Serious Danger
Serious Danger is an Australian political podcast hosted by Emerald Moon and Tom Ballard, focusing on the country's broken political system and what they see as the threat posed by the Greens. Each week they discuss Australian political news, interview key figures from the left, and explore strategies for building a better future. The show is not affiliated with the Greens party but aims to help listeners stay sane amid the chaos of Australian politics. It is produced by Michael Griffin and has a strong social media presence.
Episodes
242: Vote with us or we kill the koalas ft. Richard Denniss
Tom is joined by economist and co-CEO of The Australia Institute Dr. Richard Denniss! This week, Greens passed the government’s Improved Native Forest Management Bill, though three Senators crossed the floor to dissent. Why does Richard think it was a mistake to once again enable Labor compromise? Does he believe this will actually save the koalas? Did he see Friendlyjordies say he has a sil
UNLOCKED: AI Professor Toby Walsh explains data centres
We will be back next week with a new episode, but while we take a week off, we have unlocked a favourite from our Patreon feed. Like the underappreciated modern classic Eddington, it is all about data centres. Enjoy! -In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald speak to Professor Toby Walsh, author of “The Shortest History of AI,” to learn all about data centres. As
Bonus: Auspol shitposting with @nickschadegg
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald meet one of #auspol’s finest shitstirrers and antagonists, Nick Schadegg! What does he get out of posting? Why can’t he quit Twitter? Is everyone insane? And a look through some of his greatest hits. Featuring Caleb Bond, Drew Pavlou, and other lowlifes!---------- The show can only exist because of our wonderful Patreon sub
Bonus: The Great Housing Debate
Video version - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lf1zTHR3nKM As a special bonus we're sharing this recent live debate, featuring lots of friends of the show. Enjoy! x-------------We solved housing!On 23 July The Greens held the Great Housing Debate in Collingwood. Topics and speakers were:"Supply is not the problem" - Chels Hood Withey (House You) vs Jonathan O'Brien (YIMBY)"Rent Controls Don'
240: What does Scott Ludlam think about stuff? ft. Scott Ludlam
Tom is joined by the former Greens senator for New Zealand (Western Australia), Scott Ludlam! What has Scott been up to since leaving politics? Dolly Parton died and it is strangely non-partisan. (14:17) What is Scott's take on the state of Aus politics? (21:11) And then run through the rise of the far right, how it was created by a sophisticated long-term project, Israel, climate, AUKUS, oh my. (
239: Evil Labor f***s the NDIS then gives gambling a gobby ft. Mandy Nolan
Tom’s away and Emerald is joined by guest host, Greens candidate for Ballina in the upcoming NSW election, Mandy Nolan! First up, Labor has made deals with LNP and One Nation to pass their cuts to the NDIS and weak gambling reforms. (5:36) Then a chat about Northern Rivers politics, conspiracy theories, the plan-bird-emic, and a look ahead to next year’s NSW state election. (36:00) ---
Bonus: We do the Britmonkey 2020s Political Compass
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald take Britmonkey’s viral test ‘The 2020s Political Compass.’ Are we woke or chud? Hopepilled or doomers? Stay tuned to find out…---------- The show can only exist because of our wonderful Patreon subscriber’s support. Subscribe for $3/month to get access to our fortnightly subscriber-only full episode, and
238: Albo’s lack of rizz causes international incident & kids stand up to Hanson ft. Dave Milner
Tom is joined by journalist and co-host of The Sunday Shot podcast, Dave Milner! Albo’s podcast woes show how the media sets the agenda (10:03). One Nation deals with, shock horror, a poorly-vetted homophobic candidate scandal (18:26). Immigration continues to be the main story (24:42). And the kids, who are alright, protest One Nation (48:37).---------- Just released on Patreon - "The fight
237: How to make the Greens cut through ft. Jim Casey
Tom is joined by firefighter, Marxist, and currently one of the NSW delegates to Greens National Council, Jim Casey! First up is Jim’s experiences running against Albo in Grayndler and getting stitched up by the media. (11:00) Next, what is the future of the labour movement in Australia? How did the Greens end up invisible at the moment they are most needed? And how should the Greens react t
Excerpt: The fight to close Pine Gap ft. Hannah Ekin
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald are joined by organiser Hannah Ekin to discuss the fight to Close Pine Gap and the protest event Convergence 2026. Why is there a little America sitting in the middle of our continent? Are the ABC just a mouthpiece for the government? And is America using Pine Gap as a way to illegally conduct surveillance that breaks their own America
236: Vic premier pushed off glass cliff, Hannah Ferguson vs Albo & should racism be illegal?
