4BC Mornings - Highlights

A highly sophisticated cryptocurrency scam is utilising AI-generated deepfakes of Australian politicians fighting to trick citizens into handing over their superannuation and bank details. Tech expert Lee Stark joined Jason Mathews on 4BC Mornings to warn that while social media giants like Meta benefit from the ad revenue generated by these campaigns, they are doing little to stop fraudulent content that is costing Australians billions of dollars annually.

One Nation has raised over $1.8 million in just 24 hours for its "Fire the Liar" campaign, sparking intense debate over whether Australia has permanently shifted to a three-party political system.  Political Editor Michael Pachi joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to break down how this massive fundraising surge, backed by moving billboards in the Prime Minister's own electorate, is forcing major parties to reconsider their preference strategies ahead of the next election.

A series of random drive-by slingshot attacks in Brisbane has left four innocent pedestrians injured, including a 22-year-old woman with a severe forehead laceration and a 64-year-old woman struck in the jaw. Jason Matthews on 4BC  vehemently condemns the perpetrators, arguing that a toxic online culture has blurred the line between harmless pranks and criminal assault, while noting that four suspects are set to face court later this month.

A brutal knife attack in Belfast that left victim, Stephen Ogilvie, without his left eye has triggered widespread, racially motivated riots across the city. While the city centre experienced a tense, lockdown-like quiet, violent clashes erupted on the outskirts as protesters targeted hotels housing migrants and homes belonging to foreign nationals.

Economist Leith van Onselen joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to discuss how major banks like CBA and NAB have shifted their outlooks to predict a pause in interest rate hikes due to a weakening Australian economy. However, the conversation shifts to a looming "energy Armageddon," where massive tech investments into AI data centres are set to skyrocket electricity demand just as the government plans to shut down reliable coal-fired power stations.

The Albanese Labor Government is under fire after granting a $258 million taxpayer-funded concessional loan to an Indian government-backed renewable energy company for a solar project in India. Shadow Trade Minister Matt Canavan joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to condemn the move, arguing that Australian funds should support domestic industries and lower rising local electricity bills rather than bankrolling foreign solar panels.

Australian cricket legend Adam Gilchrist joined Jason Mornings on 4BC Mornings to announce the launch of El Aquero, a premium, additive-free tequila brand he developed alongside his wife and best friend. Gilchrist shared the story behind the brand's name, its authentic production process in Mexico, and how he hopes to shift the culture around how people responsibly enjoy tequila.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings discussed Productivity Commission Chair Danielle Wood's new essay on Australia's predictable irrationality regarding risk and the crippling rise of red tape. Institute of Public Affairs Deputy Executive Director Daniel Wild joins the program to break down how excessive bureaucracy, hidden housing costs, and "woke" green policies are actively stifling the nation's productivity and economic growth.

New research from the Sammy D Foundation reveals that 83% of Australians are deeply concerned about the "manosphere's" influence on young boys. Foundation founder Neil Davis joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to discuss how their programs in schools and sporting clubs are working to counteract toxic online advice and teach respectful relationships.

Former NRL and Fiji international forward Kane Evans has bravely come out as gay during a powerful interview on Nine's 100% Footy. He detailed his post-career battles with substance abuse and homelessness while wrestling with his sexuality, but expressed immense relief and freedom after finally sharing his truth.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings paid tribute to the late Dr. Richard Scolyer, the world-renowned cancer researcher and 2024 Australian of the Year, who passed away at age 59 following a battle with brain cancer. His close friend Mark Barretta joined the program to share personal stories of Dr. Scolyer’s determination on the Tour de Cure, his revolutionary medical breakthroughs, and the confirmation of an upcoming state funeral.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings and education consultant Dr. Kevin Donnelly discuss a damning new Menzies Research Centre report outlining how Australia's curriculum has become overcrowded, sub-standard, and overly focused on "woke" political correctness. They advocate for slashing the core curriculum to 60% of the school week to eliminate bloated bureaucracy, reduce climate anxiety in students, and give schools the autonomy to reintroduce trades, sports, and patriotic values.

