NGV International opens its doors tomorrow for teenagers to explore the gallery after-hours during its NGV Teens: Art Party.  Earl Grey producer Samantha Fremont speaks to Ushna Mehmood — among the teenagers helping to shape events like these. Find out more about the NGV event: https://www.ngv.vic.gov.au/teens/ngv-teens-art-party/ On The Beat brings you compelling interviews with news-makers and culture-shapers.  Plus, SYN Media reporters cover local stories meaningful to young people in Melbourne/Naarm. On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Some Naarm/Melbourne gamers’ Super Smash Bros fights have been taken to the next level by a band providing a dramatic live score.  Player One producer Zack Goutzoulas spoke to keyboardist Ainsley Williams about performing ’Super Smash Bros Live’. Player One is SYN's flagship program covering gaming culture.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Player One SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Melbourne's Finders Keepers Market is returning for its 15th year - showcasing local fashion and food.  Sam Deshayes reports sustainable practices are a large focus for several stallholders. On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

As this broadcast went to air, volunteers at this station were scrambling to save it.  SYN Media was in the middle of a marathon 24 hours of live broadcasting - raising awareness for an emergency fundraiser which had raised more than $36k at the time of broadcast. The station’s staff and board say its future hinges on this fundraiser’s success.  That’s because after celebrating 20 years on air, they say SYN may close in just six weeks. 'What Happened' is an extensive — and, at-times, confronting — account of a difficult week.  In this special report, you’ll hear from current and former volunteers, staff and board members. SYN Media news editor Loughlin Patrick spoke to them on and off the record about when key information was learned and who made key decisions.  Because for many, there is only one question: what happened? Head to syn.org.au/whathappened to read this report. Visit givenow.com.au/savesyn to learn more about the fundraiser.

A Melbourne university is trialling a class to teach people seeking a music career about the industry’s environmental impact.  Green Music Australia is co-delivering the new program with JMC Academy.  SYN Media's Loughlin Patrick spoke to its CEO Berish Bilander about the industry's true impact and how it can change. On The Beat brings you compelling interviews with news-makers and culture-shapers.  Plus, SYN Media reporters cover local stories meaningful to young people in Melbourne/Naarm. On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Sarah Davenport, Elizabeth Fouldes, Dom Niere and Sam Deshayes bring you the stories they've been following around Melbourne the country.  This week: The state government has been urged to support pill testing by a second coroner this year, as Queensland moves to become the first state to roll out the service at music festivals. The federal government’s Housing Future Fund has passed the senate after Labor reached a deal with the Greens after months of negotiations. A first of its kind hub for Melbourne’s gig workers has opened in the CBD to provide amenities for a growing cohort of workers without an office. Aspiring high school teachers will soon study for free under a state government initiative after a rally outside Parliament House last week. Victorian series 'Neighbours' returns to screens on Monday, but there’s trouble for interstate productions with funding cuts in New South Wales and a pay dispute in Queensland. And in sport: Kyra Cooney-Cross has become the latest Matildas player to sign with an overseas football club, making a deadline day deal to play for Arsenal in Europe’s Women’s Super League. On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

It's up for debate in the media - but for AP Pobjoy, it's personal.  The trans director brings the stories of nine transgender high schoolers to the forefront in 'Unerased,' an online documentary series aiming to empower these young people to tell their own stories.  They sat down with SYN Media's Elizabeth Fouldes and Loughlin Patrick at the series' Melbourne premiere event to discuss how it came together behind the scenes. Keep up with the series @minus18youth on TikTok and Instagram. The Naughty Rude Show is SYN Media's flagship sex and relationships program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'The Naughty Rude Show SYN.' On The Beat brings you compelling interviews with news-makers and culture-shapers.  Plus, SYN Media reporters cover local stories meaningful to young people in Melbourne/Naarm.

Australian actor, writer and director Shaun-Anthony Robinson premieres 'Surviving Sunset' as part of the Melbourne Documentary Film Festival on Sunday.  His film covers the brutal world of Hollywood and the actors trying to 'make it' - now amid tense strikes in the U.S.  Panorama's Declan Evans asked Robinson his own experiences in the Australian and U.S. film industries, what it was like to make the film, and about the current industry strikes. Surviving Sunset premieres on Sunday at Cinema Nova; head to its website for tickets. Panorama is SYN's flagship local news, entertainment and science program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Panorama SYN.' On The Beat brings you compelling interviews with news-makers and culture-shapers.  Plus, SYN Media reporters cover local stories meaningful to young people in Melbourne/Naarm.

