SBS News In Depth
SBS News in Depth is a news analysis podcast that goes behind the headlines to explain the stories shaping Australia and the world. In each episode, the SBS News team brings you reporting, analysis and interviews on politics, the economy, social issues and global affairs, helping you understand what's happening and why it matters. New episodes daily.
INTERVIEW: What you need to know about the US Midterm elections
Why the US midterms matter, what they reveal about voter sentiment, and what the results could mean for both parties.
As Americans vote in the US midterm elections, political analyst Larry Sabato explains why the contests are seen as a crucial judgment on Donald Trump’s second term. He discusses the issues shaping voter sentiment, what the polls suggest, and how the outcome could reshape both major parties.
In this episode:
Why midterm elections are considered an important measure of public sentiment during a presidential term.The issues Larry Sabato says are driving voter concerns, in...
Agencies say now is the time for summer emergency plan
Higher than average temperatures and dry conditions are on the way, and governments have shored up supplies as they urge caution this bushfire season.
Australia is preparing for potentially damaging effects of the El Nino weather system, after the National Emergency Management Agency warned of a hotter, drier summer this year.
To bolster resources, the federal government says it has committed more than 150 million dollars to support the national aerial fire-fighting fleet.
In this story:
Authorities warn of a heightened risk of bushfires due to El Nino weather systemA multi-agency campaign to urge...
Could hackers target Australian supermarket fridges?
European fridge hacks raise questions about whether Australian supermarkets could face similar cyberattacks.
A cyberattack that disrupted supermarket fridges and freezers across Europe has raised new questions about food security and infrastructure risks. Could Australian supermarkets face a similar threat? A cybersecurity expert explains how the attacks work, why they're concerning and what can be done to stop them.
In this episode:
How hackers allegedly gained control of supermarket refrigeration systems and caused food to spoil.Why recent attacks in Europe are prompting fresh concerns about cyber threats to critical infrastructure.Whether Australian supermarkets could...
Why renting could make better dollars and sense for many Australians
You may not be able to afford to buy a home, but in 2026, experts say it may not even be the best path to financial security anyway.
If you're one of the millions of Australians who rent because you can't afford to buy a home where you want to live, you may be feeling like you're running behind in a race that keeps getting faster.
But in a vastly changed economic landscape, some experts say its time to admit that for many of us, renting is actually a better path to financial security at some points...
Home values on track to fall at fastest pace in over 40 years
Australian home values have fallen for seven straight months, with another rate rise expected to deepen the downturn.
Australian home values have dropped 6.7 per cent since their March peak, with another expected interest rate rise threatening further weakness. Cotality Head of Research Tim Lawless speaks with Tom Kennedy about the downturn and what comes next for property. SBS Finance Editor Ricardo Gonçalves also speaks with David Scutt, Senior Market Analyst at StoneX, about falling shares, Westpac’s profit and the global forces shaping investment decisions.
In this episode
What is driving the fastest decline in...
Where strangers become family through music
A Melbourne choir is bringing people from diverse backgrounds together through Arabic music, culture and connection.
What started as a former Lebanese grocery store has become a thriving creative hub where more than 100 people gather to sing Arabic classics. SBS's Razanne Al-Abdeli and Essam Al-Ghalib explore how the Haneen Choir is preserving cultural traditions, fostering belonging and connecting people across communities through music.
In this story:
How a Palestinian-Australian musician turned childhood memories into a growing community choirWhy people from diverse cultural backgrounds are embracing Arabic musicThe transformation of a former Lebanese grocery store...
From peaceful protests to petrol bombs: What's happening in Germany?
Petrol bombs, looted shops and more than 100 police officers injured. Germany's Gen Z-led protests have erupted into violence, sparking a government crackdown.
What began as peaceful youth-led demonstrations has descended into violence on Germany's streets. Tens of thousands marched over rising living costs and crumbling schools. But in Frankfurt, rioters hurled petrol bombs at police, smashed shop windows and looted businesses.
With 54 people arrested and authorities promising tough action, what's driving Germany's Gen Z protests and how did they turn violent?
In this episode
Why Germany's Gen Z is taking to the streetsHow...
Could One Nation sway migrant voters in Victoria?
