“Dumb bigotry” and recession warnings: the week in politics
Apr 18, 2026 •
This week, the Albanese government has been forced to confront a growing sense of instability, with fresh warnings from the IMF about the global economy, including the potential impact on Australia.
It’s placed new pressure on Treasurer Jim Chalmers ahead of the budget, as the government deals with a fuel supply scare that pulled the prime minister back to the country in the middle of an overseas mission to secure supplies for the nation.
As Labor tries to steady nerves, the opposition is pushing a hard line on migration, with Angus Taylor reaching for politics that feel both familiar and deliberately divisive – so much so that it prompted a former prime minister to release a scathing statement.
Today, press gallery veteran Paul Bongiorno on the economic anxiety hanging over the government, the opposition's incendiary pitch on migration, and how both sides are trying to define the moment.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
“Dumb bigotry” and recession warnings: the week in politics
1883 • Apr 18, 2026
“Dumb bigotry” and recession warnings: the week in politics
This week, the Albanese government has been forced to confront a growing sense of instability, with fresh warnings from the IMF about the global economy, including the potential impact on Australia.
It’s placed new pressure on Treasurer Jim Chalmers ahead of the budget, as the government deals with a fuel supply scare that pulled the prime minister back to the country in the middle of an overseas mission to secure supplies for the nation.
As Labor tries to steady nerves, the opposition is pushing a hard line on migration, with Angus Taylor reaching for politics that feel both familiar and deliberately divisive – so much so that it prompted a former prime minister to release a scathing statement.
Today, press gallery veteran Paul Bongiorno on the economic anxiety hanging over the government, the opposition's incendiary pitch on migration, and how both sides are trying to define the moment.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Press Gallery veteran Paul Bongiorno
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7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.
It’s made by Arielle Richards, Atticus Bastow, Chris Dengate, Daniel James, Krystal Keller, Nicole Johnston, Travis Evans and Zoltan Fecso.
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