This paper sets out a plan for addressing the strategic reform of the international financial institutions in a feasible manner, with a focus on the appropriate forum and process for taking forward particular issues. The paper begins with a taxonomy of reform issues. It then provides an outline of why reforms are necessary so as...

This edition of the Economic Roundup contains the following articles in PDF and RTF formats: * Fiscal Sustainabiltiy and Prefunding * Health Promotion * Net tax thresholds for Australian families * Tax system complexity and compliance costs - some theoretical considerations * Key themes from the Treasury Business Liaison Programme - July and August 2005...

This paper examines how distance and economic size influence the level of international trade. Parameters for an international gravity trade model are estimated and used to calculate annual expected aggregate trade for Australia over the last 20 years. This model also includes a new indicator of economic remoteness that statistically identifies each country's distance from...

THE Intergenerational Report, released in the 2002-03 Federal Budget, is another sleight of hand. It claims to be about ageing and a blow out in health costs. But a closer look reveals that it identifies only a blow out in pharmaceutical costs. Moreover, the report itself reiterates the views that moderate and respected commentators have...

This is Australia’s first Intergenerational Report. The report provides a basis for considering the Commonwealth’s fiscal outlook over the long term, and identifying emerging issues associated with an ageing population. Overview This report focuses on Commonwealth programmes in health, social safety net payments and education, as these are most sensitive to population factors, economic trends...