NB The full compilation of this series was launched on 26 June 2014, called "False economies: unpacking public service efficiency" and available here > • Every Australian needs to understand what politicians mean when they talk about the ‘efficiency’ of government . Why should we care? Because this is our money, being spent on us...

In light of sweeping changes to vocational education and training (VET) provision in Victoria, and dramatic proposed cuts in Queensland, this new CPD paper studies the sector’s social and economic significance and asks what lessons can be gleaned for NSW. The paper presents definitive evidence that: Substantial benefits from VET accrue to individuals, the economy...

In the context of rising global demand, resource scarcity, and environmental pressures, this report considers the future of Australian agriculture. Global populations are growing and food prices are skyrocketing. This creates new market opportunities for Australian agriculture. But Australia has fragile and vulnerable soils, which are being degraded at an unsustainable rate.

This report looks at the proven benefits of marine parks for fish stocks (and therefore for the fishing industry), and estimates the value of ecosystem services provided by areas to be covered by the new marine parks. It also puts the modest and short-term economic impacts of the new marine reserves on the fishing industry...

This report presents a comprehensive analysis of the UK's 'Big Society' policies and programs and examines their potential impact if adopted and implemented in Australia. It’s just over two years since David Cameron was elected as British Prime Minister. Since his election, Cameron’s ‘Big Society’ policies that have ‘redefined the role of the state’. By...