Despite dire warnings from the scientific community and Australia’s Pacific neighbours, the federal government isn’t getting the message.

On this episode of Follow the Money, Tuvalu Minister for Climate Change and Environment Dr Maina Vakafua Talia and Canadian independent Senator Dr Rosa Galvez join us to discuss the need to phase out fossil fuels.

This episode was recorded live on Wednesday 16 September at the Australia Institute’s Politics in the Pub event in Canberra.

More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.

Use the code ‘FOOLME’ on a four-edition Vantage Point subscription to receive a free copy of Richard’s book, Econobabble.

Guest: The Hon Dr Maina Vakafua Talia, Minister for Climate Change and Environment for the Government of Tuvalu

Guest: The Hon Senator Dr Rosa Galvez, Independent Senator for Québec (Bedford), Canada // @senrosagalvez

Host: Louise Morris, Head of Fossil Fuel Transition, the Australia Institute // @louisemorris

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

Show notes:

Transition Away from Fossil Fuels: A roadmap for Australia by Hamdi Jama, Rod Campbell & Louise Morris, the Australia Institute (September 2026)

Australia and Canada can learn from each other on climate if we separate action from declaration by Rosa Galvez, Guardian Australia (September 2026)

Albanese's Climate Week speech left out the numbers that matter most by Louise Morris, The Point (September 2026)

Limiting Overshoot - Navigating exceedance of 1.5°C and pathways towards return, United Nations Overshoot Programme (September 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.

Despite dire warnings from the scientific community and Australia&rsquo;s Pacific neighbours, the federal government isn&rsquo;t getting the message.
On this episode of Follow the Money, Tuvalu Minister for Climate Change and Environment Dr Maina Vakafua Talia and Canadian independent Senator Dr Rosa Galvez join us to discuss the need to phase out fossil fuels.
This episode was recorded live on Wednesday 16 September at the Australia Institute&rsquo;s Politics in the Pub event in Canberra.
<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, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.
Use the code &lsquo;FOOLME&rsquo; on <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">a four-edition Vantage Point subscription</a> to receive a free copy of Richard&rsquo;s book, Econobabble.
Guest: The Hon Dr Maina Vakafua Talia, Minister for Climate Change and Environment for the Government of Tuvalu
Guest: The Hon Senator Dr Rosa Galvez, Independent Senator for Qu&eacute;bec (Bedford), Canada // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/senrosagalvez.bsky.social">@senrosagalvez</a>
Host: Louise Morris, Head of Fossil Fuel Transition, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/louisemorris.bsky.social">@louisemorris</a>
Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/ebonybennett.bsky.social">@ebonybennett</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/report/transition-away-from-fossil-fuels/">Transition Away from Fossil Fuels: A roadmap for Australia</a> by Hamdi Jama, Rod Campbell &amp; Louise Morris, the Australia Institute (September 2026)
<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/sep/12/australia-canada-climate-integrity-summit-rosa-galvez">Australia and Canada can learn from each other on climate if we separate action from declaration</a> by Rosa Galvez, Guardian Australia (September 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/260922-albaneses-climate-week-speech-left-out-the-numbers-that-matter-most">Albanese's Climate Week speech left out the numbers that matter most</a> by Louise Morris, The Point (September 2026)
<a href="https://www.unep.org/resources/limiting-overshoot-navigating-exceedance">Limiting Overshoot - Navigating exceedance of 1.5&deg;C and pathways towards return</a>, United Nations Overshoot Programme (September 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.

Despite dire warnings from the scientific community and Australia’s Pacific neighbours, the federal government isn’t getting the message.

The promise of a future: it’s time to phase out fossil fuels

Australia's 'sickspan'

Private sector performs poorly in care sectors

Private health insurance

Soaring cost of specialists

Changes to private health rebate

Solutions

Soaring specialist costs, an increasingly complex system, and Australians getting sicker for longer suggest all is not well in Australian health care.

