The Swanston Explainer

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.

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?

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.

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.

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

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 Enter your own world of nostalgia but be careful, what was once the generic way to watch a movie is now outdated.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

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 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.

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?

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

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

The rise of Melbourne as a DIY tattoo mecca in Australia, exploring the differing opinions within the tattoo community and its relationship within the greater community.

To explore how legislation and historical forces has created the tightly-knit scene in Melbourne’s northern suburbs including the adversary some artists are facing from abandoning traditional spaces and practices.

We wish to shine a light on both sides of the industry, highlighting concerns the government, community safety and the well-established artists in the tattoo world.

You may have seen it on the news and in the hands of many, but you probably haven’t seen it on the shelves.

Prime is the drink everyone’s talking about and it’s stirring up some controversy — particularly about influencer products, their marketing, and the effect this has on its mostly young audience.

In this episode, we ask why it’s in the news, and find out what’s behind this social media craze.

Producer/Host: Stella Thomson
Producer/Reporter: Ben Richards

Living in a home off our own merit is one of the first rights of passage we cross into the world of adulting. Unfortunately, the affordability for housing among university students continues to deplete year by year with students scrambling to find solutions. Why has the economic stability of the housing market imploded like this? What can we do to help solve it for others in need? These are just some of the lingering questions that have left desperate homeowners in a hole that lacks a ladder to climb out of.

Bridget Clarke

Liam Grant

Miles Earl

Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty

Live music is a passion for so many, yet many venues fall short of providing accessible experiences for those with disabilities. Recently, Chloe Hayden, a young Australian with autism who rose to fame on tik tok and has recently been on the Netflix show ‘Heartbreak High’ spoke out about her experience with the sensory rooms at Marvel Stadium after the Harry Styles concert in February. So, music venues around Australia need to examine their current approaches to accessibility to ensure everyone is accounted for. With 1 in 6 Australians living with a disability, it's an extremely prominent audience that cannot be ignored. We'll also look at the venues and festivals who are doing accessibility right, what other venues in Australia can learn from them, and what this means going forward for the future of live music.

Oliver Winn

Ruby Reilly

Reese Mautone

Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty

Melbourne’s controversial e-scooter trial has been given extended life, expanded for six months and now includes the use of private devices. The news comes as injuries presented at Melbourne hospitals soar into the hundreds. Innocent victims are sharing their stories of being hit on city streets. This week, the Swanston Explainer examines the trial's progression, its flaws and what is being done to increase safety.

Host: Eden Hayes

Reporter: Jack Ward

Producer: Jade Egan

Series Producer: Sabrina Caires

Melbourne's International Comedy has just finished up after a month of laughs, with many newcomers and young comics making their mark on the comedy stage. In today's climate cancel culture is more prevalent than ever so comedians have to tread carefully along the line of funny or too far. We spoke to some of the Festivals debut comics as well as some familiar young faces to see how they are navigating the ups and downs of stand-up with their voices and opinions on an international stage. We also chat about recent examples of "cancelling" and what that means for the arts and comedy scene.

Host: Phoebe Billing

Journalist: Jada Cannizzo

Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty

Sleep is an essential aspect of our lives that affects our physical and mental health, productivity, and overall well-being. The conversation around sleep has become increasingly important in recent years as more research has shed light on the negative consequences of sleep deprivation and poor sleep habits. From exploring the science of sleep to discussing effective strategies for improving sleep hygiene, the topic of sleep has sparked a widespread interest and concern.

Host: Christian Montegan

Journalist: Nur Ameera Mohamed Suib

Series Producer: Macey Jayne Fogarty

Dementia is currently the second leading cause of death in Australia, with provisional data showing that dementia is likely to become the leading cause of death among Australians in the near future. In society, there seems to be a common belief that by simply listening to music can benefit dementia patients.

While there is no current cure, the combination of music therapy, interaction, and engagement has shown to be beneficial tools in helping those living with dementia. Benefits show an increase in relaxation, and a decrease in agitation and can even provoke positive emotions.