Emerald is back on with Tom to chat about a bunch of news! First up, Zack Polanski’s guillotine scandal sounds awful familiar… Then, Victoria suddenly has a new premier! (14:11) Then, Pauline Hanson lost an appeal against a court ruling that found she racially discriminated against Greens senator Mehreen Faruqi. But should it have been a legal matter? (31:20) Hannah Ferguson, CEO of C
235: Vic election update with Campbell Gome & Brittney Henderson
Tom is joined by two leading Greens candidates for the upcoming Victorian election - Campbell Gome for Northcote, and Brittney Henderson for Western Metro! First up, an introduction to their campaigns and a discussion about the undemocratic group voting system. (5:14) Then a deep dive into the upcoming election and the state ahead. Is Victoria really going to fall to an insane Liberal-One Nation M
Excerpt: How they teach fossil fuels in our schools with Comms Declare’s Belinda Noble
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald are joined by Belinda Noble, a former journalist who went on to work as Head of Media & Communications for Australian Red Cross and is now the CEO of climate communications charity Comms Declare. They have just released ‘From Cradle to Career,’ a report on how the fossil fuel industry has inserted itself into our school
234: Dave Hughes loves money like Labor loves A.I. ft. Amy Remeikis
Tom is joined by returning favourite, Chief Political Analyst at The Australia Institute and author of ‘Where It All Went Wrong: The Case Against John Howard,’ Amy Remeikis!First up, after all these years, finally now in the year of our lord 2026, has Hughsey lost it? (12:33) Then, Albo this week gave a big speech about the future of AI. (33:42) Is artificial intelligence and its disru
233: Is Albo working for gambling or for us? ft. Rebecca Vassarotti MLA
Tom is joined by guest host, former and now returned Member of the ACT Legislative Assembly, Rebecca Vassarotti! First up, what is the state of play in the ACT, and was there going to be a Tory + Tree Tory coalition? (9:46) Then, why is the federal government being so pissweak on gambling reform? (40:43) Is it up to the states (oops, territories) to do it themselves? ---------- Just released on Pa
Excerpt: Apparently One Nation has policies, let’s review them
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald go to the place Aussie journos fear to tread… the One Nation policy platform! What actually are Pauline’s policies? And who actually writes them, cause it sure ain’t the members. Also, are some of them actually, wait for it, good?---------- The show can only exist because of our wonderful Patreon subscriber’s s
232: A teal party, a midwinter ball & a monoculture orgy
Tom is joined by guest-Emerald for this week, Emerald! Oh no, this week was the Mindwinter Ball! Then, a look at the latest on One Nation and monoculture, and are the Greens fighting back? (20:17) Then, ‘teals’ Zali Steggal and Allegra Spender have launched their own party, Community Strong Australia (45:04). Did they not google at all what the acronym means?---------- Just released on
231: The cooked state of climate action ft. Grace from Aus Youth Climate Coalition
Tom is joined by guest host, National Director of the Australian Youth Climate Coalition, Grace Vegesana!First up, don’t tell Hughsey but Greens passed the negative gearing and capital gains tax changes. Then, why does it seem like climate action has regressed from delays to denial? (13:47) And how much is Pauline to blame? (54:26) ---------- Just released on Patreon - "We discuss Guy Rundle
Excerpt: Intergenerational inequality - should we blame boomers?
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom starts by recapping the news that Greens have agreed to pass the government’s budget changes to negative gearing and CGT. Then, Emerald and Tom chat intergenerational inequality. Are boomers to blame? Will these changes actually help young people?---------- The show can only exist because of our wonderful Patreon subscriber’s support.
