What are the new inflation figures?

How will the RBA respond?

Flow on effects still to come

Tradeable vs Non-Tradeable items...what does t

The big jump for the CPI has created some dramatic headlines, but digging just a bit deeper into the data reveals a different story. 

On this episode of Dollars & Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss the latest inflation figures, which are the first to include the impact of the war in Iran, and why the RBA should take a step back and look at all the data, before they meet to assess interest rates next week. 

This discussion was recorded on Thursday 30 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: 

Another RBA rate rise won’t fix inflation – it will just smash households already hit by soaring fuel costs, by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (April 2026) 

Rate hikes won’t fix inflation caused by fuel prices, by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (April 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 big jump for the CPI has created some dramatic headlines, but digging just a bit deeper into the data reveals a different story.&nbsp;
On this episode of&nbsp;Dollars &amp; Sense,&nbsp;Greg&nbsp;and Elinor&nbsp;discuss&nbsp;the latest inflation figures, which are the first to include the impact of the war in Iran, and why the RBA should take a step back and look at all the data, before they meet to assess interest rates next week.&nbsp;
This discussion was recorded on Thursday 30 April 2026.&nbsp;
Visit&nbsp;<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/">The Point</a>&nbsp;for&nbsp;research, analysis, explainers and factchecks&nbsp;from experts at the Australia Institute and beyond.&nbsp;
Host: Greg Jericho, Chief&nbsp;Economist, the Australia Institute&nbsp;//&nbsp;<a href="https://bsky.app/profile/grogsgamut.bsky.social">@grogsgamut</a>&nbsp;
Host: Elinor Johnston-Leek, Senior Content Producer, the Australia Institute&nbsp;//&nbsp;<a href="https://bsky.app/profile/elinorjohnstonleek.bsky.social">@elinorjohnstonleek</a>&nbsp;
Show notes:&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/business/grogonomics/2026/apr/30/inflation-rba-interest-rate-rise-reserve-bank-australia-abs">Another RBA rate rise won&rsquo;t fix inflation &ndash; it will just smash households already hit by soaring fuel costs</a>,&nbsp;by Greg Jericho,&nbsp;Guardian Australia&nbsp;(April&nbsp;2026)&nbsp;
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/explainers/260429-rate-hikes-wont-fix-inflation-caused-by-fuel-prices">Rate hikes&nbsp;won&rsquo;t&nbsp;fix inflation caused by fuel prices</a>, by Matt Grudnoff,&nbsp;The Point&nbsp;(April 2026)&nbsp;
Theme music: Blue Dot Sessions&nbsp;
We&rsquo;d&nbsp;love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions,&nbsp;comments&nbsp;or suggestions for future episodes to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>.&nbsp;Subscribe to Dollars &amp; Sense on <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/dollars-sense/id1717300562">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/5FWzwVKWUR2tZCbXSKuBE2?si=1c2f3558cc6d44ab">Spotify</a>, <a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/dollars-sense/9cc37d00-6a4f-013c-9f4c-0acc26574db2">Pocket Casts</a> or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.&nbsp;

The big jump for the CPI has created some dramatic headlines, but digging just a bit deeper into the data reveals a different story. 

Inflation soars, but it's not as bad as it seems

Taxing the 1%

Australia's gas exports

Australia's housing crisis

Politics of reform

How have a select few accumulated such colossal wealth while many Australians struggle?

On this episode of Follow the Money, Senator Larissa Waters, leader of the Australian Greens, joins Ebony Bennett to discuss the causes of Australia’s housing crisis, making gas exporters pay their fair share, and the Greens’ new ‘tax the 1%’ campaign.

The latest Vantage Point essay, Rich Kid Poor Kid: The Battle for Public Education by Jane Caro, is available now for $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.

