Wally's World

Andrew Wallace MP
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  • Politics
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Welcome to Wally’s World, the podcast where Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace MP pulls back the curtain on life in Parliament and the issues shaping our nation. From the Sunshine Coast to Canberra, Andrew speaks openly about the policies, debates and decisions that affect everyday Australians. Each episode offers a candid look at politics, community, leadership and the challenges facing our country. Andrew’s path to Parliament is anything but typical. Before entering politics he worked as a builder, small business owner and barrister, experiences that shaped his practical approach to public service. Since being elected as the Federal Member for Fisher, Andrew has served Australia in senior parliamentary roles including Speaker of the House of Representatives and Shadow Attorney-General, gaining a unique perspective on how Parliament works and how decisions are made. In Wally’s World, Andrew draws on those experiences to explore the issues that matter most to Australians. From cost-of-living pressures and national security to small business, infrastructure and the future of our communities, nothing is off limits. The podcast also shines a light on the Fisher electorate and the Sunshine Coast, highlighting the people, businesses and organisations that make the region one of the most dynamic communities in Australia. Whether it’s insights from the floor of Parliament, conversations with local leaders, or reflections on the big debates shaping the nation, Wally’s World is a place for honest discussion, practical ideas and a closer look at the work of a modern Member of Parliament. From Fisher to Canberra, welcome to Wally’s World. 🎙️ Media Enquiries: Brendan West - 0402 556 646 - brendan.west@aph.gov.au

  1. 5d ago

    Wally's World - Ep13 - Donna Niazov

    In this episode of Wally's World, I sit down with Sunshine Coast businesswoman and community advocate Donna Niazov for a deeply personal conversation about business, community, identity, antisemitism and what it means to be Jewish in Australia today. Donna shares her journey from growing up in Manchester, living in Israel and eventually making the Sunshine Coast home. She reflects on building a small business from the ground up, the challenges of employing people and navigating red tape, and why immersing herself in the local community helped transform the Sunshine Coast into the place she now proudly calls home. We discuss Donna's extensive involvement in business, sporting and community organisations across the Coast, as well as the opportunities and challenges that come with running a small business in one of Australia's fastest-growing regions. The conversation then turns to Donna's Jewish faith and her experiences as a Jewish woman living on the Sunshine Coast. Donna speaks candidly about October 7, 2023, the frantic hours trying to contact family and friends in Israel, and the profound impact the terrorist attacks had on Jewish communities around the world. She reflects on the rise of antisemitism she has witnessed since, including confronting abuse in Melbourne, removing her Star of David necklace because she felt unsafe, and taking additional precautions to protect her children. Donna also shares her deeply personal connection to the Bondi Hanukkah terrorist attack, which occurred on the same night her family was celebrating her daughter's Bat Mitzvah. She recalls discovering that Rabbi Eli, one of the first rabbis she met after coming to Australia, had been killed, and reflects on the response from Australians and the extraordinary show of support at a Sunshine Coast community vigil. We also discuss misinformation surrounding Israel, the impact of divisive rhetoric, the importance of understanding before judging, and Donna's belief in responding to darkness with light rather than allowing hatred to define her or the Jewish community. At its heart, this is a conversation about resilience, faith, family, community and belonging, and about Donna's belief that regardless of background or religion, Australia should remain a country where people are accepted as Australians first. 🎙️ Wally's World - Ep13 - Donna Niazov More here: https://andrewwallacemp.com.au/podcast-wallys-world/