230: How to fix housing ft. Maiy Azize from Everybody’s Home
Tom is joined by guest host, Deputy Director of Anglicare Australia and national spokesperson for the housing justice campaign Everybody’s Home, Maiy Azize! She’s fresh from an appearance on The Karl Stefanovic podcast - what was that like? First up, the Pauline Hanson National Press Club Address brouhaha. Then, housing and are Labor’s new reforms going to help? (22:49) Finally t
Bonus: Zack Polanski in conversation with Ellen Sandell
As a special bonus on the feed, here is Victorian Greens leader Ellen Sandell’s chat with Zack Polanski, recorded live at the recent Victorian Greens Campaign Conference! How can Aussies capture his UK Greens energy? ---------- Just released on Patreon - "We discuss Guy Rundle’s take on the Greens flop era" The show can only exist because of our wonderful Patreon subscriber’s sup
229: One Nation Targets Tom ft. Scott Mitchell
Tom is excited that he got owned in the most recent Pauline Hanson Please Explain cartoon. And then is joined by guest host, co-host of Lamestream, Scott Mitchell! First, Scott’s take on where to next for the Australian Greens, as One Nation seemingly steals everyone’s mojo. (14:53) Then, AUKUS news! America is now going to give us second-hand subs for the same cost. As was the plan! S
Excerpt: We discuss Guy Rundle’s take on the Greens flop era
In our HUNDREDTH bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Emerald and Tom discuss Guy Rundle’s new piece on the state and future of the Greens. First, a bit of a chat about Guy and his history with the party. Then, they unpick his article “Colourless Green Ideas Schlep Furiously: The Greens are at a turning point. And taking the wrong one.” Is Max Hyphen-Name leading the party down
228: Labor’s welfare “reform” wank ft. Kristin O’Connell
Tom is joined by guest host, spokesperson for the Anti-Poverty Centre, Kristin O’Connell, to talk welfare. First up, the government plays weird games kicking people accused of crimes off of support, but for what aim? (7:49) Then, the government announced sweeping reforms of the welfare sector and mutual obligations. (27:20) Except, these reforms seem awfully familiar. Do I smell Scomo?------
227: One Nation & budget fallout refuse to go away ft. Neha Madhok
Tom is joined by guest host, co-founder of racial justice organisation Democracy In Colour, a community organiser and a recent panellist on SBS Insight’s episode on the rise of One Nation, Neha Madhok! First up, an introduction to Neha and Tom asks her for the now obligatory take on the state of the Greens. Then, new polling suggests One Nation is very popular and remains so! (15:53) But why
Excerpt: Democracy For CPSU - Inside the fight for reform
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Emerald and Tom are joined by Chris Warren, union delegate and a convenor of the rank-and-file caucus Democracy For CPSU.Is reform of the public service union possible, or is it captured from within by the ALP? Why should Greens supporters join the cause? How did the unions become public enemy number one?---------- The show can only exist because of o
UNLOCKED: Greg Larsen feels crazy watching horny pollies get off
Tom is away this week, so we have unlocked a recent favourite bonus episode for Patreon subscribers. We’ll be back with a new episode next week. Emerald and Tom are joined by Tom’s old Tonightly mate, Aussie comedy legend Greg Larsen!Why does life feel crazy these days? Did ASIO hide the truth about Greg Hunt and Chris Pyne getting porno-hacked? Did Geggy’s Patreon get cancelled?
