The Issue is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of politics and global affairs. Hosted by seasoned political reporters Tim Lester and Josh Martin, the show offers insightful analysis, sharp commentary, and thoughtful discussion on the biggest stories shaping our world today. From the halls of Parliament to international summits, The Issue covers a wide range of topics - national policy debates, geopolitical tensions, election cycles, social movements, and more. Each episode breaks down the news of the week, helping listeners make sense of complex developments and what they mean for the future. Whether you're a political junkie or just trying to stay informed, The Issue is your go-to source for clear, intelligent, and engaging political conversation.

May's federal budget could pit property investors and first home buyers against each other. The Albanese Government isn't ruling out major changes to the capital gains tax discount. Greens Senators would have the deciding vote and tell 7News podcast The Issue they're willing to negotiate. New modelling from the Parliamentary Budget Office shows the tax concession will cost taxpayers $247 billion over the next decade. Tasmania Senator Nick McKim sits down for this week's episode.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Issue

Property Investors vs First Home Buyers: The tax debate dominating Canberra ahead of the budget 

Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott sits down with National Security correspondent Tim Lester for an in-depth interview covering Australia's most pressing political issues. They discuss the current state of the Liberal Party, the coalition split, whether he supports Sussan Ley's leadership, and Abbott's views on the Trump administration.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tony Abbott on Liberal leadership crisis, Trump and Australia's future

The Australian Coalition faces its most serious crisis in decades. In this exclusive episode of The Issue, host Tim Lester sits down with two Coalition veterans - former Nationals leader Michael McCormack and Liberal Senator Richard Colbeck - as they reveal what's really happening behind the scenes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Coalition in crisis: Liberal & National leaders speak out on historic split

The Coalition has broken apart just days after One Nation eclipsed it in the first Newspoll of 2026. The Issue sits down with One Nation convert Barnaby Joyce to discuss the party's prospects ahead of the 2028 election. Political Reporter Josh Martin grills the former National Party MP on hate laws, immigration, energy, his relationship with Pauline Hanson, and complimentary flights from billionaire Gina Rinehart.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Will a resurgent One Nation, with Barnaby Joyce onboard, become Australia’s opposition party or even take government?

Trevor Baucom, a U.S. Black Hawk pilot who flew alongside Australian special forces, recounts the brutal battles and life‑or‑death moments he faced in Afghanistan. From landing commandos under heavy fire to surviving a crash that left him initially reported as killed in action, Trevor shares a rare perspective from inside the cockpit. Years later, still living with the consequences, he works to honour the men who didn't make it home. 
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The chaos, the intelligence failures, and the split‑second decisions that shaped one of Australia’s fiercest fights of the war.

High visa fees and a political push - behind the downturn. 
 Politicians like Pauline Hanson and Andrew Hastie want further cuts and will campaign hard. 
 But Phil Honeywood from the international education sector argues foreign students are good for the economy, workforce, tourism and international relations. 
 The CEO of the International Education Association of Australia is this week's guest on The Issue. 
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Home

Search

Sign up for free to listen for longer

Home

Search

Sign up for free to listen for longer

The Issue