The independent Expert Panel on Constitutional Recognition of Local Government was appointed in August 2011 by the Australian Government. The Panel was tasked with consulting the community on whether Australia's Constitution should be changed to include local government. The Panel consulted nationally and considered feedback it received from Australians before handing its report to Government...

This paper examines how and why intoxicated persons continue to be able to access more alcohol. It is well documented that alcohol intoxication is a major contributing factor in incidents of aggression and violence. When factors such as health, policing costs and lost productivity are considered, it is estimated that alcohol costs the Australian economy...

This paper reports on a study of a suburb in Canberra that has experienced significant redevelopment of houses in the last eight years. It finds that, despite the majority planners, architects, building designers and residents expressing a desire to achieve a more environmentally efficient outcome, very few houses achieved this ambition.

A discussion of issues relevant to the Independent Broad-based Anti-corruption Commission Bill 2011. The paper includes background information on the definition, effects and control of corruption, as well as the history of Victoria’s integrity system. The paper also includes an overview of the main provisions of the Bill, and an overview of the history and...

This Senate report reviews new amendments to taxation laws and recommends that they be passed. The Tax Laws Amendment (2011 Measures No. 8) Bill 2011 and the Pay As You Go Withholding Non-compliance Tax Bill 2011 were introduced by the Government into the House of Representatives on 13 October 2011. On 3 November 2011, the...