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As the Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Treasurer Jim Chalmers continue their big budget sell, they've faced fierce backlash from small business owners over changes to the CGT discount.

While Labor billed this as a "housing reform budget", did they fail to lay the groundwork for broader taxation changes — and have they lost control of the narrative?

And Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson has capitalised on the discontent, laying out vision that backs and rewards "self-starters". So, has he offered up an economic lifeline for Liberals?

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Phil Coorey, AFR Political Editor on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson has used a National Press Club Address to outline his vision for the Liberals.

As PK tells David Speers the speech functioned as a "call to arms for what the Liberal Party's chief mission should be".

And what we didn't hear from Tim Wilson was as interesting as what we did in this set-piece speech — with David pointing out that the Shadow Treasurer was squarely focused on "aspiration, small business, start-ups" avoiding immigration and culture war issues.

So, is his "classic Liberal" vision something fellow Liberals can coalesce around?

Patricia Karvelas and David Speers break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

The fight over Labor’s proposed capital gains tax changes isn’t brewing - it’s already here.

Small business owners, founders and investors are piling pressure on the government, with backlash erupting across talkback radio and social media. Critics say the changes punish aspiration, investment and growth.

As Labor tries to sell the reforms, business groups warn Australia risks becoming a less attractive place to build and scale companies. Meanwhile, viral memes portraying Anthony Albanese as an accidental “co-owner” of small businesses are spreading fast online.

So will Labor hold the line, or soften the changes as pressure mounts?

And later - why the government is delaying aged care price caps, and what new budget measures could mean for older Australians.

Patricia Karvelas and Raf Epstein break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

There's a big budget contest of ideas underway, as Labor and the Coalition try to sell their alternate visions for Australia to voters.

Or as Jacob puts it to PK, "politics is back!"

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has brushed off new polling, suggesting the Government wasn't expecting a post-Budget bounce and doing the right thing is worth "any near term political costs".

And the Opposition leader Angus Taylor is also defending his policies, with some pushback coming from within his own party.

Patricia Karvelas and Jacob Greber break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Read PK's analysis here

Read Jacob's analysis here

This week's federal budget included an overhaul of negative gearing and the capital gains tax rules in a bid to move thousands of homes from the hands of investors to first home buyers. 

Opposition leader Angus Taylor used his first budget in reply speech to lay out some big bold policy ideas, saying he hopes Australians can "begin to believe again."

Income tax would form the centrepiece, with bracket creep returned to workers, at a cost of over $22bn to the budget bottom line.

PK and Clare agree this was a "big swing" from Angus Taylor — with PK suggesting it's because the Opposition are "drowning and desperate to get the light on them — it's an attention grabbing response."

Clare adds the announcements from Opposition leader had an "inkling of desperation" about them, as Angus Taylor realises he doesn't have the time usually afforded an Opposition leader to build towards a centrepiece.

So, while the tax cuts set the Opposition leader up for an interesting couple of years, giving him something substantial to defend and fight Labor on does it "tie his hands behind his back" on what he can do and announce in the next few years?

Patricia Karvelas and Clare Armstrong break it all down on Politics Now. Read Clare's reporting here 

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

As Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese continue their big budget sell, Opposition leader Angus Taylor is gearing up to deliver his budget reply -- and big political and ideological battlelines are being drawn.

PK tells Fran and David Speers, as the two budgets and two different visions for Australia take shape, there's a sense of real contest and a "battle for who people can win over".  David says the Albanese Government's Budget is the "most reforming budget" in decades, with previous governments have been resistant to creating "winners and losers". 

And in the immediate wash-up of budget night, he says Labor is feeling upbeat that they've "finally got something to fight for".So, will Labor reap the rewards of the political risk? Or will the Coalition's message cut through?

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by David Speers, ABC's political lead on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auREFERENCES: Read David's analysis here

Catch up on PK's IV with the PM here

Catch up on Fran's economic wrap of the budget here

Treasurer Jim Chalmers has unveiled his highly anticipated fifth budget, claiming it's the "most ambitious and important in decades".

Housing tax reform was the centrepiece of the wartime budget, with changes to negative gearing and the capital gains tax discount announced.

Labor says the reforms will allow 75,000 new people to afford their first home, but does the move go far enough to address intergenerational inequity? Will voters reward them for taking a risk - or punish them for "breaking a promise"?

