Democracy & Accountability
Serving on a citizens’ jury taught me the value of politicians
Politics cannot be fixed by removing the politicians. Instead, Australians could ask more of the politicians they do elect and participate fully in civic life – protesting, joining political parties or community groups, running for office themselves and lobbying local members.
Public reject 'cash for access' to politicians: new polling
New polling has revealed that most Australians think politicians’ secret cash-for-access payments are corrupt.
Sophie Scamps: Ministerial 'turf wars' are stalling critical policy reforms
Independent Member for Mackellar, Dr Sophie Scamps has blamed 'ministerial turf wars' for stalling critical reforms, warning the gap between departments is where “sensible reform proposals go to die”.
PM Albanese’s culture of secrecy, in three charts
If he doesn’t change course, the Prime Minister may end up leading exactly the kind of 'shadow government' that he derided his predecessor for.
Government’s thin excuse for FOI changes gives win to eSafety Commission foes
The faltering case for FOI restrictions is part of a broader pattern. The Albanese Government lacks confidence to develop and prosecute a reform agenda.
The Federal Government spends more on shredders than FOI training
The Federal Government has spent $2.3 million on shredders over the last five years, almost double the $1.3 million spent on freedom of information training over the same period.
Factcheck: Are Freedom of Information requests truly out of control, like the Government claims?
There have been allegations that “foreign actors, foreign powers, [and] criminal gangs” may be behind FOI requests. Is this the case?