Brisbane's Sofitel is hosting the prestigious Global Ag Investing conference, marking the very first time this massive industry event has been held in the Southern Hemisphere. Portfolio Director Jonathan Levin joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to explain that 350 global institutional investors, representing $10 trillion in assets, are meeting to tour Queensland's agricultural assets, explore agtech infrastructure, and coordinate massive generational investments to help Australia feed a booming global population.

The federal government is proposing hidden changes to disaster recovery funding that will force states to shoulder more of the financial burden when natural disasters strike. This decision is expected to directly hit Queenslanders through increased local council rates and a further strain on the state budget, already buckling under housing, healthcare, and cost-of-living pressures.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings showcased a diverse lineup of upcoming Queensland Day celebrations, ranging from thong-throwing contests at North Burleigh to pineapple-topped parmies at the Broncos Leagues Club. It also highlights free barefoot bowls paired with Chinese bistro classics at Bramble Bay, a $6 local film festival by Screen Queensland, and unique outback events like chicken racing.

Following a damning child safety inquiry outlining 52 recommendations, Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings revealed how a hostile recruitment workshop left him and his wife "shattered" and forced them to walk away from fostering. Alongside Queensland Foster and Kinship Care CEO Bryan Smith, they highlight the urgent need to treat carers as professional colleagues, address the zero-adoption rate since 2019, and secure state budget funding to safely shift vulnerable children under 12 out of commercial residential care.

Queensland Police Minister Dan Purdie joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to discuss a newly tabled financial review exposing a projected $400 million structural deficit within the state's police service. They addressed a decade of administrative overspending by the previous government, while tackling ongoing controversies surrounding empty property leases, regional vehicle theft data, and the escalating domestic violence crisis.

Following the release of over 200 formerly classified Pentagon documents, astronomer "Astro Dave" Rennick joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to break down unexplainable radar data, pilot testimonies, and the physics-defying speed of recorded UFOs. While Jason remained skeptical about actual alien landings due to a lack of physical evidence, both agreed that the vastness of the universe makes alien life likely, leaving listeners to ponder whether upcoming disclosures will spark a massive cultural shift.

The business community has voiced severe concerns over a newly tabled federal bill that contains a hidden amendment allowing the Commonwealth to discriminate against non-unionised companies for taxpayer contracts. Critics argue that the move undermines national productivity, favours union-friendly deals at the public's expense, and risks replicating state-level procurement disasters across industries like defence and technology.

Following a damning press conference at Parliament House, 4BC listeners call in to share their heart breaking first-hand experiences trying to navigate Queensland's child safety and foster care networks. Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings demanded urgent answers regarding the safety of vulnerable children under five, refusing to back down despite some listener backlash.

As dropping winter temperatures trigger power bill anxiety for many Australians, finance commentator Sarah Wells joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to share practical tips for staying warm without turning on the heat. By bringing back "retro" habits like hot water bottles, layers, and door snakes, she explains how households can normalise cost-conscious choices to achieve long-term financial security.

While EV sales continue to surge across Australia, the public infrastructure required to support them remains heavily concentrated in major metropolitan corridors. Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings was joined by Editor of Wheels, Trent Nikolic, to share first-hand accounts of the logistical nightmares encountered when taking EVs outback, emphasising the high costs and lack of local support for rural stations.

The Queensland Government has reportedly scrapped its proposed ban on riders under 16 using e-scooters and e-bikes, choosing instead a parental supervision model. This policy shift has sparked severe backlash from the medical community, who argue it fails to prioritise child safety and adequately address preventable accidents.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings addressed the Fair Work Commission's decision to implement a 6% minimum wage hike and a 4.75% award wage increase starting July 1. Joined by CEO & Founder of Small Business Association of Australia, Anne Nalder, they argued that while unions celebrate, struggling small businesses will be forced to raise consumer prices or risk total closure to absorb the costs.

