Momentum Leaders

How can the UK and Australia deepen defence industry cooperation while balancing high-end capabilities with Ukrainian-style affordable mass?   In this episode of Momentum Media's Defence Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard during his current visit to Australia.   Minister Pollard is undertaking a broader tour of the country's defence industry and headlining the Australian British Chamber of Commerce's Defence Industry Lunch in Perth on 17 August.   The podcast conversation includes the following topics: The UK's approach to the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), Canada's new observer status and the potential for further international partners to join the program. The UK's focus on building defence capabilities with allies through shared workshares, technology and industrial cooperation. Defence technology co-development with Ukraine, including two-way intellectual property sharing and the scaling of Ukrainian and British capabilities. The role of innovation and rapidly changing electronic warfare requirements in shaping how Western militaries support Ukraine. The UK's approach to a "high-low-mid mix" of defence advanced platforms, mid-range systems and affordable mass. Opportunities for Australian defence companies to enter the UK market, including the potential integration of CEA Technologies' active electronically scanned array radar into UK capabilities.   Finally, the discussion wraps up by examining how closer UK–Australia defence industry partnerships can strengthen sovereign capability while creating skilled jobs, apprenticeships and long-term employment opportunities in both countries. Enjoy the podcast.

Dr Ross Babbage warns that without urgent economic reform and industrial recalibration, Australia risks becoming a client state of Beijing.   Returning to Momentum Media's Defence Connect Podcast, strategic analyst Dr Ross Babbage delivers an unsparing diagnosis: Australia is drifting towards a future of strategic weakness, economic vulnerability and de facto dependence on Beijing – unless the nation urgently reverses course on industrial policy, governance efficiency and the information asymmetry crippling public debate.   In a wide-ranging conversation with host Steve Kuper, Babbage articulates an emerging geopolitical fracture: the world is crystallising into distinct economic camps. The first, led by the United States and including Western democracies, is erecting selective tariffs and deepened trade ties. Camp two is China and its authoritarian satellites. A third comprises developing nations watching carefully before committing.   Australia's position, Babbage argues, remains fatefully ambiguous. While virtually every Western ally has taken protective measures against Chinese manufacturing dumping and industrial subsidy – a regime he quantifies at eight to 18 times the support other nations provide – Australia has remained conspicuously reticent. China's leverage remains decisive: our iron ore and coal exports are non-negotiable parts of Beijing's strategic calculus.   The deeper problem, he stresses, runs through economic governance itself. Australia has deindustrialised deliberately over three decades, shed critical capabilities in steel and advanced manufacturing, surrendered energy cost advantage and starved investment in domestic capability. Without deliberate recalibration – smaller government, redirection of trade partnerships, strategic investment incentives – Australia defaults towards clientelism.   Equally critical is the communication void. Defence industry leaders, board chairs of major firms and even policymakers routinely tell Babbage they were unaware of the scale of Chinese subversion, intellectual property theft and coordinated disintegration operations aimed at fracturing Western cohesion.   The path forward, he argues, demands frank public briefings, ruthless priority setting and abandonment of exhausted economic orthodoxies. Without it, Australia becomes the strategic backwater Beijing expects. Enjoy the podcast.

Traditional designs for a business's HR function often lose sight of the problems they are trying to solve and fail to tie programs to commercial outcomes. Here, we explore the need to move towards more modern, holistic thinking about the role of HR and how best to succeed in FY2026–27 and beyond.   In this episode of The HR Leader Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with We Are Charlotte founder and chief executive Jessica Trumble about what she likes about outsourced HR work as opposed to being in-house, unpacking the differences between older HR approaches and newer ones, the imperative of having a commercial mindset, taking advantage of environmental opportunities in the post-pandemic market, rethinking the function of HR, what constitutes being commercially minded, and getting business buy-in for a new approach.

Fear of missing out is back in Australia's property market. As thousands of investors rush to beat the SMSF deadline, the biggest risk isn't missing out – it's buying the wrong property in the process.   On Momentum Media's weekly property and real estate livestream, Property Buzz, Phil Tarrant was joined by Alex Whitlock to discuss the growing frenzy surrounding self-managed super funds (SMSF) and why investor urgency is creating new risks.   The pair questioned whether the race to secure finance before the borrowing ban is pushing investors into poor-quality assets, warning against letting marketing hype or tight deadlines dictate long-term investment decisions.   Attention then turned to the mortgage market, with borrowing capacities shrinking and investor activity slowing, raising fresh questions about what the next phase of lending could look like for brokers and borrowers alike.   Finally, Tarrant and Whitlock explained why investors should look beyond buyer's agents alone, arguing that local property managers can often provide some of the strongest insights into rental demand, cash flow, and the long-term fundamentals of a market.

When we think of safety concerns in aviation, it's easy to become fixated on the mechanical issues – but the human factor is also a major issue, and stress and burnout in such a high-pressure industry can only make it worse.   It's easy to ignore the early warning signs of stress and try to push through, but according to neuroscientist Annett Koenig, that can only compound the issue, leading to neurological issues that can even mirror the symptoms of epilepsy.   As engineering-related incidents continue to improve, the human factor is still lagging behind – so what kind of safety issues can stress cause, and how can they be addressed?   On Momentum Media's Australian Aviation Podcast, Jake talks to Koenig about the causes, effects, and solutions to chronic stress in the aviation sector.

