For months, Jim Chalmers has been trying to write a budget about the future – productivity, reform, repair.

But events have a way of dragging budgets back into the present. And right now, the present looks expensive.

People are still under pressure. The economy’s been hit by another oil shock. And the Treasurer is trying to make the case for restraint without looking like he’s asking Australians to wear even more pain.

So will Jim Chalmer's upcoming budget be one of reform - or crisis management?

Today, senior economics correspondent for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, Shane Wright, on what kind of budget this moment demands.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

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Guest: Senior economics correspondent for The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald, Shane Wright.

Photo: AAP Image/Lukas Coch

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Readers and writers have been left reeling after a horror novel became the first book to be cancelled over AI claims.

The New York Times has reported that an AI detection program indicated that ‘Shy Girl’ was 71 percent AI generated.

The news has shocked the publishing industry, with the novel discontinued in the UK and pulled from publication in America.

So what are the implications for writers, for readers and for the publishing industry as AI seeps into new and frightening corners of our creative industries?

Today, beloved Aussie author Kathy Lette on how AI slop is threatening the future of young writers, and how to protect our art from the onslaught of bots.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

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Guest: Author Kathy Lette

Photo: AAP Image/Mick Tsikas

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Donald Trump says Cuba's next.

For decades, the United States has tried to isolate the country, but now the language is getting stronger, and a tightening of the oil blockade has brought the island to its knees.

President Trump has said taking the country would be an "honour", and his Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, says Cuba cannot fix its economy without changing its government.

In Havana, officials are now preparing for the possibility of a U.S. attack.

Today, Havana-based journalist Ruaridh Nicoll, on what people inside Cuba are living through – and fearing might come next.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

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Guest: Havana-based journalist Ruaridh Nicoll.

Photo: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

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