Pearls and Irritations
@johnmenadue.com
Progressive analysis on politics, foreign policy, the economy, media, and culture, with a focus on peace and justice. John Menadue, Publisher & Editor in Chief
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Subscribe for free: https://tinyurl.com/vr2vz4av
The Liberals’ new energy plan recycles climate denial talking points and flat-out falsehoods. It’s not policy – it’s a fossil-fuel fantasy. Voters deserve better than fearmongering and misinformation. #ClimateCrisis #AusPol #EnergyPolicy #PearlsandIrritations #NetZero #ActOnClimate
Senate committee on disinformation should look into the Liberals' energy policy: It is full of it
The Liberal Party’s new energy policy recycles discredited claims and fossil fuel talking points, undermining public trust and delaying the essential task of real action.
johnmenadue.com
November 24, 2025 at 11:16 PM
The Liberals’ new energy plan recycles climate denial talking points and flat-out falsehoods. It’s not policy – it’s a fossil-fuel fantasy. Voters deserve better than fearmongering and misinformation. #ClimateCrisis #AusPol #EnergyPolicy #PearlsandIrritations #NetZero #ActOnClimate
While scientists issued final warnings, the billionaires built bunkers and doubled down on delusion.
It’s time to stop listening to tech bros and start listening to the science elders.
#ClimateEmergency #ActOnClimate #GreedVsPlanet #PearlsandIrritations
It’s time to stop listening to tech bros and start listening to the science elders.
#ClimateEmergency #ActOnClimate #GreedVsPlanet #PearlsandIrritations
The wisdom of the elders, the greed of the rich
As the planet spirals toward environmental collapse, elders like Attenborough, Earle, Hansen and Suzuki have spent decades warning us – and offering hope. But the billionaires in bunkers aren't listening. They are too busy getting rich off our destruction.
johnmenadue.com
November 24, 2025 at 11:01 PM
While scientists issued final warnings, the billionaires built bunkers and doubled down on delusion.
It’s time to stop listening to tech bros and start listening to the science elders.
#ClimateEmergency #ActOnClimate #GreedVsPlanet #PearlsandIrritations
It’s time to stop listening to tech bros and start listening to the science elders.
#ClimateEmergency #ActOnClimate #GreedVsPlanet #PearlsandIrritations
Australia’s longest and deadliest conflict is no longer deniable. The Australian Wars gathers generations of research and testimony into one defining volume — and makes clear that the truth is here. Time to reckon with it. #FrontierWars #TruthTelling #TheAustralianWars #PearlsandIrritations
Massacres, memory and the Memorial: facing our most deadly war
The evidence is overwhelming – Australia’s Frontier Wars were real, deadly, and long, and a landmark new book lays it out in full. So when will the Australian War Memorial fully face the truth?
johnmenadue.com
November 24, 2025 at 10:46 PM
Australia’s longest and deadliest conflict is no longer deniable. The Australian Wars gathers generations of research and testimony into one defining volume — and makes clear that the truth is here. Time to reckon with it. #FrontierWars #TruthTelling #TheAustralianWars #PearlsandIrritations
Generative AI is already changing journalism. From biased data to unverifiable outputs, the risks are real. Without transparency and oversight, truth itself is under threat. #AIandJournalism #MediaEthics #Democracy #PearlsandIrritations
AI in journalism and democracy: can we rely on it?
GenAI tools are reshaping the information environment in ways most audiences never see. From the data that trains them to the labour that maintains them, their inner workings raise urgent questions for journalism and democratic accountability.
johnmenadue.com
November 24, 2025 at 10:31 PM
Generative AI is already changing journalism. From biased data to unverifiable outputs, the risks are real. Without transparency and oversight, truth itself is under threat. #AIandJournalism #MediaEthics #Democracy #PearlsandIrritations
Instead of looking to recruit from afar, providers and policymakers need to shift their focus to opportunities for increasing the capacity and quality of the workforce that are right in front of them. #auspol #agedcare
Where will the aged care workforce come from?
