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Articles by Raf Epstein
Program: Greens say banning phrases sets a 'dangerous precendent'
The leader of the Victorian Greens says banning phrases sets a "dangerous precedent" and has accused her political opponents of acting like a "totalitarian government". The Victorian Coalition will ban the phrase "globalise the intifada" if elected next month, saying it incites violence and makes Melbourne's Jewish community feel unsafe. On ABC Melbourne radio, Greens leader Ellen Sandell said the meaning of the phrase was contested, and it should not be banned.
Program: Victoria: Messiahs and naughty boys
Victoria's political leaders are fessing up to drug taking and not paying for petrol. The major parties aren't banning abortion, but instead competing to make abortion free. Politics has changed. The tectonic plates of politics are shifting beneath our feet. Within weeks, Victorians will start voting in the November state election. So, what does all of this tell us about the future of politics in Australia? Raf Epstein and Patricia Karvelas break it all down on Politics Now: Victoria.
Program: Fast Food is dividing local towns
When a major fast food establishment plans to build a new site in the community, the responses can vary widely. The Bass Coast Shire Council have knocked back a McDonalds in Cowes, but that sentiment isn't echoed in Castlemaine. Wayne Taylor is currently undertaking a petition to allow the Fast Food giant into his town, but does everyone agree?
Program: Premier calls out One Nation after attack on Helen Haines
The Premier of Victoria says One Nation and a "rhetoric all about despair" in politics have contributed to a dangerous political climate. Helen Haines was critically injured on Monday afternoon in a targeted attack, when she was struck by a vehicle outside her electorate office in Wangaratta. A 43-year-old man is in police custody. Speaking to Raf Epstein on 774 ABC Melbourne, Premier Ben Carroll said misogyny also contributed to the attack.
Program: Greens accuse Labor of politicising abortion with new policy
The leader of the Victorian Greens has accused Labor of politicising abortion ahead of the November state election. On Thursday, Labor announced plans to provide free abortion care if re-elected. Speaking with Raf Epstein on 774 ABC Melbourne, Greens leader Ellen Sandell said Labor could have already made abortion free during its almost 12 years in government. In a wide-ranging interview, Sandell also discussed the Greens’ policy platform ahead of the election.
Program: One Nation deputy leader denies AI-generated ad is racist
The deputy leader of One Nation Victoria says the party's AI-generated video depicting a Middle Eastern man as a suicide bomber is not racist. The video - played at the party's campaign launch for the November state election - also depicted a young man of African descent holding a machete. Speaking on ABC Melbourne radio, Colleen Harkin told Raf Epstein the video was not racist.
Program: Changing Tracks 2026: Felicity
We had similar, but different roles. Jill was admin, I was marketing. We only worked together for a little over a year, we quickly joined a bond, being similar ages. I liked her fiery Irishness and she was so immaculate. We had a few social catch-ups, even a St Patrick's Day celebration in a boat on the Yarra. Our late 20's, early 30's we were both fun and energetic - living life! What started as an innocent Friday night after work turned into a tragic loss of life.
Program: Why Anna Williams doesn't want organ donation to be anonymous
For Anna Williams, her teenage daughter lives on through other people. Anna's daughter Zoe Jean died suddenly when she was just 18 years old. But through organ donation, she was able to save the lives of four other people. "It's sort of special in a way because you just think, her heart's still beating and she's keeping other people alive," Anna told 774 ABC Melbourne. Anna wants to meet the people who received her daughter's organs, but current laws don't allow it.
Program: Does Labor have the ‘midterm blues’?
PK is back from her break! And she's returned armed with some big thoughts about how political "argy bargy" around the OpenAI Medicare data breach. The Coalition is pushing back on consequences for OpenAI over the breach, while the Greens have called for OpenAI CEO Sam Altman to appear before a Senate inquiry over the matter. It comes as Finance Minister Katy Gallagher flags legislation on AI guardrails could be introduced to parliament before the end of the year.
Program: What's it like to vote on the Norm Smith medal?
