Trump threatens genocide

Will there be a recession?

Matt Canavan's economic revolution

Why land values have skyrocketed

The US president is wreaking havoc in Iran and around the world.

On this episode of Dollars & Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss Trump’s horrific threats against Iran, whether Australians should be concerned about a recession as a result of the global uncertainty the US president is causing, Matt Canavan’s plans for an economic revolution, and why land values have skyrocketed while the value of the dwellings on the land hasn’t changed much at all.

This discussion was recorded on Thursday 9 April 2026.

Visit The Point for research, analysis, explainers and factchecks from experts at the Australia Institute and beyond.

Host: Greg Jericho, Chief Economist, the Australia Institute // @grogsgamut

Host: Elinor Johnston-Leek, Senior Content Producer, the Australia Institute // @elinorjohnstonleek

Show notes:

Is Australia headed for a recession? I hope not - but the RBA should be more worried by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (April 2026)

After America, the Australia Institute

The data shows Australia’s population growth isn’t out of control, it has simply returned to trend by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (March 2026)

Theme music: Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au. Subscribe to Dollars & Sense on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

The US president is wreaking havoc in Iran and around the world.
On this episode of Dollars &amp; Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss Trump&rsquo;s horrific threats against Iran, whether Australians should be concerned about a recession as a result of the global uncertainty the US president is causing, Matt Canavan&rsquo;s plans for an economic revolution, and why land values have skyrocketed while the value of the dwellings on the land hasn&rsquo;t changed much at all.
This discussion was recorded on Thursday 9 April 2026.
Visit <a href="https://thepoint.com.au/">The Point</a> for research, analysis, explainers and factchecks from experts at the Australia Institute and beyond.
Host:&nbsp;Greg Jericho, Chief Economist, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/grogsgamut.bsky.social">@grogsgamut</a>
Host:&nbsp;Elinor Johnston-Leek, Senior Content Producer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/elinorjohnstonleek.bsky.social">@elinorjohnstonleek</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/grogonomics/2026/apr/08/australia-recession-economy-rba-trump-iran">Is Australia headed for a recession? I hope not - but the RBA should be more worried</a> by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (April 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/news/category/podcasts/after-america/">After America</a>, the Australia Institute
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260325-the-data-shows-australias-population-growth-isnt-out-of-control-it-has-simply-returned-to-trend">The data shows Australia&rsquo;s population growth isn&rsquo;t out of control, it has simply returned to trend</a> by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (March 2026)
Theme music:&nbsp;Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>. Subscribe to&nbsp;Dollars&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Sense&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dollars-sense/id1717300562">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5FWzwVKWUR2tZCbXSKuBE2?si=1c2f3558cc6d44ab">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/dollars-sense/9cc37d00-6a4f-013c-9f4c-0acc26574db2">Pocket Casts</a>&nbsp;or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

The US president is wreaking havoc in Iran and around the world.

Will Trump send Australia into recession?

There is no reason our societies can’t change radically, to produce more of what we need and less of the things that are sowing the seeds of our own destruction, says Yanis Varoufakis.

On this episode of Follow the Money, we bring you highlights from the recent Australian tour of economist and author Yanis Varoufakis, with contributions from a cast of very special guests. Across live events in Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne, they discuss misogyny, political power, the erosion of Palestinian rights, and Yanis’ latest book, Raise Your Soul: A Personal History of Resistance.

Become an Australia Institute supporter today.

Guest: Yanis Varoufakis, economist & author // @yanisvaroufakis

Guest: Clare Wright OAM, Professor of History and Professor of Public Engagement, La Trobe University // @clarewrighthistorian

Guest: Randa Abdel-Fattah, Future Fellow in Sociology, Macquarie University // @RandaAFattah

Guest: Richard Denniss, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // @richarddenniss

Guest: Emma Shortis, Director, International & Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // @emmashortis

Guest: Louise Adler AM, former Director, Adelaide Writers’ Week

Guest: Leanne Minshull, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // @leanneminshull

Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // @ebonybennett

Show notes:

Raise Your Soul: A Personal History of Resistance by Yanis Varoufakis, Penguin Books (November 2025)

A Time for Bravery: What happens when Australia chooses courage?, Australia Institute Press (December 2025)

What’s the Big Idea? 32 Ideas for a Better Australia, Australia Institute Press (December 2024)

Naku Dharuk The Bark Petitions: How the People of Yirrkala Changed the Course of Australian Democracy by Clare Wright, Text Publishing (October 2024)

