In this episode of the Centre for Public Integrity's podcast, host the Hon Michael Barker KC interviews Andrew Barr, Chief Minister of the ACT. The discussion explores the unique governmental structure of the ACT, combining state and municipal responsibilities, and the impacts of this hybrid model. Topics include the evolution and benefits of self-government, the proportional representation electoral system, political stability, and the growing influence of independents. Barr comments on the challenges of lobbying, the importance of transparency, and recent technological concerns such as AI and deepfakes in politics. He also touches on his own political journey, the significance of civics education, and ongoing efforts to ensure integrity in political financing and lobbying.

In this episode of the Center for Public Integrity's podcast, the Hon Michael Barker KC speaks with Peter Malinauskas, the Premier of South Australia, about the innovative changes to the state's Electoral Act that ban political donations, making elections publicly funded. The discussion delves into the motivations behind these reforms, the influence of Malinauskas' visit to the U.S., and the broader implications for democracy. They also explore the benefits of compulsory voting, the risks of lobbying, and the importance of teaching civics in schools to combat apathy and nurture informed citizens. Premier Malinauskas shares insights from his personal journey into politics and his hopes for the future of democratic engagement in Australia.

Zali Steggall burst onto Australia’s political stage in 2019, unseating a 25-year incumbent to become an outspoken community independent. A world-champion slalom skier turned high-stakes advocate, Zali seamlessly transitioned from life at the Olympic starting gate to the House of Representatives.

In her maiden speech, she warned that big money and “spin” were eroding trust in Parliament—an issue she’s since taken head-on, campaigning to outlaw misleading political advertising and push Australia toward net-zero emissions.

As a former barrister who helped write key climate legislation and fought to cancel offshore gas leases off Sydney’s Northern Beaches, Zali is as comfortable debating amendment clauses in committee rooms as she once was racing down a World Cup course.

On today’s podcast, she’ll share:

• How the “fight-or-flight” pressure of Olympic slalom prepared her for the national parliament
• What it takes to pass truth-in-political-advertising laws (and why the major parties still resist)
• Why she sees a minority government as a chance for genuine cross-bench consensus
• The unfinished business—from closing campaign-finance loopholes to toughening the National Anti-Corruption Commission

Join us to hear how a former world champion skier uses that same razor-sharp focus to tackle Australia’s biggest policy challenges and restore integrity to our democratic process

The Hon Michael Barker KC speaks with Bridget Archer MP, who has gained a national reputation for her independence and principled stances within the Liberal Party. In this episode, they explore what it means to be a genuine community representative in federal politics. Bridget reflects on her philosophy of putting her electorate’s needs first, the challenges of crossing the floor on major issues like the National Anti-Corruption Commission, and why disagreement and difficult conversations are vital for democratic health. She also discusses the risks and benefits of a growing crossbench and what true integrity in politics looks like.

Margaret White AO was the first woman judge appointed in Queensland. Before that, she had already had a remarkable career from working in Barbados, as an academic and then on two of Australia's most significant constitutional law cases (Tasmanian Dams and Mabo).

Following a lengthy period on the bench, Margaret then went on to run Royal Commissions investigating the racing industry and child protection in the Northern Territory. She reflects on their effect and how they emphasised her belief in the importance of robust regulation and accountability.

Currently, she advocates for anti-corruption and democratic integrity as a director for the Center for Public Integrity, motivated by the belief that democracy requires constant vigilance and active participation to thrive.

Former athlete and current independent MP Sophie Scamps reveals her journey from working as a GP to becoming the community independent member for Mackellar.

Through the interview, the Hon Michael Barker KC, former Federal Court Judge and Centre Director, queries the successes, the challenges and the issues outstanding for the 47th Parliament, and for Scamps in particular. And asks whether there is an appetite for bold ideas that challenge the status quo—what if independent selection panels, transparent lobbying, and stronger whistleblower protections could upend a system swamped by big money?

Curious about how grassroots movements are rewriting the rules of governance?

In this episode of the Centre for Public Integrity’s podcast series, former Federal Court Judge and Director at the Centre, Michael Barker, engages with Helen Haines MP, the dynamic independent member for Indi in the Federal Parliament.

Drawing on her deep roots in rural Australia and her unexpected journey into public service, Helen shares how her electorate’s unique challenges—from critical water management and unreliable telecommunications to energy infrastructure and sustainable agriculture—have shaped her commitment to evidence-based policy and democratic accountability.

She reveals how grassroots initiatives and a relentless focus on community engagement have driven her work on reforming parliamentary processes and championing integrity in government.

Tune in to hear Helen’s position on how independent representation can transform policy outcomes and restore trust in our democracy.

Associate Professor Will Partlett is the inaugural Stephen Charles Fellow at the Centre, where he devotes his research to understanding the design and operation of integrity commissions.

As Director of the Centre for Comparative Constitutional Studies, a former fellow of the Brookings Institution, and a leading expert on the centralisation of power,

Will leverages his deep constitutional insight to examine how robust integrity commissions can effectively check concentrated executive authority.

Drawing on critical lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and the evolution of oversight bodies like the National Anti-Corruption Commission, he highlights the essential roles of balanced parliamentary committees, transparent funding, and thoughtful appointment processes in preserving democratic accountability.

Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that blends rigorous legal scholarship with pragmatic strategies to restore public trust in our government..

What if the failures of a controversial government scheme and a historic referendum could ignite a revolution in our democratic process? In this episode, journalist Quentin Dempster sits down with Professor Gabrielle Appleby—one of Australia’s leading constitutional law academics and a board director at the Centre—to explore how her groundbreaking work strives for transparency, accountability, and reform in government.

Drawing on her academic expertise and firsthand observations, Gabrielle recounts her dual role in pivotal democratic debates. She critically examined the shortcomings revealed by the RoboDebt Royal Commission, advocating for reforms to bolster support for in-house government lawyers and prevent systemic failures. Simultaneously, she played a crucial role in the campaign for constitutional recognition of the Voice, where she served as a constitutional specialist advisor during regional dialogues that laid the groundwork for the Uluru Statement from the Heart.

Through her work with the Centre for Public Integrity, Gabrielle champions systemic reforms to enhance government transparency and accountability. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation about how legal scholarship can drive transformative change in our democratic system.

Former Federal Court judge and Centre for Public Integrity Board member, the Hon. Michael Barker KC, sits down with Commonwealth Attorney-General the Hon. Mark Dreyfus KC MP.

Drawing on his extensive parliamentary experience—having served as Attorney-General twice and representing the historic seat of Isaacs in South East Melbourne— Mark reflects on his journey from his early days as a junior climate minister to his tenure in government.

He discusses landmark reforms, including the introduction of the Public Interest Disclosure Act and enhancements to whistleblower protections, as well as the challenges of establishing a National Anti-Corruption Commission.

Together, they delve into the intricate workings of Australian governance, exploring the dynamics of intra-party negotiations, the significance of merit-based appointments, and the critical role of transparency in rebuilding public trust.

Tune in for a thought-provoking dialogue that illuminates the evolving landscape with one of the chief decision-makers on integrity and accountability in our democracy.