This document traces the long running debates and numerous proposals and government reviews going back over 50 years concerning the need for and possible locations of a second major airport to serve Sydney.

Australia's 24th Governor-General was sworn in on 11 August 2003. This Research Note looks at questions that are frequently asked about the office of Governor-General, including the selection, appointment, dismissal, tenure and powers and functions of the Governor-General.

This chronology outlines the history of radioactive waste management in Australia. It documents the drawn-out policy processes associated with the management of Australia's small amount of radioactive waste material. It also outlines some of the key stages in the process of replacing Australia's only nuclear reactor - the research reactor at Lucas Heights near Sydney...

The uncertainty about North Korean nuclear ambitions have spurred consideration of whether Australia should consider the development of ballistic missile defences. This Research Note presents the details of current developments as well as some of the concerns associated with the missile defence program.

This Research Paper explains how the Commonwealth determines the level and distribution of financial assistance it provides to local government and examines some key issues in the provision of assistance.