CEDA’s report on how to fix the aged care worker shortage claims migration is key – but a closer look at the data reveals a very different picture. Before we reach for new visa schemes, we need to focus on the workers already here: most are permanent residents or citizens, and many want more hours. The answers are hiding in plain sight.
johnmenadue.com
November 24, 2025 at 10:00 PM
No referendum? No problem.
Mark Dreyfus points to bold federal action within constitutional limits as a true Labor tradition, from banks to climate and housing.
#AusPol #ConstitutionalReform #PearlsandIrritations
Mark Dreyfus points to bold federal action within constitutional limits as a true Labor tradition, from banks to climate and housing.
#AusPol #ConstitutionalReform #PearlsandIrritations
Axed AG tells how Labor really changes the Constitution
Despite Labor’s longstanding appetite for constitutional reform, former Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus now points to a different path: bold, nation-shaping change without the need for a referendum.
johnmenadue.com
November 24, 2025 at 9:45 PM
No referendum? No problem.
Mark Dreyfus points to bold federal action within constitutional limits as a true Labor tradition, from banks to climate and housing.
#AusPol #ConstitutionalReform #PearlsandIrritations
Mark Dreyfus points to bold federal action within constitutional limits as a true Labor tradition, from banks to climate and housing.
#AusPol #ConstitutionalReform #PearlsandIrritations
The Liberals have dumped net zero. The leader is unclear, the policy is vague, and the public isn’t buying it.
If this is the alternative government, what exactly is the plan?
#auspol #NetZero #ClimatePolicy #LiberalParty
If this is the alternative government, what exactly is the plan?
#auspol #NetZero #ClimatePolicy #LiberalParty
Will there be Liberals around to take power in 2034?
The Liberal Party’s rejection of net-zero and its lack of compelling leadership or clear policy vision has left it floundering with key voter groups. Without a coherent plan to make a difference, it risks a long spell in opposition.
johnmenadue.com
November 24, 2025 at 9:30 PM
The Liberals have dumped net zero. The leader is unclear, the policy is vague, and the public isn’t buying it.
If this is the alternative government, what exactly is the plan?
#auspol #NetZero #ClimatePolicy #LiberalParty
If this is the alternative government, what exactly is the plan?
#auspol #NetZero #ClimatePolicy #LiberalParty
Intimidation, harassment and standover tactics were widespread at the 2025 election, say polling day volunteers. The “democracy sausage vibe” is under threat. #AusVotes #AustralianPolitics #Democracy #ElectoralReform
Losing the democracy sausage vibe
The last federal election saw a sharp rise in harassment and aggression at polling places, according to submissions from around the country. From death threats to deception, the once-peaceful ritual of casting a vote is under threat – and Australia needs to act.
johnmenadue.com
November 24, 2025 at 9:15 PM
Intimidation, harassment and standover tactics were widespread at the 2025 election, say polling day volunteers. The “democracy sausage vibe” is under threat. #AusVotes #AustralianPolitics #Democracy #ElectoralReform
As both major parties fumble their messaging on migration, misinformation fills the gap. Without a credible long-term plan, policy confusion will only deepen. #AusPol #MigrationPolicy #LeadershipVoid #PearlsandIrritations
Our politicians continue to fail us on immigration policy
As One Nation rises by recycling anti-immigration rhetoric, both major parties are fumbling their response – missing the chance to offer a clear, credible and principled long-term plan.
