
The Swanston Explainer
By The Swanston Explainer
🎧 The big issues unpacked in 15-minute episodes
📚An RMIT podcast
📍 Melbourne
➡️ Follow us @swan_explainer on Instagram


Haters, Subscribers and Hypocrites: The OnlyFans Discussion
Men love to watch OnlyFans content, but hate the women that make it?
Sex workers are always in the spotlight, but the online platform OnlyFans makes it all too easy for men to spit out abuse at the women they watch with no consequences.
We dive into the impacts, reasoning and solutions to try to make sense of the hypocritical hate men give OnlyFans creators.
Host: Ruby Fox
Reporter: Ruby Parkinson
Producer: Amelia McQuoid
Series Producer: Joanna Beard
Executive Producer: Kate Arnott

Fake vs Real: The designer controversy
Early this year, Tik Tok went crazy over fake Birkin’s being sold at popular chain, Walmart. Many were stunned over its almost identical look to the real deal, others weren’t too impressed arguing that this affects the status of a bag that can retail up to 6 figures.
In this podcast, we explore how a Birkin knock-off has led to the divide between social classes and the culture behind the bag. We also explore the ethics behind fake designer items.
Host: Deanna Lotesto
Reporter: Julia Hunt
Series Producer: Rex Chard
Executive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

Digital Minimalism: Is deleting Social Media the cure for poor mental health?
Social media is often touted as being bad for mental health. However, a March study out of Belgium found that short social media detoxes didn’t really affect participants’ wellbeing. This episode explores the concept of ‘digital minimalism’, switching off the social media apps entirely, and tries to answer the question: is longer term social media abstinence a solution to self esteem issues and wellbeing, or does today’s society require the interconnectedness it provides?
Host: Amy Brook
Reporter: Emily Williams
Series Producer: Rex Chard
Executive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

Live and Loud: Is St Kilda's live music scene on life support?
From the historic Espy to the little venues tucked away in back streets, St Kilda has always been Melbourne's home of live music.
But with the cost of living crisis, more and more venues are struggling to get customers and bands are feeling the pinch.
Reporter: Thomas Stock
Series Producer: Alexandra Mulcaster
Executive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

The AFL's Biggest Scandals
A dive into some of the AFL's biggest scandals and the players involved.
We explore how times have changed, with the powerful presence of social media causing detrimental to those in the limelight.
We speak to players from the past and present to gain some unique perspectives from those who have experienced it firsthand.
Host: Will Dunlop
Reporter: Saskia Turner
Producer: Jack Sutton
Series Producer: Joanna Beard
Executive Producer: Kate Arnott

Concussion in Sports: The Epidemic!
A knock to the head isn't just a bump — it can end a career.
Concussion is now front and centre in sport, from the pros to the juniors. Athletes are retiring early, brain injuries are being uncovered, and leagues are racing to change protocols before it’s too late.
More research, stricter rules, and better education are leading the charge — but the time to act is now.
Let’s use the knowledge we have, to protect our players before the damage is done.
Host: Maddison Cutajar
Reporting: Grace Boyd
Producer: Zac Fahey
Series Producer: Louis Harrison
Executive Producer: Kate Arnott

Adolecense and The Rising Tide of Misogyny in Young Men
In this episode we breakdown the rise of the Incel movement and its worrying influence on young men through the new Netflix drama, Adolecence.
Host: Orlando Cox
Reporter: Dash Spencer-White
Producer: James Payne
Series Producer: Rex Chard
Executive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

All Beef and No Bull: Trump's tariffs on the Australian beef market.
On April 2nd, when US President Donald Trump announced his sweeping economic policy, essentially isolating the United States from the rest of the world, he singled out one specific industry as the reason behind what he called, "reciprocal tariffs" for Australian trade.
Despite the endless criticism towards the policy, and how his alleged desired affects of bringing production back to America is likely not going to be achieved through it, there's still a lot more that doesn't make sense.
Why does he consider the tariff reciprocal in the first place? Join Patrick Lyne and Alexander Scott as they unpack the proverbial minced meat that this policy is, and how exactly Australians and US consumers are going to deal with it.
Host: Patrick Lyne
Reporter: Alexander Scott
Series Producer: Alexandra Mulcaster
Executive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

