Colin Steele’s Top 10: Inequality, Egalitarianism and Andrew Leigh’s *Battlers and Billionaires*

This episode delves into Andrew Leigh’s *Battlers and Billionaires: The Story of Inequality in Australia*, exploring the widening gap between rich and poor and its implications for Australian society. The conversation traverses themes of egalitarianism, housing affordability, education, union movements, family structures and the cultural values that underpin fairness. Leigh’s data-driven approach is balanced with historical anecdotes and reflections on what makes Australia unique in its pursuit of a “fair go.”

Colin Steele highlights Leigh’s intellectual rigour and ability to translate complex economic ideas into accessible narratives. Together with Lin Hatfield Dodds, the discussion examines why inequality matters—not only for fairness but for social cohesion, political integrity and opportunity. This episode offers a compelling lens for readers, researchers and citizens concerned with the forces shaping contemporary Australia and the enduring quest for equity.