Higher peak fares and shorter peak periods: Productivity Commission wants ‘rethink’ of public transport Australian Capital Territory A new Productivity Commission report cautions states and territories against offering free public transport or big fare reductions.
Victoria’s deficit to blow out by almost $8 billion Monday December 13, 2021 By Jackson Graham News Victoria is due to record a $19.5 billion operating deficit this financial year – $7.9 billion more than it forecast in the 2021-22 budget. …
Premium The Select Committee The year that was and the year ahead – The Select Committee (part 1) Monday December 13, 2021 By Chris Johnson Federal What was achieved in 2021 and what was lacking on the public service front and/or in politics; what should be priorities for 2022?…
IBAC complaints rising as commission sharpens focus Friday December 10, 2021 By Jackson Graham News Last financial year, the agency received 4965 allegations stemming from about 2800 complaints – a 17% rise on the previous year. …
More lived experience, careful use of compulsory treatment wanted in mental health act Thursday December 9, 2021 By Jackson Graham Health Submissions for Victoria's new mental health legislation highlight the need for lived mental health experience in governance.
Victorian watchdog finds border permit system was ‘inhumane’ Wednesday December 8, 2021 By Jackson Graham News Victoria’s border permit system was 'unjust, even inhumane', according to the state’s watchdog, who received hundreds of complaints.
Victoria’s spending on consultancies on rising trend Tuesday December 7, 2021 By Jackson Graham News The Victorian government’s spending on consultancies has soared by $49 million in just one financial year, annual report data shows.
Premium Columnists Third time’s the charm as Victoria’s Pandemic Management Bill passes Monday December 6, 2021 By Binoy Kampmark Editors' Picks The third iteration of Victoria's Pandemic Management Bill has general support of relevant NGOs and the ombud, but some wariness remains.
Victorian government secures crossbencher to help pass amended pandemic legislation Tuesday November 30, 2021 By Jackson Graham Health The proposed laws shift central powers away from the public service, and have the support of chief health officer Brett Sutton.
Premium Columnists An abject lesson in how not to negotiate a vital piece of legislation Wednesday November 24, 2021 By Binoy Kampmark Editors' Picks The Andrews government believes emergency powers should be broad, easy to evoke and within reach. Not many others agree.
Workers to move manageable distances from CBD, state’s infrastructure body says Tuesday November 23, 2021 By Jackson Graham News Infrastructure Victoria modelling shows if one-third of workers are working from home two to three days a week by 2036, Victoria’s population will further spread…
Premium Interviews Creating the right conditions for government to climb into the sandbox Monday November 22, 2021 By Melissa Coade Economy & Industry CivVic, one of LaunchVic's newest programs, will create more opportunities for start-ups to collaborate with the Victorian government.
Premium Insights and analysis Organised extremists whip up political hatred in mum and dad Monday November 22, 2021 By Tom Ravlic Editors' Picks Anybody who thinks the conversations held online in internet hidey holes would not emerge publicly is greatly mistaken.
Oversight committee recommends state’s watchdog improve workplace culture Friday November 19, 2021 By Jackson Graham News A report into Victoria’s integrity agencies recommends IBAC review the state's OHS strategies and that the Victorian ombud prioritise vulnerable communities. …
Public health services get new youth mental health facilities Wednesday November 17, 2021 By Jackson Graham News Victoria’s capacity to provide round-the-clock care for young people needing mental health support will double, with five new regional facilities. …