On this episode of Follow the Money, Dr Luke Slawomirski and Matt Grudnoff join Ebony Bennett to discuss the soaring cost of specialists, why pushing people towards the private health system doesn’t take pressure off public hospitals, the government’s proposed changes to private health rebates, and how to ensure Australia doesn’t backslide towards US-style health care.

This episode was recorded on Tuesday 15 September.

Correction: During the discussion on Australian specialist costs, Luke mistakenly said that average costs in the Australian Capital Territory are six times higher than Tasmania. They are actually four times higher.

More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.

Use the code ‘FOOLME’ on a four-edition Vantage Point subscription to receive a free copy of Richard’s book, Econobabble.

Guest: Luke Slawomirski, Senior Postdoctoral Research Fellow, the Australia Institute // @lukeslawomirski

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

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

Show notes:

Australia has an illness system, not a health system by Luke Slawomirski, The Point (July 2026)

Millions delay or skip appointments as specialist care become too expensive for many Australians – new research, the Australia Institute (August 2026)

Why scrapping the age-based private health insurance rebate makes sense by Luke Slawomirski, The Point (September 2026)

The quarter of a trillion dollar shortfall leaving states and territories scrambling, the Australia Institute (September 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.

Soaring specialist costs, an increasingly complex system, and Australians getting sicker for longer suggest all is not well in Australian health care.
On this episode of Follow the Money, Dr Luke Slawomirski and Matt Grudnoff join Ebony Bennett to discuss the soaring cost of specialists, why pushing people towards the private health system doesn&rsquo;t take pressure off public hospitals, the government&rsquo;s proposed changes to private health rebates, and how to ensure Australia doesn&rsquo;t backslide towards US-style health care.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday 15 September.
Correction: During the discussion on Australian specialist costs, Luke mistakenly said that average costs in the Australian Capital Territory are six times higher than Tasmania. They are actually four times higher.
<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, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.
Use the code &lsquo;FOOLME&rsquo; on <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">a four-edition Vantage Point subscription</a> to receive a free copy of Richard&rsquo;s book, Econobabble.
Guest: Luke Slawomirski, Senior Postdoctoral Research Fellow, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/lukeslawomirski.bsky.social">@lukeslawomirski</a>
Guest: Matt Grudnoff, Senior Economist, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/mattgrudnoff.bsky.social">@mattgrudnoff</a>
Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/ebonybennett.bsky.social">@ebonybennett</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/260729-australia-has-an-illness-system-not-a-health-system">Australia has an illness system, not a health system</a> by Luke Slawomirski, The Point (July 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/millions-delay-or-skip-appointments-as-specialist-care-become-too-expensive-for-many-australians-new-research/">Millions delay or skip appointments as specialist care become too expensive for many Australians &ndash; new research</a>, the Australia Institute (August 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/260911-why-scrapping-the-age-based-private-health-insurance-rebate-makes-sense">Why scrapping the age-based private health insurance rebate makes sense</a> by Luke Slawomirski, The Point (September 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/the-quarter-of-a-trillion-dollar-shortfall-leaving-states-and-territories-scrambling/">The quarter of a trillion dollar shortfall leaving states and territories scrambling</a>, the Australia Institute (September 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.

Soaring specialist costs, an increasingly complex system, and Australians getting sicker for longer suggest all is not well in Australian health care.

Australia built an illness system, not a health system

The rise of non-competes

Proposal to ban most non-competes

Competition in the Australian economy

Support for legislative change

Non-compete clauses suppress wages, reduce productivity and stifle innovation. Now, the federal government is looking to ban them for most workers.

The Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP, Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, joins Ebony Bennett to discuss the pernicious impact of non-compete clauses and the federal government’s new legislation seeking to ban them for 9-in-10 workers.

This episode was recorded on Tuesday 8 September.

More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.

Use the code ‘FOOLME’ on a four-edition Vantage Point subscription to receive a free copy of Richard’s book, Econobabble.

