Ben Fordham Live on 2GB Breakfast

In this interview, One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce discusses the possibility of a post-election partnership between One Nation and the Coalition to defeat the Albanese government. Joyce outlines the necessity of securing supply and confidence through specific policy negotiations involving immigration, climate change, and regional infrastructure. The discussion also covers One Nation's proposal to allow Australians to access 3% of their superannuation for cost-of-living relief, specifically for rent or mortgage payments. The interview concludes with Joyce addressing allegations regarding an encounter at the Canberra Casino. He denies claims of an established meeting with neo-Nazis, stating he was approached by individuals whose political views became apparent only after the interaction began, leading him to terminate the conversation.

In this episode of the Ben Fordham podcast, host James Willis covers a wide range of news stories, from a shooting incident in Sydney's northwest and rising petrol prices to debates over managing emergency services. The program features an in-depth interview with AI expert Professor Toby Walsh regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on Australia's future, job security, and national security. The episode also explores political tensions surrounding leaked plans for Sydney Metro extensions and a critique of Channel Nine's journalism following a controversial KKK interview. Additional topics include economic forecasts from the intergenerational report, police sting operations using e-bikes, and the rising trend of social media usage among baby boomers.

A heated interview between host James and New South Wales Transport Minister John Graham regarding leaked documents from the Transport Department. The discussion centers on potential new metro station locations in Sydney's west, including Marsden Park and Schofields, and whether the government has been transparent about these plans. The exchange covers the financial feasibility of expanding the metro network, the impact of rising public service wages on the state budget, and the government's commitment to current versus future infrastructure projects.

Ben Fordham critiques a recent Channel 9 news report that attempted to link One Nation leader Pauline Hanson to the Ku Klux Klan. The commentator argues that the media's decision to interview a KKK Grand Wizard in Arkansas and subsequently broadcast his unprompted endorsement of Hanson constitutes gutter journalism and a significant breach of journalistic ethics. The episode covers the rising popularity of One Nation in recent polls and examines the backlash from both the political party and social media users. Fordham concludes that providing a platform for white supremacist views to draw parallels with Australian politics is a low blow that undermines public trust in mainstream media.

James Willis hosts the Ben Fordham podcast, covering a wide range of news from tragic incidents in the Blue Mountains and Western Sydney to significant shifts in Australian politics. The episode explores declining Labor Party polling, debates over migration and fertility rates, and economic concerns regarding housing supply, inflation, and federal tax changes. The show also features discussions on medical advancements in treating CTE-related brain damage, the risks of lithium battery fires in waste management, and various international stories ranging from Ed Sheeran's tour controversy to updates on the British Royal Family.

Ben Fordham critiques the Labor Party's approach to Australia's declining fertility rate and record levels of migration. He argues that the government is using migration as a substitute for addressing the underlying economic pressures, such as rising household debt, mortgage costs, and tax burdens, which prevent Australians from having larger families. The commentary focuses on the tension between the Treasurer's view of migration as an economic necessity and the reality of middle-class financial struggles.

This episode examines a recent parliamentary economics committee hearing where Reserve Bank of Australia Governor Michelle Bullock admitted that the RBA has not run economic scenarios regarding the impact of reducing government spending. The discussion features Liberal MP Simon Kennedy, who critiques the lack of modeling on fiscal policy and argues that excessive government spending is a primary driver of the current inflation crisis. The conversation extends to the broader economic pressures facing Australian households, including potential interest rate rises, record-low fertility rates, and the impact of high migration levels on housing infrastructure.

This episode examines recent polling data revealing a significant decline in support for the Labor Party and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The latest news poll shows Labor's primary vote has dropped to 27%, marking its lowest level of core support since 2012, while One Nation leads with a 30% primary vote. The discussion explores the shifting political landscape, noting that voters are drifting from Labor toward One Nation and the Coalition. The analysis highlights economic concerns, specifically regarding mismanagement of the economy, declining living standards, and the impact of tax policies on household wealth.