Guest: Larissa Waters, Australian Greens leader and Senator for Queensland // @larissawaters

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)

Japanese Government collects more tax from Australian gas than Australian Government, the Australia Institute (April 2026)

Australia's Gas Giveaway, the Australia Institute

Santos records nearly $47bn in sales over a decade without paying corporate tax by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (April 2026)

Three ways Australia can tax wealth better by David Richardson and Richard Denniss, the Australia Institute (August 2025)

Inequality, Democracy, and Distributive Justice with Gabriel Zucman, Global Progressive Mobilization on YouTube (April 2026)

Oligarchy or Democracy with Wayne Swan,Global Progressive Mobilization on YouTube (April 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 Casts or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

How have a select few accumulated such colossal wealth while many Australians struggle?
On this episode of Follow the Money, Senator Larissa Waters, leader of the Australian Greens, joins Ebony Bennett to discuss the causes of Australia&rsquo;s housing crisis, making gas exporters pay their fair share, and the Greens&rsquo; new &lsquo;tax the 1%&rsquo; campaign.
The latest Vantage Point essay, <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/rich-kid-poor-kid-vantage-point-issue-5">Rich Kid Poor Kid: The Battle for Public Education by Jane Caro</a>, is available now for $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.
Guest: Larissa Waters, Australian Greens leader and Senator for Queensland // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/larissawaters.bsky.social">@larissawaters</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/japanese-government-collects-more-tax-from-australian-gas-than-australian-government/?utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=bluesky&amp;utm_term=CLI_Tax">Japanese Government collects more tax from Australian gas than Australian Government</a>, the Australia Institute (April 2026)
<a href="https://gas.australiainstitute.org.au/">Australia's Gas Giveaway</a>, the Australia Institute
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/explainers/260414-santos-records-nearly-47bn-in-sales-over-a-decade-without-paying-corporate-tax">Santos records nearly $47bn in sales over a decade without paying corporate tax</a> by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (April 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/report/three-ways-australia-can-tax-wealth-better/">Three ways Australia can tax wealth better</a> by David Richardson and Richard Denniss, the Australia Institute (August 2025)
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/bDDLpOWFg54?t=776s">Inequality, Democracy, and Distributive Justice with Gabriel Zucman</a>, Global Progressive Mobilization on YouTube (April 2026)
<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/YDvRD_YKY4c?si=JHmGjl3BfWPZPfiG">Oligarchy or Democracy with Wayne Swan</a>, Global Progressive Mobilization on YouTube (April 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>&nbsp;or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

How have a select few accumulated such colossal wealth while many Australians struggle?

Greens leader Larissa Waters on the housing crisis, gas exports & taxing the 1%

Correspondents' Dinner attack

CTRL+B America

Domestic opposition to Trump

Is the MAGA base splitting?

The midterms

US-Australia relationship

Violence is a feature of American democracy.

On this episode of After America, Dr Emma Shortis reflects on yet another appalling yet unsurprising act of political violence in the United States, before Mother Jones journalist James West joins the show to discuss the midterm elections and whether real fractures are emerging in the MAGAverse.

This episode was recorded on Thursday 23 April Australian time.

The latest Vantage Point essay, Rich Kid Poor Kid: The Battle for Public Education by Jane Caro, is available now for $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.

Guest: James West, Executive Editor, Mother Jones // @jamespwest

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

Show notes:

Shorter America: Madman theory, continued; Deeper derangement; International solidarity by Emma Shortis, The Point (April 2026)

No Kings Rallygoers in New York Share Their Biggest Fears—and Greatest Hopes by James West, Mother Jones (March 2026)

New poll: 55% support impeaching Trump, Strength in Numbers (April 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 After America on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Violence is a feature of American democracy.
On this episode of After America, Dr Emma Shortis reflects on yet another appalling yet unsurprising act of political violence in the United States, before Mother Jones journalist James West joins the show to discuss the midterm elections and whether real fractures are emerging in the MAGAverse.
This episode was recorded on Thursday 23 April Australian time.
The latest Vantage Point essay, <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/rich-kid-poor-kid-vantage-point-issue-5">Rich Kid Poor Kid: The Battle for Public Education by Jane Caro</a>, is available now for $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.
Guest: James West, Executive Editor, Mother Jones // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/jamespwest.bsky.social">@jamespwest</a>
Host: Emma Shortis, Director, International &amp; Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/emmashortis.bsky.social">@emmashortis</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260424-shorter-america-madman-theory-continued-deeper-derangement-international-solidarity">Shorter America: Madman theory, continued; Deeper derangement; International solidarity</a> by Emma Shortis, The Point (April 2026)
<a href="https://www.motherjones.com/politics/2026/03/no-kings-rally-nyc-hopes-fears-video/">No Kings Rallygoers in New York Share Their Biggest Fears&mdash;and Greatest Hopes</a> by James West, Mother Jones (March 2026)
<a href="https://www.gelliottmorris.com/p/2026-04-22-strength-in-numbers-verasight-impeachment-polling">New poll: 55% support impeaching Trump</a>, Strength in Numbers (April 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 After America on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/after-america/id1751661496">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/788c8nelszhzvsxwTzQzGS?si=32cb1a5509704ebb">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/after-america/49b88b40-1809-013d-5deb-0acc26574db2">Pocket Casts</a>&nbsp;or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Violence is a feature of American democracy.

