But after some very important TV chat, they get stuck into some brilliant listener questions, including:

Does the parliamentary attendance record of politicians matter? Why haven't the Greens capitalised on the populist wave like One Nation has? And how do the texting arrangements between political journalists and politicians actually work?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer your clever queries on this Question Time edition of The Party Room.

Listen to Thursday's The Party Room ep here

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

It comes as AUKUS "awkwardness" is continuing for Labor, so will the issue continue to kick off at the Labor conference next month — or will the Government nip it in the bud before then?

And One Nation's mainstreaming is continuing, with Pauline Hanson locking in a leaders address at the National Press Club after an explosive new Redbridge poll in the AFR showed One Nation was the most popular party in Australia.

And back in the parliament, the Albanese Government has passed their first tranche of budget tax reforms through the house, but the Greens and Coalition have raised concerns about what they say are "god-like" discretionary tax changes after they become law. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has dismissed the criticism as a "beat-up" but are they in for a battle ahead in the Senate?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Charles Croucher, Chief Political Editor at Nine News on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

The Greens have called for a short-burst inquiry into the bill but seem to be signalling a willingness to support the measures. So, after a week of fierce backlash from the small business community, has Labor managed to pull the focus back to housing?

Meanwhile, another cohort of IS-linked women and children have returned to Australia from Syria this week, causing some political friction for Labor and possibly feeding into One Nation leader Pauline Hanson's platform.

And while speculation about a so-called 'teal party' was the talk of the town at the beginning of the week, it seems the idea has run out of steam already.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent at The Conversation and professorial fellow and University of Canberra on The Party Room.

Hear Michelle Grattan's IV with Keith Wolahan here.

Hear Fran on Radio National Hour here.

Watch PK on Afternoon Briefing here.

Editor's note: This podcast was recorded prior to the AFP confirming a 34 year-old Melbourne woman, who returned from a Syrian detention camp last year, has been charged with terrorism offences.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Labor’s budget pitch is still making headlines - but it may not be happy about all of them.

First, PK and Clare Armstrong unpack the breaking news overnight of another possible return of ISIS-linked Australian women and children from Syria, as well as the fallout over Australian activists detained by Israel while aboard a flotilla headed to Gaza.

Then, it’s a bonus Question Time: Budget special!

Is Labor going big on reform because it expects to negotiate later? How do pre-budget leaks and “speculation” actually make their way into the media? Where could any budget windfall end up? And could blocked legislation ever trigger a double dissolution?

Plus - why do politicians still struggle to explain big economic decisions clearly, and is there still a path back for moderate Liberal voters?

Patricia Karvelas and Clare Armstong break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

While Labor billed this as a "housing reform budget", did they fail to lay the groundwork for broader taxation changes — and have they lost control of the narrative?

And Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson has capitalised on the discontent, laying out vision that backs and rewards "self-starters". So, has he offered up an economic lifeline for Liberals?

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Phil Coorey, AFR Political Editor on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

PK tells Fran and David Speers, as the two budgets and two different visions for Australia take shape, there's a sense of real contest and a "battle for who people can win over".  David says the Albanese Government's Budget is the "most reforming budget" in decades, with previous governments have been resistant to creating "winners and losers". 

And in the immediate wash-up of budget night, he says Labor is feeling upbeat that they've "finally got something to fight for".So, will Labor reap the rewards of the political risk? Or will the Coalition's message cut through?

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by David Speers, ABC's political lead on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auREFERENCES: Read David's analysis here

Catch up on PK's IV with the PM here

Catch up on Fran's economic wrap of the budget here

And speaking of budgets, is Treasurer Jim Chalmer's fifth set to be more exciting than the others? Well, PK admits she's excited at the "opening of a can" but both her and Fran agree that with promise of this being a big reforming budget, it's more closely watched than usual.

And when should politicians change their mind — and when is it just 'dishonest'? Why has the PM linked a gas profits tax to shoring up fuel supply overseas? And what's the Coalition's 'strategy' on One Nation?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer your clever queries on this special Question Time edition of The Party Room.Catch-up on the LIVE SHOW on ABC Listen or on Apple here or on Spotify here.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

To celebrate a whole decade of the podcast, they were joined on stage by special guests Lenore Taylor and Casey Briggs to reflect on how Australian politics has shifted over the last 10 years , and where things are headed next.

