Rudd's “new agenda” speech is an attempt to to reach out to key constituencies: marginal voters, the major employer groups, unions, and small business.
Peter Gahan

The Coalition has released its election policy costings just two days before voters go to the polls. Read them all here.

The Liberals claim power prices have gone up 94% under Labor. Is that true? 
Dylan McConnell

Presidential frontrunner 'Jokowi' is urging a "mental revolution" to a more optimistic, self-sustaining, self-believing Indonesia, invoking the language and ideas of the Sukarno era, observes Katharine McGregor.

Image: President Sukarno, Washington DC, 1956.

Are Australians under more financial pressure than they were 10 years ago? 
Roger Wilkins

Energised by a new leader with a formidable mandate, India is about to stir. Australia must reach out to capitalise on the moment, argues Amitabh Mattoo.

Joe Hockey and Kevn Rudd play chicken with the pre-election fiscal outlook.
Wes Mountain

Prabowo is the more worldly traveller, but Jokowi is more vocal on foreign relations. Colin Brown analyses the implications for the wider world of this week's poll.

The Federal Government could save hundreds of millions of dollars each year without affecting patient outcomes
Terence Cheng

When big infrastructure projects are scrutinised, prioritised and chosen on merit, future generations won't curse us for the cost, argues John Freebairn. Image: Dandenong Road tram track construction.

 

History and Henry Bolte could teach today's political leaders a thing or two about catering for a population boom, argues Nicholas Reece. Image: Flagstaff Station, 1978 (Public Record Office Victoria)

Treasurer Chris Bowen and Finance Minister Penny Wong reveal a budget deficit of more than $30 billion. 
Cathy Harper

Declining employment and the looming closure of several international operations means whoever wins the November 29 poll must define a clear vision for Victoria's manufacturing sector, Peter Gahan writes.

Both the ALP and Coalition say the economy is their main priority. But how will they fund their promises? Professor John Freebairn.

Pages