As Australia faces a populist political surge and the established political parties continue to lose ground, can Australia's "sensible" centre hold, or will decades of failed policies, broken promises and declining economic opportunities finally come home to roost? In a departure from its usual international focus, Momentum Media's Contested Ground turns to domestic tensions sparked by the federal budget. The hosts argue that this has become a sustained point of public frustration rather than a short-term political issue. Hosts Phil Tarrant and Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson question whether Australia is moving away from its traditional "sensible centre" towards greater political polarisation. A central theme of the discussion is the declining level of trust between Australians and the political class. Dr Thompson argues that governments increasingly risk creating division through policies and political strategies that focus on wedge issues rather than building consensus. The conversation references debates, including the Voice referendum and responses to international crises, as examples of issues that have contributed to heightened social tension. The discussion also turns to housing, taxation and the economic pressures facing younger Australians. Tarrant raises concerns that government policy settings, including changes affecting self-managed super funds and capital gains tax arrangements, may have unintentionally reduced investment capacity and worsened housing supply pressures. The hosts question whether Australia is continuing to promote an outdated version of the "Australian Dream" while younger generations face record debt levels, higher living costs and greater financial uncertainty. Ultimately, the episode explores a bigger question: is Australia experiencing a fundamental shift in its national identity and political culture? The hosts suggest the country may be moving away from the traditional "sensible centre" that has defined much of modern Australian politics towards a more divided environment, where competing extremes increasingly dominate public debate. They warn that maintaining social cohesion will become harder if political leadership continues to prioritise short-term political advantage over long-term national unity. The episode concludes with a call for a renewed style of leadership – one focused less on political point-scoring and more on honesty, transparency and bringing Australians together to confront the economic and strategic challenges ahead. Enjoy the podcast.

How can Australia inspire more young people to pursue careers in space, STEM and national capability from an early age?   In this episode of Momentum Media's Space Connect Podcast, senior journalist Robert Dougherty is joined by Jen Malone, founder of the Young Astronauts Club Australia, during the Australian Space Summit & Exhibition 2026 in Sydney.   Malone discusses the origins of the Young Astronauts Club, how the grassroots initiative has grown into a national science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) outreach program, and why engaging children early is critical to addressing Australia's future space workforce needs.   The discussion explores education, industry collaboration and the growing opportunities across Australia's civil and defence space sectors while examining how initiatives such as Australia's astronaut program are inspiring the next generation.   The podcast conversation includes the following topics: Why Australia must inspire children to pursue STEM and space careers from an early age. Building the Young Astronauts Club and expanding opportunities for students nationwide. The importance of reaching regional and rural communities through accessible STEM education. Australia's evolving space industry, workforce shortages and emerging career pathways. The growing links between Australia's civil, commercial and defence space sectors. The inspirational impact of Australia's astronaut program and the #FlyKatherine campaign. Industry collaboration, private investment and Australia's role in the global space ecosystem. The influence of AI, emerging technologies and future lunar exploration in today's students. Plans to launch a national online Young Astronauts Club, making space education accessible regardless of postcode.   Finally, the discussion wraps up by examining the importance of family engagement, community support and creating lasting pathways that encourage young Australians to become the scientists, engineers and space professionals of the future.   Enjoy the podcast, The Space Connect team

With the clock ticking on residential SMSF lending, FOMO is taking hold, with mortgage brokers Finni reporting record inquiry levels as borrowers scramble to beat the incoming ban. Join Momentum Media, Julian Barnes (Broker Daily) and Finni brokers Eva Loisance and Costa Arvanitopoulos as they unpack the last-minute SMSF rush, the risks facing borrowers starting from scratch, and why a single delay could now derail an entire transaction.   The trio also explores how post-budget uncertainty is reshaping investor strategies, why owner-occupier suburbs are outperforming investor-heavy areas, and whether the expanded Help to Buy scheme is opening the door to home ownership or creating a new set of risks.  

Everyone wants to know why housing has become so unaffordable. But what if the policies designed to fix the crisis are actually making it worse?   On Momentum Media's unfiltered property show, Property Buzz, Phil Tarrant and Liam Garman question whether recent tax reforms, lending changes, and housing policies could have unintended consequences for investors, developers, and first home buyers alike.   From the crackdown on investor taxes to broader housing reforms, the pair examine whether the government's approach will genuinely improve affordability or simply reduce housing supply and place even more pressure on the market.   They also explore Australia's increasingly fragmented property landscape, where Sydney and Melbourne continue to soften while Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth tell a very different story, proving there is no such thing as a single Australian property market.   The conversation then shifts to the broader economy, examining how higher interest rates, persistent inflation, and growing employment uncertainty could shape borrowing power, property values, and investor confidence in the months ahead.   Finally, the duo assess the potential fallout from changes to self-managed super funds, posing one critical question: if individual investors are gradually pushed out of the market, who will fund Australia's next generation of housing?  

Many critics often describe Australia's glaring lack of industrial and economic complexity as a major national security challenge, while others see it as a glass jaw impacting our ability to sustain ourselves in a fight or crisis. So, what is needed?   This glaring gap in our national resilience and survivability has increasingly figured in commentary and analysis as the Indo-Pacific emerges as the epicentre of the 21st century's great game between great powers.   Increasingly, this issue has also figured strongly in our broader conversations with allies, most notably the United States, which is demanding that allies lift their defence spending to 5 per cent of GDP. Of that total, 3.5 per cent should be spent on military capabilities and the remaining 1.5 per cent on "enabling capabilities", including industrial capacity and infrastructure.   With Australia's defence spending in the crosshairs in more ways than one, shadow minister for industry and sovereign capability Andrew Hastie has ramped up his advocacy for Australia to reindustrialise to better enhance its national resilience and long-term economic and industrial capability and competitiveness.   Following his recent Anzac oration address to the University of Melbourne's Robert Menzies Institute, Hastie spoke with Momentum Media's  Defence Connect Podcast host Steve Kuper. The pair unpack the unique and intimate relationship between the US and Australia from the perspective of a special forces operator and how that relates to what the United States is now asking of us.   As part of this conversation, they discuss the need for a more considered industrial policy, unpacking the key hurdles that are limiting our industrial and economic competitiveness on the global stage and the pressures being faced by the allied industrial base.   The pair also unpack the economic and political opportunities that come from being a nation that, as Hastie describes, "makes things again" and how successive Australian governments have failed to capitalise on these opportunities to boost productivity, competitiveness and industrial capacity.   Additionally, they examine models of success, what Australia can learn from friends and foes alike, and embracing serious, considered and agile economic reform, including building and rewarding a more risk-accepting culture as a means of propelling the nation forward and finally breaking the shackles of the cultural dominance of tall poppy syndrome.

