Perth Dialogues

In this conversation, Sergio Famiano outlines the historical roots of the rise and later unravelling of the Australian Housing Dream and how decades of decisions shape today’s problems.

Sergio Famiano is an expert in Town Planning and leader in the planning and delivery of complex projects and author of the book ‘The New Australian Dream: Rethinking our homes and cities to solve the housing crisis’.

Join Sergio Famiano at https://sergiofamiano.com/

00:00 Introduction

01:19 Start of Australian Dream

02:43 Contributions of Robert Menzies

07:18 Contribution from Industrial Strength

09:13 Unravelling of Australian Dream

10:37 Introduction of Neo-liberalism

12:39 Gough Whitlam's policies

14:46 Hawke-Keating Policies of Neo-Liberalism

18:03 Entry of Women in Workforce

19:03 The Rise of Property Investment and Its Consequences

19:57 Wages falling behind Productivity

23:10 Capital Gains & Negative Gearing Concessions

27:12 Immigration fuelling Housing Crisis

29:04 Planning Bottlenecks in Housing

31:55 Economic Factors Influencing Australia's Housing Market

32:55 Effect of COVID

37:20 Government incentives fuelling Inflation

39:15 Need to solve Housing Crisis

43:16 Requiem for the Australian Dream

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Perth Dialogues is a platform to celebrate migrant success in Australia, bringing Australian and migrant communities closer and helping understand Australian issues.

Join and Subscribe to Perth Dialogues on our channels 👇

Support us Here: https://perthdialogues.au/

Join on YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/PD-Youtube

Listen on Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/PD-Spotify

Apple Podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/PD-ApplePodcasts

Amazon Music: https://tinyurl.com/PD-AmazonMusic

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Follow our host, Nirmal Singh, at

Website: https://nirmalsingh.au/

X (Twitter): https://x.com/nirmalsingh

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nirmalsingh.au

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nirmalsingh.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/psknirmal/

In this conversation, Rash Dhanjal, a top-performing real estate agent and director at The Agency in Perth, Western Australia, delves into the current state of the housing market in Western Australia. With median house prices soaring to a million dollars and a housing crisis looming, he sheds light on the factors driving these changes and how buyers can still buy their first home. Join Rash Dhanjal at https://teamrash.com.au/team/Join Nirmal Singh at https://nirmalsingh.au/ 01:24 Drivers of Million Dollar Homes05:04 Government Schemes and Their Impact08:32 Market Dynamics in Different Suburbs11:04 Future Projections and Economic Drivers13:57 AUKUS & WA Housing Market16:48 Unit Market Growth and Affordability21:25 Understanding Market Trends24:41 Is Million Dollar Home the New Normal?27:00 How to buy in Current Market?===============================================Perth Dialogues is a platform to celebrate migrant success in Australia, bringing Australian and migrant communities closer and helping understand Australian issues.Join and Subscribe to Perth Dialogues on our channels 👇Website: https://perthdialogues.au/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@perthdialoguesSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5xtPxMoU7ley1kiqYUt90xApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/perth-dialogues/id1792572402 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a5bb32f6-862c-43c3-8214-6cea11f035a0/perth-dialoguesCopyrights © All Rights Reserved with Perth Dialogues.

