This week on Backchat we’re chatting all things country music. Have you suddenly got friends who are sending you country songs? Seeing it around social media? We dive into why country music is having its moment right now with producer Dani Zhang.  We're also joined by the Coalition of Aboriginal Peak Organisations to hear about their new partnership agreement with the state government, focused on closing the gap in Indigenous disadvantage. And earlier this week our producer Euan spoke to Phillipe Jacquot from the University of Sydney about how trending buzzwords from fitness influencers are conning consumers.  This episode of Backchat aired 17th Feb 2024. This episode was hosted by Holly Payne and Bec Cushway, produced by Dani Zhang, Nic Huntington, and Euan Kielly. 

This week on Backchat we’re discussing the trending issue of doxxing and the new proposal for laws to combat this digital issue.  Producer Holly Payne is chatting about Sydney’s asbestos crisis with Shane McArdle from the Asbestos and Dust Diseases Research Institute.  And Nick Newington takes a look at the increasing issue of Australia’s syphilis epidemic, and how the mainstream media has been missing the story for the last decade. This episode of Backchat was hosted by Holly Payne and Nick Newington, produced by Euan Kielly, Holly Payne, and Nick Newington. Backchat is broadcast on unceded Gadigal country, Saturdays at 9:30am on FBi 94.5fm.

This week on Backchat, producer Sana Shaikh delved into the Hills Shire Council's recent move to halt sponsorship for drag story time events, citing concerns about content aimed at kids. The council, situated in Sydney's vibrant Bible Belt, voted 10-2 to put the brakes on such events. The segment pondered what this decision might mean for LGBTQ+ youth in the area, featuring insights from Jasmine Nour, a drag artist and former Hills resident. Plus, Backchat caught up with Greens Councillor Dr. Mila Kasby, one of the two councillors who voted against the motion. Producer Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis breaks down the recent ICJ ruling in the South African case against Israel and what it means in terms of enforcable recommendations for the nations involved. Will the Palestinian people see any change as a result? It's been a big week for Sweatshop Literacy Movement. The community-based publisher have just released Povo, a collection of works from 37 culturally and linguistically diverse storytellers, including celebrated authors and organisers like Daniel Nour and Sara Saleh. The collection also features emerging voices with stories written from the Asylum Seekers Centre and from schools in Sydney's West. This week Backchat producer Lilly Grainger had the opportunity to sit down with Commissioning Editor, Adam Novaldy Anderson to get to know 'Povo,' its writers and better understand why empowering youth of diverse cultutral, linguistic and low socioeconomic backgrounds is so important.  This episode was hosted by Libby Hopper and Bec Cushway, and was produced by Sana Shaikh, Eva Sikes-Gerogiannis, and Lilly Grainger.

In the wake of another shark related incident in Sydney, Libby Hopper gets into the stigma around shark attacks and the do’s and don’ts for staying safe, not scared, in the water.  Medicare just turned 40 - is it in the midst of a midlife crisis? Hear from GP Dr Nicole Higgins on why health providers can no longer afford to bulk bill, the Strengthening Medicare Task Force and how Medicare support differs for our most vulnerable in rural, regional and metropolitan areas. What do we need to know about the new changes to the Stage 3 Tax Cuts? Bec Cushway and Crystal Andrews of Zee Feed break it down. This episode of Backchat aired Saturday 3rd February 2024.

Holly and Tanita talk to Phoebe McIlwraith (@northbutsouthhh), Bundjalung and Worimi Saltwater woman on Invasion Day and the growing far-right sentiment in Sydney. Further reading: First Nations Futures | Pay The Rent Dr Peter Lewis, president of national advocacy association ANTaR, joins to discuss the future of the 26th of January.  Yuin man Keiran Stewart-Assheton (@keiran_stewart_assheton) from the Black Peoples Union dials in to about the parallels between Indigenous struggles and that of Palestinian people.  This episode of Backchat aired Saturday 27th January 2024.

This week on Backchat, we listen to locals and producer Sana Shaikh on the chaos of the Rozelle Interchange’s first two weeks of operation. Then, hear from coastal geomorphologist Professor Rob Brander AKA Dr. Rip on staying safe in the surf this summer.  This episode of Backchat aired Saturday 9th December 2023.

This week on Backchat, producer Nic Huntington examines the hole in pothole funding. Nic chatted to Natasha Bradshaw, Senior Associate of Transport and Cities Program at the Grattan Institute, about how the increase in holes isn't resulting in an increase in funding.  Next, we take a look at some of the arrests from the ZIM and climate protests in the past week. We chat to Anastasia from Legal Observers NSW about what Legal Observers NSW has been seeing at these protests, and what your rights are when talking to police. Finaly, with World AIDS Day on December 1st, and the 2023 Nurse of the Year awarded last week, Backchat chats to joint winner John McAllister. With a career spanning over 40 years in HIV and sexual health, we celebrate his contribution to the Sydney community. This episode of backchat was produced by Nic Huntington, Sana Sheikh, and Rebecca Cushway.