An interview with Warwick Brook of De Bortley Wines regarding a unique annual wine auction held during the RSL leaders conference in Canberra. The centerpiece of the event is a massive six-litre bottle of Shiraz signed by Victoria Cross recipients, which travels between RSL clubs for twelve months at a time to raise funds for the Veterans Benevolent Fund. Since its inception nearly a decade ago, this tradition has raised over $200,000 for veterans. The episode also reveals that Ben Roberts-Smith has agreed to sign the bottle, bringing the total number of Victoria Cross signatures to six. The segment concludes with the news that the bottle has already been sold for $50,000 at the recent auction to a third-party buyer for display purposes.

Ben Fordham critiques Treasurer Jim Chalmers' opposition to One Nation's proposal to allow renters and mortgage holders to access 3% of their superannuation as cash. Fordham highlights a perceived hypocrisy, noting that political staffers in the Treasurer's own office already benefit from a similar 3% cash option under their employment agreement. The commentary further details various 'lavish perks' enjoyed by parliamentary staff, such as higher superannuation rates, extended sick leave, vehicle allowances, and significant study subsidies. Fordham argues there is a profound disconnect between the benefits provided to Canberra insiders and the financial struggles faced by average Australian families dealing with rising costs of living.

Este episódio do Ben Fordham Live aborda uma série de notícias cruciais para a Austrália, desde debates sobre as políticas migratórias e seu impacto na crise habitacional até decisões judiciais sobre discriminação no NSW Health. O programa explora temas variados, incluindo o uso de tecnologia e limites na educação parental, além de atualizações sobre segurança digital e economia local. A edição traz ainda entrevistas exclusivas, como a defesa de Brad Latham contra acusações de desvio de fundos e uma conversa com Amy Williamson sobre música e legado. Entre notícias de crimes locais, flutuações no preço dos combustíveis e homenagens culturais, o podcast oferece um panorama completo da atualidade australiana.

Ben Fordham critiques Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke's assertion that Australia's housing crisis is driven by empty bedrooms rather than record immigration levels. The episode examines the tension between the government's claim that household size trends are the primary issue and the statistical reality of net overseas migration contributing significantly to population growth. The discussion further explores the contradictions in the Minister's stance on migration needing to soften to allow housing supply to catch up, alongside an analysis of Labor's newly announced immigration policy changes, including lower migration targets and tighter visa regulations.

This episode examines the recent award presented to Health Minister Mark Butler by the Public Health Association of Australia for his contributions to reducing smoking rates. While the award recognizes efforts to tighten vaping regulations and achieve record-low daily smoking rates of 5.6%, the program presents a critical counter-perspective regarding the rise of the black market. The discussion highlights significant increases in illicit nicotine consumption, noting that 97% of vapes currently purchased in Australia are illegal. Data from the Bureau of Statistics and wastewater analysis are used to illustrate an explosion in the proportion of tobacco and nicotine sold outside the legal system, raising questions about the effectiveness of current tobacco control measures.

Ben Fordham examines the controversy surrounding new descriptions of Sir Joseph Banks at the State Library of New South Wales. The episode explores whether the library's recent addition of terms such as 'dispossession', 'invasion', and 'cultural theft' to Banks' portrait description represents a necessary contemporary lens or an editorial attempt to smear a significant historical figure. Fordham weighs the library's focus on colonial violence against Banks' scientific achievements, his recorded interactions with Aboriginal Australians, and his role as a botanist.

This episode covers a wide range of Australian and international news, beginning with reports on disrupted terror plots in Australia and political shifts within One Nation. The broadcast explores various social and legal issues, including the decline of proactive policing in New South Wales, debates over the Australian War Memorial, and the complexities of community engagement for Islamic leaders. The program also features personal stories and interviews, such as former Wallabies captain Rocky Elsi discussing his legal battle in France and Kyle Buchanan's mental health fundraising skate across Australia. Additional topics include updates on US-China relations regarding the Port of Darwin, health news regarding gas appliances and whole grains, and significant historical milestones.

Former Wallabies captain Rocky Elsom joins the studio to discuss his ongoing international legal battle following a conviction by a French court. Elsom addresses allegations of forgery and misuse of corporate assets during his tenure as president of a French rugby club, asserting that he was never notified of the trial and that financial records prove the club's prosperity under his leadership. The interview explores the impact of an active international arrest warrant on his professional reputation in Australian rugby circles and his efforts to appeal the remaining charges.

