Chad Theory

Episode 291 - Labor has won the NSW election under the leadership of Chris Minns, marking an historic moment for NSW as well as for Australia more broadly. Every state and territory in Australia (except Tasmania) is now under Labor government, but the question is how did this happen? How did Labor win? And, what happened to the Liberal Party? Chad, Niko & Liv give you a full breakdown of how it went down, the key seats in play and what it means for both the Labor and Liberal Parties, as well as the minor parties and independent candidates.  Become a subscriber ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for access to the full episode Don't forget to give us a 5-Star Rating! Follow Chad on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation ⁠⁠⁠⁠via PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠ (0:00) Intro (2:52) How it Went Down (11:55) Key Seats (23:27) Legislative Council Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 290 - Bruce Lehrmann is poised to find out if the Federal Court will allow his defamation case against the media to go to trial. Lehrmann is suing Network Ten, Lisa Wilkinson, News Life Media and Samantha Maiden for publishing Brittany Higgins' allegations on 15 February 2021 on The Project and News.com.au, however, he needs the Federal Court to allow him to go to trial given he missed the deadline of 1 year from publication to launch proceedings, known as the limitation period. Chad and Niko get you up to speed on all the important details and offer their insights into where this case is going. NOTE: Bruce Lehrmann has at all times maintained his innocence and has never been convicted of a crime. Don't forget to give us a 5-Star Rating! Follow Chad on ⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠ Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content ⁠⁠Here⁠⁠ Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation ⁠⁠via PayPal⁠⁠ Access the Federal Court documents for this case ⁠⁠here⁠⁠ (0:00) Intro (2:10) Where are we Now? (5:42) Lehrmann's Legal Strategy (21:23) Is the Media's Defence Weak? (33:30) Lisa Wilkinson's Trump Card (36:43) Will Brittany Higgins Show up? Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 289 - As Jarryd Hayne's third trial enters its second week, the court has heard from friends and family of the complainant as well as doctors and forensic experts. However, this trial isn't the same as the first two - there's a difference in the charges this time around. Chad, Niko & Liv discuss all the details coming out of Hayne's Sydney trial and point to flaws and inconsistencies in the case that haven't been reported by the media. Jarryd Hayne has at all times maintained his innocence in this matter, and continues to be afforded a presumption of innocence until a court of law decides otherwise. Don't forget to give us a 5-Star Rating! Follow Chad on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠via PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ (0:00) Intro (1:43) This Case is Different (6:25) The Basic Timeline (14:56) The Forensic Evidence (17:58) The Problem with this Case (30:10) The Jury's Dilemma (34:28) Statistics Tell a Story (44:55) Final Thoughts Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 288 - Several media outlets, including FriendlyJordies, have published a secret recording of John Barilaro and several of his former colleagues discussing how they sought funding from their Liberal Party counterparts to fund projects in their electorates that fell outside of the official budget. Questions have been raised as to why the mainstream media are not covering these recordings, given the potential significance of the revelations that have come out of the clandestine discussions. Chad, Niko & Liv discuss the legality of publishing the recordings and whether or not they reveal if John Barilaro is, in fact, corrupt. Don't forget to give us a 5-Star Rating! Follow Chad on ⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠ Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content ⁠⁠⁠⁠Here⁠⁠⁠⁠ Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation ⁠⁠⁠⁠via PayPal⁠⁠⁠⁠ (0:00) Intro (1:35) The Barilaro Recordings (9:32) Is John Barilaro Corrupt? (12:02) Barilaro vs FriendlyJordies (17:26) Is Pork-Barreling Illegal? (19:14) Final Thoughts Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 287 - Controversial Victorian MP, Moira Deeming, has pledged to resist attempts to eject her from the Liberal Party in parliament following her participation in an anti-trans rights rally that was attended by neo-Nazis. Her presence at the #LetWomenSpeak rally on Saturday prompted the Opposition Leader, John Pesutto, to declare his intention to expel her from the parliamentary Liberal Party. Chad & Liv discuss the fallout from Saturday's protests and take a deep-dive into the women's rights culture wars. Don't forget to give us a 5-Star Rating! Follow Chad on ⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠ Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content ⁠⁠⁠Here⁠⁠⁠ Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation ⁠⁠⁠via PayPal⁠⁠⁠ (0:00) Intro (2:02) Nazis in Melbourne (8:14) John Pesutto vs Moira Deeming (13:56) The Culture Wars! (26:21) Final Thoughts Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 285 - According to the media, Bruce Lehrmann has quite sensationally admitted to lying to a former girlfriend on the night The Project aired