The Conversation Hour
Expect engaging discussions with real people and inspiring stories connecting communities across Victoria, on The Conversation Hour with Richelle Hunt and Jonathon Kendall.
Episodes
Fighting the shame around being scammed
You may have seen actor Christie Whelan-Browne social media post detailing her experience of falling victim to a vehicle scam referred to as carnapping. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at just how far this practice and also explore how to reduce the shame associated with it.Also in this edition, what underpins the poor snow season, the latest on the Straight of H
Are you finding it tricky to navigate aged care fees?
The Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission has received almost 200 complaints about aged care service charges and and fees to residents the this year. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss how to improve the transparency of the fee structure, what services could and should constitute standard care in contrast to premium services and what the regulator should be doi
Celebrating NAIDOC week and Fifty Years of Deadly
In this edition of the Conversation Hour Daniel James is joined by Djaran Murray-Jackson, Co-Chair of Gellung Warl, to talk Treaty and what the NAIDOC theme Fifty Years of Deadly means to him.Also in this edition, Aunty Professor Lynette Riley Co-Chair of the National NAIDOC Committee, discusses how the committee landed on this years NAIDOC theme.Plus, Daniel chats with two of th
The impact of the Telstra on Victorian communities
As Telstra experiences a widespread network outage in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the impact on Victorian communities from business to transport, and also look at how the outage highlights the importance of having cash.Also in this edition, from Wimbledon to the World Cup — how are the big international tournaments affecting you? From when you sleep, to what
Reducing side effects stigma for women going through cancer treatment
New research has revealed that women are enduring pain and discomfort from gynaecological side effects from cancer treatments due to the stigma associate with the conditions. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with the report author about the need for health care workers to be more proactive in discussing the side effects, to ensure their patients health and wellbe
Ensuring player safety in suburban footy
With the devastating news that Epping footy player Nathan Fitzgerald is on end of life care after suffering head injuries, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss calls for an investigation into how hard cricket pitches are covered on multi-use community sporting ovals.Also in this edition, a peak behind the curtains at the Australian Ballet, what it takes to be a cel
Does the gambling reform legislation go far enough?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour Kirsten Diprose is joined by anti-gambling advocate Tim Costello who shares how he thinks the federal government gambling reforms could be improved.Also in this edition, we talk life at 60, plus cross to the States for all the latest on the rumoured Taylor Swift wedding at Madison Square Garden.
How in sync are you with the 'social clock'?
It's commonly understood that there are certain unofficial markers we are meant to hit at a certain age, from getting your drivers licence to buying house. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what underpins those social pressures and how to combat the anxiety these social expectations can create.Plus, a new KPMG study says the debate is settled and that current Au
Reducing stigma toward people who experience mental health challenges
A new report into the stigma and discrimination experienced by people with mental health challenges has highlighted that negative attitudes remain an ongoing issue, despite growing awareness about complex mental health conditions. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we hear from someone who lives with schizophrenia plus National Mental Health Commission to explore what under
New school education program tackles stigma around women's health
A new program, jointly funded by federal and state governments, will see specialist pelvic health educators visit schools to discuss women's health issues such as endometriosis, periods and pelvic pain. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what this means for reducing the mystery and stigma about women's health.Also in this edition, concerns for residents of long-t
How is the shifting property market impacting your plans?
As auction clearance rates and house prices fall, in this edition of The Conversation Hour, we ask how these changes are impacting you?Also in this edition, what it is to live with young onset dementia and the new resource for people recently diagnosed. Plus, why Madonna's biopic was scrapped.If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia
A Socceroos special
In this edition of the Conversation Hour we bring you all the action as the Socceroos gear up to compete against Paraguay. Plus, we talk the legaliteis of taking a sickie.