Correspondents' dinner attacked, MAGA confronts midterms

Australia's great gas giveaway

Foreign aid spending plummets

Housing investor tax concessions

With the federal budget looming, a gas export tax would drive down prices and fund vital public services at a time when Australians are feeling the pinch.

On this episode of Dollars & Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss the case for a 25 per cent gas export tax, why global foreign aid spending has plummeted, and the likelihood of the government announcing reforms to housing investor tax concessions ahead of the May federal budget.

This discussion was recorded on Wednesday 22 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:

Capital gains tax changes are on the table, and yet Armageddon has not arrived. Has the tide on housing turned at last?by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (April 2026)

Richard Denniss and Konrad Benjamin (aka Punters Politics) at the Senate Select Committee on taxing gas, The Australia Institute on YouTube (April 2026)

Taxing gas in Australia and Japan by Richard Denniss, Rod Campbell & Matt Saunders, the Australia Institute (April 2026)

International aid enters historic decline with Australia among lowest contributors by Tegan George, The Point (April 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.

With the federal budget looming, a gas export tax would drive down prices and fund vital public services at a time when Australians are feeling the pinch.
On this episode of Dollars &amp; Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss the case for a 25 per cent gas export tax, why global foreign aid spending has plummeted, and the likelihood of the government announcing reforms to housing investor tax concessions ahead of the May federal budget.
This discussion was recorded on Wednesday 22 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/23/cgt-capital-gains-tax-negative-gearing-changes-housing-labor-budget-2026">Capital gains tax changes are on the table, and yet Armageddon has not arrived. Has the tide on housing turned at last?</a> by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (April 2026)
<a href="https://youtu.be/VDebVmoB2V4">Richard Denniss and Konrad Benjamin (aka Punters Politics) at the Senate Select Committee on taxing gas</a>, The Australia Institute on YouTube (April 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/report/taxing-gas-in-australia-and-japan/">Taxing gas in Australia and Japan</a> by Richard Denniss, Rod Campbell &amp; Matt Saunders, the Australia Institute (April 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260415-international-aid-enters-historic-decline-with-australia-among-lowest-contributors">International aid enters historic decline with Australia among lowest contributors</a> by Tegan George, The Point (April 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.

With the federal budget looming, a gas export tax would drive down prices and fund vital public services at a time when Australians are feeling the pinch.

Ending Australia's great gas giveaway

Taxing gas properly

Gas tax inquiry

The federal budget

Australia is one of the largest exporters of gas in the world, yet beer drinkers pay more tax than the gas industry pays in Petroleum Resources Rent Tax.

On this episode of Follow the Money, Senator David Pocock and Dr Richard Denniss join Leanne Minshull to discuss the case for a 25 per cent gas export tax, why Australians currently get so little in return for the country’s finite resources, and how the gas industry wields power in parliament.

This episode was recorded live at the Australia Institute’s Politics in the Pub event on Wednesday 15 April. Subscribe now to find out about more live events from the Australia Institute.

Guest: David Pocock, Independent Senator for the Australia Capital Territory // @davidpocock

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

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

Host: Glenn Connley, Senior Media Advisor, the Australia Institute // @glennconnley

Show notes:

Australia's Gas Giveaway, the Australia Institute

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

Beer, HECS and visas: things that raise more revenue than the Petroleum Rent Resource Tax (PRRT) by Matt Grudnoff, The Point,

Senate inquiry into taxing gas exports begins as experts call system 'broken' by Tegan George, The Point (April 2026)

Japanese Government collects more tax from Australian gas than Australian Government, the Australia Institute (April 2026)

