Media Centre

The text explores the financial and tactical advantages of aligned interests in left-wing politics, highlighting the imbalance in funding between the political left and right in Australia. It delves into the influence of unions, GetUp, environmentalists, and industry super funds in shaping political campaigns and policy decisions.

The Fair Go campaign aims to address the imbalance in Australian democracy by providing a platform for liberal and conservative viewpoints, inspired by Robert Menzies' vision of fairness and justice. The Liberal Party's initiative seeks to counter the influence of well-funded groups like unions and GetUp! in shaping public discourse and policy decisions.

The text discusses the impact of Investor State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) clauses on trade agreements, highlighting the need for a balanced evaluation and improvement rather than using ISDS as an excuse for protectionism. It emphasises the benefits of ISDS in supporting the rule of law, protecting investments, and promoting foreign investment, while addressing concerns about sovereignty and transparency in the legal processes.

Australia must make choices between good and bad policies, with the Senate playing a crucial role in decision-making. Urgent action is needed to address challenges such as taxation, government efficiency, and foreign investment to secure the country's economic future.

Australia must stay committed to free trade, as it fuels jobs, families, and the economy. Despite Trump's actions, trade creates better lives, more options, and increased opportunities for Australia.

Queensland's new legislation grants monopoly status to government-owned super funds, hindering competition and favouring protectionism, going against the trend of pro-competition policies. This move risks economic growth and the country's credit rating, highlighting the need for better competition policies in Australia.

In 2016, Australia must address economic reform through a tax reform election to boost the economy by $25 billion by increasing female workforce participation. Cultural change is essential to enable women to reach their full potential and contribute significantly to economic prosperity.

Australia's tax system needs a global perspective for competitiveness in the Asian century. Lowering the company tax rate is crucial for attracting investment and creating jobs in a mobile economy.

Superannuation in Australia lacks clear objectives, hindering its efficiency as a policy response to an ageing population. Defining its purpose, such as ensuring higher retirement incomes than the age pension and reducing public sector costs, is crucial for effective long-term planning.