On Friday 27 September, an Israeli airstrike on Beirut killed the Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and Lebanon announced three days of mourning. Now Israel has launched a ground attack on southern Lebanon, after trading almost daily fire with Hezbollah for 11 months. The Israeli military claims its ground invasion is a ‘limited, localised and targeted’ operation against Hezbollah infrastructure, but at least 1 million civilians have been forced to leave their homes, and more than 1,000 Lebanese people have been killed. Reporter Chérine Yazbeck tells Nour Haydar how Nasrallah’s support base has responded to his assassination, and why she won’t leave Lebanon despite living in fear for her life

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is suing Coles and Woolworths over allegations they misled shoppers by offering ‘illusory’ discounts on hundreds of products. It’s a practice that helps them make huge profits in an already overheated economy. Guardian columnist Greg Jericho tells Matilda Boseley why he thinks corporations, not consumers, should be made to pay for the cost-of-living crisis. • You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

For more than a decade Gisèle Pelicot’s husband drugged her and recruited other men to allegedly rape her. When she found out, she made an extraordinary decision. Angelique Chrisafis reports

The commonwealth’s offer of a 2.5% funding boost to each state would increase how much it gives to public schools by $16bn over the decade. And, while Tasmania and Western Australia have signed up, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Queensland are holding out for more. But time is ticking for state and federal education ministers to reach a deal, with the deadline fast approaching. Nour Haydar speaks to education reporter Caitlin Cassidy about why everyone agrees public education is underfunded but can’t agree on who should fork out the funds

Polling out this week suggests Kamala Harris could be outperforming Donald Trump in the crucial Sun-belt states of Arizona, Nevada, Georgia and North Carolina. So what happens if these polls are right? Can Donald Trump win the presidency without them? This week, Jonathan Freedland speaks to George Chidi, politics and democracy reporter for Guardian US, about how these states could be be make or break for either candidate.

Negative gearing, the tax incentive that benefits investors, has become one of the most controversial policies in Australian politics and is widely viewed to have lost Labor the 2019 election. But this week it seemed the prime minister was open to considering change, if only for the briefest of moments.Bridie Jabour speaks to chief political correspondent Paul Karp about why Australia could be gearing up for another election battle over housing

Last week we brought you an episode on how the Labor party achieved gender parity through 30 years of affirmative action. But while important gains have been made by women, Australia still lags behind other multicultural countries when it comes to representing its population. In this episode, Nour Haydar speaks to writer and commentator Sisonke Msimang about why parliament is more diverse than ever but still doesn’t reflect Australian society

When Anthony Albanese’s government came to power in 2022 it declared that, after decades of disaster and neglect, the environment was going to be a top priority. But more than two years later and with a federal election looming, has anything changed? Guardian Australia’s climate and environment editor, Adam Morton, speaks with Matilda Boseley about whether Labor has walked their talk on the environment

Behind closed doors in a courtroom in Reno, Nevada, a high-stakes family business dispute has been unfolding. Rupert Murdoch is trying to change the terms of a longstanding family trust to give his favoured eldest son, Lachlan, full control of his media empire after his death. Associate professor Andrew Dodd tells Nour Haydar how the outcome of the case could determine the future direction of News Corp and Fox News

The British newsreader has been sentenced for accessing indecent images of children. How did the BBC handle the scandal? Dan Boffey reports

With six weeks to go before the election, Jonathan Freedland speaks to the author Sasha Abramsky about the prospect of a second January 6 attack should the former president refuse to accept the outcome of the vote You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Dozens of people were killed on Tuesday when electronic pagers blew up. The next day walkie-talkies exploded. What was the goal of the attacks? William Christou reports

This week arguments about what direction housing reform should take dominated the Senate. The result is that Labor’s help to buy legislation has been delayed by the Greens and the Coalition. Anthony Albanese says he will reintroduce the bill later in the year – and won’t rule out a double dissolution election if it is blocked again. Chief political correspondent Paul Karp speaks to Nour Haydar about the reforms voters want the government to prioritise and how a double dissolution election would change parliament

Australians are paying the most expensive advertising fees in the world to sell their homes online as a result of the market dominance of realestate.com.au and Domain. Senior correspondent Sarah Martin tells Reged Ahmad what’s behind the astronomical rise in profits for the real estate websites and if the government can do anything about it You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Amber Haigh was 19 years old when she disappeared in 2002, leaving behind an infant son. For months Robert and Anne Geeves sat in court accused of her murder but this week the verdict came down from the judge: not guilty. They are now free. Ben Doherty tells Bridie Jabour about the two ‘indispensable facts’ the judge says the prosecution failed to prove

How did a dark and stormy night galvanise South Australia’s renewable energy ambitions? Reged Ahmad speaks to environment reporter Petra Stock about how SA pulled off a renewable energy world record – and how it plans to power the entire state with weather-dependent electricity in just a few years

In 1994 the Australian Labor party made the controversial decision to introduce quotas for women. Thirty years later, the rule has transformed the party, increasing the number of female MPs to 52.4% of the ALP caucus. Guardian Australia political editor Karen Middleton speaks to Nour Haydar about that landmark decision and why former prime minister Julia Gillard wants to see the rule adopted across parliament

Australia’s prime minister has said the government will impose a ban before the next election on younger teenagers and children accessing social media. But questions remain about whether such a ban is possible. Chief political correspondent Paul Karp speaks to Reged Ahmad about why the government has set its sights on our online world, and whether it can legislate young people off the apps You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

By now you would have seen the countless stories about supermodel Elle Macpherson and her breast cancer treatment choices. Most of the headlines and articles amplified her decision to forgo some standard medical treatments in favour of alternative therapies. But what crucial information was missing? Guardian Australia’s medical editor, Melissa Davey, speaks to Nour Haydar about the controversy and how to make sense of the claims and products pushed by the wellness industry. You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Donald Trump and Kamala Harris met face to face for the first time on a debate stage in Philadelphia. So who won the showdown? What did we learn about what they would do in the Oval Office? And will it really change anything come election day in November?Jonathan Freedland and Nikki McCann Ramirez of Rolling Stone discuss it all