Award-winning theatre-maker Candace Miles is a co-producer of 'Garage Girls' - exploring the life of trailblazing female mechanic Alice Anderson.  The local production takes audiences back to 1920s Melbourne to experience Australia's first all-girl garage.  SYN Media’s Mia Ranalletta asked about the real history behind the show, what it was like to produce, and why the story is meaningful to Miles. Garage Girls' current run is sold out, but you visit La Mama Theatre's website to access a livestream or follow Three Birds Theatre for updates on a 2024 Victorian tour. If this content raises concerns for you, help is available.  You can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.  In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000). Panorama is SYN's flagship local news, entertainment and science program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Panorama SYN.' On The Beat brings you compelling interviews with news-makers and culture-shapers.  Plus, SYN Media reporters cover local stories meaningful to young people in Melbourne/Naarm.

It’s one of the most confronting challenges imaginable for a child and their family: facing the onset of a life-limiting condition.  Loughlin Patrick reports a national plan aims to break down barriers to care – if it can get the support it needs to keep up advocates’ momentum. If this story impacted you, call Griefline on 1300 845 745 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.  In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000). On The Beat brings you compelling interviews with news-makers and culture-shapers.  Plus, SYN Media reporters cover local stories meaningful to young people in Melbourne/Naarm.

Internationally-acclaimed artist Benjamin Knock brings findings from three months in Iceland to Melbourne in 'Terra Therma' this week.  Knock captured footage of the country's changing landscape and cracking glaciers to develop the exhibition about the impacts of climate change.  SYN Media's Molly Inglis asked about the challenges Knock faced on his expedition, how he brought it all together, and the role art plays in science communication. 'Terra Therma' is open at QV's No Vacancy gallery until Sunday, 23 July 2023. On The Beat brings you compelling interviews with news-makers and culture-shapers.  Plus, SYN Media reporters cover local stories meaningful to young people in Melbourne/Naarm. On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

The RACGP has called for greater GP involvement in ADHD diagnosis and treatment in a submission to the federal government today.  Doctor Bindiya Sethi is the co-chair of its Victorian branch, and says there are currently many barriers to getting appropriate care.  SYN Media's Elizabeth Fouldes asked Dr Sethi what the RACGP wants to change, what the public should be aware of, and if the group is confident they have the government's ear. Represent is SYN's flagship federal and state political analysis program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Represent SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Melbourne/Naarm-based author Danielle Scrimshaw is a historian researching queer women’s narratives in Australian history.  Her debut book 'She And Her Pretty Friend' explores the stories of convicts, a pastoralist, a doctor and the owners of Melbourne’s first female-only gym.  She spoke to Mia Ranalletta about the challenges of writing as a newly ‘out’ queer person. Keep up with Scrimshaw's work @dani_delivers on Instagram and read 'She And Her Pretty Friend' where you get your books. Loud + Queer is the voice of Melbourne/Naarm's queer culture shapers and change makers.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Loud + Queer SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Do young people have a voice in politics?  Panorama's Tayla Oates put that question to Greens MP for Brunswick Doctor Tim Read after the release of the Life Patterns project, which found young people increasingly feel they are denied a seat at the table. Panorama is SYN's flagship local news, entertainment and science program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Panorama SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Samantha Cockfield is responsible for the TAC’s road safety strategy - spanning roads, the cars on them and the people who drive them.  She spoke to Loughlin Patrick about the TAC's extension of a key regional partnership, which comes amid a surge in driver deaths. Panorama is SYN's flagship local news, entertainment and science program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Panorama SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Mental health support service Lifeline has set up shop in Western Melbourne after a surge in demand from people in the region.  Loughlin Patrick reports the first-of-its-kind partnership with Victoria University tackles young people’s growing concerns – and Lifeline’s own stretched capacity. If this story impacted you, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 – and one of its Western Melbourne volunteers may pick up your call.  In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000). On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Hawthorn MP and leader of the Victorian Liberal Party John Pesutto took questions from Represent reporters Bridie Golding, Nyah Barnes and Freddie Moffat in a wide-ranging interview covering the party's priorities, Pesutto's handling of Moira Deeming's suspension and its position on the federal Voice to Parliament referendum. Represent is SYN's flagship federal and state political analysis program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Represent SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Melbourne/Naarm-based mental health advocate and motivational speaker Brad Guy provides education on PTSD and rehabilitation.  His new book 'Freefall' chronicles his journey of survival following a skydiving accident which changed Guy's life 10 years ago.  He spoke to Loughlin Patrick about his strategies to manage trauma and experience as an openly gay radio host in regional Victoria. Keep up with Brad Guy's work @bradjguy on Instagram and read 'Freefall' where you get your books.  If this conversation raises issues for you, call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.  In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000). Loud + Queer is the voice of Melbourne/Naarm's queer culture shapers and change makers.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Loud + Queer SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

