This week on Q+A, a glimpse into the future. As the first sitting of the 47th Parliament draws to a close, the priorities and political challenges for the Albanese Government are becoming clearer. Legislating an emissions reduction target is a key focus, but how much ground will Labor have to concede to get the bill through?
The PM has promised a more inclusive and less divisive parliament, but how much will the realities of politics get in the way? Mr Albanese is facing headwinds in a progressive Senate, so what compromises will have to be made to implement his agenda?
And as the cross party negotiations play out, the CSIRO is warning that extreme weather will cost Australia more than $39 billion each year by 2050 – just one of the predictions in the agency’s once-in-a-decade report on the future trends that will shape the next generation. More Australians will forgo insurance as costs spiral, while food security will also be a key challenge, the report warns.
Other megatrends that will define our future include health, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, the digital world and geopolitical shifts. COVID and the Russian invasion of Ukraine have heralded a seismic shift in our direction – just how can we tackle the complex problems facing society?
COVID remains ever-present, as we face the age of the virus – with foot and mouth and monkey pox also threatening lives and livelihoods. And the effects of long COVID are becoming clearer, with some Australians facing living with disability for the first time as a result. Will the NDIS be able to cope with the extra pressures on the system?
And don’t forget you set the agenda – submit your questions and join us for an important discussion.
Dr Larry Marshall is Chief Executive of CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency.
Jenny McAllister has served as a Senator for New South Wales since 2015, representing the Australian Labor Party. She was co-founder of the Labor Environmental Activist Network (known as LEAN).
With a background in activism and campaigning, Sarah Hanson-Young has brought a strong human rights focus to her years in Federal Parliament.
Warren Mundine has 30 years experience in the energy and mining industry covering renewables, gas and pipeline construction, uranium and nuclear power, and electric buses and vans.
Hannah Diviney is a writer, disability advocate and Editor-in-Chief and Chief Creative Officer at Missing Perspectives, a grassroots feminist youth newsroom.
This week on Q+A, we look beyond our borders, to some of the big global issues that are causing ripples around the world, and here at home. Our government has tricky diplomatic and strategic waters to navigate – but how much is out of their hands?
Tensions with China continue to escalate, after Foreign Minister Penny Wong issued a joint statement with her US and Japanese counterparts condemning Beijing’s military exercises around the Taiwan Strait and demanding they “immediately cease”. The Chinese Embassy pushed back, saying “finger-pointing” was “absolutely unacceptable” and accusing the US of being the “biggest saboteur” of peace in the region.
The war of words comes in the wake of Nancy Pelosi’s controversial visit to Taiwan which saw China launching ballistic missiles in an unprecedented live-fire military drill around the self-ruled island. The US House of Representatives Speaker’s stopover was also marked by cyber attacks across Taiwan. Anthony Albanese says the “level of US engagement” with Taiwan is a matter for them, but what does it mean for our region?
Meanwhile, the international economy is in the doldrums, with inflation and interest rates biting. China’s economy is facing multiple challenges – including slowing growth and a property market decline – what will that mean for Australia?
And here at home, our military structure, preparedness and investments are being reviewed for the first time in a decade. It’s being led by a former Defence Minister and former Chief of Defence Sir Angus Houston, who says the “fast-changing” strategic environment is the “worst I’ve ever seen”. How can Australia prepare for what may be ahead?
All this, plus the news of the week.
Q+A is live from Melbourne on Thursday, August 8 at 8.30pm AEST.
Following the election of the Albanese Labor Government in May 2022, Pat Conroy was appointed as Minister for International Development and the Pacific and Minister for Defence Industry.
First elected aged 28, James Paterson has spent his professional career fighting for free markets, individual freedom and the preservation of Australia’s constitutional framework.
Sharan Burrow was elected General Secretary of the ITUC in 2010. Prior to this, Sharan was the second woman to be elected President of the Australian Council of Trade Unions (ACTU).
Dr. Jennifer Hsu is a Research Fellow in the Public Opinion and Foreign Policy Program at the Lowy Institute. She is currently working on a project which explores the intersections of Australia’s multiculturalism and foreign policy.
Damien Cave is the Australian bureau chief at TheNew York Times and the author of Into the Rip: How the Australian Way of Risk Made My Family Stronger, Happier … and Less American.
This week on Q+A, we head to western Sydney to tackle the issues that are hitting households right across Australia’s suburban heartland. From the cost-of-living crisis to critical infrastructure … educational opportunities to the rental squeeze – we’ll discuss the issues that are impacting people’s lives and livelihoods around the country.
As the flood recovery continues, what do those left to pick up the pieces still need to get their lives back on track? Just how well-prepared are we for the next major weather event? Amid the fallout from the NSW Parliamentary inquiry into the Northern Rivers flood, are our emergency services equipped to handle future disasters?