Guest: Andrew Leigh, Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury and Federal Member for Fenner // @aleighmp

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

Show notes:

Reform to non-compete clauses and other restraints – draft legislation, Department of Treasury Consultation Hub

Government seeks to ban non-compete agreements for most workers by Jack Thrower, The Point Live (September 2026)

New data shows many businesses are now using non-compete clauses – and that’s bad for workers by Jack Thrower, the Australia Institute (February 2024)

The great unbinding: non‑competes, freedom and the future of competition, Sydney Institute address by the Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP (September 2025)

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

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

Non-compete clauses suppress wages, reduce productivity and stifle innovation. Now, the federal government is looking to ban them for most workers.
The Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP, Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury, joins Ebony Bennett to discuss the pernicious impact of non-compete clauses and the federal government&rsquo;s new legislation seeking to ban them for 9-in-10 workers.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday 8 September.
<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, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.
Use the code &lsquo;FOOLME&rsquo; on <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">a four-edition Vantage Point subscription</a> to receive a free copy of Richard&rsquo;s book, Econobabble.
Guest: Andrew Leigh, Assistant Minister for Productivity, Competition, Charities and Treasury and Federal Member for Fenner // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/aleighmp.bsky.social">@aleighmp</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://consult.treasury.gov.au/c2026-801178">Reform to non-compete clauses and other restraints &ndash; draft legislation</a>, Department of Treasury Consultation Hub
<a href="https://live.thepoint.com.au/2026/09/the-point-live-parliament-returns-as-it-happens-2/#8b3dc17566">Government seeks to ban non-compete agreements for most workers</a> by Jack Thrower, The Point Live (September 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/new-data-shows-many-businesses-are-now-using-non-compete-clauses-and-thats-bad-for-workers/">New data shows many businesses are now using non-compete clauses &ndash; and that&rsquo;s bad for workers</a> by Jack Thrower, the Australia Institute (February 2024)
<a href="https://ministers.treasury.gov.au/ministers/andrew-leigh-2025/speeches/address-sydney-institute">The great unbinding: non‑competes, freedom and the future of competition</a>, Sydney Institute address by the Hon Dr Andrew Leigh MP (September 2025)
Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>. Subscribe to Follow the Money on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/follow-the-money/id1078781512">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0JOrvYNuhHOwaFuZ7PlW1d?si=e9265dc6a04d40b3">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/follow-the-money/2aeecbb0-b36a-0133-2e57-6dc413d6d41d">Pocket Casts</a> or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

Non-compete clauses suppress wages, reduce productivity and stifle innovation. Now, the federal government is looking to ban them for most workers.

The nasty secret buried in Australian workers' contracts

Australia's scandal-plagued consulting sector

How consultancies are regulated

The need for structural reform

After years of scandals, it’s time to break up Australia’s ‘big four’ consultancy firms.

On this episode of Follow the Money, Josh Bornstein and Skye Predavec join Ebony Bennett to discuss Australia’s scandal-plagued big consultancies, the impact of governments’ “orgy of outsourcing” to these firms, and why breaking up the ‘big four’ is the best way to prevent future misconduct.

This episode was recorded on Wednesday 2 September.

More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.

Use the code ‘FOOLME’ on a four-edition Vantage Point subscription to receive a free copy of Richard’s book, Econobabble.

Guest: Josh Bornstein, Director, Corporate Regulation, the Australia Institute // @joshbornstein

Guest: Skye Predavec, Researcher, the Australia Institute // @skyelark

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

Show notes:

Break up the Big Four by Josh Bornstein, Skye Predavec and Anara Watson, the Australia Institute (August 2026)

The KPMG scandal: We have seen this show before by Josh Bornstein, The Point (July 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.

