This paper by Fred Argy discusses the impact of John Howard’s WorkChoices and welfare-to-work agenda on workforce participation, productivity, equality, personal freedom and self-reliance – values highly prized by Australians. It then outlines an alternative… more
New Matilda policy portal archive
Longer term national interests in foreign, defence and security policy demand a more informed public debate
With the Government returned to power and the Opposition under new leadership it is time for a more informed and constructive debate about the future directions of our foreign, defence and security policies – something… more
Dental as anything
The constituency for dental health may have a weak bite, but recently its voice has become stronger. Stephen Leeder and Amanda Dominello outline the steps needed to fill the cavity… more
Qantas sale: flying blind into turbulent times
The threat of climate change and the sale of Qantas have sat cheek-by-jowl on the business pages in recent weeks – but no one has spotted the link between the… more
When leaving home means being abandoned
Much has been written about the apparent failure of child protection authorities to rescue children from situations of significant abuse or neglect, or to protect the rights of children who are living in substitute care… more
Breaking the Commonwealth/State Impasse in Health: a coalition of the willing
John Menadue proposes a coalition of the willing to reform the delivery of health services by Federal and State governments.
Snapshots
Talkin' bout a revolution: the future of education
Editorial: ideas for a complex world
After years of privatising and commodifying public assets and services, many governments are starting to look like they've shrunk in the wash (and faded in the spin cycle). The Policy Portal is dedicated to exploring… more
DISCUSSION PAPER: Do unions have a future?
In this discussion paper Max Ogden outlines the valuable role unions can play in improving business management and productivity, and argues that any strategy for reviving Australia’s union movement needs to include plans to expand… more