What's it like being a voter for the Norm Smith medal? The voting process has come under scrutiny since Saturday's heart-stopping grand final, when Fremantle's Shai Bolton became the first player to win the medal in a losing side since 2005. On 774 ABC Melbourne, Herald Sun journalist and Norm Smith judge Lauren Wood shared her insights into the voting process.
Program: Is the Coalition joining the super wars?
Liberal frontbencher Andrew Bragg has reignited the super wars, with a pitch he says is about generating a "sophisticated debate" over the policy. As Clare tells Raf, internal divisions remain in the Coalition over superannuation, with some concerned about slaying the "sacred cow" that is superannuation. But Raf thinks this might just be the Opposition "blowing off the cobwebs on the policymaking machine" and starting to rebuild their policy ammunition for the election battle ahead.
Program: Changing Tracks 2026: Pam
Though this story has a sad ending, it is the one joyous day, that I choose to remember and will cherish always. At 33, my beautiful niece Emma was diagnosed with a very rare cancer. She fought this battle gallantly for 5 months - but now knew and accepted that her life would shortly end. From her hospital bed, watching the sun rise over Melbourne with her partner, life goals were discussed. They wanted to get married. And so the race began! Emma's partner hit the ground running.
Program: Changing Tracks 2026: Paul
Almost four years ago, on 30 August 2022, my lovely wife dropped off a car full of kids, and then quickly ducked into the supermarket. I got to my car and texted ahead to see if I had to bring anything home for dinner. About 20 minutes later, I received a reply: "Hi Paul, this is Connor from Burwood Coles on your wife's phone. Mary has collapsed and is receiving first aid. Can you please call?" Connor had cleverly figured out how to reply to text messages despite the lock screen.
Program: Jess Wilson talks bins, tolls, AFL and One Nation
Victorian Opposition leader Jess Wilson says the Coalition can win Victoria's November election without support or a preference deal from One Nation. On 774 ABC Melbourne radio, Wilson also discussed her party's policies on bins, toll roads and the use of facial recognition software. Press play above to hear the full interview on 774 ABC Melbourne Mornings
Program: Does being tough on crime stop young offenders?
A new report tabled in state Parliament suggests jail time for young criminals does not improve community safety or help rehabilitate offenders. The report from Victoria's Commissioner for Children and Young People shows that around 1% of alleged offenders are children, and most re-offend after contact with the criminal justice system.
Program: Vic Greens push to pause building new data centres
The Victorian government should push back against "AI tech billionaire bros" building new data centres in Victoria, according to Victorian Greens leader Ellen Sandell. The Greens introduced legislation to Parliament on Tuesday calling for an immediate moratorium on new data centres. On 774 ABC Melbourne, Sandell said Victoria was not benefiting enough from the development of the new facilities. Pres play above to hear the full interview on 774 ABC Melbourne Mornings Inside a data centre.
Deliberately misleading 'Free Palestine' party name approved for Victorian election
Mikaela Ortolan and Raf Epstein The Victorian Electoral Commissioner has urged voters to do their research before casting their ballot, after a party with a deliberately misleading name was successfully registered ahead of the November election. This week a group wanting to register a political party called the "Free Palestine Party" was knocked back because a pro-Israel activist had already registered a party called "Free Palestine".
Program: Changing Tracks 2026: Kate
When my daughter was six months old, I left her father. I was too sensitive, too emotional, too difficult, too crazy. The most dominating voice inside my mind had stopped being my own, whilst a quieter voice proffered evidence and whispered "trust yourself". On long stroller walks I read daily about the #MeToo movement, my options became starker. If I stayed, my daughter's greatest teacher about relationships would not be what I told her; it would be what she witnessed.
Program: Police presence increases in Sunshine after tragic death
A Sunshine business owner says he has little faith conditions will improve after a series of serious crimes in the area. Sixty-year-old grocery shop owner Van Viet Truong died on Thursday from injuries he suffered in an alleged group bashing. Speaking on 774 ABC Melbourne, Sunshine Business Association president Vu Du told Raf Epstein he was "devastated" and frustrated by the ongoing situation.