As Australia prepares to head into another federal election, independent ACT senator David Pocock wanted to make a statement when he commissioned deepfake AI generated videos of the prime minister, Anthony Albanese, and the opposition leader, Peter Dutton. He wants to stop political parties and big donors from using generative technologies to their advantage. Pocock speaks to Reged Ahmad about why he thinks time is running out to address the threat of election AI deepfakes. You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Kathryn Joy was three months old when their father killed their mother in the family’s home. More than 30 years later, Kathryn has shared their story and trauma in a new documentary, KillJoy. Nour Haydar speaks with Kathryn Joy about the silence, stigma and grief of losing one parent at the hands of another and how children bereaved by domestic violence should be better supported

While recent global attention has been focused on wars in Gaza and Ukraine, a brutal war in Sudan has continued for more than 500 days with no ceasefire in sight. The conflict between the military and paramilitary has led to millions being displaced, a declaration of famine in some regions and a further 25 million facing acute hunger. Nour Haydar speaks to Unicef spokesperson James Elder about what he has seen on the ground in Sudan and Melbourne-based student Mohamed Hadi about local initiatives to support civilians and raise awareness about the devastating consequences of this war You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Kamala Harris and Donald Trump will meet face to face on the debate stage on Tuesday. Jonathan Freedland speaks to Paul Begala – who helped Al Gore in the lead-up to his 2000 debate against George W Bush – about what the 2024 candidates will be doing to make sure they’re ready. What can they do to increase their chances of coming out on top, and will this debate be as election-defining as the last? You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

This week the federal opposition leader, Peter Dutton, staged an intervention of the NSW Liberals. The bold move follows weeks of chaos in the state branch after an unprecedented administrative bungle saw 140 candidates excluded from the upcoming council elections. Reged Ahmad speaks to our NSW state correspondent, Tamsin Rose, and chief political correspondent, Paul Karp, about what this week’s extraordinary federal intervention of the state branch means for the party

Australia had its hottest August on record and now a barely-there winter has crashed into a too-warm spring. And while Tasmania is experiencing floods, and Victoria severe winds, the abnormal heat in many parts of the country has prompted authorities to urge people to get ready for the pending bushfire season. Climate and environment reporter Graham Readfearn tells Reged Ahmad about the forces behind the unseasonable weather and the outlook for bushfires You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

At the Pacific Islands forum in Tonga, Australia’s prime minister was ‘caught on camera’ joking with a senior US official about the cost of a newly announced Pacific policing plan. At the same forum, there were diplomatic fireworks from China, which was upset about references to Taiwan in the communique, while the UN chief issued an ‘SOS’ on rising sea levels. Foreign affairs and defence correspondent Daniel Hurst speaks to Reged Ahmad about the drama of the Pacific Islands Forum

LGBTQ+ advocates were hopeful the 2026 census would include new questions on gender identity after the Labor party committed to do so. But last week news broke that the government ditched that plan. Then it backtracked days later to include one question after all. But many say the move doesn’t go far enough. Political reporter Amy Remeikis tells Nour Haydar why Labor is jumping at culture war shadows You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Whether it be our morning coffee or dining table or car loan, Australians are all making changes to their daily routine in response to rising expenses. Businesses such as coffee machine retailer Breville and the big two supermarkets are, consequently, doing very well. Premium furniture company Nick Scali, however, is reporting falling profits and car repossessions are slowly rising. So are these changes in spending a warning sign of an imminent recession? Tamsin Rose and senior business reporter Jonathan Barrett track a day in the life of a cost-of-living crisis

At the end of July, the TV news anchor turned rightwing politician Kari Lake won the Republican Senate primary in Arizona. She will face Democrat Ruben Gallego in November. So how will the Trump-inspired election denier do? Where does Kari Lake fit in with today’s Republican party? And will her presence help or hinder Trump in that all-important border swing state? Jonathan Freedland speaks to Elaine Godfrey of the Atlantic to find out more about the Senate hopeful. You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The Albanese government has seemingly walked back a promise to include questions on sexuality and gender diversity in the next census. The treasurer, Jim Chalmers, justified Labor’s decision by saying they wanted to prevent a divisive debate in the community, but the decision was met with criticism from LGBTQ+ rights groups. So why is Labor shying away from this conversation?Bridie Jabour speaks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor, national news editor Josephine Tovey and head of news Mike Ticher about whether Labor risks losing voters if they don’t deliver on their promises

Australia’s birthrate is now below the level we need to replace the existing population. And across the developed world, governments have tried unsuccessfully to encourage people to have more children. Senior reporter Tory Shepherd talks to Nour Haydar about why the concern about a falling birthrate means we should rethink the pursuit of continued growth, and reduce the barriers to choices for women You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The Northern Territory election delivered an unmitigated disaster for Labor over the weekend, with the Country Liberal party sweeping to power on a promise to be tough on crime. Tamsin Rose speaks to Guardian Australia political editor Karen Middleton and Queensland state correspondent Ben Smee on how politicians from all sides are reading the results

Labor is resisting calls from a Senate inquiry and health experts for a total ban on gambling advertisements. Tamsin Rose speaks to Sydney mother Bronwyn, whose son started problem gambling at 17, and Guardian Australia’s medical editor Melissa Davey about why there is an urgent need for reform You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

A heated sitting fortnight has prompted fresh debate about the tone of parliamentary conduct, and why independents and women seem to cop it the worst. Independent MPs Zali Steggall and Dr Sophie Scamps call time on poor question time behaviour