Why Young Australians Are Putting Down the Bottle
Young Australians are drinking less than ever before. Many of them are choosing to put down the bottle entirely.
We spoke to two young Australians about why they don't drink, and discussed the different reasons why young people aren't drinking.
Whether it's having hangovers so bad they never drink again, cost of living pressures and alcohol tax combining to create a cost of beer crisis, or an increase in illicit drug use.
Host: Jack Larkin
Reporter: Matilda Prelec
Producer: Hayley Archer
Series Producer: Joanna Beard
Executive Producer: Kate Arnott

The Wedding Tax
Amid a cost-of-living crisis, young Aussie couples are feeling the pressure-especially when it comes to planning a wedding.
With the average cost hitting $41,400 in 2024 and the dreaded “wedding tax” inflating prices, many are forced to rethink how (and if) they’ll tie the knot.
In this episode, we unpack the financial strain, explore why you’re told not to mention it’s a wedding, and ask: Is love really worth the price tag?
Host: Charlie Kondos
Reporting: Lucy Donnelly
Producer: Aisha Ambesi
Series Producer: Louis Harrison
Executive Producer: Kate Arnott

Brainrot in Politics: How are parties targetting young voters?
From the increasing use of viral memes and pop culture references made by political parties, to collaborations with influencers like Abbie Chatfield - political messaging and entertainment are increasingly intertwining.
Join Edie Williamson and Julia Sicilia as they dissect how digital culture is reshaping the democratic conversation in Australia.
Host/Producer: Edie Williamson
Reporter/Producer: Julia Sicilia
Series Producer: Alexandra Mulcaster
Executive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

A24: from indie to industry leader
What was once considered a small indie film distributor, production company A24 has redefined what it means to be mainstream in the film industry. Gaining attention with films like Spring Breakers and Moonlight, it quickly carved out a niche for innovative, risk-taking storytelling.
Over the years, A24 expanded into television and production, becoming synonymous with high-quality, unconventional stories. Its success with award-winning projects and cult favourites like Hereditary and Everything Everywhere All at Once cemented its reputation as a powerhouse in the film industry, reshaping modern entertainment.
Host: Anthea Kalathas
Reporter: Jade Nacionales
Series Producer: Rex Chard
Executive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

The Devastating Impact of 'Red Pill' Content
A new Netflix series called 'Adolescence' has brought to light the dangers of 'red pill' content and how it's effecting the behaviours of young men.
On this week's podcast, Mackenzie and Skye will discuss the ins and outs of this rising culture.
Mackenzie also speaks to a domestic violence worker about how this content is affecting society.
Host: Mackenzie Mitchell
Reporter: Skye Fenton
Producer: Tayla Gofton
Series producer: Joanna Beard
Executive producer: Kate Arnott

"I'm wearing Versace": Luxury Down Under?
With Donatella Versace stepping down as Versace’s Creative Director, a position which she had held for nearly 30 years after her brother Gianni's passing, the future of the brand has been a hot topic.
With the news that Prada has now acquired Versace from Capri Holdings, fashion designer Dario Vitale will take over Donatella’s former role.
In the wake of this, we spoke to RMIT Senior Lecturer at the School of Fashions and Textiles, Harriet Richard,s to discuss the state of luxury in global but also Australian contexts.
Host: Ava Ross
Reporting: Eva Ramos
Producer: Astra Yol
Series Producer: Louis Harrison
Executive Producer: Kate Arnott

Wellness Influencers: Do they do more harm than good?
For years social media influencers have posted their advice and healthy recipes to help people engage with their physical health.
However, sometimes influencers are not who they say they are and most likely can't offer professional medical advice.
Our podcast will delve into the dangers of listening to online health information and Belle Gibson's horrific impact on those suffering from cancer.
As Netflix's hit show Apple Cider Vinegar re-opened the disturbing conversation about trusting online health influencers, we will unpack Gibson's cancer lie and how to go about listening to online medical advice.
Host: Nicole Manolitsas
Reporter: Ella Rusmir
Producer: Rebecca Murphy
Series Producer: Alexandra Mulcaster
Executive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

