4BC Breakfast

Listen to 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews weekdays from 5:30am-9am.

In a heated exchange during parliamentary questioning, the Reserve Bank of Australia admitted it has not modelled the economic impact of reducing federal government spending. Economic futurist Evan Lucas joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to analyse the fallout, explaining that while the central bank cites a lack of resources, real fiscal reform would require tackling major budget line items like the age pension and welfare.

The newly released 2026 Intergenerational Report reveals that Australia's population is aging faster than anticipated due to a rapidly declining birth rate, threatening to place severe pressure on the federal budget. Economist Gene Tunny joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to explain that while immigration provides a partial buffer, true long-term stability requires addressing root causes like housing affordability and economic stagnation.

Former Brisbane Lions coach Leigh Matthews joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to discuss the club's fourth consecutive Grand Final appearance and their chance to build a modern AFL dynasty. He weighed in on the team's mental preparation, Chris Fagan's leadership style, and the likelihood of Lachie Neale overturning his one-match suspension at the tribunal ahead of their clash against Fremantle.

The nearly 100-year-old Coorparoo Bowls Club has been saved after being sold to the local Griffin Hospitality Group, which plans a major overhaul of the clubhouse, bar, and kitchen. New owner Will Griffin, who originally signed a petition to save the venue, joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to confirm the greens will remain untouched and operations will stay open throughout renovations scheduled for early next year.

Hear all this week's best bits from 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews.

Listen to 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews weekdays from 5:30am-9am.

Following S&P Global’s downgrade of Queensland's credit rating to AA, economists are urging the government to axe popular cost-of-living measures like 50-cent public transport fares and sports vouchers. With Olympic infrastructure costs soaring and investors increasingly favouring Victoria over Queensland, Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast debates whether keeping cheap fares is worth the long-term financial risk.

The federal government’s overhaul of the working holiday visa program will replace guaranteed second- and third-year visas with a lottery system, potentially wiping out over 10,000 backpacker jobs in Queensland alone. Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) CEO Natasha Wheeler joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to warn this sudden reduction will devastate regional farms, hospitality, and tourism while worsening local food security and supply chains.

Brisbane Lions star Dayne Zorko joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to open up about the immense pressure and physical toll of preliminary final matches ahead of their high-stakes clash against Hawthorn. He also praised teammate Logan Morris's massive contract extension and dynamic play while keeping his focus strictly on surviving the weekend.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast addressed mounting listener frustration over rapidly rising Brisbane fuel prices, which are pushing toward $2.40/L for unleaded and past $2.90/L for diesel. Guest Rowan Lee (CEO of the Australasian Convenience and Petroleum Marketers Association) explained that international wholesale increases in Singapore drive these replacement costs, assuring listeners that while prices will remain high, Australia will not face a physical fuel supply shortage.

Listen to 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews weekdays from 5:30am-9am.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast and Mark 'MG' Geyer discuss the latest developments in the NRL finals, including team matchups and ticket availability for key games. They also explore the prospect of a new NRL team in Toowoomba, debating the expansion's financial backing and potential implications for the player pool.

Shadow Minister for Home Affairs Senator Jonathon Duniam joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to slam the Labor government's newly released migration strategy, arguing that bringing in hundreds of thousands of immigrants without adequate housing worsens Australia's crisis.  He called for urgent red tape reduction to speed up home construction while emphasising the need to prioritise essential skilled workers over excessive numbers of temporary visas.

Over 3,100 Queensland Police Service personnel have joined a class action against the QPS over the September 2021 COVID-19 vaccine mandate, which forced non-compliant staff to face unpaid suspensions or job loss. Justin Sibley, Director of Sibley Lawyers, joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to discuss the looming 4:00 PM deadline, explaining that the lawsuit seeks justice and compensation for affected officers following a court ruling that deemed the mandate unlawful.

Premier David Crisafulli has announced a $32 billion tech hub in Dalby hosted by US AI company Anthropic, promising up to 1,400 permanent jobs. However, the proposal has sparked local anxiety regarding its immense demand for power, water usage, and the accommodation of 1,500 construction workers.

Shadow Attorney-General Meaghan Scanlon joined Jason Matthews on 4BC breakfast to discuss the state’s recent credit downgrade - the first in 17 years - blaming the government's lack of transparency around rising 2032 Olympic venue costs. Meanwhile, Jason and a caller debate whether long-term stadium infrastructure is worth the high price tag or if public funds are being severely mismanaged.