This week on Backchat, producer Sana Sheikh dives into Woollahra Municipal Council's new decision to limit public parking to non-residents to 15 minutes, and provide free all-day parking for residents. This new change encompasses all parking near popular beach spot at Watson's Bay, potentially restricting access to anyone outside this postcode. We’ll be exploring whether this is fair and why some Sydneysiders get to benefit from our natural wonders whilst others can’t. Backchat chatted to Woollahra Municipal Council about the controversial new decision. Next, if you’re anything like us, you’ve been doing some heavy-duty online shopping this week. Which is why it’s absolutely horrifying to find out that people in NSW alone lost more than $2.5 million to online shopping scams in the last year. We’re diving into the uncharted waters of online shopping scams with RMIT mathematician Dr Arathi Arakala. Finally, a recent survey conducted by the NSW Department of Education found a major casual teacher shortage, meaning almost 10,000 lessons are happening without adequate educational support in public schools across New South Wales every day. We spoke to Natasha Watt, Acting Senior Vice President from New South Wales Teachers Federation, earlier in the week to discuss what this means for students across the state. This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Sheikh, Holly Payne, and Tanita Razaghi. 

This week on Backchat, we explore the groundbreaking new project from Monash University's XYX Lab, aimed at shedding light on the experience of women and gender-diverse people in NSW. The project is a crowd mapping project launched in collaboration with CrowdSpot that anonymously collects the 'safe' and 'unsafe' experiences these people have had in public spaces. Producer Bec Cushway chatted to Dr Niki Kalms to tell us more. Next, big changes to rights for stateless asylum seekers in Australia. Earlier this month the high court made a decision that will impact the lives of stateless refugees indefinitely detained in our detention centres. It was lauded as a major win by refugee advocates and former refugees. Backchat was joined by Ian Rintoul, coordinator from Refugee Action Coalition to find out more. Finally, Greens Senator Mehreen Faruqi joined us to discuss how Australian politicians are responding to the crisis in Gaza, particularly following the Greens walkout during question time this week.  Also a big sad and teary farewell to Backchat's outgoing Executive Producer, Eamonn Snow, who has kept the show running these past few years. He's left a big mark on the Backchat team, and the show wouldn't be where it is today without him.  Aired November 18, 2023. Produced by Bec Cushway, Sana Sheikh, Holly Payne, and (for the last time) Eamonn Snow.

This episode of Backchat delves into some of the new waste programs across Sydney, and how where you live across the LGAs could make a huge difference to what you can recycle, and how much it is going to cost you. Backchat producer Sana Shaikh explains in this week's wrap.  Next, with more and more young people questioning their reasons for drinking, stress and anxiety are emerging as some of the major players. Sydney University's Inroads program is an online, self-guided program for young adults who drink to reduce or cope with stress, nervousness or anxiety. Backchat chats to Dr Katrina Prior to understand how the Inroads program is helping young people. Finally, how would you rate the state of Sydney's live music scene? Post-Covid, NSW has lost over half of its live music venues and the scene is changing as a result. The NSW government has just announced a survey of artists and professionals working in the music industry, and Elise Chidiac from the Music Entertainment and Arts Alliance (MEAA) sheds some light. Aired November 11, 2023. This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Tanita Razaghi, Sana Shaikh and Eamonn Snow on Gadigal land.

This episode of Backchat comes to you following a difficult week; both in Australia and around the world. It’s been one week since Australia voted No to constitutional recognition of First Nations people via an Indigenous Voice to Parliament. It’s fair to say this has been a tough period for Indigenous people, with many choosing to take a step back to mourn. Others, however, are driven to continue the conversation as First Nations communities and broader Australia alike try to plot the steps post-referendum. Phoebe McIlwraith is a Bundjalung and Worri-my Saltwater woman based on Gadi/Wann Country. She’s a multi-disciplinary Koori creative keen to keep Indigenous voices front and centre right now and you'll be hearing her thoughts on the next steps for First Nations people and broader austraia alike. Next, the world is watching on in horror as war intensifies in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territory of Gaza. But how much do you know about the roots of this conflict? There has been a lot of context missing both from media reports and political responses to the ongoing situation in Israel and Palestine since this conflict began. So, for the background that you’re not hearing anywhere else, you'll be hearing a report from Backchat producer Eamonn Snow. After that, we'll have an interview with Lydia Shelley from the NSW Council of Civil Liberties on the situation in Gaza and the right to protest here in NSW. This episode of Backchat was produced by Nic Huntington, Tanita Razaghi, Sana Shaikh and Eamonn Snow.

