4BC Mornings - Highlights

Billionaire Clive Palmer has officially announced his return to politics, revealing plans for the United Australia Party to contest every seat at the next federal election. Joining Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings, Clive Palmer outlined his "New Deal" policies, which include abolishing Net Zero, scrapping the NDIS, and temporarily reducing immigration to zero.

Brisbane Lions veteran Dayne Zorko joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to reflect on the team's narrow loss to the Bulldogs and the costly tribunal decisions that have depleted their roster. Despite the setbacks, Zorko remained optimistic about their depth and defensive adjustments heading into a tough clash against the Sydney Swans.

New research reveals an alarming trend of Gen Z boys adopting misogynistic views due to the pervasive influence of toxic online influencers. Youth advocate Daniel Principe joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to explain how everyday men can combat this "manosphere" programming by actively modelling healthy, respectful masculinity in their communities.

Queensland musician Sara Yael joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to detail her surreal reality living in Tel Aviv during active conflicts with Iran and Hezbollah. Despite the constant threat of missile strikes and late-night siren runs, she and her sister are finding hope by performing underground concerts for their neighbours in bomb shelters.

New figures reveal a startling trend on the Gold Coast, where 1 in 10 children are now medicated for conditions like ADHD, anxiety, and depression. Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings argued that this spike is driven by rushed doctors and disengaged parenting, urging families to focus on connection rather than quick-fix prescriptions.

A new proposal from the Nationals aims to drastically overhaul Australia's family policy by tripling paid parental leave up to 18 months and offering mothers a 25% HECS debt reduction per child. However, Jason Matthews criticised the plan, questioning its financial viability and arguing that the current six-month allowance is already generous enough.

KPMG's John Berry joined Jason Matthews on 4CB Mornings to warn that the Middle East conflict will impact Australians far beyond the petrol pump, causing severe disruptions to global gas and fertiliser markets. These supply chain bottlenecks, combined with consumer panic buying, threaten to trigger a long-term surge in domestic food prices and broader inflation.

Major flooding has inundated Bundaberg, prompting urgent evacuations and causing significant property damage. Carly Clark from Splitters Farm joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to share her experience of waking up to submerged tourist facilities, missing cattle, and the frustration of delayed flood gauge data.

David Littleproud joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to open up about his shock resignation as Nationals leader, describing the severe exhaustion and toll the role has taken on him over the last eight months. He assured his constituents he isn't going anywhere and will contest the seat of Maranoa in 2028, choosing instead to redirect his energy toward his family and local community.

A new report reveals a massive power shift in the job market, with candidates increasingly demanding flexible working conditions and unique perks before accepting a role. Recruiter Lauren Haxby joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to emphasise the need for employers to offer a strong value proposition. 

Fraser Coast Mayor George Seymour joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to report that his community has largely avoided disaster, despite some dangerous flash flooding in local tributaries. In stark contrast, Bundaberg Mayor Helen Blackburn urged residents to self-evacuate and support each other's mental health as low-lying homes prepare for certain inundation tonight.

A recent $90 billion loss on the Australian share market is sparking fears about the security of retirement funds and global economic stability. Driven by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, The Unconventional Economist Leith Van Onselen joined Jason Mathews on 4BC Mornings to warn that protracted unrest could lead to lower global growth and corporate profitability.

Five members of the Iranian women's soccer team have been granted humanitarian visas in Australia after facing severe backlash in their home country for refusing to sing the national anthem. While Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke detailed a meticulous timeline to prove the decision was made independently, questions remain about whether a late-night phone call from Donald Trump forced the government's hand.

Jason’s team is staging a "hobby intervention" because his lack of after-work activities has officially become everyone else's problem. Listen to the suggestions and Jason’s picky excuses as he searches for a way to fill his afternoons before his 8:00 PM bedtime.

As members of the Iranian women’s soccer team reportedly consider seeking asylum, the Coalition weighs compassion against national security. David Littleproud stressed that while their courage is inspiring, a rigorous vetting process is essential to ensure new arrivals share Australian values.

Australia is a resource-rich nation currently failing the basic 90-day international fuel security standard, leaving our farmers and truckies stranded. Listen to Jason break down why our dependence on imports is about to hit you where it hurts most - your wallet and your supermarket shelves.

From a devastating Australia Day tragedy to a massive milestone at Tangalooma, State MP Russell Field revealed how a lack of government support fuelled his mission to help crime victims. Hear why this new foundation is the lifeline Queensland families have been waiting for.

Intelligence expert Neil Fergus revealed how 50+ Australian personnel are currently embedded in the US Navy’s elite submarine fleet as part of AUKUS training. While the government denies direct involvement in the Middle East conflict, Fergus explained why these sailors must go wherever their US commanders lead.