After years of scandals, it&rsquo;s time to break up Australia&rsquo;s &lsquo;big four&rsquo; consultancy firms.
On this episode of Follow the Money, Josh Bornstein and Skye Predavec join Ebony Bennett to discuss Australia&rsquo;s scandal-plagued big consultancies, the impact of governments&rsquo; &ldquo;orgy of outsourcing&rdquo; to these firms, and why breaking up the &lsquo;big four&rsquo; is the best way to prevent future misconduct.
This episode was recorded on Wednesday 2 September.
<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, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.
Use the code &lsquo;FOOLME&rsquo; on <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">a four-edition Vantage Point subscription</a> to receive a free copy of Richard&rsquo;s book, Econobabble.
Guest: Josh Bornstein, Director, Corporate Regulation, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/joshbornstein.bsky.social">@joshbornstein</a>
Guest: Skye Predavec, Researcher, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/skyelark.bsky.social">@skyelark</a>
Host: Ebony Bennett, Deputy Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/ebonybennett.bsky.social">@ebonybennett</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/report/break-up-the-big-four/">Break up the Big Four</a> by Josh Bornstein, Skye Predavec and Anara Watson, the Australia Institute (August 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/260721-the-kpmg-scandal-we-have-seen-this-show-before">The KPMG scandal: We have seen this show before</a> by Josh Bornstein, The Point (July 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.

After years of scandals, it’s time to break up Australia’s ‘big four’ consultancy firms.

Break up the 'big four': fixing Australia's scandal-plagued consulting sector

Housing becoming more affordable

National Construction Code

Situation for renters

Migration is not causing the housing crisis

Real wages are falling

Housing solutions

Tax gas exports, pay for public housing

The government took on housing investor tax concessions to bring prices down, but more action is needed to address the rental affordability crisis.

On this episode of Follow the Money, Maiy Azize and Matt Grudnoff join Ebony Bennett to discuss how the government’s changes to capital gains tax and negative gearing are allowing more first-homebuyers to enter the market, the data revealing that migration isn’t the cause of the housing crisis, and the dire situation facing Australian renters.

This episode was recorded on Tuesday 25 August.

More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.

Use the code ‘FOOLME’ on a four-edition Vantage Point subscription to receive a free copy of Richard’s book, Econobabble.

Guest: Maiy Azize, Chair, Everybody’s Home & Deputy Director, Anglicare Australia // @maiyazize

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

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

Show notes:

Priced Out 2026, Everybody’s Home (August 2026)

The Coalition’s answer to the housing crisis is a race to the bottom by Maiy Azize, The Point (August 2026)

House prices are cooling, exposing a stubborn political narrative for what it is by Maiy Azize, The Point (July 2026)

No, the housing tax changes won’t push up rents by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (August 2026)

It could take until 2037 to recover from Australia’s real wage collapse by Greg Jericho, The Point (August 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 government took on housing investor tax concessions to bring prices down, but more action is needed to address the rental affordability crisis.
On this episode of Follow the Money, Maiy Azize and Matt Grudnoff join Ebony Bennett to discuss how the government&rsquo;s changes to capital gains tax and negative gearing are allowing more first-homebuyers to enter the market, the data revealing that migration isn&rsquo;t the cause of the housing crisis, and the dire situation facing Australian renters.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday 25 August.
<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, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.
Use the code &lsquo;FOOLME&rsquo; on <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">a four-edition Vantage Point subscription</a> to receive a free copy of Richard&rsquo;s book, Econobabble.
Guest: Maiy Azize, Chair, Everybody&rsquo;s Home &amp; Deputy Director, Anglicare Australia // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/maiyazize.bsky.social">@maiyazize</a>
Guest: Matt Grunoff, 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://everybodyshome.com.au/rent-hikes-costing-renters-weeks-of-work-a-year/">Priced Out 2026</a>, Everybody&rsquo;s Home (August 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/260819-the-coalitions-answer-to-the-housing-crisis-is-a-race-to-the-bottom">The Coalition&rsquo;s answer to the housing crisis is a race to the bottom</a> by Maiy Azize, The Point (August 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/opinions/260728-house-prices-are-cooling-exposing-a-stubborn-political-narrative-for-what-it-is">House prices are cooling, exposing a stubborn political narrative for what it is</a> by Maiy Azize, The Point (July 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/off-the-charts/260818-no-the-housing-tax-changes-wont-push-up-rents">No, the housing tax changes won&rsquo;t push up rents</a> by Matt Grudnoff, The Point (August 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/off-the-charts/260825-it-could-take-until-2037-to-recover-from-australias-real-wage-collapse">It could take until 2037 to recover from Australia&rsquo;s real wage collapse</a> by Greg Jericho, The Point (August 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 government took on housing investor tax concessions to bring prices down, but more action is needed to address the rental affordability crisis.