Bias & Balance: Feminism in the media mirror, do we like what we see?
In Bias & Balance, we explore how feminism is portrayed, challenged, and championed in the media—and what that means for the gender divide in society.
From film to TV, todays episode unpacks the narratives that shape public perception of gender roles, power, and progress. Is the media bridging the increasingly polarsing gap or reinforcing old lines? Join us as we discuss how digital content both reflects and reshapes the fight for equality and the responsibility they have to their viewers to educate and empower.
Host: Cass Muir
Reporter: Sophie Ciardulli
Producer: Claudia Coombe-Tennant
Series Producer: Rex Chard
Executive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

Why Are Young Men Leaning Conservative?
Following the 2025 federal election, it was made clear that Australia remains deeply divided on political issues, with a growing conservative lean among young Australian men.
On this week's podcast, we discuss the surprising rise of conservatism among Gen Z males and why it’s striking a chord.
From the influence of social media to evolving views on identity and masculinity, we unpack what's drawing a new generation to adopt traditional values and what it means for the future of politics.
Host: Annalee Daly
Reporter: Kiara Angelini
Producer: Poppy Knight
Series producer: Joanna Beard
Executive producer: Kate Arnott

HECS Decoded: Budget Impact on Student Debt
The 2025 Federal Budget will cut all outstanding HELP student debts by 20%, providing immediate relief to around 3 million Australians and addressing mounting frustration over rising indexation and the cost-of-living crisis.
While many welcome the change, critics argue it leaves deeper issues-like high university fees and repayment thresholds-unresolved and has sparked backlash from those who already paid off their loans.
Host: Zara Selmani
Reporting: Max Ecuyer
Producer: Sid Caulfield
Series Producer: Louis Harrison
Executive Producer: Kate Arnott

The Rise of New Media: How is it impacting the coverage of celebrities?
New Media has become the third sphere of dissecting celebrity culture. Created through social media audiences can offer up their own voices through established new media businesses like Deuxmoi, a popular Instagram page that releases stories about celebrities.
We cover the recent cast announcement for The Beatles film and why Daisy-Edgar Jones is saying “[she’s] worked with basically all of the internet’s boyfriends”. Listen to find out more about why New Media is changing the coverage of celebrities and why we are obsessed with it!
Host: Sarsha Kerton
Reporter: Lucy Slevison
Producer: Lucy Muscat
Series Producer: Rex Chard
Executive Producer: Janak Rogers and Kate Arnott

Victorian Bail Laws: Are they actually protecting Victorians?
In this episode of The Swanston Explainer, we break down Victoria’s tough new bail laws and their impact two months on.
Reporter Mia Branda-Pavlakis joins Brandon Tripptree to unpack community reactions, expert concerns, and the political pressure behind the changes.
With insights from Dr Kathryn Daley, we explore how the laws affect vulnerable groups, particularly youth, women, and Indigenous communities.
Are these reforms about safety—or politics? Tune in for a deep dive into one of Victoria’s most controversial policies.
Host: Brandon Tripptree
Reporter: Mia Branda-Pavlakis
Producer: Bill Teuma
Series Producer: Alexandra Mulcaster
Executive Producers: Kate Arnott and Janak Rogers

Who, What, When, Where, Why: Egg Shortage
Empty supermarket shelves and rising prices have become the norm for Victorian shoppers due to egg shortages caused by avian flu.
The avian influenza outbreaks have led to the culling of millions of hens and is worsened by high seasonal demand and shifts in farming practices.
Major retailers like Coles and Woolworths have imposed purchase limits, while local grocers may offer better availability.
We spoke to Josh Murray, the founder of Josh’s Rainbow Eggs to unpack the story from a farmer’s perspective.
Host: Precious Idika
Reporting: Eugenie Dixon
Producer: James Bell
Series producer: Joanna Beard
Executive producer: Kate Arnott