And as inflation continues to surge, how healthy is the budget bottom line?

Patricia Karvelas and Carrington Clarke break it all down from the budget lock-up on this Politics Now x ABC Business Daily special episode.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Labor is leaning into housing this budget, with big tax reforms to negative gearing and capital gains tax to form the centrepiece.

It's all in a bid to address intergenerational inequity — but as Tom tells PK, grandfathering could "directly undermine" that and feed into accusations the Albanese Government is "pulling the ladder up" on a new generation.

As PK says, the way Labor "frames" the reforms is key both to win over voters and ward of future scare campaigns. 

But while the Albanese Government wants the focus to be housing, Tom is convinced that come end of week we're going to be talking about another element of the budget "whether it's trusts, whether it's capital gains in the share market".

And remember there will be another special episode of Politics Now x ABC Business Daily in your feed after the budget lock-up!

Patricia Karvelas and Tom Crowley break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

There's been a seismic shift in the Australian political landscape, with One Nation claiming it's first ever lower-house seat.

The minor party's landslide victory in the former Coalition heartland of Farrer came with a warning shot from leader Pauline Hanson — "One Nation is coming for your seat next."

So, as the recriminations continue, PK and Jacob discuss if "operation Angus" has failed the Coalition and what base the party has left.

PK points out the party have lost their city heartland and now their regional heartland, while Jacob adds that the suburbs in areas like Western Sydney is exactly where One Nation has vowed to target next.

Meanwhile, across the pond UK Labour have been delivered a drubbing at local council elections, haemorrhaging seats to Nigel Farage's Reform party on the right and The Greens on the left. The diabolical result sends a warning sign for major parties of all stripes, including the Albanese government.

Patricia Karvelas and Jacob Greber break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Farrer has been held by the Coalition for nearly 80 years but the seat looks almost certain to be won by One Nation's David Farley or Independent candidate Michelle Milthorpe. 

It's been a budget focused week in politics, but the arrival of a cohort of so-called ISIS brides has stolen some of that pre-budget spotlight.

And speaking of budgets, is Treasurer Jim Chalmer's fifth set to be more exciting than the others? Well, PK admits she's excited at the "opening of a can" but both her and Fran agree that with promise of this being a big reforming budget, it's more closely watched than usual.

And when should politicians change their mind — and when is it just 'dishonest'? Why has the PM linked a gas profits tax to shoring up fuel supply overseas? And what's the Coalition's 'strategy' on One Nation?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer your clever queries on this special Question Time edition of The Party Room.Catch-up on the LIVE SHOW on ABC Listen or on Apple here or on Spotify here.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

It turns out Fran and PK may have invented podcasting? Well, maybe not quite .. but they have been getting behind the microphone to bring you The Party Room for a whopping 10 years!

To celebrate a whole decade of the podcast, they were joined on stage by special guests Lenore Taylor and Casey Briggs to reflect on how Australian politics has shifted over the last 10 years , and where things are headed next.

So, with the Farrer by-election looming, is the Coalition legitimising One Nation by preferencing them? And as voter demographics in Australia shift, with Millennials and Gen Z now the largest voting bloc, is the time right for the slow and steady Albanese Government to be brave on budget night?

And PK lets us in on a little secret … because it turns out "everybody is going politics hot" — so what does that mean?

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Lenore Taylor, Journalist and Author and Casey Briggs, ABC Chief Elections Analyst for The Party Room LIVE!

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Anthony Albanese has unveiled a $10 billion energy security package, including a permanent government-owned fuel reserve, in what the government is calling a major step towards energy sovereignty.

The announcement lands just days out from the budget, and in the mix of RBA governor Michelle Bullock warning the government to be careful spending doesn't add to inflation, following yesterday's rate rise.

And as a group of so-called “ISIS brides” and their children prepare to return to Australia, the political pressure is shifting again - from budget discipline to national security and the government’s capacity to hold the line on both.

Patricia Karvelas and David Speers break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

The Albanese Government is locking in a trio of tax reforms, with capital gains tax, negative gearing and the taxation of trust funds all set to feature in the budget.

