Ben Fordham Live on 2GB Breakfast

In this final installment of a long-form interview, Victoria Cross recipient Ben Robert Smith reflects on his personal encounter with Queen Elizabeth II at Buckingham Palace and the profound impact of her grace and stoicism. He discusses the various public roles he has undertaken following his military service, including charitable work and advocacy for veterans alongside fellow recipients like Keith Payne. Smith also addresses recent media allegations regarding his motivations for public appearances, clarifying his focus on civilian professional development and personal growth rather than personal branding. The episode concludes with a nostalgic look at his childhood in Geraldton and the enduring spirit of resilience that has defined his life from a young age.

In this interview, Australia's most decorated living soldier, Ben Robert Smith, recounts pivotal moments from his military career across East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He provides a first-hand account of the psychological and physical realities of combat, including the intense stress of hostage recovery missions in Baghdad and the complexities of peacekeeping in East Timor. The conversation delves into the specific actions that led to his Victoria Cross and his medal for gallantry. Smith describes the harrowing experience of facing enemy machine guns at Tizak and the courageous actions of his comrade, Matt Locke, during a battle at Chora Pass. The episode explores themes of duty, the impact of repeated deployments, and the profound weight of responsibility toward one's fellow soldiers.

In this interview, Ben Robert Smith discusses his ten-day period of incarceration at Silverwater prison following charges of war crimes. He provides a detailed account of the processing procedures, including his time spent in a glass suicide cell under 24-hour neon lighting and the physical challenges of maintaining fitness with limited equipment. Smith reflects on the unexpected support received from fellow inmates, his interactions with professional prison guards, and the poor quality of prison food. The conversation also touches upon his mental resilience during this period, specifically how he used a physical activity planner to maintain focus on the legal battles ahead. The episode concludes with reflections on his release and the emotional impact of reuniting with his family.

In this interview, Ben Robert Smith, a highly decorated Victoria Cross recipient facing five counts of war crime murder, recounts the dramatic circumstances surrounding his arrest at Sydney Airport. He describes the moment federal officers approached him on a flight from Brisbane, detailing the presence of his partner and teenage daughters during the incident. Smith challenges the official narrative regarding operational security, alleging that the arrest was conducted in a public, non-sterile environment for the purpose of creating a spectacle. The conversation also covers Smith's legal concerns regarding the jurisdiction of the arrest in New South Wales and its potential impact on prosecution advantages. He expresses deep regret over the emotional trauma inflicted on his children and critiques the timing of media coverage surrounding his detention. The episode provides an inside look at his perspective on the allegations and the procedural complexities of his ongoing legal battle.

In this interview on 2GB, Ben Robert Smith, Australia's most decorated living soldier, addresses the criminal charges of war crimes and murder brought against him. Smith discusses the specific allegations regarding a raid on compound Whiskey 108, including accusations of ordering the killing of an unarmed prisoner and the use of a prosthetic leg as a drinking vessel by soldiers. He defends his military conduct, asserting that all engagements were against legitimate Taliban targets and denying any involvement in the death of prisoners. The conversation also covers Smith's pursuit of Hekmatullah, the Afghan man responsible for the deaths of three Australian soldiers, and his perspective on the upcoming criminal trial. Smith expresses his intent to fight the charges in their entirety, emphasizing his belief in the principle of being innocent until proven guilty and calling for a fair jury process.

An interview with Ben Roberts-Smith regarding his high-profile defamation case and the allegations of war crimes leveled against him. The discussion covers the legal complexities of civil proceedings, the impact of closed court sessions due to national security, and the significant financial support received from Kerry Stokes for legal fees. Roberts-Smith addresses the credibility of witnesses, specifically addressing claims regarding payments made by Nine Newspapers to a witness, and reflects on the personal toll taken by judicial findings regarding his character and conduct.