Australia's Cost Of Living Crisis and It's Influence on University Students
From rising costs in groceries to increases in the housing market, the cost of living is affecting everyone.
Our podcast will discuss the effects that the cost of living is having on university students, as they are often overlooked. We discuss the physical, mental and social impacts that the cost of living is having on students.
Through speaking to students, we have gained first-hand insight into life as a university student trying to balance the cost of living, education, and a social life.
In this podcast, we also touch on the promised HECs cuts by Labor and how this may benefit students.
Host: Mia Cutugno
Reporting: Riley Dezelak
Producer: Peace Ijiyera
Series producer: Louis Harrison
Executive producer: Kate Arnott

The state of basketball in Australia
Basketball in Australia continues to rise each year. Now the second most played sport for kids in the country. Becasuse of this, Basketball Australia devised a 4 year strategic plan in order to capitlise on this growing success. There are more Australians in both the NBA and WNBA, the number one pick in this years NBA draft chose to come down under instead of the traditional college route and continued international success (olympics). With all signs pointing in the right direction, has the plan been a success or does the sport still have a long way to go to reach the top in this sport saturated country.

What's behind the factory fires in Melbourne's West?
There has been a spate of chemical factory fires in Melbourne's west. In July alone, there was a massive fire explosion in Derrimut followed by another in the neighbouring suburb of Deer Park just days later. It's led concerned residents to call on the government and the EPA to take action.
Host Matthew Younan and reporter Mel Bakewell investigate.

How Sapphic Music Became a Global Sensation
Artists like Chappell Roan, Renee Rapp and Charlie XCX are singing and collaborating on music that embraces queer, specifically sapphic, sexuality. This wasn’t always the case, with artists historically having to hide their sexuality, and even in the early 2010’s, queer artists were being subtle about their queerness. So, how did the explosion of queer and sapphic music come about?
Host Lily Beamish and reporter Seena Katayama investigate.

Brisbane Olympics 2032 - is it worth it?
The 2032 Brisbane Olympics are projected to cost $7 billion AUD, sparking debates about whether it's too expensive. With past Olympics often exceeding budgets, could Brisbane face the same issue? Supporters say infrastructure upgrades and tourism will justify the investment, but will taxpayers feel the strain? As the budget grows, so do the questions about the event's true value.
Host Alex Cameron and reporter Archie Bear investigate.

A Culture of Silence: Tackling Homophobia in the AFL
The AFL is deeply woven into the fabric of Australia’s history, culture and sense of national identity, encapsulating positive qualities of connection, competition and tradition.
However, when Port Adelaide player Jeremy Finlayson received a three-match ban for using a homophobic slur in early April, it sparked renewed debate over the culture of homophobia that pervades the beloved sport and the AFL’s seemingly inconsistent policing of such discrimination.
The fact remains: there is not a single LGBTQ+ identifying player in the league. How can we change this culture of silence?
Host - Kristy Nicolaou
Reporter- Ben Lawson
Producer - Laura Jarvis
Series Producer - Sophia Grant
Image credit - Cecile Bomstad on Unsplash

Overcharging and Undercompensating: How Australian Supermarkets Exploit Farmers and Overcharge Consumers
Australia's leading supermarkets, Coles and Woolworths, are under fire after being called out for engaging in price gouging practices.
In-store prices are reaching an all time high, but local farmers are struggling the most.
Despite farmers' efforts to feed Australian families, supermarkets are not providing the adequate compensation they need to survive.
So what does this mean for our farming industry?
Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or head to the link in our bio
Host - Keely Forbes
Reporter's - Marquise Dale
Producer - Alyssa Fraser
Series Producer - Molly Inglis
Image Credit- Adobe Stock