It's an historic day as Australians head to the polls to vote in our first referendum since 1999. Today on Backchat, we'll be covering the vote from all angles. First up, if you’re still unsure on how today works or what is being asked of you, we’ll be going over some of the nitty gritty details of how referendums work and how to make sure your vote counts. Next, we'll be crossing to our reporters Sana and Nic who are on the ground at polling stations in Burwood and Redfern, respectively. They'll be sharing conversations they have had with voters and conveying the mood of the moment. Finally, to unpack the significance of today and what comes next, we’ll be joined later by Phoebe McIlwraith, a Bundjalung and Worimi Saltwater woman based on Gadi/Wann Country. She’s a multi-disciplinary Koori creative with a background in policy, political economy and law at the University of Newcastle. This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Sana Shaikh, Nic Huntington, Tanita Razaghi, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 07/10/2023) - This week on Backchat, we're priming you for the 2023 Referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament. Our coverage in this episode aims to cut through a lot of the confusion around this historic vote by platforming First Nations voices. First up you’re gonna be hearing from Bridget Cama, a Wiradjuri First Nations and Pasifika Fijian woman who is co-chair of the Uluru Youth Dialogue. Bridget has been travelling across the country campaigning for the Yes vote and will be laying out what The Voice would be, and the case for Yes, while responding to the torrent of misinformation floating around. Next, we'll have report on the case for a progressive ‘no’ vote, and why some First Nations people have felt like they haven’t been heard during this referendum. You'll be hearing from grassroots First Nations activist Jennetta Quinn-Bates, who has been actively campaigning for a no vote, and from Sydney racial equity consultant Alicia Jay, who has been leading online discussions about allyship through the referendum. This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 30/09/2023) - On this episode of Backchat, we kick things off with a look at the latest findings from a NSW Police Inquiry into strip searches. Among other things, the report contains some pretty scathing information about how few officers are adequately trained to conduct these invasive searches. Backchat producer Libby Hopper will be with us to unpack it all. Next, how much attention do you pay the many beautiful trees adorning Sydney's streets? They play a crucial role in keeping our city habitable, and with heatwaves set to increase in both frequency and severity, some are facing new threats. Dr Renee Prokopavicius, plant ecophysiologist at Western Sydney University will join us to dive deeper into our urban trees. Finally, this week brought the devastating news that Varroa Mite is here to stay. Authorities have abandoned efforts to rid Australia of the parasite, which devastates our European bee populations. So, what next? To answer this and mroe, you'll be hearinf from Emily Remnant, Lecturer and Academic Fellow from the School of Life and Environmental Sciences at the University of Sydney. This episode of Backchat was produced by Libby Hopper, Nc Huntington, Sana Shaikh and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 23/09/2023) - First up, we chat with Backchat Producer Libby Hopper about some of the NSW Budget highlights – and what the big winners and losers are for this round.   Next, we delve into public housing and social housing in NSW’s budget – a huge focus in this year’s budget with Rachel Evans from Action for Public Housing and Michelle May, Principal of Michelle May’s Buyer’s Agent. Victor Steffensen, lead fire practitioner, and co-founder of the Firesticks Alliance joins us to break down why we should look to the past to prevent future catastrophes when it comes to fire prevention strategies. This episode of Backchat was produced by Libby Hopper, Sana Shaikh, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 16/09/2023) - This week on Backchat, we get moving with a dive into the news the Macquarie Bank will be going cashless at branches from next year. We'll break down what this will mean and who will be impacted. Next, we're peering into a campaign to stop a sewage pump station being built at Parlsey Bay in Vaucluse. Residents say it'll destroy wildlife, while Sydney water says its needed to solve a serious sewage issue. Finally, we return to the Waterloo public housing redevelopment for a special report. Plans to demolish and redevelop the area have dragged on for two decades now with residents the clear losers. This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Hollly Payne, Nic Huntington and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 09/09/2023) - We kick off this episode of Backchat with a look at Sydney's worsening housing woes. The Committee for Sydney has just released a new report dealing just how much this crisis is costing - and will continue to cost - our city. Estelle Grech is an urban planner with the Committee For Sydney, and she will be in studio to unpack some of the takeaways from their latest report. Next up, we're joined by Sydney author and PhD researcher, Anna Broinowski for a look into the world of Deepfakes. Are we doomed? Are there positives? We'll answer this and more in a fascinating conversation. Stay tuned for a follow up, too. Finally, we round things out with a special look at the Varroa mite outbreak that continues to devastate bee populations across NSW. Our own Holly Payne has spoken to Honey Bee Council CEO Danny LeFeuvre and Sydney Uni scientist Dr Emily Remnant for the lowdown. This episode of Backchat was produced by Sumaiya Chowdhure, Holly Payne, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 02/09/2023) - On Backchat this week – some big news has entered our political sphere. First up, how’s your pay check looking? Our federal pollies and public servants just received a serious pay bump - and we’ll be breaking down wage rises (or a lack thereof) for young people in Australia. Next up, the date for the referendum has finally been announced for October 14. As we inch closer to the date, have we ever stopped to consider how global examples of Indigenous voices look like? Hear from Harry Hobbs, legal academic specialising in constitutional law at UTS, and policy expert Andrew Wear. This episode of Backchat was brought to you by our talented producers Sana Sheikh, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 26/08/2023) - On Backchat this week - we bring you the news of Sydney & beyond. First up, we run through why Zoom, the platform that turbocharged throughout the pandemic, has found itself in hot water for privacy issues. Earlier this week, we saw the federal government release its 6th Intergenerational Report on what Australia could look like over the next 40 years. To break it down what this means for us young folks is Justine Landis-Hanley, Canberra Times reporter.   Lastly, we chat to Nick Mcintosh, National Assistant Secretary of the Transport Workers Union & Naeem ul Haq, representative from PakOz on why we need to sound the alarm around the safety of food delivery workers.  This episode of Backchat was brought to you by our talented producers Eamonn Snow, Tanita Razaghi and Jostina Basta. 