Ben Fordham discusses a heated live debate on News 24 involving columnist Justin Smith and podcast host Jamie Johnston. The confrontation arose following controversial remarks made by Pauline Hanson regarding Indigenous Australians, leading Smith to direct personal attacks at Johnston for her presence during the original podcast broadcast. The episode covers the escalation of the televised argument, the accusations of gaslighting and personal attacks, and a subsequent update from Jamie Johnston regarding an apology from Justin Smith following the incident.

This episode explores the growing controversy surrounding a proposal by the Australian War Memorial Council to increase coverage of the frontier wars within the memorial. The discussion features retired Lieutenant Colonel Peter O'Brien, co-convener of the group Defend Sacred Ground, who argues that expanding the scope to include conflicts between First Nations people and British explorers politicizes a sacred site intended to honor the Australian Defence Force. The segment highlights the support of former Prime Minister Tony Abbott for the campaign against these changes, emphasizing his view that the memorial should serve as a place of unity rather than division. O'Brien addresses the legalities of the memorial's governing Act and discusses the distinction between historical museum functions and the site's primary purpose as a shrine to fallen service members.

Este episódio aborda uma série de temas políticos e sociais na Austrália, desde as pressões sobre a política de imigração de Anthony Albanese e as controvérsias sobre o hidrogênio verde até debates sobre reformas legislativas em New South Wales e direitos de terra aborígenes. O programa também traz relatos profundamente humanos, incluindo a emocionante história de sobrevivência de Leah Stewart após um ataque de tubarão, o projeto de Jason para homenagear sua filha Jordan, e denúncias de irregularidades em serviços de cuidados para idosos e no NDIS.

In this studio interview, 2GB Breakfast host Ben discusses the survival story of Leah Stewart, a school teacher who survived a life-threatening encounter with a four-metre great white shark at Coogee Beach. The conversation covers the harrowing details of the attack, her physical recovery involving limb loss and skin grafts, and the profound psychological impact of the trauma. Leah shares her perspective on finding strength through her young daughter, August, and discusses the daily challenges of navigating life with a new physical reality. The episode also touches upon her future aspirations regarding teaching and swimming, as well as the incredible efforts of the first responders and medical professionals who saved her life.

This episode examines the political controversy surrounding a $6 million grant allocated to the Marrickville Golf Course in Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's electorate. The report highlights discrepancies regarding the timing of the announcement, noting that the Prime Minister issued a media release promising funding in April 2025, despite the official grants program not being established until September 2025. The discussion explores the conflicting accounts between the Prime Minister and Infrastructure Minister Catherine King regarding who holds decision-making power over the program. The investigation questions how funding could be promised before a program existed and whether only specific, pre-identified organisations were invited to apply for the money.

Ben Fordham critiques Energy Minister Chris Bowen regarding his shifting stance on green hydrogen. The segment compares Bowen's recent comments on ABC, where he expressed skepticism toward the hype surrounding green hydrogen, against his previous political rhetoric from 2022 that promised Australia would lead a global green hydrogen revolution. Fordham highlights the discrepancy between the Minister's past predictions of hydrogen accounting for 30% of world energy transactions and his current admission that the technology has been slower and more expensive to roll out than anticipated. The commentary focuses on political accountability and the importance of maintaining consistency in public policy messaging.

In this episode of the Ben Fordham podcast, the host covers a wide range of news stories, from political pork barrelling allegations and controversies surrounding Qantas platinum status to reports on rising fuel prices and new AI-powered seatbelt fines. The show also explores significant social issues, including the economic struggles of small businesses, racial abuse incidents on public transport, and the debate over Indigenous acknowledgements in schools. The episode features interviews and deep dives into recent tragedies and investigations, such as journalist Shari Markson's book on the Bondi terror attack and a fatal pedestrian accident in Chatswood. Additionally, the program touches on community highlights like young fundraisers, international legal battles, and historical 'on this day' facts.

In this episode of Ben Fordham Comments, host Ben Fordham examines allegations of pork barrelling against Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and the Labor Party. The discussion focuses on the Strengthening Community Safety Program, a $20 million crime grant scheme involving CCTV installations, which reportedly allocated 85% of its funding to Labor-held seats. The episode further explores criticisms from the Centre for Public Integrity regarding the Major and Local Community Infrastructure Program, alleging that a significant portion of funds was directed toward safe and competitive Labor electorates without a transparent selection process. Fordham also touches upon the Senate's establishment of an inquiry into these infrastructure grants and the Prime Minister's recent decision to decline an honorary membership at the Marrickville Golf Club.