A new Quit campaign highlighting the risks of vaping is being launched today alongside new Cancer Council Victoria research.  Cancer Council Victoria CEO Todd Harper AM said the issue's urgency makes the campaign more relevant than ever, and spoke to Panorama's Declan Evans about the initiative. Panorama is SYN's flagship local news, entertainment and science program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Panorama SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Western Australian premier Mark McGowan has resigned after leading the state through the onset of the Covid pandemic - and leading his party to a decisive election victory.  Monash University researcher Blair Williams spoke to Represent's Bridie Golding and Freddie Moffat about McGowan's enduring - and slightly horny - political legacy. Represent is SYN's flagship federal and state political analysis program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Represent SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Sarah Davenport and Elizabeth Fouldes bring you SYN Media's weekly wrap of the biggest stories covered by the news and current affairs team.  Declan Evans, Bridie Golding, Sura Mishra, Freddie Moffat, Ruby Littler, Tayla Oates, Nick Sarlos-Welsh and Loughlin Patrick report. SYN general manager Ruby Smith has launched the station's first 'Radiothon' pledge drive in over a decade - aiming to raise $50 thousand in three weeks. Grocery giant Woolworths will take over delivery service Milkrun in a deal the Australian Financial Review reports is worth around 10 million dollars. Professor Lucas Walsh has released a new report into food insecurity among international students; he shares his takeaways from this week's state budget. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has attended this week’s G7 summit in Japan as a guest, after U.S. President Joe Biden cancelled a Quad alliance meeting. Cerise Howard has been named as the new program director for the Melbourne Queer Film Festival; she aims to showcase the history of queer film culture. Jetstar has tightened up its check-in and boarding rules in a bid to restore punctuality to its beleaguered flight schedules - giving its passengers shorter windows. Ben Bjarnesen marks the fourth LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day - founded by his organisation in a bid to improve reporting and policing for those impacted. Prominent ABC journalist Stan Grant is on 8 weeks leave after facing online abuse and threats against his family; a man has been charged over online threats to him. The federal government has confirmed it will move forward with regulations on 'Buy Now, Pay Later' services after the treasury found they contribute to financial harm. Doctor Quentin Maire shares new research showing many young people still feel hopeless after developing these feelings during the worst of the pandemic. A freshly-discovered fossil in South Africa has shown an ancient species of predator migrated across continents while active - after last being seen in Russia. A report into New South Wales policing incidents shows recommendations were made about mental health callouts before the death of a 95-year-old dementia patient. If this broadcast raised concerns for you, call 1800 RESPECT - the national sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line - on 1800 737 732.  Or, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.  In an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000). On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Brisbane/Meanjin-based advocate Ben Bjarnesen marks the fourth LGBTQ Domestic Violence Awareness Day today - launched by his foundation in 2020.  Bjarnesen also coordinates the Queensland Police Service LGBTI Liason Officer program.  He spoke to Loughlin Patrick about how he's driving change to ensure queer people impacted by domestic violence are #SeenAndBelieved. Keep up with Bjarnesen's work @benbjarnesen and @lgbtq.dvafoundation on Instagram. If this conversation raises issues for you, call 1800 RESPECT - the national sexual assault, family and domestic violence counselling line - on 1800 737 732. Loud + Queer is the voice of Melbourne/Naarm's queer culture shapers and change makers.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Loud + Queer SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Melbourne/Naarm-based non-binary trans woman Cerise Howard has been announced as the Melbourne Queer Film Festival's new program director.  The festival's upcoming November program will be its 33rd edition.  Howard tells Nick Sarlos-Welsh it's important to showcase queer community's storied cultural history through the festival. Keep up with the Melbourne Queer Film Festival @melbqueerfilmfest on Instagram. Loud + Queer is the voice of Melbourne/Naarm's queer culture shapers and change makers.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Loud + Queer SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

