Future Perfect

Francesca Albanese is a human rights expert, legal scholar, and one of the world's most significant voices on Palestinian struggle. As the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories, she has spent years documenting what she and others, including the International Court of Justice, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International have described as genocide. This has made her a target for the pro-Israel lobby.She’s been sanctioned by the US government, threatened with arrest in Germany, and has faced repeated death threats for her unwavering commitment to calling out Israel's attrociies. Her new book is called While the World Sleeps: Stories, Words and Wounds of Palestine – its part memoir, told through the stories of ten people she’s met in her life and career as legal expert on Palestine, and a rallying cry for the world to stop the horrors that the international human rights system is supposed to prevent.In this conversation, she reflects on her life and career spent face to face with human suffering, the moral imperative to mobilise against genocide, and where she finds hope."Documenting human rights violations in a time of genocide are excrutiating for the mind, for the body....I've been swalling death and horrible things that humans have done to other humans for over three years now."The genocide has changed my life forever. I don't think there is a way to repair it other than being good, to being caring towards myself, towards my loved ones...I have two young children. Preserving my sanity is something that goes hand in hand with being their mum."I know that if all good people on Earth did what they could, and what they know they can do, the world will heal sooner than we think."

Louis Theroux's new Netflix documentary Inside the Manosphere has refocused public attention on how toxic masculinity is incubated online. But what whappens when these often violent, sexist attitudes towards women and girls enter the schoolyard? Dr Stephanie Wescott is a lecturer at Monash University who researches how manosphere figures like Andrew Tate influence gender attitudes in schools. Her new co-authored study reports on teachers' experiences of being harassed and targeted with intimidatory behaviour while at work - a pattern they say is getting worse. It paints a worrying picture of the education system's failure to properly address the problem.Dr Wescott spoke about the study's findings and what can be done both to protect teachers and educate boys about respectful relationships."The level of violence, the visceral misogyny, and also the impunity or the brazenness with which young people can feel…entitled to do this to teachers…is pretty shocking."

Wikipedia, the online encyclopedia written collaboratively by volunteers across the world, has grown to become one of the most visited sites on the internet.Dylan Bird is joined by Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales to reflect on the origins of the website, how a radical idea of crowd-sourcing knowledge worked, toxicity on the internet, and what lessons we can draw from Wikipedia in countering division and building trust, as explored in his newest book The Seven Rules of Trust.Jimmy will be in Melbourne for an in-conversation event through RMIT and The Wheeler Centre at The Capitol Theatre on May 20. “At Wikipedia, the community has the tools to control the space … people respond well to that, and it sets a tone that we’re not supposed to be bashing each other; we’re supposed to be working together in a collegial way.”Photo credit: Bloomsbury Publishing.

Yanis Varoufakis is an economist and former Greek finance minister. He’s also a best-selling author of titles including Talking to My Daughter: A Brief History of Capitalism, Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism, and his latest: Raise Your Soul: A Personal History of Resistance.During his recent visit to Australia, Yanis sat down with Dylan Bird in the Triple R studios to share his thoughts on the US and Israel’s attack on Iran, the power of the Zionist lobby, the links between Israel and Big Tech, how we might combat the rise of right-wing populism, and Australia's response to Trump's bullying on the world stage.“The mind-numbing cowardice of Anthony Albanese and his government is going to stay as an albatross around the neck of Australia for decades.”Photo credit: supplied.

On this year’s final episode of Future Perfect, Dylan is joined by David Manne, Executive Director of Refugee Legal, to explore the federal government's new suite of measures cracking down on refugees and asylum seekers. (1:06)Dr Jordana Silverstein, Senior Research Fellow in the Peter McMullin Centre on Statelessness at The University of Melbourne, gives an overview of her new podcast Being Stateless which draws together oral history interviews with people experiencing statelessness in Australia. (22:58)NITV journalist Rudi Maxwell unpacks the federal government’s recent apology to Aboriginal victims of wage theft in the Northern Territory, following the settlement of a class action lawsuit for more than $200 million. (40:29)Plus, Tony Wilson, author and founder of Speakola, drops in to recap the best speeches from 2024. (52:45)And finally, Alex Macfarlane and Mikey Young of local band The Green Child stop by to chat about their new album Look Familiar, their creative process, and more. (1:17:37)

