Australia, Explained

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the Russia-Ukraine conflict: what’s happened, why it’s happening and what to expect next.Bits and pieces mentioned:Maps of Russia-Ukraine border conflictVox Explained: Russia-Ukraine crisisAustralians wanting to fight in UkraineThis week, Tania recommended reading English-translated Russian news outlets (Tass and Interfax) to analyse how the conflict is being perceived in Russia. Vanessa recommended the Global Conflict Tracker to keep an eye out on other conflicts/crises happening elsewhere. If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the religious discrimination bill: what it is, why it’s controversial and why it’s important.Bits and pieces mentioned:A history of the billRead the initial drafts of the billCitipointe Christian College statementPenrith Christian School controversySchool experiences of LGBTQ+ kidsIs religion coming under attack?This week, Tania recommended an episode of our favourite SBS show, You Can’t Ask That, with transgender people. Vanessa recommended her favourite book, Sapiens by Yuval Noah Harari, which discusses the role of religion during human evolution.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We're back for 2022! In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down all the news stories that were buried by COVID over the summer.Bits and pieces mentioned:Coalition changes refugee intake and visasOur previous episodes on asylum seekers (Part 1 and Part 2)Indigenous Voice in ParliamentKurri Kurri gas plantThis week, Tania recommended an ABC article that details some health stories you might have missed; but worldwide! Vanessa recommended a website that posts slightly mundane, but actually pretty interesting articles about government decisions that you probably wouldn’t hear about otherwise. If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the housing crisis in Australia: how it started, how it’s currently going and what the future holds. We discuss housing prices, interest rates and wage growth as major areas of concern.Disclaimer — The information in this episode is for general information only. It should not be taken as professional advice from Australia, Explained. You should consider seeking independent legal, financial, taxation or other advice to check how the podcast information relates to your unique circumstances. Australia, Explained is not liable for any loss caused, whether due to negligence or otherwise arising from the use of, or reliance on, the information provided directly or indirectly, by use of this podcast.Bits and pieces mentioned:Home Ownership Census DataWhy have housing prices increased?Housing prices vs. wage growthThis week, Tania recommended different micro-investing apps such as Raiz or Spaceship that may help you invest in other asset classes besides property. Vanessa recommended an article by the ABC about the housing price boom in Queensland and how it’s affected the rental market.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we team up with Lewie from @thevirtuousvictorian  to break down what is an ICAC and how Australia manages corruption. If you don’t follow his Instagram platform… GO! THERE’S NO TIME TO WASTE!Bits and pieces mentioned:CPI IndexDark Donations episodeGladys Berejiklian storyScoMo and ICACICAC statsThis week, Tania recommended our Dark Donations episode to emphasise how important it is you listen to it. Vanessa recommended an article from The Conversation that encapsulates why we need stronger corruption regulations. Lewie recommended a list of his favourite Aussie political instagram accounts; @toiletpaperaustralia, @thebargainingcode, @conservative_liberals, @aussieleftie, @australianlaborpolitics, @slide2theleft & @sit_down_australian.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a fortnightly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode discusses sexual assault and violence against women.In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down sexual assault within the AFL: past cases, present issues and future solutions.Bits and pieces mentioned:Stephen Milne CaseJames Robinson’s protest against St Kevin’s CollegeAFL’s Respect and Responsibility PolicyNRL “no-fault stand down” policyThis week, Tania recommended an ABC Four Corners Report titled “Boys Club” about the scandals surrounding St Kevin’s College. Vanessa recommended a reading list of modern feminist texts that everyone should read!If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TW: This episode discusses eating disorders, suicide and mental illness. In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down eating disorders; what they are, how they affect Aussies and some of the common myths. We chat with Hannah from EndED, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting those suffering from eating disorders, and we discuss everything from diet culture to mental health funding.Bits and pieces mentioned:EndEDEating disorders during COVIDHistory of eating disordersPain biasEating disorders in malesThis week, Tania recommended looking at the local enterprises in your area (such as EndED) that can help educate you on eating disorders and how to help others. Vanessa recommended a podcast by Jameela Jamil called “I Weigh”, which discusses the idea of shame in a range of ways, including body image and toxic diet culture.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the possibility of war with China: will it happen and why?Bits and pieces mentioned:Taiwan and China preparing for warWhat’s happening in the South China SeaChina is ‘punishing’ AustraliaThis week, Tania recommended an ABC podcast called “China, If You’re Listening”. Vanessa recommended English language Chinese media website China Daily.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a fortnightly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our podcast turns one today! In this episode, we break down how we started, how we’re going and where we're heading.We discuss our favourite episodes, the biggest issues facing Australia right now and our hopes/concerns for the future.Thank you for supporting us over the past year. You can continue to support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - sharing this podcast with your friends! If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the hunter-gatherer myth surrounding First Nations communities, what their lives were like before colonisation and how they practised farming/land management.Bits and pieces mentioned:Bill Gammage’s quoteShaping the landscapePermanent settlements in Yuwibara landThis week, Tania recommended a map of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander countries in Australia. Learn which country you are residing on, what language they speak and some of their practices. Vanessa recommended Young Dark Emu, by Bruce Pascoe - a picture book version of Pascoe’s Dark Emu novel that is easy to read.