Thrifting: sustainable or consumerist?
Has thrifting a once sustainable practice, just become another way to feed the consumption machine?
This episode unpacks the trend of second-hand goods, the pressures of social media, Depop re-sellers and the major jump in prices across all opportunity shops.
The second-hand market is expected to increase by 126% by 2026, this is three times faster than the global apparel market.
So, it’s clear thrifting is here to stay and societies issues with over consumption are too.
Host - Rani Fletcher
Reporter - Mika Gerrish
Producer - Natalie Flemming
Series Producer - Sophia Grant
Image Credit - Sophia Grant

The Games Go Green: Sustainability of the Olympic Games Revealed
The Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games are back, set to takeover Paris in July - and for the first time in eight years, they'll be full-scale events, no longer restricted by the implications of the Covid-19 pandemic.
New venues have been constructed to facilitate thousands of athletes as millions of fans flock to France for the competition. There's no refuting the grand scale of the production.
But it raises the question, can Games of this magnitude ever truly be sustainable?
Join Tara Clifford, Thomas Colasante, and special guest Dr. Myla Andamon as they explore how the International Olympic Committee is investing in green initiatives, and whether it's enough to combat climate change.
Plus, a deep-dive into what the future of the Olympics will look like as a result.
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Host: Tara Clifford
Reporter: Thomas Colasante
Producer: Yvette Campitelli-Slee
Series Producer: Grace Frost

Survival or Crime?: The Ethics of Shoplifting in a Cost of Living Crisis
To steal or not to steal?
For many Australians, staying above the poverty line is a full time job.
With the cost of living crisis raging, the pressure of arguably unreasonably high prices for grocery staples has come under fire, with Australia's major supermarket chains being accused of price gauging.
Is it fair for for those facing financial pressure to take from supermarket chains, arguably stealing from them?
Piper Wright and Taylah Sadgrove unpack the ethics surrounding stealing and speak with regular shoplifters to give you answers to this multifaceted issue.
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Host: Piper Wright
Reporter: Taylah Sadgrove
Producer: Maxi Sam-Morris
Assistant Producer: Taylah Sadgrove
Series Producer: Grace Frost

Harmful or Life-Saving?: The Future of Pill Testing in Victoria
Join reporter Alexander Masterson as he unpacks the pressing debate on pill testing with host Alexandra Lehmann, diving into the contention surrounding harm-reduction strategies.
The episode follows a suspected overdose at the Pitch festival, with Greens senator Aiv Puglielli urging the Victorian Government to respond to alarming illicit drug use findings.
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Host: Alexandra Lehmann
Reporter: Alexander Masterson
Producer: Ting Chang (Jason) Lim
Series Producer: Grace Frost

The Age of Ozempic: Changing the Face of Weight Loss
Thinking of taking Ozempic? Here's everything you need to know.
You might have heard of Ozempic - the revolutionary drug originally developed for type 2 diabetes that's now changing the face of weight loss and challenging perceptions of food.
Its popularity is skyrocketing, fuelled by social media buzz and celebrity endorsements.
Join us as we delve into the personal impacts of Ozempic, exploring not only stories of transformation but the broader socio-economic implications of this ground-breaking drug as it continues to gain momentum.
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Host: Zakai Boutkan-sparkes
Reporter: David Allen
Producer: Abdulrahman Abdulkader
Series Producer: Grace Frost

The Legalising Cannabis Bill 2023: What this could mean for Australians
Marijuana, or cannabis, is illegal for use or trade in Australia. However Cannabis has been decriminalised in Canberra, but not throughout the rest of the country.
A new bill titled the Legalising Cannabis Bill 2023 could change this.
If passed, the 2023 bill will legalise cannabis for recreational use in Australia. The bill is currently awaiting the reporting date, May 31.
Until the reporting date, it’s important to discuss what this legalisation could look like in Australia.
More specifically, how it will be regulated, what it will do for our economy, and more in today's episode.
Host - Aleyna Ozsoy
Reporter's - Sienna Seychell and Emma Sampson
Producer - Justin Schwarze
Series Producer - Molly Inglis
Image Credit- CRYSTALWEED Cannabis on Unsplash