Content warning: this episode contains discussion of gendered violence. If you find any of this distressing, you can seek support via 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732.Dylan is joined by Dr Stephanie Wescott, Lecturer in the School of Education, Culture and Society at Monash University, to discuss the interventions that could address young men and boys being susceptible to the manosphere and its ties to violence against women, as explored in her ongoing research for ANROWS. (1:10)Jana Favero, Deputy CEO and Head of Systematic Change at the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, discusses the ASRC’s new campaign to foster support and inclusion for asylum seekers and refugees in Australia. (16:56)Author and journalist George Megalogenis looks ahead to next year’s federal election amid a shifting political landscape in the country, as explored in his new Quarterly Essay Minority Report: The New Shape of Australian Politics. (30:15)Plus, Emily Naismith and Ben Birchall, hosts of podcast Ingredipedia, drop by to talk about the show’s new miniseries ‘Zombie Snacks’, which brings nostalgic Australian snacks back from the dead. (52:29) And finally, Grammy Award-winning artist Annie Clark aka St. Vincent returns to Future Perfect to chat about what has shaped her live shows for the tour of her album ‘All Born Screaming’, ahead of her shows in Melbourne for Always Live Victoria. (1:12:04)

Dylan is joined by Jeff Sparrow to walk us through what Donald Trump’s election win could mean for politics in Australia. (1:02)Psychologist, author and educator Dr Chris Cheers chats all things loneliness ahead of his appearance at the in-conversation event Solving Loneliness Together at Federation Square in Melbourne on November 20. (19:04)Lisa Given, Professor of Information Sciences and Director of Social Change at RMIT University, unpacks the federal government’s plan to impose a ‘Digital Duty of Care’ to regulate social media companies, and the precedent for this legislation internationally. (34:22)Plus, Esther Anatolitis, editor of Meanjin, and Jenny Hocking, Emeritus Professor at Monash University, chat about the release of Essays that Changed Australia, an anthology from Meanjin spanning its 84-year history. (46:24)

Dylan is joined by Cam Walker, campaigns coordinator at Friends of the Earth, to unpack what the re-election of Donald Trump could mean for global climate and environmental policy amid the annual United Nations Climate Change Conference. (0:56)Clinton Fernandes, Professor of International and Political Studies at the University of New South Wales, takes us through the geopolitical implications of Trump’s return for Australia and the world. (17:00)Carody Culver, editor of Griffith Review, and author Tom Doig discuss the latest issue Leaps of Faith, and Tom’s research on doomsday ‘preppers’. (42:01)Plus, psych-folk musician Patrick Ryan aka Cantrips drops by to chat about his new single ‘Snake Skin’, his label Dune Castle Records and his DJing journey. (1:07:01)

Dylan is joined by Dave Nichols, Professor of Urban Planning at the University of Melbourne, to dive into the history of The Age after the newspaper marked 170 years of publication, and pay tribute to Melbourne musician Ollie Olsen following his recent passing. (1:07)Journalist Antony Loewenstein unpacks his new podcast series The Palestine Laboratory, based on his 2023 book of the same name that investigated Israel’s use of Palestine as a testing ground for its weapons and surveillance technology. (20:42)Clare Corbould, Associate Professor of History at Deakin University, visits to break down the current state of play in the US presidential election, and the role of race and gender in the Trump and Harris media campaigns. (41:39)Plus, Jacqui Baker, Lecturer at Murdoch University, provides insight into what we can expect from Indonesia’s newly elected president Prabowo Subianto, and the direction in which the country’s politics are trending. (1:06:41)And finally, Melbourne musician, DJ and producer Harvey Sutherland drops by to chat about the artistic process behind his new single ‘Hummingbird’ and his upcoming show at Strawberry Fields Festival in November. (1:22:36)

Dylan is joined by Benita Kolovos, Victorian state correspondent for Guardian Australia, to bring us up to date on what’s going on in the race for Melbourne’s next Lord Mayor ahead of the Melbourne City Council election this month, and the current leadership tension within the Victorian Liberal Party. (1:03)Lawyer and author Josh Bornstein visits to discuss his new book Working for the Brand which analyses how corporations came to hold so much power over their employees, as well as exploring cancel culture and the regulation of speech on university campuses. (16:59)Amin Saikal, Emeritus Professor at ANU, unpacks the latest developments in the violence in the Middle East and the options for de-escalation and preventing further casualties. (40:16)Plus, author and visual artist Laura J Carroll drops by to chat about her new graphic novel Making the Shrine which dives into the fascinating and complicated history of Melbourne’s Shrine of Remembrance. (57:43)And finally, journalist and filmmaker Marc Fennell takes us through the implosion of the Australian-founded music streaming service Guvera, as explored in his new two-part documentary for SBS Red Flag: Music’s Failed Revolution, airing from October 15. (1:13:51)