Discipline by Randa Abdel-Fattah, UQ Press (September 2025)

Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au. Subscribe to Follow the Money on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Castsor wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

There is no reason our societies can&rsquo;t change radically, to produce more of what we need and less of the things that are sowing the seeds of our own destruction, says Yanis Varoufakis.
On this episode of Follow the Money, we bring you highlights from the recent Australian tour of economist and author Yanis Varoufakis, with contributions from a cast of very special guests. Across live events in Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne, they discuss misogyny, political power, the erosion of Palestinian rights, and Yanis&rsquo; latest book, Raise Your Soul: A Personal History of Resistance.
Become an <a href="https://nb.australiainstitute.org.au/donate">Australia Institute supporter</a> today.
Guest: Yanis Varoufakis, economist &amp; author // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/yanisvaroufakis.bsky.social">@yanisvaroufakis</a>
Guest: Clare Wright OAM, Professor of History and Professor of Public Engagement, La Trobe University // <a href="https://www.instagram.com/clarewrighthistorian/">@clarewrighthistorian</a>
Guest: Randa Abdel-Fattah, Future Fellow in Sociology, Macquarie University // <a href="https://x.com/RandaAFattah">@RandaAFattah</a>
Guest: Richard Denniss, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/richarddenniss.bsky.social">@richarddenniss</a>
Guest: Emma Shortis, Director, International &amp; Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/emmashortis.bsky.social">@emmashortis</a>
Guest: Louise Adler AM, former Director, Adelaide Writers&rsquo; Week
Guest: Leanne Minshull, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/leanneminshull.bsky.social">@leanneminshull</a>
Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/ebonybennett.bsky.social">@ebonybennett</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://www.penguin.com.au/books/raise-your-soul-9781529970210">Raise Your Soul: A Personal History of Resistance</a> by Yanis Varoufakis, Penguin Books (November 2025)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/a-time-for-bravery">A Time for Bravery: What happens when Australia chooses courage?</a>, Australia Institute Press (December 2025)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/whats-the-big-idea">What&rsquo;s the Big Idea? 32 Ideas for a Better Australia</a>, Australia Institute Press (December 2024)
<a href="https://www.textpublishing.com.au/books/naku-dharuk-the-bark-petitions-the-extraordinary-story-of-how-the-people-of-yirrkala-changed-the-course-of-australian-democracy">Naku Dharuk The Bark Petitions: How the People of Yirrkala Changed the Course of Australian Democracy</a> by Clare Wright, Text Publishing (October 2024)
<a href="https://www.uqp.com.au/books/discipline">Discipline</a> by Randa Abdel-Fattah, UQ Press (September 2025)
Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>. Subscribe to Follow the Money on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/follow-the-money/id1078781512">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0JOrvYNuhHOwaFuZ7PlW1d?si=e9265dc6a04d40b3">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/follow-the-money/2aeecbb0-b36a-0133-2e57-6dc413d6d41d">Pocket Casts</a> or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

There is no reason our societies can’t change radically, to produce more of what we need and less of the things that are sowing the seeds of our own destruction, says Yanis Varoufakis.

Yanis Varoufakis on misogyny, resistance and why everything could be different

Albanese's address to the nation

Policy responses to fuel price hikes

Australia's great gas giveaway

Greg goes to a gas conference...

Until a 25% gas export tax is put in place, Australians are missing out on billions every year that could be used to support people through the living standards crisis.

On this episode of Dollars & Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss the prime minister’s national address on the impacts of the US-Israel war on Iran, policy responses to fuel price hikes, Australia’s gas giveaway and Greg’s visit to a gas conference.

This discussion was recorded on Thursday 2 April 2026.

Check out our Australia’s Gas Giveaway live tracker.