225: Budget Losers 2026 ft. Senator Barbara Pocock
Tom is joined by guest host, Greens Senator for South Australia, Barbara Pocock! (6:53) Did Labor actually do something and improve the CGT and negative gearing? How has homelessness gotten so bad? Why have the NDIS cuts slipped under the radar? And did renters receive anything whatsoever to help?---------- Just released on Patreon - "Live Q&A with Max Chandler-Mather" The show can only exist
Excerpt: Live Q&A with Max Chandler-Mather
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers recorded live at Good Chat in Brisbane, Tom asks Max Chandler-Mather questions submitted by our Patreon listeners!What was best and worst about being in parliament? Who is the d***est c***? What movies does he watch? Should Greens stop giving Labor preferences? What are his thoughts on the Stafford by-election and the Queensland Socialists? Has being a
224: Live in Brisbane ft. Max Chandler-Mather & Tully from Tight Knit
Recorded live at Good Chat Comedy Club in Brisbane, Tom is joined by former Griffith MP and new boss of the Green Institute, Max Chandler-Mather! Why did he lose in 2025? What is next? Then Tully from Tight Knit joins (37:00) to explain how the Brisbane LNP City Council is big, both in size and bad behaviour, and how Tight Knit shows off the circus for what it is. And what do Max and Tully think a
223: Ellen Sandell on the the state of Victoria
Tom is joined by the leader of the Greens in Victorian parliament, Ellen Sandell! First, Labor confirm that good things aren’t possible and there will be no changes to gas tax in the upcoming budget. (6:12) Next, it’s election year in Victoria. What is the state of play in the lead up to November’s election? (15:49) What is going on with Avi Yemini trying to exploit Victoria&rsqu
Excerpt: Greg Larsen feels crazy watching horny pollies get off
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Emerald and Tom are joined by Tom’s old Tonightly mate, Aussie comedy legend Greg Larsen!Why does life feel crazy these days? Did ASIO hide the truth about Greg Hunt and Chris Pyne getting porno-hacked? Did Geggy’s Patreon get cancelled? How could there be a Michael Jackson movie? And why will no one admit the secret brilliance of Pauline
222: Having a gas ft. Sophie McNeill
Tom is joined by former ABC mate, journo and now Greens WA MLC member, Sophie McNeill! This week - gas. First up, a look at the state of WA’s captured existence (14:59). Then, the nation wants action! (41:54) A senate inquiry and a push to tax gas exports is growing. Enter… the government, who love money and are indifferent at best towards emissions reductions.---------- Just released
221: How media talks war & Angus Taylor’s tirade ft. Nick Feik
Tom is joined by guest host, writer Nick Feik, of The Monthly, Crikey, Substack, and author of a spicy forthcoming Nacc investigation mentioned at the end of the show!It’s hard to work out the current state of the war, but why is Australian media always the first to make excuses? (13:18) Meanwhile Angus Taylor’s Liberal party reaches new lows with his speech on migration and Australian
Excerpt: Why can’t Aussie Greens be like the UK Greens?
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Emerald and Tom ask the question on everyone’s mind - why are the Australian Greens not experiencing the wave of support currently happening for the UK Greens, under their new leader Zack Polanski? How can the Aussie version escape its reputation as a bunch of arts degree inner-city elites? And how much of the recent UK success is a result of th
220: Senator Mehreen Faruqi talks war, racism & Ben Roberts-Smith
Tom is joined by Mehreen Faruqi, federal senator for NSW and Deputy Leader of the Australian Greens. Can the ‘ceasefire’ in the war on Iran be trusted? And why won’t Australia call out war crimes? (4:36) On that note, Victoria Cross recipient Ben Roberts-Smith was arrested charged with five counts of the war crime of murder! But is he now commander of the culture war? (32:34) Fin
UNLOCKED: Paddy Manning on his book Inside The Greens!
Happy Easter! We will be back with a new episode next week, but we hope you enjoy this unlocked episode from our Patreon feed!Tom and Emerald speak to Paddy Manning about his epic history of the Australian Greens movement, “Inside The Greens: The Origins and Future of the Party, the People and the Politics.”Since July 2023 we have been recapping Paddy’s history of the Greens on o
Excerpt: We debate the SBS influencer debate on capitalism
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald discuss the recent SBS ‘The Feed’ discussion - “Is capitalism a good system or has it outlived its purpose? Six influential people debate capitalism. On the panel: content director Jack Toohey, Simran Kaur from Friends That Invest, buyers agent Eddie Dilleen, Queenie Tan from Invest with Queenie, policy analyst Cian H
219: Zack Schofield from Rising Tide on how to stop coal & war
Tom is joined by Zack Schofield, activist and organiser of the Rising Tide protests! First some of Zack’s history, and a catch up on last week’s Labor interview. Then, how did the SA election last week shake out? (23:26) The war continues and Australia ban Iranian visitors.The ABC went on strike. (55:21) And Zack is going on the Sumud flotilla to Gaza! (58:14)---------- Just released o
218: War-flation, rate rises & CGT discounts ft. Rachel Withers
