Media
ABC reporter investigated over outlaw podcast fallout
The ABC is investigating Four Corners reporter Mahmood Fazal after his side project, a true crime podcast with self-described “media cowboy” Ryan Naumenko, imploded after one episode.
As Calum Jaspan and Kate McClymont report in The Sydney Morning Herald, the broadcaster later confirmed the podcast was never fully approved and pulled support once gambling ads appeared in the first episode, breaching ABC’s external work rules.
Herald Sun defends Groth story as public interest
The Guardian’s Benita Kolovos reports that The Herald Sun is standing by its reporting on MP Sam Groth, telling the federal court it was legitimate political journalism that could have been “weaponised” ahead of Victoria’s 2026 election.
The paper argues it’s protected under public interest and journalism exemptions from new privacy laws. Groth’s lawyers hit back, calling the coverage “gossip, rumour, and irrational conclusions.”
AI
Spotify partners with labels on ‘responsible’ AI music
The BBC’s Imran Rahman-Jones writes that Spotify is teaming up with Sony, Universal, Warner, Merlin and Believe to develop “responsible” AI tools that it says will “put artists and songwriters first” and respect copyright.
The streamer says artists can opt in or out, but hasn’t revealed what the tools will actually do. Critics warn more AI could further cut earnings for human musicians.
Reddit’s new AI gives alarming advice
Reddit’s shiny new conversational AI tool, Reddit Answers, is in hot water after suggesting users try heroin and kratom (a herbal substance that can cause have opiod-like effects) for pain relief.
As 404 Media’s Emanuel Maiberg’s explains, the feature pulls from Reddit’s massive archive of user posts. The recommendation was flagged by moderators.
Labor seeks tech and union input on AI strategy
Capital Brief’s John Buckley writes Labor has held closed-door briefings with tech leaders and unions as it finalises Australia’s National AI Capability Plan, expected by year’s end.
Led by Industry Minister Tim Ayres, the talks covered local investment in AI, support for homegrown large language models and the impact on jobs.
Social Media
TikTok pushes ad spend despite US uncertainty
Ashley King from Digital Music News reports that TikTok is urging brands to lift ad spend by 25% year on year, offering media credits to those who comply as pressure mounts over its future in the US.
Most advertisers are staying loyal despite the political turbulence, while TikTok doubles down with new AI ad tools and an expanded TikTok Shop.
Radio
ARN parts ways with ‘Life Uncut’ podcast
The Australian Radio Network (ARN) has confirmed that its long-running partnership with Life Uncut, the popular podcast hosted by Brittany Hockley and Laura Byrne, will come to an end at the close of 2025.
An ARN spokesperson told Mediaweek, “After six successful years together, ARN and Life Uncut will part ways at the end of 2025, allowing us to focus on new iHeart Originals launching in 2026.”
Publishing
Robbie Arnott and Tasma Walton share $100k historical fiction prize
The ABC’s Hannah Story writes that Robbie Arnott and Tasma Walton have jointly won the $100,000 ARA Historical Novel Prize, one of Australia’s richest literary awards.
Arnott’s Dusk was praised for its poetic take on colonial Tasmania, while Walton’s debut impressed judges with its First Nations perspective on Australia’s past.
Entertainment
Stars gather for Foxtel’s tribute to Brian Walsh
Australian screen, music and sporting talent turned out at Sydney’s Ritz Randwick for the world premiere of The Great Entertainer, Foxtel’s new documentary honouring the late TV legend Brian Walsh.
The film celebrates Walsh’s trailblazing career and his role in shaping Australian pop culture, mentoring stars like Nicole Kidman, Hugh Jackman, Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan.
Main image: Ryan Naumenko