This post provides background information about the history and purpose of Ministerial Councils which have just undergone reform at the lastest COAG meeting in February. The establishment of 23 new Ministerial Councils is welcomed by COAG, enabling it to 'focus on reforms of national critical importance' with greater responsiveness and agility.

The issue of parliamentary salaries, allowances and entitlements generates public discussion and attracts media opinion. This background note provides relevant data, hyperlinks and documents on the remuneration of Australian federal parliamentarians. Please note that this background note is not a discussion of the history and development of entitlements policy. Nor does it argue the merits...

This Sustainable Population Strategy outlines the Government's framework for a sustainable Australia. It will help to ensure that future population change is compatible with the economic, environmental and social wellbeing of Australia.

The Victorian Pulse Disease Guide provides information on disease management and the disease resistant ratings for pulse crops.

The third annual report outlines the progress that has been made towards meeting the targets set to close the gap in life expectancy, early childhood, health, education and employment between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. The most positive change has been in the area of child mortality where the gap has significantly narrowed in recent years...