Brittany Higgins' sexual assault claims. The former political staffer who is pressing forward with defamation proceedings against Network Ten, News Life Media, Lisa Wilkinson and Samantha Maiden, took the stand on Thursday to answer questions about certain text message conversations he had on 15 February 2021, which seem to contradict the sworn evidence tendered by his legal team regarding legal advice he had received at the time. Chad, Niko & Liv discuss the hearings and explain the context behind these revelations and why they may, or may not, be pertinent to the success of his defamation proceedings. Bruce Lehrmann has at all times maintained his innocence and has never been convicted of a crime. Don't forget to give us a 5-Star Rating! Follow Chad on ⁠Twitter⁠ Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content ⁠Here⁠ Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation ⁠via PayPal⁠ Access the Federal Court documents for this case ⁠here⁠ (0:00) Intro (4:40) Where is the Trial up to? (12:10) The Dispute Explained (18:37) Why did Lehrmann Testify? (25:37) The Text Messages (33:43) What Happens Next? (38:11) Final Thoughts Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 284 - Former Prime Minister, Paul Keating, has labeled the AUKUS agreement between Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom, as the "worst international decision" made by a Labor government since World War I conscription. The deal is estimated to cost the Australian taxpayer between $268 and $368 billion dollars from now until 2055, with the specific target of building, maintaining and servicing eight nuclear-powered submarines in partnership between the three nations. Chad discusses the latest details and provides his analysis and opinions on all aspects of the deal, making specific reference to Paul Keating's latest National Press Club appearance where he called out several journalists for their misleading and biased reporting on the AUKUS deal and China more broadly. Don't forget to give us a 5-Star Rating! Follow Chad on Twitter Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal (0:00) Intro (2:41) The AUKUS Deal (8:08) How Much?! (10:45) Nuclear vs Conventional Subs (14:22) Paul Keating's Take (18:32) The Key Question (23:15) Paul Keating Roasting Journos (34:25) Final Thoughts Watch Paul Keating's full National Press Club here Listen to Episode 239 here Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 283 - The under-40s in NSW are now in the majority, making up 51 per cent of the state's population, continuing the trend since the 2022 federal election, which saw younger voters move away from the Liberal Party in favour of the Greens, Labor & Teals. Chad and Niko discuss this demographic shift, what it means for Australia's major political parties and how it could affect the outcome of the upcoming NSW election. Don't forget to give us a 5-Star Rating! Follow Chad on Twitter Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal (0:00) Intro (3:04) Demographic Shift (9:14) Is the Liberal Party Dead? (22:18) Labor vs Greens (30:44) Final Thoughts Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 281 - News Corp has lodged its defence filing in response to Bruce Lehrmann's Statement of Claim (SOC), regarding two News.com.au articles detailing Brittany Higgins' allegations of rape at Parliament House in 2019. Similar to Lisa Wilkinson, who is the second respondent in the Network Ten proceedings, Samantha Maiden is the second respondent in News Corp's proceedings. News Corp plans to prove that Brittany Higgins was telling the truth. However, they also plan to claim qualified privilege - a specific defence afforded to public interest journalism. Chad & Niko breakdown all of the legal jargon, explain the key differences between News Corp and Network Ten's defence filings, and offer insights into who has the best chance of winning this highly publicised legal dispute. Don't forget to give us a 5-Star Rating! Follow Chad on Twitter Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal (0:00) Intro (2:15) Lehrmann's Claims (18:13) News Corp's Version of Facts (32:21) News Corp's Defence (37:48) Thoughts & Opinions Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 280 - The high-profile workplace dispute between independent MP Monique Ryan and her former chief of staff, Sally Rugg, which is headed for trial in the Federal Court, has caught the attention of Attorney-General Mark Dreyfus, who has become personally involved in the matter. Although Dreyfus is now responsible for overseeing the case, he is apparently at "arms-length" from any negotiations between the parties. However, any settlement in the case will require Dreyfus' approval. So, how is it that the Attorney General can be both personally involved yet at arms-length from these proceedings? It is reported that he considers Sally Rugg's almost $300,000 settlement demand to be too high a sum to consider settling.  