This report explores the potential for social media to support efforts to get out the vote.

This paper explores participatory sensing and issues associated with governance in the light of new information gathering capabilities that directly engage citizens in collecting data and providing contextual insight that has the potential to greatly enhance Council operations. Executive summary Local government (such as the City of Melbourne) is accountable and responsible for establishment, execution...

The Centre for Housing, Urban and Regional Planning (CHURP) has been engaged by the Local Government Association of South Australia (LGASA) to provide Independent Commentary on the reform proposals put forward by the Expert Panel on Planning Reform. The Expert Panel on Planning Reform’s Ideas for Reform report has 27 suggestions on how to create...

In the flurry of post-election book launches, there’s been much analysis of what’s gone wrong with Australian politics. The newDemocracy Foundation argues that it’s not better politicians we need, but a better democracy. Melanie Christiansen investigates their proposal for citizen’s juries. • Campaigning in the September 2013 election which installed him as prime minister, Tony...

There's a growing public disenchantment with democracy and the modern political process. So, here's a solution: citizens’ juries—ordinary people who are given the information and training to make decisions on civic issues. It’s all part of an approach known as deliberative democracy, aiming to build stronger and more useful connections. But, do these measures work...