In this interview on 2GB, Ben Fordham speaks with Ben Roberts-Smith, an Australian soldier and Victoria Cross recipient currently facing five counts of war crimes murder. The conversation covers the origins of the allegations against him, ranging from initial rumors of bullying to the specific accusation regarding the death of a child, which he claims was disproven in a defamation case. The discussion also delves into broader systemic issues within the Australian Defence Force and the legal landscape. Roberts-Smith addresses the Brereton Report, the implications of retrospective legislative changes regarding unlawful targets in combat, and what he describes as an uneven playing field in the legal proceedings, specifically citing disparities in funding and resources between the prosecution and the defense.

In this interview on 2GB, Ben Robert Smith, one of Australia's most decorated soldiers and a recipient of the Victoria Cross, addresses the serious allegations of war crimes and murder facing him. Speaking with Ben Fordham, Smith discusses his recent arrest, his time in jail, and the impact of the legal proceedings on his family. He denies all accusations of unlawful conduct, including the shooting of prisoners or participating in a 'cowboy culture' within the SAS. The conversation covers various aspects of his life, from his military service in Afghanistan, Iraq, Timor, and Fiji to the personal toll the trial has taken on his partner and twin daughters. Smith also addresses specific claims regarding the placement of weapons on deceased bodies for intelligence purposes and asserts that he has never broken the rules of engagement or witnessed unlawful conduct by fellow soldiers.

This episode of the Ben Fordham Podcast covers a wide range of breaking news, beginning with significant political shifts including Anthony Albanese's declining approval ratings and discussions on the rising personal attacks against politicians. The program provides updates on the critical condition of MP Helen Haynes following a targeted vehicle attack and previews an intensive interview with Ben Roberts-Smith regarding war crime allegations. The episode also explores local and international stories, from economic pressures and budget deficits to the implementation of 'Jack's Law' to combat knife crime. Additional reports cover everything from the 2027 Australian of the Year NSW nominees and a charity cycling journey for the Black Dog Institute to historical milestones and recent global events.

This episode examines Prince Harry's recent efforts to reconcile with King Charles and Prince William following his return to the UK. The discussion covers the Duke of Sussex's first interview since his return, where he expressed a desire to fix broken relationships amidst global instability, while also noting that some individuals may not be willing to work toward peace. The segment provides a critical perspective on Harry's motives, questioning the timing of his peace offering and referencing the long-standing rift caused by his departure from royal duties six years ago.

An announcement regarding an upcoming extended interview with Ben Robert Smith, a Victoria Cross recipient facing five counts of war crime murder. The conversation covers his side of the allegations involving the killings of unarmed civilians in Afghanistan, his military history, and the legal battle to clear his name. The interview explores sensitive topics including the defamation case against nine newspapers, the role of Kerry Stokes in funding his legal defense, and the testimony of fellow SAS members. Smith also discusses personal moments, such as his arrest in front of his daughters and his time spent in Silverwater Prison.

In this interview, Shadow Communications Minister Sarah Henderson discusses the recent decline in polling for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, citing economic instability and cost-of-living pressures as primary drivers. Henderson critiques the Labor government's handling of the economy, specifically addressing electricity prices, taxation, and the impact on small businesses. The conversation also covers concerns regarding digital duty of care laws and potential censorship under the eSafety Commissioner. Additionally, Henderson addresses the recent violent attack on MP Helen Haynes, expressing the distress felt within Parliament and discussing the increasing security concerns for elected officials.

The Ben Fordham podcast covers a wide range of news stories, including the serious attack on Independent MP Helen Haynes and new NSW laws designed to protect retail workers. The episode also explores the eSafety Commissioner's warnings regarding specific emojis used in 'Manosphere' communities and the rapid rise of BYD electric vehicles in the Australian market. Additional topics include updates on military technology, business insolvencies in New South Wales, and the impact of work-from-home decisions on small businesses. The show concludes with historical milestones from October 20th and various community stories ranging from local charity runs to personal triumphs.