Dylan is joined by Paul Strangio, Emeritus Professor of Politics at Monash University, to discuss Anthony Albanese’s Prime Ministership and the key issues ahead of early next year’s election. (0:57)Writer, Triple R broadcaster and Yorta Yorta man Daniel James visits to unpack his recent piece for The Monthly that covered his visit to Alice Springs and the social issues and government failures facing the area. (21:21)Financial journalist Alan Kohler dives into the ongoing issues informing Australia’s housing crisis, as analysed in his new book The Great Divide which revises his 2023 Quarterly Essay. (38:50)Plus, historian and author Dr Deborah Lee Talbot discusses the impacts of cruise company P&O ceasing their operations in 2025, and the role that cruise lines have played in soft diplomacy between Australia and Papa New Guinea. (54:30)And finally, N’fa Jones, African Australian hip hop artist and member of Cool Out Sun, drops by to chat about the creation of the group’s new album A LION IS A LION and upcoming shows. (1:04:44)

Dylan is joined by Cam Walker, campaigns coordinator at Friends of the Earth, to talk through the decommissioning of aging oil and gas infrastructure in the Bass Strait and ahead of a Victorian Parliamentary inquiry, and the impact of the upcoming US election on global climate action. (0:59)Rebecca Johnston Ryan, Director and Principal Lawyer of Night Service at Fitzroy Legal Service, drops by to discuss the 2024 edition of their Law Handbook and the importance of community access to free legal advice and justice. (14:35)Clinton Fernandes, Professor of International and Political Studies at the University of New South Wales, and Deb Salvagno, Founder of East Timor Women Australia, visit to chat about the 25th anniversary of East Timor's independence ahead of a symposium and exhibition ‘Tais, Culture & Resilience’ in Melbourne to mark the occasion (29:24)Plus, Emma Sharp, General Manager of Stupid Old Studios, and comedian Matt Stewart drop in to chat about the Cheerful Earful comedy podcast festival in Melbourne October 4-6. (56:37)And finally, Sydney musician Isobel Knight checks in on her music journey over recent years ahead of a string of Melbourne shows and the screening of her tour film Lost Dog on September 18. (1:12:11)

Dylan is joined by American author and political analyst Thomas Frank to break down what we can expect in the lead-up to the US election, and what he experienced attending the Democratic and Republican National Conventions. (0:57)Psychiatrist and author Dr Mark Cross unpacks his new book Mental State, outlining a range of systemic problems in how we currently treat and manage mental ill health across the nation, and some possible solutions. (33:15)Kirsty Bishop-Fox, sustainability educator and environmental advocate, drops by to discuss how we can all reduce our environmental footprint and previews the Zero Waste Festival at Fed Square. (56:25)Plus, electronic and avant-garde musician Ash Wednesday chats about his new album AfterMATH composed for the Melbourne Town Hall Grand Organ, and his relationship with music living with Multiple Sclerosis. (1:11:37)

Guest host Ben Harrington is joined by Dr Karinna Saxby, Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne, to make sense of the recent controversy around the federal government’s original move not to include questions about gender diversity and sexual orientation in the 2026 census, and why having this data on a national scale is so important. (1:01)Nicole Gurran, Professor of Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Sydney, takes us inside the recently released final report from the People’s Commission into the Housing Crisis, and the recommendations that the report proposes to address spiralling housing prices and homelessness in Australia. (13:22)Plus, New Zealand psychedelic groover Joe Ghatt joins in to chat about his second album ‘Caper’ and his experiences as a solo artist ahead of a gig in Melbourne at the Northcote Social Club on September 2. (33:55)

Content warning: this episode contains discussion of sexual assault and violence. If you find any of this distressing, you can seek support via 1800 RESPECT on 1800 737 732 and the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.Dylan is joined by author and food journalist Dani Valent to take a further look at the issues tackled in her new piece for The Age, which shines a light on sexual abuse and assault in the hospitality industry. (1:22)Dr Melinda Hildebrandt, Policy Fellow at the Mitchell Institute, unpacks concerns in the tertiary sector following the federal government’s proposal earlier this year of a cap on international student enrolments, and how the government could introduce the cap while protecting university funding. (14:28)Author & federal MP Dr Andrew Leigh digs into his new book The Shortest History of Economics, and the insights that this history can offer on the evolution of human societies. (32:20)Plus, comedian Josh Earl drops by to talk about his return to the stage with his comedy show Four Burners this week at the Butterfly Club, and the art of finding humour in a modern dilemma. (48:15)And finally, musician St. Vincent checks in ahead of her upcoming Victorian tour to chat about her new album All Born Screaming, playing in Australia and much more. (1:00:46)