So, with the Farrer by-election looming, is the Coalition legitimising One Nation by preferencing them? And as voter demographics in Australia shift, with Millennials and Gen Z now the largest voting bloc, is the time right for the slow and steady Albanese Government to be brave on budget night?

And PK lets us in on a little secret … because it turns out "everybody is going politics hot" — so what does that mean?

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Lenore Taylor, Journalist and Author and Casey Briggs, ABC Chief Elections Analyst for The Party Room LIVE!

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Inflation has dramatically spiked, the Prime Minister has effectively ruled out a gas profits tax and housing reforms are starting to take shape. But as Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson continue their battle of the barbs, Shane Wright has a few Kate Bush inspired suggestions for the budget playlist.

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Shane Wright, senior economics correspondent for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald on The Party Room.

Read Shane's piece on the capital gains tax here

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Including, what does the preparation for election night look like behind the scenes? Why is Queensland the only state without an Upper House/Senate? Are Gen Z men still leaning left? And is expanding the size of parliament a good idea?

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

So, has Prime Minister Anthony Albanese finally used some of his political capital with the "bold" reforms? And what are the political risks, as many in the disability community remain alarmed about the implications from the overhaul?

Meanwhile, momentum is growing for a gas profits tax, with an unlikely political grouping all supporting the push. However, as the PM looks to shore-up fuel security in the region, has he gone cold on the idea?

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Sarah Ferguson, ABC 730 Host on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Watch Sarah's IV with Health Minister Mark Butler here: https://iview.abc.net.au/video/SEGS2026106594290Catch up on Afternoon Briefing here: https://iview.abc.net.au/show/afternoon-briefingCatch up on The Radio National Hour:https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/the-radio-national-hour

So, is the Albanese Government's boost to defence spending the right move — or at least a sign they're "on the right track"? And as Anthony Albanese continues his regional "petro-diplomacy" with visits to Brunei and Malaysia — is securing supply now even more important due to the Corio refinery fire?

Patricia Karvelas and Jacob Greber are joined by Peter Hartcher, Chief Political and International Editor at the SMH and the Age The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Get free tickets to THE PARTY ROOM LIVE SHOW here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/10-years-of-the-party-room-tickets-1987025124637?aff=oddtdtcreator

Does the political centre shift over time? Are the 24-hour news cycle and social media diluting the quality of legislation? And is populism the answer, or just a symptom of our fracturing global order?

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

PK and Fran's TV watchlist:

PK - Ponies, on BingeFran - Tehran, on Apple TV+Landman, on Paramount+

It comes amid lots of "pump priming" from the government, as Labor tries to "take the sting" out of petrol prices and keep small businesses afloat. The big price tags come ahead of Treasurer Jim Chalmers' fifth budget in May, which the PM has reiterated will be "ambitious".

And as the US-Iran conflict continues to rage, Labor seems to have shifted its language towards de-escalation.

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Katina Curtis, Canberra Bureau Chief at the West Australian on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Tickets to our live show will be announced SOON! Watch this space!!

As other Labor frontbenchers strike a similar tone, PK tells Fran Labor Ministers have become "rolled gold experts" at not being drawn into the US President's remarks.

And PK and Fran cap off a "binfire week" with their favourite good news stories — and get stuck into all your clever questions, including..

Who will be the Opposition in South Australia? When do major parties lose that status? How are the Greens meeting the current political moment? And with the current fuel woes, are renewables the answer?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer all of your clever questions on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

And as the reverberations from One Nation's success at the South Australian election continue to ricochet federally, Labor is also feeling the heat. Health Minister Mark Butler used a Dorothy Dixer in Question Time to point to One Nation's lack of Medicare policy, so are they now treating One Nation as part of a quasi-Opposition?

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas break it down on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auHear Fran's IV with Allegra Spender here: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/the-radio-national-hour/allegra-spender/106487930

So, could this election be an "extinction level event" for the SA Liberals? And could the minor party also take some shine off the Labor Malinauskus Government?