One Nation and Greens voters strongly support 25% Gas Export Tax: poll, the Australia Institute (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 Casts or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Australia is one of the largest exporters of gas in the world, yet beer drinkers pay more tax than the gas industry pays in Petroleum Resources Rent Tax.
On this episode of Follow the Money, Senator David Pocock and Dr Richard Denniss join Leanne Minshull to discuss the case for a 25 per cent gas export tax, why Australians currently get so little in return for the country&rsquo;s finite resources, and how the gas industry wields power in parliament.
This episode was recorded live at the Australia Institute&rsquo;s Politics in the Pub event on Wednesday 15 April. <a href="https://nb.australiainstitute.org.au/subscribe">Subscribe now</a> to find out about more live events from the Australia Institute.
Guest: David Pocock, Independent Senator for the Australia Capital Territory // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/davidpocock.bsky.social">@davidpocock</a>
Guest: Richard Denniss, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/richarddenniss.bsky.social">@richarddenniss</a>
Host: Leanne Minshull, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/leanneminshull.bsky.social">@leanneminshull</a>
Host: Glenn Connley, Senior Media Advisor, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/glennconnley.bsky.social">@glennconnley</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://gas.australiainstitute.org.au/">Australia's Gas Giveaway</a>, the Australia Institute
<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://thepoint.com.au/off-the-charts/260415-beer-hecs-and-visas-things-that-raise-more-revenue-than-the-petroleum-rent-resource-tax-prrt">Beer, HECS and visas: things that raise more revenue than the Petroleum Rent Resource Tax (PRRT)</a> by Matt Grudnoff, The Point,
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260421-senate-inquiry-into-taxing-gas-exports-begins-as-experts-call-system-broken">Senate inquiry into taxing gas exports begins as experts call system 'broken'</a> by Tegan George, The Point (April 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/japanese-government-collects-more-tax-from-australian-gas-than-australian-government/?utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=bluesky&amp;utm_term=CLI_Tax">Japanese Government collects more tax from Australian gas than Australian Government</a>, the Australia Institute (April 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/one-nation-and-greens-voters-strongly-support-25-gas-export-tax-poll/">One Nation and Greens voters strongly support 25% Gas Export Tax: poll</a>, the Australia Institute (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>&nbsp;or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Australia is one of the largest exporters of gas in the world, yet beer drinkers pay more tax than the gas industry pays in Petroleum Resources Rent Tax.

David Pocock on getting a fair return for Australian gas

Trump's Iran diplomacy

Nuclear weapons & Trump's threats

Role of US allies

Rebuilding nuclear guardrails

After tearing up the Iran nuclear deal negotiated under President Obama, Trump is trying to bomb his way to a better outcome and it’s failing spectacularly.

On this episode of After America, nuclear policy expert Jon B Wolfsthal and Dr Emma Shortis discuss the US-Iran negotiations, the risks of this conflict metastasising, and how Trump is continuing to break down the guardrails around the use of nuclear weapons.

This episode was recorded on Friday 17 April.

The latest Vantage Point essay, Rich Kid Poor Kid: The Battle for Public Education by Jane Caro, is available now for $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.

Guest: Jon B Wolfsthal, US Nuclear Policy Fellow, PAX sapiens // @jonatomic

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

Show notes:

Shorter America: The consequences of not caring; The enemy of your enemy is not your friend; Visions for the future by Emma Shortis, The Point (April 2026)

What Is the Iran Nuclear Deal?, Council on Foreign Relations

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 After America on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