Chad & Niko discuss the significance of the revelations and explore all of the potential conflicts of interest in this legal dispute. Don't forget to give us a 5-Star Rating! Follow Chad on Twitter Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal (0:00) Intro (4:06) The Government vs The Taxpayer (11:37) Multiple Conflicts of Interest! (22:31) Final Thoughts Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 279 - Network Ten has lodged its defence filing in response to Bruce Lehrmann's Statement of Claim (SOC), regarding the production and broadcast of Brittany Higgins' allegations of rape on the The Project in February 2021. Similar to Lisa Wilkinson, who is the second respondent in the proceedings, Network Ten plan to prove that Brittany Higgins was telling the truth. However, they also plan to claim qualified privilege - a specific defence afforded to public interest journalism. Chad & Niko breakdown all of the legal jargon, explain the key differences between Lisa Wilkinson and Network Ten's defence filings, and offer insights into who has the best chance of winning this highly publicised legal dispute. (0:00) Intro (4:25) Wilkinson vs Network Ten (15:13) The Facts According to Network Ten (25:02) Network Ten's Defence (44:33) Our Thoughts & Opinions Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 278 - Monique Ryan's chief of staff, Sally Rugg, has failed in her bid to keep her job as a staffer pending the full trial of her Fair Work case where she alleges she was sacked for refusing to work “unreasonable” additional hours. The former political activist claims Ryan had “pushed or jostled” her out of the chief of staff role after refusing to work 70-hour weeks. After almost a month of failed mediation between Rugg, Ryan and the Commonwealth, the case will now go to trial. Chad & Niko get you up to speed on all the important details and offer their thoughts and opinions on this potential precedent case. (0:00) Intro (2:34) Who is Sally Rugg?! (10:54) Rugg v Ryan (20:03) Our Thoughts & Opinions (30:15) Conspiracy Theories Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 277 - Superstar former-athlete, Jarryd Hayne, is on trial for the third time for his alleged involvement in the sexual assault of a young woman on the night of the NRL grand final in 2018. Hayne's first trial resulted in a hung jury, however the subsequent retrial resulted in his conviction and sentencing to almost 6 years in prison. He successfully appealed his conviction, paving the way for a third trial into the same matter.  Chad, Niko & Liv give all the background, provide a detailed analysis of the first two trials and discuss the key issues to get you up to speed for the current trial.  (0:00) Intro (3:05) The Background (10:53) The Facts (31:06) Hayne's Defence (39:57) Hayne's Appeal (43:32) Key Issues (49:55) Our Thoughts & Opinions Prior Judge's Sentencing: https://www.caselaw.nsw.gov.au/decision/179bfe9a49f1ed2129ed8518 Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 275 - Veteran journalist Lisa Wilkinson plans to use a 'truth' defence in the defamation case brought by former federal Liberal staffer Bruce Lehrmann against her and Network Ten. Lehrmann has alleged defamation in relation to Wilkinson's interview with Brittany Higgins on an episode of The Project, which was aired on February 15, 2021, and other related material on the 10Play website and YouTube. The truth defence will aim to prove Lehrmann's alleged rape of Higgins in Parliament House on the balance of probabilities - a lower standard of proof than the criminal burden, beyond reasonable doubt. Chad breaks through all the legal jargon to bring you a detailed analysis of Lehrmann's claims and Wilkinson's potential defence, and offers an insight into the most important aspects of this highly publicised legal dispute. (0:00) Intro (3:54) The Background (7:33) Wilkinson vs Network 10 (11:57) Lehrmann's Claims (23:42) Lehrmann's Damages (33:18) Wilkinson's Defence (42:38) Chad's Thoughts Bruce Lehrmann's Statement of Claim (SOC): https://www.fedcourt.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/107277/NSD103_2023-Statement-of-Claim.pdf Lisa Wilkinson's Defence Filing: https://www.fedcourt.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0007/107278/NSD103_2023-Defence-Lisa-Wilkinson.pdf Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 274 - Australia’s gender pay gap has reached a record low of 13.3%, with women earning 87 cents for every dollar that men earn, based on average full-time base salaries. Governments, both federal and state, are continuing to roll out family friendly social and economic polices to incentivise more women to re-enter the workforce after having children in an attempt to close the gender pay gap, by improving female workforce participation rates. Will this work?  Chad analyses the data and compares Australian, U.S. and Scandinavian gender pay gaps and workforce participation rates to better understand the problems and solutions. (0:00) Intro (2:26) Gender Pay Gap Data (8:07) Why is there a Pay Gap? (9:43) The Neoliberal Fallacy (14:38) The Scandinavian Paradox (21:51) Equality of Opportunity vs Outcome (24:15) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 273 - According to a recent analysis by the Australia Institute, it is the profits of companies, not wages, that have caused a significant increase in inflation in Australia. The think-tank has presented proof of a "profit price spiral," claiming that the excessive inflation is largely attributed to the substantial earnings of big businesses, which account for 69% of the rise in prices. But can corporations set their profit rates in the same way wages are set? If so, by what mechanism? Chad breaks down the media's latest inflation narrative and identifies the major flaw in their argument - and as always, offers a solution. (0:00) Intro (2:31) The Media's New Narrative (8:53) The Problem (11:34) WTF is "Game