Episode 90: Albo’s new Labor Ministry, Does the media have a class bias, and Dutton imports culture wars

Van Badham and Ben Davison dive into the new Albanese Government Ministry with a look at some of the key changes as well as an explainer on how "factions" work and directly answer some direct listener questions.

Big appointments in defence, skills, education, environment, climate change, NDIS, government services, aged care, housing, Indigenous Australians, infrastructure, the arts and workplace relations all align with some key Labor priorities for this term of government.  Many groups are already pointing out the passion and commitment the new ministers have for these portfolios, as well as the size of their bibles?  Its a real thing. 

For the first time in a decade Australia has a workplace relations minister who proudly tells people to "join your union" so do it here australiaunions.org.au/wow

The swearing in of the ministry was carried live across the media and some of the bloopers showed a distinct lack of understanding about the backgrounds of the new government and by extension many millions of Australians.  Ben and Van discuss whether there is a class bias in Australian media.

One of the potential problems with a lack of broader political context in journalism is that people like Peter Dutton may try to exploit it and say not untrue but also damaging lies.  Today Dutton imported, lock, stock and barrel, a Trump Republican talking point about teacher unions having too much power.  Apparently the not affiliated to the Labor Party teacher unions control the Labor Party with their "extremist agenda".  Van and Ben discuss why this kind of ultra-conservative babble gets air time and why it shouldn't.

Plus after a record number of downloads in May we thank our Cadre and Extend the Reach supporters, you can check out the supporter page at www.buymeacoffee.com/weekonwednesday