Most property managers focus on rent collection and compliance, but the agencies growing the fastest are helping investors increase returns, build wealth, and uncover value most landlords don't even realise they're missing.   On Momentum Media's real estate-focused Property Management Excellence (PMX) podcast, Alex Whitlock sits down with Bradley Beer, CEO of BMT Tax Depreciation, to explore one of the most overlooked opportunities in property management and why helping investors grow wealth could be the industry's biggest competitive advantage.   Beer argues that property managers and investors share the same goal: building wealth. Yet many agencies still struggle to demonstrate value beyond managing tenancies.   The duo highlights how simple conversations around tax depreciation, rental strategy, maintenance planning, and portfolio performance can strengthen client relationships.   Beer reveals that many property investors are still leaving thousands of dollars on the table every year by failing to claim depreciation, despite the average first-year deduction from BMT schedules sitting around $12,000.   The pair also discuss the growing pressure on fees and why agencies that position themselves as wealth partners rather than rent collectors are far more likely to defend their pricing, improve retention, and grow their rent rolls.  

The budget fallout has begun. With one of Australia's largest buyer's agencies collapsing and consumer confidence disappearing, are there still opportunities in the market?   On Momentum's Property Buzz, hosts Phil Tarrant and Liam Garman break down the growing chaos hitting Australia's property market, from collapsing auction clearance rates and rising investor panic to the turmoil now ripping through the buyer's agency sector.   In Sydney, the auction market has fallen to COVID-19-era lows, with more homes now passing in than selling as buyer confidence weakens and uncertainty continues to build. But will increasing yields now reverse this trend?   The duo also explore the collapse of buyer's agency Dashdot, highlighting how rising client acquisition costs, weaker sentiment, and tightening lending conditions are placing enormous pressure on property businesses across the country.   Additionally, hanging over the entire market are the proposed changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax, reforms that could slash borrowing capacity, tighten rental supply and dramatically reshape how Australians invest in property.   The pressure is building quickly, and while emotional investors react to fear and headlines, strategic investors will be best positioned when the market stabilises.

Many agencies chase growth at any cost, but rapid expansion without structure can create churn and poor service outcomes. On The Property Management Excellence (PMX) Podcast, Momentum Media's podcast brand focused on real estate property management, Managed co-founder and host Alex Whitlock speaks with Active Agents principal Tara Bradbury about building a 400-plus property rent roll in Hervey Bay through sustainable growth, strong systems and client focus.   Bradbury explains how technology helped her launch the business in 2019, removing traditional trust accounting pressures and allowing her to focus on service and growth.   The conversation also explores rising expectations from both landlords and tenants, with property managers now balancing compliance, communication, and increasingly complex client demands.   A key highlight is Bradbury's flat-fee pricing model, which moves away from percentage-based fees in favour of transparency, fairness, and long-term profitability.   For agencies looking to scale, the episode is a reminder that success is not just about size, but structure, value, and consistency.    

When airline Bonza burst onto the scene in 2023 with its bright purple tails, its budgie smugglers, and its unique "point-to-point" business strategy, the scrappy start-up airline – and its chief executive Tim Jordan – looked to be sparking a revolution in the domestic market.   Just over a year later, however, the lofty goal of being "here for Allstralia" lay in ruins, with Bonza's financier 777 Partners abruptly pulling funding and letting its aircraft be repossessed, leaving Jordan and the rest of the airline's staff and passengers holding the bag.   It's easy in hindsight to say that the idea was doomed from the start, that there was no market for Bonza's idea of connecting regional centres and holiday destinations without connecting through big hubs, but according to Jordan, that's far from the real story.   In this exclusive interview with the Australian Aviation Podcast, his first since his airline's collapse, Jordan tells Jake Nelson how the Bonza dream turned into a nightmare – and why he still thinks there's room for more domestic airlines in Australia's skies.

In the face of widespread adoption and utilisation of new technologies, there is much that lawyers across the board must take into account when using AI, from client confidentiality to guidance from the courts.   In this episode of Momentum Media's Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Mills Oakley partner Dalvin Chien to discuss why lawyers must care about ongoing tech developments, guidance that has been issued to and from the profession recently about AI use and what such guidance means, the importance of in-house policies for AI use, and the real-world problems that practitioners face when using AI in practice.   Chien also gets into what we've learnt from headline instances of AI use in recent times, practical steps to ensure responsible and effective use of AI tools, the best ways to boost productivity and client service delivery, the need for good training, and how the day-to-day roles of lawyers coming through the ranks will continue to evolve.

