Why is Albanese ruling out a republic referendum?

Why is Albanese ruling out a republic referendum?

Author: ABC Australia February 24, 2026 Duration: 25:00
Politics Now
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Anthony Albanese has voluntarily written to UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer to offer support for removing Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor from the line of royal succession. Australia is the first Commonwealth country to back the proposal, but Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has made it clear his government doesn't have any plans to hold a referendum on becoming a republic, instead announcing this morning that high speed rail from Newcastle to Sydney could be "shovel ready" in two-years time. So, is this long promised train any closer to becoming a reality? And the landmark Royal Commission into Anti-Semitism and Social Cohesion has officially begun, with Commissioner Virginia Bell outlining the scope of the inquiry. Patricia Karvelas and Claudia Long break it all down on Politics Now. Got a burning question? Got a burning political query? Send a short voice recording to PK and Fran for Question Time at thepartyroom@abc.net.au Read Claudia's exclusive here: https://www.abc.net.au/news/2026-02-23/working-with-children-check-parents-sick/106370632 

Keeping up with the political landscape requires more than just reading headlines; it demands understanding the motivations and maneuvers that shape them. That’s the space occupied by Politics Now, the ABC News production hosted by Patricia Karvelas. This podcast goes beyond the initial news alerts to unpack the significant stories from Australia and across the globe, offering a balanced perspective on the strategies driving the day’s events. Each week from Monday to Wednesday, Karvelas is joined by a rotating panel of the ABC’s own seasoned political journalists, dissecting the latest developments with insight and context. The conversation continues on Thursdays with 'The Party Room,' providing further depth. The aim is to deliver reliable, timely analysis whenever major news breaks, placing trusted coverage directly in your feed. For anyone looking to comprehend the real forces behind the news cycle, this podcast serves as an essential, clarifying resource.
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