Host: Greg Jericho, Chief Economist, the Australia Institute // @grogsgamut

Host: Elinor Johnston-Leek, Senior Content Producer, the Australia Institute // @elinorjohnstonleek

Show notes:

Prices skyrocket but major fuel shortages “very unlikely”, Follow the Money (April 2026)

Australia’s land value has gone through the roof. Where does that leave young people who want to buy a home?by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (April 2026)

Fuel costs and RBA hikes equal to a 90 basis point rate rise: 'this is brutal' by Greg Jericho, The Point (March 2026)

Fuelling inequality: The brunt of a global crisis should not be borne by people in poverty by Kristin O’Connell, The Point (March 2026)

The case for a gas export tax, explained by Richard Denniss, The Point (March 2026)

Tax gas exports, invest in health/aged care – new polls, the Australia Institute (March 2026)

Theme music: Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au. Subscribe to Dollars & Sense on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Until a 25% gas export tax is put in place, Australians are missing out on billions every year that could be used to support people through the living standards crisis.
On this episode of Dollars &amp; Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss the prime minister&rsquo;s national address on the impacts of the US-Israel war on Iran, policy responses to fuel price hikes, Australia&rsquo;s gas giveaway and Greg&rsquo;s visit to a gas conference.
This discussion was recorded on Thursday 2 April 2026.
Check out our <a href="https://gas.australiainstitute.org.au/">Australia&rsquo;s Gas Giveaway live tracker</a>.
Host:&nbsp;Greg Jericho, Chief Economist, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/grogsgamut.bsky.social">@grogsgamut</a>
Host:&nbsp;Elinor Johnston-Leek, Senior Content Producer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/elinorjohnstonleek.bsky.social">@elinorjohnstonleek</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/prices-skyrocket-but-major-fuel-shortages-very-unlikely/">Prices skyrocket but major fuel shortages &ldquo;very unlikely&rdquo;</a>, Follow the Money (April 2026)
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/grogonomics/2026/apr/02/australia-land-grab-young-people-little-hope-buying-home">Australia&rsquo;s land value has gone through the roof. Where does that leave young people who want to buy a home?</a> by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (April 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260326-fuel-costs-and-rba-hikes-equal-a-90-basis-point-rate-rise-this-is-brutal">Fuel costs and RBA hikes equal to a 90 basis point rate rise: 'this is brutal'</a> by Greg Jericho, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/260331-fuelling-inequality-the-brunt-of-a-global-crisis-should-not-be-borne-by-people-in-poverty">Fuelling inequality: The brunt of a global crisis should not be borne by people in poverty</a> by Kristin O&rsquo;Connell, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/explainers/260323-the-case-for-a-gas-export-tax-explained">The case for a gas export tax, explained</a> by Richard Denniss, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/tax-gas-exports-invest-in-health-aged-care-new-polls/">Tax gas exports, invest in health/aged care &ndash; new polls</a>, the Australia Institute (March 2026)
Theme music:&nbsp;Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>. Subscribe to&nbsp;Dollars&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Sense&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dollars-sense/id1717300562">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5FWzwVKWUR2tZCbXSKuBE2?si=1c2f3558cc6d44ab">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/dollars-sense/9cc37d00-6a4f-013c-9f4c-0acc26574db2">Pocket Casts</a>&nbsp;or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Until a 25% gas export tax is put in place, Australians are missing out on billions every year that could be used to support people through the living standards crisis.

It’s time to tax gas properly

Why oil prices are so high

Why some fuel stations have run low

Will Australia see fuel rationing?

Fuelling inequality

Australia's missed opportunities

Cutting the fuel excise

Taxing gas ISN'T a diplomatic risk

Petrol and diesel prices are sky high because of the illegal US-Israel war on Iran, but major fuel shortages in Australia are very unlikely. 

Matt Grudnoff and Ebony Bennett discuss Australia’s relatively strong position in global energy supply chains. Matt explains why some petrol stations have run low despite overall fuel supplies remaining steady, how the price hikes are fuelling inequality, and why Scott Morrison’s 2021 claim about an electric vehicle policy putting an “end to the weekend” now looks even more absurd than it did at the time.

This episode was recorded on Tuesday 31 March.

You can sign the Australia Institute’s petition calling on the federal government to make gas exporters pay their fair share.

Guest: Matt Grudnoff, Senior Economist, the Australia Institute // @mattgrudnoff

Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // @ebonybennett

Show notes:

Fuel costs and RBA hikes equal to a 90 basis point rate rise: 'this is brutal' by Greg Jericho, The Point (March 2026)

Fuelling inequality: The brunt of a global crisis should not be borne by people in poverty by Kristin O’Connell, The Point (March 2026)

The case for a gas export tax, explained by Richard Denniss, The Point (March 2026)

Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au. Subscribe to Follow the Money on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Castsor wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Petrol and diesel prices are sky high because of the illegal US-Israel war on Iran, but major fuel shortages in Australia are very unlikely.&nbsp;
Matt Grudnoff and Ebony Bennett discuss Australia&rsquo;s relatively strong position in global energy supply chains. Matt explains why some petrol stations have run low despite overall fuel supplies remaining steady, how the price hikes are fuelling inequality, and why Scott Morrison&rsquo;s 2021 claim about an electric vehicle policy putting an &ldquo;end to the weekend&rdquo; now looks even more absurd than it did at the time.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday 31 March.
You can <a href="https://nb.australiainstitute.org.au/gas_export_tax_b">sign the Australia Institute&rsquo;s petition</a> calling on the federal government to make gas exporters pay their fair share.
Guest: Matt Grudnoff, Senior Economist, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/mattgrudnoff.bsky.social">@mattgrudnoff</a>
Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/ebonybennett.bsky.social">@ebonybennett</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260326-fuel-costs-and-rba-hikes-equal-a-90-basis-point-rate-rise-this-is-brutal">Fuel costs and RBA hikes equal to a 90 basis point rate rise: 'this is brutal'</a> by Greg Jericho, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/260331-fuelling-inequality-the-brunt-of-a-global-crisis-should-not-be-borne-by-people-in-poverty">Fuelling inequality: The brunt of a global crisis should not be borne by people in poverty</a> by Kristin O&rsquo;Connell, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/explainers/260323-the-case-for-a-gas-export-tax-explained">The case for a gas export tax, explained</a> by Richard Denniss, The Point (March 2026)
Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>. Subscribe to Follow the Money on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/follow-the-money/id1078781512">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0JOrvYNuhHOwaFuZ7PlW1d?si=e9265dc6a04d40b3">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/follow-the-money/2aeecbb0-b36a-0133-2e57-6dc413d6d41d">Pocket Casts</a> or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Petrol and diesel prices are sky high because of the illegal US-Israel war on Iran, but major fuel shortages in Australia are very unlikely. 

Prices skyrocket but major fuel shortages "very unlikely"

Iran war update

Lebanon update

US domestic politics

US-Australia relations & AUKUS

The United States and Israel’s war on Iran has been disastrous.

On this episode of After America, Dr Emma Shortis and Angus Blackman discuss the situation with the Strait of Hormuz, Israel’s invasion of Lebanon, why airport security workers in the US aren’t getting paid, and why, despite plenty of evidence suggesting it’s a terrible deal, some Australian policymakers remain committed to the bit with AUKUS.

This episode was recorded on Monday 30 March.

Host: Emma Shortis, Director, International & Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // @emmashortis

Host: Angus Blackman, Executive Producer, Podcasts, the Australia Institute //  @angusrb

Show notes:

Shorter America This Week: Maximum Lethality; Everything has a history; Don't fly with me by Emma Shortis, The Point (March 2026)

Trump is impotently railing against the US’s allies. Albanese is right to avoid the president’s global catastrophe by Allan Behm,The Point (March 2026)

Funeral held for three journalists killed by Israeli strike in Lebanon by William Christou, The Guardian (March 2026)

Evidence Points to US Scattering Mines over Iranian Village by Trevor Ball, Bellingcat (March 2026)

Airports on ICE by Marisa Kabas, The Handbasket (March 2026)

AUKUS raucous in Canberra as submarine experts debate Donald Trump’s deal by Andrew Greene, The Nightly (March 2026)

Andrew Hastie on Insiders, ABC (March 2026)

Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au.