In a ceremony filled with celebrities, fiery speeches and hope, Kamala Harris has formally accepted the nomination to be her party’s presidential candidate. The southern bureau chief for Guardian US, Olly Laughland, hears from senior political reporter Lauren Gambino about what she saw in the Democratic National Convention this week, and whether or not the Harris campaign can maintain this momentum until November

This week Peter Dutton used the war in Gaza to make a political point, accusing the government of bringing people in from the Gaza ‘war zone’ and ‘not conducting checks and searches on these people’ – claims not wholly true. But what is really driving this divisive debate?Bridie Jabour talks to Guardian Australia editor Lenore Taylor and head of newsroom Mike Ticher about why Dutton is dominating political discourse with distractions

When the NSW Farmers Association voted to campaign for shortening the duration of daylight saving, the NSW premier, Chris Minns, very quickly shut down the idea. So why does daylight saving continue to be a divisive issue that brings out impassioned views? Tamsin Rose speaks to rural and regional editor Calla Wahlquist and columnist Gabrielle Chan about both sides of the debate You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Just three days after Asio chief Mike Burgess asked politicians to watch their words about the Middle East, Peter Dutton escalated his rhetoric against Palestinians fleeing Gaza. Guardian Australia’s political editor Karen Middleton and community affairs reporter Mostafa Rachwani tell Tamsin Rose about the political calculations behind the opposition leader’s latest line of attack

A Queensland coroner is investigating the motivations of Gareth, Nathaniel and Stacey Train, who killed constables Matthew Arnold and Rachel McCrow and a neighbour, Alan Dare, at their remote property in Wieambilla. So far, the testimonies have included a forensic psychiatrist and an extremism academic. Queensland state reporter Andrew Messenger speaks to Tamsin Rose about the recommendations that have been made by police and experts to prevent a repeat of this tragedy You can support the Guardian and the Full Story podcast here

All the evidence in the trial of Robert and Anne Geeves for the murder of Amber Haigh has now been heard. Reporter Ben Doherty tells Bridie Jabour about the final week in the NSW supreme court, each side’s closing submissions and what happens next

Not so long ago, Donald Trump was riding high in the polls; the mood music was positive for his presidential campaign. Then Joe Biden dropped out of the election race. After months of campaigning against his old foe, Trump now seems to be missing him and struggling to come up with a fresh attack against his new opponent Kamala Harris. This week, Jonathan Freedland speaks to Susan Glasser of the New Yorker about Trump’s challenges as he tries to turn things around after a less than stellar month on the campaign

Sheikh Hasina was a historic figure in her country. But now she has fled after protests turned violent. How did it all go wrong? David Bergman reports

This week the Labor government is facing criticism for its proposal to put a cap on gambling advertising despite most people supporting an outright ban. But why water down legislation that holds such high community support? According to Bill Shorten, because the future of free-to-air TV depends on it.Gabrielle Jackson speaks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and deputy editor Patrick Keneally about the crisis in the media, and why we should be looking for answers outside the gambling industry

The report from parliament’s inquiry into missing and murdered Indigenous women and children is due to be released today – for one Bourke family, it’s another step on a long road for police accountability. Indigenous affairs editor Lorena Allam speaks to Nour Haydar about the families who won’t stop fighting for justice and why it’s time for reform

Federal parliament is back after the long winter break and already the debate is running hot on key issues including housing, gambling and the cost of living. And with less than a year to go before the election, pressure is mounting on the government to gain ground and appeal to voters. Guardian Australia’s chief political correspondent, Paul Karp, and political reporter Amy Remikis discuss what Labor wants to finish before we head to the polls You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Senator Linda Reynolds is suing Brittany Higgins in the supreme court of Western Australia over social media posts. The former minister’s legal team claims that after Higgins alleged she was raped in Parliament House, she and her now husband, David Sharaz, cast Reynolds as the ‘villain’ and damaged her reputation on social media. But Higgins’ legal team says this case is about the power discrepancy between a then 24-year-old with limited job security and the minister for defence. Reporter Sarah Basford Canales discusses the trial with Hannah Parkes

Last week the supreme court of NSW heard the voices of both accused of murdering Amber Haigh. This week you get to hear them too. Robert and Anne Geeves have both pleaded not guilty and have not testified in court but reporter Ben Doherty was there to hear their original police interviews. He tells Bridie Jabour about the interviews from June 2002. Listen to all episodes of Who Cared? The disappearance of Amber Haigh here: theguardian.com/amberhaigh

The Democratic nominee for the US presidency has picked her running mate, and it is Minnesota’s governor, Tim Walz. He’s called Donald Trump and JD Vance ‘weird’, but will he be able to pull in enough support for Harris? Jonathan Freedland is joined by political commentator Molly Jong-Fast to discuss whether Harris made the right pick and if Republicans should be worried

The Australian government has raised the terrorism threat level from possible to probable. No single issue or ideology led to this rise, but as extremism spreads online – and in our communities – how concerned should we be? Bridie Jabour speaks to Guardian Australia’s head of news, Mike Ticher, and deputy editor Gabrielle Jackson about why the threat of terrorism is rising around the world and what we can do to stop it

Lebanon is now teetering on the edge of a full-scale war and many countries – including Australia - are urging their citizens to leave.But, for some, leaving this land of both beauty and pain is not a thought they will entertain.Nour Haydar speaks to two reporters in Beirut – Ali Hashem, a correspondent and columnist, and Cherine Yazbeck, a journalist and photographer – about what it’s like living with uncertainty as tensions escalate.