(aired 19/08/2023) - Matildas fever opens this episode of Backchat. How could it not? There’s something about The Matildas that has really struck a chord this year, and we'll be taking a few minutes with our own Holly Payne to unpack some of the history behind the team, the records that they’ve broken over the last few weeks and have a guess as to what the future holds. Next up, we're jumping back into YIMBY/NIMBY land after New research from Western Sydney university has shown the NIMBY approach to housing development has had direct impacts on minority groups across Sydney, especially Western Sydney. Western Sydney urban planning researcher, Dr Awais Piracha will join us to break down his latest research. Finally, Do you feel like buses in Sydney getting later and later? Well you’re not wrong. This week the Bus Industry Taskforce, which is a group the government put together to make recommendations to improve bus services across NSW, released its first report. And it was a damning one. David Babineau - Tram and Bus Division Secretary of the Rail, Tram and Bus Union will join us to unpack this new report and what solutions are being considered. This episode of Backchat was produced by Nic Huntington, Sana Shaikh, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow. And an even bigger thanks to Matt Le Guay. Matt has been one of the pros behind Backchat’s social media content and today is his last show with us. Thank you Matt!

(aired 12/08/2023) - Heard much about the Fair Pay for Radio Play bill being debated in federal parliament? We'll be kicking off this episode of Backchat with a deep dive into the new proposed bill and what it could mean for aussie artists. Backchat producer Libby Hopper will be in the chair with all you need to know. Next, you’re not imagining it - the days are literally hotter in Western Sydney. The area records about 30% more hot or very hot days each year compared to the East. Later on in the show, we’ll be hearing from meteorologist Milton Speer on just why that’s so. This episode of Backchat was produced by Libby Hopper, Matt Le Guay and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 05/08/2023) - We're diving into our state's contentious shark netting program to kick off this episode of Backchat; after the New South Wales Government dropped its Shark Meshing, Bather Protection Report for 2023. Backchat producer Libby Hopper is in the chair to explain the report's findings and how government and conservation groups have reacted to the news. Next, pill testing is back on the agenda in NSW after the Unharm organisation launched its ‘Just Check It’ campaign with the Minns Labor government squarely in its sights. Unharm campaigns director, Sam Kidd will join us to unpack their case and the state of play for harm reduction in NSW right now. Finally, with the Women's World Cup well underway, Backchat host Holly Payne has spent the week examining the increasing fears around head knocks and concussions in women's sport. Hear from Neurophysiologist Professor Alan Pearce and neurologist Dr Rowena Mobbs about their research into chronic traumatic encephalopathy in athletes. This episode of Backchat was produced by Libby Hopper, Holly Payne and Eamonn Snow