Listen to 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews weekdays from 5:30am-9am.

Broncos star Ben Hunt joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast from his off-season break to discuss his recovery plans and praise teammate Xavier Willison following his Player of the Year win. He also reflects on an emotional farewell tribute at the Broncos awards night and offers his expert analysis on the upcoming NRL finals clashes.

Marking National Victims of Crime Day, Army veteran Chris Sanders scaled the Story Bridge to raise crucial funds for the Voice for Victims Foundation. Speaking with Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast, Sanders detailed his harrowing survival after a violent teenage gang attack left him with a collapsed lung, while calling out the frustrating legal system that repeatedly released his teenage attacker on bail.

After cycling from Adelaide to Toowoomba, Goondiwindi farmer Dave Batterham is completing the final leg of a 3,000km journey on foot, pushing a wheelbarrow to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital. The extreme physical challenge honours his late wife Jude, who lost her battle with neuroendocrine cancer, while raising vital funds for cancer research and hospital foundations.

Queensland Minister for Youth Justice, Victim Support, and Corrective Services Laura Gerber joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to detail new parliamentary legislation to overhaul the state's parole system, keep high-risk offenders behind bars longer, and give victims a greater voice. During the interview, Gerber also addressed ongoing union strike action by youth detention workers, arguing that new safety protocols have been introduced while negotiations over pay continue.

Listen to 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews weekdays from 5:30am-9am.

Following Queensland’s first credit rating downgrade in 17 years, Queensland Resources Council CEO Janette Hewson joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to call on the government to overhaul its 2022 coal royalty tax rates to attract offshore investment. She argued that lowering the current rates will restore confidence, support regional economies, and generate the critical revenue needed for state infrastructure projects.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast addressed listener reactions to One Nation leader Pauline Hanson’s resurfaced podcast comments about Indigenous Australians. Indigenous leader Warren Mundine joined the discussion to express his initial shock over the statements while simultaneously defending Hanson against accusations of racism.

Fresh off winning a domestic quadruple via a dramatic 93rd-minute final, Brisbane Lions FC captain Sean Carlos joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to outline how the underdog club is preparing for their historic Australia Cup semi-final against South Melbourne. Balancing full-time trades and office jobs, the team relies on a 12-game winning streak and an unshakeable "be brave" mindset as they look to knock off yet another powerhouse side.

A controversial new sports betting campaign featuring actress Sydney Sweeney has sparked outrage among elite athletes who accuse it of sexualizing women’s sports. Four-time Olympic gold medalist Cate Campbell joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to analyse whether the provocative ad undermines female athletes or simply masterfully trolls the public for maximum attention.

Listen to 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews weekdays from 5:30am-9am.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast described the disturbing sight of an injured koala stranded on the Gateway Motorway, prompting him to contact local rescue teams. Koala Rescue Brisbane South founder John Knight joined Jason to explain how rapid land clearing and recent weather conditions have pushed a record 100 koalas a month into urban danger zones, urging the public to report sightings and volunteer.

Former Queensland Premier Campbell Newman joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to criticise current Premier David Crisafulli after the state’s credit rating was downgraded due to surging public debt.  Newman warned that skyrocketing interest costs will force higher everyday taxes and urged the government to boost revenue by reversing coal royalty hikes and lifting the uranium mining ban.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese delivered an emotional defence of his late mother after resurfaced comments from Pauline Hanson criticised her extended tenure in public housing. Meanwhile, political editor Michael Pachi joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to discuss new poll figures showing a significant drop in public trust for the Labor government amid rising living costs and economic concerns.

A South East Queensland court adjourned a police officer's domestic violence protection order update simply because the text was printed in an eight-point font to fit system limits. The Chief Magistrate's office confirmed the delay was not standard practice, raising concerns over wasted police resources and courtroom priorities.

Hear all this week's best bits from 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews.

Listen to 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews weekdays from 5:30am-9am.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) have launched an investigation into alarming online death threats and explicit calls for the assassination of One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, which were uncovered in social media posts by individuals claiming political affiliations. Commentators and online observers have strongly condemned these violent posts as criminal and dangerous. At the same time, the AFP has confirmed receipt of the reports and said active inquiries are underway.