Theory"? (15:40) What about Human Behaviour? (22:27) Corporate Moral Hazard (25:05) The Solution Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 272 - Australia's superannuation industry is often touted as being one of the best in the world, boasting over $3 trillion in assets under management. Recently, debate has flared up yet again around what super should actually be used for, because believe it or not, we don't actually have a legislated definition on what superannuation is! But while Jim Chalmers and the media focus on a definition for super, there are a few other long standing issues that remain unresolved. Chad discusses superannuation tax issues, the concentration of union power and the chronic underperformance of super funds. (0:00) Intro (2:08) The Super Problem (7:36) The Super Tax Dodge (11:08) Super Fund Politics (19:53) Super Fund Underperformance (27:03) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 270 - The NSW Liberal Party is in overdrive to replace sacked candidates before the election including Peter Poulos, who in 2018 (when he was a political staffer) shared an email containing explicit photos of his then political rival, Robyn Preston, from a photo shoot for Penthouse Magazine she had done when she was 22 and published in 1980, as well as Damien Tudehope (Finance & Employment Minister) who was forced to resign following his shareholdings in toll giant Transurban being revealed, creating a perception of a conflict of interest. Dominic Perrottet's family has been dragged into the election drama as well, with a Parliamentary inquiry hiring private contractors to track down two of his brothers to summons them to provide testimony before the committee investigating alleged branch stacking in Sydney's North-West. Chad, Niko & Liv discuss all the details and offer insights into what's really going on. (0:00) Intro (2:47) The Liberal Party's "Penthouse Pet" (19:42) Shareholders Anonymous (25:00) Perrottet Brothers MIA (37:34) Final Thoughts Ep. 242 “Dominic Perrottet’s Big Secret“ contains details on David Elliot’s background  Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 269 - Queensland police have labeled last year's shooting of two police officers and a neighbour in Wieambilla as Australia's first fundamentalist Christian terrorist attack. Police and security agencies have trawled through the Train family's diary, phones, and online communications to piece together their motives for the attack. They found that the trio acted as an autonomous cell and executed a religiously motivated terrorist attack. The Trains subscribed to a broad Christian fundamentalist belief system known as premillennialism. They had viewed police as "monsters and demons" and had undergone "advanced preparation and planning" before the fatal shootout. Chad explores the Trains' fundamentalist Christian beliefs and questions whether the attacks were acts of terrorism. (0:00) Intro (3:05) QLD Police Investigation (13:57) WTF is Premillennialism?! (19:11) Was it Terrorism? (28:04) Why it Matters (36:34) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 268 - The Greens Party are holding up Labor's legislative agenda by refusing to support the government in three key policy areas: Housing, Climate and Manufacturing. The Greens are demanding that Labor put through their amendments before the bills make it to the Senate, threatening to pull support if they don't concede. Without the Coalition's support in these areas, the Labor Party is stuck between a rock and a hard place. So how will they get out of this predicament? Who has the policy mandate? And, who will blink first? (0:00) Intro (4:04) Labor's Problem (7:09) $10bn Housing Australia Fund (16:32) Climate Safeguard Mechanism (22:07) $15bn National Reconstruction Fund (29:31) Chad's Take (35:39) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 267 - Anthony Albanese came into office last year on the back of a promise to bring back integrity, respect and collaboration to public office. He insisted that politics could change with the times and become more transparent and inclusive of all Australians. He declared that his government would collaborate with the cross-bench, even if he didn't need the numbers - because that's what 'good government' looks like. Chad provides an assessment of the Prime Minister's promises and declarations thus far, making particular reference to recent events in this year's new parliament, from Labor's attempt to hide superfund donations to unions, to issuing contracts for advice to former Labor colleagues without an open tender process. (0:00) Intro (2:38) Ministerial Advisers Slashed (8:35) Monique Ryan vs Sally Rugg (13:25) Labor Rams Through Legislation (18:47) Superfund Donations to Unions (21:53) Jobs for the Boys! (24:17) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 265 - Controversial Liberal MP, Alan Tudge, has resigned from politics, effective next week. Tudge brought the Liberal Party into disrepute on several occasions throughout his career, leaving parliament with a legacy of incompetence and a lack of accountability. Tudge’s resignation will trigger a byelection in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs seat of Aston, however speculation that former Treasurer, Josh Frydenberg, will contest the seat has been shot down after he reportedly indicated he doesn’t intend to run. Chad, Niko & Liv have a casual conversation about Alan Tudge's resignation, what it means for Peter Dutton and the Liberal Party. (0:00) Intro (1:46) Alan Tudge Resigns (8:08) Why Josh Frydenberg Said No (17:15) Peter Dutton's First Test (27:21) Who Can Save the Liberal Party? Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 264 - The Victorian government has proposed new laws to give police the discretion to register various professions (including lawyers, doctors, journalists and judges) as confidential human sources, alternatively known as informants. This move is in response to the Lawyer X scandal and recommendations from the McMurdo royal commission. However, legal bodies in Victoria have warned that these laws may allow police to use lawyers as informants, similar to the Lawyer X scandal, compromising client-lawyer confidentiality. Chad & Niko discuss the background that led to the proposed legislation and the potential red flags that it represents. (0:00) Intro (2:51) Alan Tudge to Resign (5:33) Human Source Management Bill (7:55) Lawyer X (Nicola Gobbo) (25:41) New Informant Rules (29:44) Government vs The People Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 263 - A parliamentary inquiry found that former NSW deputy premier John Barilaro's appointment to a trade job in New York was a "job for the boys" and that his proposal to convert state commissioner roles to ministerial appointments was made without a reasonable basis. The report discovered that the former trade minister Stuart Ayres was involved in the hiring process for John Barilaro's trade job, but this was disputed by a dissenting statement from National MLC Wes Fang and Liberals Scott Farlow and Peter Poulos, who claimed the report was a politically motivated attack ahead of an election. Chad, Niko and Liv do a deep dive into John Barilaro's failed appointment, and discuss the problems with political appointments around honesty and integrity. (0:00) Intro (1:50) Political Hit Job (10:59) WTF is a "Trade Commissioner"? (20:42) Global NSW Strategy (25:26) The Recruitment Process (34:34) The Problem with Politics...   (53:26) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 262 - Controversial Victorian Senator, Lidia Thorpe, has announced she is leaving the Greens Party and becoming an independent member on the crossbench in the Australian Senate. Her decision was influenced by her criticism of the Indigenous voice referendum and her refusal to support it unless Indigenous sovereignty is recognised. She intends to move forward as an independent senator representing the "grassroots black sovereign movement". (0:00) Intro (1:46) Lidia Thorpe Resigns (8:15) A Long Time Coming...  (11:57) Senate Balance of Power (15:25) Lidia Thorpe vs The Greens (20:05) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 261 - Former NSW Nationals leader, John Barilaro, has become a focal point in the State's election campaign due to a report by the auditor general which found that his office interfered in the allocation of over $500 million in bushfire recovery grants, creating rules that resulted in Labor electorates missing out entirely and lacking transparency.  However, that wasn't the full extent of the spotlight on Barilaro this week - the former Deputy Premier's criminal case surrounding his involvement in a scuffle outside a Manly restaurant, where he was alleged to have assaulted a freelance cameraman, was dismissed on mental health grounds. Add to this reports John Barilaro had sought support from senior gambling industry figures in an attempt to land the recently vacated top job at ClubsNSW, and you have the John Barilaro Show!  (0:00) Intro (Prologue) (2:48) Bushfire Grants (Act I) (12:58) Case Dismissed! (Act II) (17:15) ClubsNSW (Act III) (19:09) Final Thoughts (Epilogue) Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 257 - The ABC's latest Four Corners investigation, "Purity: An Education in Opus Dei", provided an insight into the anachronistic teachings of two Opus Dei schools in North-Western Sydney. However, the documentary also claimed to "investigate the disturbing practices of the conservative Catholic organisation and its influence in the NSW Liberal Party." Yet, the episode didn't show any strong links between the schools' teachings and Dominic Perrottet or the Liberal Party, other than that of him and his siblings having attended the schools in question. So, why did the ABC do this investigation? (0:00) Intro (2:11) "Hell on Earth" (6:37) Louise Milligan's History (10:48) School Funding (Fact Check) (14:11) The 'Misinformation' Myth (19:08) Dominic Perrottet (23:55 ) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 256 - Novak Djokovic has sensationally won his 10th Australian Open title taking his total Grand Slam tally to 22, tying with Rafael Nadal for top dog status. However, he has also become somewhat of a cult hero to the anti-vaxxer movement both here in Australia and abroad. His win this year has been framed by many in the movement as a win for the unvaccinated, despite there being no scientific connection with his vaccination status and tennis ability. So, is Novak Djokovic the hero they want him to be or has his name and likeness been hijacked to satisfy the now flailing Covid conspiracy movement? (0:00) Intro (1:47) 2022 Deportation (4:56) Galvanised Anti-Vaxxers (6:18) Novak's Pseudoscience (10:10) My Social Media Posts (17:13) The Truth (19:41) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 254 - The NSW Government will introduce a domestic