PK and Raf Epstein are aligned on the need for the Government to deliver "big reform". PK says she's "troubled" by the way Labor is avoiding making the case for changes they believe in during the "bear-pit of an election" and using the changes to Stage 3 Tax Cuts as the "template" rather than an exception. Raf has other thoughts.

So, is what we want from politicians actually "radical honesty", or can they keep some ambitions in the bottom drawer?

Patricia Karvelas and Raf Epstein break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auListen to ABC Business Daily here

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese have held bi-lateral talks, lauding the "quasi-alliance" and friendship between the two-nations.

As Jacob tells PK, Anthony Albanese has been engaging in extensive "alliance-work" over the last few months, with the subtext of those bilateral talks becoming overt — "we are worried about the US and what Donald Trump is doing to alliances."

Meanwhile, the reverberations are continuing after the death of Kumanjayi Little Baby, the Opposition has called for an inquiry, but as Sorry Business commences, the family calls for unity and for time to grieve.

And with the budget just over a week away, speculation has reached "fever-pitch", so is the Treasurer preparing us for a tough budget?

Patricia Karvelas and Jacob Greber break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

With just 10 days to go, Treasurer Jim Chalmers is putting the final touches the budget. 

Dr Chalmers has made clear productivity is a priority for this term of parliament. So who better to ask about the upcoming budget than the Productivity Commission. 

David Speers sat down with Commission Chair Danielle Wood for this week's Insiders On Background. 

It's been a busy but "bitsy" week in politics, and while Pauline Hanson's "sexy" plane and the announcement of a new US Ambassador to Australia briefly took the spotlight, the economy has been the key focus.

Inflation has dramatically spiked, the Prime Minister has effectively ruled out a gas profits tax and housing reforms are starting to take shape. But as Treasurer Jim Chalmers and Shadow Treasurer Tim Wilson continue their battle of the barbs, Shane Wright has a few Kate Bush inspired suggestions for the budget playlist.

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Shane Wright, senior economics correspondent for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald on The Party Room.

Read Shane's piece on the capital gains tax here

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Inflation has surged to a whopping 4.6 per cent, the highest level since 2023, as fuel shocks caused by the US-Iran war continue to bite.

But the cost of living hasn't stopped One Nation leader Pauline Hanson from taking to social media to celebrate her "sexy" new private plane. Treasurer Jim Chalmers has hit out at the announcement, labelling the Senator a "wholly owned subsidiary" of billionaire Gina Rinehart — so could the optics hurt the minor party?

It comes as Anthony Albanese delivered his "largest" pre-budget speech. Speaking at a Chamber of Minerals and Energy event in WA, the PM effectively ruled out a gas profits tax in the budget — saying it wasn't the time to jeopardise regional partnerships.

Patricia Karvelas and David Speers break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

The Prime Minister has committed to "fixing" the News Bargaining Code to ensure platforms contribute their "fair share", unveiling an exposure draft of the legislation.

Meanwhile, the Trump Administration has nominated former Republican Congressman David Brat for the role of US ambassador to Australia. And Mel and PK are in fierce agreement about the glory of Canberra in autumn, but reporting suggests the likes of Sylvester Stallone and Mel Gibson — who were previously touted for the posting — weren't so keen on a move to the bush capital.

And the Opposition has unveiled a plan to double Australia's fuel reserves, as energy security remains a key focus for the Government.

Patricia Karvelas and Mel Clarke break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Anthony Albanese has joined with other world leaders to express gratitude that the US President was unharmed after a a shooter crashed the venue of the White House Correspondents' dinner.

But back home, support for Donald Trump and the US alliance is under strain, could that also spell trouble for One Nation? And as the Farrer by-election gets closer, could the Coalition preferencing the minor party get them their first lower house seat in 30-years?

Patricia Karvelas and Jacob Greber break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Read PK's analysis hereRead Jacob's analysis here Listen to QT with Casey Briggs on ABC Listen or Apple 

Donald Trump has extended the ceasefire with Iran, but what happens now? 

Ambassador John Bolton was the President's national security adviser during his first term of office.

He joined David Speers for this week's Insiders: On Background. 

In a very special Question Time edition of The Party Room, Chief Elections and Data Analyst Casey Briggs joins PK to get stuck into all of your wonderfully nerdy questions.