Zali Steggall talks Community Strong Australia
Independents Allegra Spender and Zali Steggall have teamed up to form a new party which they have called Community Strong Australia. In this edition of The Conversation Hour Ms Steggall reflects on what the party will stand for and how the party will work, plus we get analysis from author and former adviser to Julia Gillard and Kevin Rudd, Sean Kelly.Also in this edition, a woman
New study points to lack of evidence that IVF add-ons are are effective
A new study from The University of Melbourne has found there is a lack of evidence that IVF add-ons improve fertility. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we take a look at the research and discuss what resources are available to women to make informed decisions around treatment.Also in this edition, how much does emotional labour lead to work burnout? Plus, as Daryl Braith
Does authenticity in politics matter?
UK PM Keir Starmer has resigned, and ex-Manchester mayor Andy Burnham is favoured to take over role. Some commentary has focused on the role of charisma in the rise as a determinant of political success and in this edition of The Conversation Hour we ask how much charisma, authenticity and conviction sway who you vote for. Also in this edition, the broader impacts of bird fl
How do school suspensions impact young people?
New data obtained by The Age shows that around 150 students are suspended each school day in Victoria. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the ongoing impact of a school suspension on younger people and the correlation between suspensions and youth crime.Also in this edition, will Andy Burnham become the UK's next PM, winter swimming and could human composting be
All eyes on Soccer in Seattle
It's a big weekend ahead as the Socceroos take on the USA in Seattle in the World Cup. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with an American-Australian sports journalist to preview the game and find out who he will be barracking for. Plus, we cross to a few venues around Melbourne set to open super early about their World Cup preparations.Also in this edition, what i
Mary takes you to Mill Park Library
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we venture out to Mill Park Library for a wide ranging conversation about the role of libraries in your community, plus hear the stories of the libraries from your childhood.
What's the future of the fabric store?
With the closure of Lincraft's physical stores , in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the future of the fabric shop and what it means for dressmakers.Also in this edition, the rugby league is go, but does anyone know how to pronounce the Maroons. Plus, we catch up with Bangarra Dance Theatre artistic director Frances Rings about their latest production.
New report indicates concerning rates of drug overdose in Australia
New analysis from the Penington Institute has indicated seven drug overdose fatalities per day in 2024. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what underpins this increase and what needs to happen to prevent these deaths.Also in this edition, keeping your home healthy during the winter months, orchid hunting plus is there such a thing as too much Bond?
Will petrol prices in Australia improve?
With news of the US and Iran agreeing to a ceasefire deal, in this edition of the Conversation Hour we explore what this will mean for petrol prices in Australia.Also in this edition, we look at plans to create a new 13-day hiking trail along the Yarra, talk men's health, plus catch up with Vika and Linda Bull to celebrate their induction into the ARIA Hall of Fame.
Celebrating Spiderbait
Last night saw six Australian acts join ARIA's Hall of Fame including 3-piece rockers Spiderbait. In this edition of The Conversation Hour Mary catches up with Janet English, the bands bassists and vocalist, to reflect on the band's legacy. Also in this edition, a new PFAS class action, plus the politics of The World Cup.
Improving the life of tenants
From installing solar panels to getting rid of mould, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at what landlords could and should to to improve the life of renters.Also in this edition, preventing the illegal operation of solariums, plus, the story of your wool jumper.
Have we forgotten how to behave at the theatre?
You may have seen the video of actor Rosamund Pike reprimanding an audience member for texting during a piece of theatre. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what considerate theatre behaviour should look like and just how much mobile phones are impacting our manners.Also in this edition, we cross the MCG ahead of Neale Daniher's state funeral, talk the popularity
How much does social class determine who you vote for?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore the connection between social class and the way we vote , and whether politicians have misunderstood the so called working class.Also in this edition, new research into the mental health of renters, declining rates of young people having the HPV vaccine. Plus, a stoush in the magic community over the exclusion of a robot magicia
Remembering Richard Scolyer
Former Australian of the Year and leading melanoma researcher and pathologist , Professor Richard Scolyer, has died aged 59. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we pay tribute to him and also reflect on what it is to live with a life threatening illness.Plus, later in the program combating marine trafficking, a guide to understanding the 'beautiful game' and we catch up with
Are female voters moving to the far-right?