Polling ahead of this November's Victorian state election shows a surge in support for One Nation. But the data suggests that some of their rising support has come from a surprising source - migrant communities.
Polling ahead of this November's Victorian state election shows a surge in support for One Nation.
But the data suggests that some of their rising support has come from a surprising source - migrant communities.
One Nation are running candidates in every seat in Victoria for the lower house but the party has had a controversial and complicated history...
Where strangers become family through music
A Melbourne choir is bringing people from diverse backgrounds together through Arabic music, culture and connection.
What started as a former Lebanese grocery store has become a thriving creative hub where more than 100 people gather to sing Arabic classics.
SBS's Razanne Al-Abdeli and Essam Al-Ghalib explore how the Haneen Choir is preserving cultural traditions, fostering belonging and connecting people across communities through music.
In this story:
How a Palestinian-Australian musician turned childhood memories into a growing community choir
Why people from diverse cultural backgrounds are embracing Arabic music<...
Cape York's housing crisis: 11 years waiting for a home
Cape York's housing crisis is worsening, with fears climate migration could put further pressure on First Nations communities.
Cape York resident Rebecca Williams spent 11 years on a social housing waitlist. Her story highlights a chronic housing crisis in remote Far North Queensland, where residents now fear climate migration from the Torres Strait could put even more pressure on their communities.
This story was produced in collaboration with Frankie Adkins, with support from the Pulitzer Center.
In this episode
Why some First Nations residents are waiting years for...
US midterms: The battle that could derail Trump's presidency
Donald Trump isn't on the ballot in the US midterm elections, but the stakes for his presidency are enormous. We look at the battlegrounds that could decide control of Congress and what the result could mean for his final two years in office.
Americans are preparing to vote in crucial midterm elections that could reshape the remainder of Donald Trump's presidency.
With Republicans fighting to retain control of Congress, Democrats are hoping to capitalise on voter frustration over the cost of living and Trump's policies.
But with tight races in key battleground states, could...
Is AI making us dumber? We asked smart people
As people outsource an increasing number of cognitive tasks to AI models, high-profile studies are revealing a link to a decline in brain function. So what do we do about it?
Concerns around the use of generative and agentic AI have been described in some quarters as the latest moral panic, following on the heels of TV and the internet.
But as AI develops and solves problems beyond human scope, is there a risk that the smarter our devices get, the dumber we are becoming?
In this story
What does AI...
Could One Nation sway migrant voters in Victoria?
Polling ahead of this November's Victorian state election shows a surge in support for One Nation. But the data suggests that some of their rising support has come from a surprising source - migrant communities.
Polling ahead of this November's Victorian state election shows a surge in support for One Nation.
But the data suggests that some of their rising support has come from a surprising source - migrant communities.
One Nation are running candidates in every seat in Victoria for the lower house but the party has had a controversial and complicated history...
Why Black Friday bargains could be bigger this year
Slowing retail sales could mean bigger Black Friday discounts this year, as shoppers face renewed interest rate pressures.
Slowing retail sales and cost-of-living pressures could deliver bigger Black Friday and Christmas bargains. But with inflation rising and uncertainty over the RBA's next move, what does it mean for shoppers and investors?
SBS Finance Editor Ricardo Gonçalves speaks with Betashares Investment Strategist Hugh Lam about consumer spending, interest rates, global markets and the Australian dollar's 13-year high against the New Zealand dollar.
In this episode:
Why could B...
Diwali explained: The traditions behind the Festival of Lights
Why are millions celebrating Diwali, and what's behind the lights, sweets and colourful traditions? Discover the meaning of the Festival of Lights and how it's celebrated across Australia.
More than just lights and celebrations, Diwali is a five-day festival rich in meaning, food and tradition.
From family rituals to festive feasts, discover how different communities mark the occasion and why calls are growing for greater recognition in Australia.
In this episode:
Why is Diwali celebrated?What's the meaning behind the lights?How do traditions differ across cultures?What...
‘In Israel, it’s always a surprise’: Can Netanyahu, the ultimate survivor, do it again?
The votes are being counted in Israel, and Ben Lewis is in Tel Aviv to pull back the curtain on what could be the country’s most consequential election ever.