The housing crisis is far from over

Big Gas' "confidence trick"

Economies don't have backbones

The role of governments

Criticisms and excuses

Australia's big opportunity to tax gas

Australians have been dudded by the gas industry. It’s past time governments admitted it.

Dr Richard Denniss, Australia Institute co-CEO and author of More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia, joins Ebony Bennett to discuss why Australia gives away gas to multinational corporations and why similarly dud deals could happen with Big Tech and other industries if we don’t learn lessons from the past.

This episode was recorded on Tuesday 18 August.

More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.

Use the code ‘FOOLME’ on a four-edition Vantage Point subscription to receive a free copy of Richard’s book, Econobabble.

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

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

Show notes:

Australia’s gas giveaway, the Australia Institute

David Pocock, Greens call for investigation into $1.5 billion Middle Arm investment 'shrouded in secrecy' by Roxanne Fitzgerald, ABC News (August 2024)

What’s the Point? with Richard Denniss, the Australia Institute

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.

Australians have been dudded by the gas industry. It&rsquo;s past time governments admitted it.
Dr Richard Denniss, Australia Institute co-CEO and author of <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/more-fool-me-vantage-point-issue-6">More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia</a>, joins Ebony Bennett to discuss why Australia gives away gas to multinational corporations and why similarly dud deals could happen with Big Tech and other industries if we don&rsquo;t learn lessons from the past.
This episode was recorded on Tuesday 18 August.
<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, the latest edition in the Vantage Point series, is available now.
Use the code &lsquo;FOOLME&rsquo; on <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">a four-edition Vantage Point subscription</a> to receive a free copy of Richard&rsquo;s book, Econobabble.
Guest: Richard Denniss, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/richarddenniss.bsky.social">@richarddenniss</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://gas.australiainstitute.org.au/">Australia&rsquo;s gas giveaway</a>, the Australia Institute
<a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-08-22/middle-arm-industrial-precinct-nt-senate-inquiry-report-released/104250650">David Pocock, Greens call for investigation into $1.5 billion Middle Arm investment 'shrouded in secrecy'</a> by Roxanne Fitzgerald, ABC News (August 2024)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/news/category/podcasts/whats-the-point/">What&rsquo;s the Point? with Richard Denniss</a>, the Australia Institute
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.

Australians have been dudded by the gas industry. It’s past time governments admitted it.

How the gas industry tricked Australia with Richard Denniss

The state of Australian politics

Gambling reforms

Climate policy & making polluters pay

The federal government’s response to the Murphy inquiry into online gambling harms has been “appalling”, says Andrew Wilkie MP.

Andrew Wilkie MP, Independent Member for Clark, joins the Australia Institute’s Noah Schultz-Byard to reflect on the government’s gambling reforms, making polluters pay for the damage they do to the climate, and the state of Australian politics.

This episode was recorded live as part of the Australia Institute’s webinar series on Wednesday 5 August.

If this episode raised issues for you, you can call the National Gambling Helpline on 1800 858 858 for free, professional and confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Or visit Gambling Help Online at www.gamblinghelponline.org.au.

If you or anyone you know needs help, you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or online at www.lifeline.org.au.

More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, the latest Vantage Point essay from Australia Institute Press, is available now. Use the code ‘FOOLME’ on a four-edition Vantage Point subscription to receive a free copy of Richard’s book, Econobabble.