Meanwhile, National Cabinet has met with the Prime Minister announcing a national fuel supply taskforce coordinator. It comes as the RBA hikes rates and the fallout from the war in the Middle East continues to hit home.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

And what role are algorithms and echo chambers playing in voter behaviour?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer all of your clever questions on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Listen to Thursday's episode with Michelle Grattan here: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/politics-now/a-big-week-of-resignations/106372862

And with the Albanese Government announcing a "purely defensive" deployment to the UAE, Iranian soccer players seeking asylum in Australia, Matt Canavan becoming the new Nationals leader after David Littleproud's shock exit — and now former ASIO boss Dennis Richardson stepping down from his Royal Commission role, there's certainly been lots on the agenda.

Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent at the Conversation and Professorial fellow and University of Canberra joined Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly to wade through it all on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Listen to Michelle's IV with the RBA Deputy Governor here: https://theconversation.com/politics-with-michelle-grattan-middle-east-war-set-to-push-inflation-higher-than-forecast-warns-rba-deputy-governor-277959

Watch PK's IV with Matt Canavan here: https://iview.abc.net.au/show/afternoon-briefing/series/0/video/NU2622C028S00

And it comes as the Canadian Prime Minister, and fellow middle power ally, Mark Carney visits Australia. The world leader came armed with a warning, urging sovereignty as the global architecture is crumbling.

And how did new Opposition leader Angus Taylor perform for his first week in parliament?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Cameron Stewart, Chief International Correspondent at the Australian on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Are changes to negative gearing and capital gains actually politically risky for Labor? And as Anthony Albanese tries to 'mop up' after his Grace Tame misstep, are his political instincts as sharp as they once were?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer your questions on on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

The prime minister has attempted to walk back labelling former Australian of The Year Grace Tame "difficult", suggesting he was referring to her difficult life - a move Grace Tame has blasted on social media.

And Jacob Greber has been on the ground in Farrer, checking the electorates pulse ahead of the impending by-election - so what do voters want from their representative and where are they looking to cast their vote?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly  are joined by Jacob Greber, 730 Political Editor on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

And Angus Taylor has unveiled his new look shadow frontbench, so what does it signal about the Coalition's agenda? Are are we hearing the same messages, but just new 'stronger messengers'? 

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly  are joined by Phil Coorey, Political Editor at The Australian Financial Review  on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auWatch PK's Four Corners 'Realignment' here - https://iview.abc.net.au/show/four-corners/series/2026/video/NC2603H003S00Listen to the Politics Now: The Interview with Tim Wilson here -  https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/politics-now/politics-now-the-interview-tim-wilson/106148248

There was wonderfully nerdy wordplay ("the member for Hume and the member named Hume"), Farrer by-election analysis and a look at what parties are offering Gen Z and Millennial voters — who are the largest voting bloc.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auWatch PK's Four Corners 'Realignment' here - https://iview.abc.net.au/show/four-corners/series/2026/video/NC2603H003S00

And while the Albanese Government has been throwing barbs from the sidelines in Question Time, do they need to watch out for hubris?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly  are joined by Anna Henderson, SBS Chief Political Correspondent on The Party Room.Hear this week's bonus question time episode here: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/politics-now/big-personalities-protests-and-polling-/106326394

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Meanwhile, Liberal leader Sussan Ley has survived today's party room meeting, but Fran and PK say there's now an "unstoppable push" for change — so when will leadership aspirant Angus Taylor strike and will he land a mortal blow?

So, would Sussan Ley quit her seat of Farrer if she's overthrown as leader? Can we trust polling? And with One Nation gaining traction, have Labor done enough on immigration?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer your questions on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

It comes as the May budget draws nearer and it seems the Treasurer Jim Chalmers is unwilling to rule out changes to the capital gains tax. So, could big bold reform be on the agenda? Meanwhile, the deadline Sussan Ley imposed the Liberal and Nationals to negotiate a path back to Coalition is looming, so are either side willing to make concessions?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly break it all down with David Speers, ABC Political lead and host of Insiders on The Party Room

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

And why do some voters connect with Pauline Hanson? And what the deadline for choosing candidates for the election if the Coalition remains split? (ABC Chief Elections Analyst Casey Briggs makes a guest appearance to help us answer that one.)