Sergio Famiano is an expert in Town Planning and leader in the planning and delivery of complex projects and author of the book ‘The New Australian Dream: Rethinking our homes and cities to solve the housing crisis’. In this conversation, Sergio delves into the Australian housing crisis, exploring its historical roots, economic impacts, and potential policy solutions. The discussion highlights the complexity of the issue, emphasising the need for a multifaceted approach to address housing affordability and availability.Join Sergio Famiano at https://sergiofamiano.com/ Join Nirmal Singh at https://nirmalsingh.au/ 00:00 The Australian Housing Crisis: A Historical Perspective02:03 Rise of Australian Dream04:12 Unravelling of Australian Dream08:24 Economic Factors Influencing Australia's Housing Market11:33 The Impact of Household Debt on the Economy15:25 Consumer Expectations vs. Policy Failures in Housing20:39 The Political Landscape of Negative Gearing29:59 Addressing the Construction Crisis36:32 Short-Term Solutions for the Housing Crisis41:07 Government Actions for Housing Supply43:20 The Role of Immigration in Housing Demand46:18 Government Taxes and Housing Affordability51:06 Foreign Investment and Vacant Properties58:26 Infill Development vs. Suburban Expansion01:05:31 The Future of Housing in Australia01:12:03 Closing thoughts============================================================Perth Dialogues is a platform to celebrate migrant success in Australia, bringing Australian and migrant communities closer and helping understand Australian issues.Join and Subscribe to Perth Dialogues on our channels 👇Website: https://perthdialogues.au/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@perthdialoguesSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5xtPxMoU7ley1kiqYUt90xApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/perth-dialogues/id1792572402 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a5bb32f6-862c-43c3-8214-6cea11f035a0/perth-dialogues

Professor Matthew Ogilvie is an Australian theologian and academic known for his work on Catholic identity, education, and the Catholic intellectual tradition. He serves as a professor of theology at the University of Notre Dame Australia and has previously held leadership roles such as dean within its School of Philosophy and Theology. Prof Ogilvie is also the Chair of Friends of Israel WA and a Self-Defence Instructor at Protect WA Krav Maga. Join Prof. Matthew Ogilvie at https://www.ogilvieweb.com/ Join Nirmal Singh at https://nirmalsingh.au/ 01:50 The Bondi Terror Attack: Context and Significance07:39 Understanding Hanukkah and Its Importance13:42 Calls for a Royal Commission: Community Demands21:45 Exploring the Drivers of Terrorism28:07 The Concept of Intifada and Its Implications32:07 The Role of Protests and Media in Shaping Narratives41:17 The Lone Wolf Phenomenon in Terrorism56:31 Political Dynamics and Muslim Communities01:08:48 Free Speech vs. Hate Speech: Finding the Balance01:15:26 Universities and Ideological Dominance01:23:49 Migration Policies: Vetting and Monitoring01:39:33 Leadership and National Security: A Call to Action===============================================Perth Dialogues is a platform to celebrate migrant success in Australia, bringing Australian and migrant communities closer and helping understand Australian issues.Join and Subscribe to Perth Dialogues on our channels 👇Website: https://perthdialogues.au/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@perthdialoguesSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5xtPxMoU7ley1kiqYUt90xApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/perth-dialogues/id1792572402 Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a5bb32f6-862c-43c3-8214-6cea11f035a0/perth-dialogues

Vern Hughes is an Australian civil society advocate, social entrepreneur, and political organiser known for his work in community-based reform and centrist politics. He has been active for several decades in efforts to strengthen citizen participation and rebuild trust in democratic institutions.

Join Vern Hughes at https://www.linkedin.com/in/vern-hughes-92341119/

Know about the host, Nirmal Singh, at https://nirmalsingh.au/

01:28 Context of Bondi Beach Terror Attack

05:45 The Inevitable Nature of Such Incidents

08:34 The Role of Global Conflicts in Local Incidents

11:23 Media Influence and Public Debate

14:26 Freedom of Speech and Protest Dynamics

15:51 Government Responses and Political Pressures

19:56 Anti-Semitism and Its Misconceptions

24:41 Albanese Labor Government & Pro-Palestine voices

31:21 Understanding Radicalization and Law Enforcement

37:26 Far-Right vs. Islamist Extremism

44:17 Knee-Jerk Government Responses

49:17 Rising Knife Violence Among Youth

55:36 The Erosion of Civil Society

59:19 Protests and State Authority

01:03:21 Calls for a Royal Commission

01:07:52 Immigration and Foreign Conflicts

01:13:46 Supporting the Jewish Community in Grief

01:20:13 Distinguishing Between Jewish Identity and Israel

01:26:23 Hope for Peaceful Coexistence

============================================================

Perth Dialogues is a platform to celebrate migrant success in Australia, bringing Australian and migrant communities closer and helping understand Australian issues.