The Queensland inquiry into the CFMEU has been extended until December 2027, a decision widely applauded by the construction sector as an opportunity for a major industry reset. Master Builders Queensland Deputy CEO Michael Hopkins joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to discuss the shocking allegations of violence and intimidation revealed so far, stressing the need for permanent cultural and productivity reforms ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games.

The Fair Work Commission has announced a 4.75% increase to the minimum wage starting July 1, sparking heated debate over its impact on small businesses and national inflation. While Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings slammed the decision as irresponsible during an economic crunch, economist Leith van Onselen explained it as a calculated compromise to protect the country's lowest-income earners from falling behind.

A stunning new Redbridge poll places One Nation as the leading political party in Australia at 31%, sparking questions about whether they are now the country's true opposition. Political editor Charles Croucher joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to break down the generational shift, detailing why voter dissatisfaction with the status quo is turning a historic protest vote into a legitimate third-party movement.

Former Premier Campbell Newman joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to fiercely criticise the construction of a new 65,000-seat stadium at Victoria Park, labelling it a costly "act of barbarism" that destroys precious green space. Newman argues that alternative sites like Hamilton North Shore were politically ignored, warning that the project will inevitably blow out to $7 billion and gridlock access to the nearby Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital.

Mackay Mayor Greg Williamson joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to confirm Premier David Crisafulli is open to creating commercial incentives for new coal mines and pits. Despite the Premier’s public denials, the Mayor insisted this strategy is vital to breaking the investment deadlock with mining giants like BHP.

After walking away from a high-stress corporate marketing job with no safety net, a local dad named Dave accidentally launched a booming home-services business called House Husbands. Now, overwhelmed with work but no longer stressed, he joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to launch a Facebook community where struggling men and single fathers can find employment opportunities and a safe space to talk.

4BC Mornings' Jason Matthews and ING's Matt Bowen discuss the rise of the "everyday small wins economy," where consumers are aggressively cutting back on luxuries like café coffees to protect their bank accounts. Surprisingly, the data also highlights the resilience of the "$10.4 billion joy economy," proving that while Australians are cutting back on essentials, they refuse to sacrifice the hobbies and travel that bring them happiness.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings blasted Australian Human Rights Commissioner Anna Cody after a Senate estimates hearing revealed transgender women are protected under pregnancy discrimination laws. He argued that applying these laws to biological males defies common sense and biology, calling the debate an insult to women facing real-world struggles.

Australian primary school principals are calling for a freeze on the 18-year-old NAPLAN writing platform after consecutive years of system crashes that have disrupted students' testing environments. While Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings argued that introducing computers as early as Grade 3 is making children overly dependent on screens, Pat Murphy defends the practice as a vital tool to bridge the digital divide for disadvantaged communities.

The Federal Government has committed $39 million to boost the manufacturing of prefabricated and flat-pack homes in an effort to meet its ambitious national housing targets. While Master Builders deputy CEO Michael Hopkins welcomes the innovation, he joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to warn that solving the housing crisis still requires tackling core issues like red tape, land availability, and severe workforce shortages.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings expressed deep scepticism over Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's denial of involvement after the father of a returned ISIS bride publicly thanked him for his daughter's safe arrival. The commentary contrasted the three weeks taken to lay charges against returning Islamic State women with the single day it took to sign off on prosecuting Victoria Cross recipient Ben Roberts-Smith.

Following a dramatic State of Origin opening clash, Jason Matthews on 4B Mornings and Courier-Mail journalist Robert "Crash" Craddock dissect the tactical brilliance and controversial refereeing decisions that defined the match. Despite a contentious send-off leaving Queensland a man down, the discussion celebrates a game for the ages that culminated in a thrilling, last-minute victory for the New South Wales Blues.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings explored a new Griffith University research review investigating whether human urine can be safely and effectively recycled into agricultural fertiliser. Associate Professor Saeed Iftikhar joined the show to discuss how this "liquid gold" could relieve pressure on Australia's supply chains and protect waterways, despite potential risks like pathogens that still need to be managed.