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly  answer your question on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auLISTEN TO THE ANTONY GREEN EP HERE: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/politics-now/antony-green-on-one-nation-s-rise/105947830 READ ABC ANALYSIS HERE: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-01-29/coalition-pauline-hanson-liberals-nationals-one-nation/106278234

Sussan Ley is holding on, but pressure is building and Liberal party leadership questions remain unresolved following the Coalition's dramatic split last week. To add to the political drama, Nationals leader David Littleproud has faced his own unexpected leadership challenge, from Queensland backbencher Colin Boyce.

At the same time, One Nation is gaining traction - not just in the polls but in public life, as Pauline Hanson’s anti-immigration message reaches new platforms and audiences. Could they convert rising support into lower house seats?

And just as the government hoped to capitalise on opposition chaos, inflation figures have spiked - bringing the threat of another rate rise, and a potential shift in the political narrative. So what questions will be answered - and what new ones will be formed - as we head into the first full parliamentary sitting fortnight next week?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly break it all down with Melissa Clarke, ABC Radio National Breakfast political correspondent on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

So, where to next for the Liberals and the Nationals? Could the Nationals and One Nation form a new Coalition? Could the Liberal party regain votes in the centre?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer your questions on this special edition of The Party Room. 

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

It comes on the National Day of Mourning for Bondi, which was intended to be a day of unity and healing for the country. So, is this the end of the Coalition for good? And while questions are swirling about Sussan Ley's leadership, there are also questions about David Littleproud's hold on his position.

On a week where it looked like the Prime Minister would be in the hot seat, how did the Opposition again become the story?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent for The Conversation on The Party Room.Read PK's analysis here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-01-22/optics-diabolical-liberals-nationals-split-chaos-reigns/106256942

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

With a weakened Opposition, are the usual mechanisms to hold government to account working? And is the Albanese Government still "gun shy" when it comes to considering negative gearing or capital gains reform?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly get stuck into all of your curly questions for this special summer episode of The Party Room.Production note: This episode was recorded before the Bondi attack on December 14th.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

But while the Opposition has been calling for the parliament to be recalled since the horrific events on the 14th of December, they've now claimed the legislation has been rushed, with Opposition leader Sussan Ley signalling the Liberals won't back 'unsalvageable' hate crime and gun control reforms. So, does that put the Greens in the frame?

And a month after the social media ban for under 16s began, there's new data from the social media companies about how many under 16s have been removed from their platforms.Patricia Karvelas and Clare Armstrong are joined by Charles Croucher on The Party Room.

• Guest: Charles Croucher, 9News Political Editor

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Is Sussan Ley facing the glass cliff? Why has Peter Dutton disappeared from the media? And would moderate Liberals ever consider becoming independents and joining with the Teals?Production note: This episode was recorded before the Bondi attack on December 14th.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly get stuck into all of your curly questions for this special summer episode of The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

One Nation's support has surged, while Coalition support has slumped. So, are politicians, or policies, driving voter support?

And with the Millennial and Gen Z cohort the largest voter bloc and growing, are the major parties switched on to this changing electorate? And what are the trends and issues that could define politics in 2026?

Kos Samaras and Tony Barry from the Redbridge group join Fran Kelly for a special episode of The Party Room.Production note: This episode was recorded before the Bondi attack on December 14th.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

In this Canberra Theatre live show, recorded at the start of December, Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas were joined on stage by Jacob Greber to wrap up a massive year in politics — and look at where things are headed in 2026.

Anthony Albanese started the year staring down the prospect of election defeat but ended it with a thumping majority and Australia's own 'royal wedding'. While the Coalition faced the prospect of "extinction" after an election wipe-out, and new leader Sussan Ley struggled to find her feet amongst the infighting.

But as the cost-of-living bites, it's not all smooth sailing ahead for the Government. So will 2026 be the year for political bravery?Production note: This episode was recorded before the Bondi attack on December 14th.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

And as the horror of the Bondi terrorist attack continues to reverberate across the world, there's no doubt it's changed Australia, so has it also changed the political year ahead?

• Guest: Karen Middleton, Political Journalist and Contributor to the Monthly 

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

It comes as the Opposition prepares to unveil its immigration strategy, in a bid to claw back votes from One Nation. Speaking of One Nation, Barnaby Joyce has officially made the switch and will now sit as the One Nation MP for New England. As Fran Kelly and Sarah Ferguson discuss with Phil Coorey, the move also grants the group party status, but does it lend further legitimacy to the brand?

