David Speers

The ABC's political reporters, commentators and broadcasters reflect on what defined the year in politics.

This was a humbled prime minister. Showing contrition, some regret, and an acknowledgement more could have been done.

A year ago Australia’s Race Discrimination Commissioner delivered the National Anti-Racism Framework. 

While it was commissioned by the Albanese Government, they are yet to formally respond. 

Commissioner Giridharan Sivaraman has decided its time to speak out. He sat down with David Speers for this week’s Insiders: On Background.

Despite holding a commanding position, Anthony Albanese knows the global trend of sliding trust in government isn't one to be taken lightly.

Economic Report Card | Insiders On Background 

The level of the prime minister's reform appetite has been discussed and debated since roughly 9pm on election night in May, when Labor's massive win became clear. 

The ABC has been told the federal government is willing to ensure native forestry complies with tougher new standards within three years if the Greens back the reforms. 

With the final parliamentary sitting of the year fast approaching, the Federal Government is eager to pass its environmental law reforms. 

The prime minister, when in opposition, accused the Coalition of "hollowing out" the CSIRO. Now, following the announcement 350 research positions at the organisation will be cut, he is being accused of being "worse than Abbott".

The most authoritative snapshot of where the global energy transition is going has just been released at a most opportune moment for any politician weighing which direction Australia should pursue.

What's at stake for the Liberals if they move to dump their position on net zero? The ABC's Political Lead David Speers analyses the path ahead for the party and Sussan Ley's leadership.

If, as expected, the net zero target is abandoned, the long delay in reaching this point will leave the Liberals looking like they've capitulated once again to the Nationals.

Is it possible to both save the environment, while also speeding up decisions on mining, housing, and energy projects? Environment Minister Murray Watt thinks he's found the answer and is confident he will pass new laws with support from either the Coalition or the Greens. 

The government can't hide its frustration with Rio Tinto, but at the same time it's preparing to dip deeper into taxpayers' pockets to help the company out. Again.

Donald Trump has dismissed the prospect of China invading Taiwan. Australia's alliance with the US is deepening, so what does this mean for defence spending and military planning? ASPI's Justin Bassi joined David Speers for this week's podcast.

There was something Donald Trump said that alarmed strategic analysts. And it had nothing to do with disliking Kevin Rudd.

In declaring he won't be recontesting his lower house seat and letting speculation run that he might jump ship for One Nation, Barnaby Joyce is declaring he's had enough with the Nationals under David Littleproud.

Trump may have expressed "shock", but his administration is clearly not surprised at China's willingness to flex its dominance on rare earths. 

The government is determined to avoid wearing any blame for Optus' failure but also needs to be transparent about how it handled early advice from the telco.

Australia and Türkiye are at loggerheads over who will host the massive international event, with insiders suggesting the countries could share the hosting rights.

For the first time since becoming Prime Minister more than three years ago, Anthony Albanese has delivered an address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Australia's willingness to take on the social media giants is drawing significant international interest, winning the support of the European Commission president at a forum in New York.

Trump clearly disagrees with Albanese on Palestine and the reality of climate change, but it's not on the scale of the beef he has with other countries.

The US president's itinerary for his 24-hour visit to New York makes no mention of Anthony Albanese, all but confirming a one-on-one will not be happening.

The Federal Opposition leader Sussan Ley has apologised to the Indian Australian community for comments made by Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price last week.