Most investors blame the economy for slow growth – but the real problem is poor strategy, misunderstood borrowing power, and holding the wrong assets for too long.   On Momentum Media's Smart Property Investment Show, host Liam Garman sits down with Arjun Paliwal, CEO of InvestorKit, to discuss why macro fear is distracting investors from the decisions that actually drive portfolio growth.   Paliwal argues that while many wait for rates to fall, top investors focus on micro-decisions – the small moves that improve borrowing capacity and unlock momentum now.   He reveals how overlooked factors, such as credit limits and living expenses, quietly restrict how far investors can scale.   The duo also breaks down why holding the wrong property can stall growth and how strategic selling can free up capital and accelerate portfolio growth.   According to Garman and Paliwal, the takeaway is simple: property itself isn't the strategy; it's how you use it that determines whether you grow or stay stuck. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts and by following Smart Property Investment on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you would like to get in touch with our team, email [email protected] for more insights, or hear your voice on the show by recording a question below.

In this special episode of Momentum Media's The Smart Property Investment Show, hosts Phil Tarrant and Liam Garman unpack the external forces shaking Australia's property market, from social media influence to rising fuel costs and policy changes. They explore how digital platforms are becoming powerful tools for building personal brands and expanding reach in the real estate industry. Tarrant shares how leveraging social media and collaborating with industry leaders is helping drive engagement and influence across the sector. Beyond digital strategy, the conversation turns to rising diesel prices and their broader impact on inflation, interest rates, and the cost of living. The pair also break down the Reserve Bank of Australia's rate hikes, arguing they are largely driven by domestic economic pressures rather than global events. They stress the importance of separating short-term tactics from long-term strategies when making property investment decisions. Government intervention is another key focus, with new taxes and regulatory changes in states like Victoria and NSW raising concerns for investors. Tarrant and Garman question whether these policies could discourage investment and create unintended consequences across the market. Ultimately, the episode reinforces the need for resilience, with investors encouraged to build strong, adaptable portfolios that can withstand ongoing economic and policy uncertainty.

In this episode of Momentum Media's Contested Ground Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Steve Kuper and Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson unpack the concept of sovereign industrial capability and its growing importance amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.   The trio explore how the idea of sovereignty has evolved from a defence-specific concept into a broader national priority, particularly as global supply chains face disruption and Australia confronts its structural dependencies.   They discuss the lack of a clear, shared definition of sovereign capability, and how misunderstandings persist even within defence and national security circles.   The conversation highlights the need for Australia to identify and secure critical capabilities domestically, ranging from fuel and logistics to data and cyber resilience.   The episode also reflects on lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and questions whether Australia has made meaningful progress in strengthening self-reliance, or if it remains vulnerable to external shocks.   With rising geopolitical tensions and shifting global dynamics, the speakers consider whether the era of globalisation is reaching its limits.   These topics include engaging discussion across: The meaning (and ambiguity) of sovereign industrial capability in modern Australia. Lessons from COVID-19 and ongoing reliance on fragile global supply chains. The impact of geopolitical conflict on fuel security, logistics and economic stability. The challenge of building true national resilience versus shifting dependence. The role of political leadership and decision making in shaping sovereign capability. The effects of political fragmentation and polarisation on national security planning. Whether globalisation has reached its limits and the rise of nationalism. The practical components of sovereignty, including fuel, munitions, cyber resilience and industrial capacity. Enjoy the podcast!

What does the war in Iran have to do with Australian housing? Potentially, everything. In this bold episode of Momentum Media's Contested Ground Podcast, Phillip Tarrant, Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson and leading real estate commentator Tom Panos unpack one of the most overlooked questions in Australia right now: how escalating conflict in the Middle East could reshape the nation's property market.   From fuel prices, inflation and interest rates to rents, construction costs, investor confidence and housing supply, this is a serious attempt to connect global conflict with local property pain (or, maybe, opportunity). The conversation explores whether Australia's real estate market is resilient enough to withstand another major shock, what it means for home owners and investors, and why the consequences of war can hit far closer to home than many realise.   This is not just a discussion about foreign affairs. This podcast episode is sharp, original and one of the first serious efforts to examine how geopolitics could directly shape the future of Australian housing. Enjoy the podcast!

Australia has long prided itself on being the "Lucky Country", celebrating a culture of "she'll be right" now that a national culture of apathy is biting at home as the world continues to burn.   As the war in the Middle East continues to rage by the day, Australia and Australians are beginning to feel the very real ramifications in our daily lives.   All of this comes as Australia's political leaders and policymakers continue to point fingers at one another for the respective failures over the past three decades that have all combined to leave Australia dangerously exposed to the shocks of the new multipolar world.   But these aren't the only challenges that are serving to leave Australia in a volatile, unpredictable position, as social cohesion, industrial and economic resilience and demographics combine to create a powder keg for both the public and its policymakers.   Contested Ground host Steve Kuper is joined by Ben Dullroy of Beaten Zone Venture Partners and Bravo Delta Advisory as they break down the combination of global and domestic factors shaping the nation's resilience, stability and security.   This conversation comes at a time when the public and private debate continues about who has failed the nation, were the ultimate costs of neoliberal hyperglobalisation worth it and can we pivot quickly enough to secure our economic, political and strategic interests? Enjoy the podcast.

In this episode of Momentum Media's Broker Daily Uncut, host Julian Barnes is joined by Finni brokers Eva Loisance and Costa Arvanitopoulos to unpack the latest shifts across housing and lending. The panel explores slowing price growth, affordability pressures, and changing buyer behaviour, as demand shifts toward more accessible property types and markets. They also touch on lender trends, serviceability challenges, and the growing role of non-majors.   Loisance, Arvanitopoulos, and Barnes then move on to examine the rise of sophisticated scams targeting borrowers, raising new concerns around trust and verification in an increasingly digital landscape.   Rounding things off, the trio looks at the lender market and which banks and non-banks are performing well from a broker's perspective.

