Disappointment is changing to anger as I read about wasted expenditures by our governments (state and federal).   Misdirected spending by the Defence Department is an excellent example of federal government waste, with poor strategic choices, lack of cost control and many purchases of equipment not fit for purpose.   The Victorian government's program of transport initiatives is another example of poor strategic decision-making and cost control. To hear the new Premier claim electoral endorsement was given to the unaffordable rail loop project and that cost blowouts were just increased investments makes my blood boil.   It is our money being wasted.

In Alaska, whale watching is a major tourist attraction. There are over 20 tourist boats in Juneau alone. Humpback whales are protected by the Marine Mammal Protection Act.The federal regulation insures that whales are protected from injury, killing, hunting capturing or harassment. Vessels cannot approach whales within 100 yards or place themselves in the whale path causing the whales to surface within 100 yards of vessel.Captains must use a radio to coordinate other boaters and take turns viewing the whales as to not disturb them.Tourist companies are requested to educate passengers in regard to these regulations.

Recent political and business events remind us that all leaders – be they in government or business – should embrace and practice the Hayne Royal Commission’s six fundamentals: 1. Obey the law 2. Do not mislead or deceive 3. Act fairly 4. Provide services that are fit for purpose 5. Deliver services with reasonable care and skill 6. When acting for another, act in the best interests of that other.  

Multinationals are particularly successful in tax avoidance. A crucial step in addressing tax avoidance is to strip away the secre

The recent Labor conference passed a motion to establish an independent Australian Constitutional Commission to advocate for electoral reforms in our parliament. Our democracy needs more than this if it is to flourish.   We need a permanent body – a Constitutional Council or Commission – whose role is to promote the understanding of our constitution and its importance to our democracy, advocate for needed changes and ensure that the community understands and supports change before the costly referendum process is undertaken. This body should frame the question to be put to the public and the parliament then runs the process.https://www.ideaspies.com/posts/a-way-of-breaking-the-referendum-deadlock

Our current polity and elites fail to deliver a fair and reasonable Australia for generations beyond the Baby Boomers. Politicians focus on power and protection of economic rents (for unions and businesses), stifling the changes that must be made.   If Australia is to create the appropriate environment for future generations to flourish, we need to find a way around the policy inertia that afflicts our governing politicians.   Citizen deliberative forums can sort through the facts and help the community understand common good policy initiatives to take our nation forward. Politicians can then legislate knowing the hard yards have been done!