The United States and Israel&rsquo;s war on Iran has been disastrous.
On this episode of After America, Dr Emma Shortis and Angus Blackman discuss the situation with the Strait of Hormuz, Israel&rsquo;s invasion of Lebanon, why airport security workers in the US aren&rsquo;t getting paid, and why, despite plenty of evidence suggesting it&rsquo;s a terrible deal, some Australian policymakers remain committed to the bit with AUKUS.
This episode was recorded on Monday 30 March.
Host: Emma Shortis, Director, International &amp; Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/emmashortis.bsky.social">@emmashortis</a>
Host: Angus Blackman, Executive Producer, Podcasts, the Australia Institute //&nbsp; <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/angusrb.bsky.social">@angusrb</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260327-shorter-america-this-week">Shorter America This Week: Maximum Lethality; Everything has a history; Don't fly with me</a> by Emma Shortis, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/commentisfree/2026/mar/30/trump-is-impotently-railing-against-the-uss-allies-albanese-is-right-to-avoid-the-presidents-global-catastrophe">Trump is impotently railing against the US&rsquo;s allies. Albanese is right to avoid the president&rsquo;s global catastrophe</a> by Allan Behm, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/mar/28/lebanon-condemns-blatant-war-crime-israel-kills-three-journalists">Funeral held for three journalists killed by Israeli strike in Lebanon</a> by William Christou, The Guardian (March 2026)
<a href="https://www.bellingcat.com/news/2026/03/26/us-iran-mines-israel-village-missile-munitions-weapons-war-conflict/">Evidence Points to US Scattering Mines over Iranian Village</a> by Trevor Ball, Bellingcat (March 2026)
<a href="https://www.thehandbasket.co/p/ice-agents-airport-homan-atlanta-houston">Airports on ICE</a> by Marisa Kabas, The Handbasket (March 2026)
<a href="https://thenightly.com.au/politics/aukus-raucous-in-canberra-as-submarine-experts-debate-donald-trumps-deal--c-22058081">AUKUS raucous in Canberra as submarine experts debate Donald Trump&rsquo;s deal</a> by Andrew Greene, The Nightly (March 2026)
<a href="https://iview.abc.net.au/show/insiders/series/0/video/NC2605C010S00">Andrew Hastie on Insiders</a>, ABC (March 2026)
Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>.

The United States and Israel’s war on Iran has been disastrous.

The US has left itself with no good options in Iran

Profits keep driving inflation

Fuel price gouging isâ¦legal?!

Migration isn't causing the housing crisis

Tariff corner: EU edition

Despite big talk from the government about punishing any fuel retailers profiteering from the global energy crisis, many forms of price gouging remain perfectly legal.

On this episode of Dollars & Sense, Matt and Elinor discuss how profits are driving inflation, why the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission doesn’t have the power to take on price gouging properly, and why migration is not causing Australia’s housing crisis. Then, the wheels come off talking about the meat industry.

This discussion was recorded on Thursday 26 March 2026.

What we owe the water: It's time for a fossil fuel treaty by Kumi Naidoo, is available now for just $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.

You can also subscribe to the Vantage Point series to get four essays a year on some of the most pressing issues facing Australia and the world.

Host: Matt Grudnoff, Senior Economist, the Australia Institute // @mattgrudnoff

Host: Elinor Johnston-Leek, Senior Content Producer, the Australia Institute // @elinorjohnstonleek

Show notes:

The data shows Australia’s population growth isn’t out of control, it has simply returned to trend by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (March 2026)

Rising profit margins turbocharged Australia’s latest inflation figures – but something worse is just around the cornerby Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (March 2026)

Profit push is back: the increase in inflation is due to profits by Greg Jericho and Dave Richardson, The Point (March 2026)

Theme music: Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au. Subscribe to Dollars & Sense on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Despite big talk from the government about punishing any fuel retailers profiteering from the global energy crisis, many forms of price gouging remain perfectly legal.
On this episode of Dollars &amp; Sense, Matt and Elinor discuss how profits are driving inflation, why the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission doesn&rsquo;t have the power to take on price gouging properly, and why migration is not causing Australia&rsquo;s housing crisis. Then, the wheels come off talking about the meat industry.
This discussion was recorded on Thursday 26 March 2026.
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/what-we-owe-the-water-vantage-point-issue-4">What we owe the water: It's time for a fossil fuel treaty by Kumi Naidoo</a>, is available now for just $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.
You can also <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">subscribe to the Vantage Point series</a> to get four essays a year on some of the most pressing issues facing Australia and the world.
Host:&nbsp;Matt Grudnoff, Senior Economist, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/mattgrudnoff.bsky.social">@mattgrudnoff</a>
Host:&nbsp;Elinor Johnston-Leek, Senior Content Producer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/elinorjohnstonleek.bsky.social">@elinorjohnstonleek</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260325-the-data-shows-australias-population-growth-isnt-out-of-control-it-has-simply-returned-to-trend">The data shows Australia&rsquo;s population growth isn&rsquo;t out of control, it has simply returned to trend</a> by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/grogonomics/2026/mar/26/australia-inflation-profit-margins-fuel-crisis-supply-chain-shock">Rising profit margins turbocharged Australia&rsquo;s latest inflation figures &ndash; but something worse is just around the corner</a> by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (March 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260324-profit-push-is-back-the-increase-in-inflation-is-due-to-profits">Profit push is back: the increase in inflation is due to profits</a> by Greg Jericho and Dave Richardson, The Point (March 2026)
Theme music:&nbsp;Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>. Subscribe to&nbsp;Dollars&nbsp;&amp;&nbsp;Sense&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dollars-sense/id1717300562">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5FWzwVKWUR2tZCbXSKuBE2?si=1c2f3558cc6d44ab">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/dollars-sense/9cc37d00-6a4f-013c-9f4c-0acc26574db2">Pocket Casts</a>&nbsp;or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Despite big talk from the government about punishing any fuel retailers profiteering from the global energy crisis, many forms of price gouging remain perfectly legal.