(aired 29/07/2023 - Bushfire season is upon us, and this week on Backchat we'll get started with a look at our preparedness. Outgoing Backchat producer Matt Le Guay will be in the hot seat to unpack how we're tracking and how much Indigenous cultural cool burning practices have been incorporated into our preparation. Next up - cash looks to eb going the way of the Dodo, but do we really understand what a totally cashless society would mean? You'll be hearing from Swinburne Uni’s professor Steve Worthington and Ronald Mizen from the Australian Financial Review as they try to answer some of these questions. Finally - most of us watch or have watched porn. How much thought have you given to the ethics of the porn you consume? Sydney Uni has just released the results from a landmark global study examining the ethics of pornography, and we’ll be diving into that research and the world of ethical porn via a report from Backchat reporter Nic Huntington. This episode of Backchat was produced by Matt Le Guay, Sana Shaikh, Nic Huntington and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 22/07/2023) - This week on Backchat, we're kicking things off with an explanation of the latest phenomenon borne from social media - Girl Dinner. You may have seen it bumping around your socials feed, but what does this tell us about gender roles in 2023? Our host Tanita Razaghi is leading this explanation with help from producer Libby. Next, we're exploring Bush to Bowl - a social enterprise aimed at creating a healing space & platform through First Nations knowledge, by connecting to country and their traditional foodways - providing experiences near Terry Hills. One of the founders of Bush to Bowl, Clarence Bruinsma, is on the line to unpack his work. Finally, egg freezing has entered the mainstream - taking centre stage on social media as females take to the apps to share their experience. But is this really productive or just adding to pressure women already feel about their bodies and life more broadly? Backchat producer Libby Hopper got chatting with fertility specialist Dr Giselle Crawford and finfluencer, Jessica Leung from the leung way to crack into it. This episode of Backchat was produced by Tanita Razaghi, Nic Huntington, Libby Hopper Jostina Basta, and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 15/07/23) On Backchat this week, we bring you the stories of Sydney and beyond – and we’re keeping it super local this time! TW: This show discusses SA and rape. First up, with many of us noticing our grocery shops getting more expensive by the day, you’ll be hearing from Backchat Producer Sana Sheikh about why this is the case and what this means for young people.   Next up, we’ll be about the open letter that was put forward to the Albanese government from a group called End Rape on Campus. Iggy Boyd and Alev Saracoglou, Women’s Wfficers from the University of Sydney’s Student Representative Council will be breaking down why students are calling time on the university sector’s efforts to improve safety on campus. This episode of Backchat was brought to you by our talented producers Sana Sheikh, Holly Payne, and Eamonn Snow. 

(aired 08/07/2023)  On Backchat this week, we bring you a special episode in celebration of NAIDOC Week. Join us as we delve into the rich history and culture of our First Nations peoples, with an line up of 100% Indigenous voices. First up, we explore something that has now become a common practise in many settings across Australia - an acknowledgement of country. Mundanara Bayles, Director of Blackcard shares how we can transcend the surface level, and foster genuine change through our acknowledgements.  With this year's theme for NAIDOC being 'For Our Elders', we were honoured to be joined by Gumbaynggir educator and Elder, Uncle Michael Jarrett, about his work to safeguard the future of his native tounge.  This episode of Backchat was brought to you by our talented producers Jostina Basta, Tanita Razaghi, Eamonn Snow and Matt Le Guay. 

(aired 01/07/2023) This week on Backchat, we're kicking things off with a dive into the editorial decisions in Australian newsrooms following the wall-to-wall coverage of the Titan submersible disaster. Our producer Sana Shaikh is in the studio to run through the pitfalls and forgotten stories of our overwhelmingly white newsrooms. Next, RACGP spokesperson on addiction, Dr Hester Wilson is in studio to chat about advances in harm reduction. Opioid dependence therapy drugs have recently made their way onto the Pharmecuitical Benefits Scheme - a move that continues Australia's trend towards effective harm reduction when it comes to drug use. Finally, how many birds do you see around Sydney day-today? We're rounding things out with a chat with Australia's preeminent urban bird expert, Dr Grainne Cleary about what we can do to protect and promote Sydney's birdlife. This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne, Jostina Basta, and Eamonn Snow.

(Aired 04/02/23) - This week on Backchat we'll be discussing the digitisation of the work place and how it has affected our workplace productivity. Next, we’ll be chatting with Grattan Institute economist, Joey Moloney on the what is causing the current economic struggles of young people in todays society, and how the government should address the issue. Finally, you'll be hearing from Dr Brad Mckay from the Darlinghurst Medical Centre to briefly explain Mpox (formerly known as Monkey Pox) and how to protect yourself from Mpox during the upcoming World Pride Festival. This episode of Backchat was produced by Sumaiya Chowdhure, Jostina Basta, Matt Le Guay and Eamonn Snow.

(Aired 28/01/23) - Invasion Day came and went this week and as always, it’s sparked debate around the history of Australia, the future of First Nations people and the deep divisions we collectively face. This week on Backchat, we'll be centring our coverage around First Nations issues. We kick things off with a look at what the last 12 months has meant for First Nations resistance. Indigenous scholar and popular podcaster Alicia Johnson joins us to unpack it all. Next up, we're joined by Waradjuri man and member of the Uluru Dialogue Leadership, Roy Ah-See, to discuss where we're at with a Voice to Parliament following Invasion Day protests and new data on Indigenous support for constitutional change. Finally, you'll hear a chat with constitutional law expert Professor Anne Twomey on the legal framework surrounding a Voice to Parliament. This episode of Backchat was produced by Tanita Razaghi, Holly Payne, Matt Le Guay and Eamonn Snow.

