The well-known electoral pendulum lists seats according to the swing needed for each seat to change hands on either sides of the pendulum. Unfortunately, electoral swings are not necessarily uniform across seats and the pendulum is not a necessarily reliable predictor of election outcomes in particular seats. In this research note Gerard Newman attempts to...

The Brotherhood of St Laurence is calling on political parties to make the forthcoming election the occasion for a break with the narrow economic perspectives of the last two decades. This document outlines elements of a new social policy architecture: social investment, inclusion and democratic governance. It includes recommendations for changes in key policy areas...

Government advertising is a contentious issue in modern democracies. In Australia, both Commonwealth and state governments are entitled to taxpayer money to provide the public with information about their programs. This is allowed for under the Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918. Richard Grant provides figures on expenditure since 1991 and examines proposals for reform.

Australia's 24th Governor-General was sworn in on 11 August 2003. This Research Note looks at questions that are frequently asked about the office of Governor-General, including the selection, appointment, dismissal, tenure and powers and functions of the Governor-General.

This Research Paper explains how the Commonwealth determines the level and distribution of financial assistance it provides to local government and examines some key issues in the provision of assistance.