A former public servant is blowing the whistle on the federal government’s handling of data.

Samuel Spencer says it is not good enough that Commonwealth Departments are using Microsoft Excel to administer $1.2 trillion budget documents, COMCAR bookings, and data collection for the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.

The CEO of Aristotle Metadata, and Adjunct Professor at the University of Canberra, joins The Issue podcast this week to discuss the recent OpenAI hack of a Medicare statistics portal, planned Australian AI standards and even has advice for ordinary Aussies on their use of AI.

A former public servant is blowing the whistle on the federal government&rsquo;s handling of data. Samuel Spencer says it is not good enough that Commonwealth Departments are using Microsoft Excel to administer $1.2 trillion budget documents, COMCAR bookings, and data collection for the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme.
The CEO of Aristotle Metadata, and Adjunct Professor at the University of Canberra, joins The Issue podcast this week to discuss the recent OpenAI hack of a Medicare statistics portal, planned Australian AI standards and even has advice for ordinary Aussies on their use of AI.

The Issue is a weekly podcast that dives deep into the world of politics and global affairs. Hosted by seasoned political reporters Tim Lester and Josh Martin, the show offers insightful analysis, sharp commentary, and thoughtful discussion on the biggest stories shaping our world today. From the halls of Parliament to international summits, The Issue covers a wide range of topics - national policy debates, geopolitical tensions, election cycles, social movements, and more. Each episode breaks down the news of the week, helping listeners make sense of complex developments and what they mean for the future. Whether you're a political junkie or just trying to stay informed, The Issue is your go-to source for clear, intelligent, and engaging political conversation.

The Issue

'National scandal': This tech expert blows the whistle, saying sensitive federal government data is vulnerable

From housing tax changes to credit card surcharges, heat is building on the Albanese government over its economic management.

Daniel Mulino's role as Financial Services Minister and Assistant Treasurer puts him in the room where critical policies are decided. What does he have to say about inflation in Australia and how the Labor government is handling it?

From housing tax changes to credit card surcharges, heat is building on the Albanese government over its economic management.
Daniel Mulino's role as Financial Services Minister and Assistant Treasurer puts him in the room where critical policies are decided.&nbsp;What does he have to say about inflation in Australia and how the Labor government is handling it?

Australia's house prices keep falling. This is why Labor thinks the panic is overblown

In this candid interview with The Issue Podcast, Liberal Senator Jonno Duniam opens up about his upcoming exit from federal parliament, sharing how the intense demands of political life impact families. As Shadow Minister for Home Affairs, he sets out his migration vision - protecting essential labour for farmers and hospitality businesses - while outlining cuts to the foreign student intake. Duniam also tackles high-stakes Coalition politics, addressing the threat Pauline Hanson’s One Nation poses to Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and his thoughts on whether Andrew Hastie has what it takes to be a future Prime Minister. He reveals his one big regret about toppling Sussan Ley. And is this really it for his political career? Or will the Tasmanian one day run for Premier of his beloved state?

In this candid interview with The Issue Podcast, Liberal Senator Jonno Duniam opens up about his upcoming exit from federal parliament, sharing how the intense demands of political life impact families. As Shadow Minister for Home Affairs, he sets out his migration vision - protecting essential labour for farmers and hospitality businesses - while outlining cuts to the foreign student intake. Duniam also tackles high-stakes Coalition politics, addressing the threat Pauline Hanson&rsquo;s One Nation poses to Opposition Leader Angus Taylor and his thoughts on whether Andrew Hastie has what it takes to be a future Prime Minister. He reveals his one big regret about toppling Sussan Ley. And is this really it for his political career? Or will the Tasmanian one day run for Premier of his beloved state?

Border Politics: The Coalition’s Migration Plan

The man who has worn many hats in Canberra, Kim Beazley, joins The Issue this week to discuss fraught US relations, security threats, and the great change in Australian politics.

Beazley discusses how significant AUKUS is, and if politics is still a "good career".

The man who has worn many hats in Canberra, Kim Beazley, joins The Issue this week to discuss fraught US relations, security threats, and the great change in Australian politics.
Beazley discusses how significant AUKUS is, and if politics is still a "good career".

'National scandal': This tech expert blows the whistle, saying sensitive federal government data is vulnerable

The Issue

Social links

Follow podcast

Recent clips