Courts and justice reporter Nino Bucci describes how police used flawed identification evidence against a 15-year-old boy after the 2019 stabbing of a Melbourne teenager

When Rex grounded its capital city services and entered into voluntary administration last week, it joined a long queue of airlines that have unsuccessfully challenged Qantas and Virgin’s duopoly. The former Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chair Rod Sims argues this was caused by ‘public policy failure’ over the allocation of slots at Sydney airport. Guardian Australia’s transport and urban affairs reporter Elias Visontay speaks to Tamsin Rose about how a lack of competition means that consumers are going to continue paying more for less

In court so far we have heard much detail about the two accused of Amber Haighs murder. People have spoken about them and for them but we haven’t heard them speak for themselves, until now. This week reporter Ben Doherty tells Bridie Jabour about the recordings of Robert and Anne Geeves played to the court Listen to all episodes of Who Cared? The disappearance of Amber Haigh here: theguardian.com/amberhaigh

This week, Paul Dans, the leader of the controversial Project 2025, resigned and signalled in a company email that work on it was ‘winding down’. The project had become a manifesto of rightwing policies that would serve as a guide for the next Republican president. However, there is a significant stumbling block: Donald Trump claiming he wants nothing to do with it

Following the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the political chief of Hamas, in the Iranian capital, Tehran, are we on the edge of a regional war? Emma Graham-Harrison reports

More than 10 million people around Australia have tuned in to experience the sporting highs and lows of the Olympics. And while there are always controversies, the games in Paris this year have been sucked into a culture war. Bridie Jabour speaks to the head of news, Mike Ticher, and the national news editor, Josephine Tovey, about why some on the right have turned the Olympics into a moral panic

Education reporter Caitlin Cassidy tells Nour Haydar university academics claim they are being pressured into passing students with no grasp of ‘basic’ English to maximise revenue Australian universities accused of awarding degrees to students with no grasp of ‘basic’ English

When it comes to marijuana, Australia is trailing behind the US where recreational use has been legalised in a number of states. And yet the boom in legal cannabis gummies there seems to have resulted in an increase of illicit edible use back home. Health reporter Natasha May tells Matilda Boseley why more people are turning to edibles instead of alcohol, but experts warn they cannot be sure what they are consuming You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The resignation of two senior ministers has given the prime minister the chance to refresh his cabinet and also solve some political problems. Guardian Australia political editor Karen Middleton tells Nour Haydar if Labor’s new line up can secure the party a second term in government You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The trial of Robert and Anne Geeves for the murder of Amber Haigh has now heard 22 days of public hearings. Reporter Ben Doherty has previously heard evidence from those in Amber’s community: neighbours, friends, family and people who met her briefly. But this week, he tells Bridie Jabour, the court heard from those who were in charge of the investigation into her disappearance Listen to all episodes of Who Cared? The disappearance of Amber Haigh here: theguardian.com/amberhaigh

Kamala Harris enjoyed a brief period of excitement as Democrats rallied behind her presidential bid ahead of November’s election. Only a few days in, however, she is being asked questions over her stance on Israel and the war in Gaza. With fewer than 100 days left, Joan Greve speaks to the former adviser to Barack Obama and co-host of Pod Save The World, Ben Rhodes, about the state of play for November 2024 How to listen to podcasts: everything you need to know

After weeks of chaos on the campaign trail, the new Democratic nominee Kamala Harris has brought some voters new enthusiasm for the US presidential election. But will this early bump propel Harris to the White House? Progressive leaders around the world have countered the chaos of conservatives by projecting calm and by running sensible, risk averse campaigns. Bridie Jabour speaks to Guardian Australia’s editor-in-chief, Lenore Taylor, national news editor, Josephine Tovey, and head of news, Mike Ticher, about the politics of being sensible and what voters really want in their leader

Have you ever wondered how the algorithms on social media platforms affect what you see in your feed? That was a question that preyed on the mind of Guardian Australia’s technology reporter Josh Taylor, so he set up an experiment and the results were troubling. Taylor and Dr Stephanie Wescott, an expert in online misogyny, tell Nour Haydar how Meta algorithms are amplifying sexist and misogynistic content

Having secured the backing of enough delegates, the US vice-president, Kamala Harris, is on track to become the democratic party’s presidential nominee. The Guardian’s Washington DC bureau chief David Smith and senior political correspondent Hugo Lowell tell Nour Haydar if Harris has what it takes to beat Donald Trump

In a country that is world famous for its beaches and warm weather, winter in most Australian homes is – surprisingly – very cold. Matilda Boseley speaks to Dr Nicola Willand, a housing and energy expert, about why Australia lags when it comes to indoor heating standards and what we can do to warm our homes You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Joe Biden has withdrawn from the presidential race after weeks of pressure to quit. Four months before Americans head to the polls, Biden has endorsed his vice-president, Kamala Harris, to be the new nominee. Jonathan Freedland is joined by politics reporter Nikki McCann Ramírez to discuss what happens next. Will Democrats rally around Harris, who has already had endorsements from fellow Democrats, and does she have what it takes to beat the Republican nominee, Donald Trump?

There have now been 38 witnesses called in the trial of Robert and Anne Geeves, who are charged with the murder of Amber Haigh. Ben Doherty tells Bridie Jabour about the evidence presented. This week the court heard more about the weeks and months following Amber’s disappearance, as well as further testimony and allegations about Robert Geeves’ past. Listen to all episodes of Who Cared? The disappearance of Amber Haigh here: theguardian.com/amberhaigh

After the attempted assassination of Donald Trump over the weekend, the Republican national convention gathered in Milwaukee this week to welcome him as the party’s presidential nominee. But not all eyes were on the former president. Standing next to him, above the chanting crowd, was his newly appointed candidate for vice-president, JD Vance. It was a surprising move for the Ohio senator and author of Hillbilly Elegy who once described himself as a ‘never Trumper’ and his new boss as ‘America’s Hitler’. So what’s behind this transformation, and what’s in it for Trump? To find out, Jonathan Freedland is joined this week by Tara Setmayer, a former Republican congressional communications director

For many Australians, as the cost of living continues to bite, it’s easy to feel as though everything is going backwards. But are things really as bad as they seem? On many measures things are actually improving, and the sense that the world is in a time of unprecedented crisis does not always match up with the data. Bridie Jabour speaks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and head of news Mike Ticher about the growing gap between our perception of the world and the reality

