THE dysfunction in our democracy has been no better exemplified than this week’s publication of two very sound tax policies by the independent public-interest organisation the Grattan Institute. They were on the case for a tax on sugary drinks and an end to tax concessions for people over 65. They come after a Grattan reports earlier this year on capital-gains tax, negative gearing and superannuation. Continue reading “When think tanks shine over democracy”
Month: November 2016
Fairness trumps money in voters’ eyes
THE principle that humans will act “rationally” was part of the bedrock of economics, at least until the 1980s when behavioural psychology started to infiltrate the dismal science. Continue reading “Fairness trumps money in voters’ eyes”
Trump victory shows hate speech should be unlawful
WHEN the parliamentary Human Rights Committee inquires into Section 18C of the Racial Discrimination Act it should recall the quote from President-elect Donald Trump about Mexicans. Continue reading “Trump victory shows hate speech should be unlawful”
Disqualification clause gets its Day in court
TWENTY years ago the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs began inquiring into the section of the Constitution under which two senators are now facing disqualification. Continue reading “Disqualification clause gets its Day in court”