AUKUS inquiry findings

Will AUKUS keep Australia safe?

Culture of Australian defence policy-making

US reliability

Royal Commission petition & final thoughts

The AUKUS submarine deal should be scrapped and the subject of a Royal Commission, according to the commissioners of the AUKUS Public Inquiry.

On this episode of Follow the Money, former Chief of the Australian Defence Force, Admiral Chris Barrie AO RAN (retd), and Australia Institute co-CEO, Leanne Minshull, join Ebony Bennett to discuss the findings of the recent independent public inquiry into the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine deal.

This episode was recorded on Tuesday 10 November.

Sign the petition calling for a Royal Commission into AUKUS on the Australia Institute website.

Guest: Chris Barrie, former Chief of the Australian Defence Force

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

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

Show notes:

Surrendering Australia: the AUKUS deception, Public Inquiry into AUKUS Commissioners’ Report, Australian Peace and Security Forum (November 2026)

Public Inquiry into AUKUS recommends recalibrating Australia’s relationship with the US, the Australia Institute (November 2026)

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

Scrapping AUKUS deal would threaten national security by Linda Reynolds, The Australian (November 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.

The AUKUS submarine deal should be scrapped and the subject of a Royal Commission, according to the commissioners of the AUKUS Public Inquiry.
On this episode of Follow the Money, former Chief of the Australian Defence Force, Admiral Chris Barrie AO RAN (retd), and Australia Institute co-CEO, Leanne Minshull, join Ebony Bennett to discuss the findings of the recent independent public inquiry into the AUKUS nuclear-powered submarine deal.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday 10 November.
Sign the petition calling for <a href="https://nb.australiainstitute.org.au/aukus_royal_commission">a Royal Commission into AUKUS</a> on the Australia Institute website.
Guest: Chris Barrie, former Chief of the Australian Defence Force
Guest: Leanne Minshull, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // <a href="http://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://aukuspublicinquiry.com/">Surrendering Australia: the AUKUS deception</a>, Public Inquiry into AUKUS Commissioners&rsquo; Report, Australian Peace and Security Forum (November 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/public-inquiry-into-aukus-recommends-recalibrating-australias-relationship-with-the-us/">Public Inquiry into AUKUS recommends recalibrating Australia&rsquo;s relationship with the US</a>, the Australia Institute (November 2026)
<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://www.theaustralian.com.au/commentary/scrapping-aukus-deal-would-threaten-national-security/news-story/658a4a75b773b5786bd4b0c48cfd245b">Scrapping AUKUS deal would threaten national security</a> by Linda Reynolds, The Australian (November 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.

The AUKUS submarine deal should be scrapped and the subject of a Royal Commission, according to the commissioners of the AUKUS Public Inquiry.

AUKUS the “worst, most costly and riskiest” Australian defence decision ever

Even the greatest dynasties come to an end.

On this episode, Greg announces the end of the Dollars & Sense series and thanks all who came along for the journey.

This episode was recorded on Friday 6 November 2026.

Read more on The Point.

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

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

Show notes:

Follow the Money: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or the Australia Institute website

After America: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or the Australia Institute website

What’s the Point? with Richard Denniss: YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or the Australia Institute website

Theme music: Blue Dot Sessions

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

Even the greatest dynasties come to an end.
On this episode, Greg announces the end of the Dollars &amp; Sense series and thanks all who came along for the journey.
This episode was recorded on Friday 6 November 2026.
Read more on <a href="https://thepoint.com.au/">The Point</a>.
Host:&nbsp;Greg Jericho, Chief Economist, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/grogsgamut.bsky.social">@grogsgamut</a>
Host:&nbsp;Angus Blackman, Executive Producer, Podcasts, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/angusrb.bsky.social">@AngusRB</a>
Show notes:
Follow the Money: <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgXQ0oSpA60wfLEVfROCVWsDsYplcboe8&amp;si=9bwPJYx-Xomonva_">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/follow-the-money/id1078781512">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0JOrvYNuhHOwaFuZ7PlW1d?si=4998371b55114995">Spotify</a> or <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/news/category/podcasts/follow-the-money/">the Australia Institute website</a>
After America: <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgXQ0oSpA60xD_-NtkZsLk8PV3AMXZEN8&amp;si=Lz8DCWv34JRZ7Hyt">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/after-america/id1751661496">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/788c8nelszhzvsxwTzQzGS?si=01c84962b72c423d">Spotify</a> or <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/news/category/podcasts/after-america/">the Australia Institute website</a>
What&rsquo;s the Point? with Richard Denniss: <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLLdvC6g2Q4iA&amp;si=cEeccJ4I4-hEUlbJ">YouTube</a>, <a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-the-point-with-richard-denniss/id1896871574">Apple Podcasts</a>, <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/033rDEIEiJCMwPEwADjpfb?si=5f443a497d014fad">Spotify</a> or <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/news/category/podcasts/whats-the-point/">the Australia Institute website</a> 
Theme music:&nbsp;Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on our podcasts, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>.

