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The disappearance of a Chinese tennis star
Earlier this month, Peng Shuai, one of China’s most successful tennis stars posted a statement on social media, detailing allegations of sexual harassment. Half an hour later, the post, and her entire feed disappeared. Then she did too. Today, Linda Jaivin on what happened to one of China’s biggest sports stars.
How to make a law for consent
For years, advocates against sexual assault have been pushing for law reform, particularly on the issue of consent. Now they’ve had a win, with sweeping new changes announced in NSW. Today, Bri Lee on what the changes mean, and the politician leading the charge.
Kate Manne on why we don't believe women
Five years on from when MeToo went global, high profile allegations of assault and harassment still make headlines but justice rarely seems to be served. Today, writer and philosopher Kate Manne on why we need to not only believe women, but create a society that actually cares when they are harmed.
Weekend Read: Bri Lee on consent and sex education
Author and activist Bri Lee regularly runs workshops on consent and sex in schools. In the upcoming issue of The Monthly Bri writes about those workshops in the context of a growing national conversation about sexual harassment and assault. In this special weekend episode of 7am Bri reads her article, 'Ill-informed consent'.
Scott Morrison says he’s listening. Should we believe him?
Scott Morrison told the women of Australia this week he was listening to their concerns. But since then the Liberal Party has been rocked by more and more allegations of bad behaviour and sexism. Today, Rachel Withers on what this week revealed about Australian politics, and whether Scott Morrison’s actions are living up to his words.
“The system isn't broken. It was never set up for women.”
Last week’s march for justice highlighted how the justice system stacked against women, from the law, to the police, to the courts. Today, Bri Lee on the barriers to justice, and the steps being taken to reform the system.
Christian Porter goes back to parliament
Christian Porter is still facing calls for an inquiry into allegations of sexual assault levelled against him, allegations he denies. But Porter has announced he will return to parliament in his role as the nation’s first law officer. Today, Paul Bongiorno on the conflicts of interest facing the attorney-general.
As Australians march for justice, Christian Porter sues
Thousands of Australians marched in cities and towns across the country yesterday. The protests were sparked by allegations of sexual harassment and assault in federal parliament. Today, Karen Middleton on the march for justice, and whether the government is taking notice.
tHe RuLe oF LaW
The Prime Minister has declared Christian Porter “innocent” and said any inquiry into the allegations of sexual assault would undermine the rule of law. Today, Rachel Withers on what exactly the rule of law means, and whether it’s a sufficient enough justification to stop an inquiry from going ahead.
Inside the Christian Porter strategy
The Attorney-General has so far refused to resign, denying the rape allegation levelled against him. He’s been supported by senior ministers and the Prime Minister. Today, Paul Bongiorno on how Scott Morrison fought alongside Christian Porter to keep him in his job, and what happens next.
Christian Porter names himself (plus, Australia’s university crisis)
The federal Attorney-General Christian Porter has identified himself as the cabinet minister accused of a sexual assault that allegedly took place in 1988. He strongly denied the allegations and refused to resign or step aside. Also on today’s show, Judith Brett on the crisis facing Australia’s university sector.
The sexual assault crisis that rocked Australia
A cabinet minister in the federal government has been accused of rape, but he hasn’t been publicly identified and the Prime Minister has so far refused to initiate an inquiry into the allegations. Today, Karen Middleton on the sexual assault crisis that has rocked the country.
Sacked after speaking up
Recent scandals and allegations of workplace bullying have put the spotlight on the treatment of women in Parliament. Today, Karen Middleton on the unique power dynamic between politicians and the people who work for them.