Both Sides of the Tracks
by Andrew Mackinnon
Australia may have avoided the worst of the financial crisis, but the effects of the economic downturn are still trickling through. Andrew Mackinnon speaks with two individuals from seemingly two different worlds - Dave, a vendor for The Big Issue and Peter, a financier at the Australian Stock Exchange - about the GFC and the role money plays within society.
Local
Families on the Streets
This year welfare agencies across Australia have reported an alarming increase in the number of families becoming homeless. Eugenia Lee investigates a revolutionary plan that may be a solution to the problem.
Both Sides of the Tracks
Australia may have avoided the worst of the financial crisis, but the effects of the economic downturn are still trickling through. Andrew Mackinnon speaks with two individuals from seemingly two different worlds - Dave, a vendor for The Big Issue and Peter, a financier at the Australian Stock Exchange - about the GFC and the role money plays within society.
The Price of Partial Equality?
Legislation has finally forced Centrelink to recognise same-sex couples, but Alex Taylor investigates the decision to not include a grandfather clause in the changes.
Environment & Science
Scientists Challenge PM and Coal CEOs to Act on Climate Change
Australia's top climate scientists have written to the Prime Minister and coal industry CEOs, urging them to take responsibility for their role in climate change and to shut down coal-fired power stations – the major source of greenhouse gas emissions in Australia. Elaine McKewon reports.
One Man's Junk is Another Man's Freebie
Savvy Australians are increasingly going online to seek out household goods for free. Natali Mansberg reports on the Freecycle phenomenon.
The Beauty Within the Bin
One person's trash is another's treasure - almost literally in the case of the Kimbriki Exhibition of Visual Art, with all the artworks coming from the dump, either physically or metaphorically. By Rebecca LeMay.
Media
Dances with Wolves
Once one of the most popular politicians in Australia, then one of the most derided, Cheryl Kernot’s political career has had more ups and downs than Kevin Rudd’s temper tantrums. The former leader of the Democrats talks candidly to Zoya Sheftalovich about the scandal that almost destroyed her political legacy, and the past, present and future of Australian politics.
Brands Take a Page out of the New Facebook
Consumer brands have celebrated the birth of the "new Facebook". Agilene De Villa reports on the future of social networking.
Freedom of Information Revolution
The Freedom of Information Act will be revolutionised by new legislation, but whether this will lead to greater transparency in media access to documents remains to be seen. Simon Black reports.
Arts & Entertainment
Gender Blender
The nation’s true master chef, Margaret Fulton may teach ordinary Aussies their way around the kitchen but the straight-talking businesswoman is far from the traditional housewife. She grants an audience to Michael Romei.
The Life of Bryan
The most Aussie of Aussie exports, bloke-next-door Bryan Brown has resisted the lure of Hollywood to establish himself as a champion of local cinema, as Michael Romei writes.
The Bloom Factor
An interview with Janelle Bloom is an unconventional experience, with the famed Ready Steady Cook chef offering more than just her insights. As Michael Romei discovers, the quickest way to a person's heart really is through food.