Including, what does the preparation for election night look like behind the scenes? Why is Queensland the only state without an Upper House/Senate? Are Gen Z men still leaning left? And is expanding the size of parliament a good idea?

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

As the leaves on the parliamentary budget tree change colour, Labor has unveiled an enormous NDIS overhaul — promising major savings in the upcoming budget.

So, has Prime Minister Anthony Albanese finally used some of his political capital with the "bold" reforms? And what are the political risks, as many in the disability community remain alarmed about the implications from the overhaul?

Meanwhile, momentum is growing for a gas profits tax, with an unlikely political grouping all supporting the push. However, as the PM looks to shore-up fuel security in the region, has he gone cold on the idea?

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Sarah Ferguson, ABC 730 Host on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Watch Sarah's IV with Health Minister Mark Butler here: https://iview.abc.net.au/video/SEGS2026106594290Catch up on Afternoon Briefing here: https://iview.abc.net.au/show/afternoon-briefingCatch up on The Radio National Hour:https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/the-radio-national-hour

The Albanese Government has announced a sweeping overhaul of the NDIS, with 160,000 participants to be booted from the scheme within four years.

Underpinned by four key pillars, the reform looks to rein in spending and "unsustainable growth" and clamp down on the "chaotic free-for-all-market that's built up".

And while the move will generate key budget savings, it doesn't come without political costs for Labor — but as David tells PK, the government clearly thinks they'll "get points for making some tough and hard decisions" even if it means a rough political road ahead.

Patricia Karvelas and David Speers break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Whether the government likes it or not, momentum is building around a gas profits tax.

What began as a simmering grassroots and political push has accelerated amid the global energy crisis, with pressure mounting on the government to act. A Greens-led inquiry into the issue begins today.

But is Prime Minister Anthony Albanese listening?

At the same time, both the government and opposition are sharpening their housing messages - but which one will land with voters?

Patricia Karvelas and Raf Epstein break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Treasurer Jim Chalmers says reining in NDIS spending will “easily be the most important” source of budget savings as the Albanese Government looks to make the scheme "sustainable".

And while the Treasurer confirmed a "whole range" of tax reforms remain on the table, is consensus growing across political aisles and the community for changes like a gas profits tax?

Meanwhile, One Nations' primary vote has slumped across two key polls today, so is Donald Trump's erratic behaviour causing some blow-back against the minor party?

Patricia Karvelas and Jacob Greber break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auRead PK's analysis here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-20/australias-lucky-country-mantle-has-slipped/106581228 Read Jacob's analysis here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-18/inflation-war-making-may-budget-harder/106577912

Australia’s National Defence Strategy was unveiled this week, with more money for drones and missiles and an unapologetic commitment to the US-alliance.

Kim Beazley is a former Defence Minister during the Hawke Government, a long-serving Labor Leader in opposition, a former Ambassador to the United States and now Chair of the Australian War Memorial. 

He sat down with David Speers for this week’s Insiders On Background.

A National Defence Strategy, an oil refinery fire, a regional charm offensive by the PM, a bleak global outlook from the IMF and a new Opposition immigration policy — it's been another big week in politics.

So, is the Albanese Government's boost to defence spending the right move — or at least a sign they're "on the right track"? And as Anthony Albanese continues his regional "petro-diplomacy" with visits to Brunei and Malaysia — is securing supply now even more important due to the Corio refinery fire?

Patricia Karvelas and Jacob Greber are joined by Peter Hartcher, Chief Political and International Editor at the SMH and the Age The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Get free tickets to THE PARTY ROOM LIVE SHOW here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/10-years-of-the-party-room-tickets-1987025124637?aff=oddtdtcreator

As Treasurer Jim Chalmers heads to the US for as G20 finance meeting, the IMF has delivered a dire warning about global economic growth and inflation.

So, with less than a month to go until budget night, will this still be the big reforming budget we were expecting?

Meanwhile, the Opposition is facing scrutiny for its newly unveiled immigration policy — so are there details beyond the "vibes"?

Patricia Karvelas and David Speers break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Get free tickets to THE PARTY ROOM LIVE SHOW here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/10-years-of-the-party-room-tickets-1987025124637?aff=oddtdtcreator

Listen to ABC Business Daily here: A warning from the IMF - ABC listen

Listen to Tuesday's Politics Now episode here: Will Albanese's 'petro-diplomacy' work? - ABC listen

Opposition leader Angus Taylor has called for Australia to "discriminate based on values" and suggested some migrants represent a "net drain" to Australia.