This episode of 2GB Breakfast covers a political controversy involving One Nation leader Pauline Hanson, whose past comments describing Indigenous Australians as the most primitive race on earth have resurfaced on social media. Senator Jacinta Nampajimba-Price joins the program to discuss the implications of these remarks, addressing both the content and tone of the interview while expressing fatigue regarding racial discourse in Australia. The discussion also shifts to the economic pressures facing small businesses, with the Shadow Minister for Small Business highlighting survey data regarding cash flow struggles and business closures. Additionally, the program examines recent polling in New South Wales showing a surge in One Nation support alongside Labor, driven by cost-of-living concerns.

Ben Fordham discusses the controversy surrounding Federal Transport Minister Catherine King after she accepted lifetime platinum status from Qantas. The segment examines the implications of this gift, noting that such status typically requires significant spending and provides permanent access to premium lounges and priority upgrades. Fordham connects this development to previous decisions made by the Minister, specifically her rejection of Qatar Airways' expansion into the Australian market, which critics argue favored Qantas. The commentary explores allegations of close ties between senior Labor MPs and the airline, alongside scrutiny regarding the use of taxpayer-funded flights for earning status credits.

Este episódio do Ben Fordham Live aborda uma ampla gama de temas sociais e políticos na Austrália, desde confrontos incisivos entre Anthony Albanese e Pauline Hanson até debates sobre o impacto das telas no desenvolvimento infantil e a responsabilidade dos adultos. O programa também explora questões de segurança pública, críticas ao sistema judicial e as transformações urbanas em Sydney. A cobertura inclui ainda notícias internacionais sobre os riscos da inteligência artificial e conflitos na Ucrânia, além de tópicos locais como o mercado imobiliário, políticas de migração e iniciativas beneficentes para veteranos. O episódio encerra com curiosidades históricas e atualizações do cenário esportivo e mediático.

Ben Fordham interviews Liberal Upper House MP Rachel Merton regarding reports of frequent Indigenous acknowledgements within TAFE New South Wales classrooms. The discussion covers allegations that students are being required to participate in multiple acknowledgements of country per day, potentially up to four times, and the discomfort some students feel when asked to identify their traditional lands during online classes. Merton addresses concerns regarding political and ideological agendas in education, noting low TAFE completion rates and the lack of clarity regarding whether these practices are mandatory or optional.

New South Wales One Nation leader Mike Newman discusses the party's newly unveiled immigration policy, which proposes slashing migration by 750,000 over three years and targeting reductions in student, graduate, and temporary skilled visas. The interview explores the economic implications of visa application fees, the impact of migration on the housing market, and proposed restrictions on visa applications from specific high-risk countries. The episode also addresses recent political controversies involving Pauline Hanson's comments regarding Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's mother and the broader state of political discourse in Australia.

Ben Fordham discusses the controversial release on bail of a 17-year-old Cairns teenager with over 100 convictions and 25 bail breaches this year. The report highlights the perspectives of local crime victims who express fear and frustration following the judge's decision to grant bail despite strong evidence and an acknowledged risk of re-offending. The episode explores broader themes of youth offending and the perceived failure of the judicial system to protect the community. It features accounts from residents experiencing home invasions, armed robberies, and retail theft, alongside a comparison to similar high-frequency offenders in Sydney.

O episódio aborda o alerta emitido pelo conselho de Fairfield sobre propostas de cortes no financiamento governamental. O prefeito Frank Carboni discute as implicações da redistribuição de verbas da Grants Commission, argumentando que a transferência de recursos de áreas metropolitanas para regiões rurais pode impactar diretamente os residentes de Sydney, afetando serviços essenciais e potencialmente aumentando as taxas locais (rates). A discussão foca nas motivações políticas por trás dessas mudanças orçamentárias e nos desafios enfrentados pelos conselhos urbanos diante da pressão por habitação e migração.