    Wally's World - Ep13 - Donna Niazov

  2. Aug 19

    Wally's World - Ep12 - Scott Morrison

    In this episode of Wally's World, I sit down with Australia's 30th Prime Minister, Scott Morrison, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, immigration, the COVID-19 pandemic, national security and the decisions that defined his time in public life. Scott reflects on his time as Immigration Minister and the development of Operation Sovereign Borders, explaining why he believed restoring control of Australia's borders was essential to rebuilding confidence in the nation's immigration system. He discusses the strategy behind stopping the boats, the difficult decisions involved and why he believes strong borders underpin a successful and humanitarian migration program. We also look back at the extraordinary political events of 2018 that saw Scott become Prime Minister, the challenge of uniting the Coalition and the path to the Government's unexpected 2019 election victory. Scott speaks candidly about the demands of the prime ministership, the physical and mental toll of political leadership and the personal impact of attacks extending beyond politics to his family and faith. A major part of our conversation focuses on the COVID-19 pandemic. Scott recalls the moment he realised Australia was confronting a crisis unlike anything governments had faced before, the decision to close Australia's international borders, the creation of National Cabinet and the unprecedented challenge of making decisions with limited information and no established playbook. He explains the thinking behind JobKeeper, why his Government moved quickly to protect jobs and businesses, and why, with the information available at the time, he says he would make the major decisions of the pandemic again. We also discuss one of the defining national security decisions of his prime ministership: AUKUS. Scott takes us behind the scenes of the secret negotiations with the United States and United Kingdom, explains why Australia needed nuclear-powered submarines and outlines what he believes must happen next to strengthen Australia's defence capabilities. The conversation finishes on a more personal note, covering the books and historical figures that have influenced him, his Christian faith, life after politics and, of course, the Cronulla Sharks. This is a candid conversation with a former Prime Minister about some of the most consequential decisions in recent Australian history, covering borders, COVID, the economy, defence, leadership and the lessons that remain after leaving office. 🎙️ Wally's World - Ep12 - Scott Morrison more here: https://andrewwallacemp.com.au/podcast-wallys-world/

    Wally's World - Ep12 - Scott Morrison

  3. Aug 5

    Wally's World - Ep11 - Ted O'Brien

    In this episode of Wally’s World, I sit down with my Sunshine Coast colleague, Federal Member for Fairfax and Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ted O’Brien, as we mark ten years since we were both elected to Parliament. Ted reflects on his journey into politics, including his unsuccessful campaign against Clive Palmer in 2013, his election in 2016 and the lessons he has learned during a decade of public service. We discuss the major infrastructure projects we have fought for across the Sunshine Coast, including upgrades to the Bruce Highway, the duplication of the North Coast rail line, the Sunshine Coast Airport and the campaign to deliver passenger rail along the coastal corridor. Ted also looks back on his senior roles as Shadow Treasurer, Shadow Minister for Energy and Climate Change, the Prime Minister’s representative for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and now Shadow Minister for Foreign Affairs. He speaks candidly about developing the Coalition’s nuclear energy policy, why he believes Australia cannot meet its future energy needs without nuclear power, and what the Coalition learned from the 2025 federal election campaign. The conversation explores the successful bid for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the importance of approaching government as both a policymaker and a dealmaker, and the opportunity to use the Games to secure lasting infrastructure for the Sunshine Coast. We also examine the state of the Australian economy, including rising household costs, government spending, productivity, investment and the pressures facing families with mortgages, rents, insurance and energy bills. Ted outlines his concerns about Labor’s housing policies, record migration, falling property values and the risks facing first home buyers entering the market with small deposits. He explains why Australia must increase housing supply, reduce migration to sustainable levels and encourage greater private investment. This is a wide-ranging conversation about public service, infrastructure, nuclear energy, housing, economic reform and the future direction of Australia. 🎙️ Wally's World - Ep11 - Ted O'Brien More here: https://andrewwallacemp.com.au/podcast-wallys-world/

    Wally's World - Ep11 - Ted O'Brien

  4. Jul 22

    Wally's World - Ep10 - Julian Leeser Live

    In this special live episode of Wally’s World, I sit down with Shadow Minister for Education and Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians Julian Leeser MP in front of a live audience at the Alexandra Headland Surf Life Saving Club. Julian reflects on his journey into public life, from becoming Australia’s youngest elected local councillor at just 19 to entering Federal Parliament in 2016. He discusses the personal experiences that have shaped his political career, including the loss of his father to suicide, his work in suicide prevention and his belief that public representatives must be prepared to stand by their convictions. We speak candidly about Julian’s decision to resign from the Coalition frontbench to campaign in support of the Indigenous Voice referendum. He explains what led to that decision, the personal and political consequences, and why he believes leaders must be willing to defend their principles even when colleagues or supporters disagree. The conversation explores Julian’s priorities as Shadow Minister for Indigenous Australians, including improving school attendance and completion, creating greater economic opportunities from Indigenous landholdings and addressing the devastating rate of suicide among Indigenous Australians. Education is also a major focus. Julian discusses falling literacy and numeracy standards, classroom discipline, the overcrowded curriculum, civics education and the growing gap between the educational outcomes of boys and girls. Following visits to local schools and the University of the Sunshine Coast, he reflects on the strengths of education on the Sunshine Coast and the cost pressures facing regional students who must move away to study. Julian also speaks personally about the rise of antisemitism in Australia following the October 7 terrorist attacks and the Bondi Hanukkah attack. He shares the impact these events have had on his family, including the fear experienced by his young children, and outlines his concerns about the response of governments, universities and public institutions. We discuss evidence presented about antisemitism on university campuses, the responsibility of vice-chancellors to protect students and academics, and why Julian believes Australia must defend freedom of religion, equality before the law and the right of every citizen to feel safe in their own country. The episode also examines the future of the Liberal Party following its recent federal election defeats. Julian outlines the values and policies he believes can rebuild support, including tax reform, migration linked to housing, reliable and affordable energy, stronger education standards and a renewed focus on Australian democratic values. Audience members then join the conversation, asking questions about preferential voting, civics education, antisemitism, classroom discipline and racism against First Nations Australians. This is a frank, personal and wide-ranging live conversation about conviction, education, national unity, political leadership and the kind of Australia we want to leave to the next generation. 🎙️ Wally’s World - Ep10 - Julian Leeser Live More here: https://andrewwallacemp.com.au/podcast-wallys-world/