Dating in the age of the Internet: Love and Loneliness
On Valentine's Day 2024, a class action was filed against Match Group, the company responsible for dating apps such as Hinge, Tinder and OkCupid.
The Class Action Lawsuit claims the apps are purposefully designed to be addictive. The lawsuit notes that the company profits from a predatory business model that transforms looking for love into something similar to a gambling addiction.
In this episode, we dive into all things love. Can you find love on the internet? Can romance that blossomed on Tinder be just as strong as your typical 'meet cute'?
Are we better off ditching the apps and taking up more hobbies to meet people the good old natural way? Do dating apps just make us more miserable?
Host: Hannah Robbins
Reporter: Galen Sullivan
Producer: Beatrice Tan
Image credit - Unsplash
Follow us on Instagram @swan_explainer

Terrorism: What Makes It?
On April 13th a man entered the Westfield at Bondi Junction and killed 6 people. On April 15th a teenager allegedly stabbed a church Bishop during a livestream.
Only one of these attacks was considered terrorism. Where can we draw the line on ideology?
This podcast contains discussion of terrorist attacks both current and in Australia’s past, as well as domestic violence. These topics can be distressing for some listeners
If you or someone you know needs help, call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or 1800RESPECT
Host: Nyah Barnes
Reporter: Liam Cole
Producer: Victoria Bailey
Series Producer: Molly Inglis
Image Credit - Adobe Stock

The Zero Waste movement: How you can live it.
So much in our world goes to waste. From the food we eat, clothes we wear and even our energy. It's getting to the point where our actions can be irreversible.
However, there is hope all thanks to the zero waste movement.
With a chat to a pioneer in the space, Joost Bakker, who is behind zero-waste creations such as The Future Food System. Find out how you can take those small steps to lead a more sustainable lifestyle.
Host: Isaac Haber
Reporter: Matilda McDermott
Producer: Jack Huggett
Series Producer: Molly Inglis
Image Credit - Dan Bushaway, Champ magazine
Follow us on Instagram @swan_explainer

Fantasy vs Reality: Does Romanticising Your Life Aid Struggles in a Cost of Living Crisis?
Discover the magic of romanticising your life in our latest podcast.
We delve into the history and concept of romanticism, exploring how this mindset can transform daily routines.
Interviewing Melbournians, we uncover their views on whether romanticising life offers a meaningful escape or practical solution during the cost of living crisis.
Tune in to learn how to infuse beauty into the mundane and assess if it truly helps ease financial pressures.
Host: Thomas Williamson
Reporter: Chelsea Szabo
Producer:Charlotte Wilkes
Series Producer: Molly Inglis
Image Credit - Adobe Stock
Follow us on Instagram @swan_explainer

Head in the Game: Mental Health in Sport
The life of an athlete is extraordinary. A fast-paced lifestyle, with accolades and sponsorships. Incredible opportunities to show off talent and hard work. However, this profession comes with many challenges, often manifested in mental health issues. With more and more athletes becoming outspoken about their own internal struggles, what about their job causes these hits to mental health and what is currently being done to support them?

Neo-Nazis in Victoria: From Parliament Steps to Sunshine West
The Nazi salute has been banned in Victoria following multiple displays across the state, with a federal ban soon to arrive. But with neo-Nazis marching once again, this time in Ballarat, Penry Buckley and Edmund Coleman take you through the apparent ‘rise’ of the far-right in Victoria: How has it expanded post-pandemic? Where is its base? Who opposes it? And what is the government doing about it?
This episode was researched, recorded and produced on Wurundjeri land.

The Come Down: Revisiting SSRI withdrawal in 2023
Ruth McHugh-Dillon, Annabel Fleming and Niamh Sutton explore the launch of SSRI drugs. Revolutionised treatment for depression, anxiety and other mental health issues, but how are these drugs affecting the body?

Australia prepares for the imminent consequences of the Varroa mite
Madi Lo-Booth and Sydney Lang present The Varroa mite, or Varroa destructor. It is a parasitic mite that affects European Honey Bees. In 2022, the parasite reached Australian shores for the first time, prior to this, Australia was the only continent in the world unaffected by the mite. Whilst the mite hasn’t been seen in Victoria yet, the recent decision to shift from eradication to management may see the mite cross the border into Victoria.