O episódio aborda inicialmente o uso da plataforma Shopify pela empresa Ornota para a gestão de vestuário de ciclismo sem necessidade de conhecimentos técnicos. Em seguida, o foco muda para um protesto de moradores do Sutherland Shire contra o desenvolvimento excessivo e a construção de habitações de alta densidade. A discussão central envolve o parlamentar Simon Kennedy, que critica a falta de infraestrutura básica, como escolas, hospitais e estradas, para suportar o aumento populacional proposto. O debate toca em temas de imigração, políticas governamentais de habitação e o impacto no trânsito local.

Este episódio apresenta uma retrospectiva emocionante de 25 anos dos ataques de 11 de setembro, reunindo relatos de sobreviventes, testemunhas e memórias sobre o impacto global do evento, incluindo a solidariedade na cidade de Gander. O programa também explora as jornadas de homenagem aos tripulantes das vítimas e o lançamento de obras que detalham ataques em Bondi Beach. A programação aborda ainda o cenário político australiano, com debates sobre liberdade de expressão, censura de mídia, ameaças contra figuras públicas e protestos de veteranos contra restrições em benefícios de saúde. O episódio encerra com atualizações sobre economia, fraudes no NDIS, notícias esportivas e efemérides históricas.

Este episódio do Ben Forum Podcast presta uma homenagem aos 25 anos dos ataques de 11 de setembro de 2001. Através de relatos emocionantes de sobreviventes, socorristas e testemunhas oculares, a narrativa reconstrói a cronologia do dia, desde o sequestro dos aviadores até o colapso das Torres Gêmeas. O conteúdo explora o caos nos escritórios, as decisões críticas tomadas pelo governo americano e os atos de heroísmo e humanidade demonstrados em meio ao desastre, como o resgate de pessoas em cadeiras de rodas e a união entre policiais e bombeiros.

O episódio discute as preocupações em torno do projeto de lei de segurança online na Austrália e o potencial impacto da legislação de dever de cuidado sobre a liberdade de expressão e a imprensa. O comentarista Ben Fordham utiliza a fábula do 'menino que gritava lobo' para ilustrar a falta de confiança no Primeiro-Ministro após promessas não cumpridas. A discussão aborda tentativas de censura por parte de burocratas e políticos, incluindo o caso de uma funcionária do setor de defesa que tentou impedir o compartilhamento de depoimentos em audiências públicas. O conteúdo também destaca o aumento nas taxas de recusa de pedidos de Lei de Acesso à Informação (FOI) e a percepção de que o governo busca controlar o que os cidadãos podem ver online.

The Australian Federal Police are investigating reports of death threats directed at One Nation leader Pauline Hanson. The investigation follows the emergence of online posts, including messages from accounts calling for her assassination and expressing intentions to shoot and kill her. The report examines the potential link between political rhetoric and the escalation of violent threats on social media.

This episode of the Ben Fordham Podcast covers a wide range of news, beginning with the heroic actions of Detective Senior Constable Cesar Baratza during the Bondi Beach terror attack and tributes to his bravery. The discussion moves into economic and industry concerns, including trends in the Australian property market, the collapse of the Baffler Group, and the devastating impact of Bathler Homes on the construction industry. The episode also explores political tensions involving Senator Maureen Faruqi and Andrew Hastie, alongside critiques of ABC reporting and Australia's energy policy. Additional segments feature reflections on the anniversary of September 11th, updates on international news from the UK, and a look at recent legal trials and community milestones.

O episódio inicia e termina com uma publicidade ao Banco CTT Biz, focada em profissionais liberais e artistas como a ceramista Rita. O núcleo central do conteúdo apresenta uma entrevista com o neurocirurgião Charlie Teo sobre um evento que convoca um inquérito à pandemia de COVID-19. A discussão aborda alegações de censura a médicos e especialistas, o uso de mecanismos de silenciamento por órgãos reguladores e os impactos na liberdade de expressão científica durante a crise sanitária.

A political dispute is intensifying between Liberal MP Andrew Hastie and One Nation figures Pauline Hanson and Barnaby Joyce. The conflict stems from a clip in Hanson's 'Please Explain' cartoon series that depicts Hastie being called a traitor, leading Hastie to label Hanson and Joyce as lying cowards. Hastie alleges the cartoon falsely accuses him of being a traitor to his country following his testimony against Ben Roberts-Smith. While Hanson denies ever calling him a traitor and dismisses his reaction, Hastie has indicated he is prepared to pursue legal action that could be costly for Hanson.

