Afternoon Light Robert Menzies Institute

Dive into the personalities and politics that shaped Australia-India relations during the Menzies era!
 
On Afternoon Light #150 Georgina Downer meets with Teesta Prakash to explore the structural and personal factors that complicated Robert Menzies’s diplomatic relationship with Jawaharlal Nehru.
 
The two question the extent to which the complexities of India’s independce possibly contributed to perceived neglect of this crucial partnership, and proceed to discuss Menzies' efforts to find solutions to the Kashmir issue and his interest in a robust Australia-India bond.
 
They also explore the Cold War dynamics, highlighting the power of personal relationships, aid, and diplomacy in strengthening ties amidst global crisis.

On Afternoon Light #149 Georgina Downer meets with sociologist Dr Katharine Betts to discuss the history of migration and social cohesion in Australia.
Together, Georgina and Katharine explore the cultural benefits of immigration, the complexities of identity and belonging and the importance of unity, our collective responsibility towards the broader community and the environment, and the need for careful consideration and management of immigration to avoid social unrest and ensure economic stability.

On Afternoon Light #148 Georgina Downer meets with Tania Cammarano, a food historian, author, and public speaker, to discuss the historical evolution and cultural significance of Italian food in Australia. Italian food plays an important role in our food culture, not just for its popularity and versatility. Together, Georgina and Tania explore the development of Italian food in Australia, including the import of historic culinary traditions; how restaurants influenced our broader food culture through their creativity and innovation; and the role of glamour in marketing Italian food in Australia during the 1950s and 1960s. 

On Afternoon Light #147 Georgina Downer meets with historian, lexicographer, and Director of the Australian National Dictionary Centre at ANU, Amanda Laugesen, to discuss on the evolution and cultural significance of the Australian accent.
They explore changes to the accent over time, from its stigmatisation in the early 20th century to its eventual acceptance and celebration; dissect debates of the 1930s and 40s about what constitutes an Australian accent; and examine the influence of education, elocution, and global media on our collective sound.

In this episode of Afternoon Light, Georgina Downer sits down with Senator James Paterson, Shadow Minister for Home Affairs, delving into crucial topics surrounding national security and defence.
From the imperative of heightened investment and patriotism to the historical resonance and contemporary relevance of conscription in Australia, they explore the intricacies of maintaining national unity amidst the increasing global pressures.
Their discussion concludes with mention of Australia's nuclear submarine program, unpacking the complexities of cost and safety considerations surrounding nuclear energy. Tune in for a deep dive into the critical issues shaping Australia's future!

Georgina Downer and author and economist Paul Tilley discuss the history of tax reform in Australia to highlight its influence on present day policy decisions. Through comparative analysis of tax structures overseas, they also explore the benefits of a system of taxation characterised by three key markers of success — efficiency, equity, and simplicity.
Paul Tilley is an author and economist. He served as an economic policy adviser to governments for 30 years, working mainly in Treasury but also the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Treasurer’s Office, and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
He is currently a Visiting Fellow at the Australian National University’s Tax and Transfer Policy Institute, and a Senior Fellow at the Melbourne Law School. Prior to writing Mixed Fortunes: A History of Tax Reform in Australia, he published Changing Fortunes: A History of the Australian Treasury.