Introduction: The Childcare and Early Childhood Learning inquiry terms of reference require the Commission to assess the contribution that access to affordable, quality childcare can make to child development and increased participation in the workforce. The Commission has been requested to consider new policy options within the current government funding parameters. In addressing its task...

This report presents the Productivity Commission's views on the costs and benefits of industry-specific assistance to the automotive manufacturing industry, in light of the structural change that will occur over the next few years as Ford, Holden and Toyota close their motor vehicle manufacturing plants in Australia. Key points: Australia's automotive manufacturing industry is undergoing...

The Productivity Commission is seeking submissions on this draft report for an inquiry seeking to make childcare and early childhood learning more affordable, flexible and accessible. Key points Formal and informal Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) services play a vital role in the development of Australian children and their preparation for school, and in...

There is an urgent need to comprehensively overhaul processes for assessing and developing public infrastructure projects, argues this report.

This review contains the Productivity Commission's latest quantitative estimates of Australian Government assistance to industry. draws attention to areas of government intervention that could be impeding economic growth identifies recent developments in industry assistance and international trade policy includes a chapter on the industry assistance aspects of defence procurement. Key points: Government assistance to industry...