O episódio aborda as críticas contundentes de Paul Broad, ex-CEO do Snowy 2, ao Ministro da Energia australiano, Chris Bowen. O debate centra-se na viabilidade da transição energética e nas políticas governamentais em relação às energias renováveis e ao hidrogênio verde. Broad questiona a eficácia das estratégias de investimento em hidrogênio verde, classificando as promessas de uma superpotência de hidrogênio como um experimento falhado. O conteúdo explora o descompasso entre as metas governamentais de renováveis para 2030 e a realidade da dependência atual do carvão e do gás natural.

Este episódio do 2GB Breakfast aborda temas cruciais para a região de New South Wales, com foco nas complexas reivindicações de terras aborígenes e os impactos dos cortes de verbas federais nos conselhos municipais de Western Sydney. O programa discute as implicações econômicas do aumento da carga tributária e as mudanças na legislação de terras. A programação também explora notícias internacionais, desde desastres climáticos no Nepal até tensões diplomáticas globais, além de abordar debates sobre segurança online, o custo da educação de elite e inovações no esporte, como o novo formato da Surfing Super League.

This episode explores the intersection of climate change, international responsibility, and racial discourse in the wake of natural disasters in Nepal. The discussion begins with Nepal's foreign minister, Shashir Khanal, demanding $20 million from major global polluters to assist in rebuilding efforts following extreme flooding and landslides. He argues that since Nepal contributes less than 0.1% of global greenhouse gas emissions, larger economies must accept a shared responsibility for the climate crisis. The conversation then shifts to a critique by Australian Greens Senator Maureen Faruqi, who links climate vulnerability to racial inequality, specifically highlighting how white male billionaires remain protected while black and brown communities in the Global South suffer. The episode concludes with a counter-argument questioning the relevance of skin color to natural disasters and challenging the focus on Western billionaires when major emitters like India and China are driven by different economic actors.

An interview with New South Wales Minister for Lands and Property, Steve Camper, regarding the significant increase in Aboriginal land claims across the state. The discussion focuses on the rise of unresolved claims from 40,000 to 44,000 over three years and the government's legislative efforts to close legal loopholes that allow for the transfer of community assets like surf clubs and bowling clubs due to technical breaches in leasing documents. The episode explores the tension between the ease of lodging claims and the lengthy processing times required by the Crown Lands department. The conversation also addresses the financial implications, the potential loss of valuable community infrastructure, and the government's strategy to validate existing leases to prevent unexpected land transfers.

Joseph Dowd, founder of It's Simple Finance, discusses his recent charity tennis match against Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in Canberra. The interview covers Dowd's criticisms regarding the government's approach to capital gains tax and negative gearing, as well as his allegations of a manufactured tennis score during the event. Dowd shares his perspective on the Prime Minister's reaction to small business owners' concerns and disputes the official account of the match results.

Ben Fordham critiques the Australian government's new online safety laws proposed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The commentary examines specific provisions within the bill, such as Section 26 and Section 25C, focusing on the power granted to the Communications Minister to define harmful material. Fordham raises concerns regarding potential censorship, the lack of protections for political speech, and the significant financial penalties facing social media platforms. The episode also discusses the use of fake identities by the eSafety Commissioner and the broader implications for free speech during election cycles.

Este episódio aborda uma série de debates críticos sobre o impacto dos cortes de financiamento no NDIS e as consequências das fraudes no sistema para famílias vulneráveis. O programa explora também a pressão migratória em Sydney, investigações de corrupção política e as incertezas geradas por reivindicações de terras aborígenes em New South Wales. A análise estende-se ao setor de energia verde na Austrália, o colapso da Bathla Group e questões de segurança pública. O episódio encerra com histórias de superação, como o desafio de skate para saúde mental, além de reflexões históricas sobre eventos ocorridos em setembro.

O episódio aborda a preocupação com o aumento da criminalidade juvenil e a impunidade de adolescentes envolvidos em atos violentos. O debate foca no caso de um jovem de 15 anos que, apesar de enfrentar múltiplas acusações, não possui condenações registradas, levantando críticas sobre o sistema de sentenças brandas e a eficácia das instituições judiciais diante de criminosos endurecidos.