The New Zealand Productivity Commission has completed its inquiry into the economic contribution of New Zealand’s most productive 'frontier' firms, and presented this final report with recommendations to government.

Australia’s economy, like that of almost all other rich countries, is increasingly dominated by its service sector. This paper sheds light on the evolution of the services sector in Australia, busts some common misconceptions about services, and highlights the challenges associated with services productivity measurement and growth.

This report provides a detailed analysis of how Australian employers have experienced and adapted to COVID-19. Between May to October 2020, the research team interviewed 32 leaders, managers and officers at 28 organisations across Australia. Many surveys on COVID-19 in 2020 focused on worker preferences. This study uniquely focuses on the employer response.

The report argues for a much higher minimum wage to help reduce inequality and lift productivity. This is despite the fact that the minimum wage was already increased from $17.70 to $18.90 in April of this year. In particular, the report recommends a “living wage” of $22.10 per hour.

The report discusses some key influences on Australian people’s mental health, examines the effect of mental health on people’s ability to participate and prosper in the community and workplace, and implications more generally for the economy and productivity. It makes recommendations to the Australian and State and Territory Governments, to improve the mental health of...