Earlier this week, the U.S. government shut down after Congress failed to pass funding legislation. It's the 21st shutdown since 1977, and it has triggered the indefinite pause of most federal services, putting tens of thousands of federal employees out of work.

Today we're breaking down what a shutdown actually means, how an entire government just stops, and why this one might be different from past shutdowns.

Hosts: Sam Koslowski and Billi FitzSimons
Producer: Orla Maher

Want to support The Daily Aus? That's so kind! The best way to do that is to click ‘follow’ on Spotify or Apple and to leave us a five-star review. We would be so grateful.

The Daily Aus is a media company focused on delivering accessible and digestible news to young people. We are completely independent.

Want more from TDA?
Subscribe to The Daily Aus newsletter
Subscribe to The Daily Aus’ YouTube Channel

Have feedback for us?
We’re always looking for new ways to improve what we do. If you’ve got feedback, we’re all ears. Tell us here.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.