Greg announces the end of the Dollars & Sense series and thanks all who came along for the journey.

All good things...

On this episode of What’s the Point?, Richard Denniss explains why government spending isn’t to blame for higher inflation in Australia right now and why arguments about whether the government spends too much or too little are simplistic; how the money is spent matters.

This episode was recorded on Friday 6 November.

Read more on The Point.

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

Host: Anna Chang, Managing Editor, The Point // @annachang

Show notes:

More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, Australia Institute Press (August 2026)

Rate rises won’t bring down oil prices or stop the data centre boom by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (October 2026)

Brutal interest rate hike won’t address main causes of inflation, Follow the Money, the Australia Institute (November 2026)

Six ways to save the Commonwealth billions, fairly and efficiently by Matt Grudnoff and Greg Jericho, The Point (November 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 What’s the Point? with Richard Denniss on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

On this episode of What&rsquo;s the Point?, Richard Denniss explains why government spending isn&rsquo;t to blame for higher inflation in Australia right now and why arguments about whether the government spends too much or too little are simplistic; how the money is spent matters.
This episode was recorded on Friday 6 November.
Read more on <a href="https://thepoint.com.au">The Point</a>.
Host:&nbsp;Richard Denniss, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/richarddenniss.bsky.social">@richarddenniss</a>
Host:&nbsp;Anna Chang, Managing Editor, The Point // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/annachang.bsky.social">@annachang</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/more-fool-me-vantage-point-issue-6">More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia</a> by Richard Denniss, Australia Institute Press (August 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/off-the-charts/261028-rate-rises-wont-bring-down-oil-prices-or-stop-the-data-centre-boom">Rate rises won&rsquo;t bring down oil prices or stop the data centre boom</a> by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (October 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/brutal-interest-rate-hike-wont-address-main-causes-of-inflation/">Brutal interest rate hike won&rsquo;t address main causes of inflation</a>, Follow the Money, the Australia Institute (November 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/261106-six-ways-to-save-the-commonwealth-billions-fairly-and-efficiently">Six ways to save the Commonwealth billions, fairly and efficiently</a> by Matt Grudnoff and Greg Jericho, The Point (November 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;What&rsquo;s the Point? with Richard Denniss&nbsp;on <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgXQ0oSpA60zbnbOH5xNLdinbxKeW2JqH&amp;si=fKjXy59qM9uUQ77q">YouTube</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-the-point-with-richard-denniss/id1896871574">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/033rDEIEiJCMwPEwADjpfb">Spotify</a> or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

What’s the point of government spending? 

On this bonus mini-episode of After America, Dr Emma Shortis reflects on the Democrats’ historic midterms success, what now for the Trump administration, and what it might mean for the Australia-US relationship.

This episode was recorded on Friday 6 November.

Join Emma and Don Watson at our first-ever After America live show on Tuesday 1 December at the Celtic Club in Melbourne.

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: Looks like woke’s back on the menu; Choosin’ Texas; Global implications by Emma Shortis, The Point (October 2026)

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

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

On this bonus mini-episode of After America, Dr Emma Shortis reflects on the Democrats&rsquo; historic midterms success, what now for the Trump administration, and what it might mean for the Australia-US relationship.
This episode was recorded on Friday 6 November.
Join Emma and Don Watson at <a href="https://luma.com/celtic-h0ek?lm_source=embed">our first-ever After America live show</a> on Tuesday 1 December at the Celtic Club in Melbourne.
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 &ndash; Podcasts, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/angusrb.bsky.social">@AngusRB</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/new/261106-shorter-america-this-week">Shorter America: Looks like woke&rsquo;s back on the menu; Choosin&rsquo; Texas; Global implications</a> by Emma Shortis, The Point (October 2026)
<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)
Theme music: 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.

