Plus, Anthony Albanese navigates the tricky optics of another international diplomacy event at the pre-COP in Fiji, as the government fights suggestions the summit was a flop.

And what does a major High Court ruling on scope three emissions mean for the future of Australia's coal industry?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Ron Mizen, political correspondent at The Australian Financial Review 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 then it's over to your brilliant questions, including: Is it bad for brand for Anthony Albanese to snap selfies with Donald Trump?

Are Community Strong a new threat on Labor's right? Why isn't the Coalition's policy return bracket creep cutting through — and what does that say about the party leader Angus Taylor?

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

Got a burning question?

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

A war over words emerged over a discrepancy in the "emphasis" RBA Governor and Treasurer Jim Chalmers placed on the war in the Middle East.

Labor struggled to land a message that connected with voters and they also lost some of their political mojo along the way. So, is this just a run of the mill midterm slump?

And it's not just the Opposition holding the Albanese Government's feet to the fire over cost-of-living, with new Greens leader David Shoebridge focusing his stump speech on the economy and vowing to replace Labor.

But not everyone in the Greens is fully behind the new leadership, with NSW Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi making her disappointment known.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Charles Croucher, Chief Political Editor for 9News 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

So, as debate rages at the UN General Assembly over the need for AI safeguards, do the optics of the situation help Anthony Albanese's case?

It's been a big week on the global stage for the PM, as he brushes shoulders with leaders of fellow middle powers and even managed to snap a selfie with US President Donald Trump. But back home, are voters taking notice?

Meanwhile, Treasurer Jim Chalmers whipped out his crystal ball and delivered a forecast on what Australia will look like in 40-years and it's not a rosy picture for younger generations.(Clare and Ryan have some serious existential dread to share)

It comes as the Opposition has vowed to "take a chainsaw" to Labor's climate and energy agenda, promising to repeal a swag of climate and energy policies within 30 days if elected. So, is this just a response to One Nation?

And speaking of One Nation, Barnaby Joyce suggested partnership talks between the minor party and Coalition were back in frame.

Coalition MPs quickly lined up to shoot that idea down, but, could it become a political and mathematical reality for the parties of the right?

Fran Kelly and Clare Armstrong are joined by Ryan Heath, Launch Editor of Politico Australia on The Party Room.Read PK's analysis here The economy needs migration and data centres. Voters hate both

Got a burning question?

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

PK is still mad she didn't get to choose George Michael as her expert subject on Mastermind, but host and friend of the quiz show Marc Fennell dials in to commiserate and offer some advice.

And as Fran reveals her special subject, she learns about the 'John Howard bingo' the team has been playing behind the scenes.

Then it's onto your brilliant questions, including; Do politicians leave the talking points behind on podcasts? Will Pauline Hanson be included in the next leaders' debate? And should politicians avoid attacking the One Nation leader personally?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are answer your questions on The Party Room: Question Time edition.

Got a burning question?

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

It comes after One Nation kicked off the week with details on their immigration policy and as the Coalition finalises the details of it's own plan.

So, while all three-parties are on a unity ticket about reducing temporary immigration, there's key political distinctions in who they are each targeting, and how.

And Pauline Hanson has given a very qualified apology after telling a podcast Aboriginal Australians were the “most primitive race on earth", declaring she's sorry if anyone was offended. 

It comes amid a string of other remarks which have been widely condemned and it seems the scrutiny has the One Nation leader feeling the heat.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Karen Middleton, political journalist and columnist for The Monthly 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

All sides laid out their pitches to win over voters; Labor's Digital Duty of Care, One Nation's pitch for early super access and the Coalition's proposal to ban burning the flag.

Meanwhile, Liberal frontbencher Andrew Hastie took the fight directly to One Nation this week, labelling Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce "lying cowards" over a One Nation cartoon that called him a "traitor" — over his involvement in the Ben Roberts-Smith defamation trial.

Coalition MPs have lined up to back in Andrew Hastie. So, has it given them something to coalesce around? And has it placed Pauline Hanson on the wrong side of a culture war?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Phil Coorey, political editor at the AFR 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 then it's onto your brilliant questions! Will the floods in Nepal renew the focus on climate change? Why are politicians so focused on NOM immigration? And aside from Australian politics, what expert subject would Fran and PK choose?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly break it all down on The Party Room: Question Time edition.

🎧Listen to Fran's IV with Coogee shark hero Charlie Verco here

Got a burning question?

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

One Nation's decisive victory at the WA state by-election of Secret Harbour came with a message for Anthony Albanese and Federal Labor — so are they listening? And how are they positioning?

And a war over words broke out this week, after One Nation leader Pauline Hanson accused the PM of inciting violence by labelling far-right populist parties "divisive, dangerous and downright dishonest".

There was pushback across the political spectrum, with some including conservative Liberal MP Garth Hamilton calling out the "hypocrisy at play".

Meanwhile, online safety was back up in lights as the Albanese Government looks to introduce draft legislation on a digital duty of care in coming weeks.