The Queensland government has been proudly promoting what it says is the success of its tough approach to youth crime. But as the number of arrests rise there are concerns for the welfare of some of the state’s most vulnerable children. Guardian Australia’s Queensland correspondent Ben Smee discusses his exclusive investigation that reveals how teenagers born with severe intellectual disabilities and branded repeat offenders are being locked up in adult watch houses

Hosting renewable projects, such as wind and solar farms, is an opportunity for many farmers to earn a stable income during the ongoing climate crisis. But in community meetings across regional Australia, there’s a ‘noisy minority’ who are mobilising a growing resistance to the renewables transition. Warwick-based rural and regional reporter Aston Brown speaks to Matilda Boseley about why there is a growing mistrust in some communities over the renewable energy rollout You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Tasmania’s Museum of Old and New Art prides itself on being provocative. Mona has courted controversy on numerous occasions, but critics say its latest stunt has gone a step too far. The privately owned gallery has admitted to creating and displaying fake Picasso paintings for more than three years. Guardian Australia’s arts reporter Kelly Burke tells Nour Haydar why she first suspected the paintings were bogus

As Donald Trump was speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania, loud noises were heard in the crowd around 6.13pm on Saturday. Video shows Trump quickly clutching his ear and then ducking down to the ground, as security agents and others leap to his aid. A shooter, who killed another person and seriously injured others, was killed by Secret Service agents. As the US comes to grips with what just happened, Jonathan Freedland and Sidney Blumenthal discuss what this tragedy means for the former president’s image with less than five months until the election

As the trial of Robert and Anne Geeves for the murder of Amber Haigh continues, Bridie Jabour speaks to Ben Doherty, who has been watching it unfold. This week he reports on evidence the court heard that Haigh had made a will, events surrounding a late-night visit to a neighbour’s house and further details of what’s been called ‘the tying up evidence’ Listen to all episodes of Who Cared? The disappearance of Amber Haigh here: theguardian.com/amberhaigh

Back in December Donald Trump said the quiet bit out loud when he announced he wanted to be a dictator – if only on day one. Looking around the world in the 21st century, autocracy is getting a new lease of life: authoritarian regimes are working together, and the danger to democracies like the United States is getting closer to home. This week, Jonathan Freedland is joined by political commentator and author Anne Applebaum to look at what the US should be doing to tackle the growing threat of autocracy

For the past two weeks climate protesters in Newcastle have been disrupting the world’s largest coal port. But as activists take to more extreme means in their efforts to highlight ecological collapse, new laws have been introduced around the country to try to stop them. Bridie Jabour speaks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and climate and environment editor Adam Morton about why, despite the prospect of arrest and jail time, climate-focused civil disobedience is not going away

With growing concern about the president’s cognitive ability, the Democrats face an excruciatingly difficult dilemma – whether to call for their leader, 81-year-old Joe Biden, to drop out of the race. Guardian US political correspondent Lauren Gambino tells Nour Haydar why the Democrats are torn over who should lead them to the next election and just how critical the coming weeks are for Joe Biden’s campaign You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

A leftwing coalition snatched victory from the far right in the final round of the French parliamentary elections. But will France now fall into political deadlock? Angelique Chrisafis reports

After a securing a massive majority, can Labour use it to tackle the huge inequality that exists around the UK today? Reged Ahmad and Helen Sullivan speak to Nour Haydar about what was surprising this election and what Keir Starmer’s first challenges are

In Wagga Wagga the trial of Robert and Anne Geeves for the murder of Amber Haigh is now in its third week. Ben Doherty tells Bridie Jabour what was heard in court last week. For the first time prosecution witness testimony about what has been referred to as ‘the tying up evidence’ was heard, but it was the subject of some arguments in court. Other witnesses told us more about Haigh’s five months as a mother, before she disappeared Listen to all episodes of Who Cared? The disappearance of Amber Haigh here: theguardian.com/amberhaigh

As Americans celebrated Independence Day, Democrats scrambled after a pretty disastrous week for the party – and arguably US democracy. On Monday, the supreme court handed Donald Trump a victory by ruling that former presidents are entitled to some degree of immunity from criminal prosecution. Stemming from this, the judge overseeing the former president’s criminal case in New York postponed his sentencing from next week to 18 September. This falls against the backdrop of Joe Biden trying to convince the public and members of his party that he is still fit to run for president. This week, Jonathan Freedland and Paul Begala, a former adviser to Bill Clinton, discuss how the Democrats can regroup

Fatima Payman has quit the Labor party but will stay in the Senate as an independent. Her resignation comes after she was indefinitely suspended from the parliamentary caucus because she said she was prepared to cross the floor again in support of a motion on Palestinian statehood. Bridie Jabour talks with deputy editor Patrick Keneally and the head of news, Mike Ticher, about Labor’s strict rules on party solidarity and if Payman’s exit means Labor needs to change with the times

By the end of the week, Keir Starmer could be the UK’s next prime minister. Why do voters in the UK general election feel they don’t know him?

