In this episode of In the Weeds, Dr Catherine Williams sits down with Associate Professor Zim Nwokora from Deakin University—a political scientist and member of the Centre for Public Integrity’s Money in Politics Expert Committee.

In today’s conversation, Zim unpacks innovative approaches to campaign financing—from regulating private donations to exploring mixed public-private models. He advocates for a “kittens model” where many small contributions replace the influence of “fat cat” funding, offering a fresh perspective on creating a more equitable and transparent democratic process.

Tune in for an enlightening discussion that challenges conventional financing models and paves the way for reform in election funding.

Behind the Scenes of Integrity

In this compelling episode of the Centre for Public Integrity’s podcast, journalist Quentin Dempster sits down with the Honourable Anthony Whealy, Founding (and current) Chair of the Centre for Public Integrity. Anthony takes us on a journey from his humble beginnings in Sydney—growing up in a middle‑class family with a bookmaker father—to his transformative education and career in law. Reflecting on his colourful experiences and the battles fought in courtrooms and Parliament alike, Anthony discusses how his post-judicial career opened his eyes to the structural and systemic problems in Australia and developed his passion for the importance of restoring public trust through initiatives like the National Anti-Corruption Commission, and how the Centre’s work continues to shape a fairer, more accountable democracy.

Tune in for a thought-provoking dialogue that underscores the power of integrity in governance.

Former Federal Court judge Michael Barker sits down with Larissa Waters, Senator for Queensland and a leading voice for the Greens. Larissa recounts her journey into politics—beginning with her unexpected entry in 2010 and overcoming a notorious section 44 hiccup—to champion a vision of a more representative and inclusive parliament. Together, they explore how diversity in Parliament is essential for informed, fair policymaking; discuss the pressing need to reform our archaic constitutional eligibility rules; and highlight the critical importance of addressing issues from climate action and environmental justice to gender equality. Join this insightful dialogue that not only unpacks the complexities of modern governance but also reaffirms the promise of democracy when it truly represents all its people.

Join Dr Catherine Williams, Executive Director of the Centre for Public Integrity, as she sits down with Andrew Young, former Clerk of the Victorian Parliament and a key member of Deakin University’s Parliamentary Research Unit. In this episode, Andrew demystifies the process of orders for production of documents—a crucial parliamentary tool that compels the government to release withheld information. He explains how these orders underpin the accountability and transparency necessary for effective lawmaking, while highlighting the alarming decline in compliance and the contentious use of public interest immunity claims. Drawing on comparisons between Victoria and New South Wales, Andrew reveals why independent adjudication is vital to ensure governments cannot simply act as their own arbiters. Tune in for a deep dive into a seemingly esoteric issue that strikes at the very heart of responsible government.

In this candid interview, founding board director Geoffrey Watson, SC, takes us on his remarkable journey—from being inspired by “To Kill a Mockingbird” to becoming a leading anti-corruption crusader. A former counsel assisting the NSW Independent Commission Against Corruption and a teaching fellow at UNSW, Geoffrey reveals the gritty realities of exposing deep-seated corruption, the personal toll of his work, and the insights that have shaped his career in the pursuit of public integrity. Join Quentin Dempster as he delves into Geoffrey’s experiences, the challenges of defending the public interest, and why the fight for accountability remains more crucial than ever.

In this compelling episode, former Federal Court judge Michael Barker KC sits down with Kate Chaney, MP for Curtin, to explore the evolving landscape of Australian democracy. Kate shares her unexpected journey—from a diverse career outside politics to a historic, reluctant run as an independent in a traditionally Liberal seat—to champion long-term thinking, integrity, and community-driven change. Together, they discuss the challenges of the current system, rebuilding trust in our institutions, and creating a political system that truly reflects the values of its people. Tune in for an interesting conversation that redefines what it means to represent and revitalise our democracy.