A thriving multicultural centre, western Sydney is a microcosm of Australia. But are the opportunities available to all or do some sections of the community miss out? And how can education empower the next generation to find their voices and possibly the answers to some of the biggest problems facing society?
And is multitasking a myth? We’ll have international bestselling author Johann Hari on the panel, explaining why our ever-shorter attention spans may not be our fault.
Q+A is live from Penrith on Thursday, August 18 at 8.30pm AEST.
Johann Hari is a bestselling writer and journalist, whose most recent book Stolen Focus (2022) investigates why our ability to pay attention is collapsing.
Murray Watt was elected as a Senator for Queensland in 2016. He is the Albanese Government’s Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Minister for Emergency Management.
The Honourable Catherine Cusack was elected to the NSW Legislative Council in 2003 and was re-elected in 2011, and again in 2019.
Winnie Dunn is the General Manager of Sweatshop Literacy Movement and the editor of several critically acclaimed anthologies, including Another Australia (Affirm Press, 2022).
Blak Douglas is an Archibald Prize winning artist from Western Sydney. He was trained in illustration and photography before becoming self–practised in painting.
Amanda Rose is Australia’s foremost Strategic Connector, Founder and CEO of Small Business Women Australia, Founder of Business Woman Media and Founding Director of Western Sydney Women, Mentoring Women and The Future is Bright.
Western Sydney Broadcasting Corporation showing off its obsession again.
They’d never do this sort of thing for a specific suburban centre in any other Australian city, even Melbourne.
This week on Q+A, we tackle the complex issue of ethics in sport. Sport continues to be a defining element of Australian culture, woven into the fabric of our political, social and working life – but for a nation that prides itself on the “fair go”, just how level is our playing field?
Fairness, inclusivity and personal beliefs all need to be taken into consideration, from the grassroots level to the Olympic arena … so how do we celebrate difference while setting rules on participation? Does fairness trump inclusion? How do sporting clubs respectfully represent the religious and cultural beliefs of those competing at an elite level?
From divisive debates on trans athletes’ participation to the furore over an NRL club’s pride jersey, sport has dominated news headlines this year. And research consistently shows racism is an ongoing problem. How can sporting bodies ensure all athletes, at all levels, feel included and respected? How do sports regulators balance fairness and inclusion allowing everyone an opportunity to participate? How do race, religion, gender and money affect sport in Australia today and what does this mean for the social cohesion of our country?
And don’t forget you set the agenda – submit your questions and join us for an important discussion.
Q+A is live from Melbourne on Thursday, August 25 at 8.30pm AEST.
Kieren Perkins OAM is regarded as one of the world’s greatest distance swimmers having won four Olympic medals.
Hannah Mouncey has represented Australia for the past 10 years as a Handball player, competing across the world in various events and has been a part of World Championship teams.
Joe Williams is a former NRL player and author who has delivered mental health and wellbeing programs to over 200 communities across Australia through his organisation The Enemy Within.
Dr David Lakisa is managing director of Talanoa Consultancy. In an Australian first, he was appointed as the inaugural Pacific Islander Coaching and Development officer at New South Wales Rugby League.
Catherine Ordway is Sport Integrity Research Lead at the University of Canberra and Senior Fellow at The University of Melbourne Law School.
This week on Q+A … finding common ground. In an increasingly fractured world – politically, economically and geographically – just what will it take to resolve some of the biggest issues facing us today?
The federal government’s jobs summit will be underway, so can everyone put their disagreements aside to manage wages growth and attract workers where we need them most? The past few years have forced a rethink about the very nature of work. How can Australia make sure it is well placed to embrace new technologies, industries and new ways of working?
Meanwhile the secret ministries scandal isn’t going away, with terms of reference announced for an inquiry into Scott Morrison’s multiple portfolios. Former Tourism Minister Fran Bailey has spoken out saying she forced him out of Tourism Australia because of a “complete lack of trust”. She also says he should quit parliament. Will the inquiry be a witch-hunt as the Coalition claims? Or can it prevent something similar from happening again?
And world-renowned author and philosopher AC Grayling has been wrestling with some of our planet’s most urgent dilemmas in his latest book, For the Good of the World and will share his unique take on technology, climate and justice.
All this, plus news of the week, and a special live performance from Aussie music legends the Hoodoo Gurus.
A. C. Grayling is the Founder and Principal of the New College of the Humanities at Northeastern University, London, and its Professor of Philosophy.
Katy Gallagher is the Albanese government’s Minister for Finance, Women, and Public Service. Prior to entering federal politics, Katy advocated for people with disability as a community worker, worked as a CPSU Organiser, and served as the Chief Minister of the ACT.
Stuart Robert has been the Federal Member for the northern Gold Coast seat of Fadden since November 2007.