After tearing up the Iran nuclear deal negotiated under President Obama, Trump is trying to bomb his way to a better outcome and it&rsquo;s failing spectacularly.
On this episode of After America, nuclear policy expert Jon B Wolfsthal and Dr Emma Shortis discuss the US-Iran negotiations, the risks of this conflict metastasising, and how Trump is continuing to break down the guardrails around the use of nuclear weapons.
This episode was recorded on Friday 17 April.
The latest Vantage Point essay, <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/rich-kid-poor-kid-vantage-point-issue-5">Rich Kid Poor Kid: The Battle for Public Education by Jane Caro</a>, is available now for $19.95. Use the code 'PODVP' at checkout to get free shipping.
Guest: Jon B Wolfsthal, US Nuclear Policy Fellow, PAX sapiens // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/jonatomic.bsky.social">@jonatomic</a>
Host: Emma Shortis, Director, International &amp; Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/emmashortis.bsky.social">@emmashortis</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260417-shorter-america-this-week">Shorter America: The consequences of not caring; The enemy of your enemy is not your friend; Visions for the future</a> by Emma Shortis, The Point (April 2026)
<a href="https://www.cfr.org/backgrounders/what-iran-nuclear-deal">What Is the Iran Nuclear Deal?</a>, Council on Foreign Relations
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 After America on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/after-america/id1751661496" data-outlook-id="56caebd9-3d7c-4465-b6da-8d4a34e4a7b9">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/788c8nelszhzvsxwTzQzGS?si=32cb1a5509704ebb" data-outlook-id="7340cefc-66cf-49e3-8c86-5bcb5663976c">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/after-america/49b88b40-1809-013d-5deb-0acc26574db2" data-outlook-id="296005f0-ac66-40bb-b94c-e7b87c7503b1">Pocket Casts</a>&nbsp;or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

After tearing up the Iran nuclear deal negotiated under President Obama, Trump is trying to bomb his way to a better outcome and it’s failing spectacularly.

Trump is fighting for a worse deal with Iran

IMF World Economic Outlook

Global policy responses

Liberal Party migration policy

Immigration isn't causing the housing crisis

It reads like a dystopian sci-fi novel, but the latest IMF report on the global economy refuses to name the orange elephant in the room.

On this episode of Dollars & Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss the International Monetary Fund (IMF)’s latest World Economic Outlook report, its forecast for Australia, Angus Taylor’s Trumpy immigration policy announcement, and why immigration isn’t causing the housing crisis.

This discussion was recorded on Thursday 16 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:

The IMF refuses to name the cause of this global chaos. It starts with ‘Donald’ and ends in ‘Trump’by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (April 2026)

World Economic Outlook: Global Economy in the Shadow of War, International Monetary Fund (April 2026)

Corporate profits increase inflation | Fact Sheet, the Australia Institute (November 2024)

Taylor has only ‘vibes and fumes’, no answers on migration by Amy Remeikis, The New Daily (April 2026)

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.

It reads like a dystopian sci-fi novel, but the latest IMF report on the global economy refuses to name the orange elephant in the room.
On this episode of Dollars &amp; Sense, Greg and Elinor discuss the International Monetary Fund (IMF)&rsquo;s latest World Economic Outlook report, its forecast for Australia, Angus Taylor&rsquo;s Trumpy immigration policy announcement, and why immigration isn&rsquo;t causing the housing crisis.
This discussion was recorded on Thursday 16 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/15/imf-world-economic-outlook-chaos-donald-trump">The IMF refuses to name the cause of this global chaos. It starts with &lsquo;Donald&rsquo; and ends in &lsquo;Trump&rsquo;</a> by Greg Jericho, Guardian Australia (April 2026)
<a href="https://www.imf.org/en/publications/weo/issues/2026/04/14/world-economic-outlook-april-2026">World Economic Outlook: Global Economy in the Shadow of War</a>, International Monetary Fund (April 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/corporate-profits-increase-inflation-fact-sheet/">Corporate profits increase inflation | Fact Sheet</a>, the Australia Institute (November 2024)
<a href="https://www.thenewdaily.com.au/news/politics/australian-politics/2026/04/14/coalition-angus-taylor-migration">Taylor has only &lsquo;vibes and fumes&rsquo;, no answers on migration</a> by Amy Remeikis, The New Daily (April 2026)
<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.

It reads like a dystopian sci-fi novel, but the latest IMF report on the global economy refuses to name the orange elephant in the room.

Trump chaos driving bleak economic outlook

US-Iran update

Lebanon, Europe & the Strait of Hormuz

Opposition within the United States

Implications for Australia

With President Trump spewing threats at friends and foes, the American government has gone off the rails.

On this episode of Follow the Money, Dr Emma Shortis and Ebony Bennett discuss Trump’s genocidal threats against Iran, his efforts to subvert US democracy, his administration’s growing isolation from long-time allies, and why it’s time for the Australian government to reassess its relationship with the United States.

This episode was recorded on Monday 13 April.