Fuel price gouging is…legal?!

Energy markets in a crisis

The 25% gas export tax

Export vs windfall profits tax

NSW ban on new coal mines

A 25% gas export tax would drive down gas prices for Australians and collect billions of dollars that can be used to provide better, cheaper health and education services. 

On this episode of Follow the Money, Rod Campbell and Ebony Bennett discuss the case for a 25% gas export tax and the New South Wales government’s ban on new coal mines.

This episode was recorded on Tuesday 24 March.

You can sign the Australia Institute’s petition calling on the federal government to make gas exporters pay their fair share.

Guest: Rod Campbell, Research Director, the Australia Institute // @rodcampbell

Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // @ebonybennett

Show notes:

The case for a gas export tax, explained by Richard Denniss, The Point (March 2026)

Tax gas exports, invest in health/aged care – new polls, the Australia Institute (March 2026)

What the Middle East war means for Australians and gas companies, the Australia Institute (March 2026)

'No new coal or gas is a slogan, not a policy': Bowen, ABC Radio National (March 2023)

SUMMER SPECIAL | President Anote Tong, Follow the Money, the Australia Institute (January 2017)

What we owe the water: It's time for a fossil fuel treaty by Kumi Naidoo, Australia Institute Press (February 2026)

Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au. Subscribe to Follow the Money on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Castsor wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

A 25% gas export tax would drive down gas prices for Australians and collect billions of dollars that can be used to provide better, cheaper health and education services.&nbsp;
On this episode of Follow the Money, Rod Campbell and Ebony Bennett discuss the case for a 25% gas export tax and the New South Wales government&rsquo;s ban on new coal mines.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday 24 March.
You can <a href="https://nb.australiainstitute.org.au/gas_export_tax_b">sign the Australia Institute&rsquo;s petition</a> calling on the federal government to make gas exporters pay their fair share.
Guest: Rod Campbell, Research Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/rodcampbell.bsky.social">@rodcampbell</a>
Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/ebonybennett.bsky.social">@ebonybennett</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/explainers/260323-the-case-for-a-gas-export-tax-explained">The case for a gas export tax, explained</a> by Richard Denniss, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/tax-gas-exports-invest-in-health-aged-care-new-polls/">Tax gas exports, invest in health/aged care &ndash; new polls</a>, the Australia Institute (March 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/report/what-the-middle-east-war-means-for-australians-and-gas-companies/">What the Middle East war means for Australians and gas companies</a>, the Australia Institute (March 2026)
<a href="https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/radionational-breakfast/-no-new-coal-or-gas-is-a-slogan-not-a-policy-bowen/102061144">'No new coal or gas is a slogan, not a policy': Bowen</a>, ABC Radio National (March 2023)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/summer-special-president-tong/">SUMMER SPECIAL | President Anote Tong</a>, Follow the Money, the Australia Institute (January 2017)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/what-we-owe-the-water-vantage-point-issue-4">What we owe the water: It's time for a fossil fuel treaty</a> by Kumi Naidoo, Australia Institute Press (February 2026)
Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>. Subscribe to Follow the Money on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/follow-the-money/id1078781512">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0JOrvYNuhHOwaFuZ7PlW1d?si=e9265dc6a04d40b3">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/follow-the-money/2aeecbb0-b36a-0133-2e57-6dc413d6d41d">Pocket Casts</a> or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

A 25% gas export tax would drive down gas prices for Australians and collect billions of dollars that can be used to provide better, cheaper health and education services.

How a gas export tax could transform Australia

Situation in Cuba

Impact of Iran war on China

State of US-China relations

Implications for Australia

Far from winding down, tit-for-tat threats on civilian energy infrastructure suggest the US-Israel war on Iran may enter a new spiral of violence.

On this episode of After America, Dr Emma Shortis and Angus Blackman discuss the war on Iran and how American sanctions are creating a humanitarian crisis in Cuba, before Professor James Laurenceson joins the show to talk about the impact of the conflict on China and the postponed Trump-Xi summit.