On the episode of Momentum Media's Under The Hood podcast, host Imogen Wilson is joined in the studio by accounting practice coach, Amanda Gascoigne, to break down what it truly means to embody "better practice, better life".   Tune in to hear more about: Amanda's career journey and how she got to where she is today. Why coaches and mentors are key in helping practice owners achieve success. How the accounting industry has changed over the last 27 years. The benefits of reaching out for help. Amanda's key roles as part of the GST Stewardship Group and TPB Board. Enjoy the podcast!

In this week's episode of Momentum Media's Business Accelerator, Alex Whitlock and Jason Back examine the hidden cost of neglected business hygiene, from outdated branding and inactive social channels to inconsistent messaging across platforms. As consumer behaviour shifts from word-of-mouth discovery to word-of-mouth validation, they discuss why brokers are increasingly judged on what clients see online before making contact. Dormant LinkedIn profiles, stale websites, mismatched imagery, and fragmented branding can quietly erode trust, and you may never know you lost the deal.   The episode outlines how to conduct a practical business hygiene audit, assess whether your digital presence builds confidence, and decide which platforms genuinely deserve your focus.   Tune in to learn how tightening up the small details can protect credibility, support referrals, and ensure your business remains visible and relevant in 2026.

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Secrets of the Top 100 podcast, deputy editor Emilie Lauer sits down with Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo, chief economist at PRD, to discuss how real estate agents can harness data to grow their footprint.   Dr Mardiasmo unpacks how the explosion of accessible data has changed the balance of power between agents and consumers. Where market intelligence once came from industry knowledge, buyers and sellers now arrive armed with Google searches, artificial intelligence (AI) tools, and price trackers – meaning you need to be more accurate than ever.   The discussion examines how agents can differentiate themselves in a data-saturated market, with Mardiasmo arguing that value now lies in interpretation, crafting clear and credible narratives.   The episode also dives into the risks of oversimplification, the importance of data literacy across agencies, and why business data is critical for smarter resourcing and competitive strategy.

In this episode of Momentum Media's REB Business Empowerment Showcase, editor Liam Garman sits down with Lloyd Ernst, founder and CEO of Cloudstaff, for a deep dive into how principals and directors can build scalable, future-ready, and tech-enabled real estate businesses.   Ernst reflects on his business's journey, founding companies that have since become multinational, providing insight into how remote workforces that align with local culture and performance objectives are fundamental for growth in today's real estate market.   Ernst and Garman then dive into the challenges of building trust and accountability across offshore teams, how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping workflows, and why the next generation of agencies will operate more like tech-enabled service companies than traditional offices. They then explore how Cloudstaff helps companies do this securely, overseeing cyber risks and enabling staff to effectively support the business.   Finally, Ernst offers practical insights for principals on how to leverage remote teams of any size without losing control, quality, or brand integrity, and explains how Cloudstaff's tailored training ensures offshore staff can quickly integrate and contribute to business success.  

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Contested Ground Podcast, hosts Steve Kuper and Liam Garman speak with Agsecure's Andrew Henderson as they unpack the recently released US food security strategy.   The trio unpack the details underpinning the pivot in American thinking resulting in the development of the food security strategy.   They also discuss the key priorities and focus areas identified in the food security strategy, ranging from concerns around biosecurity, foreign ownership of agricultural land through to supply chain bottlenecks and constraints for key inputs.   The trio also unpack the lessons for Australia as we begin our own national conversation about our food security and the challenges we face despite exporting 70 per cent of our annual agricultural produce.   Enjoy the Podcast

In the latest episode of Momentum Media's Finance Specialist produced by Broker Daily, hosts Liam Garman and Trent Carter examine how brokers should prepare for and respond to a cyber attack, as data breaches become an increasing risk for SMEs in financial services. The discussion focuses on practical steps brokerages should have in place before an incident, including documented response plans, tested backups, and multi-factor authentication, before outlining what to do in the critical first 24–48 hours following a breach.   Garman and Carter also explore communication strategies with clients and regulators, the role of cyber insurance, and the importance of conducting a thorough post-incident review to prevent repeat attacks.

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Contested Ground Podcast, hosts Phil Tarrant, Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson, and Steve Kuper discuss the immediate aftermath of the US–Israeli strikes against Iran and the ramifications for Australia.   The trio lays the foundation for a mini-series of focused podcast conversations over the coming weeks to address the impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East on Australia and the Australian public.   These topics will include engaging conversations with a range of experts across the following: The impact on social cohesion and the rise of foreign interference in Australia's diaspora communities. Australia's declining industrial sovereignty and the impact of contested, frayed and interrupted supply chains. The economic impacts of the conflict in the Middle East and Australia's cost-of-living crisis and the fuel security challenges Australia faces. The impact on Australia's key economic pillars and the connective tissue of logistic supply chains. Cyber security, disinformation and proxy activity in Australia. Migration and the challenges facing Australia's diaspora communities. Questions relating to Australia's geographic isolation and the psychology behind our "Tyranny of Distance" and the impact on Australia's security posture. Questions relating to what kind of "Middle Power" Australia wants to be. Enjoy the podcast.

With entry-level roles and role redesign flooding the AI transformation discourse, one expert reflects on what the next few years could hold.   In this episode of Momentum Media's The HR Leader Podcast, host Carlos Tse speaks with Gartner advisory director Jonathan Tabah (pictured), who reflects on how the AI transformation is unrivalled among technological revolutions, why AI is losing on "human touch" but winning in creativity, and how the changing rates of entry-level hiring are reshaping organisational structures across the workforce.   Tabah also delves into three potential horizons for the AI transformation, why many organisations will be picking the "low-hanging fruit" of AI in the next few years, why ignoring the "workforce within the machine" can lead to disaster, the implications of attitude in AI adoption, why there is no one size fits all for AI adoption, best practice for AI adoption, and why having a "zero-sum mentality" on AI will stop organisations from getting ahead.

