Person
Joshua Black
External Profile:
Discussion paper
Declining legacy media influence on Australian elections
This paper explores the declining influence of media endorsements and leaders' debates on election outcomes. It finds that the opinions and endorsements published by Australia’s major media outlets now have little influence over how Australians actually vote. The paper proposes that governments should no longer fear retribution from media organisations opposed to important reforms.
Discussion paper
Forming power sharing government
An analysis of 25 power sharing parliaments in Australia outlines what crossbencher MPs might demand in exchange for their support and what can be expected of the power sharing parliament that results. It finds that typical areas of negotiation are parliamentary reform, policy reform, more staff and resources and ministerial or presiding officer positions for...
Discussion paper
Elective spending at Australian universities
This paper reports that universities spend substantial sums on consultants, advertising, and travel. It argues that reducing these expenses could have prevented the cuts that some of these universities have made to their staff and courses in recent years.
Briefing paper
Media coverage of AEMO’s Gas Statement of Opportunities
Interpretation of AEMO’s annual Gas Statement of Opportunities misses one crucial fact: Australia has an abundance of gas. This article suggests that the gas industry knows it can rely on certain media supporters to help perpetuate its claim that Australia doesn't have enough gas, while selling 80% of Australia’s gas overseas.
Discussion paper
Electoral Reform Bill analysis
Proposed changes to Australian electoral law would make elections less fair and substantially more expensive, according to this analysis of the Electoral Reform Bill. This paper finds that the Bill, which includes measures such as capping political spending and increasing transparency around donations, would disproportionately benefit established parties.