Donald Trump’s Mugshot and indictments: Everything you need to know
Laura Costello and Dechlan Brennan discuss and breakdown the legal battles that former president Donald Trump is currently facing, and how his legal issues are impacting his 2024 presidential campaign.

How Compulsory Unpaid Internships Are Troubling Australian Students.
Australian students who are studying a range of vocational degrees such as nursing, social work, teaching, counselling and psychology are forced to undertake hours of unpaid placements as a part of their study. However, due to the rising cost of living, the amount of hours they are forced to spend at their placement is often unviable for students trying to support themselves. Many don’t have time to work enough to earn the money they need to support themselves, leading to pontentially dropout of specific courses.
Ciara Duffy - Quinn
Maya Duggan
Tim MacDougall
Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty

The Future of Film
When was the last time you watched a DVD? Enter your own world of nostalgia but be careful, what was once the generic way to watch a movie is now outdated. After Netflix's recent decision to stop its DVD mailing service after 25 years, it seems that putting on a physical DVD is a thing of the past. This podcast delves into the transition from physical DVD stores to the rise of streaming services and explores how technology has revolutionised the way we enjoy watching film.
Sarah Hadeed
Lily Kristanto
Dylan Beaumont
Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty

How would a TikTok ban affect small businesses and influencers?
TikTok quickly shot into the spotlight a couple of years ago and has since become the most popular social media among Gen Z. However, concerns have been raised over its safety due to data sharing, and possible connections to the Chinese Government. Over the past few weeks the app has been banned from federal government devices across Australia, following similar actions across the UK, Canada, France and New Zealand. As restrictions tighten, the threat of the app being banned across the country is looming. But what does that mean for you? And more importantly, what does that mean for small businesses that rely on the app for their livelihoods?
Host: Tom Ingleton
Reporter: Ben Astell
Producer: Alexandra Bloom
Series producer: Sabrina Caires

AUKUS: What Is It? And Why Has It Caused So Much Controversy?
AUKUS is a military alliance between Australia, the UK, and the US that was originally agreed upon in 2021.
The deal will see the three countries collaborate their resources and information to design a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines. The deal is projected to cost the Australian Government upwards of $300 Billion AUD.
The deal has since been criticized by multiple sources, including; France, China, and the Australian Public. Australian Defense Strategist, Hugh White, sheds some light on the topic.

World Athletics' Ban on Transgender Athletes in Sport
As the 2024 Olympics slowly loom upon us, sport has again become divided over inclusiveness. In its announcement, governing body of World Athletics has tightened their policy and effectively banned transgender women from participating in elite track and field competitions.
This divide has posed questions surrounding the science of the ban: is the science actually based on evidence? Won't this hinder research on the athletic performance of transgender women?

The Ethics of using Artificial Intelligence in Education
ChatGPT is on the tip of everyone's tongue. It's the talk around town, and its advancement doesn't seem to be slowing down.
What does this mean for education?
High schools are banning its use, universities are updating their assessment guidelines, and still some students can only sing its praises. As AI technology moves into the future, schools are travelling back in time to pen-and-paper exams to combat plagiarism concerns. Is there a better way forward or is it too late?
Host: Ashlynn O'Brien
Reporter: Nour Hegazy
Producer: Lily Tuck
Series producer: Sabrina Caires

The After-Life Reality of Professional Sport
With many athletes suffering from post-professional sport injuries, the rate of long term effects of concussions in those professional sports has increased. Many of these athletes struggle in their day-to-day life mentally, physically, and psychologically after they leave their respective sports. Sports psychologists who work first-hand with professional players or ex-players have a deeper understanding into why the effects of concussions affect a player’s mental and psychological well-being and their lifestyle in the long term.
Host: Yarrah Muneer
Reporter: Fereshteh Nazari
Producer: Nathan Sepe
Series producer: Sabrina Caires