First trialed in 2018, the North Richmond safe injecting facility has passed its trial period and has been made a permanent site. The controversial safe injection rooms have many locals in uproar with them feeling their concerns have been largely unanswered. With a similar facility planned for Melbournes CBD near Queen Victoria Market, many question if the Richmond facility is a necessity. Given its close proximity to Richmond West Primary school, residents are concerned about negative impacts, including increases in discarded needles in the area.

Host: Tosh Mannion

Reporter: Helena Kayalicos

Producer: Ben Inglis

Series Producer: Sabrina Caires

Australians are notorious for their gambling and the government is trying to find solutions to drive that number of gamblers down. There have been recent legal modifications to the way gambling advertisements are presented, where gambling companies were forced to change the "Gamble responsibly" slogan to other alternatives such as "What's Gambling really costing you?" In this episode, we dive into the reasons why Aussies gamble and what makes it so attractive? We also look at the issues Australians face while gambling and the high amount of exposure it has especially on younger Australians. We also look at potential routes to improving this current issue and what others are doing to make it possible.

Reporter: Emily Williams

Host: Oliver Walker - Peel

Producer: Julian Sardana

Series Producer: Macey Fogarty

Could poo cure you of depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder?

A growing body of research suggests that it could.

In this episode, we take a look at how the gut microbiome impacts mental health, and speak to a woman who says an experimental treatment called faecal microbial transplantation cured her bipolar 1.

Host: Freddie Moffat

Reporter: Tee Mitchell

Producer: Phoebe Miller

Series Producer: Sabrina Caires

Anecdotal stories of botched cosmetic procedures have periodically appeared in the news. Why is this issue coming to a head now? Tune in with Gabrielle Petracca and Jemina Nuredini to hear more. Series produced by Benita Miciulis and Rebecca Kazmierczak.

The AFL does not pay corporate tax under an exemption clause dating back to 1936. Is this outdated in our commercialised era of sport? Afraa Kori talks to reporter Casey McCarthy. Series produced by Benita Miciulis and Rebecca Kazmierczak.

Host Alana Fernandez speaks to reporter Cody Fowler about the uncertain future of Myanmar. Series produced by Benita Miciulis and Rebecca Kazmierczak. 

COVID-19 introduced widespread effects, including on Australia's mental health; its impact felt through the effectiveness of mental health services during the pandemic. In our podcast, we explore the support provided to Australians during and after the pandemic, and how each party propose to strengthen our mental health system. By Ethan Benedicto and Rochelle Putnikovic Series Producer Sienna Taylor-Gibson

Originally a 2019 election commitment, passing a religious discrimination bill proved impossible for the last parliament.  Controversy and criticism from all sides ultimately saw the last attempt at a bill crucified in February this year.  Now, Scott Morrison has resurrected the bill in the last fortnight of the election campaign, making a renewed commitment to faith leaders.  But while Anthony Albanese also supports a bill, he says concerns remain around protections for LGBTQ youth.

We spoke to Chris Duke, Convenor of the Presbyterian Church of Victoria’s Church & Nation Committee, and Cian McCulloch, a gay man who had to leave his church community after coming out last year. Both say they’re the victim of rising prejudice in Australia, and want different things from a religious discrimination bill.  So, how does Australia’s next government uphold the rights of all Australians with the next version of the bill?  The Swanston Explainer unpacks the debate.

By Anthony Rossignuolo, Isabella Rayner and Mishelle Tongco

Series Produer Loughlin Shannon

Like 2008’s GFC, the Covid pandemic has been a major economic challenge for the Morrison Government. They say it’s one they’ve overcome, hailing Australia’s incredibly low unemployment as a sign of a successful economic recovery. But Labor says that’s not the full story, with incredibly high inflation creating cost of living challenges for many.

So how did we get here, what’s the real story, and what should happen next? We unpack the arguments and economic plans of both major parties with critical analysis from ANZ Bank’s Head of Australian Economics, David Plank & RMIT University Senior Lecturer in Economics, Leonora Risse.