Join and Subscribe to Perth Dialogues on our channels 👇

Website: https://perthdialogues.au/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@perthdialogues

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5xtPxMoU7ley1kiqYUt90x

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/perth-dialogues/id1792572402

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a5bb32f6-862c-43c3-8214-6cea11f035a0/perth-dialogues

Copyrights © All Rights Reserved with Perth Dialogues.

Mark Ratcliff is a Communications Specialist and Educator with a background in systems thinking, content creation, mentoring and teaching. With qualifications in Sustainable Development and International Aid, and broad theoretical and practical experience, he understands the importance of honest and effective communication for any individual growth, organisational change or sustainable venture. Mark provides coaching and training to help migrants understand Australian values and develop the skills and confidence to better communicate, integrate and thrive.Join Mark Ratcliff at https://www.ironbarklearning.com.au/Know about the host, Nirmal Singh, at https://nirmalsingh.au/ 00:00 Introduction to Mark Ratcliff04:40 First Impressions of Australia and Vietnam08:47 Cultural Differences and Long-term Impressions14:17 Teaching Experiences in Vietnam19:15 Reverence for Foreigners in Vietnam24:21 Personal Growth and Challenges in a Foreign Land29:41 Communication Barriers for Migrants34:16 Cultural Understanding and Integration Strategies39:06 Defining Australian Culture and Values45:51 Understanding Australian Culture48:32 The Anzac Spirit and Shared Values52:03 Testing Australian Values in Migration55:28 Education and Integration for Migrants01:00:29 Communication Skills and Talking to Strangers01:17:35 Technology in Learning and Building Capacity01:21:26 Challenges in Supporting Migrants01:24:22 Connecting with Mark Radcliffe

Melissa Molinari is an Inglewood resident in Perth who has become a prominent community spokesperson about safety and social housing issues around the Ninth Avenue and Beaufort Street public housing complexes. She has appeared in radio and TV segments, as well as council processes, to raise issues about crime, antisocial behaviour, and the design and management of nearby social housing.

Know about the host, Nirmal Singh, at https://nirmalsingh.au/

00:00 Introduction to Community Concerns in Inglewood

02:05 The Impact of Social Housing on Inglewood

07:17 Community Experiences of Terror and Crime

11:27 Understanding 100% Social Housing

14:54 Lack of Government Consultation and Support

16:55 The Need for Wraparound Services

23:01 Setting Up for Failure: The Challenges of Social Housing

26:09 Government Accountability and Community Impact

32:22 Navigating Bureaucratic Frustrations

35:27 The Three-Strike Rule and Its Implications

40:05 Mental Health and Social Housing Challenges

47:28 Government Accountability and Community Engagement

53:38 Concerns Over New Social Housing Developments

01:00:13 Impact on Local Businesses and Community Dynamics

===============================================

Perth Dialogues is a platform to celebrate migrant success in Australia, bringing Australian and migrant communities closer and helping understand Australian issues.Join and Subscribe to Perth Dialogues on our channels 👇

Website: https://perthdialogues.au/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@perthdialogues

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5xtPxMoU7ley1kiqYUt90x

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/perth-dialogues/id1792572402

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a5bb32f6-862c-43c3-8214-6cea11f035a0/perth-dialogues

Copyrights © All Rights Reserved with Perth Dialogues.

Alan Dolphin is the Vice President of Free The Hounds and a true champion for the greyhounds of WA. He's a tireless advocate and a key figure at Free the Hounds, a group dedicated to ending greyhound racing and finding loving homes for these gentle giants. It's a mission that's personal, passionate, and, as we'll hear, absolutely necessary.

Join Free The Hounds at https://www.freethehounds.com.au/

Know about the host, Nirmal Singh, at https://nirmalsingh.au/

00:00 Introduction to Free the Hounds

05:34 Government Involvement and Regulation

11:51 Shortcomings in reporting Greyhound injuries

13:33 Real Job Numbers in Greyhound Racing

16:52 The Future of Greyhound Racing in WA

18:22 Petition to the Government

20:56 Tasmania closing Greyhound Racing

24:57 Connection between Racing and Betting

29:45 Real Extent of Racing Injuries

32:33 The Missing Pups From Breeding

35:30 Greyhounds as Pets

44:39 Support Free The Hounds

==============================================

Perth Dialogues is a platform to celebrate migrant success in Australia, bringing Australian and migrant communities closer and helping understand Australian issues.

