In debt to the future

Australia’s $300 billion coronavirus deficit has been called ‘eye-watering’ and may take decades to pay back, but who exactly is Australia in debt to?

Don’t underestimate Australia-US trade relations

The idea that Australia faces a tension between its security alliance with the United States and its economic relationship with China overlooks the importance of its economic relationship with the United States.

The economics of COVID-19

Policymakers need a new roadmap for navigating the balance between managing a pandemic and supporting the economy, and setting criteria and targets for action can help.

The road to recovery

Even as Victoria confronts a six-week shutdown in response to emerging coronavirus cases, other states are reopening. Policy responses must reflect the needs of the most vulnerable, say UNSW Business School’s Leisa Sargent and John Piggott.

A universal basic income might get us through the Covid recession

A universal basic income could help the economy recover after COVID-19, remove the work disincentives current benefits create and improve equity and social cohesion.

Putting workers first?

The focus on economic recovery will be an opportunity for unions and employers to initiate major change in industrial relations.

6 ways to bring back the Australian economy

The government faces a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to rebuild and reshape Australia’s economy for the better as the nation recovers from the COVID-19 lockdown.

Time for a new union accord?

Can the PM take a leaf from Bill Kelty’s book on industrial relations reform and bring the trade union movement together through social solidarity?

Whither Australia-China trade?

The Australia-China trade relationship is currently under significant strain.  In the long run, increased protectionism would not improve Australia’s economic welfare. 

Take the trade dispute with a grain of barley

When Australian trade with China is disrupted, commentary quickly gravitates towards the frame of economic coercion. With such deeply intertwined trade relations, coercion is, in reality, only one possible cause.

The young Australian workers hit hard by COVID-19

For governments and policy makers, COVID-19 is a chance to address the existing problems for younger Australian workers as youth unemployment looks set to peak.

The world’s not your oyster any more

After months of lockdown, it’s no surprise that people are itching to get out and about, but with border closures still in operation, it’s hard to know what to expect.