Ben Fordham reports on an internal crisis within the Australian Greens party following allegations against Senator Jordan Steele-John. The Senator faces accusations of making inappropriate comments towards women and alleged sexual harassment, leading to an emergency meeting in Canberra. The situation has created a significant rift between Steele-John and the new Greens leader, David Shoebridge. The report highlights conflicting accounts regarding the handling of the scandal, specifically concerning whether Steele-John was pressured to take leave. Furthermore, controversy surrounds a secret party document that allegedly catalogued allegations against the Senator for years, contradicting claims made by leadership regarding their prior knowledge of the matter.

This report covers the shutdown of a free community barbecue in Queensland by local council inspectors. Marky Tyson, owner of Lakeside Quality Meats, discusses the $1,600 fine he faces due to a lack of permits for roadside dining and food service. The event, which has run for two years, serves as a gathering point for the homeless, elderly residents, and local families. The episode explores the tension between small business community initiatives and council regulations. While the organizer faces financial penalties, the incident has garnered significant social media attention and widespread support from across Australia.

Ben Fordham discusses a recent report from Australia's eSafety Commissioner regarding the 'Manosphere' and its potential influence on young men. The episode examines the government's official guide identifying specific emojis and behaviors as warning signs of toxic masculinity, including the use of red circle, fire, muscle, snake, and crown emojis. Fordham critiques the inclusion of certain lifestyle changes in the report, such as 'looksmaxing,' 'T-maxing,' and 'fibre maxing,' which involve focusing on physical appearance, testosterone levels, and dietary adjustments. The commentary explores the implications of government monitoring of online communication and social habits among teenage boys.

This episode covers a wide range of domestic and international news, headlined by an upcoming interview with Victoria Cross recipient Ben Robert Smith regarding war crime allegations. The program explores significant Australian issues, including the massive cost blowout of the Snowy 2.0 project, the removal of federal funding for the 'Ask Izzy' support service, and police operations against illegal e-bikes in Sydney. International reports include civil unrest in France and Italy, a data breach within the UK NHS, and a fatal military base fire in Canada. The episode also features discussions on national identity, debates surrounding athletes not singing the national anthem, and various local updates ranging from fire ant outbreaks to economic shifts in consumer confidence.

Ben Fordham discusses an audit uncovering errors within the Bureau of Meteorology, where investigators found duplicated temperature readings and missing observations. The audit, conducted by Tom Berger and Geoffrey Sherrington, suggests that some recorded temperatures are identical across different years, raising questions about the integrity of Australia's long-term temperature records and the effectiveness of quality control systems. The episode also covers the Bureau's response to these findings, the potential implications for net zero policies, and a decline in mentions of climate change and net zero by Labor MPs and in financial reporting.

This episode examines the recent violent riots in France, where over 2,000 arrests were made following protests regarding cost of living and school standards. The discussion explores the escalation of these protests into widespread civil unrest, including the destruction of historic landmarks and attacks on police officers. Featuring an interview with One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce, the program connects the events in France to broader debates surrounding migration and national identity in Australia. The conversation focuses on the potential risks of uncontrolled immigration, the importance of maintaining Australian cultural guardrails, and the necessity of border vigilance to prevent similar social fragmentation within Australian cities.

The episode covers an ongoing scandal within the Greens party involving Senator Jordan Steele-John. Two party insiders are calling for an independent investigation into allegations of inappropriate comments made to women, highlighting a secret document that reportedly catalogued such claims. The report explores conflicting accounts regarding when party leadership became aware of these allegations and examines the Senator's response, which includes a denial of the specific details and accusations of political factionalism. The segment also touches upon the Senator's personal disclosures regarding his polyamorous relationship status and the current dispute over whether he is taking leave from his parliamentary duties.

This episode announces an upcoming, extensive interview with Ben Robert Smith, Australia's most decorated living soldier and Victoria Cross recipient. Smith is breaking his silence to address serious allegations of war crimes involving the murder of unarmed civilians in Afghanistan, which have led to criminal charges and a significant defamation battle. The interview covers Smith's military career, from joining the Army at 18 to his service in East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He discusses the specific incidents under investigation, including raids on compounds and the deaths of Afghan men, while vehemently denying all allegations of wrongdoing.

