The pandemic has fast turned Australia into two countries - the COVID states, and the COVID-free states, with border closures now a brutal necessity. So, how does Australia stay united? Also, it is vital we can trust our sources of news and information during a pandemic. Conspiracy theories, fake news and the influence of big tech are all under the microscope, as a new code comes into force requiring the digital giants to pay old media for news content. Will that solve the problems? Joining Hamish to discuss all of this are: Barnaby Joyce, Nationals Member for New England; Michelle Rowland, Shadow Communications Minister; Antoinette Lattouf, journalist and diversity advocate; Niki Savva, columnist and author; Ziggy Ramo, musician; and Sinead Boucher, Chief executive and owner of Stuff Ltd.

The Federal Government’s so-called “women’s ministry” meets for the first time this week in an attempt to drive action when it comes to the treatment of women. Will it be enough to turn the Prime Minister’s fortune around? The Government is also trying to turn around its vaccine rollout, as it fails to reach its targets; what can be done to accelerate and restore confidence in the process? And, as another Indigenous Australian died in custody this week, how do Australians turn the tide against Indigenous disadvantage and stop First Nations people dying in prison? Joining Hamish Macdonald on the panel to discuss these topics are: Trent Zimmerman, Liberal Member for North Sydney; Anika Wells, Labor Member for Lilley; Martyn Iles, Managing Director of the Australian Christian Lobby; Antoinette Lattouf, journalist, diversity advocate, and author; and Teela Reid, Wiradjuri/Wailwan, lawyer. With a live performance from singer-songwriter Robbie Miller.