Dylan is joined by Charles Livingstone, Associate Professor at Monash University and gambling reform expert, to discuss the federal government’s imminent response to the parliamentary inquiry into online gambling and why a partial ban won’t work. (1:05)Ika Trijsburg, Research Fellow at the University of Melbourne, unpacks how cities can help to address disinformation and prevent discrimation in light of protests in the UK fuelled by anti-Muslim rhetoric, as explored in her current project and recent analysis. (16:51)Journalist Ben Mckelvey talks about his recent report for The Saturday Paper, which revealed that the Australian Defence Force contacted the Attorney General’s Department back in 2012 seeking advice on the possibility that Australian soldiers were breaching the criminal code in Afghanistan. (29:39)Plus, director Jolyon Hoff takes us on a trip through the inception and history of Australian surf culture as celebrated in his new film You Should Have Been Here Yesterday, screening as part of Melbourne International Film Festival.(43:24)And finally, Lach Denton of Australian band Pop Filter chats about the band’s latest single ‘Fragile’ and what the group are doing differently with their music in the lead up to their forthcoming album Ray and Lorraine’s.

Dylan is joined by Laura Davy, social policy expert and lecturer at ANU, to dig into the federal government’s response to the Disability Royal Commission, and its acceptance in full of just 13 out of the report’s 172 recommendations for which it has responsibility. (0:51) Amelia Leavesley, Researcher at the University of Melbourne, visits to break down the ongoing investigation into the role ‘Big Plastic’ has in swaying local and international recycling and climate policies. (15:41)Journalist and author Royce Kurmelovs explores his new book Slick, which charts the history of Australia’s relationship with Big Oil and the disastrous climate impacts of the extraction and burning of fossil fuels. (32:59)Plus, R&B artist Jada Weazel drops by to chat about her relationship with music and accolades following the release of her new single ‘Send My Love’ and nomination for New Talent of the Year at the National Indigenous Music Awards. (59:28)

Dylan is joined by Jana Favero, Head of Systemic Change at the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, and former Nauru detainee Betelhem Tibedu, to explore the health crisis in Australia’s offshore detention camps in PNG and Nauru, as highlighted in the ASRC’s new report. (0:56)Matt Byrne, Politics Lead at the Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance, visits to discuss the threat that AI poses to journalism and the creative industries, as outlined in the MEAA’s submission to a Senate inquiry into the opportunities and impacts of AI in Australia. (17:45)Dr Courtney Walton, psychologist and Academic Fellow at the University of Melbourne, drops by to chat about the mental toll experienced by elite athletes and how Olympians cope with the huge pressure to perform on the world’s biggest stage. (34:53)Plus, John Quiggan, Professor of Economics at the University of Queensland, lays out how the era of privatisation is coming to an end, as explored in his recent article for The Guardian. (49:48)

On this special bonus episode of Future Perfect, former Breakfaster Jeff Sparrow and cartoonist Sam Wallman join Dylan for an RRR In Conversation event from Triple R's Performance Space, to discuss the release of their new comic-book guide 12 Rules for Strife. You can check out a preview gallery of 12 Rules For Strife here: https://www.rrr.org.au/explore/news-articles/preview-gallery-12-rules-for-strife-by-jeff-sparrow-sam-wallman

Content warning: this episode contains discussion of sexual assault and violence. If you find any of this distressing, you can seek support via 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 and the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491.Dylan is joined by Mark Willacy, journalist and reporter for ABC Investigations, to take us inside Retribution, his 2-part series for Four Corners on what a second Trump presidency would look like, featuring interviews with Project 2025 leaders, pro-Trump supporters and whistleblowers. (1:03)Benita Kolovos, Victorian state correspondent for Guardian Australia, unpacks the political fallout and state government response to the bombshell allegations of organised crime infiltrating the Construction, Forestry and Maritime Employees Union (CFMEU). (13:45)Author, ex-journalist and consent educator Jane Gilmore visits to give her thoughts on effective education to tackle misogyny in young men and promote positive attitudes towards women ahead of her panel appearance for Boys to Men: Remodelling Masculinity at the Wheeler Centre on July 25. (25:37)Plus, director David Charles Rodrigues chats about their new film S/He is Still Her/E, a documentary exploring the radical and mixed legacy of artist Genesis P-Orridge, before its Australian premiere at ACMI on July 27. (44:08)