This episode was recorded on Friday 20 and Monday 23 March.

Guest: James Laurenceson, Professor and Director, Australia-China Relations Institute, University of Technology Sydney // @j-laurenceson

Host: Emma Shortis, Director, International & Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // @emmashortis

Host: Angus Blackman, Executive Producer, Podcasts, the Australia Institute //  @angusrb

Show notes:

Shorter America This Week: History sighs, repeats itself; Surprise: Trump doesn't need allies; A bloodthirsty White House by Emma Shortis, The Point (March 2026)

The attacks on Iran hurt us all by Allan Behm,The Point (March 2026)

Israel planning massive ground invasion of Lebanon, officials say by Barak Ravid, Axios (March 2026)

UN chief suggests both sides may be committing war crimes in US-Israel conflict with Iran by Anne McElvoy, Politico (March 2026)

Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au.

Far from winding down, tit-for-tat threats on civilian energy infrastructure suggest the US-Israel war&nbsp;on Iran may enter a new spiral of violence.
On this episode of After America, Dr Emma Shortis and Angus Blackman discuss the war on Iran and how American sanctions are creating a humanitarian crisis in Cuba, before Professor James Laurenceson joins the show to talk about the impact of the conflict on China and the postponed Trump-Xi summit.
This episode was recorded on Friday 20 and Monday 23 March.
Guest: James Laurenceson, Professor and Director, Australia-China Relations Institute, University of Technology Sydney // <a href="https://x.com/j_laurenceson">@j-laurenceson</a>
Host: Emma Shortis, Director, International &amp; Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/emmashortis.bsky.social">@emmashortis</a>
Host: Angus Blackman, Executive Producer, Podcasts, the Australia Institute //&nbsp; <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/angusrb.bsky.social">@angusrb</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260320-shorter-america-this-week">Shorter America This Week: History sighs, repeats itself; Surprise: Trump doesn't need allies; A bloodthirsty White House</a> by Emma Shortis, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/260320-the-attacks-on-iran-hurt-us-all">The attacks on Iran hurt us all</a> by Allan Behm, The Point (March 2026)
<a href="https://www.axios.com/2026/03/14/israel-lebanon-ground-invasion-hezbollah">Israel planning massive ground invasion of Lebanon, officials say</a> by Barak Ravid, Axios (March 2026)
<a href="https://www.politico.eu/article/un-chief-guterres-reasonable-grounds-believe-war-crimes-happening-iran-war/">UN chief suggests both sides may be committing war crimes in US-Israel conflict with Iran</a> by Anne McElvoy, Politico (March 2026)
Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>.

Far from winding down, tit-for-tat threats on civilian energy infrastructure suggest the US-Israel war may enter a new spiral of violence.

Trump nixes Xi summit as Iran war escalates

Economic impact of US-Israel war on Iran

Interest rate hike

Bullock's recession comments

Are capital gains tax changes coming?

Australians are already paying a price for the illegal US-Israel war on Iran, so why did the Reserve Bank double down and raise rates again?

On this episode of Dollars & Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss the economic impact of the US and Israel’s war on Iran, the Reserve Bank’s decision to raise interest rates, and why changes to the capital gains tax discount might finally be on the way.

This discussion was recorded on Thursday 19 March 2026.

What we owe the water: It's time for a fossil fuel treaty by Kumi Naidoo, is available now for just $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.

You can also subscribe to the Vantage Point series to get four essays a year on some of the most pressing issues facing Australia and the world.

Host: Greg Jericho, Chief Economist, the Australia Institute // @grogsgamut

Host: Elinor Johnston-Leek, Senior Content Producer, the Australia Institute // @elinorjohnstonleek

Show notes:

Never waste a fuel crisis: the Albanese government must seize the moment and start taxing gas companiesby Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (March 2026)

New Analysis: Mid-East war’s hit to Australian economy, how to reduce its impact, the Australia Institute (March 2026)

Report on the Operation of the Capital Gains Tax Discount, Select Committee on the Operation of the Capital Gains Tax Discount, Parliament of Australia (March 2026)

Theme music: Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au.

