Public Policy
Government: When enough is enough
The size of government in Australia is no bigger than average but some fear the nanny state is taking over, say University of Melbourne experts
Knowing the value, but not the cost
Australia's ongoing debate over how to sustainably fund higher education has focused on who should pay and how much without anyone knowing the cost of a degree.
Red Book, Blue Book – How do elections impact on policy?
A former senior civil servant who has served under 5 prime ministers and 9 cabinet ministers provides insights into the impact of elections on public policy.
Looking beyond elections for good policy
Frustrations over short-term policy making is easily blamed on election cycles, but democracy may be part of the solution say University of Melbourne experts.
Policy-making (mis)using the brain
Neuroscience has been used as justification for particular policy initiatives. But in some cases the science was misused.
Putting the chicken before the eggs
The proposed rules for limits in the number of hens per metre allowed in free range egg farms work to make us feel better, rather than ensure animal welfare.
Flexible families = workplace equality
Here are five key ideas that could have a positive effect on equalising gender relations and improving the status of families.
Costing us dearly: The toll of austerity policy on public health
Sociologist David Stuckler argues that austerity policies imposed by national governments in response to economic crises serve to worsen public health.
How research can improve outcomes
The 2016 Disability, Human Rights and Social Equity Conference, hosted by the Melbourne Social Equity Institute at the University of Melbourne.
Whatever happened to the ozone hole?
Atmospheric scientists David Karoly and Robyn Schofield discuss the ozone hole over the Antarctic, and what effect timely action has had in reversing it.