PK and Tom Crowley discuss how the Coalition's long awaited immigration policy is big on rhetoric but relatively light on detail. Tom says if the intention was just to "send a signal" to voters shifting to One Nation, Pauline Hanson will simply "send a louder signal" — while PK notes that "you can never out One Nation on immigration".

And the Albanese Government is set to inject billions of dollars into drones, as it prepares to unveil it's National Defence Strategy Review on Thursday.

Patricia Karvelas and Tom Crowley break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Get free tickets to THE PARTY ROOM LIVE SHOW here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/10-years-of-the-party-room-tickets-1987025124637?aff=oddtdtcreator

US President Donald Trump has ordered a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, after peace talks with Iran failed over the weekend. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has reiterated that Australia hasn't been asked to assist, and called for the resumption of negotiations and an end to the conflict.

It comes as Anthony Albanese prepares to visit his counterparts in Malaysia and Brunei for another round of "petro-diplomacy", as he attempts to shore up fuel and fertiliser supplies with the region.

And navy chief, Vice Admiral Mark Hammond has been announced as the incoming Chief of Australian Defence Force, while Lieutenant General Susan Coyle will become the first ever female army chief.

Patricia Karvelas and Jacob Greber break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auGet tickets to THE PARTY ROOM LIVE SHOW here: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/10-years-of-the-party-room-tickets-1987025124637?aff=oddtdtcreator READ JACOB'S ANALYSIS HERE: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-11/albanese-singapore-fuel-iran-hormuz-recession-us-prestige/106552818

Israel's Ambassador to Australia, Hillel Newman sat down with David Speers for this week's Insiders On Background. 

Fran and PK let you know about all of the news "adjacent" TV they've been watching — and then get stuck into some brilliant listener queries on this Question Time edition of the Party Room.

Does the political centre shift over time? Are the 24-hour news cycle and social media diluting the quality of legislation? And is populism the answer, or just a symptom of our fracturing global order?

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

PK and Fran's TV watchlist:

PK - Ponies, on BingeFran - Tehran, on Apple TV+Landman, on Paramount+

An extreme threat, a ceasefire, and an awkward roller coaster for US allies

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has welcomed the US-Iran two-week ceasefire, but criticised US President Donald Trump's "inappropriate" threats that a "whole civilisation will die".

The condemnation came after Nationals leader Matt Canavan urged the PM to make it clear he didn't support the US President's rhetoric. So, is most of the criticism of Donald Trump actually coming from the right?

And as Anthony Albanese prepares to head to Singapore to meet with his counterpart to discuss energy security, he's also spoken with the Chinese Premier overnight. So, as Australia looks to region to shore-up supply chains, is Donald Trump unintentionally uniting other regional allies?

Jacob Greber and David Speers break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed his upcoming trip to Singapore, as the government continues to "build resilience" amid global uncertainty.

It comes as the US President has again criticised Australia and NATO allies for their lack of help, as his deadline for Iran to agree to a ceasefire or face "complete demolition" looms.

Meanwhile, Treasurer Jim Chalmers is trying to put the final touches on his fifth budget, which the PM warns will be finalised later than usual. But as spending pressures compound, can the Albanese Government deliver "ambitious reform" — or will it be back to basics?

Jacob Greber and Tom Crowley break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Read Clare's piece on Farrer here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-07/farrer-candidate-funded-by-rupert-murdoch-son-in-law/106535826

Over 1000-days since the landmark Murphy report was handed down, Anthony Albanese has announced his government's long awaited gambling advertisement reform.

The move came on the Thursday before the Easter long weekend, with critics disappointed the reforms are too timid and don't go far enough. So, has the prime minister landed on a "half pregnant" position on gambling reform? And is there a clear pathway to get the legislation through parliament?

And as the Easter long weekend comes to a close, there's some positive news about fuel supply — with Energy and Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen declaring fuel shipments look good for April through to May.