And the Coalition has announced its new tobacco policy, which would slash the tobacco excise by 80 per cent. So, will the policy have cut through, and does it put pressure on the Government?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Jason Koutsoukis, The Saturday Paper's special correspondent 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

Fran, PK and Ash Raper certainly think so. As Ash tells PK and Fran, it was a bit like a big family gathering you brace for but that ends up being highly uneventful.

Queensland and the Northern Territory secured carve outs on the energy used for AI data centre development, but has Anthony Albanese set them a bit of a challenge when it comes to lowering energy costs?

And while the WA GST deal has been up in lights this week, a state by-election in the once safe Labor electorate of Secret Harbour is being watched closely in Canberra, as One Nation looks like they could win.

Meanwhile, One Nation has been in clean-up mode, clarifying their immigration policy after Farrer MP David Farley's Insiders interview. But does the mop-up harm them, or are voters more focused on the "vibe"?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Ashleigh Raper, Network 10 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

Then they get stuck into your brilliant questions, including:

Will AI deepfakes be a big risk at the next election? It comes as Australia's corporate watchdog ASIC this week confirmed Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is the figure most frequently used in deepfake scams and as Independent Zali Stegall proposed a bill to require AI-generated content that could mislead voters to be clearly identified.

And should Prime Ministers and Federal Ministers 'retire' to local politics? And have they ever done so? Fran and PK have big thoughts.

Also, has the link between immigration and housing been overstated in the current political climate?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer your clever questions on The Party Room: Question Time Edition.Listen to our 'premium' Thursday ep here 🎧: A big week of dealmaking

Got a burning question?

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

But it seems the big battles are only just beginning, with the implementation of the changes presenting a key challenge for Labor.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Penny Wong has hauled the Israeli Ambassador in for a meeting to express Australia's disappointment after Israel cleared the soldiers who were involved in a strike that killed Australian aid worker Zomi Frankcom in April 2024.

Penny Wong has declared a "difficult time" in the relationship between Australia and Israel, saying there are "unanswered questions" about the strikes.

And there's a super scare campaign brewing in the Labor party, after One Nation suggested access to superannuation be lightened up. So, is Treasurer Jim Chalmers onto a winner here?

Tobacco tax is also back in the spotlight, with One Nation suggesting the tobacco excise is cut by 75 per cent to curb a rampant black market.

NSW Labor Premier Chris Minns is also onboard will reducing the price of legal tobacco, so is he "100 per cent wrong" as frontbencher Tanya Plibersek suggested?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Charles Croucher, Chief Political Editor at 9News 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

Shadow Housing Minister Andrew Bragg delivered a "loosey-goosey" and far-ranging speech ostensibly focused on housing reform.

But the Senator's signature blunt style may have seen him step on some of his colleagues' toes along the way.

Meanwhile, the PM was dogged by the so called "melon-gate" saga and calls for him to issue an apology to the Japanese Prime Minister — calls he appears to be staring down.

And One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce made a bold call, telling PK that One Nation is the "gayest" party in Australian politics.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Katina Curtis, Senior Political Correspondent with Capital Brief 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

A scandalous text sent by the ACT Opposition leader has raised a whole host of questions, including whether or not politicians are allowed to find their jobs boring.

And the brewing fight between the Albanese Government and its NT and QLD counterparts over AI data centres.

Then it's time for your questions, including are Labor failing to sell their policies? Will Anthony Albanese shake-up his frontbench before the next election? And how do journalists maintain neutrality?

Patricia Karvelas and Melissa Clarke are answer your clever queries on The Party Room: Question Time edition.

Got a burning question?

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

A two-day parliamentary inquiry into gambling dominated the agenda, hardening political opposition to Labor's gambling bill and mounting pressure on Anthony Albanese to go further — so will he?

Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke's last minute press club cancellation became a story in and of itself. The Minister was set to unveil sweeping immigration changes, which are reportedly hitting internal roadblocks.

It comes as Pauline Hanson once again banned the ABC, The Guardian and the Age from a One Nation event. It's far from the first time, so how should the media respond — and is this just about dominating the attention economy once again?

And in developing news, prominent Labor figure and maverick backbencher Ed Husic has announced he'll take leave, after a car accident.

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Tom McIlroy, Political Editor at the Guardian on The Party Room.

And Victorian politics that stole much of the spotlight this week, but will a leadership change be enough for Victorian Labor to reset ahead of the state election? And how is Federal Labor viewing the chaos?

And the Albanese Government has confirmed the fuel excise cut will come to an end this weekend.

It comes as inflation comes in cooler for the June quarter, but Treasurer Jim Chalmers has acknowledged there is more to do — so should we expect a bit of a bumpy road ahead?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Tom Crowley, ABC economics reporter 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

Including, are the seating arrangements in parliament strategic for the cameras? What do the Presidents of political parties actually do? Why don't political parties in Australia use political manifestos like they do in the UK? And are there tensions between pollies and public servants?

And later, PK and David Speers will bring you their hot takes from on the ground at Labor's national conference.

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

Got a burning question?