Guest: Andrew Wilkie, Independent Member for Clark // @andrewwilkiemp

Host: Noah Schultz-Byard, Strategy Director, the Australia Institute // @noah_sbyard

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

Show notes:

National Gambling Toll, the Australia Institute

SIGN THE PETITION: Ban online gambling ads!, the Australia Institute

Australia’s gas giveaway, the Australia Institute

Online gambling “reshaping a whole generation” as government reforms fall well short, Follow the Money, the Australia Institute (May 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 federal government&rsquo;s response to the Murphy inquiry into online gambling harms has been &ldquo;appalling&rdquo;, says Andrew Wilkie MP.
Andrew Wilkie MP, Independent Member for Clark, joins the Australia Institute&rsquo;s Noah Schultz-Byard to reflect on the government&rsquo;s gambling reforms, making polluters pay for the damage they do to the climate, and the state of Australian politics.
This episode was recorded live as part of the Australia Institute&rsquo;s webinar series on Wednesday 5 August.
If this episode raised issues for you, you can call the National Gambling Helpline on&nbsp;<a href="tel:1800858858">1800 858 858</a>&nbsp;for free, professional and confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Or <a href="http://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au/">visit Gambling Help Online</a> at <a href="http://www.gamblinghelponline.org.au">www.gamblinghelponline.org.au</a>.
If you or anyone you know needs help, you can contact <a href="http://www.lifeline.org.au/">Lifeline</a>&nbsp;on 13 11 14 or online at <a href="http://www.lifeline.org.au">www.lifeline.org.au</a>.
<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, the latest Vantage Point essay from Australia Institute Press, is available now. Use the code &lsquo;FOOLME&rsquo; on <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">a four-edition Vantage Point subscription</a> to receive a free copy of Richard&rsquo;s book, Econobabble.
Guest: Andrew Wilkie, Independent Member for Clark // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/andrewwilkiemp.bsky.social">@andrewwilkiemp</a>
Host: Noah Schultz-Byard, Strategy Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://x.com/noah_sbyard">@noah_sbyard</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://gambling-toll.australiainstitute.org.au/">National Gambling Toll</a>, the Australia Institute
<a href="https://nb.australiainstitute.org.au/gambling">SIGN THE PETITION: Ban online gambling ads!</a>, the Australia Institute
<a href="https://gas.australiainstitute.org.au/">Australia&rsquo;s gas giveaway</a>, the Australia Institute
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/online-gambling-reshaping-a-whole-generation-as-government-reforms-fall-well-short/">Online gambling &ldquo;reshaping a whole generation&rdquo; as government reforms fall well short</a>, Follow the Money, the Australia Institute (May 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 federal government’s response to the Murphy inquiry into online gambling harms has been “appalling”, says Andrew Wilkie MP.

“Appalling”: Wilkie slams government’s response to gambling inquiry

Carbon credits & the Great Koala National Park

Fossil fuel phase-out

Safeguard mechanism review + final thoughts

A recent decision by the New South Wales state government is a crack in the wall of Australian climate inaction.

On this episode of Follow the Money, Leanne Minshull and Rod Campbell join Glenn Connley to discuss dodgy carbon credits, the Great Koala National Park in New South Wales, the federal government’s upcoming review of the Safeguard Mechanism, and the demise of Climate Active.

This episode was recorded Tuesday 4 August.

More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, the latest Vantage Point essay from Australia Institute Press, is available now. Use the code ‘FOOLME’ on a four-edition Vantage Point subscription to receive a free copy of Richard’s book, Econobabble.

Get your tickets for the Australia Institute’s Climate Integrity Summit 2026 at the Parliament of New South Wales on Tuesday 15 September.

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

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

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

Show notes:

Safeguarding the Fossil Fuel Industry? How Carbon Offsetting Undermines the Safeguard Mechanism by Fergus Green and Frances Medlock, the Australia Institute (June 2026)

The Safeguard Mechanism is failing miserably, Follow the Money, the Australia Institute (July 2026)

Koalas Covering for Coal? Dirty Forest Offset Plan Would Mean More Fossil Fuels, the Australia Institute (June 2026)

Here are 23 Times Carbon Offsets Were Found to be Dodgy, the Australia Institute (January 2024)