coal reservation policy to prevent blackouts and ease an energy crisis gripping the east coast. NSW Treasurer, Matt Kean, will issue orders requiring the majority of the state’s thermal coal miners to reserve up to 10 per cent of their output for NSW power stations by the end of the month. The orders represent an expansion of rules introduced in December requiring only some coal miners to reserve production for the domestic market, included alongside a $125-a-tonne cap on the price of coal sold to local power providers. They could draw in major producers such as BHP, Whitehaven Coal and Yancoal, whom have subsequently come out publicly demanding transparency. So, what's the problem here? Isn't all coal the same? Can't we just blend different types of coal from different producers for our domestic power stations? And what about the economics? The numbers add up... right? (0:00) Intro (1:51) What is Coal? (8:25) Where is Australia's Coal? (11:29) What is "Clean Coal"? (13:19) NSW Coal Reserve Policy (21:21) The Economics of Stupidity (26:25) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 253 - A well known Australian man was charged with rape earlier this month after his alleged victim googled a high-profile national scandal in which he was involved. The alleged victim told police that when she saw a photo of him online, she realised he was the same man she alleges had non-consensual, unprotected sex with her after they met in a Toowoomba nightclub in Oct­ober 2021. Also, journalists hauled before the QLD Crime and Corruption Commission (CCC) will be protected from revealing whistleblower sources under Queensland law changes expected this year. Under the new legislation, journalists are granted what is known as a "qualified privilege" which excludes journalists from having to give evidence or disclose information if doing so will reveal the identity of a confidential informant. And, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) will be given new powers to impose a compulsory code of conduct against misinformation on digital platforms such as Google, Apple, Meta, Twitter and TikTok. Digital platforms will continue to be responsible for the content they host and promote to users, the ACMA will not have a role in determining what is truthful, however there are specific exemptions from this compulsory code for certain individuals and organisations. (0:00) Intro (2:44) QLD Rape Case (16:40) Whistleblower 'Shield Laws' (23:48) New Misinformation Powers (28:02) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 252 - Jacinda Arden's resignation has shocked observers, leaving commentators scrambling to assess her legacy. She spent almost 6 years as New Zealand's Prime Minister, dealing with several crises, an unprecedented pandemic, and along the way, a few too many policy failures. But what was her biggest policy failure? She's often celebrated for bringing "kindness" back to politics, but aside from the rhetoric, what was Jacinda Arden's policy legacy for the average Kiwi, and what lessons can Australia take away from her controversial tenure as Prime Minister?  (0:00) Intro (1:31) Epic Policy Fail (10:25) Failed Coverup (13:16) Her Real Legacy (16:57) Chad's Take (19:23) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 249 - A Victorian supreme court judge has denied bail for a 13-year-old facing 181 charges, saying that if released from youth detention there is a “near inevitability” he will offend again. The boy faces 181 separate charges, including more than a dozen charges of aggravated burglary, multiple charges of home invasion, burglary, theft, robbery, attempted robbery, affray, intentionally causing injury, assault, assault in company, assault by kicking, and assault with a weapon.  Also, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has indicated his intention to raise the age of criminal responsibility from 10 to 14 if national action is lacking, amidst pressure from the Greens who are using their newfound influence to pressure Labor to reform the state’s youth justice system.  And finally, Victoria is taking steps to decriminalise public intoxication, which disproportionately affects Aboriginal communities. The new "health-based" response has been trialled in varying stages across the local government areas of Yarra, Dandenong, Shepparton and the Mount Alexander Shire, before a planned statewide rollout in November. (0:00) Intro (3:02) 13-Year-Old Faces 181 Charges (11:03) Age of Criminal Responsibility (16:02) Public Intoxication Decriminalised (19:45) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 248 - The death of senator Jim Molan has created a five-year upper house vacancy for the Liberal Party in NSW which has to be filled by a Liberal who will be selected by the full 750-member state council. Tony Abbott and Katherine Deves are said to be interested in taking up the casual vacancy, but informal factional agreements will come into play. Also, Chad takes a look into the latest Brittany Higgins lawsuit, a QLD rape case where a high profile man's identity has been hidden after he failed to appear in court, and the AFP bungle that will potentially cost Aussie taxpayers millions in damages. (0:00) Intro (3:11) Liberals' Senate Problem (8:27) Chad's Take (12:03) Brittany Higgins Lawsuit (16:14) QLD Rape Case No Show (20:22) AFP's Multi-Million Dollar Case (24:52) What's the Solution? (28:35) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 