Dylan is joined by David Mejia-Canales, Senior Lawyer at the Human Rights Law Centre, to break down his new report ‘Protest in Peril’, which looks at anti-protest trends across various jurisdictions in Australia. (1:11)Juanita Sherwood, Professor in Indigenous Policy at the University of Technology Sydney, discusses the snap curfews recently imposed to curb youth violence in Alice Springs, and concerns about how such powers discriminate against First Nations people and communities. (16:29)Food historian Dr Lauren Samuelsson provides a history of the Australian Women’s Weekly cookbook series and its impact on Australian food culture ahead of her talk as part of Melbourne Rare Book Week on July 19. (33:26)Plus, Lowanna Grant, NITV Radio Executive Producer, discusses her new podcast series Ngiyang, which tells the story of how the Wiradyuri language has been reclaimed and rejuvenated, and the continued efforts to ensure its survival (44:55)And finally, singer-songwriter Darren Hanlon chats about his experiences gigging over the years and his current tour celebrating 22 years of his debut album Hello Stranger, including a stop at the Brunswick Ballroom on July 26. (57:11)

Dylan is joined by Ben Wellings, Associate Professor in Politics and International Relations at Monash University, to dig into France’s political future following the leftist coalition beating out Marine Le Pen’s far-right party in the country’s parliamentary election. (1:14)Clare Corbould, Associate Professor of History at Deakin University, discusses the uncertain path ahead in US politics amid calls for President Joe Biden to step down from the presidential race, and the Supreme Court’s decision to grant immunity to future presidents from criminal prosecution. (13:48)Dave Nichols, Professor in Urban Planning at the University of Melbourne, chats about the new Melbourne Lord Mayor Nick Reece and the major priority issues he has outlined, including housing in the CBD and the Green Line project. (34:05)Plus, Matt Kunkel, CEO of the Migrant Workers Centre, visits to unpack the organisation’s new research report ‘Pathways and Pitfalls’ which investigates the challenges faced by migrant workers navigating the migrant advice sector in Australia. (50:20)And finally, musician Evelyn Ida Morris drops by to catch up on their journey in music and voice ahead of their performance at ‘Esoteric Voice Practices’ on July 26, presented by Liquid Architecture, which will be the debut of their voice since transitioning and undergoing hormonal affirmation treatment. (1:03:45)

Guest host Ben Harrington is joined by Sam Whiting, lecturer in Creative Industries at the University of South Australia, to discuss the financial crisis facing Australian musicians and the live music sector, and the role Triple J and commercial radio has to play in it all. (1:09)Tricia Malowney, Chief Accessibility Advocate at the Department of Transport and Planning, talks all things public transport accessibility, and her recent travels overseas to investigate contemporary examples of transport and navigation for people with disability. (12:36)Wendy Stone, professor at Swinburne university unpacks new research she’s leading into the housing and living situations faced by young women and young gender diverse people in Australia. (28:49)Plus, guitarist and songwriter Bobby K of Hobart band RABBIT chats about the group’s newly released single 'Dollarmites' and their upcoming debut Melbourne tour. (42:28)

Dylan is joined by climate scientist and author Joëlle Gergis to dig into her new Quarterly Essay Highway to Hell: Climate Change and Australia’s Future, which confronts what the future holds if action isn’t taken on the climate crisis. (0:55)Jon Richardson, Visiting Fellow at ANU and former diplomat, gives an update on the status of the war in Ukraine and the outcomes of the Ukraine peace summit over the weekend. (18:23)Jordy Kaufman, Associate Professor at Swinburne University, breaks down why calls to ban kids under 16 from using social media won’t work, and how to safeguard children's safety online. (38:42)Plus, Kate Duncan, CEO of The Push, drops by to discuss the new documentary series Forever Young, celebrating The Push’s decades-long journey and importance in getting young people involved in music. (48:32)And finally, Melbourne DIY artist Great Earthquake chats about the creative approach and near-death experience behind his forthcoming album Abstract Expression, which launches at The Tramway Hotel on August 25. (1:03:59)