Program: Premier Ben Carroll joins Raf Epstein in the studio
Victoria's newly appointed Premier has denied involvement in the ousting of his predecessor Jacinta Allan. Ben Carroll joined Raf Epstein on 774 ABC Melbourne radio on Wednesday morning for his first live radio interview since becoming Premier. Carroll told Raf he was "content" as Deputy Premier and Education Minister, but was urged by his colleagues to put his hand up for the state's top job. Press play above to hear the full interview on 774 ABC Melbourne Mornings
Program: Are 'smart glasses' just a new tool for creeps?
Glasses that can film people without their consent have sold out at a major Australian retailer, sparking concerns about privacy. Kmart were selling "Camera Glasses" for $89, promising the ability to "capture photos and videos hands-free". The glasses are similar to the more expensive Meta Ray-Bans, which sell for $337. The technology has been called "pervert glasses" due to their use filming young women in public without their knowledge.
Program: Coalition releases its terms for a Royal Commission
Victoria's Shadow Attorney-General has defended his party's decision to release a list of witnesses they would call to give evidence at a Royal Commission into the state's Big Build. The list includes former Premiers Daniel Andrews and Jacinta Allan, underworld figure Mick Gatto, political staffers, and many more. Speaking on 774 ABC Melbourne, James Newbury defended the unorthodox decision, and said it would not compromise the independence of a Royal Commission.
Program: Changing Tracks 2026: Peter
The Kimberley is a tough and unforgiving place. Hot and harsh, dry and desolate and as beautiful as it is ancient. Everything in the Kimberley must be tough just to survive. From the spinifex mounds to the twisted scrubby trees, the red rock escarpments to the vast sandy deserts – anything that lives here has to be a special breed of hardy, cunning and resilient. The most common saying I heard? 'Expect the Unexpected.' And nothing is as tough and unpredictable as a Kimberley camp dog.
Program: Expert says Jacinta Allan and Dan Andrews will face royal commission
A former anti-corruption commissioner says former Premiers Jacinta Allan and Daniel Andrews will "undoubtedly" be called to give evidence at a Royal Commission into Victoria's construction industry. On his first day in the role, newly appointed Premier Ben Carroll announced a Royal Commission to investigate alleged corruption in the construction sector - a move staunchly resisted by his predecessor.
Program: New approach to catching hoons
Victoria Police are using drones to tackle hoon behaviour on the Mornington Peninsula. Speaking with Raf Epstein, Inspector Ivan Petrunic, Mornington Peninsula Local Area Commander, said police were targeting e-bikes and e-scooters following resident concerns. "The drones are a much safer way to us to monitor dangerous hoon behaviours, " he said.
Program: Changing Tracks 2026: Ceecee
This year, I plan to retire. I've spent nearly 30 years working as an Ambulance Paramedic. There'll be a lot that I'll miss. The camaraderie, the work, the people and the incredible privilege of occasionally being able to make what could be one of the worst days of a person's life just that little bit easier. I have attended several murders, multiple suicides, countless deaths. I have attended horrific trauma and assaults, I have been abused, threatened, chased, spat on, and hit.
Program: Premier Jacinta Allan talks AI, big tech and corruption
The Victorian Premier is promising to take on social media companies and rein in the use of AI - but is she doing enough to tackle corruption? Jacinta Allan joined Raf Epstein in the studio on 774 ABC Melbourne. Press play above to hear the full interview on 774 ABC Melbourne Mornings
Program: Changing Tracks 2026: Jan
The year was 1974 and I was in England. I'd wanted to be there since The Beatles in the 1960s, and my schoolgirl crush on them fueled my desire to go. I saw myself wearing groovy mini-skirts, having my hair cut by Vidal Sassoon and shopping in Carnaby Street. As a young journalist, I'd wanted to land a job on a London daily. Eventually I found myself at Reading, assigned to work on the Wokingham Times in Berkshire. Everyone welcomed me. The other journalists were young and keen to embrace someone new.
Program: Neighbour speaks after suspicious fire
Another arson attack in Melbourne. But what happens when it's next door to your business? There was a suspicious fire on Mickleham Rd in Tullamarine after a car crashed into a building overnight. Arthur Titus is the owner of Pockets Bars in Tullamarine, which is next door. He told Raf Epstein he was surprised it happened in that area. "To be so close to this is so damaging for our business. We have a kids rave coming up, do you think they will want to come out after this," he said.