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the conflict in Afghanistan - the history, the role we played as Australians and the future of global politics with the Taliban in charge.Bits and pieces mentioned:Vox’s summary of Afghanistan conflictThe Brereton Report about war crimes in AfghanistanRussia, China and Pakistan’s role in AfghanistanThis week, Tania recommended a video of PM Bob Hawke in 1989, emotionally responding to the Tiananmen Square protests in China and offering asylum to Chinese students. Vanessa recommended Afghanistan’s largest independent news agency, Pajhwok. It is available in English. If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam Unwin @astriidastriidastriid Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down climate change in Australia: our experiences, our responses and our future.Bits and pieces mentioned:The Paris AgreementScoMo’s comments on the IPCC reportEach country’s carbon emissionsAustralia needs to cut emissions by at least 50%Australia: Climate Action TrackerWhere do Australia’s emissions come fromWhat is the Adani mine?This week, Tania recommended a book by Elizabeth Kolbert called “The Sixth Extinction”, which explores the origins of the Anthropocene and human impact upon climate. Vanessa recommended an article from The New Yorker about preparing for the climate apocalypse.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.Audio and sound production: Liam (Instagram @astriidastriidastriid) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down conspiracy theories: what they are, why people believe in them and how they’re affecting Australians right now.Bits and pieces mentioned:The political compassThe far-right in AustraliaDr Karen Douglas on why people believe in conspiraciesSocial media as an “echo chamber”Sky News banned from YouTubeThe Dunning-Kruger effectQAnon in AustraliaThis week, Tania recommended an ABC Four Corners investigative report about Tim Stewart, a head figure of QAnon in Australia and close friend of Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Vanessa recommended a podcast by the New York Times called Rabbit Hole (Apple Podcasts, Spotify) that explores the effects of the internet in feeding conspiracy theories to its audiences.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down Dry July - what it means, why it was started and what it says about alcohol culture in Australia.Bits and pieces mentioned:Government statistics on alcohol use in First Nations communitiesHistory of alcohol in First Nations communitiesAction on alcohol in First Nations communitiesDry July - does it work?This week, Tania recommended an IGTV by SBS about Sobah Beverages and the rise of non-alcoholic alcohol products.  Vanessa recommended an episode of ABC’s “You Can’t Ask That” where normal people ask questions to alcoholics. You can watch it by signing up (for free) on ABC iView.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down our vaccine rollout - what went wrong and what is currently being done.Bits and pieces mentioned:Australian vaccine dataVaccine rollout timelineWorldwide Vaccine TrackerAstraZeneca and blood clotsThis week, Tania recommended a Conversation article by leaders at the Grattan Institute about what our rollout 2.0 could look like. Vanessa recommended an ABC article about vaccine hesitancy in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down public broadcasting in Australia, how they’re funded and what it means for news journalism.This episode acts as a “Part Two” to our very first episode we released about news media ownership in Australia (feels like years ago!). If you haven’t listened to that ep, you can do that here: Spotify, Apple Podcasts and Browser.Bits and pieces mentioned:2021 budget for public broadcastingFoxtel gets $40 million of fundingABC misses out on funding this budgetParliament paper on ABC fundingLabor pledges to reverse ABC funding cutsABC program cuts in responseThe ABC and our democracyABC runs ads on third party platformsABC 2020 Annual ReportThis week, Tania recommended an ABC podcast called Rear Vision that takes a deep dive into the historical context of key issues and debates we hear of today. Vanessa recommended an ABC iView show called “You Can’t Ask That”, where marginalised and misunderstood groups of Aussies answer viewer-submitted questions. If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we talk about the intersection between cricket and politics. Particularly, how it has and will continue to shape the Aussie identity!Bits and pieces mentioned:The 1868 Aboriginal Cricket TeamFormer Treasurer Wayne Swan on Bodyline AshesSport and ApartheidHow Steve Smith reacted to the ball tampering scandalThis week, Tania recommended an article in the Sydney Morning Herald by Waleed Aly about the ball tampering scandal. Aly discusses how sport is so ingrained in Australian national identity, it was around before we had even federated! Vanessa recommended a quick 3-min video by the ABC about the ball tampering scandal that explains why it was wrong, what the public response was and how it impacted the perception of the Australian cricket team.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TRIGGER WARNING: This episode will discuss topics that might trigger trauma, including sexual assault. Remember to put yourself first and switch the episode off if you need to.In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the allegations of sexual assault within the Federal Parliament, what happened and what's being done now.Bits and pieces mentioned:Brittany Higgins speech at Parliament HouseScoMo’s press conferenceHiggins and ScoMo have a meetingInquiry into sexual assault culture of Parliament HouseThis week, Tania recommended to talk to those around you about the issue of sexual assault, listen to others' experiences and clarify your own misconceptions. Vanessa recommended a book by Chanel Miller titled 'Know My Name', a memoir about the author's experience with sexual assault and the treatment of victims within the legal system.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram  @australiaexplainedpod. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained we dive deep into Anzac Day - the reality of the event and the debates that surround it.Bits and pieces mentioned:Ellis Ashmead Bartlett’s reports from GallipoliThe ‘history wars’ over ANZAC DayWhat do historians say about ANZAC Day?Australia’s spending on commemoration This week, Tania recommended this educational resource by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs with a range of historical sources on either side of the ANZAC legend debate. Vanessa recommended an article from The Guardian discussing the waitlist for veteran payments in Australia.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down JobKeeper - why it’s ending, how it affected Aussies and what will happen next.Bits and pieces mentioned:How JobKeeper has benefitted usJobKeeper turns into a profit maker300 ASX companies + JobKeeperHow we spent JobKeeperExamples of JobKeeper fraudThis week, Tania recommended a survey by the Australian Bureau of Statistics regarding household finances following COVID-19 lockdowns, highlighting whether payment schemes during COVID-19 left them better off or worse. Vanessa recommended an edition of the Quarterly Essay called “Dead Right” about the changes in government spending over time.If you’re new to Australia, Explained, we are a weekly news podcast dedicated to helping Aussies get on top of things Down Under. You can support us by clicking ‘Subscribe’ or ‘Follow’ on your preferred podcast app, leaving a review, and most importantly - share this podcast with your friends!Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.