247 - Three law firms have entered into a joint co-operation agreement against both Medibank and AHM in relation to the October data breach which saw hackers access information on 9.7 million current and former customers, including names, dates of birth, addresses, phone numbers and email addresses, as well as the claims data of hundreds of thousands of policy holders. With Medibank refusing to pay the $14.3m ransom demanded by the hackers, a data dump in December saw the full trove of stolen records posted to the dark web. Chad & Niko break through all the technical details to bring you a clear explanation of what actually happened as well as the legal issues surrounding our rights to privacy in Australia. (0:00) Intro (2:11) Billion Dollar Lawsuit (6:42) How the Hack Happened (12:58) Legal Issues (25:55) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 246 - Victoria Police have concluded an internal investigation into the pepper-spraying and arrests of members of the media at an anti-lockdown protest in Melbourne in 2021, determining that no disciplinary action will be taken against the officers involved. A Victoria Police spokesman confirmed the matters had been examined by Professional Standards Command under the Victoria Police Act, that no members had been disciplined and that the complaints "have been determined unfounded... there will be no further action taken". Chad & Niko take a closer look at how Victoria Police are able to legally justify such behaviour, and what, if anything, we can do to stop them. (0:00) Intro (2:06) Journalists Assaulted & Arrested (4:36) Legal Settlement (10:37) Victorian Legislation (19:24) Do we Need a Bill of Rights? (27:02) What is a Journalist? (34:18) Victoria Police Attrition (37:02) Final Thoughts Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 (Vic): https://content.legislation.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-06/06-43aa015%20authorised.pdf Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 245 - Legal questions are being asked of Dominic Perrottet as to whether or not he had told Liberal Party officials he wore the uniform to his 21st birthday party in 2003 on “nomination for selection” forms. In NSW, swearing a false statutory declaration is a criminal offence punishable by five years in prison. Is this merely a technicality, or should police investigate the matter further? (0:00) Intro (1:57) False Statutory Declaration (4:26) Perrottet's Response (9:21) Sky News' Train-wreck Interview (21:33) Chad's Take (27:16) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 242 - Dominic Perrottet, now 40-years-old, has revealed he wore a Nazi uniform to his 21st birthday party in 2003. Transport Minister David Elliot stated that he had warned Perrottet in a phone call about his political opponents knowing that he had worn the uniform and one of them was conspiring to use it against him. The revelations come just weeks before the March state elections, threatening to derail the Liberal Party's chances at re-election as well as Dominic Perrottet's career. (0:00) Intro (2:15) The Background (7:38) Who is David Elliot? (16:06) Troy Stolz vs Chris Minns (19:22) Will Dom Survive this? (33:16) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 241 - Two helicopters operated by Sea World Helicopters collided mid-air at the start of the New Year, when one was attempting to land and the other departing from a helipad at Sea World theme park. Both helicopters were conducting paid "joy rides" for park-goers along the Gold Coast Broadwater. The crash resulted in the deaths of four people, including one of the pilots, while nine survived, three of whom are in critical condition. Chad takes a deep dive into the potential civil lawsuits as well as potential criminal responsibility.  (0:00) Intro (1:51) What Happened? (9:09) Civil Lawsuits (24:03) Criminal Responsibility (31:29) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 240 - Australia’s long-term demographic challenge is our ageing population. The share of people aged 65 and over has doubled over the past 70 years. Who's going to pay the taxes to support the ever-growing government budgets? How will we ensure that all Aussies get a chance at a decent standard of living, especially considering the cost of living challenges facing families as a result of decades of government policy failures and taxpayer funded mismanagement? Federal, state and local governments have all abdicated their responsibilities in favour of skewed incentive structures and a lack of transparency and responsibility in town planning and immigration decisions. What is the solution here, if there even is one? (0:00) Intro (2:02) Population Control (6:44) The Migration Addiction (11:51) States vs Local Governments (18:58) Stamp Duty vs Land Tax (23:52) Addicted to Stamp Duty (28:20) The Solution - Chad's Take (35:22) Final Thoughts NSW Budget Paper (Revenue): https://www.budget.