johnmenadue.com
November 24, 2025 at 9:00 PM
As both major parties fumble their messaging on migration, misinformation fills the gap. Without a credible long-term plan, policy confusion will only deepen. #AusPol #MigrationPolicy #LeadershipVoid #PearlsandIrritations
Australia talks a big game on innovation – but keeps cutting the institutions that make it possible. Why we need to reverse course, fast. 🧪📉 #SciencePolicy #CSIRO #HigherEd #PublicSchools #AustralianPolitics #STEM #Innovation #EducationFunding #Auspol
Innovation talk, austerity walk: Australia’s failing science policy
Despite constant rhetoric about innovation, Australia is steadily dismantling its scientific capacity. Public schools, universities and the CSIRO are all under pressure – the result of decades of market-driven policy-making that prioritises short-term cost-cutting over long-term national capability.
johnmenadue.com
November 23, 2025 at 11:16 PM
Australia talks a big game on innovation – but keeps cutting the institutions that make it possible. Why we need to reverse course, fast. 🧪📉 #SciencePolicy #CSIRO #HigherEd #PublicSchools #AustralianPolitics #STEM #Innovation #EducationFunding #Auspol
As global governance fragments, middle powers like South Korea face a choice: align early with emerging systems, or risk exclusion. Should Seoul move now? 🇰🇷🌏 #SouthKorea #GlobalGovernance #MiddlePowers #Geopolitics #InternationalRelations #BRICS #AsiaDiplomacy #ForeignPolicy
Middle power moves: South Korea and the future of global governance
Is South Korea eyeing a new global order? A quiet debate is emerging over Seoul's potential alignment with a rising alternative to Western governance.
johnmenadue.com
November 23, 2025 at 11:01 PM
As global governance fragments, middle powers like South Korea face a choice: align early with emerging systems, or risk exclusion. Should Seoul move now? 🇰🇷🌏 #SouthKorea #GlobalGovernance #MiddlePowers #Geopolitics #InternationalRelations #BRICS #AsiaDiplomacy #ForeignPolicy
Australian universities built strong research ties with China – until fear took over. How did we go from curiosity to suspicion?
#HigherEd #China #AcademicFreedom #Auspol
#HigherEd #China #AcademicFreedom #Auspol
The China shift: Australia's universities in an age of suspicion
Over four decades, Australian universities developed strong teaching and research ties with China. But a wave of fear-driven policies and rising national security pressures has reshaped those relationships. Are we witnessing a retreat from engagement – or the start of a new era?
johnmenadue.com
November 23, 2025 at 10:46 PM
Australian universities built strong research ties with China – until fear took over. How did we go from curiosity to suspicion?
#HigherEd #China #AcademicFreedom #Auspol
#HigherEd #China #AcademicFreedom #Auspol
Net zero isn’t just a climate goal – it’s a psychological anchor in a world gripped by instability and fear. Adrian Rosenfeldt explores the cultural anxiety beneath the carbon math. #ClimateAnxiety #NetZero #CarbonPolitics #EnvironmentalPhilosophy #PearlsandIrritations
Net Zero and the metaphysics of anxiety in Australia
Net zero is not simply an environmental target. It has become a psychological and cultural anchor in a society that feels increasingly unstable.
johnmenadue.com
November 23, 2025 at 10:31 PM
Net zero isn’t just a climate goal – it’s a psychological anchor in a world gripped by instability and fear. Adrian Rosenfeldt explores the cultural anxiety beneath the carbon math. #ClimateAnxiety #NetZero #CarbonPolitics #EnvironmentalPhilosophy #PearlsandIrritations
💧 Australia has 1.76 million farm dams. Most are polluting, inefficient, and harming biodiversity. A simple fix could cut emissions and boost productivity – without upfront cost to farmers. Let’s not waste the opportunity. #auspol #biodiversity
David Lindenmayer, Bruce Chapman and John Mitchell: A rare win-win for climate, farming and biodiversity – if policymakers act
Restoring Australia's farm dams could slash emissions, improve water quality, boost livestock productivity, and enhance biodiversity – all at low cost.