The votes are being counted in Israel, and Ben Lewis is in Tel Aviv to pull back the curtain on what could be the country’s most consequential election ever. While in Brazil, Lula da Silva has won a shock fourth term, and Flavio Bolsonaro fleeing to the US. Serbia’s months-long student protest movement has peacefully ousted the country’s far-right leader Aleksandar Vucic after 12 years in power, b...
'They tortured my brother': Critics targeted in Australia
Foreign governments are accused of threatening and intimidating critics living in Australia. As a Senate inquiry examines transnational repression, those targeted are calling for stronger protections.
Australian citizen Salman Shabbir alleges his brother was abducted and tortured in Pakistan to silence his political activism in Sydney.
SBS News reporter Tee Mitchell investigates transnational repression, the challenges facing those targeted and whether Australian laws offer enough protection.
In this episode:
How did political activism in Sydney allegedly lead to torture in Pakistan?How far will foreign governments go to silence...
INTERVIEW: Why the ICC won't be deterred by US santions
The International Criminal Court says it won't be intimidated by US sanctions. Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan tells SBS Chief Political Correspondent Anna Henderson why its work will continue and what Australia must do if Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu travels here.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is facing US sanctions over its arrest warrant for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who denies allegations of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
ICC Deputy Prosecutor Nazhat Shameem Khan explains why the court won't back down, how the sanctions are affecting its work and Australia's obligations under international...
Inflation rises: Is a Melbourne Cup Day rate hike next?
Australia's inflation rate has climbed to 4.3 per cent, raising the prospect of another RBA rate rise. What does it mean for interest rates and investors?
'Turbocharging anger': Australia's online safety crackdown
Australia's online safety bill advances amid warnings about rising online hate, as politicians clash over free speech and the responsibilities of tech giants.
Why Greek guards with pom-pom shoes and skirts are in Australia
Guards, also known as 'Evzones' or 'Tsoliades', are touring major cities in Australia. Why the Hellenic Presidential Guard visit to Canberra and Sydney means a great deal to the Greek diaspora community.
Israel election cliffhanger: Can Netanyahu hold on to power?
Israel's election could end Benjamin Netanyahu's long political career, with exit polls pointing to a deadlock and his future hanging in the balance.
Anthropic's IPO tests the AI investment boom
Anthropic's sales are soaring, but questions remain about the AI boom, with its IPO seen as a major test for the sector.
Is Aged Care Assessment tool the new Robodebt?
A Commonwealth Ombudsman report has found the government's automated aged care assessment tool is producing unfair outcomes and undermining public confidence.
Inside America's battleground states ahead of US midterms
SBS World News reporter Alex Jones explores the issues shaping the US midterm elections after travelling through key battleground states. She speaks with Peggy Giakoumelos about what she discovered.
Lula's historic comeback: What's next for Brazil?
Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has won a historic fourth term after trailing his right-wing rival in the first round of voting.
Australia's hunger crisis: Food insecurity goes mainstream
Foodbank Australia has found one in three households experienced food insecurity in the past year, as hunger becomes increasingly "mainstream" in 2026.
Could Victoria shift right after 12 years of Labor?
As Victoria prepares to vote, major and minor parties are battling for support on the issues that matter most to voters.
What's at stake in Israel? Election preview with SBS Hebrew
Israelis are preparing to vote in a pivotal election. Benjamin Netanyahu's leadership, accountability for the October 7 attacks and deep political divisions dominate the campaign. SBS News Reporter Hannah Hodson speaks to Michael Bartura from SBS Hebrew.
As Israel heads to the polls, questions over security, leadership and the country's future loom large.
SBS News' Hannah Hodson speaks with Michael Bartura from SBS Hebrew about Netanyahu's leadership, military conscription, the influence of Arab Israeli voters and what the election means for Israelis living in Australia.
Inflation data puts the RBA’s next move in focus
Wednesday’s inflation figures could shape next week’s rate decision, as investors weigh oil prices and global uncertainty.
What would Helen do? A powerful message from Parliament
Australian politicians have used the first sitting day of federal parliament to reflect on how to improve the culture of political debate, as independent MP Helen Haines recovers in hospital after being struck by a car outside her electorate office in regional Victoria.