With monthly inflation at its highest level for 2024, Australians are changing their habits of consumption when eating out and at home. This includes buying less weekday coffees and less vegetables, while also saving up for a weekend brunch. At the same time, there’s been increasing scrutiny on prices through Craig Emerson’s report on the food and grocery code of conduct as well as an undercover shopping study by Choice on price differences between Aldi, Coles and Woolworths. Jane Lee speaks to senior business reporter Jonathan Barrett about why he thinks we’re heading towards stagflation, how cafes and restaurants are coping with reduced demand and other ways the government could be addressing the causes of inflation

Last week Labor senator Fatima Payman made national headlines when she broke ranks with her party and voted in support of a Greens motion to recognise a state of Palestine. The Western Australian senator now claims she has been ‘exiled’ by the Labor party after the vote. Political editor Karen Middleton speaks to Nour Haydar about the consequences of crossing the floor

Food allergies, particularly in children, can be inconvenient and distressing. And global trends show that allergies differ country to country – with peanut allergies being more common in Australia, the UK and the US, and less common in Asia. Jane Lee speaks to Jennifer Koplin, an associate professor at the University of Queensland, about how factors such as genetics, migration and pets in the home are contributing to our growing understanding of food allergies in children

Donald Trump and Joe Biden took to the debate stage in Atlanta, Georgia for their first head-to-head of this year’s presidential election campaign. Jonathan Freedland and Nikki McCann Ramirez of Rolling Stone look at who did better on the night Biden struggles to land lines as Trump lies in first presidential debate

More than 20 years after Amber Haigh’s disappearance, two people stand accused of her murder – one of them the father of her child. Both have pleaded not guilty. Bridie Jabour speaks to Ben Doherty, who’s reporting on the trial. They discuss what we learnt about Amber Haigh’s life, the prosecution’s case against a married couple, and the defence’s counterargument that the case against them is weak and based on degraded memories from disapproving members of the community. Listen to all episodes of Who Cared? The disappearance of Amber Haigh here: theguardian.com/amberhaigh

Australia is about to become the first country to ban the sale of vapes outside pharmacies. But the so-called ‘world-leading’ laws came after Labor compromised in a deal with the anti-prohibition Greens. Bridie Jabour speaks to deputy editor Patrick Keneally and the head of news, Mike Ticher, about getting the balance right on vaping reform

Victoria’s Yoorrook Justice Commission will soon wind up its formal hearings, with its final recommendations to the state government due next year. As a number of other states plan their own truth-telling processes, Yoorrook’s chair, Wamba Wamba and Wergaia elder Prof Eleanor Bourke, speaks to Jane Lee about how the conversation on Indigenous Australians is changing, and the value of truth-telling

Julian Assange has been released from a British prison to seal a US plea deal. The WikiLeaks founder is due to be sentenced at a hearing on the island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands in the Pacific, before returning home to Australian soil. Foreign affairs and defence correspondent Daniel Hurst tells Nour Haydar what led up to the release and what happens now

Thirty years ago, 164 children born in inner-city Melbourne were selected to take part in a longitudinal study into inequality. Tracking the twists and turns of each child’s life into adulthood, the study examined issues such as housing, income, health and job opportunities. And asked – what really determines someone’s fate? Inequality reporter Stephanie Convery tells Jane Lee why inequality in Australia is ultimately a policy choice.

The Australian government rolled out the red carpet for China’s premier, Li Qiang, last week. And while both countries were keen to signal that relations were positive, protests and an attempt to block the view of an Australian journalist hinted at tensions sitting just beneath the surface. Jane Lee speaks to Guardian Australia’s foreign affairs and defence correspondent, Daniel Hurst, about the changing ties You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

In this year’s presidential election, there is hardly a more divisive issue than immigration. Earlier this month, Joe Biden signed an executive order to temporarily limit asylum claims on the southern border, but just two weeks later he announced a citizenship pathway for hundreds of thousands of undocumented spouses. In his speech, he said: ‘I’m not interested in playing politics with the border or immigration; I’m interested in fixing it.’ As he faces accusations of being both too hard and too soft on the issue, will his political gamble pay off? Jonathan Freedland is joined this week by Dara Lind, senior fellow at the American Immigration Council

Peter Dutton wants to use the cost-of-living crisis to the opposition’s advantage. And while Australian households are under a huge amount of financial stress, polls show people feel Labor isn’t doing enough to help them where it hurts most. Bridie Jabour speaks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and head of news Mike Ticher about why Australian politics is defined by the cost-of-living crisis

After months of speculation, opposition leader Peter Dutton revealed his party’s nuclear policy – naming seven power plant sites across the country but leaving many questions unanswered. Climate and environment editor Adam Morton and chief political correspondent Paul Karp join Nour Haydar to discuss the problems with the Coalition’s nuclear policy You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Dozens of young female students in Victoria last week had innocuous photos of themselves taken from social media and manipulated into graphic nude images using artificial intelligence.Investigations reporter Ariel Bogle speaks to Nour Haydar about the dangers of deepfakes

Anthony Albanese came into government promising a new way of doing politics. Two years on, some of the gloss has come off the Labor government as the Coalition gains momentum in the polls. Political reporter Amy Remeikis tells Jane Lee why Labor is struggling in the polls and why we could expect an election before the end of the year

For women in violent or abusive relationships money can be a key factor that determines whether they stay or leave. Reporter Kate Lyons speaks to Nour Haydar about what she found after sitting in on financial abuse counselling sessions – and what needs to change to stop abuse

On Tuesday, Hunter Biden was found guilty on all three criminal charges relating to buying a handgun while being a user of crack cocaine. His father – the US president – was firm in his support for his son but also in his belief in the justice system. After Donald Trump was convicted in a New York court last month, rightwing pundits and Republican politicians were lining up to accuse the Biden administration of rigging the justice system for political advantage. Yet now the courts have convicted Biden’s own son. Jonathan Freedland is joined by Susan Glasser of the New Yorker to look at how the right has decided to spin this latest conviction

If elected, opposition leader Peter Dutton says he will abandon Australia’s 43% emissions reduction target for 2030. The prime minister, Anthony Albanese, labeled the comments divisive, and climate experts say Dutton’s position will put Australia in breach of the landmark Paris agreement. Bridie Jabour speaks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and climate and environment editor Adam Morton about the consequences of putting politics ahead of good climate policy

Guardian Australia political editor Karen Middleton speaks with prime minister Anthony Albanese about the Coalition’s decision to ditch the 2030 emissions target, pro-Palestine protests outside electorate offices, and the Indigenous voice eight months on

The far right has made significant gains in the European parliament elections. The French president, Emmanuel Macron, has responded with a high-stakes gamble

