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August 12, 2014
It is now pretty clear that the Abbott Government, in turning away from the public service, has contracted out its public policy to the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA) and the Business Council of Australia (BCA) turned away from the public service and that the task of the Abbott Government is to implement the recommended policies. When Hockey refers to the federal government having an overarching plan that will balance the books and avoid a fiscal crisis he means the outsourced plans.
The economy i is being managed for our benefit for the benefit of the big businesses that dominate it. Increasing inequality is the consequence, and people are acutely aware that the 2014 Hockey Budget is designed to increase this inequality. They are seen to be seeking to reduce income support provided to the lowest income earners in Australia.
David Rowe
As the economy transitions away from its reliance on resources projects the Abbott Government is seen to have little interest in reduce inequality, as it moves to unwind both welfare provisions and the progressive nature of our tax system. Senior ministers imply that inequality (including gender inequality) is not just unavoidable, but also beneficial.
They are seeking to exacerbate it (both income and wealth) rather than lessen it because their position is that greater inequality boosts productivity and economic growth. Hence their unpopularity--the electorate is sold that Australia requires greater inequality to ensure economic growth and prosperity.
However, in the political short term, with the LNP both lacking the Senate majority it needs to pass the budget, and the skills for good negotiating, compromising, and dealing in order to get policy through, it is in Clive Palmer’s political interests for the 2014 budget deadlock to continue, and a sense of chaos to envelop the government.
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"lacking ....the skills for good negotiating, compromising, and dealing in order to get policy through"
Joe Hockey is all bluster and bluff---his response to the budget gridlock is to threaten even more draconian measures.