Australia is in the grips of a prison boom with more people behind bars than ever before. According to recent ABS data, Australia’s jail populations soared to 44,400 people last year – quadrupling since the 1980s.

The NT is now the first Australian jurisdiction to see more than 1 percent of its adult population in lock up.

A group of academics from across Australia, claim prisons are not the best solution for community safety or reform.

So, how are prison populations aligning with Australia’s crime rates and what is driving the expansion of jails?

Original story produced by Emma Wotzke for The Wire and featuring Dr Emma Russell Associate Professor of Crime, Justice and Legal Studies at La Trobe University.

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70% of Australians support a ban on gambling ads, but the Australian Government has delayed gambling reform more than a year after political parties recommended government action.

Jon speaks with Martin Thomas, the Alliance for Gambling Reform CEO, about the financial and social costs of gambling.

If you or someone you know is in need of support, please contact the Gambling Helpline 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.

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Research from FARE, the Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education, and The University of Queensland shows how alcohol companies use digital advertising to promote, sell and deliver alcohol.

The Wire’s Jon King speaks with Dr Catherine Earl, Director of Policy & Research for the FARE and Robert Taylor, Policy and Engagement Manager for the Alcohol and Drug Foundation about what the research means for our families, friends and communities.

If you are concerned about your own, or a family or friend’s alcohol use, you can call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.

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