In this episode of  Momentum Media's The Progress Report, host Tash Taylor sits down with Gabby Costigan, a powerhouse leader in the global defence sector and a pioneer for women in STEM. From her early days in the Australian Defence Force to becoming the first female CEO of BAE Systems Australia, Gabby's journey is a masterclass in resilience, career pivoting and leading with purpose. Beyond the boardroom, Gabby discusses the vital role of mentorship and her deep-rooted passion for advocating for defence families, offering invaluable advice for anyone looking to lead with resilience and purpose. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts. Enjoy the podcast, The Progress Report team

Earlier this year, Katie Thomas from Focus Finance took out the top spot of The Adviser's Elite Broker Ranking 2025 – Residential, becoming the first woman to do so.   In this episode of Momentum Media's Elite Broker podcast, host Annie Kane sits down with the Hunter Valley-based broker to find out how she wrote $496 million in residential loans over the last financial year, with her broker colleagues also writing substantial volumes.   Tune in to find out: How her relationship-first, self-sourced lead generation model works. How her brokerage manages to lodge nearly 1,000 applications a year. Her advice for building a successful, rapidly growing brokerage. And much more!

In this episode of Momentum Media's Contested Ground, hosts Phil Tarrant, Major General (Ret'd) Dr Marcus Thompson and new co-host, Steve Kuper, detail the intricacies of the proposed Russia–Ukraine peace deal announced by US President Donald Trump.   The trio also unpack three emerging security issues: a proposed Russia–Ukraine peace deal, heightened Chinese activity in the northern Pacific, and suspected Russian sabotage operations in Europe.   The peace proposal centres on a 30-day ceasefire, prisoner exchanges, and Ukraine conceding or freezing control of occupied territories. Ukraine would permanently renounce NATO membership, cap its military at around 600,000 personnel, and restrict long-range weapons. In return, the US and its partners would offer conditional security guarantees and gradually lift sanctions, with up to US$100 billion in frozen Russian assets used for reconstruction.   Chinese maritime activity has intensified, with five survey vessels operating in the north-west Pacific during major US-led exercises. Pacific analysts warn this undersea mapping may support future conflict planning.   In the UK, authorities are investigating whether Russia planted an incendiary parcel that ignited in a DHL warehouse, potentially linked to a similar case in Germany, part of a suspected GRU "mayhem" hybrid campaign.

In this episode of Momentum Media's REB Podcast, editor Liam Garman sits down with McGrath Estate Agents' founder, managing director, and CEO, John McGrath, for a rare deep dive into what separates good agents from truly remarkable ones – and why the next few years will reshape real estate as we know it.   McGrath reflects on four decades in the industry, unpacking the leadership philosophies, cultural frameworks, and personal disciplines that have shaped one of Australia's most influential real estate brands.   He explains why remarkability remains the ultimate differentiator, how leaders can clear and create energy within teams, and why reinvention is no longer optional for agents who want longevity.   The conversation tackles the sector's biggest trust challenges head-on – from the underquoting culture to the real impact of misinformation – and McGrath makes a compelling case for integrity as a non-negotiable competitive advantage.   McGrath also explores the rapid evolution of technology, warning that agents who resist artificial intelligence (AI) risk being left behind. He outlines how digital tools, automation, and emerging AI capabilities will supercharge service delivery, elevate client experience, and streamline business operations.

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy, as they unpack the major milestones for Defence and defence industry.   The pair discuss a range of topics, including: The impact of the SEA 3000 decision and implications for industrial and defence cooperation between Australia and Japan. Progress made on the nation's Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance program, including the breaking ground of the first Naval Strike Missile and Joint Strike Missile factory outside of Norway and local manufacturing contracts for a range of guided weapons. The ongoing reform processes designed to improve the efficiency and ease of doing business between Defence and industry. The lessons learned from the 2023 National Defence Strategy and Integrated Investment Program and how they will help shape the 2026 plans.

In this episode of the Momentum Media's REB Podcast, Liam Garman, editor of Real Estate Business, sits down with Arjun Paliwal from InvestorKit to explore the innovative strategies driving success in the Australian real estate market.   Paliwal reflects on his team's approach to innovation, explaining how doing things differently and focusing on strategies that deliver results has driven record-breaking growth and a surge in referrals.   He highlights the central role of customer satisfaction, showing how creating "raving fans" fuels organic growth more than advertising ever could.   The conversation delves into InvestorKit's use of specialisation and technology, demonstrating how focused teams and automation streamline processes and enhance service delivery.   InvestorKit recently won the REB Innovator of the Year – Residential Buyer's Agency award.   Paliwal also emphasises the importance of adaptability and continuous improvement, explaining how a culture of learning from mistakes keeps the business ahead of industry changes.   The discussion touches on broader market trends, including the influence of macroeconomic factors, interest rates, and the ongoing shortage of established property supply on buyer behaviour.   Paliwal also explores the evolving buyer's agent industry, advocating for higher standards and professionalism to ensure quality service as the sector grows.

How do you go from growing up in Ukraine to winning Academic of the Year in Australia? Dr Oleksandra Molloy, senior lecturer in aviation at UNSW Canberra, shares her extraordinary journey. Momentum Media's Tash Taylor dives into Oleksandra's courageous move to Australia and her experience pioneering research in emerging technologies, particularly her vital work on drones in modern warfare and the Defence Trailblazer program. Oleksandra details her efforts to inspire the next generation of women in STEM and offers practical insight into managing a high-impact academic career with family life, emphasising that resilience is key to achieving high goals and making a lasting impact in complex and essential industries. The Progress Report. New voices. Real stories. Big shifts.  