Recent polling has indicated that Pauline Hanson is the most popular party leader among women voters, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore whether women voting for the far-right is part of a broader global trend.Also in this edition, staying safe in the snow, why park rangers are taking industrial action. Plus, do you keep a journal?
Is it good that house prices are dropping?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour independent economist Saul Eslake joins Mary Gearin to chat about how the recent drop in house prices could mark a shift towards seeing housing as a basic human right, over an investment opportunity. Also in this episode, should Victoria follow the NSW government's medicinal cannabis driving reforms? Plus, a fashion runway with a differenc
Is alcohol delivery reform in Victoria actually working?
The effectiveness of recent reforms aimed to reduce harm from alcohol delivery services has been subject to a new study from Monash University and Turning Point. The report found that four in ten Victorians surveyed had received an alcohol delivery while intoxicated, despite the reforms prohibiting delivering to consumers who are intoxicated or appear intoxicated. In this edition
On getting students to complete year 12
Recent data indicates that almost 20 per cent of Australian students don't finish school, in this edition of the Conversation Hour we explore how schools are best placed to retain students.Also in this edition, tax tips with the ATO, the return of Serena Williams, birthdays in the age of social media and could Australia's scam prevention program be improved?
Is it ok to take your kid on holiday during the school semester?
New figures have indicated that Victorian students are missing more than seven million days of classes each year in part due to parents taking them on holiday. In this edition of The Conversation we look at just how prevalent this is becoming and why some parents opt to travel during the semester.Also in this edition, will we see the rise of progressive populism in Australia?Plus
Understanding dementia risk factors
New research from Jean Hailes and Dementia Australia has revealed that most women are unaware of the factors that my contribute to their dementia risk, as well as the mortality rates. In this edition of the Conversation we talk what can reduce your dementia risk.Also in this edition, why Gen Z loves the 90s and the rise of line dancing.
Talking about sex midlife and beyond
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk the sexual health of older Australians and how it is an often neglected area of research, particularly when it comes to sexually transmitted diseases.Also in this edition, dealing with 'scanxiety' after a blood cancer diagnosis. Plus, is 'baby brain' really a thing?
What makes a great AFL coach ?
In the wake of Brad Scott's departure from Essendon, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with AFL legends Kevin Sheedy and Joel Bowden about what makes a great coach.Also, in this edition preventing child criminal exploitation, why younger generations are favouring texts over calls, plus we pay tribute to a family run business that is closing its doors after 172 yea
Understanding MND
With the sad passing of Neale Daniher in this edition of The Conversation Hour we reflect on his legacy and also speak with an MND researcher about the disease.Also in this episode, the sacking of Brad Scott from Essendon, gun control in Victoria plus what Pope Leo XIV thinks about AI.
Should public transport continue to be free?
As we head into our final week of free public transport in Victoria in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore some new research into just how much free public transport changes our travel behaviour.Also in this edition, why are the Teals talking about forming a political party, the significance of the closure of an STI clinic in the CBD, plus how much are you spending o
The risk factors that make menopause more severe for some
Recent research has revealed what makes menopause symptoms more severe and ongoing for some women, in this edition of the Conversation Hour we speak with the author of the report and hear your experiences of menopause.Also in this edition, how to create a sense of space in smaller apartments, epic whale migration, plus the end of Stephen Colbert's Late Show.
The science minister responds to climate research cuts at the CSIRO
Following on from yesterday's discussion about job cuts at the CSIRO, in this edition of The Conversation Hour the Science Minister responds to climate modelling cuts at the institution. Also in this edition, a new study on passenger safety on taxi and rideshare services, combating online misinformation for new parents, plus normalising older women on the catwalk.
What's happening at the CSIRO?
