Australia, Explained

The Russia-Ukraine Conflict

Mon, 21 Mar 2022 20:00:00 GMT

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 conflict
Vox Explained: Russia-Ukraine crisis
Australians wanting to fight in Ukraine

This 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.

Religious Discrimination Bill

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 20:00:00 GMT

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 bill

Read the initial drafts of the bill

Citipointe Christian College statement

Penrith Christian School controversy

School experiences of LGBTQ+ kids

Is 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.

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.

Anything BUT Covid News

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 01:00:00 GMT

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 visas
Our previous episodes on asylum seekers (Part 1 and Part 2)
Indigenous Voice in Parliament
Kurri Kurri gas plant

This 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.

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.

Housing Horrors and 2021 Finale

Tue, 21 Dec 2021 20:00:00 GMT

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 Data

Why have housing prices increased?

Housing prices vs. wage growth

This 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.

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.

Hopes of an ICAC featuring the Virtuous Victorian!

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 20:00:00 GMT

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 Index

Dark Donations episode

Gladys Berejiklian story

ScoMo and ICAC

ICAC stats

This 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.

AFL's Big Problem

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 20:00:00 GMT

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 Case

James Robinson’s protest against St Kevin’s College

AFL’s Respect and Responsibility Policy

NRL “no-fault stand down” policy

This 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!

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.

EndED with Hannah Renee

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 20:00:00 GMT

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:

EndED

Eating disorders during COVID

History of eating disorders

Pain bias

Eating disorders in males

This 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.

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.

War with China?

Tue, 19 Oct 2021 20:00:00 GMT

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 war

What’s happening in the South China Sea

China is ‘punishing’ Australia

This week, Tania recommended an ABC podcast called “China, If You’re Listening”. Vanessa recommended English language Chinese media website China Daily.

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.

Happy 1st Birthday to Australia, Explained!

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 20:00:00 GMT

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.

Myth of the Hunter-Gatherer

Tue, 14 Sep 2021 22:00:00 GMT

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 quote

Shaping the landscape

Permanent settlements in Yuwibara land

This 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.

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.

Aussies in Afghanistan

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 23:00:00 GMT

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 conflict

The Brereton Report about war crimes in Afghanistan

Russia, China and Pakistan’s role in Afghanistan

This 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.

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.

Climate Courage

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 00:00:00 GMT

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 Agreement

ScoMo’s comments on the IPCC report

Each country’s carbon emissions

Australia needs to cut emissions by at least 50%

Australia: Climate Action Tracker

Where do Australia’s emissions come from

What 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.

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.

Conspiracies: The Pursuit of "Truth"

Tue, 03 Aug 2021 22:00:00 GMT

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 compass

The far-right in Australia

Dr Karen Douglas on why people believe in conspiracies

Social media as an “echo chamber”

Sky News banned from YouTube

The Dunning-Kruger effect

QAnon in Australia

This 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.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.

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Beers, Bevs and Booooooze

Tue, 20 Jul 2021 22:00:00 GMT

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 communities

History of alcohol in First Nations communities

Action on alcohol in First Nations communities

Dry 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.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.

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Covid Vaccine 102

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 02:00:00 GMT

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 data

Vaccine rollout timeline

Worldwide Vaccine Tracker

AstraZeneca and blood clots

This 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.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.

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Are Public Broadcasters Still...Public?

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 12:00:00 GMT

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 broadcasting

Foxtel gets $40 million of funding

ABC misses out on funding this budget

Parliament paper on ABC funding

Labor pledges to reverse ABC funding cuts

ABC program cuts in response

The ABC and our democracy

ABC runs ads on third party platforms

ABC 2020 Annual Report

This 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.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.

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Crikey! Cricket & Colonialism

Wed, 19 May 2021 03:00:00 GMT

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 Team

Former Treasurer Wayne Swan on Bodyline Ashes

Sport and Apartheid

How Steve Smith reacted to the ball tampering scandal

This 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.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.

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Australia's #metoo moment

Tue, 04 May 2021 13:00:00 GMT

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 House

ScoMo’s press conference

Higgins and ScoMo have a meeting

Inquiry into sexual assault culture of Parliament House

This 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.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.