As regulations get more complex, accounting firms are teaming up with brokerages to give their clients better financial outcomes. Tune in to this episode of Accountants Daily Insider to hear from Tom and Ben Hawley, founders of Azura Financial, to find out how brokers and accountants can create strategic relationships to help clients and drive further business.    Tune in to hear more about: Why should there be strategic collaboration between the broking and accounting professions? How accountants can lean on, and leverage, brokers. Differences in finances that accountants and brokers need to be aware of. The outlook of the accountant-broker relationship over the next five years.

In October, a remarkable journey came to an end when 16-year-old Byron Waller touched down at Brisbane Airport following 67 days circumnavigating the globe in a light aircraft.   Covering 41,700km in his Sling TSi, Byron's odyssey through the skies took him over oceans, deserts, ice fields, and everything in between, including a landing at the Grand Canyon and guest appearances at big airshows.   It was a monumental effort from a young aviator who just a few years ago was bedridden with chronic illnesses, and turned to flying – including becoming the youngest pilot to circumnavigate Australia, at age 14 – to make his dreams a reality.   On Momentum Media's Australian Aviation Podcast, host Jake Nelson talks to Byron and his mum Jeni about his incredible achievement – and his future aviation ambitions.

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Secrets of the Top 100 Agents podcast, host Alex Whitlock sits down with Nick Boyd, CEO of Belle Property and Hockingstuart, to discuss the future of sales and property management – from maximising the human connection to building brand loyalty.   The conversation explores Nick's philosophy on coaching and mentorship, which he sees as critical to performance and career longevity, and how this focus has supported the network's growth from 40 offices to over 200 nationwide.   The discussion turns to the rise of technology and AI, with Nick emphasising that while AI can enhance consumer-to-brand interactions, the human relationship remains the foundation of trust and success in real estate.   The pair then unpack the dynamics of today's market, noting the balance across most regions while highlighting opportunities in Queensland and Perth, and the role of skilled agents in delivering outcomes for clients.   Finally, Nick outlines his vision for the future – a profession gaining gravitas, built on trust, performance, and the enduring value of relationships.

Amid myriad professional, technological, economic, and sociocultural changes, it is essential that HR professionals face such shifting sands with an open mind, which will allow, one chief people and culture officer says, for greater creativity, collaboration, and innovation.   In this episode of Momentum Media's HR Leader Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Sydney Children's Hospitals Foundation chief people and culture officer Mariam Hares about her journey in the profession, what her day-to-day in the not-for-profit looks like, the challenges and opportunities she's seeing on the horizon for HR professionals and teams, and how well HR is doing, as a business unit, in adapting to change.   Hares also delves into bringing all business units along for the ride in adapting to change, the questions that HR needs to answer in the talent space, leaning into automation, getting incentives right, creating a strategy to address the many workforce challenges, and her best practice guidance to other HR professionals in the face of voluminous market change.

In this episode of the Defence Connect Podcast, managing editor Steve Kuper speaks with Andrew Henderson, director of AgSecure and a leading voice on agricultural resilience, biosecurity, and national preparedness.   Together, they explore the recently released National Food Security Strategy discussion paper, the importance of critical inputs like fuel and fertiliser, the implications of trade disputes, and the growing need to integrate food systems into defence planning.   The pair also discuss why food security is no longer just an agricultural issue – it's a national security imperative. With global supply chains under pressure, climate risks mounting, and adversaries willing to target agricultural systems through biosecurity breaches or even agroterrorism, Australia faces a complex challenge in safeguarding the nation's food and fibre production.   From the risks of varroa mite and foot and mouth disease to the opportunities of regional self-reliance and biotechnology, Henderson outlines why food security must be elevated to the same level of priority as Australia's defence posture – and why a secure Indo-Pacific is, ultimately, a well-fed one.   Enjoy the podcast, The Defence Connect team

In the current climate, maintaining psychological safety in law departments requires much more than box-ticking – a stronger focus on culture, and use of AI to ensure greater focus on human issues, is paramount moving forward, says an award-winning and GC Powerlist-recognised group general counsel.   In this episode of Momentum Media's The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back former group GC of Tabcorp, Ivana Kovacevic, who now serves as a fractional GC and advisory board member for Thomson Reuters Practical Law, and keynote speaker, to discuss the importance of building psychological safety in legal teams in the current climate, her perception of what constitutes psychological safety for law departments, and how well the in-house sector is faring when it comes to ensuring such safety. Kovacevic also delves into the need to move beyond compliance box-ticking, the urgency is prioritising psychological safety, the starting point for in-house teams in creating and maintaining psychologically safe working environments, catering to idiosyncratic needs within one's team, practical steps she has taken within her own teams and what has worked, making time to implement changes, using AI to take a more human approach, leading by example, and the need to be curious and vulnerable.  

In this episode of the Momentum Media's REB Business Empowerment Showcase, host Emilie Lauer speaks with the chair of the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA), Lachlan Vidler, to unpack the current state and key trends of Australia's real estate investment market.   The discussion delves into the latest PIPA investor sentiment survey which reveals the key challenges for property investors, the impact of the three rate cuts, surging demand, limited stock, and rapidly rising property prices.   Lachlan highlights the difficulty of adding new stock to the market, citing construction hurdles, regulatory red tape, and high costs that limit both large- and small-scale investors.   According to the survey, policy changes, compliance costs, and land tax pressures are prompting some investors to sell.   Melbourne has emerged as a top choice for investment due to relative affordability, with Brisbane and regional markets also attracting attention, thanks to strong infrastructure and lifestyle appeal.   While nearly 60 per cent still consider it a good time to invest, Lachlan expresses cautious optimism, noting potential rate cuts and first home buyer schemes while urging investors to avoid FOMO and plan strategically.   Did you like this episode? Show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (REB Podcast Network) and by liking and following Real Estate Business on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend a voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights.

