In this Garage edition of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux dives into the growing tension between equality, government overreach, and Australia’s shifting political landscape. From historical parallels between Whitlam-era apartheid sanctions and today’s debates over race-based policies in Victoria, to reports of hospital triage favouring patients by racial category, Jeremy questions the rise of “stealth” preferential systems. He also highlights major blowouts in South Australian government projects, ongoing CFMEU corruption scandals, and bizarre national stories—from Queensland schools teaching the wrong exam topic to copper thieves disrupting train networks. Plus, a look back at important events in history, celebrity birthdays, and a preview of Friday’s show with Johnny Mack. A fast-moving commentary spanning politics, culture, and the downright strange.

• Whitlam government’s 1972 sanctions on apartheid South Africa

• Comparison to Victoria’s treaty policies described as modern “apartheid”

• Hospitals allegedly triaging patients based on race

• Discussion on the Voice referendum and claims of “getting it by stealth”

• Bob Hawke’s comments on heritage and equality

• Cuts to aged-care in-home support packages

• Government programs costing more due to profit-driven providers

• Queensland schools teaching the wrong Year 12 ancient history topic

• Rise in copper wire theft across Australia affecting trains and infrastructure

• Preview of guest Johnny Mack performing “Come What May”

• Blowouts in SA infrastructure projects including the Women’s & Children’s Hospital

• CFMEU corruption allegations and political inaction

• Nick McKenzie’s reporting and alleged home break-in

• Promotion for Rising Sun venue and Jim Elder auctions

• Historical “on this day” rundown (Republic referendum, Yeltsin, Harry Potter, etc.)

• Celebrity birthdays and notable deaths

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