A shocking systemic failure allowed a 24-year-old lifeguard to continue working around children at a Toowoomba aquatic centre for months after being charged with the rape of a 14-year-old girl. Discover how an interstate "reporting loophole" kept his Blue Card valid until media inquiries finally forced a cancellation, sparking urgent calls for a nationwide overhaul of child safety checks.

Hear 4BC's take on how a "woke" race might actually sound - from forgotten chargers to energy healers on the track.

With land tax soaring and maintenance costs doubling, a wave of investors is preparing to offload properties this July. Top agent Pat Ivey explained why this "liquidation" could finally be the window of opportunity frustrated first-home buyers have been waiting for.

Brisbane Lions star Dayne Zorko joined Jason Matthews to discuss the target on the reigning premiers' backs as they prepare to host the Bulldogs at the Gabba. He also cleared up the mystery behind his "ordinary" new goal song and shares his bold tips for a massive weekend of AFL, NRL, and Matildas action.

Clinical psychologist Viviana Wuthrich joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to dissect the sudden surge in panic buying at petrol stations, attributing the behaviour to collective anxiety and a loss of control. Comparing the fuel frenzy to the COVID-19 toilet paper crisis, the segment explores how social media and visible queues trigger a "herd mentality" that overrides rational decision-making.

Dolphins head coach Kristian Woolf joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to preview the Round 1 clash against South Sydney, confirming the long-awaited return of forwards Tom Flegler and Thomas Gilbert. Woolf also talked up his "elite" backline, praising the preseason work of Selwyn Cobbo and the maturity of young halfback Isaiah Katoa.

Queensland is facing a severe housing affordability crisis driven by an acute shortage of skilled tradespeople like bricklayers and carpenters, despite record migration numbers. HIA Senior Economist Tom Devitt joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to argue that only a tiny fraction of new migrants have construction skills, calling for better visa targeting and a shift in local education to value trades over university degrees.

One Nation’s James Ashby joined Jason Mathews on 4BC Mornings to argue that the government takes potential threats to the cattle industry more seriously than threats to national security. He claimed that while meat imports are strictly controlled to prevent disease, the government is actively preparing to repatriate ISIS brides who pose a risk to the Australian way of life.

Shadow Minister for Home Affairs & Immigration, Jono Duniam, joined Jason Mathews on 4BC Mornings to criticise the Albanese government for blocking a bill intended to criminalise the return of ISIS brides. He also covered the recent Liberal Party election review, with Duniam insisting the opposition is learning from past mistakes and refocusing on cost-of-living and housing issues.

University of Queensland researchers are recruiting for a groundbreaking ovarian cancer screening trial, while a separate Australian-led study has found a blood test that can predict testicular cancer relapse earlier than traditional scans. Survivor Ricky Smith joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to share his accidental diagnosis during fertility treatments and urged men to drop the stigma around health checks.

Fresh off a premiership victory, Broncos coach Michael Maguire joined Jason Matthews to discuss the team's shorter pre-season and their determination to defend the title against the Panthers this Friday. He also addressed the surprise departure of star forward Payne Haas, noting the club intends to "rally around" him for his final season.

Federal Member for Flynn, Colin Boyce, joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to criticise the environmental destruction caused by renewable energy projects along the Great Dividing Range. He argued that foreign companies are profiting from government subsidies while utilising legislative loopholes to bypass standard environmental oversight.

Aviation expert Robyn Ironside joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to unpack the dire situation for Australian tourists facing cancelled flights and nullified travel insurance due to international conflict.  With airlines suspending major routes, passengers must carefully weigh the steep costs of alternative flights against the expense of extending their hotel stays to wait it out.

Federal Parliament resumes with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese facing significant polling pressure and a sliding primary vote on his 63rd birthday. Nine's Chief Political Reporter joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to discuss that, meanwhile, new Liberal leader Angus Taylor faces his first major tests, including defining his leadership and navigating Labor's attempts to wedge the Coalition over Pauline Hanson's controversial comments.

Professor Shahram Akbarzadeh joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to unpack the recent US and Israeli bombings in Tehran following the death of Iran's Supreme Leader. He warns that despite hopes for regime change, the lack of an organised opposition and the absence of foreign ground troops will likely lead to a drawn-out regional conflict rather than democracy.

The Australia Institute's Greg Jericho joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to discuss how the escalating Middle East conflict will hit Australian wallets, starting with a rapid surge in fuel costs. They warn about the likelihood of multinational companies using the crisis to artificially inflate grocery and retail prices, urging the public to stay vigilant.