Oh no it was Rita Panahi’s 50th birthday and I forgot to send a card to her embarrassing party boat. Tom is joined by Rachel Withers, writer for Crikey and co-host of Spin Cycle on RRR! First up there is a new buzzword in town as warflation hits Australia. (15:25) Will another rate rise convince Aussie battlers to stop illegally invading Middle Eastern countries? Then Labor is bravely timidl
The case for change from within ft. Labor Against War’s Marcus Strom
As the war in the Middle East escalates, Tom recently called upon members of Labor Against War to take a stand and leave the party for its support of America and Israel’s illegal actions. In this special bonus episode on our main feed, Tom is joined by Marcus Strom, National Convenor and co-founder of Labor Against War. If he agrees the Labor Party is wrong, why stay a member? Has the party
Excerpt: AI Professor Toby Walsh explains data centres
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald speak to Professor Toby Walsh, author of “The Shortest History of AI,” to learn all about data centres. As life becomes more and more online and AI enshittifies every aspect of existence, data centres are multiplying across the world and drinking up water and power. Is Eddington a documentary? ---------- The show can only e
217: Labor Warlords & Robo-c**s ft. Elise Turnbull
Tom is joined by Auspol streamer Elise Turnbull to ask whether this war with Iran is actually a war, or is it merely a sparkling collective self defence? (10:38) Then producer Griff aka Michael Griffin joins to talk about how the Nacc this week delivered zero robodebt justice. (27:47) Finally, a look at the Liberal and Greens federal campaign reviews of the 2025 elections. (45:25) Pretty sure both
216: Senator Shoebridge on Iran war & Australia’s complicity
Recorded Friday morning and releasing a day early, because things keep happening, Tom is joined by Senator David Shoebridge to discuss Israel and America’s attacks on Iran, and the aftermath as war spreads across the Middle East. Why is this illegal war happening? Why are Australian politicians of all stripes racing to support it? What is next and what can we do about it? How did it become T
Excerpt: Paddy Manning on his book Inside The Greens!
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald speak to Paddy Manning about his epic history of the Australian Greens movement, “Inside The Greens: The Origins and Future of the Party, the People and the Politics.”Since July 2023 we have been recapping Paddy’s history of the Greens on our Patreon, and now that we finally are through the book, who better than its a
215: Jan Fran on “Difficult” Albo’s word games & the BAFTA scandals
Recorded before the attacks on Iran, Tom is joined by Jan Fran from ETTE Media! Angus Taylor wants to talk about the flag. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese played a stupid game and won a stupid prize, after his gross description of Grace Tame as “difficult.” (29:00) Then, the BAFTA Awards was in the news but its worst act was suppressing support of Palestine. (51:45) ---------- Just rel
214: Is the party over for Sydney Mardi Gras? ft. Charlie Murphy
Tom is joined by the Charlie Murphy from Pride In Protest, to talk about the fight for Sydney Mardi Gras, as the board overrules membership votes and debate rages over whether the event is a protest or a party. (4:04) Then, why does the world seem to be turning against the queer community? And are lesbians more pro-trans than trans people? (53:05) ---------- Just released on Patreon - "Personality
Bonus: Personality politics - how much does it matter?
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Emerald and Tom ponder the issue of personality politics. Are Mamdani and Polanski popular because they are cool? What about Pauline? What does the research say about some of Australia’s most notorious public figures? Are conservatives more attractive, and are lefties a bunch of ugmos? What is David Pocock up to with his thirst traps? ----------
213: Sen Peter Whish-Wilson says goodbye to politics & hello to Angus Taylor
Tom is joined by the Surfing Senator, the retiring Greens Senator for Tasmania, Peter Whish-Wilson! First up, Angus Taylor has rolled Sussssan Ley and is the new leader of the Liberals. Say the line, Angus! (10:57) Next up, a look at the aftermath of Israeli President Herzog’s visit to Australia, the abuse of power at protests, and these cops not being tops. (31:07) Finally, Peter looks back
212: Amy Remeikis on Israel President visit & One Nation’s rise
Tom is joined by Amy Remeikis from The Australia Institute! First up, what is going on in South Australia? Are the Greens going to team up with the Liberals?! (08:32) Next, the Liberal-National coalition is a hot mess, and it’s melting. (26:21) Finally, the Israeli President Isaac Herzog is visiting Australia, and it shines a light on our nation’s dubious relationship with internationa
Excerpt: Inside the Greens : Greensland emerges, 2019 election, NSW fractures
In this bonus series for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald reach the end of Paddy Manning’s epic history of the Australian Greens movement, “Inside The Greens: The Origins and Future of the Party, the People and the Politics.”In this episode, the Batman by-election disaster, trouble in NSW, the rise of the Greens in Brisbane, and the 2019 election!This is the end of the book!