johnmenadue.com
November 23, 2025 at 10:15 PM
💧 Australia has 1.76 million farm dams. Most are polluting, inefficient, and harming biodiversity. A simple fix could cut emissions and boost productivity – without upfront cost to farmers. Let’s not waste the opportunity. #auspol #biodiversity
Marco Rubio says the US is deeply concerned about atrocities in Sudan. But where was that concern for Gaza? #Sudan #Gaza #MarcoRubio #USforeignpolicy #HumanRights #RSF #PPI
US foreign policy and Sudan: hypocrisy, incoherence and self-interest
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent remarks on Sudan appear empathetic – but they may reveal more about strategic positioning than genuine concern.
johnmenadue.com
November 23, 2025 at 9:45 PM
Marco Rubio says the US is deeply concerned about atrocities in Sudan. But where was that concern for Gaza? #Sudan #Gaza #MarcoRubio #USforeignpolicy #HumanRights #RSF #PPI
🌍 As COP30 wraps up, it’s worth stepping back: what do we really know about Earth’s changing climate, what’s causing it – and what happens next? A clear, science-grounded explainer from leading researchers 👇 #ClimateCrisis #COP30 #GlobalWarming #ClimateAction #ScienceExplained #PearlsAndIrritations
What science tells us about Earth’s changing climate
As leaders leave Brazil and the 2025 UN climate summit draws to a close, it's worth reflecting on what science says about Earth’s climate – what’s changing, why it’s happening, and where we’re heading next.
johnmenadue.com
November 23, 2025 at 9:30 PM
🌍 As COP30 wraps up, it’s worth stepping back: what do we really know about Earth’s changing climate, what’s causing it – and what happens next? A clear, science-grounded explainer from leading researchers 👇 #ClimateCrisis #COP30 #GlobalWarming #ClimateAction #ScienceExplained #PearlsAndIrritations
Pearls and Irritations is reaching more people than ever – with record readership, new voices, and fresh formats like our podcast. But we need your help to keep going. Please donate if you can. #auspol #PearlsandIrritations
Message from the Editor
First of all my thanks to those who've already made a donation to our end of year fundraiser. As many of you know we are absolutely independent and fund operations purely through the generosity of the Pearls and Irritations community.
johnmenadue.com
November 23, 2025 at 9:15 PM
Pearls and Irritations is reaching more people than ever – with record readership, new voices, and fresh formats like our podcast. But we need your help to keep going. Please donate if you can. #auspol #PearlsandIrritations
🎻 From the Flying Pieman to QR-code crooners – Sydney’s buskers are part of our cultural DNA. So why is the City making it harder for them to play on? Tony Smith makes the case for letting them be. #Busking #SydneyLife #StreetPerformers #UrbanCulture #PearlsandIrritations
Pitch perfect: the case for backing busking
The City of Sydney is restricting busking on some streets, but in doing so it's losing the vibrancy that comes from a community of street entertainers.
johnmenadue.com
November 22, 2025 at 10:00 PM
🎻 From the Flying Pieman to QR-code crooners – Sydney’s buskers are part of our cultural DNA. So why is the City making it harder for them to play on? Tony Smith makes the case for letting them be. #Busking #SydneyLife #StreetPerformers #UrbanCulture #PearlsandIrritations
Henry Reynolds’ latest book argues that understanding Australia from the “top down” — starting with the North — reveals a deeper, often ignored history of violence, race relations and cultural complexity. #AustralianHistory #TruthTelling #HenryReynolds #NorthQueensland #FirstNations #BookReview
Henry Reynolds’ bold, new book takes a top-end view of Australian history
First Nations people please be advised this article speaks of racially discriminating moments in history, including the distress and death of First Nations people.