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The ANZAC legend

Thu, 22 Apr 2021 21:00:00 GMT

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 Gallipoli

The ‘history wars’ over ANZAC Day

What 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.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

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Eulogy for JobKeeper

Tue, 30 Mar 2021 10:00:00 GMT

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 us

JobKeeper turns into a profit maker

300 ASX companies + JobKeeper

How we spent JobKeeper

Examples of JobKeeper fraud

This 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.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

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The Tasmanian Genocide

Tue, 16 Mar 2021 20:00:00 GMT

Disclaimer: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander listeners are advised that the following program contains names of people who have died. We extend a disclaimer to all listeners that this episode contains detailed accounts of violence and trauma, and may be disturbing for some.

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the Tasmanian genocide - what happened, why people don’t know about it and how we can work towards reconciliation.

In this episode, we attempted to use black voices as the focal point of our research. Direct sources from the Palawa people were found in a range of publications and comments by the Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre and Aboriginal leaders.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

Tasmanian Aboriginal Centre

Palawa Shared Language Groups

Truganini memorial defaced

National Museum of Australia’s account of the Black War

Recognising genocide in Tasmania place names

Surviving Palawa (page 18)

Explainer: Evidence for the Tasmanian genocide

The Last of the Tasmanians - 1870 book by James Bonwick

How we remember Frontier Wars opinion piece

We also used physical sources from the State Library of Victoria. Feel free to contact us if you want to review these.

This week, Tania recommended a museum website with a variety of primary sources about the Tasmanian Genocide - note how certain paintings may depict the event with a specific perspective/bias. Vanessa recommended an interactive map by the Guardian that outlines the Frontier Wars in Australia, where they happened and who was involved.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.

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Uni fees: Up, Up, Up

Tue, 02 Mar 2021 20:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the changes to university fees, why these decisions are being made and how it affects you.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

STEM and Humanities wages over time

2019 Graduate Outcomes Study

Jacqui Lambie’s speech about university fees

This week, Tania recommended an article from the ABC that is full of personal testimonials about how the changes to uni fees have impacted different individual’s lives. Vanessa recommended the book “Homo Deus” by Yuval Noah Harari about the potential of Artificial Intelligence to remove the need for people in future scientific/technological jobs.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

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Dark Donations

Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the underworld of political donations, where the money is going and why it’s being hidden.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

Property and construction industry donations

Snapshot of political donations

Breakdown of donors

‘Dark money’ over the past two decades

This week, Tania recommended a 2016 video from the ABC show Q&A about international political donations and includes a discussion about the many issues with political donations laws right now. Vanessa recommended the Centre for Public Integrity's media releases to keep you up-to-date with the latest on political donations and corruption within parliament.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

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Bye Bye Google?

Tue, 16 Feb 2021 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down what’s happening with Google at the moment, why they’re threatening to remove the search engine in Australia and what the future of news media looks like.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

2020 report on digital news in Australia

Mel Silva’s response to the code

What the inventor of the internet says about the code

How Google News Showcase works

This week, Tania recommended a video made by Youtube creator liaison Matt Koval about the Media Bargaining Code. Interesting to see what YouTube is concerned about and how they explain this to their users. Vanessa recommended you either reflect on how you found news and information pre-1998 or talk to someone who was old enough to. Perspective!

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What in the Weather?

Tue, 02 Feb 2021 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down weather in Australia right now, what’s happening and why it’s raining so much.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

Bureau of Meteorology website

Australia’s climate drivers

Antarctica's ice is melting

El Niño is taking over

This week, Tania recommended the Bureau of Meteorology's weather predictions for Australia for February to May. Vanessa recommended this video by Sky News on what happens when the planet gets just 2 degrees warmer.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

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Invading Australia

Tue, 26 Jan 2021 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down the history of January 26, what happened and why it stirs up so much controversy.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

Survey: What Aussies think happened on Jan 26th

Survey: Do Aussies want to #changethedate?

The Frontier Wars

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander accounts to follow:

@blakbusiness @tallulahsrash @comingoutblak @darthem123 @alwaysourstories @nitv_au @tradingblak @clothingthegap

This week, Tania recommended two things - 1) an interactive map by The Guardian that outlines the Frontier Wars between 1788 and 1928, detailing the conflicts between British settlers and First Nations communities; and 2) Dark Emu by Bruce Pascoe, which debunks the myth that First Nations peoples were hunter-gatherers and instead argues that these communities had innovative and established ways of living pre-British invasion. Vanessa recommended an Aus Geographic piece that shows Aboriginal Australians are one of the world's oldest living cultures.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

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Covid Vaccine 101

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained we guide you through the Coronavirus vaccine: how it was developed and how it will be rolled out in Australia.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

Current status of COVID-19 vaccine worldwide

How COVID-19 vaccines are trialled

How Australia approves vaccines

Australia's vaccine agreements

Clarification on the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine

How important is vaccine efficacy?