(Aired 21/01/23) - Backchat is back for 2023, and we're hitting the ground running this week. First up, we're gonna be tackling the prickly issue of parking permits in inner-Sydney and what impact they're having on renters in share houses or on short-term leases. Next, we’ll be chatting with obstetrician and gynaecologist Professor Kirsten Black about why women are finding it difficult to access publicly-funded abortions, even though the procedure is no longer a crime. Finally, pokies are shaping up to be a defining policy issue for the upcoming NSW state election, so you’ll be hearing from independent MP Alex Grenwich for an insight into the politics of pokies in NSW right now. This episode of Backchat was produced by Jostina Basta, Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne, Timothy Nguyen and Eamonn Snow.

(Aired 17/12/22) - It's the final episode of Backchat for 2022, but we haven't let that slow us down. Getting us started this week will be a look at the gender pay gap in Australia as we address some of the misconceptions around the issue. Backchat producer Timothy Nguyen has been exploring this one and will be in studio to share what he's found. Next, Sydney’s prestigious Waverley college was in the news last week for all the wrong reasons as allegations of brutal bullying and ‘hazing’ rituals directed at year 7 students were made public. Dr Karyn Healy will be coming on to unpack the culture of bullying in Australia, the rite of passage in schools and the mental impact of this behaviour on young boys. Finally, we're wrapping up 2022 proceedings with a special interview with NSW Labor leader Chris Minns. This episode of Backchat was produced by Timothy Nguyen, Sumaiya Chowdhure, Jostina Basta and Matt Le Guay.

(aired 10/12/22) - This week on Backchat, we're kicking things off with a look at the planned changes to Indonesia's legal code. You've likely heard of the looming 'bonk ban', but there's plenty more changes worthy of your attention, too. Backchat producer Eamonn Snow will be in studio to unpack what's going on with our northern neighbour. After that, we'll be chatting education in NSW; after plans were announced to overhaul school syllabuses in an attempt to adress steadily declining literacy skills. NSW education advisor Peter Knapp will be on to unpack what has gone wrong and our hope of turning things around. Finally, we’re gonna be taking a closer look at something that - whether you’ll admit it or not - you’ve definitely done at least once: Vaping. You’ll be hearing from Emily Jenkinson from the Cancer Council about where we’re at with vapes and the impact they’re having. This episode of Backchat was produced by Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.

(Aired 03/12/22) -  This week on Backchat, we get started with an update on the Royal Sydney Golf Club's controversial redevelopment, after the golf club overcame a final legal hurdle last week. Greens councillor with Woollahra Council, Nicola Grieve will join Tanita and Holly to unpack where things are at. Next, we're joined by Chloe Williamson from the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance to chat sexual assault and harrassment in the music industry. This comes after the landmark 'Raising Their Voices' report released damning findings into the safety of people woring within the Australian music industry. Finally, we'll have a special report from Backchat reporter Lill Scott into the state of gambling in Australia and the harm gambling addicitons are inflicting on young people. This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Sumaiya Chowdhure, Lill Scott and Eamonn Snow.

(Aired 26/11/22) - We're bringing you a very special episode of Backchat this week, as our host Charles Rushforth bids the program adieu after more than two years. We'll have a bunch of soppy farewelling sprinkled - of course - amongst the news that matters to you. We'll kick things off with a look at the NSW Government's plans to turn their remaining single-sex schools to co-ed. Backchat producer Timothy Nguyen will be in the hot seat to run us through that one. Next, we're gonna be putting buy-now-pay-later services under the spotlight as a flurry of chrustmas shopping gets underway. Kirsty Robson from the Consumer Law Action Centre will join Charles and Tanita to explain the risks and harm associated with services like Afterpay and Zip Pay. Finally, we're dedicating the final segment to our Charlie, with both live and pre recorded farewells from Backchat members past and present. This episode of Backchat was produced by Timothy Nguyen, Sana Shaikh, Matt Le Guay and Eamonn Snow.

(Aired 19/11/22) - This week, we’ll be kicking off the show by chatting with producer Sana Shaikh about why NSW laws have been passed this week to stop taxi drivers from negotiating the fare instead of using the meter.  We kick off our state election coverage this week as we speak to NSW Labor’s shadow minister for the environment, Penny Sharpe. Backchat looks at the koala wars, natural disasters and what the opposition has in store for the environment if they win. Next, we’ll be chatting to Sophie Li, a researcher for the ‘While We Wait’ project from the Black Dog Institute about the extended wait lists and wait times for young people to access mental health services, and just how risky these wait times can be.  This episode was produced by Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne and Jostina Basta. A huge thank you to our guests for jumping on the show.