As fans gear up for the excitement of State of Origin, a sobering statistic reveals that domestic violence incidents spike by 40% during the highly anticipated matches. Katherine Berney from the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to discuss how aggressive alcohol advertising, rapid home delivery, and a lack of systemic government action exacerbate abuse on game nights.

A powerhouse panel of Queensland rugby league legends - Wally Lewis, Petro Civoniceva, and Ben Hunt - unite to dissect the unmatched history and emotional weight of the State of Origin on 4BC Mornings Round Table with Jason Matthews. From wild stories of stolen team buses to predictions for the latest clash, this roundtable captures exactly why the Maroons' connection to their community cannot be replicated.

A final cohort of seven Australian women and 12 children linked to ISIS are scheduled to land in Sydney and Melbourne this evening after leaving a Syrian detention camp. While one woman has been barred from returning under a two-year temporary exclusion order, the arriving mothers face potential arrest, while their children will enter specialised de-radicalisation programs.

Sharing his perspective as a former addict who experienced years of homelessness, guest Beau Haywood joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to highlight how the cost-of-living crisis has forced regular Australians into cars and parks. The conversation challenged community biases about who is homeless and critiques the systemic failures of a housing waitlist that leaves vulnerable citizens behind.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings blasts a $150 million federal budget allocation for Energy Minister Chris Bowen’s role as president of negotiations at the upcoming UN Cop 31 climate conference. The discussion highlighted the diversion of 70 full-time staff and taxpayer funds to global initiatives, arguing that the money should instead support struggling pensioners, healthcare, and homelessness.

Youth Justice and Victim Support Minister Laura Gerber joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to defend the new parole framework, emphasising that victim safety will finally be prioritised over perpetrator rights. This interview also addressed rising community anxieties regarding youth crime, bail loops, and the rollout of the state's controversial "adult crime, adult time" laws.

Australian baseballer Brandan Bidois joined Jason Matthews to share his experiences transitioning from a dual-sport athlete in Brisbane to playing in massive MLB stadiums across North America. The Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher also reflected on family sacrifices, the mentorship of veteran Aussies, and his mother's mad dash to see his major league debut.

US President Donald Trump has flagged an imminent peace deal with Iran, but security expert Neil Fergus joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to warn that deeply entrenched issues remain unresolved. This interview explored Iran’s aggressive new demands - including Bitcoin shipping tolls and a refusal to surrender its enriched uranium - leaving experts highly sceptical of a near-term breakthrough.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings caught up with Step Outside host Paul Burt to discuss the massive 5.5m surf conditions and unseasonal May rainfall shutting down Southeast Queensland beaches. Burty also shared a teaser of the gourmet seafood dishes and exclusive new coffee rub he debuted at the Sanctuary Cove Boat Show.

Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings details a dramatic shift in recent polling, showing a surge for One Nation and Pauline Hanson alongside a sharp decline in Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's favourability. He criticised the Labor government's lavish travel expenses and perceived dishonesty over negative gearing policies, arguing that everyday Australians are demanding common-sense leadership.

New Zealand Finance Minister Nicola Willis joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to pitch her country’s business-friendly policies directly to Australian entrepreneurs feeling battered by recent capital gains tax changes. Promising zero capital gains tax, reduced red tape, and fast-tracked industrial projects, Willis cheekily revived a classic Aussie slogan to welcome disgruntled businesses over the ditch.

Queensland state schools are set to introduce an in-house AI chatbot next month to help teachers save time, but critics worry it could harm students' critical thinking and social interaction. The discussion emphasises that while AI can serve as a highly secure modern encyclopaedia, students must first master subjects using their own brains before interacting with the tool.

Following a surprise jump in Australia's unemployment rate to 4.5%, economist Leith van Onselen joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to warn of a looming recession that could force the RBA to cut interest rates next year. The interview also explored how small businesses are struggling with inflation and AI threats, while a pullback in government-funded NDIS jobs threatens to worsen the labour market slump.