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Background Briefing

ABC

News Society & Culture

Latest episode

281 episodes

05 Hometown Boys | 'Luke, Maybe'
13/2/2026 | 30 mins.
A key witness submits a startling new statement that topples the guilty verdict and forces a retrial. This time, the men accused will not give evidence. But Lisa Hutchins, the trusted bush nurse will take the stand again — now for the defence.
04 Hometown Boys | The Trial
05/2/2026 | 27 mins.
As the criminal trial unfolds, witnesses from Balmoral waver on the stand, and the judge is "taken aback". The courtroom is heaving with supporters of the accused but the verdict is not what they're expecting.
03 Hometown Boys | The 'Mayoress of Balmoral'
26/1/2026 | 31 mins.
A respected bush nurse with close ties to the accused becomes a key police witness. As the investigation quietly gathers pace, locals start to choose sides and the family of the victim feels ostracised.
03 Hometown Boys | Exile
26/1/2026 | 31 mins.
In the days after the 21st birthday party, some residents of Balmoral appear to take sides. As the police case quietly gathers pace, the town’s loyalties harden. Soon Elise and her family find themselves increasingly isolated in their own hometown.
02 Hometown Boys | The Party
16/1/2026 | 32 mins.
Elise comes home to celebrate a classmate’s 21st birthday party. By the end of the night, two old school friends will be accused of a terrible crime. But almost immediately, the town appears to adopt a “nothing to see here” approach, and close around the men.

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About Background Briefing

Background Briefing tells true stories not everyone will want you to hear. We infuse investigative reporting with captivating drama, following the thread of an individual story only to find that it leads us to something bigger. It's the only podcast in Australia that does this week in, week out. Hosted by Thomas Oriti. We want to hear from you too. If you have a tip-off, please contact us at backgroundbriefing[at]abc.net.au

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