Dr Emma Shortis reflects on the Democrats’ historic midterms success, what now for the Trump administration, and what it might mean for the Australia-US relationship.

The midterms. Woah.

Interest rate decision

The role of government policy

Price gouging & corporate profits

Insulating low-income Australians

Revenue & the two-speed economy

Key messages

The Reserve Bank’s fifth interest rate hike of 2026 will hurt Australian mortgage holders as big corporates profit.

On this episode of Follow the Money, Matt Grudnoff joins Ebony Bennett to discuss what’s really driving inflation, who’s benefitting in this economy, how the government can support the Australians who need it most.

This episode was recorded on Wednesday 4 November.

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

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

Show notes:

Big four banks cash in on borrowers’ misery as rates rise again, the Australia Institute (November 2026)

Profit-price spiral: the truth behind Australia’s inflation by Jim Stanford, the Australia Institute (February 2023)

Woodside records mega war profits while Australians pay through the nose, the Australia Institute (October 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.

The Reserve Bank&rsquo;s fifth interest rate hike of 2026 will hurt Australian mortgage holders as big corporates profit.
On this episode of Follow the Money, Matt Grudnoff joins Ebony Bennett to discuss what&rsquo;s really driving inflation, who&rsquo;s benefitting in this economy, how the government can support the Australians who need it most.
This episode was recorded on Wednesday 4 November.
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://australiainstitute.org.au/post/big-four-banks-cash-in-on-borrowers-misery-as-rates-rise-again/">Big four banks cash in on borrowers&rsquo; misery as rates rise again</a>, the Australia Institute (November 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/report/profit-price-spiral-the-truth-behind-australias-inflation/">Profit-price spiral: the truth behind Australia&rsquo;s inflation</a> by Jim Stanford, the Australia Institute (February 2023)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/woodside-records-mega-war-profits-while-australians-pay-through-the-nose/">Woodside records mega war profits while Australians pay through the nose</a>, the Australia Institute (October 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.

The Reserve Bank’s fifth interest rate hike of 2026 will hurt Australian mortgage holders as big corporates profit.

Brutal interest rate hike won't address main causes of inflation

Israeli elections

Implications for Palestine, war on Iran

US midterms

The midterms are finally upon us. On Tuesday US time, Americans will vote in a new Congress – and deliver a verdict on two years of the second Trump administration.

On this episode of After America, If You’re Listening host Matt Bevan joins Dr Emma Shortis to preview the midterms and examine the election results in Israel. In both countries, these could be the most important elections in generations – so what will the fallout be?

This episode was recorded on Friday 30 October.

Join Emma and Don Watson at our first-ever After America live show on Tuesday 1 December at the Celtic Club in Melbourne.

Guest: Matt Bevan, host of If You’re Listening, Australian Broadcasting Corporation // @mattbevan

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

Show notes:

If You’re Listening Live Midterms Broadcast, 3pm AEDT (Melbourne Cup +24-ish), Wednesday 4 November

Shorter America: Races to watch; The Trump effect; Global implications by Emma Shortis, The Point (October 2026)

Israel’s October 7 inquiry hinges on this election, If You're Listening on YouTube (October 2026)