The ACCC is currently taking Coles to federal court over allegations of "illusory" discounts on hundreds of everyday products between 2022 and 2023. Consumer finance expert at Zyft, Joel Gibson, joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to explain that the outcome of this massive case will clarify consumer laws, though shoppers might ultimately foot the bill for any fines.

A new study from Flinders University reveals that believing in conspiracy theories isn't about a lack of intelligence, but rather a psychological coping mechanism for a chaotic world. Neophytos Georgiou from Flinders University joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to explain how our brains use these unprovable ideas to make sense of overwhelming daily information.

Since the introduction of recent aged care reforms, providers have been accused of exploiting uncapped fees to charge exorbitant rates for basic services. Seniors are now facing impossible choices between essential care and daily living needs due to skyrocketing costs for cleaning, gardening, and nursing.

A devastating night on Queensland roads has left two people dead and two others fighting for their lives after a series of car and motorbike crashes. Authorities are also investigating an unfolding crane incident in Hemmant and the discovery of a body in a Burpengary East park.

January's underlying inflation hit 3.4%, sitting uncomfortably above the Reserve Bank's target band and prompting fears of another interest rate hike in May. Economist Leith Van Onselen joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to argue that government energy subsidies only temporarily masked the true cost of living, while excessive government spending continues to keep inflation high.

After a devastating hailstorm left 84-year-old Elva's asbestos roof riddled with holes, she was forced to sleep in an armchair surrounded by buckets. Thanks to 4BC Morning's appeal, the Brisbane community rallied to provide free repairs, temporary patching, and a massive $10,000 donation to make her home safe again.  

Following a violent assault on a young Woolworths worker, industry leaders are demanding that Queensland introduce Workplace Protection Orders. CEO of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores, Theo Foukarre, joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to argue that adopting Workplace Protection Orders in Queensland will streamline the legal process, giving police the power to easily banish violent thugs so workers can get home safely.

Sean Jenner, CEO of Big4 Holiday Parks, joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to discuss "The Aussie Review," a massive new competition giving one lucky winner a year-long road trip. The prize includes a Ford Ranger, a Crusader caravan, and a 12-month stay across Big4 parks in exchange for documenting the best parts of Australia. 

Annual inflation has held steady at 3.8%, though slight ticks in underlying figures are largely driven by the fading impact of electricity rebates rather than extreme price spikes. Chief Economist at the Australia Institute, Greg Jericho, joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to explain that while consumers and small businesses are rapidly tightening their belts, a potential interest rate hike is unlikely until at least May.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was evacuated from the Lodge following a bomb threat, highlighting a disturbing trend of increased security risks for Australian politicians. Federal Politics Editor Michael Pachi joins Jason Matthews to discuss scaling back capital gains tax concessions, which are raising questions about housing supply, even as monthly inflation holds steady at 3.8%.

After a devastating November hailstorm left 84-year-old Elva with a leaking asbestos roof, 4BC listeners and local builders rallied to help. Today, building consultants and asbestos removal experts are stepping in to patch the holes and address severe mould risks, finally giving Elva a dry place to sleep.

Pharmacy Guild President Chris Owen joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to discuss the severe impacts of shingles, a viral condition that attacks the nervous system. They highlighted that the once-pricey vaccine is now covered by the government for eligible Australians over 50, urging listeners to speak to their healthcare providers.

New research from Flinders University reveals that zero-alcohol beverage advertisements are making teenagers more likely to desire full-strength alcohol. Researcher Nathan Harrison joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to suggest that these ads, primarily seen on social media, serve as brand marketing that bypasses current alcohol advertising restrictions.

Journalist Sharri Markson joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings to reflect on her harrowing experience surviving the December 14 Bondi terror attack and the making of her new Sky News documentary, Bondi: A Timeline of Terror. The 90-minute special reveals untold stories of heroism, features new emergency audio, and highlights the devastating impact the tragedy had on victims and their families.

Cecilia Cobb of 'For Parents' joined Jason Matthews on 4BC Mornings on her Senate Inquiry appearance, advocating for a broader, more flexible childcare subsidy. She argued that the current $16 billion system abandons families and needs to officially include alternative options like nannies, au pairs, and grandparents.

Following a Supreme Court ruling that struck down previous trade levies, the US has invoked a new law to impose a 15% baseline tariff on imported goods, directly hitting Australian lamb and goat exports. Meat and Livestock Association Managing Director Michael Crowley to explain that while the new 15% US tariff on lamb and goat meat will impact supply chains, strong global demand should keep livestock prices stable.