Archived publication for 2009 in Occasional Paper
Recent publications
Does fiscal stimulus work? What Nobel Price winners say
We have been told that ‘you don't need a PhD in economics' to understand why fiscal stimulus packages increase economic activity. Senior government ministers, the Treasury, a host of business economists, and a legion of journalists - amongst...
Five and a half big things Kevin Rudd doesn't understand about the Australian economy
Five and a half big things Kevin Rudd doesn't understand about the Australian economy
Gambling in a Free Society
Presentation to the RSL & Services Clubs National Conference 27 July, 2009 By Richard Allsop Gambling is a pastime that has brought pleasure to free citizens through most of recorded history. I say to free citizens because it is a striking...
A Real Education Revolution: Options for voucher funding reform
This paper examines key aspects of potential voucher reforms for the Australian school system. The next section will discuss some of the basic mechanics of voucher funding schemes. Some potential voucher options, and their budgetary cost to...
Over-ruled: How excessive regulation and legislation is holding back Western Australia
Western Australia has developed a reputation as the most over-regulated Australian state. Past Western Australian governments have been reluctant to introduce the basic regulatory review processes found in other states. While the Barnett...
Are retail sales well above expectations?
State Finances at the Crossroads: The states' budget problem and what to do about it
The economic and fiscal performance of the states has a significant impact on Australia's economic fortunes now and in the future. With taxing, spending and financial management policies and strategies at its disposal, state activities have a...
The great lock out: the impact of housing and land regulations in Western Australia
Government interventions in the housing market restrict the supply of land for housing and raise its costs. The public policy interventions in land supply and development markets are numerous. Centred on planning and environmental policies, they...
Should Australian Taxpayers Lodge Annual Tax-Returns?
One of the issues canvassed in the Australia's Future Tax System Consultation paper is potential simplification of tax administration. But simplification of the tax system itself must preceded simplification of tax administration. The direct costs...
A delinked and non-compliant Emissions Trading Scheme
Why Australia's ETS won't be linked to an international ETS and why it will be inconsistent with our WTO and FTA obligations