johnmenadue.com
November 22, 2025 at 9:45 PM
Henry Reynolds’ latest book argues that understanding Australia from the “top down” — starting with the North — reveals a deeper, often ignored history of violence, race relations and cultural complexity. #AustralianHistory #TruthTelling #HenryReynolds #NorthQueensland #FirstNations #BookReview
Hosting a climate summit should serve the global good. Australia’s failed COP31 bid highlights the troubling shift towards boosting fossil fuel and economic self-interest, over climate action. #COP31 #ClimateAction #FossilFuels #UNFCCC #ClimateCrisis #Australia #NetZero
No COP for Australia. No tears from me
Hosting a UN climate summit should be about global cooperation on combating climate change. Australia’s bid for COP31 reveals how far COP has drifted.
johnmenadue.com
November 22, 2025 at 9:30 PM
Hosting a climate summit should serve the global good. Australia’s failed COP31 bid highlights the troubling shift towards boosting fossil fuel and economic self-interest, over climate action. #COP31 #ClimateAction #FossilFuels #UNFCCC #ClimateCrisis #Australia #NetZero
Before Gough Whitlam died, Malcolm Fraser presented Gough with his book ‘Dangerous Allies’. He had inscribed in the book – “Dear Gough, with great respect and affection, Malcolm.” My eyes misted over. JM #auspol #whitlam #Fraser
Working with PM Fraser - parting words - Part 5 - Malcolm Fraser
John Menadue stayed on as the most senior public servant in the land, after the trauma of the Dismissal. In this five-part series he details what life was like working with PM Fraser. Given his closeness to Whitlam, some of his conclusions are surprising.
johnmenadue.com
November 22, 2025 at 9:15 PM
The Security Council's backing of the Trump plan for Gaza ignores international law, punishes the Palestinians, and rewards those responsible for genocide. #auspol #israelpalestineconflict #gazagenocide #UnitedNations
The UN embraces colonialism: the Security Council and the US Gaza plan
The Security Council's backing of the Trump plan for Gaza ignores international law, punishes the Palestinians, and rewards those responsible for genocide.
johnmenadue.com
November 22, 2025 at 9:00 PM
The Security Council's backing of the Trump plan for Gaza ignores international law, punishes the Palestinians, and rewards those responsible for genocide. #auspol #israelpalestineconflict #gazagenocide #UnitedNations
If Australia is to remain a confident, modern democracy, then the executive must be accountable to the people, not to the Crown, nor to Cabinet secrecy. If Australia is to flourish, we cannot remain bound to a system built on inherited habits rather than choices made. #auspol #republic #democracy
Only a republic can reverse executive power creep
A democratic republic would end the structural uncertainties that allowed both the Whitlam dismissal and Scott Morrison's many ministries, as well as bringing the Australian people into a new constitutional relationship.
johnmenadue.com
November 21, 2025 at 11:16 PM
If Australia is to remain a confident, modern democracy, then the executive must be accountable to the people, not to the Crown, nor to Cabinet secrecy. If Australia is to flourish, we cannot remain bound to a system built on inherited habits rather than choices made. #auspol #republic #democracy
Despite repeated warnings from history, experts, from field workers and from the Sudanese themselves, those with the power to act across the international system have failed to prevent the loss of hundreds of thousands of lives. #auspol #sudan
The war on Sudan: the choice is ours
International mechanisms and the international community have failed Sudan and the Sudanese people. The tragedy unfolding today was predictable, but not unavoidable.
johnmenadue.com
November 21, 2025 at 11:01 PM
The BBC’s leadership may have resigned – but not for the reasons that matter. The real scandal is how public broadcasters are pressured to toe the line. #MediaBias #PublicBroadcasting #Palestine #FreePress #BBC #ABC
BBC and ABC targeted by conservative critics for the wrong reasons
Right-wing critics attack the ABC and BBC, but the real media bias is in ignoring Palestinian voices and defending power.
johnmenadue.com
November 21, 2025 at 10:46 PM
The BBC’s leadership may have resigned – but not for the reasons that matter. The real scandal is how public broadcasters are pressured to toe the line. #MediaBias #PublicBroadcasting #Palestine #FreePress #BBC #ABC