Thinking Points
Thinking Points
Limited choice has made for a confusing outcome
Australia has voted and the results are still difficult to interpret. Eva Cox, steps back to take a look at what our options as voters really were and what the take home lessons for our political leaders should be if they want an improved campaign and outcome next time. more…
Government Advertising: public interest or party interest?
Suddenly, everyone seems interested in controlling federal government advertising. Kathy MacDermott looks at where the major parties sit in relation to this and the opportunities for reform the current situation provides. Reform to government advertising is part of point 7 … more…
Election promises on boats will not pass parliament
In the lead up to the election, we saw both major parties making policy pledges to stop asylum boats. Kate Guathier looks at the numbers in a hung parliament and considers whether either major party can live up to their election promises. more…
Why A Sustainable Australia Needs Multiculturalism
The debate about a sustainable population for Australia only makes sense if it involves all Australians – as citizens, as producers, and as consumers. So the debate has to make sure everyone feels they have a stake and their input is respected; not only the middle aged, middle class, male and generally, writes Andrew Jakubowicz more…
Dear Julia & Tony: some ideas on governance
Bob Katter, Rob Oakeshott and Tony Windsor have a huge task ahead of them over the next few days – a burden made heavier by the poor level of secretarial support successive government have provided. So we thought we could … more…
What next for the two party system?
The assumptions which underpin the two party system do not reflect contemporary political reality. What particular challenges does this create for policy makers, asks Ian Marsh. This is the second and final in a series of articles on the topic. … more…
