This report explores the case for, and ways to promote, effective place-based governance and local democracy as vital elements of Australia’s federal system. It is in response to trends such as declining levels of trust in governments and politicians, the inability of ‘big government’ to deal with issues such as climate change and rapid metropolitan...

This publication explains the rationale behind localism and responds to commonly heard objections. It explains how unusual New Zealand's centralism is when compared internationally. New Zealand's councils have limited fiscal autonomy. Their mandate is also much more restricted that local government in other parts of the world.

The policy initiatives outlined in this document will provide every council and federal member with the opportunity to deliver tangible outcomes to every community in Australia.

These guidelines will help councils with their compliance, monitoring and enforcement (CME) responsibilities under the Resource Management Act.

This independent report on the economic situation on Norfolk Island, following the Australian Government takeover of governance of the island last year, warns the island’s economy is heading for disaster as a result of spiralling costs and inappropriate regulation.