211: Gary Stevenson on the Aussie economic emergency & how the left can fight back
After a quick pop-in from Emerald, Tom is joined by Gary Stevenson, the People’s Economist! (13:28) With the world seemingly falling apart around us, how can we fight back and wind back wealth inequality before it's too late? And with the UK Greens flourishing under Zack Polanski, how can the wobbly Australian Greens recapture the narrative? ---------- Just released on Patreon - "Nationalise
210: Hate speech laws & Invasion Day ft. Larissa Baldwin-Roberts
(Note: Sorry for some unavoidable sound issues later on this ep!)Tom is joined by guest host Larissa Baldwin-Roberts, from Common Threads and former CEO of GetUp! First up, the new hate speech laws have passed (13:16). How bad are they? What did we gain in exchange for giving up some essential rights? Next up, Invasion Day 2026 (43:59). What is the state of the discussion about Australia Day? How
Excerpt: Nationalise the pub? The left politics of alcohol
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Emerald and Tom talk booze! Emerald is straight edge and Tom is an occasional lush, how do they feel about alcohol in 2026? Why are young people drinking less - are they wowsers or just poor? Is it poor form to have alcohol at Greens events? What is the left position on the demon drink?---------- The show can only exist because of our wonderful Patreo
209: Adelaide Writers Week & SA Election with Robert Simms, SA Legislative Council
Bond, Caleb Bond. Tom is joined by guest host Robert Simms, Greens member of the SA Legislative Council, to talk all things Festival State. First, the Adelaide Writers Week is cancelled after they cancelled the Palestinian author Randa Abdel-Fattah’s appearance, which they have now uncancelled. What is going on? (9:15) Then, a look at the state of play in SA state politics and a prediction a
208: Venezuela, Royal Commission & Adelaide Festival with Jeff Sparrow
Getting on the grift with Drew Pavlou. Tom is joined by guest host Jeff Sparrow, Walkley award-winning journalist and writer and senior lecturer at the Centre for Advancing Journalism at the University of Melbourne.America did a coup of Venezuela! (10:23) Albo announced a Royal Commission and Adelaide Festival cancelled itself! (44:34) Everything feels even more crazy! ---------- Just released on
Excerpt: Inside the Greens #11: Dual citizens, Trump & Gonski
Video version - https://youtu.be/FQzjNT6oVHM In this bonus series for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald continue chapter 11 of author Paddy Manning’s epic history of the Australian Greens movement, “Inside The Greens: The Origins and Future of the Party, the People and the Politics.”First up some listener feedback on our Civil Duty recap episode. Then in this installment
UNLOCKED: Sean Kelly asks ‘What Does Labor Stand For?’
We will be back with regular episodes starting next week, but for now here is an unlock of a favourite bonus episode from our Patreon. Emerald is back! And joined by Tom to meet Sean Kelly, former Labor staffer and current journalist, to discuss his new Quarterly Essay, “The Good Fight: What Does Labor Stand For?” Are Labor cowardly cowards, or clever pragmatists who know how to p
UNLOCKED: Is centrism killing us? ft. Richard Denniss
In honour of this strange week between Christmas and New Years, where nothing makes sense, what better time to talk centrism? In this unlock of a favourite Patreon bonus ep, Emerald and Tom are joined again by economist and Executive Director of The Australia Institute Dr Richard Denniss, to discuss his new essay ‘Dead Centre: How Political Pragmatism is Killing Us.’ This one is a crac
Teaser: Civic Doodie - ‘Annabel Crabb's Civic Duty’ recap
Merry Christmas (?), as in this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, we celebrate with Emerald and Tom by recapping Annabel Crabb’s latest frothy dive into Auspol, this time with Civic Duty, an ABC three-part series about the story of Australia’s voting system. Is Tom wrong to want it to go deeper? How can Penny Wong show her face in public after putting a dumb political party ahead
207: Post-Bondi politics & Emerald on 2025
Video version - https://youtu.be/6VAHTndYDWg Emerald joins Tom to take a look at the aftermath of the horrific Bondi massacre (4:14), the community’s shock and the ways bad actors are exploiting it to push agendas. Then, a look at the year ahead and Emerald’s vibes for the Greens in 2025 (51:14). ---------- Just released on Patreon - Inside the Greens #11: DiNatale’s black s
