Morrison’s ‘new deal’ for a post-COVID normal

The Prime Minister has borrowed language from Franklin Roosevelt to describe his pathway out of the pandemic but his ‘New Deal’ may leave some people behind.

Crisis? What crisis?

James Callaghan was an underrated British prime minister, and in a new biography, Hickson and Miles present a compelling psychological portrait of a fervent political operator who rose from humble circumstances to the highest office in the land.

Adventures in the grey zone

Australian policy should understand and address the drivers of competition in the “grey zone” of hostile activities undertaken by foreign states around the world.

Gender politics – Navigating political leadership in Australia

A new collection of essays examines the difficulties faced by female politicians in this country.

A different fortress Australia

While Australians debate ongoing border closures and the concept of a ‘hermit’ nation, another version of fortress Australia has been simmering behind the scenes.

Contrasting budgets in Australia and New Zealand

On the surface there are similarities between the recent budgets in Australia and New Zealand, but differences emerge in how the budgets are framed and what they try to deliver.

The post-election reckoning ahead

The Coalition ditched its mantra of ‘fiscal responsibility’ during the pandemic, but a financial reckoning may be on the horizon – as soon as the next federal election is won.

Frydenberg shakes the money tree

In addition to the boosts to women and aged care, many individuals and businesses will be scrutinising the budget for what it says about opening Australia back to the world when the pandemic ebbs.

3 budget priorities

The federal government should focus on specific measures that will boost employment and stimulate growth and productivity, says UNSW Business School’s Gigi Foster.

A big spending budget ahead

Low inflation and interest rates as well as booming mining royalties give the Morrison government scope to ignore the “deficit daleks” in the next Federal budget.

Remembering Andrew Peacock

Andrew Peacock, one of Australia’s most urbane politicians, has died in the USA at the age of 82.

The black hole of public inquiries

Public inquiries are often set up to kick difficult issues into touch and their conclusions are ignored when they are finally delivered.