The CSIRO will press ahead with cutting up to 350 jobs, despite receiving federal government funding of $387.4 million over the next four years. With reports today of cuts to the team working on the national climate model, we discuss what these potential cuts would mean for climate projections. Also in this edition we talk citizen science, preventing infection at the nail salo
How do you feel about your GP using an AI scribe?
It's World Family Doctor Day and in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the role of the AI scribe in the doctors surgery, and the patient GP relationship.Also in this edition, how is the social media ban changing how young people engage with the news, AI at the movies, plus what's instore for the new season of Restoration Australia.
Staying safe on public transport
Victoria police have revealed that their Transit Safety Division 'STOPIT' unit have received more than 7,000 reports of unwanted sexual and anti-social behaviour over the last five years which have resulted in 77 arrests. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss the significance of the numbers and how to stay safe on public transport.Also in this edition, the power of
How much do you hear accents in music?
Delta Goodrem has made it to the Eurovision Grand Final after performing her song Eclipse. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss accents in music, what actually makes a voice sound Australian and do accents make songs more, or less marketable?Also in this edition, the health of healthcare in the federal budget, plus the significance of Trump's visit to China.
Should free meal programs be available in schools?
With recent calls for a universal school lunch program, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with two schools who have created a lunch program for their students.Also in this edition, preventing injury in community sport, how the oceans are becoming to loud for whales, plus Homer Simpson turns 70.
How far does the budget go in reducing intergenerational inequity?
The Federal Budget has been handed down and in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore just how far it goes in reducing intergenerational inequity and how it could shift our attitudes towards home ownership.Also in this edition, Split Enz are in town, we hear your favourite songs and gigs.
Politics and voter trust
Ahead of the federal budget tonight, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore the issue of voter trust and does it really matter if a party breaks an election promise? Plus, as Michael Voss quits Carlton, we look at the future of the club.
One Nation wins Farrer by-election
One Nation won the seat of Farrer from the Coalition, which had held the seat for 77 years. Meanwhile in the UK local elections indicate a decline for support of major parties. In this edition for The Conversation Hour we explore what underpins a fracturing political landscape.Also in this edition, the mental health of vets, the release of UFO files in the US, plus we ask you how
Celebrating Sir David Attenborough at 100
Sir David Attenborough has turned 100, and in this edition of The Conversation we explore how he has influenced and inspired generations to care about the natural world.Also in this edition, the latest on the war in Iran, plus what's it like to be a flight paramedic.
Should the World Cup still be screened at Federation Square?
There has been fierce debate this morning regarding whether the screening of The World Cup should be banned at Fed Square. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk what it means to balance the benefits of community connection fostered by the event against the security concerns.Also in this edition, concerning rates of asthma in the inner West, combating online radicalisat
Improving public transport accessibly
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we introduce you to Santiago Velasquez. Santiago is blind and has created an app that enables public transport passengers to electronically hail a bus from their phone in real time. The technology is currently being trialled in the bus service here in Victoria. We are also joined by Vision Australia to discuss how best to improve public
Has the recent spate of firebombing impacted your business?
With yet another nightclub firebombing overnight in this edition of the Conversation Hour we discuss what impact this series of attacks is having on the hospitality sector more broadly.Also in this edition, the health of local media, art fakes, plus, what's behind the Met Gala backlash?
Accessing voluntary assisted dying in aged care
A recent report from Go Gentle Australia has highlighted concerns about access to Voluntary Assisted Dying in aged care, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we look at the current policy and speak with senior advocacy groups about what measures they would like to see to ensure access for those who seek it.Also in this edition, the pressure on hairdressers to be therapists, t
How can we better suppport our paramedics?
With the distressing news of the stabbing of a paramedic on Thursday in Reservoir in this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what protections and supports should be in place to bolster their safety and wellbeing at work.Also in this edition, tips for renovating during a fuel crisis, plus why are fast food shares down?