By Declan Bailey and Joshua Allen

Series Producer & post production by Loughlin Patrick

There are more than two parties to keep an eye on in the 2022 Federal Election. Many Australians are feeling disenfrachised with the two major parties, and minor parties are generating support through the promotion of specific policy agendas.

In this episode, we talk to leader of the United Australia Party, Craig Kelly and leader of the Greens, Adam Bandt. We also speak to voters on why they chose to make the shift towards voting for Australia's minor parties.

By Rachel Jackson and Gabriel Mills-Connolly.

Since Melbourne has left harsh COVID-19 lock downs, live music venues have struggled to recover from the pandemic. Strict capacity restrictions have live music venues on the ropes struggling to make a profit as most venues cannot operate above 30% capacity due to density limits. Venues are calling to relax density restrictions to ensure their survival.

Worsening bushfires and habitat loss have further highlighted the importance of protecting our forests. In this podcast, we will explore two perspectives on forest management. We interview Patrick Baker, professor of silviculture at the University of Melbourne, on engaging with the land by changing the forest structure and Hailey from WOTCH, a citizen science group who survey the forests for endangered species and lobby against logging.

This year, important conversations surrounding mistreatment and abuse of women in Australian parliament and broader society have been the the forefront of media coverage and citizens minds. Various media commentators have attempted to find and pin point the exact causes of this behaviour. Today, Journalist Georgie Carroll speaks to Brigita Hare about the culture in the single sex education sector and gaps in Australian sex and relationships education, to attempt to understand what contributes to and breeds a culture of misogyny in a society.

Since the beginning of lockdown in 2020, Tinder’s swipe activity peaked and members’ matches rocketed. Dating apps’ users are willing to spend extra time and money to seek relationships. Is this the new normal for dating in Australia? What are the benefits and harms of this online dating culture? Dive in with journalist Keira Wright and Esther Cheah as they discuss the changing nature of dating in Australia and how to form healthy connections through online dating apps!

The ending of the Coronavirus Supplement on March 31 is predicted to significantly affect the lives of over a million Australians who currently receive the JobSeeker payment. The federal government has introduced a permanent fifty dollar per fortnight increase to the JobSeeker rate, but this has been criticised as being grossly inadequate and will still leave these people living well below the poverty line.

Paywalls. Online resources. Print. Radio. Video. The news has evolved and will continue to evolve as long as technology evolves, meaning the journalism and media industry will adapt in order to stay viable. One way this can be seen is paywalls online media outlets have in place, in order to make consumers pay for what they are about to read/see. In this podcast episode we discuss these paywalls and whether news should be paid for, or should be free for all.

Fashion has always played a vital role in indigenous and First Nations culture and heritage, they are however sorely underrepresented in Australia’s fashion industry. In this podcast we discuss the current Australian fashion industry, and have a chat with Indigenous designer Colleen Tighe Johnson and the work she is doing promoting indigenous fashion.

Sex education in schools has become recognized as a very important and relevant topic to students' lives as it helps develop a positive and consensual mindset to sex and relationships in that age. However, current education programs rarely or do not accommodate for people living with a disability. Join Akira Bhagawanta and Sara Lilley as they dive deeply into this topic.

In a study conducted by Chris Tisdell, an education researcher for the university of Sydney, results found that 1 in 3 students decided to discontinue their university studies in 2020. Tisdell had many interesting thoughts on the subject, and in a conversation between host Blake Gaffiero and Reporter John Thompson, we explore the various reasons why students chose not to study during the pandemic, and what the future of study could look like for students after COVID.

RMIT students have faced massive disruptions to their studies over the course of the past year due to Melbourne’s recurrent lockdowns. It’s no secret that the ongoing restrictions can have a detrimental impact on mental health, so exactly what resources are being made available to students seeking mental health support?
Join Emma Fitzgerald and Carly Douglas as they look at the supply and demand problem surrounding RMIT’s student support services and question what more can be done in the face of the looming mental health crisis.