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-06/2022-23_Budget-Paper-No-1-Budget-Statement-Revenue.pdf Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 239 - Two U.S. Senators have called for a “sober assessment” of the agreement between the US, Australia and Britain, and explicitly warned against selling Australia submarines off the production line at the risk of stressing production and not meeting their own domestic demands. The senators also warned of “regulatory constraints” in sharing US military secrets, saying there was currently “little understanding” of the legal hurdles that would be required to transfer ­nuclear submarine technology to Australia. Australian Opposition leader, Peter Dutton, wrote a letter to the Prime Minister warning that the government was making a "catastrophic mistake" by not putting forward its preferred model ahead of the referendum, and that not doing so would spark a "dangerous and divisive" debate. Dutton claimed Albanese was treating the public "like mugs" over the Voice, that their proposal lacked any concrete detail and would not achieve its intended purpose. (0:00) Intro (2:43) U.S. Submarine Deal Controversy (14:09) Battle for the Voice Escalates (20:48) More Pokies Lies! (27:28) Final Thoughts Become a Paid Subscriber for exclusive content Here Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 238 - Dominic Perrottet has managed to push through three women onto the Liberal Party's upper house ticket ahead of the March election on the basis that preselections are part of political life and more diversity in the upper house would lead to better policy. An earlier deal organised by Perrottet required amendments to get over the line a second time, as it was initially scrapped due to factional infighting. However, the NSW State Premier is bravely pushing ahead with his cashless card agenda, standing up to the all powerful NSW gambling lobby who are staunchly rejecting the need for reform. But, cracks are beginning to appear within the gambling industry as RSL members in favour of reform hit back at "tone deaf" comments from senior management within the RSL, whom are reluctant to see any policies introduced that will impact their gambling revenues. Also, returned "ISIS bride", Mariam Raad, has been charged, fronting Griffith Local Court briefly before being released on bail. She is accused of willingly travelling to an IS-controlled area of Syria in 2014 knowing about the activities of her husband, senior IS fighter Muhammad Zahab. (0:00) Intro (2:03) Upper House v Lower House (6:51) Perrottet's Deal (12:58) NSW Gambling Battle (20:12) Division in Gambling Lobby (24:37) Chad & Niko - Perrottet's Deal (40:38) Chad & Niko - NSW Gambling Battle (48:04) Chad & Niko - ISIS Bride Charged (51:53) Final Thoughts Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 237 - A young Brisbane mother, Emma Lovell, was allegedly murdered while fighting off two 17-year-old boys who had broken into her home just before midnight on Boxing Day. Her husband was also injured in the incident, but luckily survived. The stabbings have reignited criticism of the Queensland government’s handling of youth crime and have renewed calls for tighter bail laws. Also, public genetic databases are being used by forensic law enforcement teams around the world to match DNA from crime scenes to catch and prosecute criminals. Similarly, in Australia, QR code check-in data have previously been used to locate witnesses to crimes for the purposes of assisting prosecutions. Is this a breach of privacy? Do we have a right to privacy in Australia? (0:00) Intro (1:43) What Happened (3:13) The Alleged Perpetrators (4:15) Previous Incident (7:21) Halfway House "Crisis Centre" (9:43) Youth Justice Reforms (10:54) Liv & Niko's Take! (14:13) Was this a "Hate Crime"? (16:40) Who are we Trying to Protect? (27:52) Law Reform (36:17) Forensics & Public Genetics Data Bases (48:58) QR Check-in Data Used by Police (53:59) Privacy Laws in Australia (56:41) Final Thoughts Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 236 - Federal and State Governments have agreed to pay energy producers compensation for pre-existing supply contracts exceeding the caps legislated by parliament. The compensation deals are tied to commercial coal contracts, so their exact costs are likely to remain secret. However, it has come to light that these compensation packages to coal producers could go into the billions. What’s going on here? Is Albo playing dumb? What about Adam Bandt and David Pocock? Are they just pandering to their supporters by feigning outrage, knowing that they had to offer some sort of compensation to private companies for government price caps? (0:00) Intro (2:18) Energy Price Cap (8:12) Home Equity Scheme (10:13) The Immigration Problem (20:12) Albo’s Big Lie (26:09) Niko's Take (32:37) Who's Lying? (36:51) Is Albo Too Left-Wing? (40:28) Liberal v Labor (44:19) Canada Bans Foreign Ownership (46:05) Skilled Worker Shortage (47:50) Final Thoughts Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James

Episode 235 - Australian Federal Government cabinet documents from 2002 outlining the former Howard government’s strategy and thinking around the negotiations for the Timor Sea Treaty and utilisation agreement for the Greater Sunrise natural gas field have been withdrawn and excluded from public access. A three-page cabinet minute and a 13-page submission are being withheld from public access under the Archives Act 1983 because disclosing it could potentially "damage Australia’s security, defence or international relations" according to the National Archives of Australia. (0:00) Intro (3:03) The Background (17:17) Chad's Take (25:25) Niko's Back! (45:55) Final Thoughts Give us a 5-Star Rating to let people know you love Chad Theory! Follow Chad on Twitter and Instagram Help to keep Chad Theory independent by making a one-off or recurring donation via PayPal Written and Created by Chad James