Program: Is uncertainty the new normal?
US President Donald Trump has vowed to impose a toll on traffic passing through the Strait of Hormuz, as it conducts another round of strikes on Iran. The Albanese Government is urging restraint and pointing to Australia's secure fuel supply — but is this the "new normal"? And four women and girls were killed in four days in separate incidents last week, PK and Raf reflect on frustrations around the media coverage of violence against women and the focus from governments to combat the issue.
Program: AFL great John Barnes 'worse than angry' about arson attack
AFL great John Barnes says he's "worse than angry" after the latest arson attack in his neighbourhood. The Essendon premiership player told 774 ABC Melbourne he lives just "200 metres" from a cafe in Essendon that was firebombed on Monday morning. Barnes, who is also a Moonee Valley City Councillor, told Raf Epstein he fears for the safety of his family and the wider community. Press play above to hear the full interview on 774 ABC Melbourne Police tape seen at Essendon North cafe.
Program: Changing Tracks 2026: Rosalind
It was 2017 and my husband and I were coming back from visiting relatives when I had my first panic attack. I was completely afraid and we hurriedly visited the nearest doctor as I thought I was having a heart attack. My blood pressure was really high and I was prescribed tablets. I followed up with my regular doctor but it was the start of a downward spiral for me. I became afraid of going anywhere and having to be social.
Program: What Albanese can learn from Starmer's fall
The Albanese Government has secured the support of the Greens to pass its capital gains tax and negative gearing changes, but not without some concessions. While it's welcome news for Labor, will the extended NDIS inquiry present a "political headache" in the months ahead? Meanwhile, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced his resignation. So, what lessons are there for the Albanese government here at home? Patricia Karvelas and Raf Epstein break it all down on Politics Now.
Program: Changing Tracks 2026: Lynda
I was born in 1950, so as I grew up my musical tastes were very much centred on 60s and 70s music, mainly soul, and rhythm and blues, but top of the list for me was always the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. I can still recall driving my young niece and her friend home from a visit to the zoo in about 1995, and we popped the Aretha cassette in the car player. The three of us sang back-up vocals to all the tracks on the drive home.
Program: Raf Epstein opens up about what culture means to him following Pauline Hanson's National Press Club speech
One Nation leader Pauline Hanson spoke a lot about multiculturalism and monoculture during her address to the National Press Club yesterday. This prompted 774 ABC Radio Melbourne host Raf Epstein to open up about culture and what it means to him being Jewish Australian. He also asked listeners to define what their culture is. "Pauline is speaking about who we are and what we want to be. She is tapping into something deep.
Program: VicRoads CEO says website fixed despite 'intermittent issues'
The head of VicRoads insists the website is fully up and running. It follows a major system upgrade more than a week ago that impacted the registration and licensing parts of the website. VicRoads CEO Giles Thompson told Raf Epstein all the issues from last week have been resolved.
Program: Changing Tracks 2026: Jane
In May of 2002 at the age of 24, I moved from Sydney to London with my first proper boyfriend. We found jobs and a tiny basement flat that cost a fortune — it was dark and dingy and smelled like mould, but it was ours. Then after a couple of local moves and a few horrible winters which turned into stunning summers, I eventually started to feel at home in this tough city. Fast forward four years, to May 2006, and the relationship ended, not nicely.
Program: CEO of Cancer Council Victoria pays tribute to mate Richard Scolyer
CEO of Cancer Council Victoria Todd Harper has paid tribute to his childhood friend Professor Richard Scolyer calling him a "remarkable person". The 2024 Australian of the Year died aged 59 after a battle with an aggressive form of brain cancer. Todd and Richard grew up in Tasmania together. "What you saw through his groundbreaking work was really what he was like in real life. He was the most intelligent person in the room, " Todd told Raf Epstein on 774 ABC Melbourne Radio.