SYN Media is asking its community to #PayForYourSYNs in its first fundraising campaign in more than 10 years.  News producer Loughlin Patrick spoke to SYN general manager Ruby Smith about what prompted the move - and if the station's in trouble. Panorama is SYN's flagship local news, entertainment and science program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Panorama SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

New University of Melbourne research has revealed feelings of hopelessness young people developed during the pandemic are lingering.  Panorama's Tayla Oates spoke to Doctor Quentin Maire about what exacerbated the uncertainty of being young in the 2020s. Panorama is SYN's flagship local news, entertainment and science program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Panorama SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Monash University has found 48 per cent of the international students it surveyed have experienced food insecurity - with several skipping meals when too busy with work or study.  Represent's Bridie Golding and Freddie Moffat spoke to Professor Lucas Walsh about those findings, and what young people are seeking from the Victorian Government's latest state budget. Represent is SYN's flagship federal and state political analysis program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Represent SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Daniel M. Lavery's advice has been read by millions during his turn as Slate's agony aunt at the helm of its Dear Prudence column.  He's now in Melbourne to give people a peek behind the scenes with his namesake book.  SYN Media's Loughlin Patrick spoke to Lavery about how to give good advice - and how he put his identity into the column. Follow Lavery @daniel_m_lavery on Instagram and find 'Dear Prudence' where you get your books. Art Smitten is SYN's guide to Melbourne/Naarm's arts, culture, and entertainment.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search ‘Art Smitten SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Sam Deshayes and Mia Ranalletta bring you SYN Media's weekly wrap of the biggest stories covered by the news and current affairs team.  Elizabeth Fouldes, Bridie Golding, Tess McCracken, Sura Mishra, Freddie Moffat, Ruby Littler, Tayla Oates, Nick Sarlos-Welsh, Vince Trease and Loughlin Patrick report. Gene Bawden is a researcher with ‘Consenting Cities’ organisers XYX Lab, and tells SYN Media urban design choices can contribute to gendered violence risk factors. The state government has awarded a new contract to a firm set to overhaul the Myki public transport ticketing system - besieged by technical faults and cost overruns. International students will face higher visa fees and stricter work requirements as part of changes in the federal budget to strengthen the integrity of the migration system. Tasmania’s Liberal state government has been thrown into a minority after two MPs resigned from the party this week, taking aim at a proposed $700 million stadium. Melbourne looked a little more colourful this week as queer advocates marked an annual day of advocacy, but it comes amid a fraught time for the local community. CarSales editor Terry Martin speaks to SYN Media about what the federal government's National Electric Vehicle Strategy means for Australian consumers. Gambling advertising has come under the microscope as politicians from both major federal parties took aim at the industry - but has the Prime Minister been wedged? Apple has expanded its satellite emergency calling feature to Australia and New Zealand this week - but only to users of its newest devices, who'll need to pay up. Google has unveiled a new language model using machine learning alongside other hardware at its annual flagship showcase, set to be deployed across its products. And, research published this week may finally settle a long-standing debate about which sea creature is the world’s oldest animal; was it the sea sponge or comb jelly? On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

