Season 2, Episode 1 – John Howard on Nuclear Power, Immigration & Australia’s Future

We kick off Season 2 with one of the most consequential figures in modern Australian politics — former Prime Minister John Howard.

In this wide-ranging conversation, Mr Howard reflects on the decisions that shaped Australia’s economic and political landscape, including why his government introduced a ban and moratorium on nuclear power — and why he now believes that decision must be overturned if Australia is serious about its energy future. He explains the political trade-offs of the time, including negotiations with the Democrats and the Greens, and the deal that saw investment in nuclear medicine at Lucas Heights come at the cost of a long-term nuclear power industry.

We also dive into the privatisation of Telstra, why Howard believed it was critical for the nation, and how political compromise defined that era of reform.

On immigration, Mr Howard revisits his famous words: “We will decide who comes to this country, and the circumstances in which they come.” He reflects on Australia’s historically successful immigration program throughout the 1900s — and why he believes the scale and composition of immigration today is placing too much pressure on the system.

The discussion also covers Australia’s resources and mining sector, tax policy and the introduction of the GST, as well as the legacy of Australia’s gun laws.

A candid, thoughtful and timely conversation with a former Prime Minister — and a powerful way to begin Season 2.