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

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

The midterms are finally upon us. On Tuesday US time, Americans will vote in a new Congress &ndash; and deliver a verdict on two years of the second Trump administration.
On this episode of After America, If You&rsquo;re Listening host Matt Bevan joins Dr Emma Shortis to preview the midterms and examine the election results in Israel. In both countries, these could be the most important elections in generations &ndash; so what will the fallout be?
This episode was recorded on Friday 30 October.
Join Emma and Don Watson at <a href="https://luma.com/celtic-h0ek?lm_source=embed">our first-ever After America live show</a> on Tuesday 1 December at the Celtic Club in Melbourne.
Guest: Matt Bevan, host of If You&rsquo;re Listening, Australian Broadcasting Corporation // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/mattbevan.bsky.social">@mattbevan</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://www.youtube.com/@IfYoureListeningABC/streams">If You&rsquo;re Listening Live Midterms Broadcast</a>, 3pm AEDT (Melbourne Cup +24-ish), Wednesday 4 November
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/new/261030-shorter-america-this-week">Shorter America: Races to watch; The Trump effect; Global implications</a> by Emma Shortis, The Point (October 2026)
<a href="https://youtu.be/tzvIHNq1tT8?si=bMnTNei5jbXq7Rqi">Israel&rsquo;s October 7 inquiry hinges on this election</a>, If You're Listening on YouTube (October 2026)
<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)
Theme music: 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.

The midterms are finally upon us. On Tuesday US time, Americans will vote in a new Congress – and deliver a verdict on two years of the second Trump administration.

Trumpism on the ballot in US midterms as Netanyahu fights to remain Israeli leader

On this episode of What’s the Point?, Richard Denniss explains why the artificial intelligence (AI) industry is banking on mass unemployment, the impact of AI on superannuation, and what happens if the AI bubble bursts.

This episode was recorded on Friday 30 October.

Read more on The Point.

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

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

Show notes:

More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, Australia Institute Press (August 2026)

'Not an unintended consequence': Mass unemployment is the AI business model by Tegan George, The Point (October 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 What’s the Point? with Richard Denniss on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

On this episode of What&rsquo;s the Point?, Richard Denniss explains why the artificial intelligence (AI) industry is banking on mass unemployment, the impact of AI on superannuation, and what happens if the AI bubble bursts.
This episode was recorded on Friday 30 October.
Read more on <a href="https://thepoint.com.au">The Point</a>.
Host:&nbsp;Richard Denniss, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/richarddenniss.bsky.social">@richarddenniss</a>
Host:&nbsp;Glenn Connley, Senior Media Advisor, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/glennconnley.bsky.social">@glennconnley</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/more-fool-me-vantage-point-issue-6">More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia</a> by Richard Denniss, Australia Institute Press (August 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/new/261022-not-an-unintended-consequence-mass-unemployment-is-the-ai-business-model">'Not an unintended consequence': Mass unemployment is the AI business model</a> by Tegan George, The Point (October 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;What&rsquo;s the Point? with Richard Denniss&nbsp;on <a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgXQ0oSpA60zbnbOH5xNLdinbxKeW2JqH&amp;si=fKjXy59qM9uUQ77q">YouTube</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-the-point-with-richard-denniss/id1896871574">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/033rDEIEiJCMwPEwADjpfb">Spotify</a> or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

What’s the point of allowing AI to ruin superannuation? 

US politics & the midterms

Key races

Election integrity

State of democracy globally

Implications for Australia

The Trump administration and US democracy itself face a big test at the midterm elections.

On this episode of Follow the Money, Dr Emma Shortis joins Ebony Bennett to discuss US politics ahead of the midterms and the state of democracy globally.

This episode was recorded on Tuesday 27 October.

1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service. Call 1800 737 732, text 0458 737 732, chat online or video call via their website.

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

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

Show notes:

Shorter America: Michigan Matters; Looking to Europe; Political Violence by Emma Shortis (October 2026)

Trump still the elephant in Canberra as US midterms approach, After America, the Australia Institute (October 2026)

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

The Trump administration and US democracy itself face a big test at the midterm elections.
On this episode of Follow the Money, Dr Emma Shortis joins Ebony Bennett to discuss US politics ahead of the midterms and the state of democracy globally.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday 27 October.
1800RESPECT is the national domestic, family and sexual violence counselling, information and support service.&nbsp;Call&nbsp;<a href="tel:1800737732">1800 737 732,</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://1800respect.org.au/help-and-support/telephone-and-online-counselling#faq-2707">text 0458 737 732</a>, chat online or video call via <a href="https://1800respect.org.au/">their website</a>.
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://thepoint.com.au/new/261023-shorter-america-this-week">Shorter America: Michigan Matters; Looking to Europe; Political Violence</a> by Emma Shortis (October 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/trump-still-the-elephant-in-canberra-as-us-midterms-approach/">Trump still the elephant in Canberra as US midterms approach</a>, After America, the Australia Institute (October 2026)
<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)
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.