Victoria Police chief Mike Bush says firebombings will stop when police work their way to 'top of the tree'
Victoria's police chief says investigators are working to reassure witnesses facing "violence and intimidation" from criminals in the construction sector, with police still yet to lay any charges related to corruption on taxpayer-funded Big Build sites.
Program: Government responds to caller's heartbreaking story
Melbourne based MP Julian Hill says Labor's changes to Centrelink and job seekers services will help a desperate talkback caller. On 774 ABC Radio Melbourne "John" from Ringwood told Raf Epstein he hasn't eaten in three days and his job provider were failing to help, offering him only prayers. Mr Hill told Raf people like John are why Labor is changing the system.
Program: Need To Know with Nick McKenzie
Each week on Mornings, Raf Epstein does a Need to Know segment. It features a guest that will tell you what you need to know. This week, Nick McKenzie, an investigative reporter at The Age and 60 Minutes was the guest. Raf spoke to Nick about what is actually going on with building sites around Melbourne. And if he feared for his life following his reports on the industry.
Change My Mind: The Suburban Rail Loop - ABC listen
It's the biggest infrastructure project in Melbourne, and the most divisive. Have you made your mind up? And could you change it? ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings brings you Change My Mind: The Suburban Rail Loop. Watch as Mornings presenter Raf Epstein interviews Suburban Rail Loop Minister Harriet Shing and Shadow Transport Minister Matthew Guy on the SRL.
The most common question readers ask Andy Griffiths
The most common question Andy Griffiths gets asked is: can you put me in your next book? So the celebrated children's author has done just that. Press play to hear the full interview with Raf Epstein on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings about his new book You & Me and the Peanut Butter Beast.
Review urged over blacklisted childcare worker
A major childcare operator says working with children checks need to be reviewed, after a blacklisted worker was allowed to keep working with kids. Goodstart Early Learning CEO Dr Ros Baxter told Raf Epstein workers can be fired for inappropriate behaviour at one centre, yet get a job at a new centre without anyone knowing there might be an issue. Press play to hear the full interview on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings.
'Heartbreaking and lifesaving': how the PBS has changed lives across Melbourne
Is your prescription medicine on the PBS? How much does it cost you? For many the scheme is lifesaving, but for some 774 listeners it has let them down. Raf Epstein spoke to Leah from Geelong, who requires an $800,000 drug for her rare neurological condition, while Ed from Bayswater lost his wife to cancer at just 39 because her treatment was not PBS-listed. Press play to hear these stories on ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings.
Have we lost the art of hard conversations?
When was the last time you had a really great conversation with someone you disagreed with? Professor Ian Williams from the University of Toronto examines why we've lost the art of hard conversations, at a time that we're more connected than ever. Press play to hear the full interview with Raf Epstein on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings.
Premier Jacinta Allan says working from home 'at risk'
The Victorian Premier says working from home is a right that needs to be protected by law. Jacinta Allan told Raf Epstein the right is at risk, and all Victorians should be allowed to work at least two days from home. Press play to hear the full interview on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings.
Changing Tracks 2025: Tahlia's love letter to community radio
Towards the end of 2007 I found my people. A mixed bunch, they defined the next decade of my life, brought together by a relentless love of community radio. Centred around an old terrace house on Cardigan St in Carlton affectionately known as the House of SYN; Everyone was driven, passionate and quirky. Many became fast friends. One of them later became my husband. The constitution of what was then called SYN FM said that once you turned 26, you were out. We made the most of it.
'I'm just Mo': Meet the doctor on a mission to build a children's hospital in Gaza
Mohammed "Dr Mo" Mustafa is on a mission to make a difference in Gaza. The Australian doctor of Palestinian heritage told Raf Epstein of his work on the ground and his goal to build a children's hospital there. Press play to hear the full interview on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings.
'We're a rules-based order society': Brighton council wages war on BMX jumps
Brighton locals are divided over the council's plan to crack down on "illegal" bike jumps at Hurlingham Park. Bayside councillor Robert Irlicht told Raf Epstein he's not against "fun" but the jumps need to be in a designated area. Some locas are worried it will send kids away from the park. Press play to hear the full interview on 774 ABC Radio Melbourne Mornings.
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