In this episode of Ben Fordham Comments, Ben Fordham examines the Australian government's stance on importing Russian diesel amidst a domestic fuel crisis. While Donald Trump has announced a deal to secure Russian diesel to ease America's fuel shortages, Australian Energy Minister Chris Bowen and Minister Tony Burke have rejected similar options, citing sanctions related to the invasion of Ukraine. The episode explores the perceived inconsistency in Australia's trade policies, noting that the nation continues to import solar panels from China and fertiliser from Saudi Arabia despite human rights concerns. Fordham also highlights the legal loophole where Russian crude oil processed in India can enter Australia as diesel, questioning the logic behind the government's refusal to engage in direct deals.

Ben Fordham examines the Federal Government's Australian Energy Update 2026, highlighting a discrepancy between official narratives and domestic energy consumption data. The report reveals that fossil fuels still account for 90% of Australia's primary energy, with oil, coal, and gas providing nine times more energy than renewables. While coal use has declined, the episode explores how rising oil and gas consumption, alongside the decline in manufacturing energy use, may reflect industrial decline rather than a successful green transition. The discussion addresses the economic implications of closing domestic refineries and chemical plants, suggesting that reduced energy figures may stem from the offshoring of production. Fordham also notes the significant taxpayer expenditure, totaling nearly $8 billion, aimed at preventing further industrial closures in regions such as Gladstone, Mount Isa, and Bell Bay.

The Ben Fordham Podcast covers a wide range of domestic and international news, from economic shifts like the Reserve Bank's $11 billion loss and rising Australian wages to housing market concerns regarding stamp duty and migration. The episode also explores significant local stories, including a miraculous sea rescue, a security breach on an Australian Navy ship, and various community grievances involving council negligence and aged care funding. In addition to political debates surrounding digital duty of care laws and ministerial expenses, the show features interviews with experts on medical advancements in liver transplants and economic trends. The episode concludes with international updates, historical retrospectives, and lighter stories ranging from US political developments to a famous singer's praise for a Wollongong cafe.

This episode discusses political speculation regarding Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Following comments made by One Nation MP Barnaby Joyce on 2GB Drive, the segment explores claims of tension within the government, noting Chalmers' recent absence from Parliament and his visible dissatisfaction. The discussion covers the political pressures facing the Treasurer following the May budget, specifically regarding negative gearing, capital gains tax, and ATO credit card bans, while weighing Joyce's prediction that Albanese may sacrifice political allies to maintain his leadership.

This episode examines the growing backlash against the federal government's downsizing campaign, which encourages older Australians to move into smaller homes to free up housing stock for younger families. Featuring economist Leith Van Onselen, the discussion explores why high stamp duty, significant selling costs, and a lack of suitable three-bedroom housing options are preventing seniors from relocating. The conversation also addresses the broader economic pressures facing Australia, including the impact of mass migration on housing shortages, rising mortgage stress, and the potential for a full recession in the coming year.

Ben Fordham discusses allegations of financial misconduct involving the Minister for Sport and Communications, Annika Wells. The segment examines claims that taxpayer funds were used to cover $4,000 in expenses for an interstate trip to attend a friend's birthday party, which was allegedly disguised as official ministerial meetings. Fordham highlights discrepancies found via Freedom of Information requests regarding meeting records with Trade Minister Don Farrell's office and South Australian Health Minister Chris Picton. The commentary also touches upon the Minister's history of high-expenditure trips, including previous travel to Paris, Thredbo, and a $200,000 junket to New York. Additionally, the episode addresses the Minister's inability to provide guarantees against government propaganda within her proposed digital duty of care bill.

