The 'jobs for mates' report Labor wanted to hide
Dec 6, 2025 •
When Labor came to power, it promised to clean up politics – to end the “jobs for mates” culture once and for all. But this week, the government quietly released the report it’s been sitting on for more than two years – and it’s not a great look.
The ‘No Favourites’ review found an appointments system riddled with nepotism, where friends are given jobs as rewards for loyalty. And when it finally saw the light of day, it landed with all the energy of a Yes Minister episode — open government, in name only.
Today, press gallery journalist Karen Middleton, on the government’s integrity problem, and why transparency always seems to be the last priority.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
The 'jobs for mates' report Labor wanted to hide
1746 • Dec 6, 2025
The 'jobs for mates' report Labor wanted to hide
When Labor came to power, it promised to clean up politics – to end the “jobs for mates” culture once and for all. But this week, the government quietly released the report it’s been sitting on for more than two years – and it’s not a great look.
The ‘No Favourites’ review found an appointments system riddled with nepotism, where friends are given jobs as rewards for loyalty. And when it finally saw the light of day, it landed with all the energy of a Yes Minister episode — open government, in name only.
Today, press gallery journalist Karen Middleton, on the government’s integrity problem, and why transparency always seems to be the last priority.
If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.
Guest: Press gallery journalist Karen Middleton
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7am is a daily show from Solstice Media.
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