Background Briefing

ABC

News Society & Culture

Latest episode

276 episodes

03 Hometown Boys | Exile
26/01/2026 | 31 mins.
In the days after the 21st birthday party, some residents of Balmoral appear to take sides. As the police case quietly gathers pace, the town’s loyalties harden. Soon Elise and her family find themselves increasingly isolated in their own hometown.
02 Hometown Boys | The Party
16/01/2026 | 32 mins.
Elise comes home to celebrate a classmate’s 21st birthday party. By the end of the night, two old school friends will be accused of a terrible crime. But almost immediately, the town appears to adopt a “nothing to see here” approach, and close around the men.
01 Hometown Boys | One Street Town
16/01/2026 | 30 mins.
Balmoral is a small Victorian town built on tradition, loyalty and knowing your place. But there appears to be an unspoken code when problems arise - stay silent, or risk being cast out altogether.
Introducing... Hometown Boys
09/01/2026 | 2 mins.
In one tiny country town, the football club is the heart of community life. Loyalties are tested when a serious crime occurs at a 21st birthday party involving a star player and his mate.
Long Read | How social media algorithms decide who you are
25/12/2025 | 23 mins.
This week, Prianka Srinivasan arms herself with a burner phone and a fake name, and sets out to learn how Instagram’s algorithm really works.

More News podcasts

About Background Briefing

Background Briefing tells true stories not everyone will want you to hear. We infuse investigative reporting with captivating drama, following the thread of an individual story only to find that it leads us to something bigger. It's the only podcast in Australia that does this week in, week out. Hosted by Thomas Oriti. We want to hear from you too. If you have a tip-off, please contact us at backgroundbriefing[at]abc.net.au

Podcast website

News Society & Culture Documentary