    Wally's World - Ep10 - Julian Leeser Live

  5. Jul 8

    Wally's World - Ep9 - Ambassador Dr Hillel Newman

    In this episode of Wally's World, I sit down with Israel's Ambassador to Australia, Dr Hillel Newman, for a candid conversation about one of the most significant geopolitical issues facing the world today. Dr Newman reflects on the October 7 terrorist attacks and explains how they changed Israel forever. He shares his perspective on the ongoing conflict, the rise of antisemitism around the world, and why he believes many people misunderstand both the significance of the attacks and Israel's response. We discuss the long-standing relationship between Australia and Israel, from the ANZAC legacy at Beersheba and Australia's role in the establishment of the State of Israel, through to the challenges that have emerged in the relationship in recent years. Dr Newman outlines what he believes is needed to rebuild trust and strengthen cooperation between our two nations. The conversation also explores the growing security challenges facing democracies, Australia's preparedness for an increasingly uncertain world, the changing nature of modern warfare, and Israel's leadership in defence, innovation, cybersecurity and technology. Whether discussing national security, resilience, diplomacy or the future of the Australia-Israel relationship, this is a thoughtful and wide-ranging discussion with one of Israel's most senior diplomatic representatives. 🎙️ Wally's World - Ep9 - Dr Hillel Newman

    Wally's World - Ep9 - Ambassador Dr Hillel Newman

  6. Jun 24

    Wally's World - Ep8 - Tony Abbott

    In this episode of Wally's World, I sit down with former Prime Minister Tony Abbott for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, public service, Australian values and the future of the nation. Tony reflects on his early life, education and journey into politics, from his time as a student leader, Rhodes Scholar and journalist to becoming Australia's 28th Prime Minister. He shares personal lessons from his father and the mentors who shaped his thinking, including B.A. Santamaria, John Howard and Cardinal George Pell. We discuss the importance of volunteering and community service, Australia's unique national character, and whether the country has lost some of the ambition, confidence and pride that helped build one of the world's most successful democracies. Tony also looks back on his time as Opposition Leader and Prime Minister, discussing the campaign against the carbon tax, stopping the boats, the MH17 tragedy, the challenges of governing after winning office, and the major infrastructure projects delivered during his government. He speaks candidly about leadership, the realities of political life and the lessons learned from his time in the nation's highest office. The conversation also explores Australia's future, the challenges facing families and communities, the role of strong leadership, and Tony's decision to return to political service as President of the Liberal Party. He outlines why he believes the Coalition can rebuild under Angus Taylor and what he sees as the key challenges confronting Australia in the years ahead. This is a thoughtful and candid discussion with one of the most significant and influential figures in modern Australian politics, covering leadership, resilience, public service, national identity and the future direction of the country. 🎙️ Wally's World - Ep 8 - Tony Abbott

