America v America

A new book, The Forever War, argues that America’s extreme polarisation has been 250 years in the making as the roots of its modern-day malaise can be found in its troubled and unresolved past.

McKinnon Prize shortlist reflects the changing face of Australian politics

The McKinnon Prize, an independent and non-partisan award for outstanding political leadership, has announced the shortlist for its annual awards, with a diverse range of political figures put forward for the award.

Union sundown

The Falepili Union and previous flexible sovereignty arrangements show potential for innovation even as the Pacific faces serious and complex challenges, originating from both within and outside the region.

Will Labor’s slide continue into 2024?

In less than two years, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has gone from clear choice to fighting for majority support in the polls. What happened and will he fight back next year?

Fear, uncertainty and doubt

Politics is a people business, and appealing to emotions – or ignorance – can be more effective than rational, fact based campaigns.

Does politics let down the people?

While Australians remain strong supporters of democracy, criticisms of the political system which delivers and administers it continue to mount, so what are the problems and what can be done to solve them?

The rise and fall of the neoliberal order

A new book by Gary Gerstle examines the development of American policy from the New Deal through neo-liberalism and explores the prospects for an uncertain future.

Aston loss piles pressure on Dutton

Labor’s triumph in the Aston by-election is the first time in a century that a government has gained a seat at a federal byelection, and increases the pressure on Peter Dutton’s Liberal leadership.

Better politics requires better reporting

If politics really is to be done differently, as Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has promised, then the way politics is reported will need to be done differently too.

Forward together

Anthony Albanese is poised to become Australia’s 31st prime minister, and he laid out his vision for his incoming administration in his victory speech on election night in his constituency.

Remembering Andrew Peacock

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

Apathy – Why?

The current government sets its sights no higher than remaining in office after the next election, but Australia needs a more fundamental rethink of its political system and policies.