Economic benefits of worldwide COVID-19 vaccination

Will workplaces be able to force you to take the COVID-19 vaccine?

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander accounts to follow:

@blakbusiness @tallulahsrash @comingoutblak @darthem123 @alwaysourstories @nitv_au @tradingblak @clothingthegap

This week, Tania recommended a piece that will help you read academic articles, if you’re keen on looking at the vaccine research yourself. Vanessa recommended every link in the bits and piece section you just scrolled past.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram @australiaexplainedpod.

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Slip, Slop, Slap!

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we look at skin cancer rates in Australia, why the disease is so common in our country and what we’ve done to reduce it.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

2016 AIHW report on skin cancer

Cancer Council statistics

Study on the incidence of skin cancer in migrated adults

More about the ozone layer in Australia

SunSmart campaigns

This week, Tania recommended the ABCDE checklist for assessing your body for potentially cancerous moles - early detection is crucial! Vanessa recommended an episode of the Shameless podcast where they chat to Natalie Fornasier, a young woman fighting the good fight against melanoma.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

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Australia and China's Rough Patch

Tue, 08 Dec 2020 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained we give you some insight into the Australia - China relationship. Why are we fighting and why does it matter?

Bits and pieces mentioned:

China officials Afghan soldier tweet

History of Aus-China relations

Racism during COVID

The reality of China’s trade threats

Victoria and the Belt and Road Initiative

Here are some international news outlets that aren’t for the US or Europe. We recommend following these outlets on Twitter - they are active on Instagram but the content isn’t as comprehensive!

This week, Tania recommended a webpage by the Whitlam Institute at Western Sydney University that details Gough Whitlam's attempts to build diplomatic relations in the Asia-Pacific region in the 70s. Vanessa recommended an article from English language Chinese media company China Daily on an opposing view to Aus-China relations.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

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Super Dooper Annuation

Tue, 01 Dec 2020 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down superannuation - what it is, how it works and what is currently being discussed. We look about the differences in superannuation savings between genders and industries, as well as discuss the findings of the royal commission into the misconduct of financial institutions that set forth a series of recommendations to improve the superannuation sector.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

Superannuation statistics in Australia

Unpaid super in the hospitality industry

Women in super statistics

2018 poverty in retirement report

CANSTAR

This week, Tania recommended creating a MyGov account to keep track of your super fund accounts. Vanessa recommended an infographic that compares retirement funds around the world.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

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Power Play: States vs. Fed

Tue, 24 Nov 2020 11:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down our federal and state governments. We discuss what each level of government is responsible for, how they collaborate and what the current issues are regarding the separation of powers.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

Overview of Federation

Covid creating legal confusion between states and Canberra

This week, Tania recommended an article in The Conversation that breaks down the difference between COAG and the national cabinet, and highlights the strengths and weaknesses of this new approach to intergovernmental collaboration. Vanessa recommended a piece from the ABC about the once possibility of forming a Jewish state in the Kimberleys. Wild right?

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The Mental Health System

Tue, 17 Nov 2020 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down Australia’s mental health system: the good, the bad, and where it all seems to be heading. This week, we were joined by special guest, Julia McCarthy. Julia is a psychologist with over 10 years experience, having acted as a support worker for those in juvenile detention and for families affected by the Black Saturday bushfires.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

NAIDOC week

Palyku psychiatrist and professor Helen Milroy’s research on Indigenous mental health

This week, our special guest Julia recommended Headspace, an online mental health resource for educating, seeking help and referring to services. Julia also recommended HeadtoHelp, a resource that links you to available mental health services nearby. Tania recommended a video that discusses how culture and spirituality affect Indigenous mental health and Vanessa recommended the concept of grounding, a therapeutic technique that allows you to connect to the earth.

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Class of '75 Dismissed

Tue, 10 Nov 2020 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we look back on the Whitlam dismissal 45 years later, why it was important and why it’s being discussed in 2020.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

Gough Whitlam’s infamous dismissal speech

Will Partlett’s article on the Palace Letters

This week, Tania recommended an ABC Radio podcast with journalist Alex Mann called The Eleventh, which compiles first-hand accounts of the dismissal to explain the event. Vanessa recommended the Palace Letters, which detail Governor General Sir John Kerr’s communication with Buckingham Palace about his decision to dismiss Whitlam.