The Trump administration and US democracy itself face a big test at the midterm elections.

Is a ‘blue wave’ coming at the US midterms?

'Euro-Indo-Pacific-Atlantic' security

Trump administration's role in creating insecu

The US midterms

Israeli election

Elephant?! What elephant?

On this episode of After America, Allan Behm and Dr Emma Shortis discuss key races in the midterms, the upcoming Israeli election, and the latest from the Canberra bubble on Euro-Indo-Atlanto-Pacific strategic interests.

This episode was recorded on Monday 26 October.

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

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

Show notes:

Shorter America: Michigan Matters; Looking to Europe; Political Violence by Emma Shortis, The Point (October 2026)

Faith and nostalgia: dangerous strategic partners by Allan Behm, The Point (October 2026)

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

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

Elephant?! What elephant?
On this episode of After America, Allan Behm and Dr Emma Shortis discuss key races in the midterms, the upcoming Israeli election, and the latest from the Canberra bubble on Euro-Indo-Atlanto-Pacific strategic interests.
This episode was recorded on Monday 26 October.
Guest: Allan Behm, Special Advisor in 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/new/261023-shorter-america-this-week">Shorter America: Michigan Matters; Looking to Europe; Political Violence</a> by Emma Shortis, The Point (October 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/261017-faith-and-nostalgia-dangerous-strategic-partners">Faith and nostalgia: dangerous strategic partners</a> by Allan Behm, The Point (October 2026)
<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)
Theme music: 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.

Allan Behm and Dr Emma Shortis discuss key races in the midterms, the upcoming Israeli election, and the latest from the Canberra bubble on Euro-Indo-Atlanto-Pacific strategic interests.

Trump still the elephant in Canberra as US midterms approach

Senate Estimates is a government and department accountability mechanism. It’s a process where Senators get to look under the hood of Federal Departments and ask, among other things, how is taxpayer money being spent? In this episode of What’s the Point?, Richard Denniss explores why Estimates matter for democracy, and ways it can be improved.

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

Order More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia, Richard Denniss’ Vantage Point essay from Australia Institute Press.

Show notes:

Aussies pay more tax on beer than international gas companies pay on tens and billions of dollars worth of our offshore gas they export | David Pocock, via Facebook
David Pocock is right: more tax is raised from beer than from petroleum resource rent tax (PRRT) | The Point

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 topodcasts@australiainstitute.org.au. Subscribe to What’s the Point? with Richard Denniss on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Senate Estimates is a government and department accountability mechanism. It&rsquo;s a process where Senators get to look under the hood of Federal Departments and ask, among other things, how is taxpayer money being spent? In this episode of What&rsquo;s the Point?, Richard Denniss explores why Estimates matter for democracy, and ways it can be improved.
Host:&nbsp;Richard Denniss, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute //<a href="https://bsky.app/profile/richarddenniss.bsky.social">@richarddenniss</a>
Order&nbsp;<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/more-fool-me-vantage-point-issue-6">More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia</a>, Richard Denniss&rsquo; Vantage Point essay from Australia Institute Press.
Show notes:
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/reel/2068193550713397">Aussies pay more tax on beer than international gas companies pay on tens and billions of dollars worth of our offshore gas they export | David Pocock, via Facebook</a><a href="https://thepoint.com.au/factchecks/260217-david-pocock-is-right-more-tax-comes-from-beer-than-from-petroleum-tax"> David Pocock is right: more tax is raised from beer than from petroleum resource rent tax (PRRT) | The Point</a>
Theme music: Blue Dot Sessions&nbsp;
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;What&rsquo;s the Point? with Richard Denniss&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLgXQ0oSpA60zbnbOH5xNLdinbxKeW2JqH&amp;si=fKjXy59qM9uUQ77q">YouTube</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/whats-the-point-with-richard-denniss/id1896871574">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/033rDEIEiJCMwPEwADjpfb">Spotify</a>&nbsp;or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

What's the point of Senate Estimates?

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

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