Newsrooms constantly receive carefully curated press releases from companies and, while they usually form one side of the story, a new study has found that, when it comes to the fast food industry, a number of Australian media outlets aren’t fulfilling their half of the bargain. Health reporter Natasha May tells Matilda Boseley how news outlets are producing ‘covert marketing’ for fast food brands despite public health concerns about the poor nutritional quality of their menus You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Ever since a rain-soaked UK prime minister Rishi Sunak unexpectedly announced an early general election, the prevailing consensus has been that he will lead the Tories to a loss on 4 July. Jane Lee speaks to Guardian columnist Jonathan Freedland about how 14 years of Conservative rule have shaped the country and what’s at stake for Britons in this campaign

Reports surfaced a few weeks ago that a supreme court justice, Samuel Alito, had flown an upside-down US flag outside his home days after insurrectionists flew similar flags when they stormed the Capitol on 6 January 2021. Alito has blamed his wife, saying he wanted her to take down the flag after a dispute with neighbours. Democrats want Alito to recuse himself from any supreme court case involving 6 January, but he has refused to do so. Jonathan Freedland speaks to Amanda Marcotte of Salon about whether this latest scandal is proof that the supreme court is incapable of being unbiased

Despite a bipartisan committee unanimously agreeing to a nationwide ban, gambling ads are still everywhere. Extensive lobbying efforts from broadcasters and other corporate interests have slowed reform while these harmful ads continue to air. But its not just gambling – lobbying has halted progress on the climate crisis and some of the most crucial issues in our society.Bridie Jabour talks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and head of news Mike Ticher about how lobbying can get in the way of good governance

The international criminal court’s pursuit of senior Israeli and Hamas leaders over war crimes has ignited a fiery political debate in Canberra. Foreign affairs and defence correspondent Daniel Hurst tells Nour Haydar why the government’s response has been cautious, and criticised by the Coalition and Greens You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The Danish company behind the weight-loss drug has made millions, but without health insurance it is unaffordable for many. George Chidi reports

It’s been four months since 51-year-old Samantha Murphy disappeared after leaving for her morning run in the Victorian town of Ballarat. Victoria state reporter Adeshola Ore tells Nour Haydar about the latest in the police investigation

The Albanese government is once again under pressure over immigration detention. This time because an independent tribunal gave visas back to non-citizens with serious criminal convictions. Chief political correspondent Paul Karp tells Jane Lee why the coalition has demanded the immigration minister’s resignation You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Donald Trump has made history again, becoming the first US president, sitting or former, to be a convicted criminal. Late on Thursday a New York jury found him guilty on all 34 counts of falsifying records to cover up a sex scandal. Within minutes of leaving the courtroom, Trump said he would appeal. On an historic night for US politics, Politics Weekly America host Jonathan Freedland speaks to Guardian US reporter Sam Levine about what the hush-money trial verdict will mean – both for Trump and for the election in November

While the Australian economy has not dipped into recession, consumers are still struggling to afford the essentials. This widening gap between a slightly improving economy and households continuing to feel the pinch of the cost-of-living crisis has been called a ‘vibecession’.Bridie Jabour speaks with deputy editor Patrick Keneally and head of news Mike Ticher about how the economy is making Australians feel and why that may say more than the numbers

After two years of high inflation and interest rates, even well-paid Australians are being forced to cut back and sell their homes. But not everyone is sharing the pain. Senior business reporter Jonathan Barrett tells Jane Lee about the drastic measures many are taking to make ends meet and why having a ‘good job’ no longer means home ownership is within reach You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

It’s been more than two weeks since riots broke out on the streets of New Caledonia in response to plans to enfranchise long-term French residents in the Pacific territory. Reged Ahmad speaks to campaigner Jimmy Naouna about the fight for Kanak independence and what it will take to restore peace

Frontline women’s services say they are under immense strain and cannot keep up with the demand for crisis housing. Are governments providing enough funding where it’s needed? Full Story host Nour Haydar goes inside one of the nation’s newest refuges for women and children escaping domestic violence, and speaks to the chief executive of Women’s Community Shelters Annabelle Daniel about the crisis accommodation shortage You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

A highly pathogenic strain of bird flu, H5N1, has been detected in Australia for the first time, although there is no evidence of the disease spreading. At the same time a more common strain of the disease, H7N3, has been detected in two chicken egg farms in Victoria. Matilda Boseley speaks to Guardian Australia’s rural and regional editor Calla Wahlquist about why the poultry industry is worried – but everyday Australians don’t need to panic just yet

Opposition leader Peter Dutton is once again pitching nuclear power as the Coalition’s signature energy policy. But new analysis confirms it would be the most expensive energy option in Australia’s road to net zero.Gabrielle Jackson speaks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and deputy editor Patrick Keneally about why a nuclear transition is the wrong path for Australia

In March 2020 Russell Hill and Carol Clay, both in their 70s, went missing while camping in Victoria’s alpine region. Gregory Stuart Lynn has pleaded not guilty to the alleged double murder of the couple in Victoria’s supreme court. Courts and justice reporter Nino Bucci tells Nour Haydar about the trial’s latest developments You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

In his budget reply last week, Peter Dutton promised to slash permanent migration by 25% – a move he says could ease pressure on the housing market. Chief political correspondent Paul Karp tells Nour Haydar why the opposition leader has zeroed in on the issue and what it could mean in a pre-election year You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Hundreds of experts expect global temperatures to rise to at least 2.5C above preindustrial levels by 2100. Damian Carrington reports

Warning: this episode contains descriptions of graphic images that some viewers may find distressing. Last month, two Australian doctors spent two weeks in Gaza treating countless injured Palestinians. Surgeon Sanjay Adusumilli and general practitioner Siraj Sira tell Nour Haydar why they left Sydney to volunteer in the besieged territory, the pain they witnessed and the feelings of guilt on return You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Guardian Australia’s political editor, Karen Middleton, speaks with the treasurer, Jim Chalmers, about whether his third budget can really provide cost-of-living relief without fuelling inflation Exclusive: Labor to run $45m taxpayer-funded Future Made In Australia advertising campaign