Over the last 18 years, Catherine has worked in management, strategic and leadership roles in the agricultural, research and regional development sectors in Australia and internationally.
Wendy El-Khoury is the founder and director of leading global Wedding and Event Marketplace, Wedded Wonderland.
This week on Q+A … Emmy Award-winning actor Brian Cox and Kiwi singer songwriter Marlon Williams join the panel on the week of the Melbourne Writers’ Festival, to discuss ambition, power and who gets to tell stories.
Succession’s Brian Cox joins us before appearing at the festival to discuss his career built on getting under the skin of tyranny, and we’ll find out what it’s like to portray the colourful character of media mogul Logan Roy.
Kiwi singer-songwriter Marlon Williams is back on the road after two years’ lockdown in New Zealand – and has emerged with a new album that embraces his Māori heritage and plans for a Māori-language record.
Soprano, composer and educator Deborah Cheetham has been instrumental in amplifying the voices of Indigenous artists and is First Nations Chair at the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.
The power of storytelling is evident in the work of photojournalist Andrew Quilty, who’s spent more than a decade documenting the war in Afghanistan.
And former ADF officer Catherine McGregor has held positions of power in military and civilian life – and now champions veterans’ rights.
We’ll discuss all this, plus all the news of the week, and a special live performance from Marlon Williams.
Q+A is live from Melbourne on Thursday, September 8 at 8.30pm AEST.
Brian Cox stars as media magnate Logan Roy on HBO’s Succession and is the author of Putting the Rabbit Back in the Hat.
Following the release of his second album, 2018’s Make Way For Love, Marlon Williams toured the world, playing major festivals and collaborating with Lorde, Yo-Yo Ma and Florence Welch.
Prof Deborah Cheetham AO describes herself as a 21st century urban woman who is Yorta Yorta by birth, stolen generation by government policy, soprano by diligence, composer by necessity and lesbian by practice.
Catherine McGregor is a graduate of the Royal Military College at Duntroon where she was awarded the CEW Bean for military history. She currently works for the RSL as Veterans Advocate.
Andrew Quilty is the recipient of nine Walkley Awards, including the Gold Walkley, for his work on Afghanistan, where he has been based since 2013.
The end is nigh for Q+A , no matter what night it’s broadcast and who presents it, because the show’s formula — so perfectly attuned to the mix of new and familiar that audiences craved in 2010 — is now past its use-by date.
The politicians are back in Canberra following the suspension of parliament, and we have three prominent MPs on the panel to answer your questions, along with veteran broadcaster Alan Jones.
There’s a lot to talk about, including the government’s long-awaited anti-corruption bill, will this new parliament work together to pass the bill this week? Vigorous debate is expected in the Senate, with crossbenchers concerned it might not be given the level of power they are looking for.
The campaign for an Indigenous Voice to Parliament is also gearing up this week, with Uluru Statement leaders launching an ad asking Australians to given them a voice. Work on the details of the referendum is underway but parliament remains divided about the best way forward. How are Australians feeling about constitutional recognition?
And in the wake of shocking allegations made by former Indigenous players against the Hawthorn Football Club, two current coaches have stepped aside while the AFL investigates. There are calls for all AFL clubs to review their past treatment of First Nations players, with Indigenous leaders saying there’s more work to be done to address systemic racism in the competition.
Ed Husic was elected the Federal Member for Chifley in 2010 and was re-elected for his fifth term at the 2022 Federal Election. He currently serves as the Minister for Industry and Science.
Bridget McKenzie the Shadow Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development and currently serves as Leader of The Nationals in the Senate.
Since bursting onto the political scene in 2013, Jacqui Lambie’s career has been a rollercoaster ride - starting her own political party, losing her seat in the dual citizenship saga, and being re-elected in her own right in 2019.
Ben Abbatangelo is a Gunaikurnai and Wotjobaluk creative, impactor and writer. He is a former professional athlete with the Melbourne Stars and the former Deputy CEO of the global non-profit, AIME.
Alan Jones is one of Australia’s most influential broadcasters, currently hosting a primetime show each weeknight on the new ADH TV streaming service.
The producers of Q&A know that the Coalition got voted out and they can give up on hamfisting a sense of “balance” right? /s
That aside, describing Alan Jones as “one of Australia’s most influential broadcasters” is a huge red flag that whoever wrote that blurb hasn’t spent any time outside of NSW.
This week on Q+A… navigating a volatile world. With inflation continuing to climb, another rate rise to absorb and a global recession looming, is even more economic pain on the horizon for Australia? And as the gap between rich and poor grows starker and the rental crisis bites, are our laws and policy measures up to the challenges we face?
Joining the panel, former UK Supreme Court Justice Lord Jonathan Sumption – dubbed by some the “cleverest man in Britain” – to unpack what’s been a bruising week for the UK. The country’s near-financial collapse has left new PM Liz Truss vulnerable – but was the meltdown simply a result of her government’s policies or due to global instability? What lessons can Australia learn – particularly after the backflip by Truss on tax cuts for the rich? Will Labor be forced into a similar retreat?