    Wally's World - Ep8 - Tony Abbott

  7. Jun 17

    Wally's World - Ep 7 - Ambassador Wahidullah Waissi

    In this special episode of Wally's World, filmed inside the Afghan Embassy in Canberra just days before it closes its doors, I sit down with His Excellency Ambassador Wahidullah Waissi, Afghanistan's Ambassador to Australia, for a deeply personal and important conversation about the fall of Kabul, life under Taliban rule, and the future of Afghanistan. Ambassador Waissi reflects on the devastating events of 15 August 2021 when the Taliban retook control of Afghanistan, bringing an abrupt end to two decades of progress, particularly for women and girls. He shares what everyday life now looks like inside Afghanistan, where girls are banned from education beyond Grade 6, women are excluded from government employment, and many of the freedoms gained over the previous twenty years have disappeared. We also explore Afghanistan's strategic importance throughout history, Australia's role during the conflict, and the lasting bonds formed between Australians and Afghans through military service, diplomacy and community connections. Most significantly, Ambassador Waissi discusses the Australian Government's decision to close the Afghan Embassy in Canberra at the end of June 2026. Operating as an embassy in exile since the Taliban takeover, the mission has continued to support more than 120,000 Afghans living in Australia while maintaining the symbols and legitimacy of the former Afghan Republic. In a powerful and emotional exchange, the Ambassador reveals why he cannot return to Afghanistan, what the future holds for him and his family, and why he intends to continue advocating for freedom, democracy and human rights from Australia. This is a conversation about sacrifice, friendship, democracy, and the human cost of losing a nation. For anyone interested in foreign affairs, national security, Australia's involvement in Afghanistan, or the future of one of the world's most troubled regions, this is an episode you won't want to miss. 🎙️ Wally's World - Ep 7 - Ambassador Wahidullah Waissi

    Wally's World - Ep 7 - Ambassador Wahidullah Waissi

  8. Jun 10

    Wally's World - Ep 6 - Sam Parker

    In Episode 6 of Wally’s World, I sit down with Sam Parker, founder of Grab Life By The Balls, for an honest and important conversation about men’s mental health, mateship and the power of human connection. As Men’s Health Week approaches, Sam shares the story behind the Sunshine Coast charity that has grown into a national movement, helping thousands of Australian men build friendships, find support and reconnect with their communities. We discuss the confronting reality that seven of the nine suicides that occur every day in Australia are men, why so many men struggle to ask for help, and the life stresses that often sit behind mental health challenges. Sam explains why something as simple as having "three or more close mates" can significantly improve both mental and physical health outcomes, and how Grab Life By The Balls is creating opportunities for men to connect through regular catch-ups, breakfasts, barbecues and community events across Australia. We also explore the challenges facing modern men, including loneliness, relationship breakdowns, financial pressures, work stress and the growing impact of social isolation in an increasingly digital world. But this episode isn’t just about the challenges. It’s about the solutions. Sam shares why mateship, community and genuine human connection remain some of the most powerful tools we have to improve wellbeing and help people through life’s inevitable ups and downs. The solution isn’t always complicated. Sometimes it starts with a conversation, a coffee, a barbecue and a few good mates. If we can champion mateship, that’s a great first step.

    Wally's World - Ep 6 - Sam Parker
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About

Welcome to Wally’s World, the podcast where Federal Member for Fisher Andrew Wallace MP pulls back the curtain on life in Parliament and the issues shaping our nation. From the Sunshine Coast to Canberra, Andrew speaks openly about the policies, debates and decisions that affect everyday Australians. Each episode offers a candid look at politics, community, leadership and the challenges facing our country. Andrew’s path to Parliament is anything but typical. Before entering politics he worked as a builder, small business owner and barrister, experiences that shaped his practical approach to public service. Since being elected as the Federal Member for Fisher, Andrew has served Australia in senior parliamentary roles including Speaker of the House of Representatives and Shadow Attorney-General, gaining a unique perspective on how Parliament works and how decisions are made. In Wally’s World, Andrew draws on those experiences to explore the issues that matter most to Australians. From cost-of-living pressures and national security to small business, infrastructure and the future of our communities, nothing is off limits. The podcast also shines a light on the Fisher electorate and the Sunshine Coast, highlighting the people, businesses and organisations that make the region one of the most dynamic communities in Australia. Whether it’s insights from the floor of Parliament, conversations with local leaders, or reflections on the big debates shaping the nation, Wally’s World is a place for honest discussion, practical ideas and a closer look at the work of a modern Member of Parliament. From Fisher to Canberra, welcome to Wally’s World. 🎙️ Media Enquiries: Brendan West - 0402 556 646 - brendan.west@aph.gov.au

Information

  • Creator
    Andrew Wallace MP
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    13
  • Copyright
    © Authorised by A Wallace, Liberal National Party, Lake Kawana Blvd, Bokarina QLD 4575
  • Provider
    Brendan West

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