The discovery of an abandoned caravan full of explosives on the outskirts of Sydney earlier this year triggered widespread panic and fear. 

There were reports of a list of Jewish targets – and right away, NSW Premier Chris Minns and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called it terrorism.

In the months that followed, discourse concerning the caravan became increasingly politicised, with Peter Dutton blaming the prime minister for putting Australians at risk.

But all the while, police were warning the whole thing could be a hoax.

Today, special correspondent for The Saturday Paper, Jason Koutsoukis, on how a criminal con job became a political football – and the implications for our national security.

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Guest: Special correspondent for The Saturday Paper Jason Koutsoukis

Photo: Lukas Coch / AAP Image