Dylan is joined by Julian Assange’s father John Shipton to update on the campaign to free his son, following the London High Court’s ruling to grant Assange the right to appeal his extradition to the United States. (1:02)Hannah Dickinson, Principal Solicitor at the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre, visits to unpack the moral panic, media coverage and government rhetoric towards immigration detainees released as a result of last year’s High Court decision that found indefinite immigration detention was unlawful. (19:49)Dr Jennifer Rayner, Head of Advocacy at the Climate Council, digs into her new book Climate Clangers: The Bad Ideas Blocking Real Action, exploring some of the current processes and strategies that aren’t working and what needs to be done to bring about more ambitious action on climate change. (34:56)Plus, musician Tom Lyngcoln, formerly of bands Harmony and The Nation Blue, chats about the conception of his new band Down Under, and their self-titled debut album released earlier this year. (49:52)And finally, Liam Blair and Stefan Parsons of Melbourne band Good Morning drop by to chat about their latest album Seven and how they collaborate while living in different countries ahead of their upcoming gig for Rising Festival. (1:00:59)

Dylan is joined by Andrea Furger, Graduate Researcher in International Law at The University of Melbourne and former member of staff at the International Criminal Court, to discuss the ICC Chief Prosecutor’s arrest warrant application for members of both the Israeli government and Hamas, and how the US government likes to pick and choose when it supports the work of the ICC. (0:55)Peter Mares, independent writer and researcher and Adjunct Senior Research Fellow at Monash University, cuts through the spin in the federal Opposition's attempt to link the housing crisis with migration. (13:34)Prof John Evans, Wiradjuri man and Pro Vice-Chancellor of Indigenous Engagement at Swinburne University, looks at what’s behind the drop-off in numbers of Indigenous players in the AFL and what can be done to support Indigenous participation and pathways to senior roles in football, as analysed in his recent piece for The Age. (33:57)Plus, award-winning Noongar artist and Triple R broadcaster Bumpy drops in to chat about her big year of touring and delivering workshops around the country ahead of her upcoming gigs including a debut appearance at the Sydney Opera House for Vivid LIVE on May 31. (44:13)

Content warning: this episode contains discussion of homophobia and queerphobia in sport - if you find any of this distressing, you can receive specialised peer support via QLife on 1800 184 527 or head to switchboard.org.au for more info.Dylan is joined by Dr Ryan Storr, Research Fellow at Swinburne University, to discuss new research revealing the continued extent of discrimination faced by LGBTQIA+ people in community sport. (0:52)Regular guest Jeff Sparrow unpacks his new analysis featured in Overland ‘Why conservatives are so afraid of the Palestine solidarity movement’ and why the protests on university campuses against Israel’s assault on Gaza are some of the most significant in Australia’s recent history. (15:16)Samantha Hepburn, Professor at Deakin University, breaks down how the federal government's new gas policy is at odds with Australia's commitments under the Paris Agreement to achieve net zero emissions by 2050. (29:31)Plus, Frazer Thorpe, Education and Engagement Manager at Plants 4 Space chats about the upcoming event for Melbourne Design Week ‘Design Beyond Earth: A Future on the Moon’, exploring how growing plants on the Moon could innovate our sustainability on Earth. (42:02)

Content warning: our first interview this week touches on issues of domestic violence, sexual assault and violence against women in Australia. If any of these topics are sensitive or impact you, or if you require any assistance – you can call 1800 RESPECT to speak to a domestic violence counsellor.For men who are worried that they may be violent toward their partners or family, and would like to seek help and support – you can call 1300 766 491 to reach the Men's Referral Service for counselling, information and behaviour change program details.Dylan is joined by Kate Fitz-Gibbon, Professor of Social Sciences at Monash University, following the federal government’s pledge to combat the escalating crisis of violence against women, and discusses new research into domestic violence disclosure schemes and whether they improve safety for victim-survivors. (1:09)Journalist and author Antony Loewenstein speaks on his experience as a Jewish person who has long been critical of the Israeli government and its persecution of Palestinians, as explored in the new episode ‘Not In My Name’ for ABC documentary series Compass, now available on ABC iView. (16:09)Broadcaster and writer Jonathan Green unpacks his new piece for The Monthly ‘A Common Good’, which explores how the digital age is fracturing our sense of community, and gets into how we might re-capture a sense of shared humanity in an age of individualism. (36:17)Plus, Melbourne-based rapper and producer Joel Ma (AKA Joelistics) drops by to chat about his upcoming show All The People You’ve Never Met at Frankston Art Centre for South Side Festival 2024. (52:30)Finally, multi-instrumentalist Isobel D’Cruz visits to get into her solo project Hantu, her studies in ethnomusicology and Melbourne’s music scene and culture, and her prolific output across genres ahead of her upcoming show at Eastmint in Melbourne. (1:10:48)