(Aired 12/11/22) - This week's episode of Backchat kicks off with some much needed analysis of the collapse of RedCycle - the soft plastic recycling scheme you would have seen at Coles and Woolies. Backchat producer Sana Shaikh is in studio to run us through what happened and where we go from here when it comes to plastic and recycling in Australia. Next, we're chatting trees after the NSW Government reached its goal of planting one million trees across greater Sydney in 2022. Associate Professor Sebastian Pfautsch will be running us through that plan, its benefits, and what work we still need to do to. Finally, we're exploring the fderal government's planned changes to gambling advertisements with gambling researcher with CQU, Alex Russell. This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne and Eamonn Snow.

(Aired 29/10/22) - This week on Backchat, we kick things off with a look at the slimy world of sports sponsorship in Australia, following the Australian Netball team’s sensational rejection of a lucrative sponsorship deal with Gina Reinhart’s Hancock Prospecting. Next, we're going behind the scenes into the push to revive Chinatown after several years of neglect. Andrea Plawutsky from Haymarket HQ will be on to run us through the plan to breathe new life into the area. Finally, Labor delivered its first budget in over a decade earlier in the week - so what should young people make of it? We’re joined by independent economist and councilor for the Climate Council, Nicki Hutley to break down some key areas of the budget and what it’ll mean for young people moving forward. This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.

(Aired 05/11/22) - On Backchat this week, we get moving with a conversation around the increasing commercialisation of Sydney's green spaces and public areas. This comes after a resident living near Tumbalong Park in Sydney CBD calculated that the park had been unusable to the public for over 150 days this year. Next, we're discussing the cascading failures that contributed to the tragic death of Noongar-Yamatji schoolboy Cassius Turvey, and the continued struggle facing Indigenous Australians. Frontier War Stories podcast creator and host Boe Spearim joins us for that conversation. This Episode of Backchat was produced by Tanita Razaghi and Eamonn Snow

(Aired 22/10/22) - This week on Backchat, producer Holly is in to guide us through the sensational resignation of state Labor MP Tania Mihailuk and what it means for the party as a state election looms for 2023. Next, as new laws limiting protest are being challenged in the supreme court, we're talking the slow slip of civil liberties in New South Wales with Josh Pallas from the NSW Council for Civil Liberties. Finally, a joint investigation by the ABC and Nine newspapers this week alleged doctors were rorting our public health system to the tune of 8 billion dollars - but is this the full story? You'll be hearing from Mariam Tokhi, a GP with Refugee Health in Melbourne, for insight into the bigger picture when it comes to our Medicare woes. This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Sana Shaikh, Timothy Nguyen, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.

(aired 15/10/22) - This week on Backchat, we kick off with a look at Sydney’s cycle-friendliness after NSW police descended on the CBD earlier in the week for a crackdown on non-compliant cyclists. Next, we dive into what the prickly stage three tax cuts could mean for young people with Dr Greg Jericho from The Australia Institute and the Guardian news. Finally, have you noticed some of your favourite products shrinking while prices go the other way? Backchat will be tackling the most cursed aspect of our cost of living crisis - shrinkflation. This episode of Backchat was produced by Charles Rushforth, Tanita Razaghi and Eamonn Snow.

Aired 08/10/22 - This week on Backchat, Backchat producer Sana Shaikh jumps on for a dive into the recently fast-tracked state government plan to raise the wall of the Warragamba Dam by 14 metres. We'll have all you need to know about this complex and controversial response to incresed floding events in Sydney. Next, we're joined by First national Real Estate CEO, Ray Ellis to unpack mould issues in rental properties and the tension between tenants and their real estate when it comes to rectifying issues like this. Finally, you'll hear a chat with Leo Patterson-Ross from the NSW tenants union about the worsening state of Sydney's rental market. This episode of Backchat was prodcued by Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne and Eamonn Snow.

Aired 01/10/22 - This week on Backchat, you'll be first hearing about the halting of a promised arts hub in Marrickville as Sydney creatives complain of 'trojan horse' gentrification. We'll have exclusive commentary from Tim Levinson - aka Urthboy - about moves to suspend construction of the hub and the situation facing the arts community in inner Sydney. Next, we'll have a chat with NSW Senator for the Greens, David Shoebridge, about his party's recently announced policy to legalise marijuana nationwide. Finally, new research out of Western Sydney Uni suggests that over half of Western Sydney's agricultural land has been sold to development over the last decade. We'll be chatting to Awais Piracha, one of the authors of this research, about what this could mean for our food security now and into the future.  This episode of Backchat was produced by Timothy Nguyen, Eddy Diamond and Eamonn Snow.