In this episode of the Momentum Media's Contested Ground podcast, host Steve Kuper is joined by the Honourable Andrew Hastie MP, shadow minister for home affairs, for a hard-hitting discussion on the shifting nature of Australia's national security challenges.   No longer confined to conventional defence or counter-terrorism, the security debate now spans economic sovereignty, industrial security, and social cohesion. Against the backdrop of recent revelations of Iranian espionage attempts on Australian soil, Hastie warns that hostile foreign actors are probing Australia's vulnerabilities, not only in cyber space and critical infrastructure, but in the trust that underpins our diverse society.   Throughout the conversation, Hastie shares how his perspective has sharpened since stepping into the shadow portfolio following his time as shadow minister for Defence. He outlines the emerging contest for resilience – whether in defending supply chains, protecting advanced technologies, or insulating the national economy from coercion.   Kuper presses Hastie on the domestic implications of foreign espionage operations, particularly the way they threaten multicultural harmony and fuel social division. Hastie stresses that Australia must be proactive in countering influence operations, strengthening intelligence partnerships, and reinforcing trust across society.   The discussion then broadens to the strategic importance of resilience, a whole-of-nation approach that prepares Australians not just to respond to crises, but to withstand them.   Hastie points to key policy gaps, from weak industrial capacity to fragmented national planning, and calls for a more integrated framework that links defence, economy, and society into a coherent security posture.   As Australia navigates an increasingly contested world, this episode challenges listeners to rethink what security really means. The conversation offers sharp insights into how Australia can adapt to a new era of threats and why resilience must sit at the heart of any credible national security agenda.   Enjoy the podcast, The Contested Ground team

In this latest episode of Momentum Media's  Broker Daily Uncut, host Alex Whitlock is joined by Sebastian Watkins, CEO and co-founder of Aussie Home Loans.   Here, Watkins outlined a bold new vision to transform the iconic mortgage broking brand into a comprehensive platform for the entire property journey.   Faced with a mature broking market where differentiation is key, Aussie is moving beyond finance to disrupt the traditionally fragmented process of buying a home.   Watkins identified the core problem: customers currently juggle multiple relationships with portals, brokers, conveyancers, and real estate agents, leading to a disjointed experience.

This week on UTH, Sonia Gibson, founder of Accounting Heart, joins Imogen Wilson to chat about the importance of business succession, exit strategies, and why more business owners need to take the concept seriously.   Tune in to hear more about: What business succession means and why it's important. Why such a big gap in business succession knowledge exists. Succession and exit strategy advice. How accountants can facilitate smoother transitions between business owners. Pros and cons of selling to a third party v. family members or employees.   You can contact the Accountants Daily team and podcast host Imogen at [email protected].  

Gerard 'Rolfsy' Rolfs has been in banking for around 40 years and third party for 24. In this time, he has witnessed immense change as the broker channel cemented itself as a core aspect of lending. The senior relationship manager at CBA is now approaching retirement. He joined this special episode of Broker Daily Uncut to discuss his time in the industry and what has helped drive success.   From fax machines to AI, Rolfs has been at the forefront of the manual to digital revolution. The humble beginnings of third party would be unrecognisable to the modern broker.   Despite this, the role of a relationship manager has remained, and genuine, consistent relationships are the backbone of success.

In the latest episode of The ifa Show, Pivot Wealth founder Ben Nash joins host Keith Ford to break down the secrets to leveraging digital platforms for business growth and client engagement while dealing with the compliance challenges that come with professionals communicating in the digital realm.   Nash highlights that his journey into content marketing began as a deliberate strategy to generate leads independently of traditional referral networks and offers practical advice for others venturing into the social media space, suggesting they start by mastering one content format before expanding.   Tune in to hear: Why focus and consistency are key to building traction in online content. How prioritising authenticity is a better method than trying to game the algorithm when building an audience. Whether getting labelled a "finfluencer" is a drawback for a professional adviser. How you can help prospective clients engaging with your content prepare for the advice process.  

In this episode, REB's Liam Garman is joined by the CEO of Laing+Simmons and president of the Real Estate Institute of Australia (REIA), Leanne Pilkington, to talk about the challenges and opportunities facing the Australian real estate industry.   The duo starts by discussing the upcoming Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorism Financing (AML/CTF) reforms, set to take effect in July 2026, which will require agencies to register as reporting entities and implement policies aligned with AUSTRAC's requirements.   Leanne stresses that while some businesses may manage compliance internally, complex transactions involving foreign investors will need more rigorous checks, and external support may be necessary.   She highlighted that AI and automation can streamline compliance and property management, allowing agents to focus on client relationships.   She further emphasised the importance of building a cohesive team culture through understanding individual motivations, hiring aligned with company values, and clear communication of vision.

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, working life has changed significantly. Now, research is starting to identify certain professional and environmental trends that businesses need to be on top of.   In this episode of The HR Leader Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by the founding board director of R U OK?, Graeme Cowan, to discuss why uncertainty is so prevalent in workplaces in the current climate, why the proliferation of remote and flexible working is a worrying development, the varying levels of trust in the workforce and why it is damaging, a decline in employee engagement and the consequences of not paying attention to that lack of engagement, and the ongoing wellbeing and mental health crisis.   Cowan also delves into the broader business considerations inherent with addressing wellbeing concerns, why the wellbeing focus isn't working, how and why more managers want out of their workplaces, how business leaders can better support managers, why change leadership needs to improve, and the decline of respect in the workplace.