• Guest: Phil Coorey, Australian Financial Review Political Editor

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Meanwhile, two and half years after the bi-partisan Murphy review recommended a total ban on online gambling advertising, pressure is mounting on the Government to act. So, what's stopping them?

And the so-called 'jobs for mates' report has finally been handed down, and its findings were scathing. But will it change a culture that's entrenched for governments of both stripes?

• Guest: Anna Henderson, SBS Chief Political Correspondent 

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

And New England MP Barnaby Joyce is expected to announce he's defecting. So, was it Pauline Hanson's sandwich press steak that won him over? And the One Nation leader was also in the headlines for her burka stunt in the Senate, the move was roundly condemned, and she was censured and suspended from the Senate. But as One Nation surges in the polls, will the move prove too radical for swinging voters and shift them back to the centre?

• Guest: Tom McIlroy, Guardian Australia Editor

TICKETS TO OUR LIVE SHOW HERE: https://canberratheatrecentre.com.au/show/politics-now-live/

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Instead, a deal is being finalised with Türkiye that would see Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen take the presidency while Türkiye hosts the summit. It’s a major shift in a bid the government once sold as a big diplomatic win — so what happened?

Meanwhile, it’s that time of year again — what they call the 'killing season' in politics. There’s no move yet against Sussan Ley, but with net zero tensions still simmering inside the Liberal Party and state Liberals having their own issues, questions about leadership and direction are once again in play.

The Coalition is also shifting its focus to immigration — traditionally tricky terrain for Labor — and we unpack what is on the agenda when Parliament is back next week.

In the "ultimate handover episode" Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Mel Clarke on The Party Room to unpack it all.

TICKETS TO OUR LIVE SHOW HERE: https://canberratheatrecentre.com.au/show/politics-now-live/

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Patricia Karvelas and Mel Clarke get stuck into all of your curly questions on this The Party Room bonus episode.FILL OUT OUR SURVEY HERE: https://forms.office.com/r/rGwzw6Xu32

TICKETS TO THE LIVE SHOW HERE: https://canberratheatrecentre.com.au/show/politics-now-live/

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Mel for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Shadow Energy Minister Dan Tehan says the policy is about affordability, growing our economy and doing our 'fair share' — and while there are no targets reaching net zero would be "welcome". But does the policy behind the politics stack up? And is this an "overwhelming victory" for Liberal conservatives - and for the Nationals?

Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent for The Conversation joins Patricia Karvelas and Mel Clarke on The Party Room to unpack it all.

Fill out our survey here: https://forms.office.com/r/rGwzw6Xu32

TICKETS TO THE LIVE SHOW HERE: https://canberratheatrecentre.com.au/show/politics-now-live/

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Mel for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

And while the moderate and conservatives pull in different directions, the fallout has only further destabilised Sussan Ley's hold on the leadership. But as Jason Koutsoukis tells PK and Mel the events have also highlighted the "lack of respect" Coalition MPs are paying to the Opposition leader.

Meanwhile, recent comments from Liberal leadership hopeful Andrew Hastie have raised eyebrows. The WA MP has called for clarification that Baby Priya's Bill, which will force employers to not cancel parental leave after stillbirth or neonatal death, won't apply to late term abortions. So, does the move damage his future leadership chances?

• Guest: Jason Koutsoukis, Saturday Paper special correspondent 

Fill out our survey here: https://forms.office.com/r/rGwzw6Xu32

TICKETS TO THE LIVE SHOW HERE: https://canberratheatrecentre.com.au/show/politics-now-live/

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Mel for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

And Sussan Ley used parliament to call into question the prime minister's fashion choices this week, suggesting the Joy Division T-shirt Anthony Albanese wore had antisemetic connotations. So, was this "shirtgate" another example of overreach by the Opposition leader — and should she have been fully focused on inflation figures and cost of living instead?

It comes as conversations on net zero and energy policy positions ramp up in both the Nationals and Liberal party rooms. But there are no signs either side is willing to budge. And are the changes to the BOM website becoming a political issue?Clare Armstrong, ABC Chief Digital Political Reporter joins Patricia Karvelas and Mel Clarke on The Party Room.