Australians are already paying a price for the illegal US-Israel war on Iran, so why did the Reserve Bank double down and raise rates again?
On this episode of Dollars &amp; Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss the economic impact of the US and Israel&rsquo;s war on Iran, the Reserve Bank&rsquo;s decision to raise interest rates, and why changes to the capital gains tax discount might finally be on the way.
This discussion was recorded on Thursday 19 March 2026.
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/what-we-owe-the-water-vantage-point-issue-4">What we owe the water: It's time for a fossil fuel treaty by Kumi Naidoo</a>, is available now for just $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.
You can also <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">subscribe to the Vantage Point series</a> to get four essays a year on some of the most pressing issues facing Australia and the world.
Host:&nbsp;Greg Jericho, Chief Economist, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/grogsgamut.bsky.social">@grogsgamut</a>
Host:&nbsp;Elinor Johnston-Leek, Senior Content Producer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/elinorjohnstonleek.bsky.social">@elinorjohnstonleek</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/grogonomics/2026/mar/19/australian-government-gas-industry-iran-war-fuel-crisis">Never waste a fuel crisis: the Albanese government must seize the moment and start taxing gas companies</a> by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (March 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/new-analysis-mid-east-wars-hit-to-australian-economy-how-to-reduce-its-impact/">New Analysis: Mid-East war&rsquo;s hit to Australian economy, how to reduce its impact</a>, the Australia Institute (March 2026)
<a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Tabled_Documents/15584">Report on the Operation of the Capital Gains Tax Discount</a>, Select Committee on the Operation of the Capital Gains Tax Discount, Parliament of Australia (March 2026)
Theme music:&nbsp;Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>.

Australians are already paying a price for the illegal US-Israel war on Iran, so why did the Reserve Bank double down and raise rates again?

Double pain for Australians as interest rate and oil price hikes bite

Fossil fuel subsidies growing faster than the 

AND we give gas away for free

Impact on the climate

Fuel security & the war on Iran

Solutions

Now costing Australian governments $31,020 per minute, fossil fuel subsidies are growing faster than spending on the NDIS. 

On this episode of Follow the Money, Rod Campbell and Ebony Bennett discuss why it’s time to call out the idea that governments can’t afford to support Australians in need yet still dish out $16.3 billion on fossil fuel subsidies in 2025-26 alone.

This episode was recorded on Tuesday 17 March.

What we owe the water: It's time for a fossil fuel treaty by Kumi Naidoo is available now for just $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.

You can also subscribe to the Vantage Point series to get four essays a year on some of the most pressing issues facing Australia and the world.

Guest: Rod Campbell, Research Director, the Australia Institute // @rodcampbell

Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // @ebonybennett

Show notes:

Fossil fuel subsidies in Australia 2026 by Matt Grudnoff and Rod Campbell, the Australia Institute (March 2026)

Australia’s great gas giveaway, the Australia Institute (May 2024)

Joseph Stiglitz on super profits, capital gains and why corporate tax is good for democracy, Follow the Money (February 2026)

Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions

We’d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au.

Now costing Australian governments $31,020 per minute, fossil fuel subsidies are growing faster than spending on the NDIS. 
On this episode of Follow the Money, Rod Campbell and Ebony Bennett discuss why it&rsquo;s time to call out the idea that governments can&rsquo;t afford to support Australians in need yet still dish out $16.3 billion on fossil fuel subsidies in 2025-26 alone.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday 17 March.
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/what-we-owe-the-water-vantage-point-issue-4">What we owe the water: It's time for a fossil fuel treaty by Kumi Naidoo</a> is available now for just $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.
You can also <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">subscribe to the Vantage Point series</a> to get four essays a year on some of the most pressing issues facing Australia and the world.
Guest: Rod Campbell, Research Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/rodcampbell.bsky.social">@rodcampbell</a>
Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/ebonybennett.bsky.social">@ebonybennett</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/report/fossil-fuel-subsidies-in-australia-2026/">Fossil fuel subsidies in Australia 2026</a> by Matt Grudnoff and Rod Campbell, the Australia Institute (March 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/report/australias-great-gas-giveaway/">Australia&rsquo;s great gas giveaway</a>, the Australia Institute (May 2024)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/joseph-stiglitz-on-super-profits-capital-gains-and-why-corporate-tax-is-good-for-democracy/">Joseph Stiglitz on super profits, capital gains and why corporate tax is good for democracy</a>, Follow the Money (February 2026)
Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>.

Now costing Australian governments $31,020 per minute, fossil fuel subsidies are growing faster than spending on the NDIS.

Australia’s fossil fuel subsidies are out of control

Get all of the Australia Institute's podcasts in one feed.

Get all of the Australia Institute's podcasts in one feed.

Australia Matters

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