206 : Deepcut’s Alex McKinnon on Expenses Rorts & Social Media Ban
City councils vs cartoon watermelons. Tom is joined by guest host Alex McKinnon, co-founder of Deepcut News! First up, a politician expenses scandal has hit (23:52). Are these just distractions running from a template? And are Greens just as bad as the majors? Then, the under-16s social media ban hits (50:21). Will kids just instantly get around it? Why does breakfast radio continue to set the age
Bonus: Inside the Greens #11: DiNatale’s black skivvy & Senate voting reform
In this bonus series for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald continue chapter 11 of author Paddy Manning’s epic history of the Australian Greens movement, “Inside The Greens: The Origins and Future of the Party, the People and the Politics.”In this instalment - Richard DiNatalie flirts with the mainstream, reform of Group Voting Tickets in the Senate, the 2006 election, Turnbull
205: Hannah Thomas on the state of protest & Aus Election Study results
New theme song! Tom is joined by guest host, Greens candidate and activist, Hannah Thomas! First, an update on her health and the legal proceedings following her assault by a police officer during a pro-Palestinian protest (2:48). Then, Rising Tide is back for another year and plenty of legends have been arrested for blocking coal ships (25:52). Finally, a look at the recent results from the Austr
204: Osman Faruqi on the nature bill - did Greens wimp out?
Pauline’s back with another attempt to woo MAGA, aka a burqa for a berko. Tom is joined by guest host Osman Faruqi, as he prepares to present Lamestream’s Ls of the Year Awards. First up, the Greens have agreed to pass the Environment Protection Reform Bills (19:11). Was this a capitulation by a Greens party cowed into submission, or a pragmatic move to take the best they could get? Th
Bonus: Sean Kelly asks ‘What Does Labor Stand For?’
In this sample of the new bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Emerald is back! And joined by Tom to meet Sean Kelly, former Labor staffer and current journalist, to discuss his new Quarterly Essay, “The Good Fight: What Does Labor Stand For?” Are Labor cowardly cowards, or clever pragmatists who know how to play the game? What is Anthony Albanese actually up to? How can the Australi
203: Amy Remeikis on why Labor gets away with being worse than LNP
The Griff needs your help! Tom is joined by returning favourite Amy Remeikis, one of the few good journalists. First up a bit of Trump Epstein emails chat as a little treat (8:40). Then, the Coalition dumped net zero and all it does is provide cover for Labor to be 99% as bad (15:43). Next up a mixed-bag of the government being a bag of shit (45:10). Did you know the new CSIRO cuts are worse than
202: Sarah Hanson-Young on the net zero morality of the dead fishes in government
Tom and The Griff marvel at Max Chandler-Mather getting a fair run in an Australian newspaper!? Next, Tom is joined by Sarah-Hanson Young, Greens senator for South Australia! First up, the state of play and then a look at a recent Crikey article featuring unhappy Greens staffers (19:01). Then, with the LNP ditching net zero, and the country seemingly unbothered that Labor has effectively ditched i
BONUS: Making fun of political ads with Wil Anderson, live at Comedy Republic
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Emerald and Tom are joined live at Comedy Republic in Melbourne by Wil Anderson! As is his curse for life, we asked him to analyse commercials with us. From baby Adam Bandt, Labor cosplaying as Greens, Pauline going for schmaltz, and many more, political advertising in Australia is as strange as the politics itself. ---------- The show can only exist
201: Punter’s Politics on Mamdani & how lobbyists own Australia
Say nup to the annual Michael McCormack Melbourne Cup skit. Tom is joined by guest host Konrad Benjamin, aka Punter’s Politics! What is his superhero origin story? First up, this week saw Punters' Politics Political Fundraising Gala Dinner, a crowd-sourced plan to buy leftie lobbyists (20:51). Is lobbying the root cause of all political evil? Next up, with Zohran Mamdani’s big win in t
200: Live in Melbourne ft. Wil Anderson
