Can You Help?

This website is in imminent danger of being shut down. It has been online since 1995, but the personal circumstances of the owner, Malcolm Farnsworth, are such that economies have to be made. Server costs and suchlike have become prohibitive. At the urging of people online, I have agreed to see if Patreon provides a solution. More information is available at the Patreon website. If you are able to contribute even $1.00/month to keep the site running, please click the Patreon button below.


Become a Patron!


Whitlam-Fraser Call For Strengthening Of Ministerial Accountability

Nov 12, 2007

Two former Australian prime ministers, Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Fraser, have called for the modernisation of the principle of ministerial accountability.

In a letter published in the Herald-Sun, Fraser and Whitlam say that "no matter how grave their failings may be, ministers no longer resign".

Whitlam was prime minister from 1972-75 and Fraser from 1975-83. Both men experienced a number of spectacular resignations and sackings from their ministries.

They have called for a comprehensive review of ministerial accountability, arguing that "this principle is the bedrock of responsible government". [Read more…]

Filed Under: Democracy, Executive Conventions, Howard, Ministers, Parliamentary Reform Tagged With: , , , ,

Making The Bastards Honest: Democrats’ Accountability Package

Aug 01, 2000

This is the Australian Democrats’ Accountability package.

The documents includes policies on political parties; the public service and Freedom of Information laws; government appointments; ministerial code of conduct; politicians’ entitlements, including superannuation; and corporate accountability.

The document was released by the party’s leader, Senator Meg Lees. [Read more…]

Filed Under: Appointments, Australian Democrats, Electoral Reform, Governance, How-To-Vote Cards, Ministers, Perquisites, Political Reform Tagged With: , , , ,