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Slavery: Then and Now

Tue, 03 Nov 2020 12:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained we cover the past, present and future of slavery in Australia.

Bits and pieces mentioned:
History of slavery piece in The Conversation
The WAP (White Australia Policy)
South Sea Islanders enslaved

This week, Tania recommended the Modern Slavery Registry that keeps tracks of all the companies that have a commitment to anti-slavery. Vanessa recommended a mini documentary that speaks to experts and victims about modern slavery 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.

The Mess of Offshore Detention

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 10:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained we’re covering offshore detention - what it is, why we do it and at what cost.

Bits and pieces mentioned:
Abbott Government pays people smugglers to turn back boats
The price of detention

This week, Tania recommended two poems - “Untitled” and “The Black Kite/Deep Dark” - by Behrouz Boochani, a refugee who was previously detained on Manus Island. Vanessa recommended interviews by SBS with Navy personnel that worked on Operation Sovereign Borders.

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.

Asylum seeker? Refugee? Queue jumper?

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained we break down what exactly is an asylum seeker, what type of opportunities they have in Australia and talk about a few of the myths surrounding this issue.

Bits and pieces mentioned:
The 1951 Refugee Convention
Asylum seekers returned to Indonesia on lifeboats
University of Adelaide Refugee Study

This week, Tania recommended an article about Nhill, a little town in Western Victoria that had its economy revitalised by Burmese refugees. Vanessa recommended the refugee episode of ABC’s You Can’t Ask That, where marginalised groups are asked intrusively interesting questions.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recession in Session

Tue, 13 Oct 2020 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we talk about what recession means, why it’s happening and how it affects Aussies everywhere.

We partnered with Daniel Ortisi from The Financial Curator to deliver this podcast. The Financial Curator is a blog and Instagram on a mission to improve financial literacy by offering easy to read content on investing and finance more generally. What are you waiting for? Go follow/subscribe and get learning!!

Bits and pieces mentioned:
Pay The Rent Campaign
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations
Kevin Rudd's #MurdochRoyalCommission Petition Launch Video

This week, Daniel recommended a video called ‘How The Economic Machine Works’ that breaks down a bunch of economic concepts in a way that’s easy to understand. Tania recommended an article in The Conversation that contains some graphs that clearly map out how stimulus packages have kept Aussies afloat, yet made them scared to spend. Vanessa recommended a podcast episode from She’s on the Money that talks about safeguarding your finances during recession.

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!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Bonus Budget Breakdown

Thu, 08 Oct 2020 11:00:00 GMT

In this BONUS episode of Australia, Explained we break down the 2020 Budget - the winners, the losers and what it all means for you!

Bits and pieces mentioned:
The Guardian Budget Summary: Warning, lots of jargon
Follow Osman Faruqi on Twitter
Women and the 2020 Budget

This week, Tania recommended the ABC’s winners and losers of the budget, which also includes a tax calculator to help you determine how much money you can expect to receive over the next 5 years. Vanessa recommended a piece from the Quarterly Essay about how the idea of trickle down growth has made Aussies poorer.

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Whose News Is It Anyway?

Tue, 06 Oct 2020 07:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we break down who owns what news media in Australia, why it's important to know, and why it's being talked about right now.

Bits and pieces mentioned:

A list of Rupert Murdoch + NewsCorps’s assets

Government scraps media ownership laws

Kevin Rudd calls out Rupert Murdoch

This week, Tania recommended The Rise of the Murdoch Dynasty, a 3 part documentary on ABC iView covering the history and scandals of the Murdoch family. Vanessa recommended Neel Kolhatkar’s YouTube skit Australian Media in 2 minutes, a funny impersonation of our media landscape. Warning, this one does contain explicit language.

We also promised you all a list of our favourite independent media outlets. Here is that list!

Websites: ABC News, The Saturday Paper, The Guardian AU, The Conversation AU, SBS News, Crikey News, Eureka Street, The New Matilda, Mumbrella.

Instagrams: @thedailyaus, @thesquiz, @crikey.news, @satpaper, @guardianaustralia, @abcnews_au and most importantly, @australiaexplainedpod!!

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

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Welcome to Australia, Explained!

Sun, 04 Oct 2020 06:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Australia, Explained, we introduce the voices behind the podcast and talk a little bit about why we started it in the first place!

Bits and pieces mentioned:

Pay The Rent Campaign

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations

Follow us for more short, sweet and simple Aussie content on Instagram & TikTok @australiaexplainedpod.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.