The interim report from the Royal Commission on Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has been handed down
The Royal Commission into Antisemitism and Social Cohesion has released its interim report this morning. Established in response to the Bondi terror attack, the report has made 14 recommendations. In this edition of The Conversation Hour Allegra Spender, Independent Member for Wentworth, which includes Bondi, shares her reflections on the report.Also in this edition, why the Vict
Concerns about AI surveillance at work
A new report from the John Curtin Research Centre says there needs to be stronger safeguards around how AI is being used in the workplace. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss the use of excessive AI surveillance in the work place and what measures need to be put into place to mitigate harmful impact on employees.Also in this edition, the implications of the UAE le
Why don't you take the bus?
The state budget will see a $100 million injection into the Victorian bus service, with the funding to include expanded bus hours and routes into growing suburbs. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss how to improve the bus service and what needs to happen to change attitudes towards catching the bus.Also in this edition, reflections on 30 years since the Port Arthu
Improving the condition of roads in Victoria
The Victorian Government will spend over one billion dollars to repair and resurface our roads, as part of the state budget. In this edition of the Conversation Hour we discuss whether our roads are becoming safer.Also in this episode, how to save money in health care, King Charles visits Washington, plus just how quick will marathons get.
Answering your questions about the NDIS
Health Minister Mark Butler has detailed big cuts to the National Disability Insurance Scheme, in this edition of the Conversation Hour we talk through what changes are being made and take your questions.Also on the program, remembering James Valentine, a new report into Australia's food security, plus we meet the mum of a six year old golfer off to compete in Canada.
What is basic human dignity?
The federal government will reverse its decision to charge at-home aged care recipients for showers, dressing and continence care. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we reflect on what standards of dignity should look like in aged care.Also in this edition, is ongoing free public transport feasible in Victoria? Plus, how to eat well and save at the check-out.
Truck drivers to receive fuel money from business
It have been described as an historic order, The Fair Work Commission has ruled that some of Australia's larger companies need to compensate truckies and transport companies. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss what the decision means for truck drivers and how it will impact the consumer.Also in this edition, does the AFL tribunal need an overhaul?What languages s
Changes to blood donation eligibility
More people can donate blood from today, as eligibility has expanded to include gay and bisexual men and also transgender people. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk what the change means to the LGBTQIA+ community, plus what change will mean in bolstering the reserve.Also in this edition, have you found yourself walking more during the fuel crisis? We talk how to fin
Are the men 'marrying up'?
An ABC analysis of census data recently revealed that women are more likely to exceed their husbands when it comes to education. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we ask the provocative question what role things like educational status and earning capacity play in who we walk down the aisle with.Also in this edition, how Geelong is fairing in the wake of the oil refinery f
New survey reveals extent of financial strain dental costs caused by dental costs
The Consumer Health Forum is calling for the Federal Government to prioritise dental affordability ahead of the budget, off the back of its survey findings that eight in ten are finically strained by dental costs. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with their CEO the sacrifices Australians are having to make to go to the dentist and what measures the CHF would like
Navigating the AFL tribunal on umpire abuse and the principles of justice
The AFL tribunal has found Port Adelaide player Zak Butters guilty of verbally abusing umpire Nick Foot, despite a lack of evidence. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk through the principles of justice and discuss whether it should have gone to the tribunal in the first place.Also in this edition, the significance of having four Australians have drafted into the WNB
Is Australia too reliant on the US?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour Arthur Sinodinos, chair of the United States study centre and former Australian ambassador to the US and liberal minister reflects on the intricate balance of a more self-reliant Australia while also maintaining a solid US alliance, off the back of his opinion piece for The Guardian.Also in this edition, how to better support people retiri
Safeguarding democracy in Australia
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore a new report from The Grattan Institute that explores attitudes towards democracy in Australia and how to protect it into the future.Also in this edition, we talk passenger health on ultra-long flights, a change of leadership in Hungary as Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's concedes defeat. Plus we also speak with the Jesuit Social S
Why don’t we repair things more?
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore the importance of learning the art of reparation.
How is the Lebanese Community feeling?
In this episode of The Conversation Hour, the latest on how the Lebanese community is feeling amidst the Middle East conflict.
