At a time when neoliberal and conservative politics are in the ascendency in Australia, and social democracy is suffering, "Australian Public Policy" makes a powerful case for the values and goals of progressive public policy. It brings together leading figures from the academic and the policy worlds to explore economic, environmental, social, cultural, and indigenous rights issues, and it offers valuable insights into the goals and practicality of progressive programs that will be of use not just within Australia, but throughout the world.

At a time when neoliberal and conservative politics are in the ascendency in Australia, and social democracy is suffering, "Australian Public Policy" makes a powerful case for the values and goals of progressive public policy. It brings together leading figures from the academic and the policy worlds to explore economic, environmental, social, cultural, and indigenous rights issues, and it offers valuable insights into the goals and practicality of progressive programs that will be of use not just within Australia, but throughout the world.

'A brilliant critical and fresh look at the public choice school of thought.' - Paul Streeten This book challenges theories of public goods, public enterprise and public choice on three fronts. Government action reflects wider interests and commitments than just the material self-interest assumed as primary by the three theories. Government contributes to the productivity and quality of the modern mixed economy in ways not captured by theories stressing the inherent superiority of private markets. Lastly, old and new ideas within established traditions of political thought justify government...