Mike speaks with Terry Barnes, former adviser in the Howard government, about two key political developments.

First, Angus Taylor has launched a sharp attack on the Albanese government, promising “one hell of a fight” in the upcoming by-election in the seat formerly held by Sussan Ley.

Meanwhile, Treasurer Jim Chalmers is gathering leading economists in Canberra for a roundtable to discuss possible tax reforms and spending restraint ahead of the May federal budget, with the Middle East conflict shaping the economic outlook.