This episode of the Ben Fordham Podcast covers a wide range of domestic and international news, from political tensions regarding ATO policies and health insurance rebates to legal battles over mining and heritage protection. The host explores various crime reports in Sydney and Colombia, alongside updates on the scam economy and the expansion of Western Sydney International Airport. The program also features human interest stories, including a cross-country skateboarding journey for charity, a tribute to Slim Dusty, and historical 'on this day' facts. Additionally, the episode touches on international developments such as New York City's potential carriage ban and updates from the UK and the US.

This episode examines a controversial interview involving ACT Health Minister Dr. Marissa Patterson regarding the enforcement of laws against illicit tobacco. While other Australian jurisdictions like New South Wales, Queensland, and Victoria utilize heavy fines and closure orders to combat the black market, the presenter highlights the Minister's unexpected focus on human rights considerations when discussing the shutdown of illegal smoke shops. The discussion explores the tension between legislative enforcement and the ACT's status as a human rights jurisdiction. The episode further addresses the violent consequences of the tobacco and vape wars, including fire bombings and shootings, questioning the implications of prioritizing the rights of illicit traders amidst rising crime in the nation's capital.

This report examines the travel expenditures of Small Business Minister Anne Ali, noting that she has spent over $150,000 of taxpayer money on international trips within a 17-month period. The segment details specific costs associated with visits to Spain, Indonesia, India, Bangladesh, and the Middle East, including Bahrain, Jordan, and Qatar. The coverage highlights criticisms from Liberal leader Angus Taylor and Nationals leader Matt Canavan, who argue that the minister's frequent overseas travel occurs while small business owners face increased regulations, higher costs, and new tax burdens. The report contrasts the minister's international itinerary with domestic issues such as the inability for businesses to pay the tax office via credit card.

Ben Fordham discusses a Federal Court ruling that invalidated former Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek's decision to block the billion-dollar McPhillamy's gold mine in New South Wales. The court found that the minister acted without authority when using Indigenous heritage laws to protect land based on claims of cultural significance involving a blue banded bee dreaming story. The investigation highlights discrepancies between the claims made by an individual identifying as a Wiradjuri elder and the testimonies of local Wiradjuri elders and Aboriginal Land Councils.

In this episode of the Ben Fordham Podcast, the host explores a wide range of domestic and international news, from Australia's shifting energy landscape and controversial government funding for media groups to debates over digital censorship and economic forecasts. The program also covers significant legal developments, including a Toyota class action settlement and various court challenges in New South Wales. Beyond politics and economics, the episode features human interest stories ranging from medical breakthroughs in prosthetic technology to a dramatic incident involving a teenager in Guatemala. The show concludes with listener interactions, historical 'on this day' facts, and updates on local community efforts.

This episode explores the controversy surrounding Australia's proposed digital duty of care laws, which Communications Minister Annika Wells intends to bring before Parliament. The legislation aims to mandate that tech giants prevent foreseeable harms online, but critics, including free speech advocate Michael Schellenberger, argue the bill is a tool for political censorship and government control over digital discourse. The discussion covers concerns regarding the regulation of algorithms, the potential for government-run fake accounts, and the broader implications for free speech in an era of shifting social media ownership.

This episode explores the unintended consequences of the card surcharge ban on Australian businesses and families. Featuring an interview with Rachel Debeck, CEO of FlexiSchools, the discussion details how the inability to charge separate fees for card payments has forced the cashless uniform and canteen service to implement a six-cent increase per online order and a $10 minimum top-up amount for digital wallets. The conversation highlights the operational challenges faced by businesses attempting to absorb processing costs while maintaining transparency for parents and schools.

Ben Fordham critiques the federal government's decision to award over $300,000 in taxpayer funding to the OnePath Network, an Islamic media organisation. The report alleges that the funds were distributed under Tony Burke's Independent Multicultural Media Transformation and Sustainability Programme despite the network's history of publishing content that labels Zionists as mortal enemies and claims anti-Semitic attacks in Sydney were staged. Fordham highlights concerns regarding social cohesion and calls for an urgent review of the grant scheme following criticisms from Jewish community leaders.

