Tech giants have invested billions into AI – and are looking for ways to get a return. So when Microsoft offered its customers its new AI function “co-pilot” recently, it told them they’d need to pay a higher price for their subscription – or cancel. AI was now part of the deal, whether they wanted it or not. Except it wasn't. Now, the ACCC is suing Microsoft – alleging they intentionally misled customers to make them believe they had to pay more. It’s part of a bigger campaign to crack down on big tech’s subscription tactics. So can the regulator take on a 6 trillion dollar company and win? Today, principle of Good Company Law Hannah Marshall on the ACCC’s David and Goliath battle to make Microsoft pay – and what needs to change to protect customers from tricky price hikes. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Principle of Good Company Law Hannah MarshallSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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15:55
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15:55
How profit beats safety in childcare
When Joshua Brown was arrested for allegedly abusing children at childcare centers across Melbourne, it exposed a horrifying reality: patchwork regulation and an understaffed, profit-driven industry is failing children. Months on, as state and federal governments try to deal with the fallout – and as the Albanese government pumps record investment into the early childhood sector – experts say children still aren’t safe in childcare. Today, crime reporter at The Age Sherryn Groch on the tension between rapid business growth – and child safety – at the heart of the childcare sector. And just a warning this episode discusses allegations of child sex abuse. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Crime reporter at The Age Sherryn Groch Photo: AAP Image/Joel CarrettSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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17:38
The NACC has a trust problem
The National Anti-Corruption Commission has over 200 employees, an annual budget of $60 million, and has received more than 5,000 referrals. It also hasn’t made a single major corruption finding in the two years it’s been operating. And adding to questions around performance and credibility, it was recently revealed that the NACC’s Chief Commissioner, Paul Brereton, has been consulting for the Defence Force while leading the federal watchdog – which has oversight of the ADF. Today, journalist Nick Feik on the missteps and mismanagement of the NACC, and whether it has any hope of regaining public trust. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Journalist Nick Feik. Photo: AAP Image/Mick TsikasSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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16:12
How China took over the world’s critical minerals
When Anthony Albanese met with Donald Trump, the two leaders cut a deal on critical minerals worth $13 billion. And as we settle into a new phase of the relationship with our most important ally – this is Australia’s crucial bargaining chip, as the US tries to break China’s grip on the supply chain of critical minerals.China’s global domination has been in the works for decades – a grand plan that gives China ready access to materials essential for everything from fighter jets to wind turbines. It also gives Beijing extraordinary leverage over Western economies and defence forces.Today, columnist for Australian Foreign Affairs Ian Verrender, on China’s long game on critical minerals domination – and the old pile of mining waste in Western Australia which could upend it. This episode was originally published in July 2025. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Columnist for Australian Foreign Affairs, Ian VerrenderSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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13:26
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13:26
Is Barnaby at home in One Nation?
Barnaby Joyce has announced he would not recontest his seat of New England, saying his “relationship with the leadership of the Nationals in Canberra has unfortunately, like a sadness in some marriages, irreparably broken down”. People are now guessing whether his flirtation with One Nation will turn into marriage. So does the former Nationals leader belong in Pauline Hanson’s party – and will he be any happier there? Today, journalist and founder of Rampart News, Joe Aston, on whether this is the end of Barnaby’s turbulent career in politics – or the start of a new chapter. If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support. Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram Guest: Journalist and founder of Rampart News, Joe Aston Photo: AAP Image/Lukas CochSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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