Weekly roundup Saturday 7 May
Is the housing bubble finally deflating?
Weekly roundup of links to articles, reports, podcasts and other media on current political and economic issues in public policy.
Economic basics – productivity and structural change
Three segments, all to do with the reasons for inflation, interest rate shocks, and wage stagnation, with the common thread of falling productivity and the Coalition’s neglect of economic reform and structural change.
Economics – fiscal policies and taxation
The Coalition’s claim to economic competence analysed. Observations on the Chalmers-Frydenberg debate – there are policy differences if you look hard enough. Hewson endorses Albanese’s credentials in labour relations.
Other election issues
Labor’s launch – back to traditional themes. Albanese on Q+A, explaining the principles underpinning Labor policies. The parties’ integrity commission offerings and why an integrity commission is not a kangaroo court as some buffoons assert. Press freedom – we’ve slipped, but are still doing better than North Korea. Why electricity prices will rise under a Labor government. Polls and rumours of polls. Weird but possible election outcomes.
Housing
At last prices may be falling – good news for most, but some will find it tough.
Public ideas that will endure after May 21
Barry Jones on Liberty, Fraternity and – what was the other word? Fred Chaney on democracy in Australia.
That bloody pandemic
No, it hasn’t gone away, and Peter Doherty has some good public health and personal health advice.
Webinars, podcasts and readings
Stuff to read, watch, or listen to while you wait for May 21.
The enemy within
If you have feasted yourself on this selection, Australian websites with regular comment and analysis on economic and political developments include The Australia Institute,The Conversation, The Grattan Institute, Inside Story, The Lowy Institute, Michael West Media, Open Forum, Pearls and Irritations.
If you have comments, corrections, or links to other relevant sources, I’d like to hear from you. Please send them to Ian McAuley — ian, at the domain name ianmcauley.com
