In this compelling episode, Melanie Nelson interviews Jane Kelsey, a leading critic of New Zealand's neoliberal reforms and an expert in global economic governance. They explore the far-reaching implications of the proposed Regulatory Standards Bill—a piece of legislation that threatens to reshape New Zealand’s democratic processes, environmental protections, and social safeguards.

Jane traces the bill’s libertarian roots, linking it to decades of neoliberal policy-making in New Zealand, including Rogernomics and Ruthanasia, and drawing parallels with international deregulation failures like the Grenfell Tower fire in the UK. She explains how the bill’s proposed mechanisms, such as the Regulatory Standards Board and regulatory takings provisions, could entrench corporate control, restrict government action, and undermine democratic accountability.

The conversation highlights the constitutional risks of embedding constitutional economic principles that exclude key protections like te Tiriti o Waitangi and the New Zealand Bill of Rights, raising serious concerns about the future of lawmaking and public accountability in Aotearoa.

Jane also offers practical advice on how New Zealanders can respond. She urges individuals to share personal stories of past regulatory failures, such as leaky homes or finance company collapses, to illustrate the real-world impact of weakened regulation. Experts and advocacy groups are encouraged to submit detailed critiques before the consultation closes on January 13.

Tune in to understand what’s at stake, why it matters, and how you can take action to help shape New Zealand’s future.