Jacob Greber and Clare Armstrong break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Read Clare's analysis here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-05/gambling-advertising-labor-anthony-albanese-murphy-report/106510878

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese delivered a rare national address overnight, warning Australians about "uncertain times" ahead — but sending the message the government has their back. But after frenzied speculation, did it fall flat — or did it meet the moment?

It comes amid lots of "pump priming" from the government, as Labor tries to "take the sting" out of petrol prices and keep small businesses afloat. The big price tags come ahead of Treasurer Jim Chalmers' fifth budget in May, which the PM has reiterated will be "ambitious".

And as the US-Iran conflict continues to rage, Labor seems to have shifted its language towards de-escalation.

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas are joined by Katina Curtis, Canberra Bureau Chief at the West Australian on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Tickets to our live show will be announced SOON! Watch this space!!

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is set to deliver a rare national address this evening — the first national address since the COVID pandemic.

While it's not yet clear what it will detail, PK and Clare discuss how the move allows the Albanese government to control the agenda and how the "man with the plan" positioning gives the government "important political high-ground". But is there also political danger if the message doesn't meet the moment?

Meanwhile, Shadow Foreign Minister Ted O'Brien says Australia should be "open" to contributing assets and personnel to assist in the Strait of Hormuz — but is this the right move, or an "unnecessary contribution"?

Patricia Karvelas and Clare Armstrong break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Read Clare's writing on rationing here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-31/modelling-assumes-rationing-if-diesel-stockpile-drops-to-10-days/106513966

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-04-01/public-should-not-expect-clear-trigger-for-fuel-rationing/106513970

Watch PK's IV with Ted O'Brien here:https://iview.abc.net.au/show/afternoon-briefing/series/0/video/NU2622C042S00

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says the fuel excise cut will "make a difference", but the Treasurer is warning the cut could take weeks to flow through.

Opposition leader Angus Taylor has welcomed the move, claiming the government has "finally" acted under pressure and the Coalition will "continue to lead". 

And speaking of leadership, it seems Angus Taylor has tried to assert some authority over his main leadership rival Andrew Hastie, but is the Opposition leader being "outplayed"?

As Raf tells PK,we're in a new political paradigm, the political battleground isn't left versus right anymore, but is bottom versus top — "If you're in the top bottom fight on behalf of the voter, you're at least in the conversation. If you're still fighting the left right thing, I think our politicians fear that they're being left behind".

And Labor has backed a Greens motion for a parliamentary inquiry to examine the tax settings for Australia's oil and gas resources, it comes amid a groundswell of support for a gas profits tax from One Nation through to the Greens. So, will we see a gas tax in the upcoming budget?

Patricia Karvelas and Raf Epstein break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Listen to Raf's IV with the PM here: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/melbourne-mornings/-good-pm-s-one-word-response-to-dezi-freeman-s-death/106515564Listen to ABC Business Daily here: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/abc-business-daily/who-pays-for-petrol/106512650

The Prime Minister has announced the fuel excise will be halved and the heavy vehicle road user charge reduced to zero for three months.

It comes as National Cabinet also agrees to an energy security plan, with four levels of action.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers says the reductions are "temporary, timely and responsible", but they come with a $2.55 billion dollar price-tag. While it's welcome relief for drivers, Jacob tells PK cheaper petrol won't necessarily push down demand — which will be an "interesting test".

And Anthony Albanese has also changed his language on the war in the Middle East, calling for more "certainty" on the US' objectives and urging de-escalation.

Patricia Karvelas and Jacob Greber break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auRead PK's latest piece here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-30/australian-fears-about-iran-war-and-fuel-shortages/106508802

The global economic fallout from the Middle East war is still emerging, but things are not looking good.  

It's a conundrum for the Federal Government, who is trying to navigate the economic storm ahead of the May budget. 

Independent economist Chris Richardson joins Melissa Clarke for this week's On Background.

Australia has been in the firing line of another Donald Trump "spray", with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese declaring he "won't comment on commentary."

As other Labor frontbenchers strike a similar tone, PK tells Fran Labor Ministers have become "rolled gold experts" at not being drawn into the US President's remarks.

And PK and Fran cap off a "binfire week" with their favourite good news stories — and get stuck into all your clever questions, including..

Who will be the Opposition in South Australia? When do major parties lose that status? How are the Greens meeting the current political moment? And with the current fuel woes, are renewables the answer?

