When Labor came to power, it promised to clean up politics – to end the “jobs for mates” culture once and for all. But this week, the government quietly released the report it’s been sitting on for more than two years – and it’s not a great look. The ‘No Favourites’ review found an appointments system riddled with nepotism, where friends are given jobs as rewards for loyalty. And when it finally saw the light of day, it landed with all the energy of a Yes Minister episode — open government, in name only. Today, press gallery journalist Karen Middleton, on the government’s integrity problem, and why transparency always seems to be the last priority. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Press gallery journalist Karen Middleton Photo: AAP Image/Lukas CochSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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15:03
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15:03
Are we set for major blackouts?
The Australian Energy Market Operator says the electricity grid is unprepared to manage the planned closure of the Eraring power station in New South Wales – and eastern parts of Australia could be set for widespread blackouts. The Coalition and parts of the media have seized on the report saying it’s proof that the government has an “obsession” with renewables, over reliability and cost. So what needs to change to keep the lights on? Today, energy and climate change program director at The Grattan Institute, Alison Reeve, on what will happen as coal comes offline – and why our power bills are really going up. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Energy and climate change program director at The Grattan Institute, Alison ReeveSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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15:40
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15:40
How Australia’s ‘blood oil’ imports are funding Russia’s war
Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine almost four years ago, Australian leaders have repeatedly stated that Australia “stands with Ukraine”. But as the invasion has intensified – with nightly missile and drone attacks, rolling blackouts and water cuts across Ukrainian cities – Australia's support has slowed. The federal government hasn’t announced a fresh package of aid since December last year, making us one of the least generous donors to Kyiv. At the same time, Australia has become one of the biggest buyers of fuel made from Russian oil, refined in third countries and imported through loopholes in sanctions. Ukrainian community groups call it “blood oil”, warning that billions of Australian dollars are flowing back to the Kremlin - more than Australia has given Ukraine in aid. Today, chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations, Kateryna Argyrou, on how Australia's 'blood oil' imports are helping to prolong the war. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations, Kateryna Argyrou Photo: Stefan Sauer/dpaSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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16:46
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16:46
How teens are fighting the social media ban
Right now, Tiktok is awash with videos of how to get around the social media ban for under 16s, which is due to come into effect in a week. At the same time, fringe apps like Yope are rocketing up the Apple charts, as teenagers plan where they’ll go when the major platforms boot them off. There’s also a court case underway, challenging the government on whether the ban is even legal. Today, associate editor at Crikey, Cam Wilson, on who is behind the lawsuit, whether they’ll win, and how this ban could change the country. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Associate editor at Crikey, Cam Wilson Photo: AAP Image/Mick TsikasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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14:49
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14:49
The controversial limb-lengthening surgery set for Australia
Limb lengthening surgery – where bones in your leg are broken, a rod inserted and extended – can be high risk, and is especially controversial when it's done for cosmetic reasons. The procedure is a speciality of the Florida based Paley Institute, which now plans on opening an Australian arm. The centre is no stranger to controversy – and neither is the man they’re partnering up with – the once celebrated surgeon Dr Munjed Al Muderis, who recently lost a defamation case against the Nine newspapers. Today, investigative reporter at The Age, Charlotte Grieve, on how she exposed Dr Munjed Al Muderis – and what she’s learned about his plans for the Paley Institute. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Investigative reporter at The Age, Charlotte Grieve Photo: AAP Image/Bianca De MarchiSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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