“Pay $10,000, that gets you dinner”: Sean Kelly on how power is shaping politics
Aug 8, 2026 •
In Australian politics, access can be bought, factions can operate beyond public view, and conduct can be deeply troubling without ever meeting the definition of corruption.
None of it is especially new, and maybe that’s the problem.
Meanwhile, people are becoming more disconnected from the institutions that shape their lives, and less convinced that those institutions are working in their interests.
Today, columnist for The Age and SMH Sean Kelly, on the money, secrecy and private power shaping our politics, and what happens when voters stop trusting the system itself.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
“Pay $10,000, that gets you dinner”: Sean Kelly on how power is shaping politics
2007 • Aug 8, 2026
“Pay $10,000, that gets you dinner”: Sean Kelly on how power is shaping politics
In Australian politics, access can be bought, factions can operate beyond public view, and conduct can be deeply troubling without ever meeting the definition of corruption.
None of it is especially new, and maybe that’s the problem.
Meanwhile, people are becoming more disconnected from the institutions that shape their lives, and less convinced that those institutions are working in their interests.
Today, columnist for The Age and SMH Sean Kelly, on the money, secrecy and private power shaping our politics, and what happens when voters stop trusting the system itself.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Columnist for The Age and SMH Sean Kelly
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