Patricia Karvelas and Fran Kelly answer all of your clever questions on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has confirmed National Cabinet will meet again to coordinate a national response to the ongoing fuel crisis. But should the meeting be happening now, rather than next week?

And as the reverberations from One Nation's success at the South Australian election continue to ricochet federally, Labor is also feeling the heat. Health Minister Mark Butler used a Dorothy Dixer in Question Time to point to One Nation's lack of Medicare policy, so are they now treating One Nation as part of a quasi-Opposition?

Fran Kelly and Patricia Karvelas break it down on The Party Room.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auHear Fran's IV with Allegra Spender here: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/the-radio-national-hour/allegra-spender/106487930

After nearly a decade of negotiations, Australia and the European Union have signed a landmark free trade agreement. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese hailed it "a defining moment" for the relationship, while EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said it was a "win for both parties."

In addition to the trade deal, Australia and the European Union have also inked a defence and security agreement, with Ursula von der Leyen addressing parliament to welcome what she calls "a new era of economic and security partnership."

Meanwhile, it's been 1000 days since a landmark gambling report led by the late Labor MP Peta Murphy was handed down. Crossbenchers are urging the Albanese Government to act on the report's recommendations, while a new study has found gambling companies are finding "novel" ways to target women.

Patricia Karvelas and Raf Epstein break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

The Labor Malinauskas Government claimed a landslide victory in the South Australian election over the weekend, cementing what PK calls the Premier's "political rockstar" status in the state.

But One Nation also managed to convert it's high polling numbers into success at the ballot box, peeling voters off the Liberal party. And it's not just the Liberals rattled by the minor parties success, with Labor also put on notice and the SA Premier warning his team against hubris.

It comes as federal parliament returns for another sitting week, with fuel supply again set to dominate the agenda.

Patricia Karvelas and Jacob Greber break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auRead PK's latest analysis here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-23/one-nation-sa-election-result-lessons-for-liberals-and-labor/106483754Read Jacob's latest analysis here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-03-21/albanese-government-fuel-crisis-energy-supplies-gas-subsidies/106474862 Listen to ABC Business Daily here: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/abc-business-daily/an-escalating-war-and-a-falling-asx/106486100 

The Federal government says there's no shortage of fuel supply in Australia, amid the ongoing war in Iran.

So why some regional service stations unable to find supply, and why are petrol prices so high? 

Malcolm Roberts is the Chief Executive of the Australian Institute of Petroleum, which represents the big refiners and fuel suppliers. He sat down with David Speers for this week's Insiders On Background. 

All eyes are on the South Australian election this week, which promises to be the first real test of One Nation's skyrocketing support in recent polls. And as ABC Chief Elections Analyst Casey Briggs tells Fran and PK,  Queensland based Pauline Hanson really has become the "main character" in the state's election.

So, could this election be an "extinction level event" for the SA Liberals? And could the minor party also take some shine off the Labor Malinauskus Government?

Meanwhile, National Cabinet has met with the Prime Minister announcing a national fuel supply taskforce coordinator. It comes as the RBA hikes rates and the fallout from the war in the Middle East continues to hit home.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

Shadow Minister for Industry and Sovereign Capability Andrew Hastie has blasted the US President's social media post criticising Australia and other allies, labelling it a "petulant post from a President under immense pressure."

It comes as Treasurer Jim Chalmers says he "wasn't aware" of any formal requests for naval assistance in the Strait of Hormuz, ahead of tomorrow's National Cabinet meeting on fuel security.

So, as the fallout from the RBA's rate hike continues, will the May budget be Treasurer Jim Chalmers "hardest" yet?

Patricia Karvelas and David Speers break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au

In a decision that was widely anticipated, the RBA hiked the interest rate by 0.25 percentage points, taking the cash rate to 4.1 per cent.

It wasn't unanimous — in fact just one vote determined the hike — but it comes as the financial impact of the war in the Middle East hits home. So, what will the double whammy of higher interest rates and global uncertainty mean for Treasurer Jim Chalmer's fifth budget?

Patricia Karvelas and Carrington Clarke break it all down on Politics Now.

Got a burning question?

Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.auYou can follow the ABC Business Daily podcast here: https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/abc-business-daily