Penalty rates are often cast as a roadblock to business or employment but, research sees penalty rates as a deterrent against employing workers in ways that risk workers’ health.
With attendance at mass continuing to flag, the Catholic bishops’ influence has waned with it.
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The Catholic bishops have exhorted Australians to cast a “vote for the voiceless”, but it is doubtful that their plea will be paid much heed – by politicians or the public.
A review of studies examining the economic impact of refugees in Australia found no evidence they impose a net cost in the long term.
EPA/Dedi Sinuhaji
With the election result almost certain to be close, preferencing will play a key role, leaving the progressive parties in particular in a difficult bind.
In some quarters Peter Dutton’s outburst, which was quickly challenged on points of fact, will resonate politically.
Mick Tsikas/AAP
If Malcolm Turnbull is returned he should tip Peter Dutton out of the immigration portfolio when he chooses his new ministry. Dutton’s Tuesday comments, when targeting the Greens proposal for a big increase…
There has been debate in recent times around placing caps or limits on some forms of political advertising.
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There is increasing evidence that voters have lost their faith in politicians and politics. But the way to restore faith is by implementing policies that make economic and social sense.
It may be the effect of the election but the regulation of banking in Australia appears to be descending into farce. Just last week, maybe in anticipation of adverse events to come, the Australian Financial…
Speaking with: Graeme Orr on the festival of elections
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William Isdale speaks with Graeme Orr about the festival spirit of elections, the unique Australian culture of voting, and the history of corruption, drinking and coercion in voting worldwide.
Malcolm Turnbull and Bill Shorten showed they differ on a number of policy positions, but both kept the tone of the debate civil and free from “gotcha"s and gaffes.
AAP/Mick Tsikas
Sky TV’s people’s forum on the evening of last Friday gave us something refreshingly different from recent federal election campaigns: a civil discourse between the two main political leaders. Perhaps…
Australia’s arrangements with Papua New Guinea and Nauru have not secured sustainable, durable solutions for those asylum seekers found to be refugees.
AAP/Eoin Blackwell
Both major parties support offshore processing and boat turnbacks. But public opinion on asylum seekers is not so clear-cut. And nor are the policy alternatives.
‘Labor leader Bill Shorten was wrong to claim an immediate GDP boost from his party’s education policy.’
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Normally it is the Coalition that is on the defensive over industrial relations at election time, with Labor claiming workers’ rights are under threat from the conservatives. But currently Labor finds…
ACOSS has called for a boost to Newstart payments.
AAP/Julian Smith