Almost all children have them by the time they are 11 years old – and some get them at four. But are they ruining childhoods? Blake Montgomery reports

Editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and political editor Karen Middleton speak to Nour Haydar about the budget Labor hopes will bring down inflation, ease cost-of-living pressures and win the next election

In February, the Queensland police service sacked its First Nations advisory body after their refusal to sign a contract with a gag clause. Queensland state correspondent Ben Smee tells Nour Haydar how members of the group had repeatedly raised concerns that the police leadership had stalled on cultural reforms following a damning inquiry in 2022 into police responses to family and domestic violence You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Earlier this month, Cumberland city council in western Sydney passed a motion banning books about same-sex parenting from its libraries. Nour Haydar speaks to NSW reporter Catie McLeod about the controversial decision and backlash to the ban You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Federal treasurer Jim Chalmers will next week present his government’s third and possibly final budget of this term. He has said it won’t be one of ‘scorched-earth austerity’ and will take into account hardships caused by the cost-of-living crisis. But the 2024 Australian federal budget is not without its economic and social challenges and the government needs to convince voters that the economy is in safe hands. Bridie Jabour speaks with editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and deputy editor Patrick Keneally about the Albanese government’s budget narrative You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Last Tuesday, tents appeared on the lawn of the University of Sydney as students protested against the war in Gaza. The tents have multiplied, with similar student encampments now established at universities in every state in the country. Jane Lee speaks to Daisy Dumas and Caitlin Cassidy about what the protesters want and whether this growing movement could lead to change. You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

India’s mammoth election has kicked off with nearly a billion voters expected to head to the polls over six weeks. Reged Ahmad speaks to south Asia correspondent Hannah Ellis-Petersen about why prime minister Narendra Modi is popular yet divisive – and the international impact of the election You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

In July 2023, Erin Patterson hosted four relatives for lunch in the Victorian town of Leongatha. The guests were served beef wellington – which police allege was laced with a deadly mushroom. Patterson was charged with three counts of murder and five counts of attempted murder and is due to face court today. Courts and justice reporter Nino Bucci tells Nour Haydar about the latest developments in the case and why it has drawn intense media interest You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

The number of disabled students recognised as needing greater learning support has grown to almost 1 million nationally. But these children are increasingly being suspended from schools, including some as young as five years old. Investigative reporter Sarah Martin explains to Jane Lee how Australia’s education system has reached crisis point

In Australia – a multifaith and sometimes agnostic country – what role does faith play in the decision-making of those who run the country? With the upcoming release of his book, Plans For Your Good: A Prime Minister’s Testimony of God’s Faithfulness, Scott Morrison has placed his faith front and centre. But is this something new? Or has religion always been a part of Australia’s political democracy? Bridie Jabour speaks with editor in chief Lenore Taylor and deputy editor Patrick Keneally on the nuanced relationship between faith and politics You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Rising education, health and rental costs have kept inflation higher than expected this year. Economics correspondent Peter Hannam tells Nour Haydar what the Reserve Bank’s reaction might be – are all hopes of an interest rate cut this year gone? And what does this mean for any cost of living relief the government might be considering?

My Place emerged from the highly vocal Covid-19 anti-lockdown protests. It’s a network which reportedly has thousands of members and is predominantly active in Facebook community groups. Some of the ideas that these groups believe are that vaccines are deadly, fluoride in water is dangerous and 5G is a threat. Lately My Place has been taking its ideologies offline and into local government, with some groups allegedly playing a role in supporting candidates in Queensland council elections. So with the Queensland state election coming up in October, what might be the potential impact of groups such as My Place on the polling results? You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

For many years political leaders have condemned violence against women and expressed platitudes about the need for change. But government policies to reduce gender-based violence have failed and frontline services say they are severely underfunded. Journalist and coercive control educator Jess Hill speaks to Nour Haydar about the major paradigm shift that governments still need to make You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Police have arrested dozens of pro-Palestinian university students. Erum Salam and Margaret Sullivan report from New York You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

As the Australian government faces off with Elon Musk and his social media platform X, a global battle to better regulate the world’s biggest social platforms is kicking off.Nour Haydar speaks to editor-in-chief Lenore Taylor and deputy editor Patrick Keneally about the trouble with regulating global social media giants, and how it will affect the future of journalism

Anthony Albanese has labelled X’s owner, Elon Musk, an “arrogant billionaire who thinks he is above the law” as the rift deepens between Australia and the tech platform over the removal of videos of a violent stabbing in a Sydney church. Reporter Josh Taylor tells Jane Lee how this stoush started, and if it’s possible to stop the spread of violent material and misinformation online You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

In the aftermath of the Bondi Junction and Wakeley stabbing attacks, Guardian Australia political editor Karen Middleton tells Nour Haydar why there are calls to redefine terrorism and responses to violence against women You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport

Billed as a rival to the Olympic Games, the Enhanced Games – set to take place in 2025 – is a sporting event with a difference: athletes will be allowed to dope. Ian Sample talks to chief sports writer Barney Ronay about where the idea came from and how it’s being sold as an anti-establishment underdog, and to Dr Peter Angell about what these usually banned substances are, and what they could do to athletes’ bodies

More than 9 million Australians live in areas with limited or no childcare services, and the problem is only exacerbated in regional and remote areas – forcing many mothers to take a break from their careers. Guardian Australia columnist Gabrielle Chan tells Nour Haydar about her experience as a working mother in a regional area, her frustration at a lack of progress, and whose responsibility it is to ensure more towns get the childcare services they need You can support the Guardian at theguardian.com/fullstorysupport