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

Pauline Hanson's podcast interview with far-right UK agitator Tommy Robinson is making waves — including it seems, within the One Nation itself.

The One Nation leader suggested her daughter Lee Hanson had the "potential" to be a future leader of the party, so where does this leave Barnaby Joyce?

And what's the history of Royal Commissions in Australia and when do they work best? We asked an expert.

And while housing has dominated the political agenda, what impact is our aging population having on demand?

Could older people house sharing offer a solution and importantly, what kind of roommates were PK and Fran? (spoiler: one of them was very protective of their butter!)

And could an Australian MP pull a "stunt" like Nigel Farage? PK and Fran don't think so — and they also feel VERY differently about Count Binface.

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

Listen here to Royal commissions in Australia — when have they made a difference?

Listen here toLabor's AI plan and Hanson's holiday

Got a burning question?

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

But was the announcement of National AI standards a bit of an "about face" from the PM, after what was previously seen as a hands-off approach to AI regulation from the Government?

And One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has been meeting with a series of fringe figures across the UK and has now been spotted in a resort in Sicily with mining magnate Gina Rinehart.

So, how are the optics of the Pauline Hanson rubbing shoulders with far-right figures like Tommy Robinson playing with recent One Nation converts back home?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Ronald Mizen, AFR Political Correspondent 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

While a Chinese missile test threatened to overshadow the diplomacy tour, was the destabilising move actually a "cherry-on-top" for Australia — pushing Pacific nations closer to us?

Back home, the fallout from the Telstra outage is continuing and so are the politics. So, did the Opposition "jump the shark?"

And of course there was THAT podcast appearance and subsequent "unequivocal apology" from the PM this week. So, what are the risks for politicians trying to engage in new media to reach voters?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Stephen Dziedzic, ABC Foreign Affairs Asia Pacific Reporter 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

But before Fran and PK tackle your "top-notch" queries, Fran checks in on PK after TV series Ponies was cancelled after just one season — luckily she still has The West Wing to rewatch. But they both agree the best thing on our screens at the moment is The World Cup, go the Socceroos (otherwise known as the 'Mantildas')!

Then it's time for Partyroomers questions, including: the politics of house prices, do people follow how-to-vote cards? Have politicians undervalued the arts? And what lower house seat could Pauline Hanson run for?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer your clever questions The Party Room: Question Time edition.

Listen to Thursday's episode here 🎧 Labor cleans off the barnacles

Listen here to 🎧 Antony Green on the tests ahead for One Nation

Got a burning question?

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

They pressed their luck introducing gambling ad restrictions to parliament, but it seems the Greens and Coalition will send the legislation to an inquiry.

Meanwhile, the housing debate is still taking up lots of oxygen, as auction clearance rates hit six-year lows. Labor is holding their nerve and betting the house their budget tax changes will pay-off in the long run.

And the soul-searching has continued for the Liberals this week, after Newspoll saw the Coalition's primary support slip to a historic low of 17 per cent.

So, while parliament goes on break, will all sides of politics be keeping their foot on the accelerator?

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

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auIf you or anyone you know needs help, contact:

• National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858
• Lifeline on 13 11 14
• Headspace on 1800 650 890

Labor is set to pass its negative gearing and capital gains tax budget changes with the support of the Greens, granting only minor concessions in exchange.

Meanwhile, the terms monoculture and multicultural have echoed through the chambers of parliament this week. Opposition leader Angus Taylor found himself in hot water after side-stepping a series of questions about his support for the ideas.

But he's not the only politician having to do some clean up, with One Nation leader Pauline Hanson declaring the Socceroos are actually an example of mono-culturalism, to some raised eyebrows in the Senate.

And the idea of a so-called teal party has become a reality, but while Zali Steggall and Allegra Spender have launched Community Strong, how will it actually work?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by David Speers 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

So, before they answer your clever questions they dig into the response to Labor's capital gains tax carve-outs, the latest from the US-Iran ceasefire and of course Gina Rinehart's curious orange bulldozer stunt.

And then it's over to the partyroomers! Does Labor need more outspoken backbenchers? Will One Nation stand-up to the scrutiny of an election campaign? Are politicians speaking to renters? And why are data centres facing some backlash?

Patricia Karvelas and Melissa Clarke answer your queries on The Party Room: Question Time edition.

Catch up on Thursday's ep here: Annabel Crabb on a doozy of a week

Got a burning question?

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

Meanwhile, One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has delivered her first National Press Club address in her 30-years in politics — so why did she take to the podium now?

And how are Labor and the Coalition positioning as more scrutiny falls on the surging minor party?

Patricia Karvelas and Annabel Crabb break it all downon The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

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

So what should we make of it all? Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly are joined by Katina Curtis, Canberra Bureau Chief at the West Australian to discuss everything from the NDIS inquiry to the continuing attempts to sell the Budget measures and discussion around Coalition preferences to One Nation. 

Got a burning question?

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

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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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.

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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.

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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

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.

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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.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.

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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

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. 

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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

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

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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

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.

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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

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

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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

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.

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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

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.

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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 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 

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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

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

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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

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/

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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

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