Episodes

  • Trailer: You are already inside the system

    Trailer: You are already inside the system
    Sep 16 2026
    You are already part of the system. The question is: how does it work, and where do you fit in? How Australia Works is an SBS podcast about civics and citizenship for the place you call home.

    How Australia Works is an SBS podcast that uses real stories and clear explanations to help you understand how government work in Australia, how laws are made and changed, and how you can have a say. Listen to the series and find shorter versions in 60 languages on the How Australia Works main page.
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    5 mins
  • Who really runs Australia, and where do you fit in

    Who really runs Australia, and where do you fit in
    Sep 23 2026
    Do you know who can help you with a business permit, a rental problem or family support? Through the stories of Fedele, Carol and Abeer, learn how Australia’s three levels of government work. Find out what local, state or territory, and federal governments are responsible for and where to turn for help.

    How Australia Works is an SBS podcast that uses real stories and clear explanations to help you understand how government work in Australia, how laws are made and changed, and how you can have a say. Listen to the series and find shorter versions in 60 languages on the How Australia Works main page.
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    20 mins
  • Why power is split, and how that protects you

    Why power is split, and how that protects you
    Sep 23 2026
    Can you question a fine or official decision? Hugo’s court challenge, a High Court ruling on curfews and ankle monitors, and a parliamentary citizenship crisis show how Australia’s separation of powers can limit authority.

    How Australia Works is an SBS podcast that uses real stories and clear explanations to help you understand how government work in Australia, how laws are made and changed, and how you can have a say. Listen to the series and find shorter versions in 60 languages on the How Australia Works main page.
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    21 mins
  • How laws are made, and how they affect you

    How laws are made, and how they affect you
    Sep 23 2026
    How are laws made in Australia? Through Wurundjeri Elder Uncle Dave Wandin’s story of the Birrarung, also known as the Yarra River, learn how an idea becomes a bill, passes through Victoria’s parliament and receives royal assent, the formal approval that makes it law.

    How Australia Works is an SBS podcast that uses real stories and clear explanations to help you understand how government work in Australia, how laws are made and changed, and how you can have a say. Listen to the series and find shorter versions in 60 languages on the How Australia Works main page.
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    19 mins
  • How laws change, and why it takes time

    How laws change, and why it takes time
    Sep 23 2026
    How do laws change in Australia? Through Rodney Croome’s campaigns for human rights and marriage equality, learn how personal stories, community action, courts and parliament can help change the law, and why the process can take time.

    How Australia Works is an SBS podcast that uses real stories and clear explanations to help you understand how government work in Australia, how laws are made and changed, and how you can have a say. Listen to the series and find shorter versions in 60 languages on the How Australia Works main page.
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    20 mins
  • How people shape change, and why your voice matters

    How people shape change, and why your voice matters
    Sep 23 2026
    Can a small group change a local council decision? Through Julie’s community campaign, Padma’s reflections and practical examples including voting, petitions and contacting representatives, this episode explores how everyday actions can make people’s voices heard.

    How Australia Works is an SBS podcast that uses real stories and clear explanations to help you understand how government work in Australia, how laws are made and changed, and how you can have a say. Listen to the series and find shorter versions in 60 languages on the How Australia Works main page.
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    17 mins