Israelis in Kibbutz recount Oct 7 attacks, ahead of Knesset election
SBS News visits Kibbutz Be’eri, where 131 Israelis were killed by Hamas and dozens more were abducted to Gaza during the October 7 attacks.
Written in the stars: The mystery of Van Gogh's masterpiece
More than 130 years after Vincent van Gogh painted The Starry Night, researchers believe they've identified the real stars that inspired one of the world's most famous artworks.
More than 130 years after Vincent van Gogh painted The Starry Night, researchers believe they've identified the real stars that inspired one of the world's most famous artworks.
Using astronomical modelling, historical weather data and Van Gogh's own letters, a South Korean team argues the painting depicts the Hyades star cluster rather than a previously suggested constellation.
The findings have renewed interest in the masterpiece that later inspired...
Australia's newest airport in Western Sydney opens for business
Australians are hoping for cheaper airfares as Western Sydney International welcomes its first passengers. The opening of Australia's newest airport promises more competition, new routes and economic growth.
The first commercial flight has departed Western Sydney International Airport, marking a milestone for Australia's aviation industry. Reporter Caroline Riches looks at the promise of cheaper flights, thousands of jobs, expanded freight capacity and the challenges still facing the airport, including delayed rail links.
In this episode:
How the Western Sydney International could increase competition and help drive down airfaresWhat the new 24-hour airport means for businesses...
The First Nations community using tech to preserve culture
The Indigenous people of the Wiikwemkoong in Canada have found a high tech solution to protect their cultural heritage.
For thousands of years, First Nations people in the unceded territory have passed down traditions through oral storytelling. Now, this community has installed a microdata centre to save photos, videos and recordings of their elders.
In this episode
Why the Wiikwemkoong First Nation built a micro data centre to protect cultural knowledge.How digital records are helping preserve language, stories and community history.The role of data sovereignty in Indigenous control over information.Varied opinions on...
Oil hits five-month high as markets weigh inflation risks
Oil reaches about US$114 a barrel as investors weigh inflation, interest rates and the Australian dollar.
Retiring Liberal senator Jonno Duniam on his party's challenges
Is the Liberal Party a sinking ship? Retiring senator Jonno Duniam faces questions on migration, visa delays and his party's future.
As he prepares to leave federal politics, Liberal senator Jonno Duniam faces tough questions on migration, visa delays and the rise of One Nation. From AI regulation to his party's political future, he speaks to SBS News Chief Political Correspondent Anna Henderson.
In this episode;
Jonno Duniam's decision to walk away from federal politics.The Coalition's tougher migration policies and skilled visa rules.Australia's visa deal with India and family visa backlogs...
Australian MP injured in alleged attack, Europe rocked by riots
An alleged attack on well-loved regional MP Helen Haines leaves Australia grappling with the reality of political violence on its shores. We’re joined by SBS’ Canberra bureau to discuss the fallout for the community and the country’s political culture. Meanwhile, European cities are reeling from riots this week, especially across France. How will the unrest affect French presidential elections, and will it give Marine Le Pen’s right wing the edge it needs? We dive deep on what the US midterms mean for Trump’s presidency as campaigns ramp up. Plus, the unusual solution Chinese parents have found to deal wi...
What rural American voters want ahead of the midterms
In the Republican heartland of southwestern Arizona, growing disillusionment with Donald Trump is testing party loyalties ahead of the US midterm elections.
Some former supporters say they feel betrayed by his broken promises, raising questions about whether Republican candidates could pay the price.
In this episode:
What voters are saying on the ground in the Republican stronghold How Hispanic voters plan to vote this midtermThe rise of political independent votersHow cost-of-living considerations are impacting voter choicesWill the Republicans lose votes because of growing dissatisfaction with President Trump and how significant are these midterms for the...
Australia's rising threat of radicalisation
Authorities and security agencies are warning that online radicalisation is growing and becoming more accessible in the country.
Warnings have emerged at a parliamentary inquiry examining the nature and drivers of radicalisation in Australia, with authorities pointing to a sharp increase in reports of pro-terrorism material online. So, how is technology and AI changing the threat - and what can be done to stop online radicalisation before it turns into violence?
In this episode:
What the AFP and other experts said at the parliamentary inquiry into the nature and drivers of radicalisation in Australia.How...