The federal government’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy aims to boost demand for and access to the often pricey cars in Australia.  Terry Martin is the editor for secondhand resale platform CarSales.  He spoke to Panorama's Vince Trease about what this strategy means for Australian consumers. Panorama is SYN's flagship local news, entertainment and science program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Panorama SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Vi Truong and Nick Sarlos-Welsh bring you SYN Media's weekly wrap of the biggest stories covered by the news and current affairs team.  Nyah Barnes, Declan Evans, Elizabeth Fouldes, Sura Mishra, Freddie Moffat, Ruby Littler, Tayla Oates, Lizzie Thompson, Vince Trease and Loughlin Patrick report. Researcher Dr Debajyoti Charkrabarty says Australia’s most marginalised people need federal government support and tells SYN Media what support is expected. The Albanese Government’s first May budget takes on cost of living and the deficit, with a $14.6 billion relief package and an expected $4.2 billion surplus reported. The budget’s cost of living package included a long-awaited proposal to expand access to the Single Parent Payment, lifting the cut-off from 8-years-old to 14. The budget also focused on energy, with the federal government announcing a $2 billion investment in green hydrogen production as it chases its net-zero targets. Warren Mundine and Jacinta Price have merged their separate campaigns against the voice to parliament as the referendum nears and the 'Yes' campaign strengthens. The state Liberal party has voted to expel MP Moira Deeming after she issued a defamation concerns notice to leader John Pesutto about her March suspension. Author Ronnie Scott is fresh from last weekend’s Melbourne Writers’ Festival, and tells SYN Media about queer representation and access to Australian publishing. King Charles and his Queen-Consort Camilla were crowned in the U.K. over the weekend in a scaled back ceremony, as Australians reflect on the monarchy's role. New reporting from Core Logic shows the rental crisis is worsening as prices continue to outpace wages, with Melbourne no longer Australia’s most affordable city to rent in. Missing Tasmanian teenager Shyanne-Lee Tatnell is yet to be found after disappearing two weeks ago, with her Launceston community still searching. A group of researchers have discovered evidence of microbes digesting plastic at cooler temperatures than previously thought possible - but it's not a silver bullet. Ballarat drivers will trial digital licences from July as the state government gears up to rework the system, adding real-time updates and on-the-spot verification from 2024. On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Melbourne looked a little more colourful this week as queer advocates marked an annual day of advocacy.  But Nick Sarlos-Welsh reports it came amid a fraught time for the local community this year. If this story impacted you, call Rainbow Door on 1800 729 367 during the day or QLife on 1800 184 527 in the evenings.  In an emergency, always call Triple Zero. On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Melbourne/Naarm-based queer artist V released their latest album ‘Faithless’ earlier this year.  The “love letter to industrial music” involves a choir to reflect on loss, yearning and mental healthcare in Australia.  V told Mia Ranaletta the tracks on ‘Faithless’ centre the Federation Bells at the heart of the CBD. Follow V's work @vlovescats on Instagram and find 'Faithless' where you listen to music. Loud + Queer is the voice of Melbourne/Naarm's queer culture shapers and change makers.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Loud + Queer SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

