A devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake has struck Myanmar and Thailand, killing at least 1,700 people and leaving thousands injured or missing.

Queensland is grappling with the aftermath of Cyclone Alfred and unprecedented flooding, with the damage bill expected to exceed $13 billion.

Kos Samaras, Director at Redbridge Group - chats with Michael. 

Professor David Flint weighs in on Albanese’s election call with Michael McLaren.

While the Coalition’s nuclear energy strategy remains a long-term goal, Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Ted O’Brien, says the gas plan is an immediate step to stabilize the energy grid.

The Fair Work Ombudsman is conducting surprise inspections of fast food outlets, restaurants, and cafés in Newtown and Enmore to ensure compliance with workplace laws. 

The 2025 Federal Budget has been handed down, with tax cuts for low-income earners, Medicare funding, and childcare subsidies among the key takeaways. However, concerns remain over bracket creep, the ongoing budget deficit, and a lack of increased defence spending. Critics argue the budget is more about securing votes than addressing long-term economic challenges.

Moya Sharp, Historian chats with Michael.

With the federal budget set to be unveiled tonight, key areas of spending include an $8.5 billion boost for Medicare, nearly $700 million for medicine cost reductions, and funding for disaster recovery and childcare. However, the Albanese government is resisting calls to increase defence spending to 3% of GDP, leaving Australia vulnerable amid rising global tensions. 

Electric vehicle adoption in Australia remains sluggish despite government incentives, with a major hurdle being the lack of charging infrastructure.

Michael McLaren and David Littleproud had a heated back and forth after the Nationals were pushing for tougher measures against major supermarkets, with leader David Littleproud arguing they must “fear the government” to ensure fair pricing.

Despite government incentives and ambitious EV sales targets, demand for fully electric vehicles in Australia appears to be declining.

With national security set to be a key issue in the next election, the Coalition is expected to unveil new defence policies to strengthen Australia’s military capabilities.

Anna Cordaiy, Entertainment Expert chats with Michael.

With increasing global tensions, from China’s naval presence to U.S. tariffs, Kenny argues that Australia must prioritize self-reliance in defence, energy, and manufacturing to secure its future.

A New Jersey hospital has come under fire for a questionnaire asking new parents about their newborns' sexual orientation and gender identity, including options for identifying as transgender.

An investigation by the ABC's Four Corners has exposed thousands of standard breaches at childcare centres across the country, including allegations of sexual abuse.

Rare Sheffield Shield medals awarded to legendary Australian cricketer Monty Noble are set to go under the hammer this week. The auction will also feature historic banknotes and war medals, with bidding taking place at the State Library and online.

A Business NSW survey reveals that 78% of companies have seen double-digit insurance hikes, with some facing increases of 30% or more. Rising costs are pushing small businesses to forgo coverage, prompting calls for urgent reforms.

Guy Turland, Chef and Tassal Seafood Ambassador -  chats with Michael.

The Irish chanteuse shares her influences, memories of touring with The Pogues, and how Loveletters celebrates the lives of two of Ireland’s greatest musicians.

Australians are bracing for another energy price hike, with the Australian Energy Regulator’s draft ruling revealing electricity bills in NSW could increase by up to 9% from July 1.

As the U.S. imposes 25% tariffs on steel and aluminium, Australian exporters are feeling the pressure. While companies like Bluescope were prepared, many others are now facing uncertainty. Former Trade Minister Simon Birmingham argues that Australia’s measured response is the right strategy, despite criticism from the Opposition

Entertainment Expert Anna Cordaiy chats with Michael about the latest news in Movie world.

Australia will be hit with a 25% tariff on steel and aluminium exports to the US starting tomorrow after Donald Trump rejected an exemption.

The Melbourne-born champion, now living on the Gold Coast, reflects on his achievements and the sport’s future.

Peter Allen, Senior Physiotherapist chats with Michael. 

Mike Pezzullo says Beijing’s recent live-fire exercises were a test of Australia’s readiness and a signal of our vulnerabilities.

Angus Taylor argues that long-term economic growth, manufacturing, and productivity need greater focus amid budget discussions as we await for an election date.

With nine of the ten best-selling vehicles last year being SUVs or utes, many drivers are struggling to fit into standard parking bays.

Australian Unity CEO Rohan Mead warns that Australia’s $250 billion healthcare system is under growing financial strain due to an aging population.

We've received reports of someone bitten by a shark at Bundeena south of Cronulla. 

A private jet experience is reviving Qantas' historic multi-stop route to London, offering a luxury throwback to 1940s air travel.

With population growth and climate challenges ahead, Sydney Water is investing billions to expand capacity and upgrade systems.

After last year’s crippling shortage, the government and Baxter Healthcare will expand local manufacturing to 80 million units annually by 2027.

With the Prime Minister’s push for flat-fee childcare, critics highlight the potential problems in centre-based care, including safety breaches and profit-driven motives.

With four debates lined up for the federal election between Anthony Albanese and Peter Dutton, will we get genuine policy discussion or just rehearsed attacks and media theatrics asks Michael McLaren.

Group General Manager at Al Aseel Georges Badr chats with Michael about Lebanese food.

NSW is launching a 12-month pill testing trial starting this weekend at the Yours and Owls music festival in Wollongong.

The Coalition is pushing for domestic gas producers to prioritize supply for Australia in exchange for approving new projects, citing a looming east coast gas shortage by 2028

The NSW Government is reviewing the Companion Animals Act 1998 for the first time in 20 years, considering cat curfews, containment laws, and measures to improve responsible pet ownership and protect native wildlife.

Young Australians face a widening wealth gap as $164 trillion shifts globally.

Michael McLaren has slammed a US governor for his proposal to replace gender-specific terms like "mother" in state law, sparking criticism from Republicans who call it a left-wing agenda.

Canadian filmmaker Dianne Whelan shares how her solo trek along the world’s longest trail became an Oscar-nominated documentary.

Tonight’s documentary explores the implications of Australia’s switch from a French deal to the AUKUS alliance.

Rising land values increase pressure on homeowners as land tax burdens grow amid affordability challenges.

China pushes back against Australian concerns amid rising geopolitical strain in regional waters. Former Defence Minister for Australia Joel Fitzgibbon weighs in on the situation with Michael. 

International Chef  Tom Kime who cooked for The King chats with Michael about his history of being a chef and some of the wonderful foods of the world he has made. 

Professor Geoffrey Brooks discusses how green steel can transform Australia’s manufacturing industry and cut carbon emissions.