Dylan is joined by Benita Kolovos, Victorian state correspondent for Guardian Australia, who explains the state government’s decision not to proceed with a second safe injecting room in Melbourne, despite an expert report finding a new facility would save lives. (1:02)Dr Kylie Moore-Gilbert, Co-founder and Director of the Australian Wrongful and Arbitrary Detention Alliance, speaks on the formation of the new organisation and her experience as a leading voice in hostage diplomacy since returning to Australia in a prisoner swap deal after spending 804 days in an Iranian prison. (18:13)Forest advocate Sarah Rees discusses the long-proposed establishment of the Great Forest National Park – which would comprise more than 500,000 hectares of protected forests in Victoria – amid the Victorian government opening public consultation for future uses of the Central Highlands state forest. (32:23)Plus, producer of the documentary Things Will Be Different Celeste De Clario, and the film’s lead subject William Gwynne, visit to chat about the forced relocation of people from the Walker Street public housing estate in Northcote that the film explores, ahead of its premiere at the Setting Sun International Film Festival in May. (50:46)Finally, Melbourne musician darvid thor drops by to chat about his return to solo music and performs a live rendition of his new single ‘Changing Shape’ ahead of its launch show at Shotkickers on May 2. (1:13:20)

Dylan is joined by journalists Stephanie Tran and Eve Cogan to get into their investigative report for Declassified Australia The Pentagon’s Infiltration of Australian Universities, which uncovered that the US Defence Department has been funnelling hundreds of millions of dollars into Australia’s higher education sector to fund research activities that benefit American military power. (1:05)Dave Nichols, Professor of Urban Planning at The University of Melbourne, visits to discuss the saga that has followed the state government announcing last year that it would demolish 44 public housing towers, raising conversations about their importance and value to Melbourne’s history. (17:01)Journalist Mahmood Fazal unpacks his report ‘Meth Highway’ for Four Corners, which tracks the crystal meth pipeline from the streets of Melbourne to production sites in South-East Asia. (33:24)Plus, Ro Bright, CEO of Tilde Film Festival, celebrates and reflects on the festival’s 10th anniversary and speaks on the importance of centring non-binary, gender diverse and trans voices within both the festival's programming and its new governance structure and board. (43:53)Finally, Lisa Salvo, singer and songwriter of Melbourne experimental pop band On Diamond, chats about getting back into the swing of live performances and their upcoming residency at Cross Street Music Hall in Melbourne. (57:12)

Warning: this episode contains topics around mental health, violence and the recent attack at Bondi Junction on Saturday April 13. If any of these issues bring you distress, you can visit lifeline at lifeline.org.au or speak with someone on 13 11 14.This episode also contains discussion of homophobia and queerphobia in sport - if you find any of this distressing, you can receive specialised peer support via QLife on 1800 184 527 or head to switchboard.org.au for more info.Dr Christen Cornell, Researcher at Creative Australia, discusses the new research report Soundcheck which analyses the challenges facing the Australian music festival sector amid the recent cancellation of Splendour in the Grass and a number of other Australian music culture mainstays. (0:47)Cam Walker, campaigns coordinator at Friends of the Earth, shares his insights on the Coalition’s recent announcement of the push for nuclear power in its energy policy, and reflects on the 50-year anniversary of Friends of the Earth and their place in community anti-nuclear campaigning. (16:27)Amateur footballer and coach Michael O’Donnell gets into the AFL suspending Jeremy Finlayson for using a homophobic slur, and offers his thoughts on broader issues around safety and the embrace of gay players across professional and amateur levels. (30:24)Dr Anna Ross, Research Fellow at The University of Melbourne, speaks on the responsibility of media reporting on crime and reducing stigma around mental health following the attack at Bondi Junction on Saturday April 13. (43:56)Finally, Melbourne pop eccentric artist Gregor visits to chat about his return from musical hiatus and his creative processes and inspirations as he gears up for his forthcoming album Satanic Lullabies, out May 10 on Chapter Records. (54:37)