Aired 24/09/22 - This week on Backchat, we get started with a look at the recently released findings of an enquiry into the drug ice, which recommended that some quantities of drugs be decriminalised in NSW. Next, we chat to Saul Deane from Total Environment Centre about a state government plan to open up huge chunks of Western Sydney - including critical Koala habitat - to new development. Backchat producer Alice Leggett caps things off with a chat to Adam Jones from the NSW State Emergency Service about the preparations underway for a looming third La Niña. This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Alice Leggett, Jostina Basta and Eamonn Snow.

Aired 17/09/22 - This week, Backchat kicks off with a dive into a damning report that found Star Casino was unfit to hold a casino license in NSW. Next, int he wake of the shocking leaked group chat from Knox Grammar, we hear from a former student from an elite private boys school about the culture in those environments. Finally, we check in with Amanda Copp from National Radio News about what the Queen's death is going to mean for the productivity of our federal parliament as the sitting year draws to a close. This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Sumaiya Chowdhure and Eamonn Snow.

Aired 10/09/22 - We kick off Backchat this week with a much needed explanation of the industrial dispute that has gripped the Sydney rail network recently. Next, we explore the controversial question of ethical shoplifting with QLD Greens councillor Jonathan Sriranganathan. Finally, we’ll be chatting with 2021 Queenslander of the year, Dr Dinesh Palipana about why there are very few doctors with disability, and what’s rotten in the culture of medicine.  This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Holly Payne and Eamonn Snow.

Aired 03/09/22 - Backchat kicks off this week with a look at the gender pay gap in 2022 - why you should care and how it's set to impact women moving forward. Next, you'll be hearing directly from one NSW student who received an Order of Australia medal at just seventeen years old. Laura Eastlake will be on the line to tell us about her achievement and her plans for the future. Finally, Backchat producer Sumaiya Chowdhure will be in studio to give you the lowdown on quiet quitting and also share the perspective of a quiet-quitter. This episode of Backchat was produced by Sana Shaikh, Eddy Diamond, Sumaiya Chowdhure and Eamonn Snow.

Aired 27/08/22 - This week, Backchat kicks off with a chat to producer Holly about the Royal Sydney Golf Club's controversial plans to expand, and the two Sydney councils going to court to stop it. Next, you'll hear from Rushani Epa, Founder and Editor-In-Chief of Colournary food magazine, about the state of hospo venues in Australia as many continue to close their doors. Finally, you'll be hearing a chat with Nick McIntosh from the Transport Workers Union on Qantas' treatment of workers as their reputation continues to dive. This episode of Backchat was produced by Holly Payne, Sana Shaikh, Timothy Ngyuen and Eamonn Snow.

Aired 13/08/22 - On Backchat this week, you'll firstly be hearing about plans to demolish and redevelop two public housing sites in Sydney and what will happen to the residents displaced by the development. Next, we'll have all you need to know about the latest virus threatening our shores - Monkeypox. Dr Brad Mackay will be on to help separate fact from fiction. FInally, you’ll be hearing a chat with the National Tertiary Education Union’s NSW secretary Damien Cahill about why staff at the University of Sydney will be striking for better working conditions. This episode of Baclchat was produced by Sumaiya Chowdhure, Holly Payne, Jostina Basta, Vanessa Lim and Eamonn Snow

Aired 06/08/22 - This week, Backchat's Syndey wrap explores disturbing new figures highlighting the extent of pokie losses in NSW, with some Sydney's lowest income suburbs ranking highest for pokie takings. Next, we have a special interview with Natascha Haupt and Luisa Giles-Baker from the National Centre for Indigenous Excellence after staff and visitors to the centre received the shock news that it would be closing. Finally, you'll be hearing a chat with Chair of Homelessness Australia, Jenny Smith about youth homelessness and how we can better address it. This episode of Backchat was produced by Timothy Nguyen, Sana Shake, Jostina Basta and Emma Pham.

(Aired 30/07/22) The latest on Backchat! First up, we sit down with Backchat producer Sana Shaikh to discuss the topic of kitty curfews, proposed for NSW by the Wagga Wagga council to protect their native wildlife. Next, we're joined by data journalist from The Guardian, Josh Nicholas, to unpack the implications and very valid concerns around period tracking apps sharing / selling user data in light of the overturning of Roe v Wade. To wrap up, we're taking a look at how the first week of parliament with a new goverment shaped up to be with political reporter, Amanda Copp. Huge thanks to our wonderful guests for coming on the show and to our legend co-hosts, Charles Rushforth and Tanita Razaghi. Massive cheers to our producers, Sana Shaikh, Tanita Razaghi, Eamonn Snow, Jostina Basta and Vanessa Lim.