Video version - https://youtu.be/p7BpEuvzV_kLive from the Comedy Republic in Melbourne, it’s our 200th episode! It’s Emerald’s last weekly show! First, Albo is secretly a Joy Division t-shirt nazi!? Then some good news as Victoria signed a treaty with its First Peoples, and some bad news as Queensland banned puberty blockers for adolescents. Will some Zohran Mamdami and Zack Pola
Bonus: The Information Rights Project - Freedom For The Press event
In this bonus episode for Patreon subscribers, Tom moderates the ‘Freedom For The Press’ event live at The Wheeler Centre in Melbourne on Tuesday 15th October 2025. “Censorship and secrecy threaten democracy. A discussion on press freedom and the public’s right to know.”The panel features: Andrew Wilkie MP – Independent Federal MP & defender of whistleblowe
199: Feeling Climate Triggered as First Homes Guaranteed to cost more
Mr. Albanese Goes To Washington and sells our resources for cheap to dictator while media takes Rudd bait. Emerald and Tom look at the announcement that the government's overhaul of Australia's environment laws won’t include a climate trigger. (9:09) But would a trigger have even stopped them from approving every possible mine? Then, duelling of the thinkpieces as Emma Dawson and Max Chandle
198: Greg Jericho on Gaza, superannuation & how he got here
Emerald is joined by guest host, #auspol legend and Chief Economist at The Australia Institute, Greg Jericho! First up, a chat about his career and being a fellow target of important public interest journalist James Massola (3:25). (We thought about asking James to come on the show, but he’s very busy breaking Watergate 2.) Next, what should we make of the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas?
197: 000 Optus outage outrage & let’s look at Larissa’s leadership
Pauline Hanson is upset about paper bags for her pointless distraction this week. Emerald and Tom go through the Optus 000 saga after more unanswered calls have resulted in three deaths (7:52). You can’t privatise essential services without breaking a few eggs! Then, a look at the controversial recent Larissa Waters’ appearance on Insiders (35:37), which has brought criticism for her t
Bonus: Student Politics 101 ft. Dru Sims, UQ Greens President
In this bonus series for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald are joined by Dru Sims, President of the UQ Greens, to discuss student politics! What does politics at uni look like in 2025? Is it a breeding ground for the cesspool of grown up politics? And what is the state of the race in the UQ union election?UQU election dates - Fri Oct 10th midday - postal vote applications close Mon Oct 13
196: The state of the territory ft. Shane Rattenbury, ACT Greens leader
Freya Fired Out! Emerald and Tom are joined by leader of the Greens in the ACT, Shane Rattenbury! (12:58) First up a look at ACT politics and the state of play. Then, housing (34:24). As ACT makes it a human right, the federal 5% Home Guarantee Scheme comes into effect. Are these policies actually designed to make things worse? Finally, a call to action (1:07:54).Video version - https://youtu.be/P
Bonus: Inside the Greens #10: Christine Milne’s overhaul & Scott Ludlam’s arrival (Teaser)
In this bonus series for Patreon subscribers, Tom and Emerald continue chapter 10 of author Paddy Manning’s epic history of the Australian Greens movement, “Inside The Greens: The Origins and Future of the Party, the People and the Politics.”In this instalment - Christine Milne is a controversial leader, Tassie troubles, Scott Ludlam comes and goes, the party debates blocking the
195: Albo’s Trump selfie & ‘the state’ of NSW ft. Abigail Boyd, MLC
Albanese goes to the UN to obtain photographic evidence to prove to the other kids that Trump thinks he’s cool. Tom is joined by guest host and Greens upper house member for NSW, Abigail Boyd, MLC! What is the state of NSW politics? (12:58) And updates on Hannah Thomas, the childcare industry inquiry, worker’s comp, and some colourful characters in parliament. Finally, a call to action
194: Israel’s G-word & Sussan Ley’ss Sstupid Sspeech
The emissions targets are out, and we need to get it right. Emerald and Tom go over the news that the United Nations (sort of) released a report declaring Israel’s action in Palestine a genocide (12:20). So that’s all sorted then? Next up, Susssssan Ley gave a speech this week about breaking the “growing expectation that the government will pay for everything.” (34:31) With