This episode of the Ben Fordham podcast covers a wide range of domestic and international news, from the emotional distress caused by Department of Veterans Affairs administrative errors to rising petrol prices and the financial burden of red tape on small businesses. The program also explores significant legal and social issues, including debates over live-streaming executions in the US, youth crime in Sydney, and the surge in illegal tobacco black markets. Additionally, the episode features personal stories such as Lewis's 400km charity cycle for mental health and the release of an Australian engineer from an Iraqi prison. Other topics include updates on workplace death statistics, regulatory changes affecting business fees, and a tribute to the late politician Bruce Baird.

Ben Fordham discusses the controversial plan in the United States to execute former Army Major Nadal Hassan via firing squad on December 3, noting that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth may live-stream the event. The discussion explores the potential psychological impact of broadcasting a state-sanende killing to a global audience and the risk of creating a martyr for terrorist organizations. The episode features a call-in segment where listeners debate whether such a broadcast aligns with modern democratic values or mirrors the public execution practices of regimes like North Korea and Iran.

An investigation into a new tactic used by the tobacco black market to facilitate online sales of illegal cigarettes. The report reveals how an underground website uses a legitimate-looking candle business as a front, employing coded product names such as 'Man Blue Sea Candles' and 'Marl Gold, Swiss Candles' to mask the sale of brands like Manchester Blue Crush and Marlboro Gold. This investigation highlights the growing scale of illicit tobacco consumption in Australia, which has risen from 12% nearly a decade ago to approximately 80% today.

This episode of the Ben Fordham Podcast examines the widening gap between surging government tax revenues and the growing economic burden on Australian taxpayers. New data reveals that combined tax revenue from federal, state, and local governments has increased by 61% since the pandemic, outstripping nominal economic growth of 47%. The discussion highlights significant rises in personal income tax, company tax, payroll tax, and stamp duty. Despite record collections, public debt is forecast to reach $2 trillion, with rising interest costs and the need to refinance cheap pandemic-era debt creating a fiscal trap. The episode contrasts these massive government revenues with the lived reality of Australians on income support, many of whom are struggling to afford basic necessities like groceries, energy bills, and medication.

This episode of the Ben Fordham podcast covers a wide range of domestic and international news, beginning with recent Australian polling on government approval and debates over trade policies regarding Russian diesel. The program explores various community stories, including the expansion of a student wellbeing program in NSW, the impact of rising rental costs in Sydney, and the personal mission behind Catholic Apparel. The episode also delves into political tensions within the Labor party, criticisms of government credit card surcharge policies, and discussions on potential radicalization in Australia. From commemorating historical tragedies like the Bali bombings to reporting on unique auctions and international news, the show provides a comprehensive overview of current events affecting Australians.

Mortgage broker Joseph Dowd, founder of It's Simple Finance, joins the program to discuss his new advertising campaign targeting the Albanese government's ban on credit card surcharges. The discussion covers the economic impact of businesses being forced to absorb transaction costs and the recent policy shift regarding ATO credit card payments. Dowd critiques the government's focus on social media influencers over small business concerns and highlights upcoming parliamentary discussions regarding new tax laws.

This episode covers news regarding Pope Leo's upcoming surgery for a lung growth and the announcement of his scheduled visit to Australia in September 2028 for the 54th International Eucharistic Congress. The program features an interview with Andre, the founder of Catholic Apparel, who discusses creating custom merchandise for Archbishop Anthony Fisher to present to the Pontiff. The conversation explores the growth of the Australian brand, its mission to provide hope through clothing, and the business's involvement in community and charity events.

This episode reports on an incident during the Australia Cup final between Melbourne Victory and South Melbourne, where soccer fans interrupted a Welcome to Country performed by Uncle Colin Hunter Jr. with loud booing. The report explores the polarized reactions to the event, noting that while some critics have labeled the behavior as shameful, others expressed frustration with traditional acknowledgments of country. The segment also introduces Julian Malnick, who has developed an alternative version called a 'thank you to country.' This new version focuses on themes of shared land and national unity, aiming to provide a less divisive way to acknowledge the continent's history and its people.