Join and Subscribe to Perth Dialogues on our channels 👇

Website: https://perthdialogues.au/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@perthdialogues

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5xtPxMoU7ley1kiqYUt90x

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/perth-dialogues/id1792572402

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a5bb32f6-862c-43c3-8214-6cea11f035a0/perth-dialogues

Copyrights © All Rights Reserved with Perth Dialogues.

Adam Barry is a Perth-based property developer and the founder and Managing Director of Develop Capital, a company specialising in value-adding residential projects, including renovations, subdivisions, and medium-scale developments in Western Australia. In 2025, Adam lost 19 Kgs in 6 months and gained a 6-pack abs physique through his holistic and dedicated regime.

Know about the host, Nirmal Singh, at https://nirmalsingh.au/

00:00 Introduction to Adam's Weight Loss Journey

02:41 The Turning Point: Discovering the Health Program

06:25 Understanding the Six Pack City Program

08:23 Overcoming Overwhelm: The Role of Coaching

11:45 Key Habits and Metrics for Success

15:32 Navigating Weight Loss: The Ups and Downs

18:12 Balancing Life and Health Goals

30:16 Meal Habits and Preparation

34:03 Exercise Routines and Morning Motivation

37:43 Peer Influence and Social Support

38:29 Life Changes After Weight Loss

41:01 Surprising Benefits of Fitness

44:35 Maintaining Health and Fitness

47:47 Advice for Making a Change

53:06 Navigating Health Optimization

55:59 Dealing with External Opinions

57:55 Final Thoughts on Health and Enjoyment

============================================================

Perth Dialogues is a platform to celebrate migrant success in Australia, bringing Australian and migrant communities closer and helping understand Australian issues.

Join and Subscribe to Perth Dialogues on our channels 👇

Website: https://perthdialogues.au/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@perthdialogues

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5xtPxMoU7ley1kiqYUt90x

Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a5bb32f6-862c-43c3-8214-6cea11f035a0/perth-dialogues

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/perth-dialogues/id1792572402

Copyrights © All Rights Reserved with Perth Dialogues.

Surya Ambati is a prominent leader and professional based in Perth, WA with over 30 years of experience in railway engineering, operations, and project management. He has held senior roles with major Australian mining and infrastructure projects—including Roy Hill, BHP, Fortescue, and Rio Tinto—and was previously General Manager (Projects) at Balaji Railroad Systems Ltd. in India. Surya has recently nominated for the election of Councillor to the City of Melville's Applecross-Mount Pleasant ward.Know more about Surya Ambati at https://ambati.com.au/Know about the host, NIrmal Singh, at https://nirmalsingh.au/01:50 Introducing Surya Ambati09:37 Local Government Aspirations and Community Needs12:47 Community Feedback and Prioritizing Local Issues23:10 Budget Transparency and Community Involvement31:06 Community Safety and Local Government's Role38:27 Balancing Local Government and Private Rights43:42 Community Engagement in Local Government48:37 Enhancing Public Participation in Policy Development52:42 Compulsory Voting and Voter Engagement58:13 Local Government Funding and State Contributions01:00:03 Rapid Fire Questions============================================================Perth Dialogues is a platform to celebrate migrant success in Australia, bringing Australian and migrant communities closer and helping understand Australian issues.Join and Subscribe to Perth Dialogues on our channels 👇Website: https://perthdialogues.au/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@perthdialoguesSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5xtPxMoU7ley1kiqYUt90xAmazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a5bb32f6-862c-43c3-8214-6cea11f035a0/perth-dialoguesApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/perth-dialogues/id1792572402 Copyrights © All Rights Reserved with Perth Dialogues.