Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw. File

Nearly 1,000 jobseekers had their payments cancelled over a 2 year period, even with laws in place to stop it happening. Here’s what went wrong, and why the federal watchdog is calling it a “catastrophe”.  

And is Donald Trump’s war on DEI coming here? We ask Australia’s Race Discrimination Commissioner. 

Plus: lost luggage, ski injuries, scooter accidents. Ever thought you were covered by your travel insurance… when you really weren’t? We’re breaking down what’s actually in the fine print.

Listen now:

01:20 – Why jobseekers were cut off out of the blue

05:55  – How the government should tackle racism in Australia 

15:15 – The nightmare of not being covered properly by travel insurance

22:00 – What you need to know about the fine print

Guests: 

• Giridharan Sivaraman, Race Discrimination Commissioner
• Tim Bennett, insurance expert

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The headlines have been warning about a decline in Aussie travel numbers to the USA- but data from 1Cover Travel Insurance suggests the opposite: Australians remain keen on travelling to the United States, with no evident decline in demand.

While reports have suggested waning interest in the States, both internal sales data and official ABS figures say otherwise. In fact, monthly ABS data reveals that travel to the US climbed by six per cent in May, and by eight per cent compared to the same month in 2024. Overall, more Aussies are heading to the US this year than last, despite predictions to the contrary.

Similarly, 1Cover Travel Insurance has reported consistent policy sales to the US, with no sign of lowered demand. In June, US sales increased by 28% compared to the same period last year and have continued to track well above 2024 levels into July.

Natalie Ball, COO for 1Cover Travel Insurance says “Despite reports of changing travel habits, our data shows a steady interest in USA travel. We believe that strong cultural ties to the United States, in addition to popular sporting events and major tourist attractions have led to consistent travel numbers. Additionally, pent-up travel demand, post pandemic, is actually driving up US travel, rather than reducing it.”

While border entry concerns and cost of living pressures have been cited as reasons for dropping interest in US travel, Ball says that they haven’t significantly altered Aussie travel habits, instead, other destinations are simply competing more strongly for attention.

“While the US is still one of the top 10 destinations for Australian travellers, we’ve also seen growing competition from hotspots closer to home, particularly Asian destinations like Japan and Thailand. Costs and convenience will always factor into travel choices; however, the USA still holds huge appeal.”

Why Aussies are still flocking to the USA

*NRL kickoffs and other major sporting events

Sporting events are a huge drawcard for Aussies travelling to the US and this year’s NRL season kickoff in Los Vegas was no exception. More than 20,000 Aussies flocked to Las Vegas for this year’s event, up 30 per cent on the inaugural match in 2024. Additionally, growing interest in the NFL, thanks to a raft of Aussies drafts, has led to a rise in fans headed to the States to show support.

*Ski and snowsports

While the US snow season may not be quite as renowned as Japan or Canada, Aspen is still among one of our most popular overseas ski hotspots with Australians making up one of its largest international markets. Other popular ski spots include Vail, Colorado, Utah’s Park City and Wyoming’s Jackson Hole. These destinations are especially appealing during the Australian summer, offering a winter escape that pairs world-class slopes with a refreshing change of season.

*US cruise routes

With more ships sailing from major US ports and offering bucket-list itineraries, destinations like the Bahamas are gaining serious traction, with major cruise lines offering short island getaways and longer luxury escapes. The Caribbean, a mainstay of many cruising itineraries, are also seeing a resurgence in interest among Australian travellers. Additionally, with the rapid expansion of expedition-style cruising, Alaskan voyages are becoming increasingly popular for those seeking remote, nature-rich adventures.

Caution before heading to the USA

While travel to the United States remains popular among Australians, Ball advises that travellers should remain mindful of potential complications when heading stateside.

“Aussies visiting the USA should be particularly aware of the potential costs they could face while abroad,” Ball says. “The U.S. healthcare system is among the most expensive in the world. Even minor medical treatments can carry unexpectedly high fees, and hospital stays can quickly become financially overwhelming. That’s why comprehensive travel insurance is essential to buy before you go.”

Ball also highlights increased scrutiny, with the USA implementing more rigorous enforcement of border security and visa eligibility. Those entering should double-check their eligibility, be transparent about their travel history, and prepare thoroughly before departure.

“While Australians can visit the U.S. for up to 90 days under the ESTA visa waiver program, it’s critical to ensure your travel history doesn’t include any restricted countries. Make sure that all your documentation- from proof of return travel to accommodation details – are complete and accurate. Even minor inconsistencies can lead to you being denied entry at the border,” she warns.

It’s also important to understand that travel insurance won’t usually cover you for visa-related issues.

“If you’re denied entry due to incorrect documentation or ineligibility, your travel insurance won’t cover the costs,” Ball notes. “We strongly recommend triple-checking your eligibility before departure. A bit of preparation can save a lot of trouble.”