Is this peace?
In this episode of The Conversation Hour, the latest on the Iran and US conflict. We ask a Middle East analyst does this two-week ceasefire mean peace?Also, do you still use the water saving measures you implemented in the 1990s during water restrictions?And we find out how many minutes of exercise you should be doing each week.
Junior pay rates abolished for young adult employees
The Fair Work Commission will abolish junior pay rates for young adult employees aged 18 to 20 in the fast food, retail, and pharmacy sectors with a phase-in period of up to four years. In this edition of the Conversation Hour we talk what it means for both young workers and business.Also in this edition, why Gen Z dads feel they need to be the providers and we talk farmers menta
Supporting our Victorian policing community in times of trauma
In breaking news this morning police have shot dead fugitive gunman Dezi Freeman in Victoria's north-east. Freeman had been on the run for seven months, and was wanted for the fatal shootings of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim De Waart-Hottart. Bringing back memories of the tragic day of losing the officers, in this edition of The Conve
Concern the fuel crisis will impact kids sports
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore what impact the fuel crisis could have on kids sports, particularly for those living in regional Victoria having to drive long distance, and how to best support young people playing sport in a cost of living crisis. Also in this edition, the UK has launched it's own version of Saturday Night Live, we ask will we ever see a SNL h
How much is walking part of your daily commute?
Last week we discussed what role cycling could play as an alternative to driving in the context of the fuel crisis, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we delve into whether there could be an uptick in people turning to walking for their daily commute and how to look after your feet if it is something you are considering. Also in this edition, mitigating fuel theft, the late
Principals under pressure
In this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore a new study from Monash University that has highlighted the emotional stress experienced by school principals and we discuss why they will be joining the teachers strikes.Also in this edition, we talk the world's best airports, delve into a study that looks at Australian attitudes towards national security, plus celebrate the pu
Will we see more people cycling as a result of the fuel crisis?
As petrol prices continue to rise, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we explore whether people will turn to the trusty bicycle to save money and if we actually have the infrastructure to support an uptick in cyclists.Plus, later in the hour we talk with Dr Anne Jones, host of What the Duck about her new podcast that delves into the curious mix of true crime and natural his
Can jet skis co-exist with marine life?
With news today that Victoria's Conservation Regulator is investigating reports of jet ski riders harassing dolphins at Philip Island, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we discuss just how much they disrupt marine life and what measures should be put in place to protect sea mammals.Also in this edition, we recently spoke on the program about whether the fuel crisis will se
How Should You Think About Your Budget
In a time of global conflict, how should you think about your budget, your priorities, and your long term plans?
What could the fuel crisis mean for tradies
Yesterday on program we received a few calls from trade workers who shared their concerns about how the fuel crisis will impact their business. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with industry figures about just how acutely it will be felt and also what it means for consumers.We also throw the spotlight on the vast area of Gippsland to explore the cost of rising fu
How much surge capacity is in our public transport system?
As discussion rages about how the war in the Middle East will impact our fuel supplies, in this edition of The Conversation Hour we ask the question just how well placed is our public transport system equipped to deal with a demand surge in Victoria.Also in this edition, a new study looks at reducing the risk of birth trauma, plus we bring you all the latest from the Oscars.
Elder rights advocates share concern about a major aged care provider two-tier system
Opal Healthcare is trialling a new two-tier system essentially requiring residents to pay extra for things like a hot breakfast and tv in rooms. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we talk how far a system like this goes in perpetuating inequity in aged care and whether we will likely see it spread further across the sector.Also in this edition, the critical role social conn
Divided opinion on plans to shift building inspection costs from buyers to sellers
Home sellers would pay for building and pest inspections, under a new pitch from the Victorian Government if it is re-elected later this year. In this edition of The Conversation Hour we speak with key industry figures about the pros and cons on the plan and discuss whether there is a risk of conflict of interest. Also in this edition, while Australia celebrates the courage of t