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

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

Show notes:

After America: Australia and the new world order by Emma Shortis, Australia Institute Press (May 2025)

Vance joyless as US-Iran negotiations fall apart, After America, the Australia Institute (April 2026)

Shorter America This Week: Ceasefire?; Madman theory; Group hugs in space by Emma Shortis, The Point (April 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.

With President Trump spewing threats at friends and foes, the American government has gone off the rails.
On this episode of Follow the Money, Dr Emma Shortis and Ebony Bennett discuss Trump&rsquo;s genocidal threats against Iran, his efforts to subvert US democracy, his administration&rsquo;s growing isolation from long-time allies, and why it&rsquo;s time for the Australian government to reassess its relationship with the United States.
This episode was recorded on Monday 13 April.
Guest: Emma Shortis, Director, International &amp; Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/emmashortis.bsky.social">@emmashortis</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/store/after-america-vantage-point-issue-1">After America: Australia and the new world order</a> by Emma Shortis, Australia Institute Press (May 2025)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/vance-joyless-as-us-iran-negotiations-fall-apart/">Vance joyless as US-Iran negotiations fall apart</a>, After America, the Australia Institute (April 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260410-shorter-america-this-week">Shorter America This Week: Ceasefire?; Madman theory; Group hugs in space</a> by Emma Shortis, The Point (April 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>.

With President Trump spewing threats at friends and foes, the American government has gone off the rails.

US allies reassess as Trump undermines global security

Iran war update

Role of the Israeli government

The NATO alliance

Australia's response

The Trump administration’s failure to reach an agreement with Iran to end the war shouldn’t come as a surprise.

On this episode of After America, Allan Behm and Dr Emma Shortis discuss the consequences of failure in US-Iran negotiations, the oxymoron of Trump administration “diplomacy”, the future of NATO, and what this all means for Australia.

This episode was recorded on Friday 10 April.

Guest: Allan Behm, Advisor, International & Security Affairs, the Australia Institute

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

Show notes:

Shorter America This Week: Ceasefire?; Madman theory; Group hugs in space by Emma Shortis, The Point (April 2026)

LIAR, LIAR, CEASE ON FIRE! PEP with Chas & Dr Emma Shortis, Planet PEP on YouTube (April 2026)

The Wrap: A missed opportunity to face reality by Emma Shortis, The Point (April 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 After America on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Pocket Casts or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

The Trump administration&rsquo;s failure to reach an agreement with Iran to end the war shouldn&rsquo;t come as a surprise.
On this episode of After America, Allan Behm and Dr Emma Shortis discuss the consequences of failure in US-Iran negotiations, the oxymoron of Trump administration &ldquo;diplomacy&rdquo;, the future of NATO, and what this all means for Australia.
This episode was recorded on Friday 10 April.
Guest: Allan Behm, Advisor, International &amp; Security Affairs, the Australia Institute
Host: Emma Shortis, Director, International &amp; Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/emmashortis.bsky.social">@emmashortis</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/260410-shorter-america-this-week">Shorter America This Week: Ceasefire?; Madman theory; Group hugs in space</a> by Emma Shortis, The Point (April 2026)
<a href="https://youtu.be/YP97mHinAi8?si=YsmRF2vkKG8YvidZ">LIAR, LIAR, CEASE ON FIRE! PEP with Chas &amp; Dr Emma Shortis</a>, Planet PEP on YouTube (April 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/news/250402-the-wrap-a-missed-opportunity-to-face-reality">The Wrap: A missed opportunity to face reality</a> by Emma Shortis, The Point (April 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 After America on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/after-america/id1751661496" data-outlook-id="56caebd9-3d7c-4465-b6da-8d4a34e4a7b9">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/788c8nelszhzvsxwTzQzGS?si=32cb1a5509704ebb" data-outlook-id="7340cefc-66cf-49e3-8c86-5bcb5663976c">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/after-america/49b88b40-1809-013d-5deb-0acc26574db2" data-outlook-id="296005f0-ac66-40bb-b94c-e7b87c7503b1">Pocket Casts</a>&nbsp;or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

The Trump administration’s failure to reach an agreement with Iran to end the war shouldn’t come as a surprise.

Vance joyless as US-Iran negotiations fall apart

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?

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

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

Australia Matters

Social links:

Follow the podcast:

644 clip(s)