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

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

A recent decision by the New South Wales state government is a crack in the wall of Australian climate inaction.
On this episode of Follow the Money, Leanne Minshull and Rod Campbell join Glenn Connley to discuss dodgy carbon credits, the Great Koala National Park in New South Wales, the federal government&rsquo;s upcoming review of the Safeguard Mechanism, and the demise of Climate Active.
This episode was recorded Tuesday 4 August.
<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, the latest Vantage Point essay from Australia Institute Press, is available now. Use the code &lsquo;FOOLME&rsquo; on <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">a four-edition Vantage Point subscription</a> to receive a free copy of Richard&rsquo;s book, Econobabble.
<a href="https://events.humanitix.com/sydney-climate-integrity-summit-2026">Get your tickets</a> for the Australia Institute&rsquo;s Climate Integrity Summit 2026 at the Parliament of New South Wales on Tuesday 15 September.
Guest: Leanne Minshull, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/leanneminshull.bsky.social">@leanneminshull</a>
Guest: Rod Campbell, Research Director, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/rodcampbell.bsky.social">@rodcampbell</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://australiainstitute.org.au/report/safeguarding-the-fossil-fuel-industry/">Safeguarding the Fossil Fuel Industry? How Carbon Offsetting Undermines the Safeguard Mechanism</a> by Fergus Green and Frances Medlock, the Australia Institute (June 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/the-safeguard-mechanism-is-failing-miserably/">The Safeguard Mechanism is failing miserably</a>, Follow the Money, the Australia Institute (July 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/koalas-covering-for-coal-dirty-forest-offset-plan-would-mean-more-fossil-fuels/">Koalas Covering for Coal? Dirty Forest Offset Plan Would Mean More Fossil Fuels</a>, the Australia Institute (June 2026)
<a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/post/here-are-23-times-carbon-offsets-were-found-to-be-dodgy-2/">Here are 23 Times Carbon Offsets Were Found to be Dodgy</a>, the Australia Institute (January 2024)
Theme music: Pulse and Thrum; additional music by Blue Dot Sessions
We&rsquo;d love to hear your feedback on this series, so send in your questions, comments or suggestions for future episodes to <a href="mailto:podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au">podcasts@australiainstitute.org.au</a>. Subscribe to Follow the Money on&nbsp;<a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/follow-the-money/id1078781512">Apple Podcasts</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/0JOrvYNuhHOwaFuZ7PlW1d?si=e9265dc6a04d40b3">Spotify</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://pocketcasts.com/podcast/follow-the-money/2aeecbb0-b36a-0133-2e57-6dc413d6d41d">Pocket Casts</a> or wherever you get your favourite podcasts.

A recent decision by the New South Wales state government is a crack in the wall of Australian climate inaction.

Is Australian climate policy finally heading in the right direction?

Big changes in the energy market

Australia's gas exports to Asia

Renewable energy in Asia

Electric vehicles + final thoughts

Much of the world is moving away from fossil fuels, so why is Australia’s gas industry still expanding?

On this episode of Follow the Money, renewable energy entrepreneur Assaad Razzouk joins Australia Institute co-CEO Leanne Minshull to discuss how the war on Iran is accelerating the global shift away from fossil fuels and why Australia risks being left behind.

This episode was recorded Wednesday 8 July.

Pre-order More Fool Me: How the gas industry tricked Australia by Richard Denniss, the latest Vantage Point essay from Australia Institute Press. Use the code ‘FOOLME’ on a four-edition Vantage Point subscription to receive a free copy of Richard’s book, Econobabble.

Guest: Assaad Razzouk, renewable energy entrepreneur and host of The Angry Clean Energy Guy podcast // @assaadrazzouk

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

Show notes:

The Angry Clean Energy Guy with Assaad Razzouk

Australia's Gas Giveaway, the Australia Institute

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.

