This study represents a first step in establishing a qualitative understanding of the ways in which planning regulation has impacted on housing developments across 15 local jurisdictions in three Australian states. The findings confirm that planning system complexity and ambiguity is associated with significant costs for housing development in Australia. Image: Andrew Scott / flickr

On Monday 7 December 2009 the Coordinator General for Remote Indigenous Services, Mr Brian Gleeson, reported on his first six months, including: the key strengths of the Remote Service Delivery Strategy; what has emerged from visiting all 29 communities over recent months; why Local Implementation Plans will be so important; some of the systemic issues...

This report focuses on the potential impacts of mining upon surficial and groundwater flows and quality in the alluvial flood plains at its headwaters in the Namoi valley and the Darling Downs catchments. The Senate Environment, Communications and the Arts Legislation Committee acknowledges other mining activity conducted in the Murray-Darling Basin (MDB), particularly mineral sand...

The relationship between spirituality, religion and health is an emerging area of research worldwide. Although the available evidence generally supports a positive association between religious beliefs, spirituality and health, the reasons underlying this association are not well understood. This paper explores the role that spirituality plays in social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB) for one group...

At the request of the Queensland Aboriginal and Islander Health Council (QAIHC) and Queensland Indigenous Substance Misuse Council (QISMC), the National Drug Research Institute was commissioned to conduct a review of the alcohol and other drugs sector in Queensland. This report makes 23 recommendations in relation to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Community Controlled...