An analysis of 25 power sharing parliaments in Australia outlines what crossbencher MPs might demand in exchange for their support and what can be expected of the power sharing parliament that results. It finds that typical areas of negotiation are parliamentary reform, policy reform, more staff and resources and ministerial or presiding officer positions for...

The paper identifies 11 major reforms that would improve parliamentary debate, government accountability and openness, and the operation of integrity institutions. Three of the reforms would improve the deliberations of the 48th Parliament of Australia and make other reforms more achievable.

Proposed changes to Australian electoral law would make elections less fair and substantially more expensive, according to this analysis of the Electoral Reform Bill. This paper finds that the Bill, which includes measures such as capping political spending and increasing transparency around donations, would disproportionately benefit established parties.

An extensive review of 20 of Australia’s largest and most influential trade associations finds that company memberships in these associations may not be to the benefit of shareholders, represent a potential democratic risk and most trade associations play little apparent role in self-regulation. The report recommends greater transparency on how these organisations spend members’ money...

The proposed increase in public funding and restrictions on donations for South Australian elections would unfairly favour major parties and incumbents at the expense of competitive elections. A democracy voucher model of public funding would better meet the stated objectives behind the change, while also providing for fairer elections and empowering South Australian voters.