Much of the world is moving away from fossil fuels, so why is Australia&rsquo;s gas industry still expanding?
On this episode of Follow the Money, renewable energy entrepreneur Assaad Razzouk joins Australia Institute co-CEO Leanne Minshull to discuss how the war on Iran is accelerating the global shift away from fossil fuels and why Australia risks being left behind.
This episode was recorded Wednesday 8 July.
Pre-order <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, the latest Vantage Point essay from Australia Institute Press. Use the code &lsquo;FOOLME&rsquo; on <a href="https://australiainstitute.org.au/store/vantage-point-subscription">a four-edition Vantage Point subscription</a> to receive a free copy of Richard&rsquo;s book, Econobabble.
Guest: Assaad Razzouk, renewable energy entrepreneur and host of The Angry Clean Energy Guy podcast // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/assaadrazzouk.bsky.social">@assaadrazzouk</a>
Host: Leanne Minshull, co-Chief Executive Officer, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/leanneminshull.bsky.social">@leanneminshull</a>
Show notes:
<a href="https://theangrycleanenergyguy.com/">The Angry Clean Energy Guy</a> with Assaad Razzouk
<a href="https://gas.australiainstitute.org.au/">Australia's Gas Giveaway</a>, the Australia Institute
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.

Much of the world is moving away from fossil fuels, so why is Australia’s gas industry still expanding?

Is the fossil fuel industry facing an “imminent extinction event”?

World Cup, Iran, Canada tariffs

The midterms & Trump's election claims

SAVE America Act

Damage to institutions of US democracy

Australian views of the US

Is the Australian government prepared?

No one knows what’ll happen at the November midterms or the next presidential election. Is the Australian government prepared for the worst-case scenario?

On this episode of Follow the Money, Dr Emma Shortis joins Glenn Connley to discuss the upcoming midterm elections in the United States, how the Trump administration has been chipping away at the guardrails of American democracy, and whether the Australian government is prepared for the possibility of disputed elections in its major alliance partner.

This episode was recorded Tuesday 21 July.

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

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

Show notes:

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

Trump administration chips away at independent media, faith in democracy, After America, the Australia Institute (July 2026)

Christopher Pyne declares AUKUS 'unstoppable', and says Parliament shouldn't vote on it, The Point (July 2026)

Trump’s tragedy: the US becomes an autocracy and the presidency, a dictatorship by Emma Shortis, The Conversation (October 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.

No one knows what&rsquo;ll happen at the November midterms or the next presidential election. Is the Australian government prepared for the worst-case scenario?
On this episode of Follow the Money, Dr Emma Shortis joins Glenn Connley to discuss the upcoming midterm elections in the United States, how the Trump administration has been chipping away at the guardrails of American democracy, and whether the Australian government is prepared for the possibility of disputed elections in its major alliance partner.
This episode was recorded Tuesday 21 July.
Guest: Emma Shortis, Director, International &amp; Security Affairs, the Australia Institute // <a href="https://bsky.app/profile/emmashortis.bsky.social">@emmashortis</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://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/trump-administration-chips-away-at-independent-media-faith-in-democracy/">Trump administration chips away at independent media, faith in democracy</a>, After America, the Australia Institute (July 2026)
<a href="https://thepoint.com.au/new/260717-christopher-pyne-declares-aukus-unstoppable-and-says-parliament-shouldnt-vote-on-it">Christopher Pyne declares AUKUS 'unstoppable', and says Parliament shouldn't vote on it</a>, The Point (July 2026)
<a href="https://theconversation.com/trumps-tragedy-the-us-becomes-an-autocracy-and-the-presidency-a-dictatorship-266675">Trump&rsquo;s tragedy: the US becomes an autocracy and the presidency, a&nbsp;dictatorship</a> by Emma Shortis, The Conversation (October 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.

No one knows what’ll happen at the November midterms or the next presidential election. Is the Australian government prepared for the worst-case scenario?

As American democracy faces huge tests, is Australia prepared for the worst?

Economics and politics explained in plain English

Economics and politics explained in plain English

Follow The Money

Economics, politics and policy explained in plain English.

Economics, politics and policy explained in plain English.

Follow The Money

Social links:

Follow the podcast:

437 clip(s)