'Shovel ready' - $90 billion high-speed rail project targets 2028 start

The Albanese government has committed $230 million to kick-start a 194km high-speed rail link between Sydney and Newcastle, a project estimated to cost nearly $100 billion. High Speed Rail Authority CEO Tim Parker argues the investment is justified by Australia’s population density, noting that 60…

'Atomic plague' to ISIS brides - What the Wilfred Burchett saga teaches us about passport denial

Michael McLaren explores the polarising history of journalist Wilfred Burchett, the first "stateless" Australian, and questions why the current government hesitates to use its legal powers to bar modern security threats like ISIS brides from returning home.

'Alarm bells' - Educational decline as universities 'scoop up' low-ATAR teaching students

Michael McLaren expresses deep concern over the "spirit" of education reform being undermined by universities admitting students with ATARs under 50. He argues that while professions like media maintain high entry bars, the teaching profession is settling for lower standards, signaling a potential…

'Seismic shift' - Michael McLaren warns of economic flux following court ruling

Michael characterises the Supreme Court’s 6-3 decision as a "seismic" blow to Donald Trump. He notes that while it proves American checks and balances still operate, it erases nearly $200 billion in expected annual revenue and weakens Trump’s hand just before pivotal trade talks with President Xi.

'Everything's changed' - Australia urged to rethink nuclear weapons

As global arms control treaties expire and regional threats escalate, defense experts warn that Australia may need to consider developing its own nuclear deterrent to maintain sovereignty and military credibility. Peter Hartcher, Political and International Editor for the Sydney Morning Herald say…

'Not fair' - Carbon leakage review sparks fears of higher costs and shifting industry

The Australian government’s "carbon leakage" review suggests implementing new import tariffs to protect local manufacturers from cheaper, high-emission foreign competitors. Michael McLaren warn this "rising tide" will ultimately lead to higher prices for consumers.

Finance with Blake Wendt - 18 February

Head to https://www.pretzelwealth.com.au/ for more.

'Shortsighted' - New Shadow Defense Minister calls out the government's plan to sell off 67 military sites

Michael McLaren secures the Opposition's official support for his petition to save Sydney's historic Victoria Barracks, as new Shadow Defense Minister James Paterson calls out the government's "shortsighted" plan to fund defense by selling off 67 military sites.

'The gloves are off' - Michael McLaren says Angus Taylor’s new frontbench is built for political combat

Michael McLaren argues that while Angus Taylor has successfully built a "prosecutorial" hit squad to hunt down Labor’s big hitters, the Coalition’s flank remains dangerously exposed in the two areas that actually decide suburban elections: Energy and the NDIS. "Why on earth did Angus Taylor pick D…

'Lock the gate' - Why Australian immigration is shifting from numbers to values

Michael McLaren argues that while geographical "blanket bans" are too blunt, Australia must strictly vet applicants' ideologies to ensure they align with the country's core democratic principles.