TICKETS TO THE LIVE SHOW HERE: https://canberratheatrecentre.com.au/show/politics-now-live/

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Mel for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

And Opposition leader Sussan Ley hasn't reiterated her call for Kevin Rudd to step down as US Ambassador, after Liberal Senator Jane Hume described them as "churlish", so were the remarks overreach?

Meanwhile, maverick MP Barnaby Joyce is still yet to confirm if he'll resign from The Nationals and join One Nation — saying he doesn't want to be "salami sliced in or out". So, how will this all play out next week in parliament?

Katina Curtis, Canberra Bureau Chief at The West Australian joins PK and Mel Clarke on The Party Room.

It comes as Senior Liberal James Paterson has laid out his vision for the future of the party and cautioned against splitting. But the Coalition finds itself wedged between Pauline Hanson's One Nation and Nigel Farage's Reform on the right, and the Teals on the left - so can they find a middle path and stay together?

And as Anthony Albanese gets ready to head to the US, what's on the agenda for his long-awaited meeting with Donald Trump?

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Mel  for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auABC News Daily super explainer episode here: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/abc-news-daily/why-chalmers-caved-on-his-super-tax-for-the-rich/105890916

In question time, the heat was on Communication Minister Anika Wells over the outage. The Opposition took the opportunity to lob a barrage of pointed question her way, but did they manage to strike a blow?

And while the Coalition was eager to make the Government the story, Andrew Hastie's self-demotion to the backbench and a series of leaks that followed hung over the week like a bad smell. So, how long can the public infighting continue?Brett Worthington and Mel Clarke are joined by Charles Croucher, 9News Political Editor on The Party Room.

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But from the corridors of the UN to a mosque tour in the UAE - how did the prime minister perform on the global stage? And is Australia now more than just a "bit player" on matters in the Middle East?

Meanwhile,  it was Anthony Albanese's speech at the UK Labour Conference that saw eyebrows raised in the Opposition, with Sussan Ley suggesting the PM had "crossed a line". But was it fair game for a second term prime minister?

Brett Worthington and Melissa Clarke are joined by Matthew Knott, Foreign Affairs and National Security correspondent at The Sydney Morning Herald and The Age on The Party Room.

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But while he was affirming Australia's recognition of Palestine and spruiking Australia's social media ban for under 16s, broader global shifts were on display. 

So, how is Anthony Albanese navigating the new world order? And can he balance closer ties with Europe, while remaining in favour with Donald Trump?

And a video of Liberal MP Andrew Hastie and a 1969 Ford Falcon has caused quite a stir,  but what does it mean for Sussan Ley's hold on the leadership?

Brett Worthington and Melissa Clarke are joined by Michelle Grattan, Chief Political Correspondent at The Conversation and Professorial Fellow at the University of Canberra on The Party Room.

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The Opposition leader has delivered her first major economic speech since taking up the role. But how has her economic vision landed?Brett Worthington and Melissa Clarke are joined by Tom McIlroy, Guardian Australia Political Editor on The Party Room.

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So, as the factional battlelines are drawn what does this mean for Sussan Ley's authority?

Patricia Karvelas and Melissa Clarke are joined by Anna Henderson, SBS News Chief Political Correspondent to analyse how the saga has snowballed in the last week and where it leaves a deeply divided Liberal partyroom.

And Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been rubbing shoulders with world leaders at the Pacific Islands Forum, but is Labor trying to have it have it both ways when it comes to addressing climate change concerns in the Pacific?

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The deal was only made public via an end-of-week departmental upload, and the full cost could reach $2.5 billion. Why the silence, and what does it say about the politics of migration and dissent inside Labor right now?

Meanwhile, immigration has dominated the national conversation this week, with protests on the streets and language from the government and Opposition under scrutiny. Plus, aged care, and some controversial photo ops in China - there’s been plenty more in the background of this sitting week.

Patricia Karvelas and Melissa Clarke are joined by Phil Coorey, political editor for The Australian Financial Review to unpack a high-stakes week in federal politics on The Party Room.

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The biggest story by far? The government’s dramatic decision to downgrade ties with Iran after ASIO revealed credible evidence the regime orchestrated antisemitic attacks on Australian soil. The Prime Minister’s message was clear - aggression and interference won’t be tolerated. But the Opposition says it all came too late.