Brisbane poet Rupert McCall joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to reflect on returning to New York for the 25th anniversary of 9/11, recalling how he was originally invited to Ground Zero in 2011 after FDNY firefighters heard his tribute poem "A Firefighter's Dream".  During the interview, he shared his personal memories of September 11, praised the enduring resilience of the firefighters, and briefly chatted about staying up late in New York to catch the Dolphins' NRL semi-final.

Marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terror attacks, veteran news presenter Sandra Sully joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to reflect on breaking the shocking news live to Australian television audiences. She opened up about the immense pressure of reporting on an unfolding global disaster and discussed the lasting, unique connection she shares with viewers who watched the tragedy alongside her.

Nine News Chief Political Correspondent Charles Croucher joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to examine escalating infighting among conservative politicians over a controversial One Nation video. The discussion also covered the Communications Minister's stumbles while explaining new online safety laws that critics fear could restrict free speech on news websites.

Marking 25 years since the September 11 terror attacks, FDNY firefighter Peter Fallucca joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to share his harrowing, miraculous story of surviving the North Tower collapse while climbing 23 floors to save lives. He opened up about the devastating loss of his ladder housemates, the trauma of survivor's guilt, and the ongoing toxic health impacts faced by Ground Zero first responders.

Listen to 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews weekdays from 5:30am-9am.

Liberal MP Andrew Hastie has launched a scathing attack on One Nation leaders Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce, labelling them "lying cowards" over a satirical cartoon that depicted him as a traitor following his testimony in the Ben Roberts-Smith case. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faces intense scrutiny and calls to resign after his local golf club received a $6 million invitation-only government grant.

Apple has officially unveiled its highly anticipated first foldable iPhone, featuring advanced AI technology, major battery upgrades, and an 80% larger screen that folds like a passport. Tech expert Charlie Brown joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to discuss whether the device's steep $2,700 to $3,500 price tag is justified, how Apple continues to dominate sales despite stiff hardware competition, and the shock around price hikes across the entire iPhone 18 line-up.

Bravehearts CEO Alison Geale joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast ahead of Bravehearts Day to highlight Australia's alarming child sexual abuse statistics and emphasise the urgent need for community-wide prevention, education, and counselling support. She shared practical advice on starting early personal safety conversations with children and explained how donations directly fund critical educational programs like Ditto's Keep Safe Adventure.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese faces intense criticism for failing to declare an honorary membership at a local golf club that received an exclusive $6 million community grant. Nationals Senator Bridget McKenzie joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to highlight the double standard, citing her own past resignation over a conflict of interest and urging the PM to follow his own ministerial code of conduct.

Listen to 4BC Breakfast with Jason Matthews weekdays from 5:30am-9am.

Australian test scores have dropped significantly, with Year 10 students performing at levels expected of Year 8 students two decades ago. While experts discuss whether technology or teaching methods are to blame, callers argue that weakened teacher authority and poor parenting are fueling classroom distractions and declining results.

Police Minister Dan Purdie joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to announce that Queensland's Daniel's Law website has exceeded 400,000 visits since launching late last year. The public child sex offender register has empowered parents to check local threats, leading to multiple investigations, arrests, and the capture of missing offenders.

Brisbane Broncos star Ben Hunt joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Breakfast to open up about the end of the club's season, the low-key celebrations following their Thursday exit, and the emotional send-offs for departing teammates.  He also addressed rumours surrounding Cameron Munster potentially joining the Broncos, broke down Penrith's dominance heading into the finals, and shared his candid thoughts on Latrell Mitchell's controversial hit.

Following widespread backlash from over 500 international rowers and athletes concerning the suitability and safety of the Fitzroy River venue, Premier David Crisafulli fiercely defended the location by accusing critics of being interstate and overseas "elitist bullies". In response, rowing figure Ray Ebert joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to deny the elitism claims, explaining that the venue lacks proper Olympic-grade infrastructure and instead suggested a purpose-built alternative facility in Lawnton.

Following an independent assurance review into Toowoomba Hospital's maternity unit, Jason Matthews 4BC investigates shocking allegations of obstetric violence, surgical errors, and severe trauma suffered by local mothers. In response to Queensland Health’s written statement, Maternity Consumer Network Director Alecia Staines slams the bureaucracy for a lack of transparency and for failing to hold executives accountable.