The Albanese Government's first full-year federal budget is on the way as cost of living pressures continue to bite around Australia.  SYN Media's Loughlin Patrick spoke to Dr Debajyoti Chakrabarty about what choices people are facing right now - and what options are available to the federal government in the budget. Represent is SYN's flagship federal and state political analysis program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Represent SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Asyiqin Sanif and Declan Evans bring you SYN Media's weekly wrap of the biggest stories covered by the news and current affairs team.  Nyah Barnes, Taymi Brook, Isabella Coldbeck, Bridie Golding, Sura Mishra, Freddie Moffat, Lizzie Thompson, Vince Trease and Loughlin Patrick report. Researcher Niamh White on how campaigns targeting transgender people have become a concern of her queer history content study participants. The state government has announced it intends to raise the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 12 years old from late next year. Chefs have paid tribute to MasterChef judge Jock Zonfrillo, who died on the day of the cooking show’s return this week. Health Minister Mark Butler has announced a crackdown on ‘black market’ vapes amid a rise in use among young people. Senior Google computer scientist Geoffrey Hinton has quit the firm to freely discuss the risks of artificial intelligence. 7NEWS has revealed the federal government intends to announce an increase to Jobseeker payments, but only for people over 55. The James Webb Space Telescope has found water vapour near a distant planet, but where did it originate from? Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockcliff has received the AFL’s 19th licence from outgoing league boss Gillion McLachlan. The Guardian has revealed a Russian oligarch funded Premier League club, Everton, while barred from entering the U.K. Students and staff from five Melbourne universities took to the streets to protest poor working conditions in the education sector. The federal government intends to double how much medication is dispensed to Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme users at a time. Australia’s National Electric Vehicle Strategy aims to improve access as a a key part of the nation’s net-zero strategy - but how does it work? On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Melbourne/Naarm-based broadcaster Jacob Gamble produces and hosts 3CR program Queering The Air. Gamble recently visited Darwin where they covered local tensions over a queer mural for print media.  The broadcaster told SYN Media's Sammy Perryman responsible and informed reporting is paramount when engaging with the queer community, particularly amid a rise in targeted public rhetoric. Hear Queering The Air on 3CR and find Gamble's reporting @jacobagamble on X. Loud + Queer is the voice of Melbourne/Naarm's queer culture shapers and change makers.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Loud + Queer SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Adam Miller and Owen Gonsalves bring you SYN Media's weekly wrap of the biggest stories covered by the news and current affairs team.  Nyah Barnes, Isabella Chambers, Bridie Golding, Sura Mishra, Freddie Moffat and Loughlin Patrick report. Last Laugh: Comedian Sammy J bids farewell to political satire characters Great Wall: A report lambasts Australia's "broken," "unfair" migration system. Fading Voices: Support for a Voice to Parliament drops in some states. Goodbye, Possums: Barry Humphries, of Dame Edna fame, dies at 86. Growing Old: U.S. President Joe Biden launches campaign for second term. Bill Shock: Fox News' record defamation payout to Dominion Voting Systems. Close Up: Global research efforts furnish a second picture of a black hole. Last Season: Designer Tom Ford steps away from namesake fashion brand. War Footing: Once-in-a-generation review reshapes Australia's defence force. Journey's End: SpaceX starship explodes 4 minutes into maiden test flight. New Voices: Shadow cabinet reshuffle promotes anti-voice campaigners. Ramping Up: Disability Minister Bill Shorten sets sights on NDIS shakeup. On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Melbourne/Naarm-based researcher Niamh White is researching how queer history is accessed in online spaces. She's exploring how young queer women are engaging with, sharing, and creating this content across a range of social media platforms.  The researcher told SYN Media's Taymi Brook queer history has never been more accessible online, with quick TikToks, Instagram infographics and Tumblr dissertations filling previous cultural gaps.  Visit lavenderhistories.com to learn more about Niamh's continuing research. Loud + Queer is the voice of Melbourne/Naarm's queer culture shapers and change makers.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Loud + Queer SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

The Melbourne Comedy Festival is in full swing, with shows from comedians big and small taking over the city.  Sammy J is on the circuit with his show Good Hustle — a farewell to his characters satirising federal politics on ABC TV.  He’s walking away from his regular tv spot after five years.  Represent's Bridie Golding, Nyah Barnes and Freddie Moffat spoke to Sammy J about how his act has grown stronger over the course of the festival. Represent is SYN's flagship federal and state political analysis program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Represent SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Feeling hungry?  Filipino food culture is on the rise in Melbourne’s western suburbs, with second-generation immigrants introducing locals to the cuisine.  SYN Media's Loughlin Patrick spoke to reporter Mishelle Tongco about the trend and it why it's so impactful to her. Panorama is SYN's flagship local news, entertainment and science program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Panorama SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

UN Youth Australia has today named 23-year-old gender and youth advocate Imogen Kane as the country's next youth representative to the United Nations.  Panorama's Sura Mishra and Lizzie Thompson spoke exclusively to Kane about what the role entails, what she's hearing from young people - and what is was like keeping the secret from her own family! Panorama is SYN's flagship local news, entertainment and science program.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search 'Panorama SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Oliver Winn reports on developments overseas in improving access to treatment for insomnia. Always check with your doctor about what medical treatments or interventions are appropriate for you. Minds in Tune covers the latest in health and culture, promoting mental health literacy and the local arts sector.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search ‘Minds in Tune SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

Ashlynn O’Brien covers efforts to make gigs safer spaces amid Melbourne’s local music revival. Minds in Tune covers the latest in health and culture, promoting mental health literacy and the local arts sector.  Listen live on SYN 90.7FM, digital radio and online.  And stream anytime online with your preferred podcast platform; just search ‘Minds in Tune SYN.' On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.

On The Beat brings you compelling interviews with news-makers and culture-shapers.  Plus, SYN Media reporters cover local stories meaningful to young people in Melbourne/Naarm. On The Beat broadcasts from SYN Media's Melbourne/Naarm studios in the eastern Kulin nation.  SYN recognises this land is unceded and respectfully acknowledges the Wurundjeri people.