As that continues to unfold, a curious diplomatic moment has also raised eyebrows between Defence Minister Richard Marles and his US counterpart, despite a very public photo.

Patricia Karvelas and Melissa Clarke are joined by Network Ten Political Editor Ashleigh Raper to unpack a high-stakes week in federal politics on The Party Room.

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Also this week, Australia’s decision to recognise Palestinian statehood continues to reshape our foreign policy landscape. Diplomatic tensions with Israel are still simmering - but in the same week, Australia is also engaging in efforts to strengthen the rules-based international order, aligning itself with the Western response to the historic meeting between Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, and Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Patricia Karvelas and Melissa Clarke are joined by Guardian Australia’s Chief Political Correspondent Tom McIlroy to break down on The Party Room.

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Even the RBA’s rate cut - which had the Treasurer metaphorically dancing in the aisles - was quickly overshadowed by a warning from the RBA Governor: Australia’s productivity is falling faster than forecast. It’s shaping up as a summit with big stakes - and behind the scenes, there’s been a quiet tug of war over who owns it. Is this Anthony Albanese's policy agenda, or Jim Chalmers’ political stage?

All of that comes off the back of an historic announcement from the Prime Minister to begin the week - Australia will formally recognise Palestinian statehood, triggering diplomatic ripples at home and abroad.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Melissa Clarke, Radio National Breakfast political correspondent on The Party Room.

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Meanwhile, the jostling has begun ahead of Treasurer Jim Chalmers’ Economic Reform Roundtable, now less than two weeks away. What started as a narrow productivity summit has grown… or has it narrowed into something else entirely?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Paul Sakkal, Chief Political Correspondent, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald on The Party Room.

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Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

On home soil, political attention has been dominated by the upcoming productivity roundtable in August, with unions focusing their aim on the impact of AI on worker rights; and despite a lobby effort from "Big Wiggle", YouTube has been added to the social media ban mix.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Phil Coorey, Political Editor with the Australian Financial Review on The Party Room.

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Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

And speaking of fresh faces, the first speech from "giant killer" and Dickson MP Ali France nearly brought the whole parliament to tears, but her story also had Sarah Ferguson welling up on live TV.

And Sussan Ley's first Question Time as Opposition leader was her moment in the spotlight, but she was undermined by former Nationals leaders Barnaby Joyce and Michael McCormack, who are calling for the Nationals to ditch net zero.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Sarah Ferguson, ABC 730 Host on The Party Room.

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Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auWatch Ali France's 730 interview here - https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-07-22/ali-france-reflects-on-the-triumph-and-tragedy/105561104

 Laura Tingle joined The Party Room from a panda research base in Chengdu for some analysis (and panda chat).

And back home, the Albanese Government is signalling legislation to strip funding from childcare centres will be a top priority when parliament returns. So, how different will the parliament look when it returns next week?

Brett Worthington and Jade Macmillan are joined by Laura Tingle, ABC Global Affairs Editor on The Party Room.

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With this year's NAIDOC Week theme being The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, does the community want to see a new generation of First Nations leaders? And has the Minister for Indigenous Australians put truth telling back on the agenda?

Globally, Trump's newest tariff turmoil might cast a shadow over the Prime Minister's visit to China - and if the US government comes for the PBS, how will Australia respond to its most powerful ally? And back at home, there's a new report, and plan, to combat anti-Semitism.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Carly Williams, a Quandamooka woman and ABC’s National Indigenous correspondent on The Party Room.

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It comes after a Melbourne childcare worker was charged with over 70 offences — but while the Albanese Government has been "saying all the right things", is more action needed at a national level?

And Australia's first truth telling inquiry handed down its final report on Tuesday, the culmination of four long years of work. But are governments signalling a willingness to engage?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Anna Henderson, SBS World News Chief Political Correspondent on The Party Room.

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And the Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has been choosing his words carefully, eager to not be seen as a "central player" in the regional conflict — with the Opposition labelling him "flat-footed." But is that a fair call?

And as European nations agree to increase defence spending to 5 per cent, largely to appease the US President — will the Prime Minister's approach of progressive patriotism come under increasing pressure from Donald Trump?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by John Lyons, ABC Americas Editor on The Party Room.

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