Meanwhile the racism crisis engulfing Hawthorn Football Club continues to make headlines – with WorkSafe now looking into the club. Soccer is also facing its own scandal, with Football Australia looking into fans who adopted fascist symbols and gestures at the Australia Cup final. There are now calls to ban fans - is that the answer? What responsibility do clubs need to take for their supporters?
Q+A is live from Melbourne on Thursday, October 6 at 8.30pm AEDT.
Thursday, October 6 at 8.30pm AEDT.
Lord Jonathan Sumption was a Justice of the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom between 2012 and 2018. He is also well known as the author of a number of books on European history of the late middle ages.
Amanda Rishworth was elected to the federal parliament as the Member for Kingston at the age of 29. She is the Albanese Government’s Minister for Social Services.
Dr Mehreen Faruqi is Deputy Leader of the Australian Greens and a Senator for NSW. She is a civil and environmental engineer and a life-long activist for social, environmental and racial justice.
Francis Awaritefe is a Lawyer and former Socceroo, with an interest in Labour Law, Human Rights and Sports Law. He also holds an MBA from Macquarie Graduate School of Management.
Alan Oster joined the National Australia Bank in 1992 from the Federal Treasury where he worked for 15 years - his special field being economic forecasting and monetary policy.
Given he’s currently broadcasting the equivalent of an angry man YouTube channel from a cupboard somewhere, I’m not sure people in NSW would even see him as influential anymore.
John Laws talking to nobody on 2SM would probably rate higher in terms of influence.
This week on Q+A… we meet the woman who took on a corporate giant over clean water – and won. Single mother Erin Brockovich started a crusade against the utility company contaminating a town’s water supply. The case ended with a historic settlement and Erin’s life immortalised on the silver screen.
So how can communities make change? In a world where it’s easy to feel powerless in the face of big business, climate change and natural disasters – what can people do to take back control? As the east coast prepares for more flooding and Sydney records its biggest-ever annual rainfall, how can people make a difference?
Australia is marking a solemn anniversary, 20 years since the devastating Bali bombings that took so many lives and left families and communities shattered. As the global situation grows more precarious, what have we learnt in the last two decades?
Meanwhile the religious discrimination bill is again in focus amid the Essendon Football Club chief executive debacle. Is it time to revisit the legislation? Does Australia need a bill of rights?
Erin Brockovich is a consumer advocate and environmental activist who was instrumental in building a direct action case against Pacific Gas & Electric over groundwater contamination.
Stephen Jones is the Federal Member for Whitlam and Assistant Treasurer and Minister for Financial Services.
Perin Davey grew up in Canberra, but chose to move to the regions where she feels more at home. She currently lives on the Billabong Creek near Deniliquin raising her two daughters with husband John.
Rev Tim Costello is one of Australia’s most respected community leaders and a sought after voice on social justice issues, leadership and ethics. Tim Costello 2022
Dr Saba Vasefi is a multi-award-winning scholar-journalist and documentary filmmaker. She teaches at the University of Sydney and Macquarie University.
This week on Q+A… as we approach budget season, we examine whether Australia can become an economic superpower in a cleaner, greener world – and at what cost. With floods again devastating communities across several states, and more wild weather forecast… the Treasurer is warning that the latest disaster will have an impact on the budget bottom line – and our hip pockets.
Economist Ross Garnaut joins the panel – he argues a successful transition will shift Australia from a laggard to a leader on climate – and will restore the nation’s prosperity “after a decade of stagnation of living standards”. But just how fair will the transition be? And will some parts of society benefit more than others? Energy bills are already tipped to soar, so will households end up paying the price?
And what impact is China’s drought having on the rest of the world? Even as President Xi Jinping moves to cement his premiership, the country is facing economic headwinds that will likely reverberate around the world.
Q+A is live from Melbourne on Thursday, October 20 at 8.30pm AEDT.
Chris Bowen entered Parliament in 2004 and has held a wide range of portfolios including serving as Treasurer, Minister for Human Services, and Minister for Immigration.
Ross Garnaut is an Emeritus Professor in Economics at The Australian National University and an Emeritus Professor in Business and Economics at the University of Melbourne.
Yun Jiang is the inaugural AIIA China Matters Fellow. She was the co-founder and editor of China Neican, and a managing editor of the China Story blog at the Australian Centre on China in the World.
Varsha Yajman is an Indian-Australian climate justice and mental health youth advocate and has been an organiser for School Strike for Climate and the Australian Youth Climate Coalition.
A local Maribyrnong resident, the Mayor Cr Anthony Tran is serving his first term on Council having grown up in the area.