Ben Fordham discusses recent political developments in Australia, beginning with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's appearance in a viral comedy skit by the duo Swag on the Beat. The episode examines the backlash to this social media strategy amidst rising cost-of-living pressures, specifically focusing on record-high median rents in Sydney and increasing financial burdens on consumers due to credit card surcharges and ATO payment controversies. Additionally, the segment covers allegations of travel expense cover-ups involving Communications Minister Annika Wells and criticisms regarding government spending on climate change events.

Veteran journalist Hugh Rimmington joins the studio to discuss his retirement after a distinguished 48-year career in the media. From his early days in New Zealand and Australia to stints at CNN and Network 10, Rimmington reflects on a lifetime of covering global milestones, including natural disasters, wars, and political shifts. The conversation delves into his most impactful reporting assignments, such as the Port Arthur massacre, the Rwandan genocide, and the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Rimmington shares personal anecdotes ranging from witnessing Nelson Mandela's historic election victory to a remarkable moment involving Kerry Packer personally funding his war correspondence. The episode serves as a retrospective on a career defined by front-row seats to history's most significant and harrowing events.

Ben Fordham discusses the escalating cost of living crisis in Australia, highlighting that 32% of mortgage holders are now facing mortgage stress. The episode examines the tension between government theories regarding housing shortages and the reality of the Australian property market. While Immigration Minister Tony Burke suggests that downsizing by older Australians could alleviate the shortage, recent research indicates that a vast majority of seniors have no plans to move due to costs, lack of suitable alternatives, and the desire to pass on wealth to their children.

This episode of the Ben Fordham podcast covers a wide range of domestic and international news, beginning with political tensions regarding credit card surcharge bans and One Nation's climate policy pledges. The program features an in-depth interview with AFP Commissioner Chrissie Barrett, who discusses organized crime, drug-related security threats, and the controversy surrounding a high-profile arrest on a plane. The episode also explores economic concerns for small businesses, updates on legal developments involving Sam Wood and Prince Andrew, and significant sporting news including the upcoming South Africa cricket tour. Additional segments touch upon historical milestones, weather warnings for an approaching US hurricane, and personal reflections on journalism and global events.

An analysis of the psychological build-up to the upcoming three-test series between Australia and South Africa. The discussion focuses on how South African broadcaster Super Sport is utilizing footage from the 2018 'Sandpapergate' scandal in promotional material to heighten tensions. Featuring insights from News Corp Chief Cricket Writer Ben Horne, the episode examines the potential for crowd hostility, the impact of past controversies on players like David Warner, and the competitive outlook for both teams heading into a critical period of international cricket.

Ben Fordham discusses the growing political and economic backlash surrounding the Australian government's decision on credit card surcharges and the ATO's refusal to accept credit card payments for tax obligations. The policy has drawn criticism from small business owners, entrepreneurs, and even members of the Labor Party, who warn of potential inflation, a brain drain of talent, and increased costs for consumers. The episode explores the impact on various sectors, including local councils facing significant budgetary pressures and newsagents struggling with thin profit margins. As internal pressure mounts within the Labor Party, the discussion highlights the broader implications for Australian small businesses and the potential for rising interest rates due to new inflationary pressures.

In this episode, host Ben Fordham interviews Australian Federal Police Commissioner Chrissie Barrett to mark her first year in office. The discussion covers a range of high-profile incidents, including the Bondi Beach terror attack and the recent arrest of Ben Robert Smith on an aircraft. Commissioner Barrett addresses concerns regarding inter-agency communication, the growing complexity of organized crime involving state actors, and the national security threat posed by drug trafficking. The interview also delves into the controversial operational decisions surrounding the arrest of Smith, specifically why the arrest took place on a plane surrounded by passengers and his children. The episode concludes with host Ben Fordham and callers debating the safety and transparency of the AFP's media tactics and the potential for information leaks to the press.