Dylan is joined by Andrew Macintosh, Professor of Environmental Law and Policy at ANU, who discusses his research into the integrity of Australia’s carbon credit scheme, which formed the basis of an article in The Saturday Paper The Great Carbon Offset Scam. (0:57)Jeff Sparrow, Senior Lecturer at the Centre for Advancing Journalism at the University of Melbourne, shares his analysis on the recent killing of a number of humanitarian workers in Gaza by the IDF, the response from the Australian and United States governments, and the public outcry in response to the latest wave of violence. (19:20)Artist and audio producer Jess Shane discusses Shocking, Heartbreaking,Transformative - her new podcast out through Radiotopia that subverts the documentary format to analyse the ethics of nonfiction storytelling and the exploitation of people’s real stories. (34:25)Plus, comedian Urvi Majumdar drops by to explore the personal experiences that inspired her new show ‘Burnt’ for the Melbourne International Comedy Festival, and the craft of constructing a comedy show. (1:00:17)And finally, Melbourne musician Maxine Gillon visits to chat about their new single ‘Lipstick’ and current residency at The Old Bar in Melbourne. (1:12:45)

Dylan is joined by David Manne, Executive Director of Refugee Legal, to talk about their work helping Palestinians who had their visitor visas cancelled en-route to Australia.Jill Young drops by to chat about organising Run The Tan for Sam – a run around Melbourne’s iconic Tan track to commemorate Samantha Murphy and reclaim public spaces for women to exercise without fear.Plus, renowned percussionist Jim White tells the story behind his debut solo album All Hits: Memories, the creative experience of writing and recording individually, and his busy touring schedule ahead - including a rare Melbourne headline show with The Dirty Three.

Dylan is joined by economist and bestselling author Yanis Varoufakis to unpack his recent book Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism and why we should be concerned about this new economic and political age.Journalist and author Lech Blaine discusses his Quarterly Essay Bad Cop: Peter Dutton’s Strongman Politics and how Dutton’s political history and identity inform his approach as opposition leader.Plus, Aaron Curnow looks back over the history of his label Spunk Records - which has put out seminal releases from the likes of Smog/Bill Callahan, Sufjan Stevens, Aldous Harding and many more - and why he's decided to call it a day after 25 years.And finally, Deborah Di Natale, CEO of The Council to Homeless Persons, discusses the dire state of homelessness in Victoria ahead of anticipated state government funding cuts.

Dylan is joined by Dr Melinda Hildebrandt, Policy Fellow at the Mitchell Institute, to unpack the Australian Universities Accord Final Report released by the federal government and what its recommendations could mean for the future of tertiary education.William Tilmouth and Jane Vadiveloo, Children’s Ground Chair and CEO, respectively, discuss the M.K Turner Report, a plan for First Nations-led and designed education reform in Australia, after the latest Productivity Commission review into Closing the Gap highlighted that a majority of its targets were not on track.Plus, scientist, educator and Triple R regular Dr Jen Martin drops by to chat about her new book Why Am I Like This?. Lastly, no wave icon Lydia Lunch and genre-bending artist Joseph Keckler preview their upcoming show Tales of Lust and Madness, touring Melbourne and Australia in March.

Dylan is joined by Professor Steven Hail, founder of Modern Money Lab, to chat about government spending ahead of screenings of Finding the Money, a documentary film about reframing conversations on money and economics as part of the Sustainable Living Festival.Dr Mathew Marques, Senior Lecturer in Psychology at La Trobe University, discusses new research into conspiracy theory beliefs and how they don’t change much over time.Benita Kolovos, Victorian state correspondent for The Guardian, gives an update on the latest in Victorian politics, including the upcoming Dunkley by-election, power outages and fires.Plus, musician Leah Senior chats about her show as part of Long Hot Summer – a series of live music, DJ and food experiences in Lorne across February and March, as well as reflections on her 2023 album The Music That I Make, and her creative process.

On the inaugural episode of Future Perfect, Dylan is joined by Dr Max Kaiser, historian and executive officer of the Jewish Council of Australia, to discuss the Council’s formation and concerns of Israel’s actions in Gaza and Rafah, as well as Max’s book on Jewish anti-fascism and settler colonialism narratives.Author Sally Rippin drops by to chat about being named the new Australian Children’s Laureate, what the position involves, and the social issues she intends to focus on in the role.Plus, Zyl Hovenga-Wauchope, Executive Officer of Financial Counselling Victoria, explains how financial counsellors and services can provide help during cost-of-living crises. Tim Lindsey, Director of the Centre for Indonesian Law at the University of Melbourne, unpacks the results of the Indonesian election and what’s happening in the region. And Juliette Lalli, Brunswick Music Festival programmer, visits to talk about the importance of community and representation to the festival.