The GFC and the necessity of the stimulus package meant the Labor government has been unable to clear the slate of its predecessor, with disastrous long-term consequences, writes Lindy Edwards.
The Federal Government's announcement of a referendum on recognition of local councils in the constitution is a sensible one, but that is not enough to guarantee success, write Nicola McGarrity and Lyndon Goddard.
Carbon dioxide levels have risen above 400 parts-per-million, but geoengineering is no alternative to reducing emissions, writes Professor Steve Sherwood.
The role of local government has expanded over the last century, assuming greater responsibilities in service-delivery. In light of this, formal recognition in the Constitution is seen by many as a must, writes Shipra Chordia.
There exist several barriers that prevent women from taking senior leadership posts in arts organisations, and the most significant is child-rearing, writes Joanna Mendelssohn.
Hancock Prospecting's financial reporting practices are questionable, but what is more disconcerting is how little ASIC does to enforce the reporting requirements of the Corporations Act, writes Jeffrey Knapp.
With China investing massive amounts in universities, it's vital for the federal government to make hard policy decisions to ensure our system can be truly globally competitive, writes Professor Iain Martin.
Recognition of local government in the Australian Constitution can ensure that direct federal funding for local community infrastructure and services continues, writes George Williams.
Police increasingly recognise the benefits of social media, often bypassing traditional media in breaking news. But they should think carefully about how they engage, writes Alyce McGovern.
