The Rudd government has been positioning itself as being tough on border protection in response to the latest wave of refugees heading towards our shores. Today the situation has escalated with 260 Sri Lankan asylum seekers in waters between Australia and Indonesia reportedly threatening to blow themselves up if the Indonesian military forces them ashore there instead of here. Former Minister for Immigration Philip Ruddock, says Australia needs to toughen up it’s border protection laws, or we’ll face a flood of asylum seekers, thanks to the work of people smugglers. But is toughening up on people smugglers going to help? Featured in story: Bernard Keane, Canberra Correspondent for Crikey and Dr Sam Pari, National Spokesperson for the Australian Tamil Congress

Kevin Rudd says he’s committed to improving the state of the nation’s healthcare system… but if the latest findings from our major medical body are anything to go by, he isn’t living up to his word. Featured in story: AMA Federal Vice President, Steve Hambleton; Public Policy Consultant at the Lowy Institute, Bill Bowtell.

It seems to be a regular catch-cry of both State and Federal Governments to “get tough on crime”. After a recent string of crimes allegedly involving a young group of serial re-offenders in South Australia, that State’s Attorney General made international news this week, calling the group “pure evil”, saying the so called "Gang of 49" are beyond rehabilitation, and deserve lengthy gaol terms. But can the answer be that simple? Featured in this interview: C-E-O of OFFENDERS AID AND REHABILITATION SERVICES – LEIGH GARRETT.

Peace activist Sue Gilbey has just returned from the 7th Meeting of the International Network of Women Against Militarism, held this year in Guam. At the conference she heard shocking tales of the behaviour of US soldiers towards women in the countries where they are based.